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

Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, JULY 24, 2018 No. 124 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was benefits of the monument designation, Congress will do its job. Mr. Speaker, called to order by the Speaker pro tem- benefits for Native Americans, for until we get fair districts, we will have pore (Mr. PALAZZO). wildlife, for the local economy, and for to rely on renewed, energized voter en- f the environment. gagement to elect a Congress that will The only way we found out about this do its job. DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO manipulation is because they inadvert- The good news is that the evidence TEMPORE ently disclosed the entire memo- all across America is that people are The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- randum, exposed for everybody to see responding to a new generation of po- fore the House the following commu- how they blatantly manipulated the litical leadership. They are getting in- nication from the Speaker: process. But this is just another exam- volved in unprecedented numbers— WASHINGTON, DC, ple. more voters, more activism. They are July 24, 2018. This last week, we have seen attacks going to elect, as leaders, new Members I hereby appoint the Honorable STEVEN M. on our long-time friends and allies in who will provide the accountability to PALAZZO to act as Speaker pro tempore on Europe, undermining the NATO alli- hold in check this reckless administra- this day. ance, questioning the integrity of our tion. PAUL D. RYAN, American intelligence service, and as- It is too bad it looks like we will Speaker of the House of Representatives. saulting American business and con- have to wait for the election for the f sumers with this ill-advised trade war next Congress to do its job. MORNING-HOUR DEBATE and the tariffs, which are just taxes on f American families. This is, in part, due The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- to the fact that we are not getting any HOUSE COMMITTEE ON EDU- ant to the order of the House of Janu- pushback on these outrages from most CATION AND THE WORKFORCE ary 8, 2018, the Chair will now recog- Republicans in Congress, not standing TO HOST INNOVATION FORUM nize Members from lists submitted by up to Trump for America and for our AND SHOWCASE the majority and minority leaders for values. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The morning-hour debate. It appears that most of my Repub- Chair recognizes the gentleman from The Chair will alternate recognition lican friends are held hostage to the Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 between the parties. All time shall be most extreme elements in their dis- minutes. equally allocated between the parties, tricts. They are given enhanced influ- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. and in no event shall debate continue ence because of the practice of partisan Mr. Speaker, tomorrow the House Edu- beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other gerrymandering, drawing boundaries to cation and the Workforce Committee than the majority and minority leaders enhance the power of the Republican will host innovators from across the and the minority whip, shall be limited majority, so you only have to worry country for the bipartisan Innovation to 5 minutes. about voters in the primary. Forum and Showcase. The Innovation f I have long supported independent Forum will begin at 10 a.m. in room commissions to draw these boundaries, 2175 of the Rayburn House Office Build- NEW LEADERSHIP IS NEEDED IN have proposed legislation federally. Al- ing. Five panels of innovators will CONGRESS though there appears to be little appe- speak and answer questions from com- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tite in Congress, luckily, people out in mittee members about their work. Chair recognizes the gentleman from the States are taking matters into From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., members of the Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 min- their own hands. We are watching cit- public are invited to tour the Innova- utes. izen initiatives in Michigan, in Utah, tion Showcase in the Rayburn foyer, Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, it and in Colorado. Voters, this year, will where the innovators will be available seems every morning we are greeted by have a chance to vote on fair and hon- to share information about their work. another outrage from the Trump ad- est redistricting if the U.S. Chamber As a senior member of the com- ministration. Today, we find that the and the Republican Party are not able mittee, I am so proud of the bipartisan Department of the Interior deliberately to block it from being voted on, as they Innovation Forum and Showcase. This manipulated the information sur- are trying to do in Michigan. event will certainly highlight hard- rounding the decision to amend the When voters, again, pick the politi- working American innovators from all boundaries of national monuments. cians instead of politicians picking the walks of life. Tomorrow, there will be They withheld information about the voters, it is much more likely that 24 innovators who have traveled to

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 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.000 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7090 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Washington to discuss how they run ca- Career and Technical Education for the We, as leaders of the free world and reer and technical education and work- 21st Century Act. I look forward to guarantors of the international, rules- force development programs in their ironing out just a few minor dif- based order, have a duty to stand by communities. ferences, some good refinements that these sovereign states. In some cases, I am incredibly honored to have Joe the Senate made, and we will see about Mr. Speaker, we have signed pledges to Luther, from the Central Pennsylvania getting that to the President’s desk, do so. Institute of Science and Technology lo- quite frankly, providing greater access Their struggle for freedom is not cated in Pleasant Gap, Centre County, to more effective, skills-based edu- some distant battle that does not con- Pennsylvania, be there. Mr. Luther is cation for all Americans seeking the cern our well-being. Their fight for the horticulture and landscaping in- American Dream of opportunity. self-determination is a battle for the global order and the survival of democ- structor at CPI. He is well loved by his f students and has received numerous ac- racy in the face of foreign tyranny, colades for his performance in the WORKFORCE CHALLENGES ON specifically Putin’s tyranny. classroom. GUAM Nations and the people they rep- In 2014, Mr. Luther was named the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The resent have the sole right to determine ACTE New Career and Technical Edu- Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from their own fates. Foreign bullies like cation Teacher of the Year for Pennsyl- Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) for 5 minutes. Putin should not threaten or dictate vania. In December, he was awarded Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise their way of life or the futures of those the National Career and Technical today to introduce the Guam Tem- children. If we allow Russia to so blatantly Education Teacher of the Year from porary Workforce Act. A near 100 per- break international law, particularly NOCTI, which is presented annually to cent denial of temporary H–2B peti- the fundamentals of sovereignty and tions on Guam has hindered our is- recognize career and technical edu- territorial integrity, where will it end? land’s ability to grow the economy and cation teachers for their outstanding When will the Russian bear march in service. provide affordable and timely services the streets of some other friend, a I visited Mr. Luther in his classroom for our civilian population. NATO ally, perhaps? at CPI and out in the community, While our community fully supports We must recognize their courage in where his students routinely work on providing job opportunities and career the face of such a daunting challenge projects or participate in competitions. advancement for those already living and send a message to the Kremlin In January, Mr. Luther’s landscaping on Guam, we do not have the popu- that we stand with our Eastern Euro- students secured their fourth consecu- lation or the organic workforce to fill pean friends on their quest to be a free tive first place win at the Pennsylvania the labor demands of our island. Local nation and more integrated into the Farm Show as a part of the agricul- companies have tried to recruit from West. That is why I have introduced H. tural education landscape exhibits. other territories and mainland United Res. 955, to affirm U.S. support to the Mr. Speaker, the Pennsylvania Farm States, all to no avail. nations of Ukraine, Georgia, and Show is the Nation’s largest indoor ag- I am pleased that we made some Moldova in their effort to retain polit- riculture event, and the CPI students progress in alleviating these workforce ical sovereignty and territorial integ- beat a total of seven other schools to challenges in the defense bill that we rity. take the top prize for their exhibit. I are considering this week, but, Mr. I am joined in sponsoring this impor- know these students are talented, and Speaker, we need to do more. The tant bipartisan resolution by Georgia it is their teacher, Mr. Luther, who Guam Temporary Workforce Act would Caucus co-chair, Representative CON- truly inspires them to reach great make sure that local labor needs are NOLLY from Virginia; as well as the co- heights. Through his hands-on instruc- met by giving the Governor of Guam chairs of the Moldova Caucus, Rep- tion, Mr. Luther affords students in his more input in temporary labor need de- resentative OLSON from Texas and Rep- classroom the ability to design, build, terminations. Specifically, it would resentative PRICE from North Carolina; and maintain their landscaping allow him to certify the temporary and the co-chairs of the congressional projects. He lets them interact with needs of Guam’s civilian labor market Ukrainian Caucus, Representatives customers and discuss real trans- while safeguarding the local economy KAPTUR of Ohio, HARRIS of Maryland, actions. He brings real-life scenarios from overreliance on temporary work- FITZPATRICK of Pennsylvania, and into the classroom at every oppor- ers. LEVIN of Michigan. tunity to show students what their fu- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Our resolution reaffirms the commit- tures can be like in the workforce. pass this very, very important measure ment of the United States to support I look forward to having Mr. Luther and to support our island economy. the democratically elected govern- ments of these three nations. It con- here in Washington for tomorrow’s In- f novation Forum and Showcase. I know demns Russia’s violation of the Buda- that, because of dedicated teachers like TRILATERAL ALLIANCE OF GEOR- pest Memorandum, a commitment it him, scores of students will be set on a GIA, UKRAINE, AND MOLDOVA made in 1994 to ensure the independ- path to success in life through career The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ence and territorial integrity of and technical education programs. Chair recognizes the gentleman from Ukraine. Putin has lied. He lied in his commit- Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to all the Texas (Mr. POE) for 5 minutes. innovators who will participate tomor- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, our ment. Our legislation calls for the im- row to share with Congress and the friends in Moldova, Ukraine, and Geor- mediate and complete withdrawal of all Russian military and security per- public how they are addressing the Na- gia are facing major threats to their sonnel and equipment from the nations tion’s education and workforce devel- sovereignty from the Russian bear. of Georgia, Ukraine, and Moldova. It opment challenges. As co-chair of the These young democracies are striving calls for Moscow to end its desta- bipartisan House Career and Technical to build peaceful, civil societies and ef- bilizing activities in all regions of fective governing institutions after Education Caucus and a consistent ad- these three countries. It commends the vocate for high-quality career and decades of Soviet tyranny. Yet Vladi- ongoing trilateral cooperation between technical education, I know these pro- mir Putin, the Napoleon of Siberia, re- the Governments of Ukraine, Georgia, grams not only shape the future of our fuses to accept their independence and and Moldova to confront Russia’s de- Nation’s youth, but will be the founda- sovereign rights as free nations. stabilizing activity, and it voices our tion for a new era of economic growth For years, Russian troops have occu- support for U.S. assistance to these in the United States. And the future pied each of these nations and incited three nations, assistance that looks bright. violence within the borders. Moscow strengthens their capacity to resist Mr. Speaker, on a related note, I was has used corruption and coercion to un- Russia’s aggression. thankful to the Senate last evening, dermine the rule of law in democratic which passed my legislation which al- institutions of each of these nations. b 1015 ready passed out of this body almost a Putin continues to use cyber warfare The resolution calls on all free na- year ago, H.R. 2353, the Strengthening against each of these nations. tions of Europe, the United Nations,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.003 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7091 and international partners to continue Act altogether. Their arguments are Church, he was a member of the choir; to apply pressure on the totalitarian clearly baseless. But if Republicans he was a deacon; he was a trustee; and state of Russia to uphold its obliga- succeed, millions of Americans like he was chairman of his Sunday school tions, and it reaffirms U.S. support for Vanessa could quickly lose their cov- class. these three nations integrating into erage. In 1989, David entered the political the European Union. Of course, that is not all the Trump arena, where he was elected to the This implies that Georgia, Ukraine, administration is doing to undermine Blacksburg City Council, where he was and Moldova must also meet their obli- the Affordable Care Act. President appointed mayor pro tempore. He was gations under EU association agree- Trump blocked cost-sharing reduction then appointed mayor by then-Gov- ments to commit first and foremost to payments to insurers, sending shock ernor Carroll Campbell after his prede- meaningful progress on economic re- waves of uncertainty through insur- cessor was removed from office, and he forms, strengthening democratic insti- ance markets across the Nation and won a special election for mayor in tutions, combating corruption, build- raising costs for consumers in pre- June of 1990, where he has served hon- ing independent judicial systems, and miums. Trump also cut open-enroll- orably for the last 28 years. holding to the rule of law. ment periods and slashed funding to Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recog- This resolution marks our shared help Americans sign up for insurance. nize, in the 115th session of Congress, a commitment to democracy in these Trump and the GOP don’t care about true American, David Alexander great countries to be united to stand the people they are hurting. His only Hogue. against Putin’s aggression. objective is to erase the legacy of his f Freedom-loving countries must stop predecessor. RESHAPE TRADE DEALS the Russian bear and Putin’s desire to Mr. Speaker, no issue crystalizes the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The be czar of a new Putinland. As John F. differences between our two political Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Kennedy said many years ago: ‘‘Let parties like this one. Democrats don’t Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) for 5 minutes. every nation know, whether it wishes think your insurance company should Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, on the us well or ill, that we shall pay any be allowed to drop you because you get important economic challenge of re- price, bear any burden, meet any hard- sick. Democrats don’t believe you negotiating NAFTA, once again, the ship, support any friend, oppose any foe should go bankrupt and lose your home Trump administration is leading us to assure the survival and success of simply because you get in an accident. down a chaotic and unstable path. Our liberty.’’ Democrats are committed to the belief Nation must fix bad trade deals to cre- And that is just the way it is. that healthcare is a right, not a privi- ate good jobs and stop the wage race to f lege, for every single American. the bottom. On the other hand, Republicans want UNDERMINING INSURANCE IN THE President Trump is taking a ‘‘shoot to turn back the clock to a time when MARKETPLACE first, ask questions later’’ approach. It a minor diagnosis could lead to the loss reminds me of his recent backward The SPEAKER pro tempore. The of coverage, when young people were walk of words diminishing our NATO Chair recognizes the gentleman from kicked off their parents’ plan as soon allies and his brash capitulating per- Arizona (Mr. GALLEGO) for 5 minutes. as they turned 18, when simply being a formance in Helsinki. Mr. GALLEGO. Mr. Speaker, I want woman somehow qualified as a pre- Closer to home, our continent has a to speak about a brave young woman, existing condition. That is not right. once-in-a-generation opportunity to re- an Arizonan named Vanessa Ramirez. Mr. Speaker, Republicans couldn’t shape our trade deals that have re- When she was just 23 years old, repeal the Affordable Care Act in Con- sulted in lowered wages for the Amer- Vanessa received a devastating diag- gress. Now they are just trying to sabo- ican people. Starting with NAFTA, we nosis. Doctors told her that she had tage it from the White House, and mil- must re-create agreements that raise ovarian cancer, yet Vanessa refused to lions of Americans, like Vanessa Rami- wages and lift up workers in our Na- put her dreams on hold. She somehow rez, could lose access to lifesaving care tion and across the world. managed to fit in chemotherapy ses- as a result. We can’t allow that to hap- Current trade deals exact huge prof- sions between her classes at Arizona pen. its for transnational companies that State. f outsource jobs but continue the race to Eventually, Vanessa pulled through. the bottom on wages for workers. So HONORING DAVID ALEXANDER She beat cancer, and, today, she has far, Trump’s unsteady actions on trade HOGUE two happy, healthy kids. just create more chaos, with businesses Vanessa has overcome a lot in her The SPEAKER pro tempore. The putting hiring plans on hold or scaling young life, but thanks to the Afford- Chair recognizes the gentleman from back whole projects because of their able Care Act, there is one challenge South Carolina (Mr. NORMAN) for 5 confusion about tariffs. Is his trade she won’t be forced to endure: going minutes. rhetoric producing a good outcome for without health insurance. Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my the American people or is it just con- Despite her preexisting condition, honor and privilege to recognize a true tinuing the red ink of worse trade defi- Vanessa was able to purchase an af- American, David Alexander Hogue. cits, suppressed wages, and rising costs fordable plan through the ObamaCare David is the son of Grady and Dovie for consumers? marketplace. Her children are also cov- Hogue, born in 1946 in Blacksburg, According to the PayScale Index, the ered under KidsCare, our State’s Chil- South Carolina. He attended paychecks of working Americans have dren’s Health Insurance Program. How- Blacksburg public schools and was fallen 1.4 percent just since 2017 when ever, if Donald Trump gets his way, elected president of his high school you adjust for the rising costs of essen- Vanessa’s story soon could take a sad senior class. tials like healthcare, prescription turn. He then enrolled at the University of drugs, gas, and groceries. In fact, wages Having abolished the individual man- South Carolina School of Pharmacy, have fallen, actually, 9.3 percent since date, Republican State attorneys gen- where he graduated in 1970. After work- 2006, as costs go up and up and up but eral, backed by President Trump, are ing in a drugstore in York, South Caro- wages stay flat or go down for so many now arguing in court that rules prohib- lina, and Cherokee drug store in families. iting insurers from charging higher Gaffney, South Carolina, he returned This is not what the American people rates on the basis of a preexisting con- to Blacksburg, where he became the were promised. They were promised dition or even denying coverage com- owner of Iron City Pharmacy, which bigger paychecks, more reshoring of pletely should be ruled unconstitu- was a 75-year-old business. jobs—remember Carrier in Indiana— tional. Among his many accomplishments, better trade deals, and a President who The mandate is so central to he formed the Iron City Band where he was on their side. So far, we have just ObamaCare, Republicans claim that, played piano and toured the entire unfulfilled promises and confusion. without it, the courts should simply Southeast with his band. As a member NAFTA negotiations press on, but throw out the whole Affordable Care of the Blacksburg First Baptist there is concern President Trump will

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.011 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7092 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 go the way of his recent NATO meet- causes, champions for Israel, and Beans Coffee Company on their rec- ing. Reports from his trade ambassador champions for our south Florida com- ognition as Business of the Month. seem encouraging, but will this admin- munity. RECOGNIZING BENT METAL CUSTOMS istration follow through on its prom- Mr. Speaker, I am so proud of the Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I ises to turn NAFTA into a job- work accomplished by Paul and by Mo, rise today to recognize a small business insourcing deal? If his promise to fix and I congratulate them on this much- in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, healthcare or promises that the GOP deserved recognition by Boys Town Je- that was recently recognized as Busi- tax giveaway to the top 1 percent rusalem. ness of the Month by the Lansdale Bor- would raise wages is any indication, Mazel tov, amigos. ough Council. then count me as a sceptic. f Bent Metal Customs, located on West Since NAFTA’s passage in 1993, there RECOGNIZING THOIS KIEL AND Third Street in Lansdale, was founded has not been a single year in which our MARGARET YAEGER in 2002 in Hatfield before moving to its Nation has achieved a trade balance current, larger location. A classic car The SPEAKER pro tempore. The with Mexico or Canada. These massive restoration shop, Bent Metal Customs Chair recognizes the gentleman from billion-dollar trade deficits power the specializes in vehicle customization Pennsylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK) for 5 harmful push of living-wage jobs be- and restoration. yond our borders and reduction in our minutes. wages. This low wage race to the bot- Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I b 1030 tom pits our workers against those rise today to recognize two exceptional Bent Metal Customs has influenced making poverty-level wages in other members of our community in Bucks the motor vehicle industry in Mont- nations. County, Pennsylvania, who are work- gomery County and beyond. Publica- Talk is cheap, Mr. President. In Ohio, ing to make life better for homeless tions, such as Street Trucks, Chevy people judge people by their actions. youth throughout our community. High Performance, and Diesel World, Words aren’t enough to help working Thois Kiel and Margaret Yaeger, resi- have all featured the work of Bent families. Our workers and the middle dents of Neshaminy Manor Nursing Metal Customs. The quality work of its class that powers this country should Home, both decided to create a commu- employees has drawn customers from not be the victim of an ill-thought-out nity outreach project in order to give as far as Michigan and Florida, and is trade war or attacks on our allies. back to those in need. Working to- even showcased yearly at an auto show President Trump, listen to the people gether, they knit a large red and black in Las Vegas, Nevada. in places like Ohio, in both the indus- afghan one square at a time before con- I would like to recognize Bent Metal trial and agricultural sectors. Listen to necting them and presenting it to Rob- Customs’ owner, Justin Brenner, for the voters who took a chance on you ert ‘‘Woody’’ Wood of the Synergy this distinction, and thank him and the because of trade. More trade chaos is Project of Bucks County, an organiza- entire Bent Metal Customs family for not the path we were promised. tion that seeks to assist and counsel their contributions to our local econ- Renegotiate a NAFTA that will re- homeless youth and young adults. omy and community. Mr. Speaker, we commend Thois and sult in trade balances, insourcing of f jobs to this country with higher paying Margaret for their compassion for our jobs in our country and rising wages community’s most vulnerable members PRESIDENT TRUMP MUST STEP for our workers, and with continental and for their work to improve lives DOWN efforts to gain stability working with with such a personal touch. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The our trade partners in both Canada and I would also like to thank Neshaminy Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Mexico. That is what a renegotiated Manor’s assistant director of activities, New Hampshire (Ms. SHEA-PORTER) for NAFTA should look like. Let’s hope we Heather O’Donnell, for all of her work 5 minutes. get it. in facilitating outreach projects, and Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I f Woody Wood for his work in bettering would like to read an op-ed from the lives of homeless youth in our com- former EPA Administrator Christine RECOGNIZING PAUL KRUSS AND munity. HUSSAIN MOHAMMED Todd Whitman, who worked for Rich- RECOGNIZING BACKYARD BEANS COFFEE ard Nixon and George Bush: The SPEAKER pro tempore. The COMPANY President Trump’s disgraceful performance Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I in Helsinki, Finland, and, in the days since, Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) for 5 min- rise today to recognize a small business is an indication that he is not fit to remain utes. in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, in office. Trump’s 2016 ‘‘America First’’ plat- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, that was recently recognized as Busi- form might be more aptly named ‘‘Russia today I rise to congratulate Paul Kruss ness of the Month by the Lansdale Bor- First’’ after the disaster that occurred last and Hussain Mohammed on their re- ough Council. week. cent recognition by Boys Town Jeru- Backyard Beans Coffee Company Trump’s turn toward Russia is indefen- salem. started in the backyard of co-owners sible. I am a lifelong Republican. I have cam- paigned and won as a member of the party, Paul and Mo are the proprietors of Matt and Laura Adams with only a and I have served more than one Republican Mo’s Bagels and Deli located in beau- Weber grill and one goal in mind: to President. My Republican colleagues—once tiful south Florida. Although some create high-quality, dynamic coffee rightfully critical of President Obama’s en- may know these two for serving up and coffee products. gagement strategy with Russia leader Vladi- some of the best bagels and lox in Located on West Main Street in mir Putin—have to end their willful igno- Aventura, many know them for their Lansdale, Backyard Beans Coffee takes rance of the damage Trump is doing, both world-class philanthropy and commu- community responsibility personally domestically and internationally. We must nity involvement. and works diligently to ensure it is put aside the GOP label, as hard as that may Most recently, Paul and Mo have be, and demonstrate the leadership our coun- using products that are not only try needs by calling on the President to step joined forces to support Boys Town Je- sourced responsibly and ethically but down. rusalem, a phenomenal academic insti- that also promote sustainability. Trump’s sycophantic relationship with tution transforming the lives of dis- To date, Backyard Beans’ popular Putin is unsurprising given his previous advantaged boys into productive mem- roasts, which source beans from Cen- comments about Russia and its dictator. bers of Israeli society. tral America, Africa, South America, What is shocking is how long he has pos- Whether it be involvement in local and Asia, are sold in nearly 100 res- sessed, and disregarded, hard evidence of causes at home or ensuring success for taurants and retail locations, along Putin’s direct role in undermining our elec- the next generations abroad, Paul and with regional farmers’ markets. tions. According to New York Times report- ing, he saw dispositive emails and texts early Mo’s dedication and commitment to I applaud Matt and Laura for con- in January 2017. helping those who need it the most is tributing to an already thriving com- Trump’s repeated public dismissals of the unwavering. Paul Kruss and Hussain munity of businesses in Montgomery intelligence coming from his own deputies is Mohammed are champions of noble County, and we congratulate Backyard deeply disturbing. Along with his walk back

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.005 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7093 of statements last week, and then walking Those Members of the party in Congress lic for which it stands, one nation under God, back the walk backs, it’s impossible to keep who have stood up to the President should be indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. up, and his behavior warrants a fresh evalua- commended. More must follow, with more f tion of whether the President can be trusted than private talk and tepid tweets. Only bold with the future of the United States. leadership can put the United States back on WELCOMING IMAM SEYED ALI His apologists will argue that the current a path that values freedom and democracy, GHAZVINI outcry is just another attempt by moderates and truly puts America first. The SPEAKER. Without objection, and ‘‘establishment’’ Republicans to dis- f credit the President. But what does this man the gentleman from California (Mr. have to say or do for his supporters to finally RECESS COSTA) is recognized for 1 minute. see that his actions are detrimental to the There was no objection. country? The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today We must put aside the GOP label, as hard ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair and it is my honor and privilege to wel- as that may be, and demonstrate the leader- declares the House in recess until noon come Imam Ghazvini as the guest ship our country needs. today. chaplain to the United States House of Trump’s avowed respect for the word of a Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 35 Representatives. dictator who has spent decades undermining minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- For the past 14 years, Seyed Ali the U.S. and its allies is utterly dangerous. cess. Putin is not our ally. Despite the President’s Ghazvini has served as imam, or spir- dismal attempt to change the narrative by f itual leader, of the Islamic Cultural Center in Fresno, a very important Is- explaining that he misspoke in Helsinki, the b 1200 pattern is clear: As a candidate and as Presi- lamic center in the San Joaquin Val- dent, he has constantly praised Putin just as AFTER RECESS ley. he has constantly undercut the core of our The recess having expired, the House In addition to leading prayers and democracy: the courts, the media, and the Qur’anic study, the Imam Ghazvini has FBI. He has a history of discrediting mem- was called to order by the Speaker at noon. distinguished himself as a prominent, bers of his own Cabinet and the agencies prominent community leader. Since they lead. These are not the actions of some- f one who should be navigating delicate diplo- the beginning of his ministry, the matic discussions and setting foreign policy. PRAYER imam has worked intently to facilitate If the President did genuinely misspeak on Imam Seyed Ali Ghazvini, Islamic meaningful interfaith dialogue and un- Monday, it demonstrates his inability to ar- Cultural Center of Fresno, Fresno, derstanding throughout the valley, ticulate accurately U.S. foreign policy at the California, offered the following pray- among all religions. highest level, for the highest stakes. As the As the co-chair of the Interfaith Alli- leader of the free world—as ridiculous as er: Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim, in the ance of Central California, he has that title sounds when applied to Trump—his brought together numerous religious words matter. If he cannot take his place at name of God, the compassionate, the a podium next to an adversarial foreign lead- merciful, Almighty God, I thank You and social justice organizations to host er and stand up for America’s interests and for having led me to this great Nation, mixed-faith events and spread toler- principles, he should not be President. whose history of welcoming immi- ance and inclusivity throughout the Trump has alienated our true allies in Eu- grants makes it possible for me to give San Joaquin Valley. I know because I rope and undermined the United States’ rep- have had the wonderful pleasure and utation as a consistent, reliable moral force today’s prayer. I thank You for inspir- ing our Founding Fathers and the gov- honor to participate. for good in the world. He disdains democ- It has been with great honor, again, ernments that followed to acknowledge racies and admires dictatorships. What ap- that many of us who have been able to pears to matter to him is not what leaders civil liberties and minority rights. participate in these interdenomina- represent but how they flatter him. North I ask You, God, to bless the Members tional meetings have witnessed a re- Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Putin have of this Hall, and I pray that You con- newed commitment to social justice cracked that code and fan Trump’s ego in a tinue to inspire our elected officials so way that respected heads of state do not. firsthand. I urge my colleagues to wel- that their decisions meet Your ap- Yet many Republicans continue to defend come me in joining him and in thank- proval. I pray that You inspire them to him. In this election year, opposing Trump is ing him this morning for his opening continue to uphold the democratic val- risky for GOP candidates. Invoking the need prayer. to choose country over party is an overused ues of fairness and compassion that trope. But it is essential now. have made our Nation great, so that no f The Republican majority in Congress can one seeking refuge from war is banned ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER fully implement promised sanctions against from stepping on our soil based on PRO TEMPORE Russia to show its opposition to Russia’s meddling in our election. Putin needs eco- faith affiliation or race, so that des- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. nomic growth in Russia because it benefits perate families seeking refuge are not NORMAN). The Chair will entertain up the oligarchy. Tougher, tangible sanctions separated. to 15 further requests for 1-minute would weaken him and hurt those who ben- God, empower our lawmakers to pro- speeches on each side of the aisle. efit from his power. House Speaker PAUL mote peace, starting in our own cities f RYAN indicated earlier this week that addi- and emanating to the rest of the world. tional sanctions were on the table. This Amen. PLANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE would be a start. f AWARDED 2018 CHAMBER OF THE Congress can also ensure that the Robert YEAR S. Mueller, III, investigation is not com- THE JOURNAL promised. Any interference in it after this (Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas asked week should raise many red flags. The spe- The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- and was given permission to address cial counsel and his team, who, despite the ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- the House for 1 minute and to revise President’s attacks, show every sign of unbi- ceedings and announces to the House and extend his remarks.) ased professionalism, need to finish their his approval thereof. Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. work without tampering. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- Speaker, I am proud to say that the Finally, even if the Russian efforts to un- dermine State voting systems were unsuc- nal stands approved. cities of north Texas are frequently cessful in 2016, this is a vulnerability that f named some of the best places to live may be exploited in the future. With the help in the whole country. Of course, this is PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE of Congress, States must strengthen their no surprise to the folks who live there. processes and security to stop future med- The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman There are many reasons that north dling from Russia or other foreign actors. from Illinois (Mr. SCHNEIDER) come for- Texas continues to draw people and Republican voters, including those who ward and lead the House in the Pledge businesses to the area. These reasons supported Donald Trump, have the obliga- of Allegiance. include good schools and low taxes, but tion to demand action from their elected of- ficials. Vocal opposition is expected from Mr. SCHNEIDER led the Pledge of people are also attracted to our busi- Democrats, but it is Republicans’ dis- Allegiance as follows: ness-friendly environment. In fact, just approval that will have the most sway on I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the last week, the Plano Chamber of Com- Capitol Hill and at the White House. United States of America, and to the Repub- merce was nationally recognized as the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.007 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7094 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 2018 Chamber of the Year. Now, that In 1984, the U.S. Institute of Peace Congratulations to the Easton Air- has to be outstanding. was created by Congress as an inde- port on this tremendous anniversary, I want to congratulate Jamee Jolly, pendent, nonpartisan institute to pre- and cheers to another 75 years of serv- the president of the Plano Chamber, as vent, mitigate, and resolve violent ing Talbot County, the State of Mary- well as the entire Plano Chamber of international conflict. land, and the United States of Amer- Commerce team, for all your hard work Mr. Speaker, conflict management ica. to make our business community such and resolution skills are essential in f a thriving success. today’s volatile international security ELECTION SECURITY LETTER God bless you, and I salute you. environment, and I am grateful for the (Mr. SCHNEIDER asked and was f Institute’s work. f given permission to address the House PALESTINIAN CHILDREN for 1 minute and to revise and extend HOLD SUDAN ACCOUNTABLE FOR (Ms. MCCOLLUM asked and was his remarks.) THE MURDER OF JOHN GRAN- given permission to address the House Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, ear- VILLE for 1 minute and to revise and extend lier this month, Special Counsel Robert her remarks.) (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and Mueller indicted 12 Russian intel- Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, over was given permission to address the ligence operatives for their activities the past decade, Congress has provided House for 1 minute.) hacking Democratic email and com- Israel with more than $30 billion in se- Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. puter networks during the 2016 elec- curity assistance. Israel’s security is Speaker, I have proudly stood before tion. important, but according to UNICEF, this House on many occasions to honor In Illinois, our State Board of Elec- Israel is the only country in the world the life and legacy of south Buffalo na- tions was also targeted and its voter that systematically uses its military tive John Granville. John was a young registration database breached. Data to arrest, interrogate, and imprison diplomat with the United States Agen- on tens of thousands of Illinois voters children—Palestinian children—some cy for International Development and, was taken. This breach and the taking as young as 12 years old. Countless tragically, was murdered by Islamic of voter data is an unacceptable, mali- cases of mistreatment, solitary con- extremists in Khartoum, Sudan, in cious attack on our Nation and its peo- finement, and forced confessions have 2008. ple. At the time of his death, John was We must not only hold the attackers been documented by Amnesty Inter- working with the people of South accountable; we need to ensure that at- national, Human Rights Watch, and Sudan to prepare them for elections tacks on our next election are defended our own State Department. and their eventual independence as the against. Personally, I have met with We must ensure that no U.S. tax dol- newest country in the world in 2011. county clerks for the district I rep- lars are supporting the mistreatment A decade after John’s death, the resent, and I know they are taking ac- and abuse of Palestinian children. I Granville family is still fighting the tion, treating this threat seriously. urge my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. international justice system to hold We need to ensure that our Federal 4391, a bill to prohibit U.S. funds from the Government of Sudan accountable Government is responding with the supporting Israel’s violent military de- for his death. same level of urgency. That is why, tention and abuse of Palestinian chil- The Trump administration’s Depart- today, I led my Illinois colleagues in a dren. ment of State is now considering re- letter requesting a briefing from the This abuse must stop. Peace in the moving Sudan from the list of state- Department of Justice on their elec- Middle East can be achieved only by sponsored terrorists. If the State De- tion security efforts in our State. ensuring Israel’s security, respecting partment allows for that removal, Su- Protecting the integrity of our elec- human rights, and promoting equality dan’s responsibility for John’s death tion is fundamental to our democracy. and justice for all Palestinians. and the escape of his convicted mur- I urge the Department of Justice to f derers must be a condition for the work with Illinois to secure our elec- U.S. INSTITUTE OF PEACE PLAYS State Department’s action in this mat- tion infrastructure and prepare for this CRITICAL ROLE IN CONFLICT ter. serious national threat. RESOLUTION f f (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF EASTON ABIY AHMED ALI REVIVES asked and was given permission to ad- AIRPORT ETHIOPIAN REFORMS dress the House for 1 minute and to re- (Mr. HARRIS asked and was given (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina vise and extend his remarks.) permission to address the House for 1 asked and was given permission to ad- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. minute and to revise and extend his re- dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Mr. Speaker, today at 12:30, the U.S. marks.) vise and extend his remarks.) Institute of Peace will offer an edu- Mr. HARRIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. cational briefing for Members and staff today to congratulate the Easton/ Speaker, Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. on the Institute’s role in reducing vio- Newnam Field Airport on its 75th anni- Abiy Ahmed Ali has made positive lent conflict abroad. As a strong sup- versary. Easton Airport on Maryland’s changes in the country since his April porter of the U.S. Institute of Peace, I Eastern Shore is a fixture in the Talbot inauguration. Prime Minister Ali has am pleased to welcome President County community and celebrates a released thousands of political pris- Nancy Lindborg to the Hill today. She rich and patriotic history. oners and ended a state of emergency. will explain the history and relevance Originally constructed by the mili- Critically, Dr. Abiy has stated that of the Institute’s congressional mission tary during World War II, the Easton Ethiopia will fully comply with the Al- and how it helps our country find non- Airport was used as one of the hun- giers Agreement, the peace agreement violent solutions to international con- dreds of bases for military planes pa- signed for the formal end of the war of flicts. trolling the East Coast for Nazi sub- 12 years between Ethiopia and Eritrea, President Lindborg will provide an marines. After the war, the Federal which, gruesomely, has killed more update on the Institute’s programs and Government sold the Easton Airport, than 100,000 people. how its training and educational func- and others like it, to the local jurisdic- Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership and tions are building long-term capacities tions in which they were located for initiative to personally visit with the for nonviolent conflict resolution that just $1. Eritrean leadership and offer direct help countries solve their own prob- Since the end of World War II, the airline routes has melted away a near- lems. She will be joined by colleagues, Easton Airport has grown to be one of ly 18-year cold war between the two who will provide policy updates and ex- the busiest general aviation facilities states. plain how the Institute’s efforts are in Maryland, serving local businesses, The United States will continue to having an impact in both Africa and the military, corporate pilots, and support Prime Minister Abiy’s diplo- the Middle East. aviation enthusiasts. matic outreach and reform, which will

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.013 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7095 also contribute to regional stability. counts and expand the use of HSAs to the bill, as amended, and on any further New hope and opportunity with free cover direct primary care and over-the- amendment thereto, to final passage without market reforms are now available to counter medicines. intervening motion except: (1) one hour of the people of Ethiopia. HSAs make it easier for people to debate equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the In conclusion, God bless our troops, take a proactive approach to their own Committee on Ways and Means; and (2) one and we will never forget September the healthcare. It is time to give Ameri- motion to recommit with or without instruc- 11th in the global war on terrorism. cans more access and more choice and tions. Welcome, Pastor John Hagee and affordability when spending their hard- SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it Christians United for Israel, to Wash- earned paychecks. shall be in order to consider in the House the ington, addressed last night by Ambas- Our legislation will also reduce pre- bill (H.R. 6311) to amend the Internal Rev- sador Nikki Haley. miums, roll back burdensome enue Code of 1986 and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to modify the defi- f ObamaCare regulations, and give nition of qualified health plan for purposes of Americans more options and control FLINT WATER CRISIS IS NOT the health insurance premium tax credit and when dealing with personal issues of to allow individuals purchasing health insur- OVER healthcare. ance in the individual market to purchase a (Mr. KILDEE asked and was given I look forward to casting my vote for lower premium copper plan. All points of permission to address the House for 1 all Missouri, especially those in Mis- order against consideration of the bill are minute.) souri’s Second Congressional District. waived. In lieu of the amendment in the na- Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise They deserve the freedom to do what is ture of a substitute recommended by the Committee on Ways and Means, an amend- today to thank my House colleagues best for their families. ment in the nature of a substitute consisting who visited my hometown of Flint, f of the text of Rules Committee Print 115-83 Michigan, last week to get an update RECOGNIZING PUBLIC SAFETY shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as on the city’s ongoing water crisis. I amended, shall be considered as read. All AIRCREWS want to specifically thank Leader points of order against provisions in the bill, NANCY PELOSI; Assistant Democratic (Mr. BILIRAKIS asked and was given as amended, are waived. The previous ques- Leader JIM CLYBURN; Representatives permission to address the House for 1 tion shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as amended, and on any further amend- BARBARA LEE, JIM MCGOVERN, DENNY minute and to revise and extend his re- ment thereto, to final passage without inter- HECK, DWIGHT EVANS, JARED HUFFMAN; marks.) Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, today I vening motion except: (1) one hour of debate and, of course, the members of the equally divided and controlled by the chair Michigan delegation, including SANDY rise to recognize a group of unsung he- and ranking minority member of the Com- LEVIN, BRENDA LAWRENCE, and DEBBIE roes who help keep our country and mittee on Ways and Means; and (2) one mo- DINGELL. I want to thank them all for communities safe. tion to recommit with or without instruc- visiting Flint. Public safety aircrews fly every day tions. I appreciate all my colleagues who across the Nation to ensure the safety The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- have come to Flint to visit with fami- of our domestic airspace, often in very tleman from Texas is recognized for 1 lies, and I am especially grateful that hazardous conditions. They also sup- hour. Congress passed much-needed help for port first responders during disaster re- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, for the this community as it struggles to over- sponse and rescue missions throughout purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- come this water crisis. the country. tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman Today, there is progress in Flint, We honor the commitment of those from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS), pending thanks to this body. Nearly 7,000 of public servants, both past and present, which I yield myself such time as I those dangerous lead pipes have been and recognize that some have made the may consume. During consideration of replaced so far using the Federal funds ultimate sacrifice. It is only fitting this resolution, all time yielded is for that we provided. that a day be set aside to honor the the purpose of debate only. The recovery does continue. The thousands of public servants, both past GENERAL LEAVE Flint water crisis has faded from the and present, who have served. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I ask national headlines, and this congres- To this end, I introduce H. Res. 991, unanimous consent that all Members sional delegation is a reminder that to recognize June 26 of each year as have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- the crisis isn’t over. That visit was an National Public Safety Aviation Day. tend their remarks. opportunity for us to hear directly f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gen- from families that there is still much PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION tleman from Texas? to be done. OF H.R. 184, PROTECT MEDICAL What happened in Flint is not some There was no objection. INNOVATION ACT OF 2017, AND Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, House anomaly. It is a warning to the rest of PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION the country and to this Congress that Resolution 1011 provides for the consid- OF H.R. 6311, INCREASING AC- eration of two bills aimed at removing we have to do more to rebuild Amer- CESS TO LOWER PREMIUM ica’s critical infrastructure. Otherwise, some of the most burdensome aspects PLANS AND EXPANDING HEALTH of the Affordable Care Act, and, as a re- we run the risk of more Flint, Michi- SAVINGS ACCOUNTS ACT OF 2018 gans to come. sult, moving toward lowering Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, by di- healthcare costs for the millions of f rection of the Committee on Rules, I Americans who are confronted daily b 1215 call up House Resolution 1011 and ask with rising premiums, rising for its immediate consideration. deductibles, and rising drug prices. GIVING AMERICANS MORE The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- With each bill, we take one step clos- CHOICES ON HEALTHCARE EX- lows: er to ultimately eliminating the Af- PENSE SAVINGS H. RES. 1011 fordable Care Act’s government-run ap- (Mrs. WAGNER asked and was given Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- proach to healthcare and return to a permission to address the House for 1 lution it shall be in order to consider in the market-driven solution that puts pa- minute and to revise and extend her re- House the bill (H.R. 184) to amend the Inter- tients first. marks.) nal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise The first bill in today’s rule, H.R. 184, Mrs. WAGNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise tax on medical devices. All points of order the Protect Medical Innovation Act of today in support of giving Americans against consideration of the bill are waived. 2017, would repeal the excise tax on more choices when deciding how to The amendment printed in the report of the medical devices imposed on American save for healthcare expenses. Committee on Rules accompanying this res- olution shall be considered as adopted. The companies by the previously mentioned The legislation we are voting on this bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. Affordable Care Act. week will increase the number of All points of order against provisions in the The second bill in today’s rule, H.R. Americans who are eligible to con- bill, as amended, are waived. The previous 6311, the Increasing Access to Lower tribute to tax-free health savings ac- question shall be considered as ordered on Premium Plans and Expanding Health

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.015 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7096 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Savings Accounts Act of 2018, expands plan and save for their healthcare and the access to health savings ac- the availability and the use of health needs, and, also, these individuals will counts by allowing plans categorized as savings accounts to allow individuals see lower premiums on their healthcare catastrophic and bronze plans in the and their families to save their own plans. individual and small group markets to money and budget for the healthcare For the last several Congresses, I qualify for HSA contributions. That is needs they have that otherwise would have argued to improve the utility of included in this bill. not be part of their budget. health savings accounts, and so I am Lastly, I appreciate working with the Today’s resolution provides for a pleased to see that these important Ways and Means Health Subcommittee closed rule for H.R. 184, the Protect policies are being advanced through Chairman PETER ROSKAM on H.R. 6311. Medical Innovation Act of 2017. This is the House this week. One of the key provisions of the bill is the standard practice for a tax-related In addition to offering health insur- to provide an off-ramp from measure on the House floor. The rule ance, many employers often arrange to ObamaCare’s rising premiums and lim- provides for 1 hour of debate, equally reimburse their employees and their ited choices by allowing the premium divided and controlled by the chair and dependants some of their medical ex- tax credit to be used for qualified plans the ranking minority member on the penses that are not covered by health offered outside of the law’s exchanges Committee on Ways and Means. The insurance. Health flexible spending ac- and healthcare.gov. rule does provide the minority with the counts and health reimbursement ar- In addition, it expands access to the customary motion to recommit with or rangements are two of the more com- lowest premium plans available, so- without instructions. mon arrangements offered by employ- called copper or catastrophic plans, for The second part of today’s resolution ers. all individuals purchasing coverage in provides for a closed rule for H.R. 6311, I have heard the frustration of em- the individual market and allows the the Increasing Access to Lower Pre- ployees, many of whom are my con- premium tax credit to be used to offset mium Plans and Expanding Health stituents in north Texas, over for- the cost of such plans. Savings Accounts Act of 2018. The rule feiting the remaining amounts in their b 1230 provides for 1 hour of debate equally di- flexible spending account at the end of I recognize not everyone will choose vided and controlled by the chair and each plan year. We can all agree that to have a health savings account, but the ranking minority member of the the healthcare needs and purchases they should have the option because Committee on Ways and Means. The vary from year to year, where one year HSAs represent a powerful tool to customary motion to recommit with or a person may have more medical ex- lower prices and improve access to without instructions is provided to the penses than the next or the other way quality care for everyone, and those minority. around. are goals that we can all share. This week, Republicans in the House One of the provisions in H.R. 6311 Now, it is well documented that continue our efforts to increase more eliminates the arbitrary ‘‘use it or lose many of the provisions contained with- healthcare options while driving down it’’ rule and allows flexible spending in the Affordable Care Act have nega- premiums in the individual market. account balances to be carried over to tive consequences on patients, both in According to the Office of the Assist- the next plan year within a reasonable access to care and in affordability. One ant Secretary for Planning and Evalua- annual flexible spending account con- of the provisions that has been univer- tion at the Department of Health and tribution limit. sally criticized is that, on a large, bi- Human Services, premiums on the ex- Another provision allows working partisan nature, its repeal was called change are 105 percent higher, on aver- seniors that are covered under an HSA- for almost immediately after the pas- age, in calendar year 2017, compared to eligible high deductible health plan sage of the Affordable Care Act. This is premiums in the individual market in and enrolled in Medicare part A to con- the tax on medical device manufactur- calendar year 2013, which was the last tinue to contribute to their health sav- ers, or more commonly referred to as year before the Affordable Care Act ings account. Just because someone be- the medical device tax. took effect. comes eligible for Medicare because of It seems illogical that within a piece It is important that we continue to age, they should not be prohibited from of legislation that was purported to address the negative impact that the continuing to contribute to a health make medical care available, more ac- Affordable Care Act has had on the in- savings account. cessible to all Americans, the Federal dividual market and to help Americans Under current law, there are annual Government would want to tax the across the country be more in charge of health savings account contribution very providers of medical innovation their healthcare purchases. limits. In 2018, the limit for an indi- that create devices to improve the de- Thus far, the Republican Congress vidual was $3,450. For families, that livery of healthcare, but, nevertheless, has been successful in nullifying the in- amount was $6,900. While these limits that is exactly what happened when dividual mandate, repealing the Inde- are updated annually for inflation, ObamaCare passed in 2010, and it was pendent Payment Advisory Board, and they are significantly less than the done as a means to pay for the astro- delaying many of the harmful taxes on combined limit on annual out-of-pock- nomical price tag that accompanied American businesses and American et deductible expenses. the Affordable Care Act. consumers. I am also encouraged by H.R. 6311 would allow individuals to This tax burden is unfair, and it ac- the actions of the administration in increase their contributions to equal to tually increases costs that consumers permitting more low-cost limited dura- the combined annual limit on the out- pay at their doctors’ offices. The tax tion insurance plans and allowing ac- of-pocket and deductible expenses has also been cited by dozens of med- cess to association health plans for under their HSA-qualified insurance ical device manufacturers who have or more small businesses. plan. That would be $6,550 for an indi- are considering moving their oper- These are choices that are provided vidual and $13,300 for a family this ations overseas so that they can con- to the American people so that they, year. tinue to innovate without the heavy the American people, can be in the The Affordable Care Act limits the burden of this tax stifling their growth. driver’s seat, not the other way around option of individuals enrolled in bronze This tax slows the creation of new with the ACA’s government-approved and so-called copper, or catastrophic, techniques and devices, which will one-size-fits-all healthcare model. plans to make HSA contributions. make the delivery of medicine more ef- With that in mind, two bills we are Also, only those under 30 or those that ficient, and it puts at risk the jobs that considering this week seek to expand qualify for a hardship exemption are were created by the creation of such and improve health savings accounts. actually able to purchase the so-called devices. Under the current rule, H.R. 6311, the copper health plan. That is a 50 percent For anyone who thinks that we are Increasing Access to Lower Premium actuarial value health plan. merely talking about the largest and Plan and Expanding Health Savings So, today, I am pleased that a bill most expensive pieces of technology Accounts Act of 2018, will enhance the that I introduced with Representative found within a hospital—basically, benefit of tax-preferred health ac- ROSKAM, H.R. 6314, the Health Savings your MRI, CAT scans, and some sur- counts so that individuals can better Act of 2018, to expand the eligibility gical equipment—let’s be clear that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.017 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7097 this tax covers every piece of medical attempt to eviscerate the Affordable tecting people with preexisting condi- equipment, from those large machines Care Act, do nothing to curb rising tions, these bills continue to balloon to the smallest of items, including sy- drug costs, and do nothing to curtail Federal spending and deficits. ringes used to deliver lifesaving anti- skyrocketing premium hikes. Instead, While we were promised increased biotics and vaccines. It continues to H.R. 6311 continues the Republican ma- revenue from the GOP tax cuts of 2017, negatively impact a number of con- jority’s destructive path of under- with the GOP falling back on tired stituents in my district and, I am cer- mining and destabilizing our health in- talking points like tax cuts paying for tain, in districts around the country, surance markets. themselves, we now have the Congres- and it does continue to create a burden This package of six bills will likely sional Budget Office projecting over $1 on a number of companies. lead to fewer choices and competition trillion in budget deficits in 2020, even The medical device tax has led to the for moderate- and low-income families before legislation like this passes. elimination of thousands of good-pay- who do not have the disposable income Whatever happened to the conserv- ing jobs, and repealing it would be the to pay premium costs up front. ative Republicans? Where did the fiscal first step to bringing those jobs back In bringing up the second measure, conservative Republicans go, who are and stem the loss of future jobs within H.R. 184, my friends across the aisle blowing up the deficit in this country? this vital industry that is helping to seem intent on ignoring the pressing The amount of fiscal irresponsibility mitigate rising costs of healthcare due issues facing our country, like passing demonstrated by my friends across the to the burdensome provisions within sensible legislation that will address aisle is shocking and will be a great the Affordable Care Act. the country’s ongoing gun violence epi- detriment to all Americans in the fu- This is a tax on business, a tax on demic, passing legislation that will ture. consumers, and a tax on innovation. To protect our election infrastructure Moreover, these pieces of legislation date, 33,000 jobs have been lost in the from hostile foreign hacking, or pass- do nothing to holistically solve the medical device industry since the pas- ing legislation that will help reunite most pressing concerns hardworking sage of the Affordable Care Act, and it the more than 2,500 separated children Americans have with healthcare: ever- is projected that over 130,000 additional with their families. Rather, the Repub- increasing premiums, unstable health jobs are on the chopping block. lican majority wants to waste valuable markets, and exploding drug costs. In Why would anyone be surprised about legislative time in repealing a tax that fact, in the last year and a half, the this? Excise taxes—and that is what won’t even be active until 2020. majority has gone out of their way to this is, an excise tax—are meant to This is the last week before we go on destabilize health markets as much as lead to a reduction in the consumption a 5-week recess and we are doing noth- they can. of the goods being taxed. We place an ing. Even worse, these bills are not off- Instead of encouraging Americans to excise tax on cigarettes. We want to set and, taken together with tomor- enroll in health insurance, the Depart- discourage people from smoking. We row’s bills, will add up to $90 billion to ment of Health and Human Services make it burdensome to afford a smok- our deficit. They are not paid for. And has created an advertising campaign ing habit. I challenge my colleague on the floor explicitly undermining the individual Did we really intend, with the pas- handling this rule to tell me where the insurance markets created under the sage of the Affordable Care Act by con- pay-fors are, and, if there are none, Affordable Care Act. Republicans have gressional Democrats in 2010, to make why are they not paid for—$90 billion. cut the Department’s budget for those it more burdensome to use more effi- Mr. Speaker, I strongly believe that grassroots organizations whose sole cient medical devices? the epidemic of gun violence that purpose is to assist folks in signing up H.R. 184 has bipartisan, bicameral plagues our communities must be ad- for health insurance. How much of the support, with currently 277 cosponsors. dressed in a comprehensive manner and budget did they cut? 92 percent. Republican leadership in the House has without further delay. Unfortunately, In addition to this, HHS has threat- heard this request and heard the calls our Nation has witnessed far too many ened States that try to lower pre- from many Members within this body senseless deaths caused each day by miums, and the Trump administration and is moving this bill in a responsible firearms, and that continues to rise. has even canceled cost-sharing reduc- way to put Americans back to work Under a Republican majority, many tion payments to insurers, which the and lower healthcare costs for all. commonsense reforms, such as the as- CBO projects will leave 1 million more Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to sault weapons ban—and somebody people uninsured, raise premiums by 20 support today’s rule and the under- please tell me why anyone other than to 25 percent over the next 2 years, and lying bill, and I reserve the balance of the military and law enforcement increase the Federal deficit by $200 bil- my time. needs an assault weapon; I just, for the lion. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield life of me, cannot understand it—were Listen, people, when we started this myself such time as I may consume, allowed to expire. I might add, flood in- business of the Affordable Care Act—as and I thank the gentleman from Texas surance is getting ready to expire. We much as my friends on the other side for yielding me the customary 30 min- are not taking that measure up. who have the prerogative, in the ma- utes for debate. Providing nearly unfettered access to jority, to be in disagreement with this Mr. Speaker, I rise to debate this a variety of firearms does not make measure as well as any others and to rule, but I would urge my colleague any sense. Someone said to me, well, offer this thing that ain’t going no- from Texas to be mindful that this there are 103 kinds of automatic weap- where here today—the simple fact of ain’t going nowhere, so we really are, ons; and I say ban them all because the matter is, some few years back, we when all is said and done, wasting our they don’t have any business in the had 42 million Americans who were un- time. This is not likely to be taken up hands of people in the streets at all. insured. We now have more than 42 by the Senate in August, and why we While we need to preserve the rights million Americans uninsured, and that are not doing other things, I simply of responsible gun owners—and I am is wrong. cannot understand. one of them; I believe in the Second I said yesterday in the Rules Com- The Protect Medical Innovation Act Amendment—we must focus more of mittee, all of us, 535—the Senate and and the Increasing Access to Lower our attention and efforts on keeping the House—and the six delegates, Premium Plans and Expanding Health weapons out of the hands of dangerous ought to be locked up up here until we Savings Accounts Act are worth con- individuals instead of attacking and come up with a sensible solution for sidering. The gentleman from Texas undermining the healthcare for mil- the American people with reference to certainly is an expert in this area and lions of hardworking Americans. a crisis. is most sincere. It is regrettable that While the present administration It was said yesterday by the chair of the legislation, ultimately, that will works to further the majority’s aim of this committee that the plan that is pass the House of Representatives ain’t dismantling the most popular aspects going to be offered—that we did offer going nowhere. of the Affordable Care Act, like keep- and then they voted against—would be Taken together, these measures do ing children on their parents’ health the best healthcare plan in the world. nothing to ameliorate the Republican insurance until the age of 26 and pro- Well, it ain’t the best healthcare plan

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.019 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7098 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 in the world. The best healthcare plans have any way of fixing it, and I am not us will return here and be sworn in in in the world are in Denmark, Sweden, even sure that they want to fix it. In- January. Let’s all make a commitment Switzerland, Australia, and a whole deed, they seem to be going out of their that we are going to work together, to- bunch of other places other than Amer- way making it somehow worse. gether, to get all of the resources, the ica. Now I hear all of the voices out tremendous minds, the incredible staffs And while the Trump administration there. I had a constituent call the that work here in this institution to- has pushed junk healthcare plans, even other day to tell me that I wasn’t as gether, and try to make sure that we the organizations that originally lob- liberal as his people were, liberal, and do the right thing by the American bied the administration for access to that I didn’t understand this whole people and pass a measure that will these plans now say they no longer healthcare system. cause everyone to have affordable care. want to use them. And I told him: Listen, man, in 1992, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of All in all, as a result of these poli- when I ran for office, I ran on the my time. cies, as I have indicated, 4 million premise of universal healthcare for Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield fewer Americans have health insurance every American, period. And when we myself such time as I may consume. than when Donald John Trump took of- did the Affordable Healthcare Act, it The gentleman is quite correct in fice, and healthcare costs continue to ultimately got called the ObamaCare identifying the other body as some- rise unabated. Act. times an obstacle to good public pol- I need not remind my colleagues that I have said in the Rules Committee icy, for it was 1 year ago that the other people in the United States pay far repeatedly, it probably should have body blocked a health care reform that more for healthcare than in any other been called the Hastings/ObamaCare this body had passed the previous May. industrialized nation on Earth, and, in Act, or perhaps we would have done But, Mr. Speaker, I want to draw the most cases, they get far less. We spend what Dr. BURGESS asked us to do and it House’s attention to an article in to- over 18 percent of our gross domestic would be called the Burgess Healthcare day’s Wall Street Journal. The title of product on healthcare, compared to Act. the article is ‘‘TrumpCare beats most other countries, which spend less I don’t care what it is called. It needs ObamaCare.’’ And I just want to quote than 10 percent, with much of the dis- to be called something that is going to a little bit from this article. parity occurring thanks to higher drug help every American, and not just a To set the stage, in December, with prices and administrative overhead. handful, and certainly not the richest the repeal of the individual mandate, b 1245 people in this country who don’t even and quoting here: ‘‘But while many need any healthcare. They have been at people didn’t realize it at the time, it Despite the money we pour into our turns out that Mr. Trump has been healthcare, the United States has the the socialized healthcare business for all of their lives and, therefore, people helping to improve an important shortest life expectancy and highest in- source of insurance coverage since vir- fant mortality of any modern industri- like Donald John Trump don’t need to worry about this kind of thing. tually the moment he took office.’’ alized nation—let me repeat that—the Continuing to quote here: ‘‘By shortest life expectancy, and the high- It is those people that are vulnerable. It is those people on Medicaid in Flor- prioritizing economic growth and re- est infant mortality of any modern in- ducing the tax and regulatory burdens dustrialized nation. ida and other States that didn’t expand Medicaid, 900,000 of them in my State, on U.S. business, Mr. Trump has helped We have far fewer physicians—and we create an economy with more job open- had better do something about that; that are left to the mercies of the sys- tem. ings than ever before. As if by magic, not in this measure, not in the Afford- the invisible hand of a freer market- able Healthcare Act. We had better get And what do they do? All of us know what they do. When they have place is now generating new benefits as busy trying to figure out how to pro- employers compete to fill all those vide more physicians, more nurses, healthcare, they go to the hospital, to the emergency room, generally speak- open positions.’’ more research for a variety of meas- Continuing to quote here: ‘‘For the ing, they are treated, and then those ures that are oncoming that our Nation first time in six years, the share of U.S. taxpayers in those respective jurisdic- is going to be confronted with. workers offered health insurance tions wind up paying for it. We have fewer hospital beds and, in through their employer has risen, a perhaps what is the most depressing So why don’t we get our act together and try to do something about it now? sign a tighter labor market is prompt- statistic of all of U.S. healthcare, the ing businesses to offer more generous United States is one of only 13 coun- I have proudly advocated for multiple pieces of legislation that will improve benefits.’’ tries in the world where the rate of ma- So, Mr. Speaker, I simply submit and strengthen the Medicare system, ternal mortality, defined as the death that the activities of the Trump ad- including H.R. 676, the Expanded and of a mother in the year after she gives ministration have, indeed, improved Improved Medicare for All Act, which birth, is now worse than it was 25 years the healthcare landscape in this coun- will provide all individuals residing in ago. try. That is something we should ac- the United States and the United And here we are, continuing to jaw knowledge and embrace. jack about something that ain’t going States territories, with affordable I reserve the balance of my time. nowhere, and we have situations in our healthcare, including that which is Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield country that all of us know something medically most necessary, such as pri- myself such time as I may consume. about, all of us care about. There is no mary and preventative care, dietary Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the pre- Republican in the House or Democrat and nutritional therapies, prescription vious question, I am going to offer an in the House that doesn’t care about drugs, emergency care, long-term care, amendment to the rule that would their constituents and their mental health services, dental services, change the rules of the House to pre- healthcare. And at the very same time, and vision care. Underscore preventa- vent any legislation from being consid- what we are winding up doing is argu- tive care. And if we did more in that ered that would reduce the guaranteed ing with each other and nothing is get- arena, we wouldn’t have as much of a benefits for individuals enrolled in ei- ting done, and that is just dead wrong problem as we do today. ther Medicare or Medicaid programs. for this country. Medicare for All will save taxpayers I ask unanimous consent to insert Black women, in particular, are three hundreds of dollars a month. Now, I the text of my amendment in the times more likely to die from health- firmly believe that we must focus pri- RECORD, along with extraneous mate- related issues to their pregnancy. How orities in the interest of the American rial, immediately prior to the vote on can we seemingly pay for more people to ensure that our citizens have the previous question. healthcare now than at any point in continued access to healthcare serv- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there our Nation’s history and, yet, at the ices. objection to the request of the gen- same time, be getting worse care than So when we come back here in Sep- tleman from Florida? we were decades ago? tember, when we finish all of our fight- There was no objection. We have a fundamentally broken sys- ing in November, and we have some- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I urge tem. The majority doesn’t seem to body that is going to get elected, 435 of my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ and defeat

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.020 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7099 the previous question so that we may gun violence, opioid addiction, the im- amendment between the Houses, or con- protect these critical programs for this migration problems, and ongoing for- ference report which includes any provision generation and the next. eign cyber attacks on our election sys- described in paragraph (b). Mr. Speaker, I would be prepared now tem’s infrastructure, we simply must (b) A provision referred to in paragraph (a) to advise my colleague from Texas that is a provision which, if enacted into law, engage in the complicated and difficult would result in either of the following: I have no further speakers, and I am process of improving our country’s cur- (1) a reduction of guaranteed benefits for prepared to close when, and if, he is. rent policies. individuals entitled to, or enrolled for, bene- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I am I, as well as my colleagues on this fits under the Medicare program under title prepared to close as well. side of the aisle, stand ready to work XVIII of 18 such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq.); Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield with Members of Congress to bring or myself the balance of my time. commonsense legislation to the floor (2) a reduction of benefits or eligibility for Mr. Speaker, in closing, this place, that will benefit all Americans and not individuals enrolled in, or eligible to receive medical assistance through, a State Med- the people’s House, should be about ap- just the rarified few. proaching our congressional respon- icaid plan or waiver under title XIX of such Mr. Speaker, I am going to urge a Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 5 et seq.). sibilities and daily activities in a man- ‘‘no’’ vote on the rule and a ‘‘no’’ vote ner that is fair and respectful to all (c) It shall not be in order to consider a on the previous question. This measure rule or order that waives the application of Americans; in a manner where the ap- we are debating here today ain’t going paragraph (a). As disposition of any point of propriate committee of jurisdiction nowhere, and I yield back the balance order under paragraph (a) or this paragraph holds hearings and markups; in a man- of my time. (except a point of order against an amend- ner where experts in the field are re- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield ment pursuant to paragraph (a)), the Chair spected and consulted; in a manner shall put the question of consideration with myself the balance of my time. where Members of both political par- respect to the measure, order, conference re- The gentleman from Florida is mak- ties have the ability to offer amend- port, or rule as applicable. The question of ing a point about open rules, and I do ments and debate the contents of bills consideration shall be debatable for 10 min- feel obligated to point out in the 111th that come to the House floor. utes by the Member initiating the point of Congress—that was the Congress that order and for 10 minutes by an opponent, but Unfortunately, in this historically shall otherwise be decided without inter- closed-off, Republican run House, that was the first 2 years of President Obama’s administration—in the 111th vening motion except one that the House ad- is not the case. And let me make it journ.’’ very clear. Even though in the Ways Congress, under Speaker PELOSI, the majority had zero open rules. That is and Means and the Appropriations THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT zero open rules in the 2 years in which Committee, as a matter of practice, we IT REALLY MEANS we saw the passage of the Affordable allow for closed rules, we now have, This vote, the vote on whether to order the with these three rules that are likely Care Act, the passage of Dodd-Frank; previous question on a special rule, is not to be finished today, we have 95 closed the House-passed Waxman/Markey, merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- rules. This is 2018, and not in the his- which was a cap-and-trade global dering the previous question is a vote tory of the people’s House has the proc- warming bill, so significant pieces of against the Republican majority agenda and ess been as closed. legislation passed the floor of this a vote to allow the Democratic minority to When the Speaker of the House of House, all under closed rules. offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about what the House should be debating. Representatives began this session, he But, Mr. Speaker, today’s rule brings forward two pieces of legislation that Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the indicated that it would be the most House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- open session that we would have. And will have a meaningful impact on scribes the vote on the previous question on yet, it is not the case. Americans’ healthcare costs, including the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the I spoke earlier about immigration, the premiums and the prices they pay consideration of the subject before the House and I saw this morning where the ma- for medicines. being made by the Member in charge.’’ To defeat the previous question is to give the jority leader has determined, even b 1300 though having promised his own con- opposition a chance to decide the subject be- ference that he would have a vote on H.R. 184, the Protect Medical Innova- fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that immigration, he ain’t gonna do it. tion Act of 2017, which will repeal the Affordable Care Act’s ill-conceived ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- Now, something is wrong with this mand for the previous question passes the process and it needs to be corrected, medical device tax, and H.R. 6311, the Increasing Access to Lower Premium control of the resolution to the opposition’’ and we can correct it going forward. in order to offer an amendment. On March We will make 100, and then we will be Plans and Expanding Health Savings 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- historically referenced as the most Account Act of 2018, which will provide fered a rule resolution. The House defeated closed Congress in the history of the greater freedom for Americans to use the previous question and a member of the United States of America. their own money to pay for medical ex- opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, What we see are my friends across penses out of their health savings ac- asking who was entitled to recognition. counts, both of these build on the Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R–Illinois) said: the aisle, bending over backwards to ‘‘The previous question having been refused, reward a very specific and elite con- House’s work over the past 2 years to make healthcare a more patient-cen- the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- stituency. Week after week, the power- gerald, who had asked the gentleman to ful gun lobby is rewarded as Repub- tered market. yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to lican leadership refuses to bring up Mr. Speaker, I certainly want to the first recognition.’’ even the most commonsense gun vio- thank Representatives PAULSEN and The Republican majority may say ‘‘the lence prevention legislation. ROSKAM for their work on these meas- vote on the previous question is simply a The next week, like today, the pow- ures. I urge my colleagues to support vote on whether to proceed to an immediate erful medical insurance lobby chalks today’s rule and move the debate for- vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] has no substantive legislative or policy im- up a win as this Republican-led Con- ward on this legislation. The material previously referred to plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what gress votes in favor of special interests they have always said. Listen to the Repub- over the interests of hardworking by Mr. HASTINGS is as follows: lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Americans. AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 1011 OFFERED BY Process in the United States House of Rep- Some other people that make out MR. HASTINGS resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s like bandits that we never talk about At the end of the resolution, add the fol- how the Republicans describe the previous are the insurance companies. I could lowing new section: question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- spend a whole hour talking about how SEC. 3. Rule XXI of the Rules of the House though it is generally not possible to amend they are benefiting while we are about of Representatives is amended by adding at the rule because the majority Member con- the end the following new clause: trolling the time will not yield for the pur- the business of tying each other in ‘‘RESTRICTIONS ON CONSIDERATION OF LEGIS- pose of offering an amendment, the same re- knots with verbiage rather than with LATION THAT WOULD CUT MEDICARE OR MED- sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- substantive legislation. ICAID. vious question on the rule.... When the Mr. Speaker, while there is no quick 13. (a) It shall not be in order to consider motion for the previous question is defeated, fix to any of these measures, not to a bill, joint resolution, motion, amendment, control of the time passes to the Member

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.022 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7100 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 who led the opposition to ordering the pre- motion to recommit with or without instruc- allowing the House of Representatives vious question. That Member, because he tions. to continue to operate while Members then controls the time, may offer an amend- SEC. 2. On any legislative day during the are home, working with their constitu- ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of period from July 27, 2018, through September ents during the August district work amendment.’’ 3, 2018— In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House (a) the Journal of the proceedings of the period. of Representatives, the subchapter titled previous day shall be considered as approved; Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal and support of the rule on H.R. 6199, the Re- to order the previous question on such a rule (b) the Chair may at any time declare the storing Access to Medication and Mod- [a special rule reported from the Committee House adjourned to meet at a date and time, ernizing Health Savings Accounts Act on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- within the limits of clause 4, section 5, arti- of 2018. This rule includes the work of ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- cle I of the Constitution, to be announced by various Members of Congress on the tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- the Chair in declaring the adjournment. important issue of modernizing health jection of the motion for the previous ques- SEC. 3. The Speaker may appoint Members savings accounts. While this legislation tion on a resolution reported from the Com- to perform the duties of the Chair for the du- did not move through the Health Sub- mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- ration of the period addressed by section 2 of ber leading the opposition to the previous this resolution as though under clause 8(a) of committee of the Energy and Com- question, who may offer a proper amendment rule I. merce Committee, my fellow members or motion and who controls the time for de- SEC. 4. Each day during the period ad- on the other Health Subcommittee, bate thereon.’’ dressed by section 2 of this resolution shall that of the Ways and Means Com- Clearly, the vote on the previous question not constitute a calendar day for purposes of mittee, have done quality work in mov- on a rule does have substantive policy impli- section 7 of the War Powers Resolution (50 ing this package. Each bill was re- cations. It is one of the only available tools U.S.C. 1546). ported favorably out of the Ways and for those who oppose the Republican major- SEC. 5. Each day during the period ad- Means Committee. ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- dressed by section 2 of this resolution shall Mr. Speaker, I have long been a sup- native views the opportunity to offer an al- not constitute a legislative day for purposes ternative plan. of clause 7 of rule XIII. porter of increasing flexibility within our healthcare system, especially Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield SEC. 6. Each day during the period ad- dressed by section 2 of this resolution shall through the use of health savings ac- back the balance of my time, and I not constitute a calendar or legislative day counts. Health savings accounts allow move the previous question on the res- for purposes of clause 7(c)(1) of rule XXII. patients to feel more involved and to olution. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. POE have more control over their The SPEAKER pro tempore. The of Texas). The gentleman from Texas is healthcare spending. As someone who question is on ordering the previous recognized for 1 hour. has personally had a health savings ac- question. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, for the count in the past, I believe it to be a The question was taken; and the purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- powerful tool but that qualified ex- Speaker pro tempore announced that tomary 30 minutes to the gentlewoman penses have been limited for too long. the ayes appeared to have it. from California (Mrs. TORRES), pending This package will give more power to Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, on that which I yield myself such time as I consumers by allowing them to use I demand the yeas and nays. may consume. During consideration of their hard-earned savings that they put The yeas and nays were ordered. this resolution, all time yielded is for into their health savings accounts on The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the purpose of debate only. an expanded number of healthcare ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- GENERAL LEAVE goods and services. ceedings on this question will be post- The first bill in this package, Pro- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I ask poned. moting High-Value Healthcare unanimous consent that all Members f Through Flexibility for High-Deduct- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- ible Health Plans Act, introduced by PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION tend their remarks. Chairman ROSKAM, allows for first-dol- OF H.R. 6199, RESTORING ACCESS The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there lar coverage flexibility for high-deduct- TO MEDICATION ACT OF 2018, objection to the request of the gen- ible health plans. Many individuals, es- AND PROVIDING FOR PRO- tleman from Texas? pecially in the post-Affordable Care CEEDINGS DURING THE PERIOD There was no objection. Act world, have chosen to purchase FROM JULY 27, 2018, THROUGH Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, House high-deductible health plans. While SEPTEMBER 3, 2018 Resolution 1012 provides for the consid- this is a reasonable choice for many eration of an important bill to return Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, by di- consumers, there are some who are control of healthcare spending and rection of the Committee on Rules, I faced with high out-of-pocket costs. call up House Resolution 1012 and ask budgeting back where it belongs: with H.R. 6199 allows health plans to pro- for its immediate consideration. the patient. vide coverage for up to $250 per year for The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- H.R. 6199, the Restoring Access to individuals or $500 per year for families lows: Medication and Modernizing Health before they meet their deductible. The H. RES. 1012 Savings Accounts Act of 2018, would goal of this provision is to incentivize Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- amend the Internal Revenue Code of services that could reduce future lution it shall be in order to consider in the 1986 to include certain over-the-counter healthcare costs, such as primary care House the bill (H.R. 6199) to amend the Inter- medical products as qualified medical visits and telehealth services. nal Revenue Code of 1986 to include certain expenses for the purposes of spending Additionally, under current law, indi- over-the-counter medical products as quali- one’s own dollars within a health sav- viduals are unable to contribute to an fied medical expenses. All points of order ings account. HSA if they participate in a direct pri- against consideration of the bill are waived. Today’s resolution provides for a rule mary care service arrangement. Rep- In lieu of the amendment in the nature of a to allow H.R. 6199, the Restoring Ac- resentative ERIK PAULSEN’s Primary substitute recommended by the Committee cess to Medication and Modernizing on Ways and Means now printed in the bill, Care Enhancement Act, which is in- an amendment in the nature of a substitute Health Savings Accounts Act of 2018, cluded in this rule, enables patients to consisting of the text of Rules Committee the standard practice for a tax-related be able to participate in a direct pri- Print 115-82 shall be considered as adopted. measure on the House floor. The rule mary care service arrangement and re- The bill, as amended, shall be considered as provides for 1 hour of debate equally di- main qualified to contribute to a read. All points of order against provisions vided and controlled between the chair health savings account. It also includes in the bill, as amended, are waived. The pre- and the ranking minority member of direct primary care service arrange- vious question shall be considered as ordered the Committee on Ways and Means. ment fees as medical expenses. on the bill, as amended, and on any further The rule does, however, provide the mi- amendment thereto, to final passage without Some individuals are fortunate intervening motion except: (1) one hour of nority with the customary motion to enough to receive certain healthcare debate equally divided and controlled by the recommit with or without instructions. services at or nearby their workplace chair and ranking minority member of the Also included in the resolution before through their employer. Representa- Committee on Ways and Means; and (2) one us today are the standard provisions tive MIKE KELLY’s bipartisan Health

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.011 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7101 Savings Account Improvement Act of ances into health savings account gress should be taking steps to make it 2018, which is included in this package, funds if they enroll in a high-deduct- easier for Americans to save, not re- addresses this issue. ible health plan with an HSA. This is stricting their options. The rule and While it is convenient and helpful to critical in empowering patients and al- the underlying bills included in this have access to such services, these in- lowing them the flexibility to change package strengthen consumer power dividuals should not be barred from health plans without losing their sav- and increase flexibility for patients in having a health savings account. This ings. paying for their medical expenses. package creates a special rule that in- There is a dollar limitation of $2,650 I appreciate all of the work that the dividuals can receive free or discounted for conversions for individuals, $5,300 Members have put into the provisions services offered by their employers on- for families, and the funds transferred of this bill. I urge my colleagues to site or at retail medical clinics. These into the HSA would count toward the support today’s rule and the under- services may include physical exams, enrollee’s HSA contribution for that lying legislation, and I reserve the bal- immunizations, nonprescription drugs, taxable year. ance of my time. treatment of employment-related inju- H.R. 6199, the bill introduced by Rep- Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I yield ries, drug testing if required as a condi- resentative LYNN JENKINS from Kansas, myself such time as I may consume, tion of employment, hearing or vision makes commonsense, patient-centered and I thank the gentleman from Texas screenings, or other services that are reforms to help defray costs for indi- for yielding me the customary 30 min- not considered significant benefits in viduals. Over-the-counter medications, utes. the nature of medical care. allergy and cold medicines, antibiotic Mr. Speaker, $2 trillion, that is what Mr. Speaker, the post-Affordable ointment, and pain relievers are his- this GOP Congress added to the debt Care Act world is riddled with flaws, torically ineligible expenditures for last year when they passed their tax but one of the biggest problems is its HSA and other tax-favored healthcare scam, $2 trillion that has been taken failure to promote consumer-driven accounts. The ACA created a require- away from our children and grand- healthcare. Expanding the use of ment in Federal law that forced ac- children to give tax breaks to corpora- health savings accounts could go a long count holders to go to their doctor to tions and the very wealthy. way to reverse this trend. Health sav- obtain a prescription for over-the- And today, we take up three bills ings accounts give consumers incen- counter medications before purchasing which are estimated to add another tives to manage their own healthcare them with their health savings account $100 billion. I suppose in comparison to costs by coupling a tax-favored savings or flexible spending account. Individ- the tax scam, that may be small pota- account used to pay medical expenses uals who fail to jump through these toes, but this is real spending with no with a high-deductible health plan that hoops and purchase over-the-counter offsets and no effort to even try to find meets certain requirements for medications without a prescription, in an offset. When the 115th Congress fi- deductibles and out-of-pocket expense fact, face a tax penalty for making a nally ends, we will have to put trillions limits. The funds in a health savings nonqualified distribution. on the Nation’s credit card—trillions. This policy drives unnecessary utili- account are owned by the individual Next year, those of us who may be zation of doctor services, decreases ac- and may be rolled over from year to lucky enough to be back will have the cess to over-the-counter medications, year. hard task of digging ourselves out of and discourages people from taking Health savings accounts are not a this hole, this wall of debt that will control of saving for their healthcare novel idea. They have been around have been created by the 115th Con- needs. H.R. 6199 repeals this harmful since 2004, but current health savings gress. We will have new Members here provision, puts consumers back in the account policy is extraordinarily re- who will need to deal with the deci- driver’s seat, and allows them efficient strictive, making it harder for con- sions that we are making here today. access to appropriate medications. Let me tell you about my experience sumers to take advantage of it. Lastly, this legislation permits indi- I have spent several years in devel- in having to deal with those very irre- viduals to invest their hard-earned oping extensive reforms to increase the sponsible decisions that put us and health savings account dollars into potential for health savings accounts their physical fitness and well-being. In pushed us into debt. In 2008, when I was first elected to for consumers, and H.R. 6199 includes many ways, income is a hurdle for indi- the State legislature, I was elected meaningful improvements that we can, viduals and families who would like to with a wall of debt of $15 billion. My in fact, get across the finish line now participate in a physical activity, to help families now. whether they would like to pay for a first 30 days in office, we passed four One of these improvements is the membership at a fitness facility or pay different budgets, and none of it added ability for spouses to contribute to a for their children to join a youth sports up. We simply couldn’t pay our bills. health savings account under certain league. This legislation opens the door We had charged ourselves to a place circumstances even if their spouse has for paying for such activities with that we could no longer continue. No one got paid for 6 or 7 months—no a flexible spending account. Under cur- health savings account dollars. rent law, one spouse can reimburse ex- Known originally as a standalone one, not the small contractors doing penses for their spouses’ and other de- bill, the Personal Health Investment business with the State of California, pendents’ medical expenses; therefore, Today Act, introduced by Representa- not the big contractors, not our State employees, not even the members of the other spouse is considered to be in- tive JASON SMITH, allows qualified eligible for an HSA. sports and fitness expenses to count as the legislature. As a matter of fact, I This provision enables the spouse qualified medical expenses. These par- don’t come from money, so every without the flexible spending account ticular expenses are capped at $500 a month I took a loan to make my mort- to reimburse for medical expenses, year for individuals and $1,000 on a gage. And this is where the 115th Con- with certain restrictions. This is crit- joint return. gress is leading us today. There are no ical, as it gives individuals increased easy choices. flexibility to save for their own b 1315 Mr. Speaker, this rule makes in order healthcare expenses that a shared flexi- Passage of this provision will assist H.R. 6199, the Restoring Access to ble spending account for the whole individuals and families across the Na- Medication and Modernizing Health family may not provide. tion in investing in their physical fit- Savings Accounts Act of 2018. H.R. 6199 Additionally, this bill allows for indi- ness, which can lead them to healthier claims to restore access to medication viduals to terminate or convert their lives and stave off conditions such as and modernizes health savings ac- flexible spending account and health diabetes and obesity. These bills are an counts. This bill makes minor changes reimbursement accounts into a health important example of the work we are that largely favor higher income-earn- savings account under certain cir- doing right now to advance Member- ing individuals who can afford to set cumstances. Employers would be able driven solutions that will improve aside that extra money for things like to allow their employees to convert healthcare for all Americans. gym memberships. their flexible spending account and Deductibles, out-of-pocket limita- This is not, however, the worst bill health reimbursement account bal- tions have been steadily growing. Con- we have voted on this year. And some

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.026 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7102 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 of us may end up even voting for it. pended. The House GOP leadership has helped to create an economy with After all, I support fixes to the Afford- knows the harm President Trump is more job openings than ever before. As able Care Act. We all do. However, it causing. Why don’t we do something if by magic, the invisible hand of a does not address the destructive ac- about it today? freer marketplace is now generating tions by President Trump that have The common theme here is an admin- new benefits as employers compete to disproportionately affected low-income istration consistently undoing key pro- fill all those open positions.’’ families. visions in our healthcare system, put- b 1330 After nearly 70 unsuccessful repeal ting Americans’ health at risk, increas- attempts by this Congress, this admin- ing premiums, which fall squarely on ‘‘For the first time in 6 years, the istration has, sadly, turned to chipping the shoulders of our families and will share of U.S. workers offered health in- away at the Affordable Care Act. Presi- add billions of dollars to our deficit. surance through their employer has dent Trump has resorted to undoing This isn’t the Affordable Care Act. risen, a sign a tighter labor market is key provisions of the healthcare law This is TrumpCare. This bill is more of prompting businesses to offer more without offering any working fixes, the same. Instead of finding solutions generous benefits. . . .’’ which ultimately puts in jeopardy ac- for the families that need it the most, ‘‘The Trump plan is repairing at least cess to healthcare. this bill will add $100 billion to the def- some of the damage caused by He has eliminated the individual icit. ObamaCare. Notes the Journal: mandate, which alone will increase We should be spending our time mak- ‘‘Among all private-sector workers premiums by 9 or 10 percent, and he is ing positive, meaningful improvements offered medical benefits, 72 percent expanding plans that offer slimmer to our existing healthcare system that opted to take them,’’ which is up from benefits and reduce consumer protec- ensures millions of Americans have ac- the 17 percent in 2010 when it began to tion, also known as junk plans, as they cess to affordable healthcare coverage. decline. cover nothing. We should be discussing legislation Again, Mr. Speaker, this is to point Healthcare plans that can charge you that puts downward pressure on pre- out that this is all occurring without a more for being a woman or for being miums so families don’t have to worry new government program. This is be- older or for having a preexisting condi- year after year if they will be able to cause of the strength of the economy. tion, these plans can also outright afford healthcare coverage. This is what happens when you put the deny coverage to anyone, putting 130 We should be helping to stabilize the focus on creating good jobs for Amer- million Americans’ healthcare at risk. marketplace so consumers can choose ican workers. This is the benefit that Expanding these volatile health plans from a variety of options that meet results. into the marketplace will also increase their unique family needs. I reserve the balance of my time, Mr. premiums between 1 and 4 percent. Instead, today, we are, sadly, wasting Speaker. Almost a year ago, the Trump admin- time discussing a bill that fails to ad- Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I yield istration announced that they were dress the concerns of millions of Amer- myself such time as I may consume. canceling cost-sharing reduction pay- icans. Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the pre- ments which helped nearly 6 million I am proud to be from California, a vious question, I will offer an amend- low-income Americans better afford State that stands up for their residents ment to the rule to bring up Represent- medical services by lowering to ensure that they have access to ative RUIZ’s legislation, H.R. 6479, deductibles and copayments. This healthcare coverage. In fact, Califor- which will ban junk insurance plans. alone caused premiums in 2018 to in- nia’s comprehensive outreach and mar- Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- crease by 20 percent, all while this ma- keting program was credited with low- sent to insert the text of my amend- jority won’t even try to find a $100 bil- ering premiums by 6 to 8 percent—real ment in the RECORD, along with extra- lion offset. Cutting cost-sharing pay- money. California is proof that effec- neous material, immediately prior to ments increased the deficit by $200 bil- tive advertising and outreach can in- the vote on the previous question. lion. The administration also recently crease enrollment, expand coverage, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there cut additional outreach and consumer stabilize risk pools, and lower pre- objection to the request of the gentle- education dollars to local organiza- miums. woman from California? tions by $10 million. But this administration—and There was no objection. And this is not the first time that through inaction, this Congress—is Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 they cut these critical dollars. From driving up healthcare prices for every minutes to the distinguished gen- the very beginning of this administra- American, including Californians. So tleman from California (Mr. RUIZ) to tion, millions of dollars in outreach, we will vote today on this bill, and it discuss our proposal. customer assistance and other help and will probably pass, and then it will die Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, premiums total enrollment time was cut out. Ad- in the Senate. And while we send the are skyrocketing across the country, ditionally, we are still waiting on a so- Senate more legislation that they will caused by this administration’s sabo- lution to combat the rising prescrip- never take up, Americans will continue tage of the Affordable Care Act. Just tion drug crisis, which was promised by to suffer. listen to the insurance company CEOs this administration. Like I said, this isn’t a bad bill, but who are directly stating that not fund- The increasing cost of prescription it only benefits 6 percent of Ameri- ing cost-sharing reductions for point of drugs in combination with the fore- cans—6 percent, not the 14 percent who care for patients who are struggling to casted increase in medical price infla- lack healthcare insurance at all. pay their bills will increase premiums. tion will also raise premiums between We must do more. We must help And also, by not outreaching to more 5.7 and 6.5 percent next year. those who are falling further and fur- people and low-risk individuals to Earlier this month, President Trump ther behind while this Congress buries come into the insurance pool, they are announced yet another sabotage: that us in debt. also increasing the premiums for ev- he will not make the $10.4 billion in Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of erybody else. risk adjustment payments, which will my time. But rather than making healthcare also increase premiums. These risk ad- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield more affordable for all middle class justment payments protect consumers myself such time as I may consume. families, this Congress is focusing on by ensuring insurance companies don’t Mr. Speaker, once again, I want to making healthcare more affordable for cherry-pick between the healthy and draw attention to an opinion article in the wealthy few. the sick. today’s Wall Street Journal. The title Instead of protecting the 130 million It was very telling last week when of the article is ‘‘TrumpCare Beats Americans with preexisting conditions, the Ways and Means Committee chair- ObamaCare,’’ July 23, 2018, penned by this Congress is sitting idly by as this man said that GOP lawmakers were ex- James Freeman. administration once again allows in- ploring a possible legislative fix to re- ‘‘By prioritizing economic growth surance companies to sell junk plans start the risk adjustment payments and reducing the tax and regulatory that don’t even cover basic healthcare that President Trump abruptly sus- burdens on U.S. business, Mr. Trump services.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:40 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.028 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7103 At a time when we should be stabi- are going to have to pay more out of My premium certainly wasn’t lower, lizing premiums by supporting risk-ad- pocket. but that deductible was something un- justment transfers and ACA enroll- So, therefore, we must focus and sta- like anything I had ever seen. I went ment outreach, the majority is refus- bilize the health insurance market; we from a $3,500 deductible in my old ing to act, simply ignoring the antici- must lower insurance costs by increas- health savings account with what then- pated 18 percent increase in premiums ing enrollees into the insurance mar- President Obama said was a junk insur- for hardworking Americans throughout ket by low-risk individuals; we must ance policy. I went from a $3,500 pre- our country because, rather than help protect essential coverage and protect mium to a $6,800 premium for just an the American people, the majority people with preexisting illness; and we individual. This is not a family policy, would rather sabotage the Affordable must lower drug prices and the cost of just for an individual. Care Act for their own political gain. overall care. Now, let me tell you something, Mr. This is wrong. So I offer the majority I urge all my colleagues to make the Speaker. Someone wakes up at 3 in the and all the Members of the House this right choice—the only choice—that morning with a kidney stone, the worst choice: Members can support the pre- supports the American people, in this pain they have ever had in their life. vious question, ignore the people who case, the out-of-pocket costs. They go to the emergency room basi- will be priced out of healthcare, and ig- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cally to get a shot of morphine and an nore all the politically motivated ac- time of the gentleman has expired. appointment with a urologist the next tions by this administration to under- Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I yield day and hopefully pass the darn thing. mine access to affordable healthcare in the gentleman from California an addi- That exercise can cost in excess of our Nation; or Members can defeat the tional 30 seconds. $4,000. If you have a $6,800 deductible, previous question so that we can bring Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I urge Mem- guess what. That is all on you. Your up my bill, H.R. 6479, the Stop Junk bers to defeat the previous question. I coverage is meaningless at that point. Health Plans Act, which will lower urge Members to do the right thing, to And at the same time, you are having costs and will ensure that Americans think strategically, and to think about to pay a very expensive premium for continue to have access to high-qual- the overall out-of-pocket costs. coverage that is not there when you ity, affordable health plans. It is that Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield need it. simple. myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I was serving in the I am not an expert on this, Mr. You see, in general, there are three Speaker, but I would call that junk in- out-of-pocket or more than three out- United States House of Representatives when the congressional Democrats surance. That is what then-President of-pocket costs; in fact, one is the pre- Obama and the Congressional Demo- miums, two is the deductibles, three is passed the Affordable Care Act. I was serving in the House of Representatives crats brought us with the passage of the co-pays, and four is the out-of- the so-called Affordable Care Act. I pocket costs Americans will have to when the implementation of ObamaCare happened at the end of cal- would far rather go back to those days pay if their health insurance doesn’t before. cover those specific services. endar year 2013. So only focusing on premiums is a I have got to tell you something. The Most people don’t understand why it message deception. You see, with junk President told me I had a junk insur- is they have less coverage now and it plans, that will increase out-of-pocket ance plan. I was covered by a health costs them more money. Yeah, they costs for patients because these junk savings account in those years. Then- heard the argument, if you like your plans may offer Americans a less ex- President Obama told me I had a junk doctor, you can keep your doctor; if pensive premium; however, the insurance plan and that I was going to you like your coverage, you can keep deductibles will be too expensive. get something better. your coverage. They recognize that Also, if the majority goes after the I have got to tell you something. I perhaps that was political hyperbole. essential health benefits and allows in- didn’t get something better. I went But what they do not understand is: surance companies not to cover things through healthcare.gov. I bought an Why am I having to pay so much more like emergency care, mental health, or unsubsidized ObamaCare policy, the now to get so much less? prescription drugs, then they will be bronze plan. I am like any other con- Mr. Speaker, I submit that the abil- responsible for those out-of-pocket sumer. I bought on price. ity for individuals to buy health sav- costs. What is the cheapest thing I could af- ings accounts is not junk insurance. Also, if the majority does not defend ford? That was the bronze plan. The That is coverage that people can use. the protections of people with pre- premium was unbelievable. It was That is help for right now. existing illness—and insurance compa- three times what I had paid for a pre- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of nies are now able to discriminate mium before for my so-called junk in- my time. against those with diabetes, heart con- surance which I had had for years, Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I yield ditions, asthma, et cetera—then those which had covered every medical con- myself the balance of my time to close. tingency that had occurred in my fam- individuals will have to pay more over- Mr. Speaker, in the first 12 months of ily’s life for a number of years. But all out-of-pocket costs either because this administration, 3.2 million people now I have to buy this policy that the they were denied or because health in- have lost their healthcare because of premium was unbelievably high. But surance companies will be able to the sabotage of this administration. As that wasn’t the worst part, Mr. Speak- charge them an exorbitant amount of a matter of fact, last year, we had the er. The worst part was the deductible. money. highest increase in the number of unin- So this is why it is so important to Now, look, I had a health savings ac- sured since the ACA was passed. keep patient out-of-pocket costs in per- count. I bought one as soon as the old spective and not just focus on the po- medical savings accounts were allowed When the ACA was passed, I was not litical messaging tools of narrowly fo- with the passage of the Kennedy-Kasse- in Congress. I was a State legislator in cusing on premiums, because someone baum bill in, I think it was, July of California, where we embraced the can buy a low-cost premium health in- 1996. The rules got written the next ACA, where we made it work for our surance, but, again, if it doesn’t cover year. People were allowed to buy med- families, and where we reached out to mental health, prescription drugs, ical savings accounts. I bought one. I our constituents and asked: How can emergency care, or other forms of converted to a health savings account we make it better? guaranteed coverage under the Afford- in 2004. This is not the ceiling; this is the able Care Act, then they are going to I thought I knew what a high deduct- floor. have to pay that completely out of ible was. That was the whole purpose, As State representatives, we felt that pocket. after all, of having that medical sav- we had an urgency to act, to make it If the majority doesn’t protect pa- ings account and, now, health savings better and make it work for our con- tients with preexisting illness, then account. You have a higher deductible stituents. That is what we did, and that is 180 million people in this coun- so your premiums are going to be a lit- that is why the California exchange is try who have preexisting illnesses who tle bit lower. so successful.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.030 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7104 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 But that didn’t happen in other ously, the story is far from completed, scribes the vote on the previous question on States controlled by Republican legis- but the revenue generated by that in- the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the lators and Republican Governors. Un- creased growth is more than enough to consideration of the subject before the House fortunately, they chose to do the oppo- being made by the Member in charge.’’ To offset the tax cuts that were passed by defeat the previous question is to give the site, and that has hurt their constitu- this body last December. opposition a chance to decide the subject be- ents. Mr. Speaker, today’s rule allows the fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s Mr. Speaker, the bill we are consid- House to take another step in fixing ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that ering today will add another $100 bil- the problems created by the Affordable ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- lion to our national debt. That is not a Care Act and returning control of mand for the previous question passes the small thing. healthcare spending back to patients, control of the resolution to the opposition’’ When the bill comes due for this ex- where it belongs. in order to offer an amendment. On March penditure, how are we going to pay for 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- H.R. 6199, the Restoring Access to fered a rule resolution. The House defeated it? What is the plan? Where is the Medication Act of 2018, will allow those budget? Where is the fiscal conser- the previous question and a member of the Americans with health savings ac- opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, vancy here? counts to use those accounts to pay for asking who was entitled to recognition. Will the House GOP majority then go over-the-counter medications, the Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R–Illinois) said: after the least fortunate Americans by practice which existed up until the ‘‘The previous question having been refused, cutting Medicaid? Or maybe they will Democrats took away that ability in the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- go after American seniors and cut the Affordable Care Act. This is the gerald, who had asked the gentleman to yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Medicare and Social Security. right thing to do. These are the questions people will the first recognition.’’ I want to thank Representative JEN- be asking themselves when they exer- The Republican majority may say ‘‘the KINS for her leadership on this legisla- cise their American civic duty this fall. vote on the previous question is simply a tion and the Members who contributed vote on whether to proceed to an immediate Americans will have to decide: Are tril- to the package that is before us today. vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] lions in tax cuts for wealthy corpora- I urge my colleagues to support today’s has no substantive legislative or policy im- tions worth it to me if it means that I plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what can’t go to the doctor? rule and support the underlying bills. The material previously referred to they have always said. Listen to the Repub- That is why we have to offer real so- lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative lutions, and we can start by paying for by Mrs. TORRES is as follows: Process in the United States House of Rep- these bills today. AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 1012 OFFERED BY resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to MS. TORRES how the Republicans describe the previous oppose the previous question and the At the end of the resolution, add the fol- question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- rule because we owe it to our future lowing new sections: though it is generally not possible to amend generations who will have to answer SEC. 7. Immediately upon adoption of this the rule because the majority Member con- resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant to trolling the time will not yield for the pur- for our actions here today. pose of offering an amendment, the same re- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- of my time. House on the state of the Union for consider- vious question on the rule.... When the Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield ation of the bill (H.R. 6479) to amend title motion for the previous question is defeated, myself the balance of my time. XXVII of the Public Health Service Act to control of the time passes to the Member First off, Mr. Speaker, let me ref- include short-term limited duration plans in who led the opposition to ordering the pre- erence an article from the Investor’s the definition of individual health insurance vious question. That Member, because he Business Daily from April 10 of this coverage. The first reading of the bill shall then controls the time, may offer an amend- year. I am quoting Investor’s Business be dispensed with. All points of order against ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of Daily: consideration of the bill are waived. General amendment.’’ ‘‘When the Congressional Budget Of- debate shall be confined to the bill and shall In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House not exceed one hour equally divided and con- of Representatives, the subchapter fice released its updated budget fore- titled‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a cast, everyone focused on the deficit trolled by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Energy and refusal to order the previous question on number. But buried in the report was Commerce. After general debate the bill such a rule [a special rule reported from the the Congressional Budget Office’s tacit shall be considered for amendment under the Committee on Rules] opens the resolution to admission that it vastly overestimated five-minute rule. All points of order against amendment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, the cost of the Trump tax cuts because provisions in the bill are waived. At the con- section 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon it didn’t account for the strong eco- clusion of consideration of the bill for rejection of the motion for the previous nomic growth they would generate. amendment the Committee shall rise and re- question on a resolution reported from the ‘‘Among the many details in the re- port the bill to the House with such amend- Committee on Rules, control shifts to the port, the one reporters focused on was ments as may have been adopted. The pre- Member leading the opposition to the pre- vious question shall be considered as ordered vious question, who may offer a proper the Congressional Budget Office’s fore- amendment or motion and who controls the cast that the Federal deficit would top on the bill and amendments thereto to final passage without intervening motion except time for debate thereon.’’ $1 trillion in 2020. . . .’’ one motion to recommit with or without in- Clearly, the vote on the previous question Most of the news accounts blame the structions. If the Committee of the Whole on a rule does have substantive policy impli- tax cuts. rises and reports that it has come to no reso- cations. It is one of the only available tools I am continuing to quote here: lution on the bill, then on the next legisla- for those who oppose the Republican major- ‘‘But there’s more to the story that tive day the House shall, immediately after ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- the media overlooked. the third daily order of business under clause native views the opportunity to offer an al- ‘‘First, the CBO revised its economic 1 of rule XIV, resolve into the Committee of ternative plan. forecast sharply upward this year and the Whole for further consideration of the Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield next. bill. back the balance of my time, and I ‘‘Last June, the CBO said GDP SEC. 8. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not move the previous question on the res- growth for 2018 would be just 2 percent. apply to the consideration of H.R. 6479. olution. Now it figures growth will be 3.3 per- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cent’’—this was last April, Mr. Speak- THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT question is on ordering the previous IT REALLY MEANS er; I suspect it is probably going to be question. higher at the end of this quarter—‘‘a This vote, the vote on whether to order the The question was taken; and the previous question on a special rule, is not Speaker pro tempore announced that significant upward revision. It also merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- boosted its forecast for 2019 from a dering the previous question is a vote the ayes appeared to have it. meager 1.5 percent to a respectable 2.4 against the Republican majority agenda and Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, on that I percent.’’ a vote to allow the Democratic minority to demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. b 1345 offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about what the House should be debating. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. Speaker, the tax cuts are work- Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, ing to boost economic growth. Obvi- House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- this 15-minute vote on ordering the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:40 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.031 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7105 previous question on House Resolution Beyer Gonzalez (TX) Norcross [Roll No. 369] Bishop (GA) Gottheimer O’Halleran 1012 will be followed by 5-minutes votes Blumenauer Green, Al O’Rourke AYES—229 on: Blunt Rochester Green, Gene Pallone Abraham Gottheimer Palazzo Adoption of House Resolution 1012, if Bonamici Grijalva Panetta Aderholt Gowdy Palmer ordered; Boyle, Brendan Gutie´rrez Pascrell Allen Granger Paulsen F. Hastings Payne Amash Graves (GA) Pearce Ordering the previous question on Brady (PA) Heck Pelosi Amodei Graves (LA) Perry House Resolution 1011; and Brown (MD) Higgins (NY) Perlmutter Arrington Griffith Pittenger Brownley (CA) Adoption of House Resolution 1011, if Himes Peters Babin Grothman Poe (TX) Bustos Hoyer Peterson Bacon Guthrie Poliquin ordered. Butterfield Huffman Pingree Banks (IN) Handel Posey The vote was taken by electronic de- Capuano Jackson Lee Pocan Barletta Harper Ratcliffe vice, and there were—yeas 224, nays Carbajal Jayapal Polis Barr Harris Reed Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Quigley Barton Hensarling Reichert 184, not voting 20, as follows: Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Raskin Bergman Herrera Beutler Renacci [Roll No. 368] Cartwright Kaptur Rice (NY) Biggs Hice, Jody B. Rice (SC) Castor (FL) Keating Richmond Bilirakis Higgins (LA) Roby YEAS—224 Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Rosen Bishop (MI) Hill Roe (TN) Chu, Judy Kennedy Roybal-Allard Abraham Goodlatte Palazzo Bishop (UT) Holding Rogers (AL) Cicilline Khanna Ruiz Aderholt Gosar Palmer Blum Hollingsworth Rogers (KY) Clark (MA) Kihuen Ruppersberger Allen Gowdy Paulsen Bost Hudson Rohrabacher Clarke (NY) Kildee Rush Amash Granger Pearce Brady (TX) Huizenga Rooney, Francis Clay Kilmer Ryan (OH) Amodei Graves (GA) Brat Hultgren Rooney, Thomas Perry Cleaver Kind Sa´ nchez Arrington Graves (LA) Brooks (AL) Hunter J. Pittenger Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Sarbanes Babin Griffith Brooks (IN) Hurd Ros-Lehtinen Poe (TX) Cohen Kuster (NH) Schakowsky Bacon Grothman Buchanan Issa Roskam Poliquin Connolly Lamb Schiff Banks (IN) Guthrie Buck Jenkins (KS) Ross Posey Cooper Langevin Schneider Barletta Handel Bucshon Jenkins (WV) Rothfus Ratcliffe Correa Larsen (WA) Schrader Barr Harper Budd Johnson (LA) Rouzer Reed Costa Larson (CT) Scott (VA) Barton Harris Burgess Johnson (OH) Royce (CA) Reichert Courtney Lawrence Scott, David Bergman Hensarling Byrne Johnson, Sam Russell Renacci Crist Lawson (FL) Serrano Biggs Herrera Beutler Calvert Jones Rutherford Rice (SC) Crowley Lee Sewell (AL) Bilirakis Hice, Jody B. Carter (GA) Jordan Sanford Roby Cuellar Levin Shea-Porter Bishop (MI) Higgins (LA) Carter (TX) Joyce (OH) Scalise Roe (TN) Cummings Lewis (GA) Sherman Bishop (UT) Hill Chabot Katko Schneider Rogers (AL) Davis (CA) Lieu, Ted Sinema Blum Holding Cheney Kelly (MS) Schweikert Rogers (KY) Davis, Danny Loebsack Sires Bost Hollingsworth Cloud Kelly (PA) Scott, Austin Rohrabacher DeFazio Lofgren Smith (WA) Brady (TX) Hudson Coffman King (NY) Sensenbrenner Rooney, Francis DeGette Lowenthal Soto Brat Huizenga Cole Kinzinger Sessions Delaney Lowey Suozzi Brooks (AL) Hultgren Rooney, Thomas Collins (GA) Knight Shimkus DeLauro Lujan Grisham, Swalwell (CA) Brooks (IN) Hunter J. Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Shuster DelBene M. Takano Buchanan Hurd Ros-Lehtinen Comer Labrador Simpson Demings Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (CA) Buck Issa Roskam Comstock LaHood Sinema DeSaulnier Lynch Thompson (MS) Bucshon Jenkins (KS) Ross Conaway LaMalfa Smith (NE) Deutch Maloney, Titus Budd Jenkins (WV) Rothfus Cook Lamb Smith (NJ) Dingell Carolyn B. Tonko Burgess Johnson (LA) Rouzer Costello (PA) Lamborn Smith (TX) Doggett Maloney, Sean Torres Byrne Johnson (OH) Royce (CA) Cramer Lance Smucker Doyle, Michael Matsui Tsongas Calvert Johnson, Sam Russell Crawford Latta Stefanik F. McCollum Vargas Carter (GA) Jones Rutherford Culberson Lesko Stewart Engel McEachin Veasey Carter (TX) Jordan Sanford Curbelo (FL) Lewis (MN) Stivers Espaillat McGovern Vela Chabot Joyce (OH) Scalise Curtis LoBiondo Suozzi Esty (CT) McNerney Vela´ zquez Cheney Katko Schweikert Davidson Loudermilk Taylor Evans Meeks Visclosky Cloud Kelly (MS) Scott, Austin Davis, Rodney Love Tenney Foster Meng Wasserman Coffman Kelly (PA) Sensenbrenner Denham Lucas Thompson (PA) Frankel (FL) Moulton Schultz Cole King (NY) Sessions DeSantis Luetkemeyer Thornberry Fudge Murphy (FL) Waters, Maxine Collins (GA) Kinzinger Shimkus DesJarlais MacArthur Tipton Gabbard Nadler Watson Coleman Collins (NY) Knight Shuster Donovan Marchant Trott Gallego Napolitano Welch Comer Kustoff (TN) Simpson Duffy Marino Turner Garamendi Neal Wilson (FL) Comstock Labrador Smith (NE) Duncan (SC) Marshall Upton Gomez Nolan Yarmuth Conaway LaHood Smith (NJ) Duncan (TN) Massie Valadao Cook LaMalfa Smith (TX) NOT VOTING—20 Dunn Mast Wagner Costello (PA) Lamborn Emmer McCarthy Walberg Smucker Black Jeffries Price (NC) Cramer Lance Stefanik Estes (KS) McCaul Walden Blackburn King (IA) Rokita Crawford Latta Stewart Faso McClintock Walker Ellison Lipinski Smith (MO) Ferguson McHenry Culberson Lesko Stivers Walorski Eshoo Long Speier Fitzpatrick McKinley Walters, Mimi Curbelo (FL) Lewis (MN) Taylor Graves (MO) Messer Walz Fleischmann McMorris Weber (TX) Curtis LoBiondo Tenney Hanabusa Moore Yoder Flores Rodgers Webster (FL) Davidson Loudermilk Thompson (PA) Hartzler Noem Fortenberry McSally Wenstrup Davis, Rodney Love Thornberry Foxx Meadows Westerman Denham Lucas Tipton b 1412 DeSantis Luetkemeyer Frelinghuysen Mitchell Williams Trott DesJarlais MacArthur So the previous question was ordered. Gaetz Moolenaar Wilson (SC) Turner Diaz-Balart Marchant Gallagher Mooney (WV) Wittman Upton The result of the vote was announced Donovan Marino Garrett Mullin Womack Valadao as above recorded. Duffy Marshall Gianforte Murphy (FL) Woodall Wagner Duncan (SC) Massie Stated against: Gibbs Newhouse Yoho Duncan (TN) Mast Walberg Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to Gohmert Norman Young (AK) Dunn McCarthy Walden Goodlatte Nunes Young (IA) Walker be present during rollcall vote No. 368 on July Emmer McCaul 24, 2018. Had I been present, on rollcall vote Gosar Olson Zeldin Estes (KS) McClintock Walorski Faso McHenry Walters, Mimi No. 368, I would have voted ‘‘no.’’ NOES—179 Weber (TX) Ferguson McKinley The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Adams Butterfield Cooper Webster (FL) Fitzpatrick McMorris question is on the resolution. Aguilar Capuano Correa Wenstrup Fleischmann Rodgers The question was taken; and the Barraga´ n Carbajal Costa Westerman Flores McSally Speaker pro tempore announced that Bass Ca´ rdenas Courtney Fortenberry Meadows Williams Beatty Carson (IN) Crist Foxx Mitchell Wilson (SC) the ayes appeared to have it. Bera Cartwright Crowley Frelinghuysen Moolenaar Wittman RECORDED VOTE Beyer Castor (FL) Cuellar Gaetz Mooney (WV) Womack Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I de- Bishop (GA) Castro (TX) Cummings Gallagher Mullin Woodall Blumenauer Chu, Judy Davis (CA) Garrett Newhouse Yoho mand a recorded vote. Blunt Rochester Cicilline Davis, Danny Gianforte Norman Young (AK) A recorded vote was ordered. Bonamici Clark (MA) DeFazio Gibbs Nunes Young (IA) The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Boyle, Brendan Clarke (NY) DeGette Gohmert Olson Zeldin 5-minute vote. F. Clay Delaney The vote was taken by electronic de- Brady (PA) Cleaver DeLauro NAYS—184 Brown (MD) Clyburn DelBene Adams Barraga´ n Beatty vice, and there were—ayes 229, noes 179, Brownley (CA) Cohen Demings Aguilar Bass Bera not voting 20, as follows: Bustos Connolly DeSaulnier

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.035 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Deutch Larsen (WA) Quigley PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Massie Renacci Stefanik Dingell Larson (CT) Raskin OF H.R. 184, PROTECT MEDICAL Mast Rice (SC) Stewart Doggett Lawrence Rice (NY) McCarthy Roby Stivers Doyle, Michael Lawson (FL) Richmond INNOVATION ACT OF 2017, AND McCaul Roe (TN) Taylor F. Lee Rosen PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION McClintock Rogers (AL) Tenney Engel Levin Roybal-Allard OF H.R. 6311, INCREASING AC- McHenry Rogers (KY) Thompson (PA) Eshoo Lewis (GA) Ruiz CESS TO LOWER PREMIUM McKinley Rohrabacher Thornberry Espaillat Lieu, Ted Rush McMorris Rooney, Francis Tipton Esty (CT) Loebsack Ryan (OH) PLANS AND EXPANDING HEALTH Rodgers Rooney, Thomas Trott Evans Lofgren Sa´ nchez SAVINGS ACCOUNTS ACT OF 2018 McSally J. Turner Meadows Ros-Lehtinen Foster Lowenthal Sarbanes The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Upton Frankel (FL) Lowey Schakowsky Mitchell Roskam Valadao Fudge Lujan Grisham, Schiff objection, 5-minute voting will con- Moolenaar Ross Wagner Gabbard M. Schrader tinue. Mooney (WV) Rothfus Walberg Gallego Luja´ n, Ben Ray Scott (VA) There was no objection. Mullin Rouzer Walden Newhouse Royce (CA) Walker Garamendi Lynch Scott, David The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Gomez Maloney, Serrano Norman Russell Walorski Gonzalez (TX) Carolyn B. Sewell (AL) finished business is the vote on order- Nunes Rutherford Walters, Mimi Green, Al Maloney, Sean Shea-Porter ing the previous question on the reso- Olson Sanford Weber (TX) Green, Gene Matsui Sherman lution (H. Res. 1011) providing for con- Palazzo Scalise Webster (FL) Palmer Schweikert Wenstrup Grijalva McCollum Sires sideration of the bill (H.R. 184) to Gutie´rrez McEachin Smith (WA) Paulsen Scott, Austin Westerman Hastings McGovern Soto amend the Internal Revenue Code of Pearce Sensenbrenner Williams Perry Sessions Wilson (SC) Heck McNerney Swalwell (CA) 1986 to repeal the excise tax on medical Pittenger Shimkus Wittman Higgins (NY) Meeks Takano devices, and providing for consider- Poe (TX) Shuster Womack Himes Meng Thompson (CA) ation of the bill (H.R. 6311) to amend Poliquin Simpson Woodall Hoyer Moulton Thompson (MS) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and Posey Smith (NE) Yoho Huffman Nadler Titus Ratcliffe Smith (NJ) Young (AK) Jackson Lee Napolitano Tonko the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to modify the definition of Reed Smith (TX) Young (IA) Jayapal Neal Torres Reichert Smucker Zeldin Jeffries Nolan Tsongas qualified health plan for purposes of Johnson (GA) Norcross Vargas the health insurance premium tax NAYS—188 Johnson, E. B. O’Halleran Veasey credit and to allow individuals pur- Kaptur O’Rourke Vela Adams Gallego Neal Keating Pallone Vela´ zquez chasing health insurance in the indi- Aguilar Garamendi Nolan Kelly (IL) Panetta Visclosky vidual market to purchase a lower pre- Barraga´ n Gomez Norcross Kennedy Pascrell Wasserman mium copper plan, on which the yeas Bass Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran Khanna Payne Schultz Beatty Gottheimer O’Rourke and nays were ordered. Bera Green, Al Kihuen Pelosi Waters, Maxine Pallone Beyer Green, Gene Kildee Perlmutter Watson Coleman The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Panetta Bishop (GA) Grijalva Kilmer Peters Welch tion. Pascrell Blumenauer Gutie´rrez Kind Peterson Wilson (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Payne Blunt Rochester Hastings Pelosi Krishnamoorthi Pingree Yarmuth Bonamici Heck question is on ordering the previous Perlmutter Kuster (NH) Pocan Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) question. Peters Langevin Polis F. Himes Peterson This is a 5-minute vote. Brady (PA) Hoyer Pingree NOT VOTING—20 The vote was taken by electronic de- Brown (MD) Huffman Brownley (CA) Jackson Lee Pocan Black King (IA) Rokita vice, and there were—yeas 223, nays Bustos Jayapal Polis Blackburn Lipinski Ruppersberger 188, not voting 17, as follows: Butterfield Jeffries Quigley Diaz-Balart Long Smith (MO) [Roll No. 370] Capuano Johnson (GA) Raskin Ellison Messer Speier Carbajal Johnson, E. B. Rice (NY) Graves (MO) Moore Walz YEAS—223 Ca´ rdenas Jones Richmond Hanabusa Noem Yoder Abraham Cramer Hensarling Carson (IN) Kaptur Rosen Hartzler Price (NC) Aderholt Crawford Herrera Beutler Cartwright Keating Roybal-Allard Allen Culberson Hice, Jody B. Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Ruiz ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Amash Curbelo (FL) Higgins (LA) Castro (TX) Kennedy Ruppersberger Amodei Curtis Hill Chu, Judy Khanna Rush The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Arrington Davidson Holding Cicilline Kihuen Ryan (OH) the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Babin Davis, Rodney Hollingsworth Clark (MA) Kildee Sa´ nchez Bacon Denham Hudson Clarke (NY) Kilmer Sarbanes ing. Banks (IN) DeSantis Huizenga Clay Kind Schakowsky Barletta DesJarlais Hultgren Cleaver Krishnamoorthi Schiff b 1420 Barr Diaz-Balart Hunter Clyburn Kuster (NH) Schneider Barton Donovan Hurd Cohen Lamb Schrader Bergman Duffy Issa Connolly Langevin Scott (VA) So the resolution was agreed to. Biggs Duncan (SC) Jenkins (KS) Cooper Larsen (WA) Scott, David The result of the vote was announced Bilirakis Duncan (TN) Jenkins (WV) Correa Larson (CT) Serrano Bishop (MI) Dunn Johnson (LA) Costa Lawrence Sewell (AL) as above recorded. Bishop (UT) Emmer Johnson (OH) Courtney Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter A motion to reconsider was laid on Blum Estes (KS) Johnson, Sam Crist Lee Sherman Bost Faso Jordan Crowley Levin Sinema the table. Brady (TX) Ferguson Joyce (OH) Cuellar Lewis (GA) Sires Brat Fitzpatrick Katko Cummings Lieu, Ted Smith (WA) Brooks (AL) Fleischmann Kelly (MS) Davis (CA) Lipinski Soto f Brooks (IN) Flores Kelly (PA) Davis, Danny Loebsack Suozzi Buchanan Fortenberry King (NY) DeFazio Lofgren Swalwell (CA) Buck Foxx Kinzinger DeGette Lowenthal Takano MOMENT OF SILENCE IN MEMORY Bucshon Frelinghuysen Knight Delaney Lowey Thompson (CA) OF OFFICER JACOB J. CHESTNUT Budd Gaetz Kustoff (TN) DeLauro Lujan Grisham, Thompson (MS) AND DETECTIVE JOHN M. GIB- Burgess Gallagher Labrador DelBene M. Byrne Garrett LaHood Demings Luja´ n, Ben Ray Titus SON Calvert Gianforte LaMalfa DeSaulnier Lynch Tonko Carter (GA) Gibbs Lamborn Deutch Maloney, Torres The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Carter (TX) Gohmert Lance Dingell Carolyn B. Tsongas Chair asks that the House now observe Chabot Goodlatte Latta Doggett Maloney, Sean Vargas Cheney Gosar Lesko Doyle, Michael Matsui Veasey a moment of silence in memory of Offi- Cloud Gowdy Lewis (MN) F. McCollum Vela cer Jacob J. Chestnut and Detective Coffman Granger LoBiondo Engel McEachin Vela´ zquez John M. Gibson of the United States Cole Graves (GA) Loudermilk Eshoo McGovern Visclosky Collins (GA) Graves (LA) Love Espaillat McNerney Wasserman Capitol Police who were killed in the Collins (NY) Griffith Lucas Esty (CT) Meeks Schultz line of duty defending the Capitol on Comer Grothman Luetkemeyer Evans Meng Waters, Maxine Comstock Guthrie MacArthur Foster Moulton Watson Coleman July 24, 1998. Conaway Handel Marchant Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Welch Cook Harper Marino Fudge Nadler Wilson (FL) Costello (PA) Harris Marshall Gabbard Napolitano Yarmuth

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.002 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7107 NOT VOTING—17 Ros-Lehtinen Smith (NE) Walden b 1436 Roskam Smith (NJ) Walker Black King (IA) Rokita Ross Smith (TX) Walorski So the resolution was agreed to. Blackburn Long Smith (MO) Rothfus Smucker Ellison Messer Walters, Mimi The result of the vote was announced Speier Rouzer Stefanik Graves (MO) Moore Weber (TX) Walz Royce (CA) Stewart as above recorded. Hanabusa Noem Webster (FL) Yoder Russell Stivers A motion to reconsider was laid on Hartzler Price (NC) Wenstrup Rutherford Taylor Westerman the table. Sanford Tenney ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Williams Scalise Thompson (PA) PERSONAL EXPLANATION Wilson (SC) The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Schweikert Thornberry Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I was un- Wittman the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Scott, Austin Tipton able to vote on July 24, 2018, due to delayed ing. Sensenbrenner Trott Womack Sessions Turner Woodall travel on account of inclement weather. Had I Shimkus Upton Yoho been present, I would have voted as follows: b 1429 Shuster Valadao Young (AK) ‘‘Yes’’ on rollcall No. 368, ‘‘Yes’’ on rollcall No. Simpson Wagner Young (IA) 369, ‘‘Yes’’ on rollcall No. 370, and ‘‘Yes’’ on So the previous question was ordered. Sinema Walberg Zeldin The result of the vote was announced rollcall No. 371. as above recorded. NOES—184 f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Adams Fudge Napolitano question is on the resolution. Aguilar Gabbard Neal MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE The question was taken; and the Barraga´ n Gallego Nolan Bass Garamendi Norcross A message from the Senate by Ms. Speaker pro tempore announced that Beatty Gomez O’Halleran Byrd, one of its clerks, announced that the ayes appeared to have it. Bera Gonzalez (TX) O’Rourke the Senate has passed with amend- Beyer Gottheimer Pallone RECORDED VOTE Bishop (GA) Green, Al Panetta ments in which the concurrence of the Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I de- Blumenauer Green, Gene Pascrell House is requested, bills of the House mand a recorded vote. Blunt Rochester Grijalva Payne of the following titles: A recorded vote was ordered. Bonamici Gutie´rrez Pelosi Boyle, Brendan Hastings Perlmutter H.R. 589. An act to establish Department of The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a F. Heck Peters Energy policy for science and energy re- 5-minute vote. Brady (PA) Higgins (NY) Peterson search and development programs, and re- The vote was taken by electronic de- Brown (MD) Himes Pingree form National Laboratory management and Brownley (CA) Hoyer Pocan technology transfer programs, and for other vice, and there were—ayes 225, noes 184, Bustos Huffman Polis not voting 19, as follows: purposes. Butterfield Jackson Lee Quigley H.R. 2353. An act to reauthorize the Carl D. [Roll No. 371] Capuano Jayapal Raskin Carbajal Jeffries Rice (NY) Perkins Career and Technical Education Act AYES—225 Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Richmond of 2006. Abraham Duncan (TN) Labrador Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Rosen The message also announced that the Aderholt Dunn LaHood Cartwright Kaptur Roybal-Allard Allen Emmer LaMalfa Castor (FL) Keating Ruiz Senate has passed a bill of the fol- Amash Estes (KS) Lamb Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Ruppersberger lowing title in which the concurrence Amodei Faso Lamborn Chu, Judy Kennedy Rush of the House is requested: Cicilline Khanna Ryan (OH) Arrington Ferguson Lance S. 2503. An act to establish Department of Babin Fitzpatrick Latta Clark (MA) Kihuen Sa´ nchez Bacon Fleischmann Lesko Clarke (NY) Kildee Sarbanes Energy policy for science and energy re- Banks (IN) Flores Lewis (MN) Clay Kilmer Schakowsky search and development programs, and re- Barletta Fortenberry LoBiondo Cleaver Kind Schiff form National Laboratory management and Barr Foxx Loudermilk Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Schneider technology transfer programs, and for other Barton Frelinghuysen Love Cohen Kuster (NH) Schrader purposes. Bergman Gaetz Lucas Connolly Langevin Scott (VA) Biggs Gallagher Luetkemeyer Cooper Larsen (WA) Scott, David f Bilirakis Garrett MacArthur Correa Larson (CT) Serrano Bishop (MI) Gianforte Marchant Costa Lawrence Sewell (AL) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Bishop (UT) Gibbs Marino Courtney Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter PRO TEMPORE Blum Gohmert Marshall Crist Lee Sherman Bost Goodlatte Massie Crowley Lewis (GA) Sires The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Brady (TX) Gosar Mast Cuellar Lieu, Ted Smith (WA) ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair Brat Gowdy McCarthy Cummings Lipinski Soto Brooks (AL) Granger McCaul Davis (CA) Loebsack Suozzi will postpone further proceedings Brooks (IN) Graves (GA) McClintock Davis, Danny Lofgren Swalwell (CA) today on motions to suspend the rules Buchanan Graves (LA) McHenry DeFazio Lowenthal Takano on which a recorded vote or the yeas Buck Griffith McKinley DeGette Lowey Thompson (CA) Bucshon Grothman McMorris Delaney Lujan Grisham, Thompson (MS) and nays are ordered, or votes objected Budd Guthrie Rodgers DeLauro M. Titus to under clause 6 of rule XX. Burgess Handel McSally DelBene Luja´ n, Ben Ray Tonko The House will resume proceedings Byrne Harper Meadows Demings Lynch Torres on postponed questions at a later time. Calvert Harris Mitchell DeSaulnier Maloney, Tsongas Carter (GA) Hensarling Moolenaar Deutch Carolyn B. Vargas f Carter (TX) Herrera Beutler Mooney (WV) Dingell Maloney, Sean Veasey Chabot Hice, Jody B. Mullin Doggett Matsui Vela EQUITABLE ACCESS TO CARE AND Cheney Higgins (LA) Newhouse Doyle, Michael McCollum Vela´ zquez Cloud Hill Norman F. McEachin Visclosky HEALTH ACT Coffman Holding Nunes Engel McGovern Wasserman Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I move Cole Hollingsworth Olson Eshoo McNerney Schultz Collins (GA) Hudson Palazzo Espaillat Meeks Waters, Maxine to suspend the rules and pass the bill Collins (NY) Huizenga Palmer Esty (CT) Meng Watson Coleman (H.R. 1201) to amend section 5000A of Comer Hultgren Paulsen Evans Moulton Welch the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to Comstock Hunter Pearce Foster Murphy (FL) Wilson (FL) Conaway Hurd Perry Frankel (FL) Nadler Yarmuth provide an additional religious exemp- Cook Issa Pittenger tion from the individual health cov- Costello (PA) Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) NOT VOTING—19 erage mandate, and for other purposes, Cramer Jenkins (WV) Poliquin Black Levin Rokita as amended. Crawford Johnson (LA) Posey Blackburn Long Smith (MO) Culberson Johnson (OH) Reed The Clerk read the title of the bill. Ellison Messer Speier Curbelo (FL) Johnson, Sam Reichert The text of the bill is as follows: Graves (MO) Moore Walz Curtis Jones Renacci Hanabusa Noem H.R. 1201 Davidson Jordan Rice (SC) Yoder Hartzler Price (NC) Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Davis, Rodney Joyce (OH) Roby King (IA) Ratcliffe Denham Katko Roe (TN) resentatives of the United States of America in DeSantis Kelly (MS) Rogers (AL) Congress assembled, DesJarlais Kelly (PA) Rogers (KY) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Diaz-Balart King (NY) Rohrabacher The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Donovan Kinzinger Rooney, Francis This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Equitable Duffy Knight Rooney, Thomas the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Access to Care and Health Act’’ or the Duncan (SC) Kustoff (TN) J. ing. ‘‘EACH Act’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.003 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 SEC. 2. ADDITIONAL RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION individual mandate to those individ- I encourage my Republican col- FROM HEALTH COVERAGE RESPON- uals who rely solely on a religious leagues to bring to the floor bills that SIBILITY REQUIREMENT. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 5000A(d)(2)(A) of method of healing. Receiving medical truly address the healthcare cost crisis the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended health services, as we traditionally that middle class Americans and sen- to read as follows: think of them, is inconsistent with the iors are facing. After all, that was their ‘‘(A) RELIGIOUS CONSCIENCE EXEMPTIONS.— religious belief of Christian Scientists. promise to our constituents. ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Such term shall not in- This bill says that for people who In 2015, the President promised: clude any individual for any month if such choose not to use traditional We’re going to terminate ObamaCare. individual has in effect an exemption under healthcare or services, they are fully We’re going to terminate it, it’s going section 1311(d)(4)(H) of the Patient Protec- to be terminated. It’s going to be re- tion and Affordable Care Act which certifies exempted from the Affordable Care Act’s requirement to buy insurance. placed with something much better and that— something much less expensive for you ‘‘(I) such individual is a member of a recog- For Christian Scientists, if they nized religious sect or division thereof which bought the insurance plan, they and for the country. Republicans and the President have is described in section 1402(g)(1), and is ad- wouldn’t use it anyway. If you don’t failed to present the public with a bet- herent of established tenets or teachings of believe in something, why should the ter plan, and they have failed to drive such sect or division as described in such sec- government force you to participate. down the cost to patients. tion; or In healthcare, so many of our choices ‘‘(II) such individual is a member of a reli- As a matter of fact, their work has have been restricted because of the Af- gious sect or division thereof which is not driven costs up. The cumulative ACA described in section 1402(g)(1), who relies fordable Care Act’s domino effect sabotage by the Republican Congress solely on a religious method of healing, and across the entire healthcare sector. and the administration are adding as for whom the acceptance of medical health The EACH Act takes a step in the right much as 24 percent of healthcare pre- services would be inconsistent with the reli- direction by restoring freedom for peo- mium increases in my home State of gious beliefs of the individual. ple who had to face a dire decision of California. ‘‘(ii) SPECIAL RULES.— either violating their conscience by Now they should work with us to ‘‘(I) MEDICAL HEALTH SERVICES DEFINED.— purchasing ObamaCare or violating the For purposes of this subparagraph, the term strengthen and protect existing pro- ‘medical health services’ does not include law. This is an unfair position that the grams so that our constituents can go routine dental, vision and hearing services, law should not put them in, and I hope to the doctor when they need to or get midwifery services, vaccinations, necessary we can finally resolve this by passing surgery or a drug that their lives de- medical services provided to children, serv- the EACH Act today. pend on. As Members of Congress, this ices required by law or by a third party, and We must come together to help those is our responsibility. such other services as the Secretary of who have been hurt by this intrusion Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Health and Human Services may provide in into their lives. This bill has wide- my time. implementing section 1311(d)(4)(H) of the Pa- spread bipartisan support. In fact, the Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, the good tient Protection and Affordable Care Act. House passed a similar bill last Con- news for my friend from California is ‘‘(II) ATTESTATION REQUIRED.—Clause (i)(II) shall apply to an individual for months in a gress by voice vote. Once more, passing that tomorrow he will have an oppor- taxable year only if the information provided the EACH Act will reduce the deficit tunity to vote on bills that will lower by the individual under section 1411(b)(5)(A) by $31 million. the costs of healthcare with the health of such Act includes an attestation that the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of savings account agenda that is forth- individual has not received medical health my time. coming. services during the preceding taxable year.’’. Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 2 (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment Speaker, I yield myself such time as I minutes to the gentleman from Texas made by subsection (a) shall apply to taxable (Mr. SMITH), a longstanding advocate years beginning after December 31, 2018. may consume. (c) CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in the amend- Mr. Speaker, the House has passed on behalf of Christian Scientists, who ment made by subsection (a) shall preempt this bill before, making clarifications has tried to bring rescue to them. any State law requiring the provision of on the existing religious exemptions b 1445 medical treatment for children, especially for healthcare. I understand that reli- those who are seriously ill. gious groups have important Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- healthcare concerns that must be ROSKAM) for yielding me time, and I ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- taken seriously. linois (Mr. ROSKAM) and the gentleman I support this bill. But we should be thank another gentleman from Illinois from California (Mr. THOMPSON) each talking about issues in healthcare that (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS) for introducing this legislation. will control 20 minutes. our constituents are bringing up to us The Equitable Access to Care and The Chair recognizes the gentleman every day, like skyrocketing prescrip- Health Act is a bill that I strongly sup- from Illinois. tion drug costs, increasing premium GENERAL LEAVE port. It expands the religious con- costs, and threats to guaranteed cov- science exemption in the Affordable Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask erage for preexisting conditions, a di- unanimous consent that all Members Care Act. rect result of efforts by my Republican The bipartisan legislation has broad may have 5 legislative days in which to colleagues. revise and extend their remarks and in- support in the House and in the Senate. The Trump administration continues It has passed the House by voice vote clude extraneous material on H.R. 1201, to raise costs and reduce access to af- currently under consideration. in the last two Congresses. fordable healthcare in its never-ending The ACA currently provides for a re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there effort to sabotage the Affordable Care objection to the request of the gen- ligious conscience exemption, but the Act. exemption is unduly narrow and ap- tleman from Illinois? In just the last few weeks, the admin- There was no objection. plies only to a few faiths. This exemp- Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield istration has refused to defend protec- tion should be expanded to accommo- myself such time as I may consume. tions for Americans with preexisting date other religions whose sincerely- Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to see conditions, stopped risk adjustment held religious beliefs could cause them this bipartisan bill is getting a vote payments to health plans covering not to purchase healthcare insurance. today. sicker patients, and again slashed pay- With the recent repeal of the indi- H.R. 1201, the EACH Act, or Equi- ments to the navigators that help peo- vidual mandate, the CBO now esti- table Access to Care and Health Act, ple access healthcare insurance. These mates that the bill will result in about introduced by my colleague, Mr. ROD- and many other misguided efforts are $30 million in cost savings. I hope my NEY DAVIS from Illinois, provides com- raising the costs for those Americans colleagues will support this piece of monsense relief from ObamaCare’s who need healthcare coverage the legislation. It will help advance the mandate to purchase insurance from most. cause of religious freedom. those who object on religious grounds. We should be examining and respond- Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. This bill extends the religious con- ing to this growing threat to affordable Speaker, I yield myself such time as I science exemption from ObamaCare’s care, not ignoring it. may consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.007 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7109 I just want to mention that my the legislation does not preempt any First Amendment to the Bill of Rights, friend and committee member was half State laws requiring the provision of the first freedom that they articulated right in what he said about tomorrow’s medical treatment for children. Fur- was our freedom to worship. What you vote. We will be voting on some ther, if a parent needs to provide a nec- are hearing today is a bipartisan con- healthcare bills tomorrow, and they essary medical service to a child, doing sensus that we value that, and we rec- are bills that will help. But they will so would not invalidate the individual’s ognize the power of conscience, the help people that either have the money exemption. power of religious liberty, the power of to pay for healthcare or people who are The EACH Act, again, is truly an ex- being able to worship as one pleases. healthy, not the folks who need access ample of bipartisan legislation with That is something that Mr. DAVIS from to quality, affordable healthcare. input from stakeholders that actually Illinois is advocating today, Mr. I would be remiss if I didn’t point out made it better. I am proud to have THOMPSON is supporting as well, along that, contrary to this party’s position worked with my friend and colleague, with the longstanding work of Mr. for decades, these bills aren’t paid for, Mr. KEATING, on moving this legisla- SMITH from Texas. and they are going to add about $70 bil- tion forward. He knows this issue well. Passing this bill will give those who lion worth of costs to our national His home State of Massachusetts es- object to health insurance on religious debt. tablished a similar religious conscience grounds the ability to opt out of the I reserve the balance of my time. exemption in State law more than 10 system that they don’t want to partici- Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 years ago. pate in, in its entirety. They won’t minutes to the gentleman from Illinois I also represent Principia College, a have to face a choice between violating (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS). college for Christian Scientists in their belief and violating the law any- Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Elsah, Illinois, one that we have a few more. I urge its passage, and I yield Speaker, I thank Mr. ROSKAM for his graduates of right here in Congress, in- back the balance of my time. leadership on this issue. I also want to cluding the last speaker, Mr. LAMAR The SPEAKER pro tempore. The thank the gentleman from California SMITH. While working on this bill, I question is on the motion offered by (Mr. THOMPSON), because this bill that have heard from both students and pro- the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. ROS- we are talking about today is and has fessors from Principia on the impor- KAM) that the House suspend the rules been rife with nothing but bipartisan tance of passing this legislation and and pass the bill, H.R. 1201, as amend- support. It is issues like this that we what it would mean to their lives. ed. can work together to correct. No mat- One such student wrote: ‘‘I feel reli- The question was taken; and (two- ter what the bill is, no matter what gious liberty is such a vital part of the thirds being in the affirmative) the some of the other outlying issues of American exceptionalism that per- rules were suspended and the bill, as implementation of certain laws that meates worldly thought, and the pass- amended, was passed. may or may not affect our constituents ing of this bill will only contribute to A motion to reconsider was laid on and how they do so, but the fact that the commitment of our government to the table. preserve that right. My family has paid we are trying to fix this once and for f all, for many in this country, is a tes- excessive amounts for healthcare, NATIVE AMERICAN HEALTH tament to what good happens here in a among other expenses, that we do not SAVINGS IMPROVEMENT ACT bipartisan fashion. use due to our reliance on the Chris- I also want to thank the chairman of tian Science healing for prayer. I do Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I move the Ways and Means Committee, KEVIN not believe Christian Scientists should to suspend the rules and pass the bill BRADY, my good friend, for his contin- feel that they are being punished in (H.R. 1476) to amend the Internal Rev- ued leadership on this issue and help- some way for expressing their First enue Code of 1986 to permit individuals ing to make sure this bill comes back Amendment right.’’ eligible for Indian Health Service as- to the floor. Well, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to sistance to qualify for health savings This Congress has an opportunity to stand up here today for their First accounts, as amended. continue the bipartisanship I just Amendment right. The Clerk read the title of the bill. talked about and promote religious lib- This legislation is about as straight- The text of the bill is as follows: erty and fairness by passing the EACH forward as it gets. It is broadly bipar- H.R. 1476 Act, because the EACH Act modestly tisan, promotes religious liberty and Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- expands the religious conscience ex- fairness, and it also saves the tax- resentatives of the United States of America in emptions under the Affordable Care payers money. The Congressional Congress assembled, Act to include individuals who rely Budget Office estimated passing the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. solely on religious methods of healing. EACH Act would save taxpayers an ad- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Native American Health Savings Improvement The current religious conscience ex- ditional $31 million, if signed into law. The EACH Act passed this House in Act’’. emption under the Affordable Care Act both the 113th and 114th Congresses, SEC. 2. INDIVIDUALS ELIGIBLE FOR INDIAN exclusively applies to only a few select but, unfortunately, it was held up in HEALTH SERVICE ASSISTANCE NOT faiths. As a result, some Americans, in- DISQUALIFIED FROM HEALTH SAV- the Senate. It is time that Congress fi- cluding Christian Scientists, are re- INGS ACCOUNTS. nally passes the EACH Act out of both quired to purchase medical health in- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 223(c)(1) of the In- Chambers and sends it to the Presi- ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by surance that does not cover the dent’s desk for his signature. adding at the end the following new subpara- healthcare of their religious practice I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote. graph: and choice. They are, therefore, forced Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. ‘‘(D) SPECIAL RULE FOR INDIVIDUALS ELIGI- with the choice of violating their con- Speaker, I am prepared to close. Does BLE FOR ASSISTANCE UNDER INDIAN HEALTH science by purchasing traditional the gentleman from Illinois have fur- SERVICE PROGRAMS.—For purposes of sub- health insurance or violating the law paragraph (A)(ii), an individual shall not be ther speakers? treated as covered under a health plan de- by not complying with any individual Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I have no mandate. scribed in such subparagraph merely because further speakers. the individual receives hospital care or med- Under the EACH Act, applicants Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. ical services under a medical care program of must attest annually that they are a Speaker, I am prepared to close. I yield the Indian Health Service or of a tribal orga- member of a religious group, that they myself the balance of my time, and I nization.’’. rely solely on a religious method of thank the sponsors for their work on (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment healing, and that they have not re- this bill. I urge my colleagues on both made by this section shall apply to taxable ceived medical health services during sides of the aisle to support this bill. years beginning after December 31, 2018. the preceding taxable year. I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- This is a very important point, Mr. Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- Speaker. Additionally, with the help of myself the balance of my time. linois (Mr. ROSKAM) and the gentleman input from the American Academy of We hold conscience in this House ten- from California (Mr. THOMPSON) each Pediatrics, the bill makes it clear that derly. Our Founders were wise. In the will control 20 minutes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.045 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7110 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 The Chair recognizes the gentleman I support this bill. We should be talk- to wait 3 months. They will be able to from Illinois. ing about issues in healthcare that receive treatment from Indian Health GENERAL LEAVE strengthen our healthcare system for Service doctors near them and save Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask all Americans while addressing the money in their HSAs whenever they unanimous consent that all Members issues in the Indian Health Service pro- want. may have 5 legislative days within gram, and there should be no exception This is a bipartisan, patient-centered which to revise and extend their re- to that today. solution to a government-created prob- marks and include extraneous material Given the important role IHS plays lem. providing primary care to our Native on H.R. 1476, currently under consider- b 1500 ation. American population, we should be The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there working to ensure that all participants It will benefit the Saginaw Chip- objection to the request of the gen- in IHS have access to high-quality pewas in my district as well as Tribes tleman from Illinois? care. Reports of underfunding and re- throughout Michigan and across the There was no objection. sulting substandard care need to be ad- country. It will help those who work Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield dressed, so we make sure that all indi- hard to save money and take care of myself such time as I may consume. viduals that this healthcare program their families. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to stand be- serves benefit from the congressional Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues fore you today as we consider H.R. 1476, action that we take, not just those who for their support of this legislation. the Native American Health Savings happen to have the money to put in an Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Improvement Act, a bipartisan bill in- HSA, to pay for an HSA. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of troduced by Mr. MOOLENAAR of Michi- We shouldn’t overlook the important my time. gan, that makes commonsense im- role Medicare and Medicaid play in Mr. Speaker, I thank the sponsors of provements to current rules sur- providing healthcare to these popu- this bill, and I want to give a par- rounding health savings accounts and lations. Thousands of IHS beneficiaries ticular shout-out to Congressman RAUL those who get care through the Indian are also enrolled in Medicare, Med- RUIZ, also Dr. RUIZ when he is not in Health Service. icaid, or some combination of both. Congress, for his cosponsorship of this Generally, anyone covered solely by Republicans are looking to dramati- bill and all the hard work that he has a high-deductible health plan that cally cut and undermine these critical put into this effort. meets certain requirements is allowed programs. Offering IHS enrollees a sav- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on to make tax-free contributions to a ings account won’t make up for dam- both sides of the aisle to cast an ‘‘aye’’ health savings account. But for certain age inflicted by the cuts to Medicaid or vote for this measure, and I yield back individuals who receive care through Medicare. the balance of my time. the Indian Health Service, this isn’t Instead, we should strengthen both of Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, about 22 the case. these programs and coordinate care million Americans are covered by high- Under IRS guidance, an individual with IHS to make sure individuals are deductible health plans with an HSA. who has received medical services at getting the best care possible. These are options that are increasingly an Indian Health Service facility at I reserve the balance of my time. popular across the spectrum because any time during the previous 3 months Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 they lower premiums and they are a is ineligible to make contributions to minutes to the gentleman from Michi- vehicle to save for other healthcare ex- an HSA. This practice could discourage gan (Mr. MOOLENAAR). penses. those who rely on care delivered at an Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Speaker, I think this is a good bill. It has been Indian Health Service facility from first, I want to thank Chairman BRADY well articulated this afternoon, par- participating in an HSA. This should of the House Committee on Ways and ticularly by the bill’s sponsor and by be fixed so that these enrollees can Means for his leadership of the com- Mr. THOMPSON, and I urge its passage. avail themselves to the benefits of mittee, and also Mr. ROSKAM and Mr. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Health Savings Accounts. THOMPSON for their support here on the of my time. High-deductible health plans and floor today. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. health savings accounts are critical I also want to thank Congressman JOHNSON of Louisiana). The question is components of consumer-driven RAUL RUIZ for cosponsoring this legis- on the motion offered by the gen- healthcare. Together, they empower in- lation and making it bipartisan. tleman from Illinois (Mr. ROSKAM) that dividuals and families to shop around. This legislation before us today, H.R. the House suspend the rules and pass They unleash the power of choice and 1476, will improve access to health sav- the bill, H.R. 1476, as amended. competition that are so badly needed ings accounts for Native Americans The question was taken; and (two- in healthcare to lower costs and im- who choose to receive care at Indian thirds being in the affirmative) the prove quality today. These are the ele- Health Service facilities by ending an rules were suspended and the bill, as ments we need to encourage in the sys- unnecessary penalty against them. amended, was passed. tem, if we are going to start bending Mr. Speaker, if you or I were to use A motion to reconsider was laid on the cost curve in the right direction, a health savings account, we would be the table. and if we want to lower barriers to able to immediately make a contribu- f these types of accounts and encourage tion to it the day after you receive care individuals who are otherwise eligible at a doctor’s office. There is no prohibi- WATER AND AGRICULTURE TAX not to forgo treatment at an Indian tion on making those contributions. REFORM ACT OF 2018 Health Service facility simply because However, right now, Native Ameri- Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I move of confusion over when they might be cans across the country, including my to suspend the rules and pass the bill able to resume contributing to their constituents, cannot do the same thing (H.R. 519) to amend the Internal Rev- HSA. if they receive treatment from a doctor enue Code of 1986 to facilitate water I urge my colleagues to join me in at the Indian Health Service. Instead, leasing and water transfers to promote supporting this bipartisan legislation, they are prohibited from immediately conservation and efficiency, as amend- and I reserve the balance of my time. saving the money they earned and ed. Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. must wait for 3 months before they can The Clerk read the title of the bill. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I make another contribution into the The text of the bill is as follows: may consume. personal account they use to provide H.R. 519 Mr. Speaker, the House has passed for their health and that of their fam- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- this bill before. It allows individuals el- ily. resentatives of the United States of America in igible for Indian Health Service, or This makes no sense. Instead, this Congress assembled, IHS, to participate in a health savings commonsense legislation eliminates SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. account if they are enrolled in a high- the problem. If this bill becomes law, This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Water and deductible health plan. Native Americans will no longer have Agriculture Tax Reform Act of 2018’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.048 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7111 SEC. 2. FACILITATE WATER LEASING AND WATER Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I yield ations and maintenance, including cap- TRANSFERS TO PROMOTE CON- the balance of my time to the gen- ital projects. SERVATION AND EFFICIENCY. (a) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (12) of section tleman from Arizona (Mr. As a farmer from California, I know 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is SCHWEIKERT), and I ask unanimous con- well how critical water infrastructure amended by adding at the end the following sent that he be allowed to control that improvements are to small irrigation new subparagraph: time. districts. This change will help irriga- ‘‘(J) TREATMENT OF MUTUAL DITCH IRRIGA- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion districts continue to invest in TION COMPANIES.— objection to the request of the gen- drought-resilient projects instead of re- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In the case of a mutual tleman from Illinois? lying on rate increases. ditch or irrigation company or of a like orga- There was no objection. In States like mine, both drought- nization to a mutual ditch or irrigation com- pany, subparagraph (A) shall be applied with- Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I stricken and reliant on irrigation dis- out taking into account— yield myself such time as I may con- tricts for water deliveries, infrastruc- ‘‘(I) any income received or accrued from sume. ture investment is a critical tool to the sale, lease, or exchange of fee or other in- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. help us prepare for future droughts. terests in real and personal property, includ- 519, which would provide tax-exempt But we must also ensure that Federal ing interests in water (other than income de- mutual irrigation companies with more policy changes do not create unin- rived from the sale, lease, or transfer of flexibility in respect to funding their tended consequences for water users. water to nonmembers outside the river basin operations, maintenance, and improve- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Rep- or basins within which the mutual ditch or ment of their water infrastructure, es- resentative BUCK and Chairman BRADY irrigation company operates), ‘‘(II) any income received or accrued from pecially in drought-stricken areas. for working with me to include guard- the sale or exchange of stock in a mutual Tax-exempt mutual ditch or irriga- rails in this bill that will eliminate fi- ditch or irrigation company (or in a like or- tion companies are important to rural nancial incentives to transfer water ganization to a mutual ditch or irrigation communities and to agriculture. These among regions in a way that disadvan- company) or contract rights for the delivery companies allow farmers, ranchers, and tages agricultural enterprise, impairs or use of water, or others, including water users and even water quality, or causes environmental ‘‘(III) any income received or accrued from some urban water users, to collaborate harm. This protection against poten- the investment of income described in sub- and pool resources to install and main- tial for abuse resulting from the policy clause (I) or (II), tain vital infrastructure for the deliv- changes in H.R. 519 should prevent except that any income described in sub- ery of water. undue harm to my northern California clause (I), (II), or (III) which is distributed or expended for expenses (other than for oper- To maintain their tax-exempt status, constituents. ations, maintenance, and capital improve- however, mutual ditch or irrigation Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ments) of the mutual ditch or irrigation companies must satisfy Tax Code re- my time. company or of the like organization to a mu- quirements that the bulk of their in- Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, just tual ditch or irrigation company (as the case come, which is used to fund operations sort of a quick commentary. may be) shall be treated as nonmember in- and capital improvements, must be I want to thank the gentleman from come in the year in which it is distributed or from the shareholders of these irriga- California for his input, his observa- expended. For purposes of the preceding sen- tion and water delivery districts. tions. He has been incredibly construc- tence, expenses (other than for operations, H.R. 519 allows these companies to tive and paid a lot of attention to pro- maintenance, and capital improvements) in- clude expenses for the construction of con- receive other sources of income and tecting his constituents. Those of us veyances designed to deliver water outside of still maintain their tax-exempt status. from arid areas, we care a lot about the system of the mutual ditch or irrigation The bill provides that, for the income this. company or of the like organization. from other sources to receive this pref- Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the ‘‘(ii) TREATMENT OF ORGANIZATIONAL GOV- erential tax treatment, it generally gentleman from Colorado (Mr. BUCK). ERNANCE.—In the case of a mutual ditch or must be used for operations and main- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the irrigation company or of a like organization tenance to ensure that these funds will gentleman from Arizona (Mr. to a mutual ditch or irrigation company, be reinvested in irrigation infrastruc- SCHWEIKERT) for giving me this oppor- where State law provides that such a com- pany or organization may be organized in a ture systems. tunity to speak on behalf of H.R. 519, manner that permits voting on a basis which This bill would provide mutual irri- the Water and Agriculture Tax Reform is pro rata to share ownership on corporate gation companies with more flexibility Act of 2018. governance matters, subparagraph (A) shall with respect to funding their oper- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. be applied without taking into account ations and maintaining improvements THOMPSON for his work on this and whether its member shareholders have one to their water infrastructure, espe- making sure that this is, in fact, a bi- vote on corporate governance matters per cially in the drought-stricken areas, partisan effort and a much better bill share held in the corporation. Nothing in and it will facilitate more efficient than it started out as. this clause shall be construed to create any I also want to thank Chairman inference about the requirements of this sub- water allocation in support of these section for companies or organizations not rural economies. BRADY in the Ways and Means Com- included in this clause.’’. This bill also clarifies that govern- mittee for working with me to bring (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment ance matters in regard to these mutual this bill to the floor. I introduced this made by subsection (a) shall apply to taxable ditch or irrigation companies may be bill last year, and Chairman BRADY has years beginning after December 31, 2018. arranged as permitted under the State been a good partner in assisting with The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- laws. its passage from the committee. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- This bill supports local economies, Mr. Speaker, farmers, ranchers, and linois (Mr. ROSKAM) and the gentleman promotes more efficient use of water, families, businesses, sportsmen, every- from California (Mr. THOMPSON) each helps farmers and ranchers in many one in my district relies on water for will control 20 minutes. arid areas, and actually is just much their livelihood, but in the arid prairies The Chair recognizes the gentleman fairer in how these resources are main- of the Great Plains, water is running from Illinois. tained and the ability to maintain short. Under the blistering Colorado GENERAL LEAVE these districts under the understanding Sun, poorly watered crops quickly be- Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I ask of the current Tax Code. come less productive and may die alto- unanimous consent that all Members Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of gether. have 5 legislative days within which to my time. Farmers around my district tell me revise and extend their remarks and in- Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. they are moving operations elsewhere clude extraneous material on H.R. 519, Speaker, I yield myself as much time because they don’t have access to currently under consideration. as I may consume. water or they simply can’t afford it. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. Speaker, the bill before us will Agricultural communities around the objection to the request of the gen- allow certain entities to retain their Nation will face economic crisis if tleman from Illinois? tax exemption so long as they are gen- farmers and ranchers cannot afford There was no objection. erally reinvesting that revenue in oper- water.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.008 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7112 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 H.R. 519 is a key step towards solving I have actually had a conversation be carried out using amounts otherwise author- this problem. It offers farmers and with a couple of them, one asking if ized. ranchers an affordable water supply; they had an excess water allocation The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and in doing so, it supports not only that year, could they actually sell it to ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from our agricultural communities, but ev- the local pond, the little conservation Kansas (Ms. JENKINS) and the gen- eryone in America who relies on farms reserve in our riverbed, and those tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. NEAL) and ranches for food. things; and if they did so, if that each will control 20 minutes. My bill seeks to help farmers by em- amount of money exceeded 15 percent The Chair recognizes the gentle- powering them to support each other. of their revenues, would they blow up woman from Kansas. Many farmers rely on nonprofit, mem- their tax status. GENERAL LEAVE ber-owned cooperatives to supply their In this case, this legislation would Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- water. These mutual irrigation and prevent that, but they still have to use er, I ask unanimous consent that all ditch companies give farmers owner- that money to constantly improve Members may have 5 legislative days ship in their water supply. However, their infrastructure, therefore, I be- within which to revise and extend their current IRS regulations prohibit these lieve, being more water economical. remarks and include extraneous mate- nonprofits from generating more than So this is a good thing for our com- rial on H.R. 3500, currently under con- 15 percent of their revenue from non- munities, particularly rural, particu- sideration. member sources. If they exceed this 15 larly the uniqueness of those of us in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there percent threshold, they lose their tax- the desert Southwest. objection to the request of the gentle- exempt status. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to woman from Kansas? H.R. 519 responds by removing caps vote ‘‘yes,’’ and I yield back the bal- There was no objection. on how much revenue these water com- ance of my time. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- panies can raise from nonmember The SPEAKER pro tempore. The er, I yield myself as much time as I sources, allowing them, for example, to question is on the motion offered by may consume. sell water access for recreational use or the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. ROS- Mr. Speaker, today we are taking up raise funds through crossing fees. The KAM) that the House suspend the rules H.R. 3500, the bipartisan Ensuring In- only requirement is that this revenue and pass the bill, H.R. 519, as amended. tegrity in the IRS Workforce Act. This must be reinvested in maintenance, op- The question was taken; and (two- bill seeks to provide additional safe- erations, and infrastructure improve- thirds being in the affirmative) the guards within the IRS by prohibiting ments, keeping water prices affordable rules were suspended and the bill, as the agency from rehiring any indi- for the members and upholding the amended, was passed. vidual previously employed by the IRS nonprofit ideals of the cooperative. A motion to reconsider was laid on but removed for misconduct or termi- With this financial freedom, mutual ir- the table. nated for cause. rigation and ditch companies can con- f b 1515 tinue to play a vital role in supporting ENSURING INTEGRITY IN THE IRS our Nation’s farmers. Before we talk more about this bill, I WORKFORCE ACT OF 2018 The bill also reforms the IRS treat- would like to take a moment just to ment of member voting eligibility for Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- thank the bill’s sponsor, Representa- cooperatives, protecting mutual asso- er, I move to suspend the rules and tive KRISTI NOEM from South Dakota, ciations that have complied with State pass the bill (H.R. 3500) to amend the for her tireless work on this bill. law for years. By empowering nonprofit Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to pro- Last Congress, a version of this bill mutual irrigation ditch companies to hibit the Commissioner of the Internal passed the House of Representatives raise revenue from nonmember sources, Revenue Service from rehiring any em- with overwhelming, bipartisan support. H.R. 519 will reduce the cost of water ployee of the Internal Revenue Service This Congress, we made some small for cash-strapped farmers. who was involuntarily separated from changes to the bill to address some of Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to help service for misconduct, as amended. my colleagues’ concerns and we hope our rural communities and, frankly, all The Clerk read the title of the bill. that they will continue to support the of America by passing the Water and The text of the bill is as follows: bill in its new form. We are also en- Agriculture Tax Reform Act. H.R. 3500 couraged to see its presence in the bi- Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- partisan Taxpayer First Act, intro- have no other speakers, and I reserve resentatives of the United States of America in duced by chairman and ranking mem- the balance of my time. Congress assembled, ber of the Senate Finance Committee Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. just last week. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Ensuring Integ- As we all know, IRS employees have yield myself the balance of my time. rity in the IRS Workforce Act of 2018’’. access to Americans’ most sensitive in- Mr. Speaker, I thank the sponsors of SEC. 2. PROHIBITION ON REHIRING ANY EM- formation, such as our Social Security this bill, in particular Congressman PLOYEE OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE numbers, home addresses, and how SERVICE WHO WAS INVOLUNTARILY BUCK for his good work working with SEPARATED FROM SERVICE FOR MIS- much we are paid. Given the magnitude me to ensure that we were able to take CONDUCT. of the sensitive information that the care of some concerns that we had in (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7804 of the Internal IRS holds, hiring employees of high in- the original drafting of the bill. Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at tegrity is essential to maintaining pub- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on the end the following new subsection: lic trust in tax administration and both sides of the aisle to vote for this ‘‘(d) PROHIBITION ON REHIRING EMPLOYEES IN- safeguarding taxpayer information. VOLUNTARILY SEPARATED.—The Commissioner In 2017, work by the Treasury Inspec- piece of legislation, and I yield back may not hire any individual previously em- the balance of my time. ployed by the Commissioner who was removed tor General for Tax Administration, or Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I for misconduct under this subchapter or chapter TIGTA, raised serious concerns about yield myself such time as I may con- 43 or chapter 75 of title 5, United States Code, or the IRS’s continued practice of rehir- sume for a very quick closing. whose employment was terminated under sec- ing former employees with conduct and In a previous life, I was the treasurer tion 1203 of the Internal Revenue Service Re- performance issues. The inspector gen- of Maricopa County. We had 3,300 tax- structuring and Reform Act of 1998 (26 U.S.C. eral concluded that the IRS does not ing districts in this county. A substan- 7804 note).’’. have effective hiring policies to fully tial number of those taxing districts (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made consider past employee conduct and by subsection (a) shall apply with respect to the were actually just these, irrigation and hiring of employees after the date of the enact- performance issues prior to making a water delivery. Many of them were in ment of this Act. tentative decision to rehire them. the rural parts of my county, but a lot SEC. 3. NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED. I should note that this is the second of them, you would be surprised, were No additional funds are authorized to carry such report that the inspector general actually in the suburban and even out the requirements of this Act and the amend- has published. In 2014, the inspector some in downtown Phoenix. ments made by this Act. Such requirements shall general first alerted Congress to this

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.052 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7113 issue, finding that the IRS was rehiring When we learn of situations that fall pass the bill (H.R. 6084) to amend title former employees with significant con- short of those high standards or em- VII of the Social Security Act to pro- duct or performance issues. ployees who have conducted them- vide for a single point of contact at the So what types of conduct are we selves dishonorably, though, it is criti- Social Security Administration for in- talking about here? We are talking cally important to rectify the situation dividuals who are victims of identity about IRS employees who threatened swiftly. Jobs at the IRS are positions theft, as amended. their coworkers, didn’t pay their own of great public trust, and last year the The Clerk read the title of the bill. taxes, were excessively absent, falsified Treasury Inspector General for Tax Ad- The text of the bill is as follows: employment forms, or were so deficient ministration alerted us to a practice of H.R. 6084 in their jobs that the IRS had no hiring individuals who had previously Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- choice but to terminate their employ- violated that trust. resentatives of the United States of America in ment. There were also instances where During 15 months covering parts of Congress assembled, employees accessed sensitive taxpayer 2015 and 2016, TIGTA found that the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. information without authorization to IRS hired almost 7,500 people, includ- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Improving So- do so. I think we can all agree that ing 2,000 rehires. About 10 percent of cial Security’s Service to Victims of Identity those are not the types of people that the rehired employees, who were most- Theft Act’’. the IRS should be seeking to rehire. ly seasonal workers, had been termi- SEC. 2. SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT FOR IDEN- TITY THEFT VICTIMS. While Congress has repeatedly sought nated or separated while under inves- (a) IN GENERAL.—Title VII of the Social Secu- to signal to the IRS its concern on this tigation for substantiated conduct or performance issues. Four of the more rity Act (42 U.S.C. 901 et seq.) is amended by issue through legislation such as the adding at the end the following: IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of than 200 rehired employees failed to file their own tax returns. Four were ‘‘SECTION 714. SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT FOR 1998, and the IRS Consolidated Appro- IDENTITY THEFT VICTIMS. under investigation for unauthorized priations Act of 2016, the IRS continues ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner of So- access to taxpayer information. Twen- to struggle. cial Security shall establish and implement pro- TIGTA’s most recent findings sug- ty-seven failed to disclose a prior ter- cedures to ensure that any individual whose so- mination or conviction on their appli- gest that further congressional action cial security account number has been misused cations, as required. (such as to fraudulently obtain benefits under is needed. As a result, we have before Although these hires represent but a title II, VIII, or XVI of this Act, in a manner us today a bill which will seek to guar- fraction of IRS employees overall, it is that affects an individual’s records at the Social antee that this practice does not con- important that we rectify the situation Security Administration, or in a manner that tinue. It also ensures greater integrity swiftly and prevent this from hap- prompts the individual to request a new social within the IRS’s workforce, something pening in the future. security account number) has a single point of that I think all Members of Congress So I urge my colleagues to support contact at the Social Security Administration can easily support. throughout the resolution of the individual’s H.R. 3500, and at the same time remind case. The single point of contact shall track the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of them that the outliers we are address- my time. individual’s case to completion and coordinate ing today should not diminish our re- with other units to resolve issues as quickly as Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- spect for the men and women at the possible. self such time as I may consume. IRS who serve the public with, I think, ‘‘(b) SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT.— Mr. Speaker, today’s debate reminds dignity every single day. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of subsection me of the words of Will Rogers who Mr. Speaker, let me thank those In- (a), the single point of contact shall consist of a used to say that: ‘‘The only difference ternal Revenue Service employees for team or subset of specially trained employees between death and taxes is that death their hard work. who— doesn’t get worse every time Congress Mr. Speaker, I urge our colleagues on ‘‘(A) have the ability to coordinate with other meets.’’ both sides to support this bill, and I units to resolve the issues involved in the indi- vidual’s case, and Although I concede that he had a yield back the balance of my time. ‘‘(B) shall be accountable for the case until its point during most of the past year, Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- resolution. hopefully, today will be an exception to er, I yield myself such time as I may ‘‘(2) TEAM OR SUBSET.—The employees in- the Rogers rule. That is because we are consume. cluded within the team or subset described in taking up H.R. 3500, a good bill that In closing, I would like to point out paragraph (1) may change as required to meet would prevent the IRS from rehiring that this legislation has enjoyed wide the needs of the Social Security Administration, employees who have previously been bipartisan support in the past, and for provided that procedures have been established terminated due to poor conduct or per- good reason. It is a commonsense bill to— that will help build trust with the IRS ‘‘(A) ensure continuity of records and case formance. history, and I want to say at the outset that I and integrity within our tax system. ‘‘(B) notify the individual when appro- know most, if not overwhelmingly all, I want to, again, thank my colleague priate.’’. IRS employees tend to be ethical and from South Dakota, Representative (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made diligent public servants who have, in KRISTI NOEM, for being a leader on this by subsection (a) shall take effect 180 days after recent years, been asked to do much issue and for sponsoring this bill. the date of enactment of this Act. more with much less. That is exactly Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- what the American people deserve and leagues to support H.R. 3500, and I yield ant to the rule, the gentleman from back the balance of my time. expect from them and we all appreciate Michigan (Mr. BISHOP) and the gen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The those efforts. tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. NEAL) question is on the motion offered by The IRS employees collecting our each will control 20 minutes. the gentlewoman from Kansas (Ms. Nation’s revenue enable the Federal The Chair recognizes the gentleman JENKINS) that the House suspend the Government to support veterans bene- from Michigan. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3500, as fits, pave roads, protect the environ- GENERAL LEAVE amended. ment, fund medical research, care for The question was taken; and (two- Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- needy children, and meet all of the thirds being in the affirmative) the er, I ask unanimous consent that all other needs our Federal Government rules were suspended and the bill, as Members have 5 legislative days to re- asks. This is an enormous task, and we amended, was passed. vise and extend their remarks and in- need intelligent men and women of in- A motion to reconsider was laid on clude extraneous materials on H.R. tegrity in those roles who will admin- the table. 6084, currently under consideration. ister our Tax Code in a fair, even-hand- f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ed, reasonable, and ethical manner. objection to the request of the gen- Most IRS employees meet this stand- IMPROVING SOCIAL SECURITY’S tleman from Michigan? ard with the utmost attention to their SERVICE TO VICTIMS OF IDEN- There was no objection. professional responsibilities and we TITY THEFT ACT Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- honor their contributions to the coun- Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- er, I yield myself such time as I may try. er, I move to suspend the rules and consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.055 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7114 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be here AARP, As an organization committed to rep- today and pleased that we are consid- Washington, DC, June 21, 2018. resenting mature Americans and seniors, ering this bipartisan legislation that I Hon. KEVIN BRADY, AMAC is dedicated to ensuring senior citi- introduced with a friend of mine from Chairman, House Committee on Ways and zens’ interests are protected. We applaud Means, Washington, DC. Congressman Bishop for his practical and ARSON Connecticut, Ranking Member L , Hon. RICHARD NEAL, timely solution to help identity theft vic- H.R. 6084, the Improving Social Secu- Ranking Member, House Committee on Ways tims in their most vulnerable time. AMAC is rity’s Service to Victims of Identity and Means, Washington, DC. pleased to offer our organization’s full sup- Theft Act. DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY AND RANKING MEM- port to the Improving Social Security’s BER NEAL: On behalf of AARP’s 38 million This is an issue that is important to Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act. members, we are writing in support of the Sincerely, all of us in all of our districts. As you H.R. 6084, the Improving Social Security’s DAN WEBER, well know, Mr. Speaker, identity theft Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act of President and Founder of AMAC. is a crime that is growing at very 2018. The bill directs the Social Security Ad- alarming rates around the country. ministration (SSA) to provide a single point NATIONAL COUNCIL OF SOCIAL SECU- Supporting victims of identity theft is of contact and a team of SSA staff to help RITY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATIONS, something I have long championed. As redress any problems faced by Social Secu- INC., rity ID theft victims. AARP is strongly com- Arlington, VA, July 16, 2018. a former local prosecutor and advocate mitted to protecting consumers from iden- for victims, I gained a real under- Hon. MIKE BISHOP, tity theft and supports your efforts to im- House of Representatives, standing of the plight of many Ameri- prove the assistance offered to individuals Washington, DC. cans and what they face in recovering whose Social Security number has been com- Hon. SAM JOHNSON, from identity theft and from other promised. Chairman, House of Representatives, Sub- forms of exploitation. An individual’s Social Security number is committee on Social Security, Washington, critical financial information and integral to In response, I spent a large part of DC. everyone’s personal identity. The range of Hon. JOHN B. LARSON, my legislative career working on vic- fraud that can be committed when an indi- Ranking Member, House of Representatives, tim’s rights and ensuring justice. I am vidual’s Social Security number has been Subcommittee on Social Security, Wash- pleased that we are considering H.R. compromised is truly staggering, and the ington, DC. 6084 today. time and effort required to reassert one’s fi- DEAR CONGRESSMAN BISHOP, CHAIRMAN nancial identity can be daunting. Stream- Mr. Speaker, Americans who are vic- JOHNSON AND RANKING MEMBER LARSON: On lining and simplifying the assistance that behalf of the National Council of Social Se- tims of identity theft often face an up- the SSA offers an identity theft victim will curity Management Associations (NCSSMA) hill battle when they contact the So- be welcomed by individuals who are caught and our members throughout the nation, I cial Security Administration for help. in an often overwhelming situation. would like to thank you for your introduc- All too often, these individuals find We look forward to continuing to work tion and original cosponsorship of H.R. 6084, themselves being bounced around in with you to promote the integrity of the So- the Improving Social Security’s Service to cial Security program, and to protect the phone trees from recording to record- Victims of Identity Theft Act. We very much identities of American workers and their appreciate your leadership on this important ing, person to person, only to start all families. over again with each new person with legislation to ensure a measure that will not Sincerely, only benefit and protect the American pub- whom they speak. JOYCE A. ROGERS, lic, but also ease the administrative burden In many cases, an individual will Senior Vice President, on the hardworking employees of the Social Government Affairs. speak to multiple people at the Social Security Administration (SSA) by estab- lishing a single point of contact for an iden- Security Administration by phone, AMAC, only then to be told that they need to tity theft case. H.R. 6084 is a commonsense June 18, 2018. solution to a growing problem. go to a field office to resolve the situa- Hon. MIKE BISHOP, NCSSMA is pleased to support H.R. 6084 as tion. 8th Congressional District, Michigan, Wash- it reinforces NCSSMA’s own efforts and ini- ington, DC. tiatives to provide the best service to the Mr. Speaker, I just think that is DEAR CONGRESSMAN BISHOP: On behalf of wrong. These are victims of identity American people, through the effective and the 1.3 million members of AMAC, the Asso- efficient administration of SSA’s programs. theft who urgently need assistance ciation of Mature American Citizens, I am Millions of Americans fall victim to identity from the Social Security Administra- writing in support of H.R. 6084, the Improv- theft every year. We believe this legislation tion so that they can get their lives ing Social Security’s Service to Victims of will help identity theft victims work with a back on track. But too many of these Identity Theft Act. This important piece of single point of contact at SSA to assist in re- victims are being revictimized by the legislation will make it easier for seniors to solving their identity theft case. track the status of their identity theft Social Security Administration’s cum- As an organization that is committed to claims at the Social Security Administra- improving management and program admin- bersome and disorganized system. It is tion (SSA). By establishing a single point of high time that the Social Security Ad- istration in SSA while advocating for an contact for an identity theft case, H.R. 6084 agency that remains customer focused with ministration improves its customer is a smart, senior-focused solution to a grow- an emphasis on excellent public service, we service to victims of identity theft. ing problem. commend you for your practical and timely Every year, millions of Americans, and solution to help identity theft victims. That is why I introduced H.R. 6084, particularly seniors, fall victim to identity NCSSMA is pleased to offer our organiza- the bipartisan legislation which will theft. While being victimized is bad enough, tion’s support to the Improving Social Secu- require the Social Security Adminis- the process of restoring financial security rity’s Service to Victims of Identity Theft and recovering peace of mind can be a long, tration to provide a single point of con- Act. tact at the agency to an individual who arduous, and convoluted process. For sen- Thank you again for your leadership. needs to resolve a problem with the So- iors, these problems are particularly acute Please do not hesitate to contact me if you cial Security Administration because as they primarily work with SSA—one of the have any questions or if we can provide addi- nation’s largest federal bureaucracies—to re- of the misuse of his or her Social Secu- tional assistance. store their financial security. Sincerely, rity number. H.R. 6084 seeks to improve customer serv- CHRISTOPHER DETZLER, ice to identity theft victims in a way that is This important bill will help Ameri- NCSSMA President. both smart and practical. Under this pro- cans get the assistance they need from Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- the Social Security Administration by posal, when an identity theft victim requests a new Social Security number, they will be er, I reserve the balance of my time. implementing a customer-focused proc- assigned a single point of contact at SSA to Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- ess. I am pleased to have the support of manage their case until it is resolved. For self such time as I may consume. AARP, the National Council of Social seniors, this will prove invaluable as they Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. Security Management Associations, will no longer have to navigate SSA’s mas- 6084, which will provide needed assist- and the Association of Mature Amer- sive federal structure to resolve their iden- ance to victims of identity theft. The ican Citizens. tity theft case. Seniors can have a singular, reliable, and approachable case manager who Committee on Ways and Means has Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD can answer their questions, monitor the sta- been engaged for some time on the statements of support for my bill from tus of their claim, and help seniors in need of issue of identity theft. In particular, those groups. assistance. we are stewards of the Social Security

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.058 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7115 number which is a target for identity said he had to go to a field office. As a under part C of the Medicare program, thieves because it is the key to result of all this hassling, he decided to as amended. unlocking a stolen identity. just put off filing his claim. The Clerk read the title of the bill. Identity theft is a growing problem If this bill had been in place, he The text of the bill is as follows: and online hacking has led to major se- would have had someone in Social Se- H.R. 4952 curity breaches in both government, curity to help him. Instead, he got the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- and extensively in the private sector. runaround. Having a single point of resentatives of the United States of America in Americans of all ages, even children, contact at Social Security for victims Congress assembled, are vulnerable to having their identity of identity theft just makes sense. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. stolen. This can wreak havoc in peo- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Improving Sen- ple’s lives. support this bill. iors Access to Quality Benefits Act’’. One thing we can do, which we are Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I am pre- SEC. 2. DETERMINATION OF BLENDED BENCH- MARK AMOUNT STUDY. doing today, is to make sure that indi- pared to close, and I yield myself the (a) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of viduals can get the assistance they balance of my time. Congress that the inclusion of quality increases need from the Social Security Admin- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the in the determination of blended benchmark istration, SSA, when identity theft has sponsors for their hard work, and I amounts under section 1853(n)(4) of the Social caused problems with their benefits, or urge my colleagues on both sides of the Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–23(n)(4)) under- if their number has been severely com- aisle to support this legislation. mines the goal of delivering high-quality care promised. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance under the Medicare program under title XVIII For example, fraudsters have been of my time. of such Act. (b) STUDY AND REPORT.—Not later than one able to steal a Social Security number Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- year after the date of enactment of this section, and use it to file a fraudulent benefit er, I yield myself the balance of my the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in application or to file a false tax return time. consultation with relevant stakeholders, shall and claim a refund. For some individ- Mr. Speaker, as today’s debate on conduct a study and submit to Congress a report uals, the theft of their identity creates this legislation has shown, victims of on the effects of the inclusion of quality per- such damage that they are forced to re- identity theft in this country are fac- centage increases under section 1853(n)(5) of quest a new Social Security number. ing an uphill battle in getting assist- such Act in the determination of blended bench- Right now, identity theft victims ance from the Social Security Admin- mark amounts under section 1853(n)(4) of such istration. Simply put, the current dis- Act. Such study and report shall include an trying to resolve an issue related to analysis of the following: the misuse of their Social Security connected structure at the Social Secu- (1) The authority of the Secretary to remove numbers may have to contact SSA rity Administration isn’t working for such increases from the determination of such multiple times, speaking to several dif- the American people. In response, my amounts. ferent people, before the issue can be bill would require the Social Security (2) The effects of including such increases in fully resolved. Administration to assign a single point the determination of such amounts on Medicare This legislation provides individuals of contact at the agency to those who Advantage organizations (including the effects need to solve a problem with the Social on any contracts entered into by such organiza- with a single point of contact in the tions). Social Security Administration that Security Administration because of the (3) The financial impact of including such in- will be responsible for resolving all So- misuse of his or her Social Security creases in the determination of such amounts by cial Security-related issues in connec- number. county. tion with a theft. This unit will be ac- This simply put but important re- (4) The effects of including such increases in countable to identity theft victims form will bring an added level of com- the determination of such amounts on individ- until completion, and will track the in- fort to victims of identity theft and uals enrolled in a plan under part C of title dividual’s case and coordinate with will ensure that they are receiving the XVIII of such Act. other units to resolve all of these quality care that they deserve. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- issues as quickly as possible. In closing, I thank Ranking Member ant to the rule, the gentleman from I certainly support this legislation, LARSON for assisting in this bill and Pennsylvania (Mr. KELLY) and the gen- which was reported out of the Ways joining me in offering the bill. I also tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. NEAL) and Means Committee by a unanimous thank Chairman BRADY, Ranking Mem- each will control 20 minutes. vote. I urge support for H.R. 6084, and I ber NEAL, and my fellow Ways and The Chair recognizes the gentleman reserve the balance of my time. Means members for their support. from Pennsylvania. Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues GENERAL LEAVE er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman to join me in supporting this important Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. from Texas (Mr. SAM JOHNSON), one of bipartisan legislation, and I yield back Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the great leaders of this body. the balance of my time. all Members may have 5 legislative Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The days within which to revise and extend Speaker, I want to thank my good question is on the motion offered by their remarks and include extraneous friends, Representative BISHOP, and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. material on H.R. 4952, currently under Ranking Member LARSON, for their BISHOP) that the House suspend the consideration. work on this commonsense bill. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6084, as The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there I have heard firsthand how hard it amended. objection to the request of the gen- can be for victims of identity theft to The question was taken; and (two- tleman from Pennsylvania? work with the Social Security Admin- thirds being in the affirmative) the There was no objection. istration. rules were suspended and the bill, as Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. amended, was passed. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I b 1530 A motion to reconsider was laid on may consume. Recently, a man told me about his the table. Mr. Speaker, this bill, H.R. 4952, the experience of someone trying to claim f Improving Seniors Access to Quality his benefit. First, he got a letter from Benefits Act, will allow us to take a Social Security telling him to call IMPROVING SENIORS ACCESS TO deeper look at how the Medicare Ad- them about his claim. He hadn’t made QUALITY BENEFITS ACT vantage benchmark cap is affecting a claim, so he called Social Security at Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. people across the Nation. I have been the number they gave him, and he Speaker, I move to suspend the rules working with Mr. KIND and other Mem- never heard back. Later, when he tried and pass the bill (H.R. 4952) to direct bers to address this inequity that af- to file a claim of his own, he ended up the Secretary of Health and Human fects seniors in high-quality plans having to make four separate calls. Services to conduct a study and submit across the country. Then, Social Security told him they a report on the effects of the inclusion The Medicare Advantage program couldn’t help him over the phone. Be- of quality increases in the determina- was designed to give seniors a choice in cause of the fraudulent claim, they tion of blended benchmark amounts their healthcare and utilize the private

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.059 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7116 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 sector to provide better care and bene- bill so that it may proceed expeditiously to This bill, by requiring a study of the fits. Medicare Advantage plans receive the House Floor. issue, will help Congress come to a con- a capitated payment rate to cover the I acknowledge that by waiving formal con- clusion on possible solutions. sideration of the bill, the Committee on En- patient’s total cost of care. In order to ergy and Commerce is in no way waiving its In closing, I thank the sponsors for encourage quality, seniors enrolled in jurisdiction over the subject matter con- their hard work. I urge my colleagues high-quality plans receive a quality tained in those provisions of the bills that on both sides of the aisle to support bonus payment that goes directly to fall within your Rule X jurisdiction. I would H.R. 4952, and I yield back the balance seniors in the form of reduced cost support your effort to seek appointment of of my time. sharing or extra benefits. an appropriate number of conferees on any Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. The Medicare Advantage program is House-Senate conference involving this leg- Speaker, I yield myself the balance of very popular and has been working well islation. I will include a copy of our letters in the my time. for many years. In my district in west- Congressional Record during consideration Mr. Speaker, it is estimated that the ern Pennsylvania, more than half of of this legislation on the House floor. ACA’s benchmark cap negatively im- Medicare beneficiaries choose Medicare Sincerely, pacts more than 40 percent of counties Advantage. Nationwide, Medicare Ad- KEVIN BRADY, across our country. The Improving vantage enrollment has grown to 30 Chairman. Seniors Access to Quality Benefits Act percent of Medicare beneficiaries. That will require the Secretary to fully HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COM- number is even higher with 48 percent evaluate the impact of including qual- of the Hispanic and 38 percent of Afri- MITTEE ON ENERGY AND COM- MERCE, ity bonus payments under the bench- can American Medicare beneficiaries Washington, DC, July 16, 2018. mark cap on our seniors residing in choosing Medicare Advantage. Hon. KEVIN BRADY, these counties. Unfortunately, the Affordable Care Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, This bill was brought through the Act implemented a cap on payments to Washington, DC. committee process in a bipartisan fash- Medicare Advantage plans. This mis- DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for ion. Now on the floor, I strongly rec- guided benchmark cap policy has pe- your letters regarding H.R. 4952, the ‘‘Im- proving Seniors Access to Quality Benefits ommend my colleagues on both sides of nalized approximately 5.8 million the aisle to vote in favor of H.R. 4952 to American seniors being denied impor- Act,’’ H.R. 6138, the ‘‘Ambulatory Surgical Center (ACS) Payment Transparency Act of ensure seniors are not missing out on tant benefits like care coordination, vi- 2018,’’ and H.R. 6311, the ‘‘To amend the In- additional healthcare benefits or re- sion, dental, and wellness programs. ternal Revenue Code of 1986 and the Patient duced cost sharing as a result of the This issue has cost seniors in my dis- Protection and Affordable Care Act to mod- trict and across the country millions of ACA’s benchmark cap. ify the definition of qualified health plan for Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance dollars in benefits that they are enti- purposes of the health insurance premium tled to. We talk often about paying for tax credit and to allow individuals pur- of my time. value in the Medicare program, and chasing health insurance in the individual The SPEAKER pro tempore. The this policy undermines that goal. market to purchase a lower premium copper question is on the motion offered by plan.’’ the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. The benchmark cap is clearly a prob- The Committee on Energy and Commerce lem, and we need more information on KELLY) that the House suspend the will forgo consideration of both bills so that rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4952, as it. The Improving Seniors Access to they may proceed expeditiously to the House Quality Benefits Act requires the Sec- Floor. amended. retary of HHS to analyze and report to I appreciate your assurance that by for- The question was taken; and (two- Congress on the impact of including going action on these bills, the Committee is thirds being in the affirmative) the quality bonus payments in the Medi- in no way waiving its jurisdiction over the rules were suspended and the bill, as subject matter contained in the bills. I also amended, was passed. care Advantage benchmark cap. It also appreciate your offer of support for the ap- establishes a sense of Congress that A motion to reconsider was laid on pointment of conferees from the Committee the table. this issue undermines the goal of deliv- to any House-Senate conference involving ering high-quality care in the Medicare this legislation. f program. Sincerely, AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER It is my understanding that the De- GREG WALDEN, Chairman. PAYMENT TRANSPARENCY ACT partment of Health and Human Serv- OF 2018 ices has limited secretarial authority Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- to make this change on its own. I hope self such time as I may consume. Mr. NUNES. Mr. Speaker, I move to to work together with the Secretary on Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my suspend the rules and pass the bill policies such as this to encourage high- colleagues to support H.R. 4952, the Im- (H.R. 6138) to amend title XVIII of the quality plans for seniors. proving Seniors Access to Quality Ben- Social Security Act to provide for am- Mr. Speaker, this legislation has efits Act. bulatory surgical center representation broad support from many stakeholders, More than 19 million Medicare bene- during the review of hospital out- including America’s Health Insurance ficiaries were enrolled in Medicare Ad- patient payment rates under part B of Plans, the Better Medicare Alliance, vantage plans in 2017—that is almost the Medicare program, and for other the Healthcare Leadership Council, one-third of all Medicare bene- purposes, as amended. Meals on Wheels America, the National ficiaries—and that number is growing The Clerk read the title of the bill. Minority Quality Forum, the Alliance every year. This bill would require the The text of the bill is as follows: of Community Health Plans, and many Department of Health and Human H.R. 6138 Services to conduct a study and submit others. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mr. Speaker, I urge the adoption of a report to Congress on the effect of in- resentatives of the United States of America in this legislation, and I reserve the bal- cluding quality bonus payments in the Congress assembled, ance of my time. benchmark cap. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. The Centers for Medicare and Med- COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Ambulatory icaid Services, or CMS, believes the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Surgical Center Payment Transparency Act Washington, DC, July 13, 2018. benchmark payments made to Medi- of 2018’’ or the ‘‘ASC Payment Transparency Hon. GREG WALDEN, care Advantage plans include the bo- Act of 2018’’. Chairman, Committee on Energy and Commerce, nuses Medicare Advantage plans may SEC. 2. ADVISORY PANEL ON HOSPITAL OUT- Washington, DC. earn from delivering care that meets PATIENT PAYMENT REPRESENTA- DEAR CHAIRMAN WALDEN: I write to you re- certain basic quality standards. On the TION. garding H.R. 4952, the ‘‘Improving Seniors other hand, plans argue that these (a) ASC REPRESENTATIVE.—The second sen- tence of section 1833(t)(9)(A) of the Social Se- Access to Quality Benefits Act’’ the Com- quality bonuses should not be included mittee on Ways and Means ordered favorably curity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(t)(9)(A)) is amend- reported that was also referred to the Com- in the benchmark cap. The Medicare ed by inserting ‘‘and at least one ambulatory mittee on Energy and Commerce. Payment Advisory Commission has surgical center representative’’ after ‘‘an ap- I ask that the Committee on Energy and recommended, among other things, propriate selection of representatives of pro- Commerce waive formal consideration of the that this interaction be investigated. viders’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.062 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7117 (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment staff for working to provide trans- that our constituents bring up every made by subsection (a) shall apply with re- parency in this space. I also thank Mr. day: skyrocketing prescription drug spect to advisory panels consulted on or LARSON for his work and partnership costs, increasing premiums, and after the date that is 1 year after the date of on this important bill. threats to guaranteed coverage. enactment of this Act. Mr. Speaker, I encourage all Mem- I just wanted to make those points, SEC. 3. REASONS FOR EXCLUDING ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES FROM ASC APPROVED bers to support this legislation, and I never losing the opportunity. LIST. reserve the balance of my time. This bill is pretty simple, Mr. Speak- Section 1833(i)(1) of the Social Security COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, er. Right now the Centers for Medicare Act (42 U.S.C. 1395l(i)(1)) is amended by add- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, and Medicaid Services, or CMS, has an ing at the end the following: ‘‘In updating Washington, DC, July 13, 2018. advisory panel for hospital outpatient such lists for application in years beginning Hon. GREG WALDEN, issues that is comprised of outside ex- with the second year beginning after the Chairman, Committee on Energy and Commerce, perts. The problem is this panel does date of the enactment of this sentence, for Washington, DC. not include representation for an am- DEAR CHAIRMAN WALDEN: I write to you re- each procedure that was not proposed to be bulatory surgical center, or ASC, in its included in such lists in the proposed rule garding H.R. 6138, the ‘‘Ambulatory Surgical with respect to such lists and that was subse- Center (ACS) Payment Transparency Act of membership, despite the panel coun- quently requested to be included in such lists 2018’’ the Committee on Ways and Means or- seling on Medicare or ASC payment during the public comment period with re- dered favorably reported which was also re- issues. spect to such proposed rule and that is not ferred to the Committee on Energy and Com- This legislation would require the ad- included in the final rule updating such lists, merce. dition of someone from ASC on the ad- the Secretary shall cite in such final rule the I ask that the Committee on Energy and visory panel on hospital outpatient Commerce waive formal consideration of the specific criteria in paragraph (b) or (c) of sec- concerns. tion 416.166 of title 42, Code of Federal Regu- bill so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House Floor. Given that Medicare pays ASCs more lations (or any successor regulation), based than $4 billion a year through the out- on which the procedure was excluded. If I acknowledge that by waiving formal con- paragraph (b) of such section is cited for ex- sideration of the bill, the Committee on En- patient payment rule, it just makes clusion of a procedure, the Secretary shall ergy and Commerce is in no way waiving its sense that ASCs be represented on this identify the peer reviewed research, if any, jurisdiction over the subject matter con- panel. or the evidence upon which such determina- tained in those provisions of the bills that The bill requires more transparency tion is based.’’. fall within your Rule X jurisdiction. I would in determining what types of surgeries support your effort to seek appointment of are safe to perform on an outpatient The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- an appropriate number of conferees on any ant to the rule, the gentleman from House-Senate conference involving this leg- basis. More than 3 million Medicare California (Mr. NUNES) and the gen- islation. beneficiaries receive care at an ASC for tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. NEAL) I will include a copy of our letters in the cataract surgery and other surgeries. each will control 20 minutes. Congressional Record during consideration This bill makes sure that Medicare The Chair recognizes the gentleman of this legislation on the House floor. hears the voice of the ASC provider, so Sincerely, from California. that millions of Medicare beneficiaries KEVIN BRADY, can continue to receive the outpatient GENERAL LEAVE Chairman. Mr. NUNES. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- care they want. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of H.R. imous consent that all Members have 5 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, legislative days in which to revise and COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE, 6138, and I yield back the balance of my extend their remarks and include ex- Washington, DC, July 16, 2018. time. Hon. KEVIN BRADY, b 1545 traneous material on H.R. 6138, cur- Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, rently under consideration. Washington, DC. Mr. NUNES. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for self such time as I may consume. objection to the request of the gen- your letters regarding H.R. 4952, the ‘‘Im- I want to reiterate the small but im- tleman from California? proving Seniors Access to Quality Benefits portant step we are taking here today There was no objection. Act,’’ H.R. 6138, the ‘‘Ambulatory Surgical in passing this legislation. Ambulatory Mr. NUNES. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Center (ACS) Payment Transparency Act of surgical centers provide excellent care 2018,’’ and H.R. 6311, the ‘‘To amend the In- self such time as I may consume. at lower cost to patients and tax- Mr. Speaker, ambulatory surgery ternal Revenue Code of 1986 and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to mod- payers. centers provide patients with high- ify the definition of qualified health plan for While there is a much longer con- quality, same-day surgical and preven- purposes of the health insurance premium versation that needs to happen regard- tive care. H.R. 6138, the Ambulatory tax credit and to allow individuals pur- ing parity in reimbursement in out- Surgical Center Payment Trans- chasing health insurance in the individual patient settings, what we are doing parency Act of 2018, makes two simple market to purchase a lower premium copper here is simple. ASCs are an integral and straightforward ASC reforms. plan.’’ part of the healthcare system, and we The bill adds an ASC representative The Committee on Energy and Commerce will forgo consideration of both bills so that are saying that, as stakeholders, they to the advisory panel on hospital out- they may proceed expeditiously to the House deserve a seat at the table when patient payment, which will allow Floor. changes to payment policies are being ASCs proper representation and a seat I appreciate your assurance that by for- debated and when decisions are being at the table for future CMS payment going action on these bills, the Committee is made by CMS on the services they are policy changes. This bill also requires in no way waiving its jurisdiction over the able to provide patients. We believe the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid subject matter contained in the bills. I also they should get a transparent expla- appreciate your offer of support for the ap- Services to disclose their criteria for nation as to why those decisions were inclusion or exclusion of procedures on pointment of conferees from the Committee to any House-Senate conference involving made. the ASC approved list. this legislation. Mr. Speaker, this is a commonsense Currently, CMS does not fully pro- Sincerely, bill. I urge all my colleagues to support vide explanations for their decisions, GREG WALDEN, it, and I yield back the balance of my leading to a lack of transparency in the Chairman. time. process. These simple changes will con- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. tinue to protect patient access to cost- self such time as I may consume. WEBER of Texas). The question is on effective and high-quality services per- Mr. Speaker, the House has passed the motion offered by the gentleman formed in the ASC setting. this bill before, making clarifications from California (Mr. NUNES) that the I hope that this legislation marks the on existing religious exemptions for House suspend the rules and pass the first of many steps in further bol- healthcare. I understand that religious bill, H.R. 6138, as amended. stering ASC and patient access to these groups have important healthcare con- The question was taken; and (two- high-quality facilities. cerns that should be taken seriously. thirds being in the affirmative) the I thank Chairman BRADY, Ranking While I support this bill, we should rules were suspended and the bill, as Member NEAL, and the Ways and Means be talking about issues in healthcare amended, was passed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.021 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 A motion to reconsider was laid on (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— pay into the program and have their the table. (1) SOCIAL SECURITY ACT.—Section 210(a) of earnings count toward future benefits. the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 410(a)) is f This problem was brought to my at- amended— tention a few years ago when I met (A) in paragraph (20), by striking ‘‘or’’ at the TRIBAL SOCIAL SECURITY with Virginia Cross. Virginia Cross is FAIRNESS ACT OF 2018 end; (B) in paragraph (21), by striking the period the chairwoman of the Muckleshoot Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I move at the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and Tribal Council in Washington State. to suspend the rules and pass the bill (C) by inserting after paragraph (21) the fol- After this meeting, we discovered other (H.R. 6124) to amend title II of the So- lowing new paragraph: Tribal leaders in Washington and cial Security Act to authorize vol- ‘‘(22) Service performed by members of Indian across the country face the same chal- untary agreements for coverage of In- tribal councils as tribal council members in the lenges, including the Snoqualmie Tribe dian tribal council members, and for employ of an Indian tribal government, except that this paragraph shall not apply in the case in Washington. Hearing these exam- other purposes, as amended. of service included under an agreement under ples, it just didn’t seem fair that those The Clerk read the title of the bill. section 218A.’’. who wanted to pay into the system The text of the bill is as follows: (2) INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986.—The In- could not pay into the system. That is H.R. 6124 ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended— when my staff and I went to work to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (A) in section 3121(b)— find a solution. resentatives of the United States of America in (i) in paragraph (20), by striking ‘‘or’’ at the Thanks to the dedicated advocacy of Congress assembled, end; (ii) in paragraph (21), by striking the period the Muckleshoot and the Snoqualmie SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. at the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and Tribes and the leadership of fellow This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Tribal Social (iii) by inserting after paragraph (21) the fol- Washingtonians, Representatives Security Fairness Act of 2018’’. lowing new paragraph: DELBENE and KILMER, as well as Rep- SEC. 2. VOLUNTARY AGREEMENTS FOR COV- ‘‘(22) service performed by members of Indian resentatives COLE and SCHWEIKERT, we ERAGE OF SERVICES BY AMERICAN tribal councils as tribal council members in the INDIAN TRIBAL COUNCIL MEMBERS. were able to find a bipartisan, com- employ of an Indian tribal government, except prehensive solution to the problem. I (a) IN GENERAL.—Title II of the Social Secu- that this paragraph shall not apply in the case rity Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.) is amended by in- of service included under an agreement under would also like to thank Chairman serting after section 218 the following new sec- section 218A of the Social Security Act.’’; and BRADY and Ranking Member NEAL of tion: (B) in section 3121(d)(4), by inserting ‘‘or the Ways and Means Committee and ‘‘VOLUNTARY AGREEMENTS FOR COVERAGE OF 218A’’ after ‘‘section 218’’. their staff for all the hard work they INDIAN TRIBAL COUNCIL MEMBERS (c) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this have put in on this most important ‘‘Purpose of Agreement Act or the amendments made by this Act shall be bill. ‘‘SEC. 218A. (a)(1) The Commissioner of Social construed to affect application of any Federal I urge my colleagues to join me Security shall, at the request of any Indian income tax withholding requirements under the today in righting this wrong so our Internal Revenue Code of 1986. tribe, enter into an agreement with such Indian Tribal leaders can receive the Social tribe for the purpose of extending the insurance The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Security benefits they deserve. system established by this title to services per- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of formed by individuals as members of such In- Washington (Mr. REICHERT) and the my time. dian tribe’s tribal council. Any agreement with gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. an Indian tribe under this section applies to all Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- NEAL) each will control 20 minutes. members of the tribal council, and shall include self such time as I may consume. all services performed by individuals in their ca- The Chair recognizes the gentleman Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. pacity as council members. from Washington. 6124, which closes a longstanding gap in ‘‘(2) Notwithstanding section 210(a), for the GENERAL LEAVE Social Security coverage for members purposes of this title, the term ‘employment’ in- Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I ask of Indian Tribal councils. cludes any service included under an agreement unanimous consent that all Members Let me thank Representatives DAVE entered into under this section. may have 5 legislative days within REICHERT and SUZAN DELBENE for their ‘‘Definitions which to revise and extend their re- good work to resolve this issue. ‘‘(b) For the purposes of this section: marks and include extraneous material H.R. 6124 allows Indian Tribal coun- ‘‘(1) The term ‘member’ means, with respect to on H.R. 6124, currently under consider- cils to voluntarily cover their members a tribal council, an individual appointed or ation. under Social Security in a way that is elected to serve as a member or the head of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tribal council. similar to how State and local govern- ‘‘(2) The term ‘tribal council’ means the ap- objection to the request of the gen- ments do so today. This would allow pointed or elected governing body of a federally tleman from Washington? individuals employed as members of recognized Indian tribe. There was no objection. Tribal councils to contribute to Social ‘‘Effective Date of Agreement Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Security and Medicare and, therefore, ‘‘(c)(1) Any agreement under this section shall myself such time as I may consume. earn benefit protection. be effective with respect to services performed Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today I want to emphasize that the decision after an effective date specified in such agree- in support of my bill, the Tribal Social to participate would be voluntary. ment, provided that such date may not be ear- Security Fairness Act. This bipartisan Each Tribal council will have the right lier than the first day of the next calendar bill supports our community’s Tribal to decide for itself. month after the month in which the agreement leaders and their fair access to the So- In addition, because there has been is executed by both parties. cial Security system and the benefits confusion around this issue for many ‘‘(2) At the request of the Indian tribe at the they have earned by ensuring Tribal time of the agreement, such agreement may years, the legislation allows Tribal apply with respect to services performed before governments have the same oppor- council members to receive benefit such effective date for which there were timely tunity to participate in the Social Se- credit if they have erroneously paid So- paid in good faith (and not subsequently re- curity Program that so many others cial Security taxes in the past, even funded) to the Secretary of the Treasury across the country rely on. It was though they were not required to. This amounts equivalent to the sum of the taxes unanimously approved by the Ways and is only fair, and I am pleased that the which would have been imposed by sections 3101 Means Committee in late June. legislation addresses this problem as and 3111 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 This bill provides a simple solution well. had such services constituted employment for to a problem facing Tribal leaders purposes of chapter 21 of such Code. No agree- Social Security and Medicare cov- ment under this section may require payment to across the country, including in my erage are valuable protections for all be made after the effective date specified in such home State of Washington. In Wash- Americans. I am pleased that this bi- agreement of any taxes with respect to services ington State, many Tribal leaders have partisan legislation is moving forward, performed before such effective date. been paying into the Social Security and I urge its support. ‘‘Duration of Agreement system with the expectation of future Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ‘‘(d) No agreement under this section may be benefits. However, a Social Security my time. terminated on or after the effective date of the Administration policy ruling issued in Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield agreement.’’. 2006 prevented them from continuing to such time as he may consume to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.068 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7119 gentleman from Texas (Mr. SAM JOHN- both sides of the aisle to support this excise tax on medical devices, and ask SON). legislation, and I yield back the bal- for its immediate consideration. Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. ance of my time. The Clerk read the title of the bill. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- REICHERT, Ms. DELBENE, Mr. COLE, and myself the balance of my time. ant to House Resolution 1011, the Mr. KILMER for introducing this com- Mr. Speaker, H.R. 6124, the Tribal So- amendment printed in House Report monsense bill. cial Security Fairness Act, is a 115–860 is adopted, and the bill, as As chairman of the Ways and Means straightforward, commonsense, bipar- amended, is considered read. Social Security Subcommittee, I held a tisan bill. It ensures our Tribal leaders The text of the bill, as amended, is as hearing last year on Social Security have access to Social Security benefits follows: coverage for some State and local gov- that they so deserve. H.R. 184 ernments. During the hearing, we dis- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- cussed how State and local govern- join me in supporting this bipartisan resentatives of the United States of America in ments were initially excluded from So- bill, and I yield back the balance of my Congress assembled, cial Security. But over time, the law time. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. was changed to provide State and local Mr. GALLEGO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Protect governments the choice to extend So- support of H.R. 6124, the Tribal Social Secu- Medical Innovation Act of 2018’’. cial Security coverage to their employ- rity Fairness Act. SEC. 2. REPEAL OF MEDICAL DEVICE EXCISE TAX. ees. I am pleased to support this common sense, (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 32 of the Internal However, Tribal councils don’t have bipartisan bill that will extend a basic right to Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking this same option. The IRS and Social tribal leaders across the country: the ability to subchapter E. Security have a rule that Tribal coun- retire with dignity and security. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— cil members are not eligible for Social Astonishing as it may seem, elected tribal (1) Subsection (a) of section 4221 of such Code is amended by striking the last sen- Security coverage. That isn’t right. leaders, including those who have already tence. Tribal councils should be able to par- paid into Social Security, can no longer con- (2) Paragraph (2) of section 6416(b) of such ticipate in Social Security if they want tribute to—or access the benefits of—this crit- Code is amended by striking the last sen- to. The bill on the floor today fixes this ical safety net program. tence. by giving Tribal councils the choice. After a lifetime of service to their commu- (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of I also want to be clear that this bill nities, tribal leaders shouldn’t have to struggle subchapters for chapter 32 of such Code is does not mandate Social Security cov- to make ends meet. amended by striking the item relating to erage. Tribes will still have the ability They deserve the same access to Social subchapter E. (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments to make their own decision. Security as every other American. made by this section shall apply to sales This bill treats Tribal council mem- This speaks to a broader problem, Mr. after December 31, 2019. bers fairly when it comes to Social Se- Speaker. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill curity benefits and is the result of a re- As the first inhabitants of our homeland, the shall be debatable for 1 hour, equally quest from several Tribal councils. I interests of Native Americans should be a pri- divided and controlled by the chair and encourage my colleagues to support mary consideration when federal policy mak- ranking minority member of the Com- this bill. It is a bipartisan bill. ers go to work—not an afterthought. mittee on Ways and Means. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I am pre- But, too often, the unique considerations of The gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. pared to close, and I reserve the bal- Indian Country are just that . . . an after- PAULSEN) and the gentleman from Mas- ance of my time. thought. sachusetts (Mr. NEAL) each will control Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Nevertheless, every decision we make in 30 minutes. 2 minutes to the gentleman from Ari- this body—from the Farm Bill to healthcare to The Chair recognizes the gentleman zona (Mr. SCHWEIKERT), a member of tax policy—every decision we make impacts from Minnesota. the Ways and Means Committee. our Native American brothers and sisters. Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I Earlier today, in the Subcommittee on Indian GENERAL LEAVE will do this really quickly. Affairs, we heard from the tribe whose mem- Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask Being from Arizona, where I have, bers helped the Pilgrims survive that first win- unanimous consent that all Members functionally, 23 Tribes, 21 or 22 reserva- ter in Plymouth. Their good will is part of the may have 5 legislative days within tions, it is surprising how often this be- reason you and I are here today. which to revise and extend their re- comes a subject and trying to under- Moving forward, it’s incumbent upon us to marks and include extraneous material stand how big and complex many of our demonstrate the same generosity of spirit that on the bill H.R. 184, currently under Tribal communities are. We think our was shown to our nation’s founders. consideration. lives are sometimes complex. Imagine And we can start here and now. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there having to operate in the world of mul- I urge my colleagues to support this com- objection to the request of the gen- tiple layers, where you have to deal mon sense legislation today, and to fully con- tleman from Minnesota? with State and local, Federal, and then sider the implications of new policies on Indian There was no objection. Tribal politics, issues, and those Country in the future. Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield things. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The myself such time as I may consume. I was visiting some of my friends on question is on the motion offered by Mr. Speaker, today, the House will a Tribal community called Ak-Chin. It the gentleman from Washington (Mr. vote on H.R. 184, the Protect Medical was interesting. One of the gentleman REICHERT) that the House suspend the Innovation Act, which will finally re- there basically said: I am on council. I rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6124, as peal the medical device excise tax and can’t participate in Social Security. amended. eliminate a burden on patients and the But before I was on council, I managed The question was taken; and (two- companies that create and produce life- one of the Tribal operations, and there thirds being in the affirmative) the saving medical devices for people all I could participate in Social Security. rules were suspended and the bill, as over the world. I know this is sort of a glitch, but amended, was passed. The medical device industry is truly this is one of those honorable things A motion to reconsider was laid on an American success story, directly where we step up and we create some the table. employing more than 400,000 people. In optionality. Within that optionality, I f Minnesota alone, more than 35,000 peo- think we respect Tribal sovereignty, ple are employed at almost 700 compa- and we are just doing the right thing PROTECT MEDICAL INNOVATION nies, mostly small companies that you here. ACT OF 2017 have never heard of. Many of them Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, pursu- were started by a doctor or an engineer self the balance of my time. ant to House Resolution 1011, I call up or an entrepreneur in the garage or in I want to thank the sponsors for the bill (H.R. 184) to amend the Inter- the backyard with an idea to improve their hard work. I urge colleagues on nal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal the or help save someone’s life. In fact, 80

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.069 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 percent of all medical device compa- across the aisle, and my colleagues, to American families need certainty, nies have less than 50 employees, and get this over the finish line, because Mr. Speaker. What is happening to our 93 percent have less than 500 employ- there are very few issues that would Nation’s healthcare at the moment is ees. The jobs they provide are good, re- unite an ELIZABETH WARREN and a TED anything but. It is another obstacle for warding jobs that pay above-average CRUZ, but this, Mr. Speaker, is one of families to get a leg up and ensure salaries. them. their children and grandchildren are Mr. Speaker, America is a net ex- Mr. Speaker, I would encourage all safe and have opportunities well into porter in medical devices, one of the Members to support this legislation, the future. other reasons why it is an American and I reserve the balance of my time. The same is true for our seniors and success story. But back in 2013, the Af- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- those working to prepare for retire- fordable Care Act imposed a new 2.3 self such time as I may consume. ment. They should be in a place know- percent excise tax on all medical de- Mr. Speaker, this week has been ing they can retire without anxiety vices. dubbed ‘‘health week’’ on the House and have health programs they can b 1600 floor. However, based on the legislation count on in their later years. we are considering, it is hard to take The bills before us this day do noth- Mr. Speaker, 2.3 percent may not that challenge seriously. The bills be- ing to solve problems for everyday sound like much, but it wasn’t a tax on fore us today simply don’t do very Americans. Instead, it leaves them fur- profits; it was a tax on sales, on rev- much. Instead, we should be consid- ther behind, with increased healthcare enue. Usually the government puts an ering measures that go to the heart of costs, lower coverage, and certainly excise tax on things we want to dis- what Americans need: lower healthcare courage, like tobacco, alcohol, or gas- sacrifices the quality of care they costs and high-quality care. That in- guzzling automobiles. might receive. Why would we want to discourage cludes lower drug costs and prescrip- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of medical innovation? Only in Wash- tion benefits that should be extended my time. ington would you impose a tax on life- to all members of the American family Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 saving medical devices and then think based on the following notion that we minutes to the gentleman from Indiana you are going to help reduce healthcare should continue to make sure that pre- (Mr. BANKS), someone who represents a costs. existing conditions remain part of the State that is steeped in medical tech- Guess what? The device tax caused Affordable Care Act. nology jobs and has been a leader in the loss of over 29,000 jobs. Now, with More and more families are facing championing the repeal of this tax. strong bipartisan support, we have difficult healthcare decisions. All too Mr. BANKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, been able to eliminate this onerous tax often, it comes down to not going to an I thank the gentleman from Minnesota, with suspensions. The last time we sus- important doctor appointment or cut- who has been the foremost leader in pended this tax, companies responded ting pills in half or stopping the taking the House of Representatives for a very by hiring more engineers and more of prescription medicines altogether. long time to permanently repeal the technicians and putting more money This, coupled with other challenges medical device tax. into research and development projects Americans face at home, like retire- Mr. Speaker, there are more than for these new, lifesaving technologies. ment security, addiction issues, and 7,000 medical device companies in the But these innovators need certainty. education costs, will make it harder, United States that contribute hundreds They need predictability. And a perma- not easier, for them to move forward. of billions of dollars to our economy nent repeal is needed to especially help At home in western Massachusetts, I every year. These companies employ startup companies from where the next hear about how people need to make over 400,000 Americans, while creating generation of inventions and innova- complicated decisions for their fami- lifesaving technologies that benefit pa- tion will come. lies. Congress can simplify these things tients around the world. Investors will hold back capital in by bringing bills to the floor that truly Many of these manufacturers are lo- new companies when there is a threat address the cost of healthcare without cated, as my colleague said, in my of an excise tax starting back up be- making consumers shoulder more of home district of northeast Indiana. In cause it already takes 8 to 10 years, Mr. the cost and give tax benefits to the fact, Warsaw, Indiana, in my district, Speaker, for these companies to be- wealthy, leaving patients to ever grow- is known as the orthopedic capital of come profitable in the first place. This ing medical bills. the world. tax raises the bar and makes it even Unfortunately, I have not seen any There is no doubt that this tax was more difficult for them to become prof- efforts to address these growing costs incredibly destructive while it was in itable. in a meaningful way. Instead, our Re- effect. Data from the U.S. Department I have had many conversations with publican colleagues continue to lead ef- of Commerce indicates that 29,000 jobs companies that I represent in my com- forts to sabotage critical health pro- were lost in the industry between 2012 munity about what this excise tax grams. This has led to more uncer- and 2015. Suspension of the tax has re- means to them. I remember having a tainty for American families. This un- duced some of the damage, but long- conversation with a medium-sized com- certainty also impacts the market- term investments and planning are im- pany owner who said that without this place and leads to premium increases possible without full repeal. tax they would be able to have a few and adds to the burden for American Without permanent repeal, we will more projects online, which meant families already having trouble mak- never be able to fully recover the jobs they would hire two more engineers ing ends meet. destroyed by ObamaCare, and patients and two more technicians. Other com- Instead of placing more anxiety on will continue to be denied new, life- panies to which I have spoken said individuals facing discrimination for saving products. they would be able to directly invest preexisting conditions, we should pro- The Protect Medical Innovation Act more in research and development, cre- tect and strengthen already existing will ensure that the medical device in- ating more high-paying jobs, invent programs like Medicare and Medicaid. dustry does not just survive but better products. Ultimately, it is about The legislation before us is another thrives, and this commonsense and bi- helping more patients. billion, billion, billions of dollars in partisan legislation would permanently The good news, Mr. Speaker, is there unpaid tax cuts. This is on top of the repeal the medical device tax and, is strong recognition that we need to $2.3 trillion this Congress has already thereby, remove a mindless roadblock eliminate this tax on a bipartisan passed into law, all with borrowed to economic growth and patient health. basis, because it is such bad policy. In money. Republicans are using the def- I want to thank my friend again, fact, very few bills have such strong bi- icit, which they keep making larger, to Representative PAULSEN, for his tire- partisan support: 277 cosponsors. Mr. justify the deep cuts they plan to make less efforts on this issue, and I urge my Speaker, 44 of those cosponsors are to Medicare, Social Security, and Med- colleagues to support passage of H.R. Democrats across the aisle. icaid. These bills will only intensify 184. I pledge that I will continue working Republican calls for further cuts to Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 with Senator KLOBUCHAR in the Senate those critical programs. minutes to the gentleman from New

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.072 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7121 Jersey (Mr. PASCRELL), who is a well- tinue to cut Medicare, and you will be the U.S. is the current worldwide lead- known champion of Americans’ cutting off your nose to spite your er in medical technology innovation, healthcare plans. face. that leadership is being threatened. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I know Congress most recently passed a I am speaking to you today about the the great intentions of the sponsor of delay of the medical device tax as part medical device tax. This industry has a this legislation. That is not in ques- of the continuing resolution. This ex- huge presence in Utah, and this unfair tion. What is in question is that we tended the time that they wouldn’t tax would have a negative effect on my have very, very short memories when have to pay a dime to the health sys- district and the country as a whole. it comes to healthcare. tem through the end of next year, cost- b 1615 We made a commitment when we put ing taxpayers $4 billion. Nothing to the Affordable Care Act together. We sneeze at. In Utah, this industry has created knew it wasn’t perfect, and obviously Additionally, this year, the industry more than 10,300 jobs and contributes since then we have tried to make some has stood to benefit tremendously from over $5 billion to the State’s economy. changes, but we haven’t had much co- the reduction in the corporate tax rate, Recently, Congress has been focused operation from the other side. down to 21 percent. You didn’t get that on reducing taxes to make the United It wasn’t mindless. In fact, the med- break, and I didn’t get that break. States a more attractive place to do ical device industry agreed to the con- There is nothing that will lead me to business, but the medical technology clusion. In sitting down in negotiations believe these benefits will trickle down industry would get a significant tax in- we started out with one thought in to help patients afford the devices they crease. Even with the recent tax mind, regardless of what we were talk- need to survive or lower the price of changes, industry gains would be neu- ing about: we shall pay for what we those devices in the first place, regard- tralized by this tax. vote on, unlike some other legislation less of who is paying for them, out of Under the 2.3 percent excise tax, that will go nameless right now. what plan. medical device manufacturers would be We devised the Affordable Care Act I’ll go back to the point. We put the required to pay the IRS an estimated so that it could be paid for and we ACA together so that it would be paid average of $194 million per month in would not have to add to the deficit. In for. That is why we had to come up medical device tax payments. In Utah, fact, one of these taxes, in order to pay with that money, and we did, so you BD’s total impact of the device tax is for the Affordable Care Act, we are dis- couldn’t repeal it. And what you are about $90 million on an annualized cussing right now, the medical device trying to do is choke it to death. You basis. For Edwards Lifesciences, this tax. It started out at 5 percent. In are trying to bleed it. would be a $30 million expense. working with the industry, we came to What you are doing is forcing more In a competitive global economy, a conclusion of 2.3 percent. and more people—you just went from this tax threatens the industry that di- So we went from $40 billion raised for 20 million down to 17 million because of rectly employs 400,000 Americans, gen- the Affordable Care Act to $20 billion, the subsidies that you wouldn’t put erates $25 billion in payroll, and in- see, because we knew we had to pay for through that were in the law, because vests nearly $10 billion in research and this. That is what healthcare is all of the mandate that was originally in development annually. about, and that is why you guys on the the law. American companies represent 38 other side—you people have not come And what is the alternative? Silence. percent of the global market, and the up with an alternative, because you Health issues are the biggest issue this suspended tax looms over our Nation’s don’t know how to pay for anything. So year, Mr. Speaker. I am glad I am on ability to innovate and to stay com- we paid for this. the right side. petitive. As companies look to make The Protect Medical Innovation Act. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- cuts to offset the tax, research and de- Well, when the Affordable Care Act was bers are reminded to address their re- velopment is often the first one to go. being crafted, the medical device in- marks to the Chair. This tradeoff undermines the future of dustry—and by the way, the medical Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, con- the industry and puts discovery of new device industry is probably the most trary to some of the claims we heard a breakthrough medical technologies at scrutinized industry in the United little bit before about the bill doing risk. In other words, it is putting the States. Most of those companies, the nothing to help everyday, average livelihoods of people and their health 7,000 in the United States—most of Americans, I will just remind Members at risk. them—are good actors, but a lot of that this bill reverses a harmful tax According to figures from the U.S. them were not. that is hurting job growth and innova- Department of Commerce, the United Ten years ago I stood on this floor, tion across the country. States medical technology industry Mr. Speaker, and pointed out all the Access to good-paying jobs and inno- lost nearly 29,000 jobs while the med- cases against the medical device com- vative medical products is critically ical device tax was in effect. When the panies who were bribing doctors in important, and I would argue that that medical device tax was suspended, order for those doctors to recommend is really important for everyday Amer- most medical device companies rein- the device. That is a fact of life. I icans. vested most of their savings into their didn’t make that up. That is not a po- I would agree, also, with what was innovative strategies and improving litical injection here. This is what hap- said earlier. Americans need certainty. United States facilities. But long-term pened. This is an industry that needs cer- investment has been postponed because You could shove it off all you want. tainty if we are going to be able to in- of the threat that it might come back. If I have to come back to the floor on vest in new innovations, new inven- Mr. Speaker, it has been said that, by another occasion and cite chapter and tions, to keep patients at the forefront repealing the medical device tax, we verse the court cases, you won’t be so of lifesaving and life-improving tech- are going to be taking money out of happy. That is not my purpose today. nology, to make sure their healthcare Medicare. That is absolutely ridicu- What I am saying is, they agreed to is the model of the rest of the world. lous. As a matter of fact, there was a the deal. They knew that the increase Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the $700 billion cut to Medicare to pay for in health coverage of millions more gentlewoman from Utah (Mrs. LOVE), the Affordable Care Act. Americans would directly increase the who has been a strong voice for innova- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The demand for medical devices. tion, not only in her State but within time of the gentlewoman has expired. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The our conference here in the House of Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield time of the gentleman has expired. Representatives, in repealing the de- an additional 1 minute to the gentle- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield the vice tax. woman from Utah. gentleman an additional 2 minutes. Mrs. LOVE. Mr. Speaker, this is Mrs. LOVE. Mr. Speaker, Utah’s Mr. PASCRELL. By the way, Mr. about the medical technology industry Merit Medical was planning on spend- Ranking Member, many medical de- and a manufacturing success story, one ing $1.5 million for salary increases and vices are sold to people old, like my- of the last expanding manufacturing 401(k) benefits for hourly workers, but self, who are on Medicare. You con- enterprises in the United States. While they can’t, unless this tax is repealed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.074 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Merit Medical is also planning a $60 eration, but for the next 20 to 30 years colleagues who had said: Do you know million R&D facility, but it is now on in this country. Mr. Speaker, therefore, what? The medical device industry was hold because of the tax. In Utah, with I urge passage of H.R. 184. a part of putting together the Afford- the last suspension, BD increased R&D Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield able Care Act, and they agreed to this. spending from 6 percent to 6.5 percent myself such time as I may consume. Actually, that is a myth. It is not in sales. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman true. I have talked to numerous med- If this tax does not get repealed, the for sharing his perspective from Cali- ical device manufacturers, small, me- industry is forced to start making pay- fornia. I think of Minnesota and Cali- dium, and large, as well as the associa- ments. Investments will be the trade- fornia and Massachusetts and some tions, that said they had no part in off, and innovation will be stifled. This other States that have a propensity of agreeing to that. In fact, when this dol- means less jobs for Americans, a less strong ecosystems of medical tech- lar amount came up as a part of the Af- competitive America in the medical de- nology, and those jobs, we know, are fordable Care Act, they backed into it. vice industry, and, potentially, an in- very, very important. We want to see There was some dollar amount as- crease in the medical cost for our con- those continue. signed, and that is how he backed into stituents so that this industry can pay I just want to mention, Mr. Speaker, a 2.3 percent excise tax. for the tax. what we don’t want to go back to, be- And, again, just a reminder, an excise It is time to make sure that we put cause these are the stories we were tax is a tax on your sales and revenue, money back into the hands of Ameri- hearing prior to our suspension, why not on your profits. For companies cans, American businesses, and out of we need to permanently repeal this that take 8 to 10 years to become prof- the hands of government. tax. itable in the first place, that is a high Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- I remember speaking to a company in hurdle when you are trying to attract self 1 minute. Plymouth, Minnesota. They were pret- new capital, new investors in order to Mr. Speaker, anybody who doesn’t ty clear. They said: Instead of 10 take the risk that this new technology understand what $2.3 trillion of tax projects, we are only going to have 6 is going to be successful. cuts and further tax cuts of this meas- projects funded with this tax in place. You have already got to go through ure mean as a threat to Medicare and That means too few engineers, too few the FDA. You have got to go through a Social Security and Medicaid down the technicians while that device tax was rigorous process, go through a gold road, that is a short-term view of in effect. standard, and then you have to make where we are headed financially in I talked to another company that sure that you are going to potentially America. was actually in Texas. They had laid have CMS offer a reimbursement policy Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the off an employee that had been em- gentleman from California (Mr. for your devices. ployed for 22 years, and then they had So there is a whole host of, or a mul- CORREA). Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, first of laid off 25 people, deferring the hiring titude of, risk factors that go in al- all, I want to say I represent the Gold- of another 15 employees because of that ready when companies are thinking of en State of California, and I am proud tax being put in place. starting up to actually be a part of this to say that California was the first Another medical company in strong ecosystem of providing medical State in the Union to implement, to Shoreview, Minnesota, told me they technology and lifesaving innovation accept the Affordable Care Act a num- had to borrow $100,000 a month from that goes out to help our patients. ber of years ago, and when we did so, the bank just to pay the device tax be- The good news is, if we keep this in- we knew it was a work in progress. cause the tax was on sales and revenue, dustry strong in America, if we can re- After all, Medicare continues to be a not on profits. That is a high-risk trag- peal this tax permanently, we will not work in progress after 60 years. One of edy, Mr. Speaker, in order to keep only be improving healthcare outcomes those areas we knew we had to change these companies alive. around the world; we will be keeping was the medical device tax. There is a company in New York that those jobs here. We will be keeping the In California, there are over 1,000 was trying to finance a new cancer headquarters here in the United States. medical technology companies, many therapy using gamma radiation, and So it is not just some of the tax re- of which are small to medium, that em- they struggled to raise the necessary forms you pass, Mr. Speaker. It is ploy more than 70,000 Californians. funds that were necessary to complete about giving more certainty and more Many of those live and work in my dis- the project because the medical device predictability by repealing a tax that trict, and these are good-paying middle tax was discouraging investment in never should have been put in place in class jobs. lifesaving innovation. the first place. The research and development of And then, Mr. Speaker, I remember And I think with strong bipartisan groundbreaking medical technology having a conversation with an em- support, both on a vote today in the helps improve patient care and treat- ployee, someone from my district, and House and potentially once again in ments not only for Americans, but for he came up to me and said: Mr. PAUL- the Senate—I think the last time we folks throughout the world. SEN, I have been employed at this med- had a vote leading up to President In recognition of the medical tax de- ical device company for 21 years, a Obama signing a temporary suspension vice’s negative impact on innovation strong medical device manufacturer, of the device tax, we had enough votes and investment, Congress delayed its but because of the tax, I have lost my in the House to override a Presidential implementation on two separate occa- job. Now his family struggled at his veto. That is what got the attention of sions. Unfortunately, the temporary new job because his wages were $40,000 the Senate. That is what got the atten- suspension of this tax is scheduled to less than where he was before he was tion of the President at that time, and expire at the end of this year. If rein- laid off, all because of that device tax. we actually made it the law of the stated, this tax will impede future in- His vacation time was cut in half, and land, 2-year suspension. We renewed vestments and domestic innovation his healthcare costs also went up. another 2-year suspension. and restrain hiring and job growth. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of But now is the time, Mr. Speaker, to Since research and development in my time. actually make this permanent, to put this area of technology takes a number Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the ourselves in a position to make this re- of years, the uncertainty about the fu- balance of my time, but I am prepared peal permanent, to put ourselves in a ture of this tax will delay essential re- to close. position where we can guarantee that search and development and growth in Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield American innovation is going to be many areas of the State of California. myself such time as I may consume strong and steadfast for years and dec- That is why repealing the medical tax while we wait for one additional speak- ades to come. We can keep this Amer- device permanently will encourage eco- er. ican success story alive. nomic growth and hiring in Orange Mr. Speaker, let me just remind folks We have got a host of other chal- County and in my area. where we are right now. Think back to lenges, I know, as we look towards the The medical device industry rep- 2013, 2014 when this tax was first put in medical device industry. We have a resents jobs not only for the next gen- place. We heard earlier from one of our hearing going on right now on trade,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.076 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7123 for instance. We don’t need to do any- Why should the rest of us in America end the medical device tax once and for thing else with potential tariffs or pay $1,000 a year in our health insur- all. Permanently repealing this job- quotas in different areas that put addi- ance plans because there are those who killing tax will protect American tional uncertainty on this industry, on don’t want to buy health insurance and workers and help patients access the these high-paying, high-quality jobs. end up in the emergency rooms of lifesaving medical technology they So this is one initial effort that we can America, and they thumb their noses need. make today on the House floor, with a at us on the way out because of uncom- Mr. Speaker, the medical device tax strong bipartisan vote, to make sure a pensated care and they don’t pay the would have a devastating impact on permanent repeal is also the law of the bill? Hoosier workers and people from across land. So do you know what would be great, the country who depend on these prod- Mr. Speaker, I am looking around for Mr. Speaker? If we all knew the day ucts. The Protect Medical Innovation my colleague from Indiana, who I that our house was going to burn down, Act will boost American innovation think is on the way right now. then—do you know what?—the day be- and manufacturing, and it will encour- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of fore, we would buy homeowners insur- age medical research and development my time. ance. that make a real difference in people’s ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE b 1630 lives. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to bers are directed to remove their con- If we all knew the day that we were support this vital piece of legislation. versations from the floor. going to get in that accident, we would Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- buy automobile insurance. But the self the remainder of my time. self as much time as I may consume. truth is that insurance spreads risk, Mr. Speaker, I am delighted that the Mr. Speaker, I want to address the and we all know we don’t know when gentlewoman from Indiana, my friend, reference that my friend from Min- those things might occur, so we buy in- just mentioned the tax cut, so let me nesota offered a moment ago when he surance in advance. just point this out. We have gone from referred to the device tax as mythol- So, today, 20 million more Americans a rate of 35 percent in the corporate ogy. have insurance because of what we did world to 21 percent, a 14 point cut in I negotiated that agreement with the with the Affordable Care Act. This idea the corporate tax rate, and we are industry. They asked for the following: that you can continually sabotage it being asked to do this on top of it. that it be applied to foreign competi- and take it apart piece by piece makes Now, Medicare purchases most of the tion. We said yes. This was done in no sense. medical devices in America—taxpayer Speaker PELOSI’s office with the indus- On this particular issue with the de- supported. It is an earned benefit. But try. vice revenue, I can tell you and I can here is the other important part of it They suggested at the time that the state to you, under oath, Mr. Speaker, that I think bears some noting today. 5 percent tax be cut to 2.3 percent. We what we did to negotiate this contribu- went along with that. Even though the It is a terrific industry. It is not in dis- tion to making America’s healthcare pute. It is an important industry in United States Senate had sent over a more effective and better for all mem- revenue package of $40 billion, we cut America. bers of the American family, the under- But when the gentlewoman says: it by $20 billion. standing being that, at the end of life, So that wasn’t mythology. It was the ‘‘Well, the economy is booming because if you have earlier intervention with way the institution once worked, how of these tax cuts,’’ a reminder, a fact, healthcare, the end of life might be a we negotiate, go back and forth, dis- not from my Twitter account, but stat- heck of a lot more pleasant along the cuss, and then come to rational conclu- ed on the House floor: The American sions that might help and acknowledge way. economy has been growing for 94 the 20 million more Americans who Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of straight months. have coverage now under the Afford- my time. The idea that this all happened 500 able Care Act—20 million Americans. Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 days ago doesn’t stand up underneath I want to say something at this minutes to the gentlewoman from Indi- the magnifying glass of critical anal- point, Mr. Speaker, if I may. ana (Mrs. WALORSKI), who has been a ysis. The stock market has been going In the State of Massachusetts, do you champion of not only repealing this up since March of 2009. know what we are really proud of on tax, but fighting hard for the medical So when I look at the corporate cut— this day? One hundred percent of the device industry in her home State. astounding, by the way—remember, children in Massachusetts are covered Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise President Obama said we should have a with health insurance, and 97 percent today in support of H.R. 184, the Pro- corporate rate of 28 percent and the of the adults in our State are covered tect Medical Innovation Act. chairman of the Ways and Means Com- with health insurance. It is a remark- Mr. Speaker, this legislation will per- mittee, a good friend of mine, a Repub- able statistic, and it is based, in some manently repeal the job-killing med- lican, he said, no, we should have 25 measure, on the negotiations we had ical device tax. Hoosiers are proud to percent. with respective industries to get this be leaders in medical innovation with So what did the other side do? Let’s legislation over the goal line. more than 300 medical device manufac- see, the difference between 28 and 25? So I know exactly what happened turers in our State that support nearly Aha, it is 21. I mean, I haven’t figured here, and I understand fully what nego- 55,000 jobs. These are high-paying jobs, that out yet. tiations mean. But we rejected the $40 with workers in the industry earning So, day after day, we roll through billion price tag that came from the about $50,000 per year, on average. here with another tax cut proposal, and U.S. Senate, cut it in half and said to However, after ObamaCare’s medical we watch the deficits and the debt go the industry: This is, we hope and ex- device tax took effect, the industry to $20 trillion. Whatever happened to pect, your share of making sure that 20 lost almost 29,000 good-paying jobs na- the Republican idea of fiscal rectitude, million more Americans have health tionwide from 2012 to 2015, according to which year after year they lectured us insurance. Department of Commerce data. That is on? That is what this issue is about: ac- why Congress took bipartisan action in We negotiated this agreement over cessibility, earlier stages of preven- 2015 to suspend the tax for 2 years, and the device tax, Mr. Speaker, guaran- tion, getting people into health insur- did so again earlier this year. But if it teed. It was accepted by the industry. ance earlier in life. That is precisely goes back into effect after 2019, it will Again, we applied it to foreign com- what we did with the Affordable Care impede new discoveries and stifle med- petition. They would be taxed at the Act. ical innovation while destroying good same rate. Medicare would remain the And let me just say this, if I may, as jobs. largest vendor, the largest purchaser of well. Let me talk about the mandate, Right now, our economy is booming medical devices. while they are waiting for their next because of historic tax cuts and regu- This is a step backward on America’s speaker to arrive. Here is what makes latory reforms, and we need to keep healthcare plan. If they would just give the mandate and its importance. that momentum going. It is time to the Affordable Care Act a chance to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:34 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.077 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 work, instead of these deliberate ef- what we are doing here in Washington [Roll No. 372] forts day after day to sabotage it, we on this issue is results oriented, is so- YEAS—283 could move on with the business of the lution oriented, and we are sensitive, Abraham Goodlatte Palazzo country. and we understand that. Aderholt Gosar Palmer Mr. Speaker, I gladly yield back the Mr. Speaker, I ask everyone to vote Aguilar Gottheimer Panetta balance of my time. for the passage of H.R. 184, and I yield Allen Gowdy Paulsen Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, as I back the balance of my time. Amash Granger Pearce close, let me remind my colleague, be- Amodei Graves (GA) Perry The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time Arrington Graves (LA) Peters cause he had mentioned eliminating for debate has expired. Babin Green, Gene Peterson the individual mandate as a part of the Pursuant to House Resolution 1011, Bacon Griffith Pittenger tax reform that was enacted recently, the previous question is ordered on the Banks (IN) Grothman Poe (TX) according to the IRS, 79 percent of the Barletta Guthrie Poliquin bill, as amended. Barr Handel Polis 6.6 million people who paid the penalty The question is on the engrossment Barraga´ n Harper Posey in 2015 had incomes below $50,000. and third reading of the bill. Barton Harris Ratcliffe These are middle class people. Bera Hensarling Reed The bill was ordered to be engrossed Bergman Herrera Beutler Mr. NEAL. Will the gentleman yield? Reichert and read a third time, and was read the Biggs Hice, Jody B. Renacci Mr. PAULSEN. I yield to the gen- third time. Bilirakis Higgins (LA) Rice (NY) tleman from Massachusetts. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Bishop (GA) Hill Rice (SC) Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, what did the Bishop (MI) Holding Roby question is on the passage of the bill. Bishop (UT) Hollingsworth Republican majority do to the cost Roe (TN) The question was taken; and the Blum Hudson Rogers (AL) Bost Huizenga subsidies for those people? Speaker pro tempore announced that Rogers (KY) Boyle, Brendan Hultgren Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, reclaim- Rohrabacher the ayes appeared to have it. F. Hunter Rokita ing my time, on the individual man- Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, on that Brady (TX) Hurd Rooney, Francis date, 6.6 million people who paid the Brat Issa I demand the yeas and nays. Rooney, Thomas Brooks (AL) Jenkins (KS) penalty had incomes below $50,000. The yeas and nays were ordered. J. These are middle class people who had Brooks (IN) Jenkins (WV) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Brownley (CA) Johnson (LA) Ros-Lehtinen to pay the fine instead of buying over- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- Buchanan Johnson (OH) Rosen priced ObamaCare coverage that they ceedings on this question will be post- Buck Johnson, Sam Roskam could not afford. Now, starting in 2019, Bucshon Jordan Ross poned. Budd Joyce (OH) Rothfus they are not going to have to do that Rouzer f Burgess Katko anymore. Republicans think that is a Bustos Keating Royce (CA) Ruiz good thing. REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER Byrne Kelly (MS) Let me close back on the bill, Calvert Kelly (PA) Russell AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 2069 Carbajal Khanna Rutherford though, Mr. Speaker. Ca´ rdenas Kilmer Sanford The good news is that both Repub- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I ask Carter (GA) King (IA) Scalise licans and Democrats here today agree unanimous consent to remove my Carter (TX) King (NY) Schneider and understand that the medical device name as a cosponsor of H.R. 2069, the Chabot Kinzinger Schweikert Fostering Stable Housing Opportuni- Cheney Knight Scott, Austin excise tax does more harm than good, Clark (MA) Krishnamoorthi Scott, David and it has to be repealed. We heard tes- ties Act of 2017. Cloud Kuster (NH) Sensenbrenner timony and speakers today on both The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Coffman Kustoff (TN) Sessions sides of the aisle. We will have a objection to the request of the gen- Cole Labrador Sewell (AL) tleman from Florida? Collins (GA) LaHood Shimkus strong, bipartisan vote to repeal this Collins (NY) LaMalfa Shuster tax permanently. There was no objection. Comer Lamb Simpson We have already had a suspension Comstock Lamborn Sinema f Conaway Lance twice. But we need to give this indus- Sires Cook Latta Smith (NE) try certainty so that we can make sure RECESS Correa Lawson (FL) Smith (NJ) that this American success story not The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Costello (PA) Lesko Smith (TX) Cramer Lewis (MN) Smucker only survives, but thrives. ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Crawford Lieu, Ted It is about high-paying jobs with net Stefanik declares the House in recess for a pe- Crist Lipinski Stewart Cuellar LoBiondo exports around the world. This makes riod of less than 15 minutes. Stivers Culberson Loebsack sure that patients not only in the Suozzi Accordingly (at 4 o’clock and 39 min- Curbelo (FL) Loudermilk Swalwell (CA) United States are going to have access Curtis Love utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. Taylor to new medical technology devices, for Davidson Lucas Tenney f Davis (CA) Luetkemeyer baby boomers, seniors, and those get- Thompson (PA) ting up in their elder years with new Davis, Rodney Lynch b 1650 Delaney MacArthur Thornberry devices. This is really critical for the DelBene Maloney, Sean Tipton innovation that is going to help to Denham Marchant Tonko AFTER RECESS Torres make sure that we are protecting pa- DeSantis Marino The recess having expired, the House DesJarlais Marshall Trott tients around the world, keeping head- Turner was called to order by the Speaker pro Diaz-Balart Massie quarters here, keeping jobs here, and Dingell Mast Upton tempore (Mr. WEBER of Texas) at 4 improving healthcare outcomes. Donovan McCarthy Valadao o’clock and 50 minutes p.m. Vargas Today, we have an opportunity to Duffy McCaul Duncan (SC) McClintock Veasey help. It is helping those small startups f Duncan (TN) McHenry Vela that are part of the very ecosystem Dunn McKinley Wagner that has made this industry so strong PROTECT MEDICAL INNOVATION Emmer McMorris Walberg ACT OF 2017 Estes (KS) Rodgers Walden in the United States that provides Faso McSally Walker these jobs, and making sure that entre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Ferguson Meadows Walorski preneurs, doctors, engineers, and folks finished business is the vote on passage Fitzpatrick Messer Walters, Mimi who come up with an idea in the back- of the bill (H.R. 184) to amend the In- Fleischmann Mitchell Weber (TX) Flores Moolenaar Webster (FL) yard or in the garage can see their idea ternal Revenue Code of 1986 to repeal Fortenberry Mooney (WV) Wenstrup come to fruition. the excise tax on medical devices, on Foxx Moulton Westerman So let’s remove this threat to innova- which the yeas and nays were ordered. Frelinghuysen Mullin Williams Gabbard Murphy (FL) Wilson (SC) tion. Let’s remove this job-killing tax The Clerk read the title of the bill. Gaetz Newhouse Wittman once and for all. There are 277 cospon- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Gallagher Nolan Womack sors in the House. How many bills ac- question is on the passage of the bill. Garrett Norcross Woodall tually get that many cosponsors of The vote was taken by electronic de- Gianforte Norman Yoho Gibbs Nunes Young (AK) Democrats and Republicans? Let’s con- vice, and there were—yeas 283, nays Gohmert O’Halleran Young (IA) tinue to show the American public that 132, not voting 13, as follows: Gonzalez (TX) Olson Zeldin

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.079 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7125 NAYS—132 THE AMERICAN LEGION 100TH AN- and billions of dollars of property loss, Adams Gallego Nadler NIVERSARY COMMEMORATIVE and, yet, we have a program Bass Garamendi Napolitano COIN ACT unreformed that incents people to live Beatty Gomez Neal in harm’s way. We should not be doing Beyer Green, Al O’Rourke Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Blumenauer Grijalva Pallone move to suspend the rules and pass the this, Mr. Speaker. Blunt Rochester Gutie´rrez Pascrell I went and I visited with those who Bonamici Hastings bill (S. 1182) to require the Secretary of Payne the Treasury to mint commemorative survived Hurricane Harvey, people that Brady (PA) Heck Pelosi Brown (MD) Higgins (NY) were close to your district, people Perlmutter coins in recognition of the 100th anni- Butterfield Himes whose homes had flooded three times Pingree versary of The American Legion, as Capuano Hoyer Pocan amended. in the last 8 years, and I heard Carson (IN) Huffman harrowing tales of survival. And, yet, Cartwright Jackson Lee Price (NC) The Clerk read the title of the bill. Castor (FL) Jayapal Quigley The text of the bill is as follows: we have a program that says, you know Castro (TX) Jeffries Raskin what? We are going to help rebuild S. 1182 Chu, Judy Johnson (GA) Richmond your same home in the same fashion in Roybal-Allard Cicilline Johnson, E. B. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- the same place. Hope you survive next Clarke (NY) Jones Ruppersberger resentatives of the United States of America in Clay Kaptur Rush Congress assembled, time. That is just wrong, Mr. Speaker. Cleaver Kelly (IL) Ryan (OH) And, yes, we need more mitigation SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Clyburn Kennedy Sa´ nchez money. We need better flood control Cohen Kihuen Sarbanes This Act may be cited as the ‘‘National Connolly Kildee Schakowsky Flood Insurance Program Extension Act of projects. The House bill had more flood Cooper Kind Schiff 2018’’. mitigation money than any other re- Costa Langevin Schrader SEC. 2. PROGRAM EXTENSION. form bill, but this bill before us has no Courtney Larsen (WA) Scott (VA) Crowley Larson (CT) (a) FINANCING.—Section 1309(a) of the Na- reforms. Serrano Finances: This is a program that the Cummings Lawrence Shea-Porter tional Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. Davis, Danny Lee Sherman 4016(a)) is amended by striking ‘‘September taxpayer has subsidized so far by $40 DeFazio Levin Smith (WA) 30, 2017’’ and inserting ‘‘November 30, 2018’’. billion. Some of the debt has been for- DeGette Lewis (GA) Soto (b) PROGRAM EXPIRATION.—Section 1319 of DeLauro Lofgren given, but it runs a billion-and-a-half Takano the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (42 Demings Lowenthal dollar deficit every single year, Mr. Thompson (CA) DeSaulnier Lowey U.S.C. 4026) is amended by striking ‘‘Sep- Thompson (MS) tember 30, 2017’’ and inserting ‘‘November 30, Speaker. It is unsustainable. The Con- Deutch Lujan Grisham, gressional Budget Office says it, the Doggett M. Titus 2018’’. Tsongas GAO says it, the OMB says it. It is an Doyle, Michael Luja´ n, Ben Ray The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- F. Maloney, Vela´ zquez unsustainable program. The finances Visclosky ant to the rule, the gentleman from Engel Carolyn B. do not work. Eshoo Matsui Wasserman Texas (Mr. HENSARLING) and the gen- Schultz And then last, but not least, Mr. Espaillat McCollum tlewoman from California (Ms. MAXINE Esty (CT) McEachin Waters, Maxine Speaker, it is a government monopoly. WATERS) each will control 20 minutes. Evans McGovern Watson Coleman It is a government monopoly when peo- The Chair recognizes the gentleman Foster McNerney Welch ple could, through a competitive mar- Frankel (FL) Meeks Wilson (FL) from Texas. Fudge Meng Yarmuth ketplace, actually get more affordable GENERAL LEAVE flood insurance. And that is just not a NOT VOTING—13 Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I theory. That is happening as we speak. Black Hartzler Speier ask unanimous consent that all Mem- In the small little bit of the market- Blackburn Long Walz bers have 5 legislative days to revise Ellison Moore Yoder place that is open to competition, peo- Graves (MO) Noem and extend their remarks and include ple are saving hundreds, if not thou- Hanabusa Smith (MO) extraneous material on the bill. sands of dollars in places like Pennsyl- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there b 1715 vania, and in places like Florida. We objection to the request of the gen- had testimony in our committee. And Mr. POLIS changed his vote from tleman from Texas? so it is just rather disappointing that, ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ There was no objection. again, we face the seventh time of not So the bill was passed. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I reforming a program that has no mar- The result of the vote was announced yield myself such time as I may con- ket competition, and that is fiscally as above recorded. sume. unsustainable, and, yet, we continue to A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. Speaker, I come to the floor see premiums skyrocket in the govern- the table. today to do something I do not often ment monopoly. Stated for: do, and that is: I have asked my leader- Mr. Speaker, I do want to thank the Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, because I am at ship to put a bill on the floor that I do gentleman from California (Mr. ROYCE) home recuperating from a medical procedure, not support. and the gentleman on the other side of I unavoidably missed the following vote on I am talking about the bill that the aisle, Mr. BLUMENAUER from Or- July 24. Had I been present, I would have would provide for a non-reform reau- egon. They tried to put together a re- voted as follows: on rollcall No. 372, I would thorization of the National Flood In- form package with the most minimal have voted ‘‘yea’’ (Passage of H.R. 184—Pro- surance Program through the end of level of reforms, and, unfortunately, it tect Medical Innovation Act of 2017). November. To make it very clear, Mr. did not appear to carry the day. PERSONAL EXPLANATION Speaker, I believe this program needs I suspect we will soon cast, with an Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- to be reauthorized, and the House has overwhelming vote, a clean reauthor- ably absent on rollcall Votes 368, 369, 370, done its work. The House passed a bill ization, but I don’t think they are 371 and 372. I would have voted ‘‘no’’ on all with reforms last November. Never un- going to take it up in the Senate. five rollcall votes. derestimate the Senate’s capacity to Maybe I am wrong, in which case, we f do nothing. will have to deal with this. And I would Unfortunately, the Senate has done just simply again ask, particularly for ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER nothing. But this is a program, Mr. the people on my side of the aisle—I PRO TEMPORE Speaker, that continues to be in dire think it helps maybe once or twice a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- need of reform. And now, we have reau- month if we ask ourselves Ronald Rea- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair thorized it without reforms, not once, gan’s eternal question: ‘‘If not us, who? will postpone further proceedings not twice, not three times, not four If not now, when?’’ today on additional motions to suspend times, not five times, but six times Mr. Speaker, I invite somebody to the rules on which a recorded vote or since the Financial Services Com- answer that question for me, and I re- the yeas and nays are ordered, or votes mittee first reported this bill out. serve the balance of my time. objected to under clause 6 of rule XX. Enough is enough. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. The House will resume proceedings Mr. Speaker, in America, we lost 116 Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time on postponed questions at a later time. lives last year to flooding, with billions as I may consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.026 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Mr. Speaker, since the National and I really want to thank my col- Now, I do plan to vote in favor of this Flood Insurance Program’s multiyear league, Mr. MACARTHUR from New Jer- bill, but I do so with deep consterna- authorization expired on September 30, sey, for his leadership in bringing this tion that we are, yet again, passing a 2017, ideological differences have led amendment forward, which would reau- short-term reauthorization. This will Congress to pass six short-term exten- thorize the National Flood Insurance be the seventh short-term extension for sions, and have even allowed the pro- Program on a short-term basis through the NFIP in the last 10 months. This is gram to briefly lapse twice since the hurricane season. somewhat embarrassing, or should be, government shutdowns. Why are we here, Mr. Speaker? We to all of us. More than 5 million families rely on are here because, first of all, the House If we fail to reauthorize the program, the NFIP for affordable flood insurance did take strong action to pass a 5-year the NFIP will not be able to issue new coverage. Communities rely on the reauthorization of NFIP that included policies, and borrowing authority NFIP for flood maps and mitigation as- really important reforms, reforms that would be limited. A lapse in authoriza- sistance, and small businesses rely on I was happy to work with the chairman tion during the height of hurricane sea- the NFIP to pick up the pieces when on to pass through the House. son could have serious ramifications the inevitable storm hits. Yet, the b 1730 for communities that have already long-term stability of this critical pro- weathered last year’s severe storms. But, ultimately, as the bill went over gram continues to fall victim to par- When the Financial Services Com- to the Senate, we kept hearing story tisan politics. mittee began to consider the NFIP re- after story that the Senate was going Mr. Speaker, 2017 was an absolutely authorization, I had advocated for a to pass something, and then a month catastrophic year in terms of hurri- long-term reauthorization. I met with would go by and another month would canes and other national disasters. In Mr. DUFFY many, many times. We dis- 2017, for the first time on record, three go by, and, ultimately, the Senate still hasn’t passed anything to reauthorize cussed that a long-term reauthoriza- Category 4 hurricanes made landfall in tion of 5 or even 10 years would provide the United States, serving as painful this program. So it leaves us here lit- erally days before the program expires. policyholders and stakeholders with reminders of the importance of afford- certainty. It would give industry sta- able and accessible flood insurance. Mr. Speaker, we can’t play some game of chicken with the lives of mil- bility, communities a chance to de- While Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and velop mitigation plans, and policy- Maria may be a distant memory for lions of families that represent, by the way, all 50 States. All 50 States partici- holders peace of mind. some, families affected by these storms Affordability must remain a central are still just beginning their long road pate in the National Flood Insurance Program. This isn’t something that component of any long-term plan to re- to recovery, and we continue to learn vamp the NFIP. Rates are already in- about the challenges that families in just applies to coastal communities. creasing for many policyholders, and Puerto Rico face with no signs of lead- You have got every inland State as we need to ensure that homeowners ership from the Trump administration. well that have families that rely on We are here today in the midst of the this program to work. who rely on the NFIP for protection 2018 hurricane season with no credible Mr. Speaker, what kind of program are not priced out of the program. Additionally, I have urged my col- plan to do anything differently from would we like to see? I would love to leagues to consider the forgiving of the the partisan gamesmanship that has see a vibrant marketplace with private brought the NFIP to the brink of a sector company after private sector NFIP’s debt. Though the NFIP has lapse several times already this Con- company that would offer options to been self-sustaining for many years, gress. families just like we have with car in- extreme and unexpected damage fol- Mr. Speaker, I am deeply dis- surance or homeowners insurance. But lowing Hurricane Katrina and appointed that Congress continues to we don’t have that today. So what we Superstorm Sandy left the NFIP with a miss opportunities to responsibly help need to do is usher in reforms like the $20 billion debt. Now the NFIP con- homeowners, businesses, and renters Ross-Castor legislation, Mr. Speaker, tinues to pay over $400 million a year who all need access to affordable flood that I am a cosponsor of. Ross-Castor, in interest, and this is ridiculous. insurance by taking sensible steps to by the way, was included in the House- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The stabilize flood insurance premiums, passed bill. time of the gentleman has expired. deal with the NFIP’s debt and invest in There are other important reforms Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. up-to-date and accurate flood maps. that encourage communities to get Mr. Speaker, I yield the gentleman Instead, the House has passed con- better mapping from FEMA. Some of from Missouri an additional 1 minute. troversial and ideological reforms that those reforms were included in the Mr. CLEAVER. The NFIP continues make flood insurance more expensive, Royce-Blumenauer legislation which, to pay over $400 million a year in inter- less available, and less fair, which is, was also in the House-passed bill. est. That is money that could go to- obviously, going nowhere in the Sen- So we could talk about the reforms wards making improvements in the ate. that are needed, and I encourage us to program or helping enhance afford- Given the critical importance of the get those kind of reforms done. But at ability. We need to wipe the slate clean NFIP to our housing market, I am the midnight hour, let’s at least keep and give the NFIP a fresh start. pleased that we are taking the small this program going for a few more Lastly, enhancing mapping tech- step today of reauthorizing the pro- months while we continue negotiating, nology and increasing litigation re- gram for 4 months to at least provide and let’s get a long-term deal that ac- sources will go a long way in improving some level of certainty to businesses tually has the reforms that will make the program and preparing commu- and families, but let us not be fooled this a sustainable program with pri- nities for prevention and recovery ef- into thinking that our work is done. I vate sector involvement for years to forts. have led the effort for years to provide come. To be sure, I am pleased that we are long-term reauthorizations of the NFIP Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote. voting to keep the NFIP up and run- that also ensure the affordability and Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. ning for the next 4 months, but I re- the availability of flood insurance, and Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the main concerned that we have been un- I will continue to do so when this lat- gentleman from Missouri (Mr. able to agree on a long-term plan. I est short-term extension expires in No- CLEAVER), who is the ranking member again urge my colleagues to come to vember. of the Housing and Insurance Sub- the table in a bipartisan manner for a Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of committee of the Financial Services solution and for the updating of the my time. Committee. NFIP. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I am now very pleased to yield 2 minutes this evening to support the House yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. amendment to S. 1182, the National Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA), who is the SCALISE), the majority whip. Flood Insurance Program Extension chairman of our Capital Markets, Se- Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank Act of 2018. This bill would provide a curities, and Investments Sub- the gentleman from Texas for yielding, clean, 4-month extension for the NFIP. committee.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.085 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7127 Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise I know what happens when we are, A $56,000 home in Louisiana flooded today with deep hesitation in sup- unfortunately, coping with hurricanes more than 40 times at a cost of $430,000; porting another clean extension of the such as Katrina, which cost us $160 bil- A $72,000 home in Texas that flooded National Flood Insurance Program lion. I saw what happened in New Orle- again last year cost taxpayers over $1 through November of this year. While I ans, Louisiana, after Katrina. The million in payouts. completely agree that letting this pro- ranking member and I were there on I came to the floor today hoping to gram lapse in the middle of hurricane the ground to see how people who had support a bill that Mr. BLUMENAUER season is deeply problematic, it is in- been quite prosperous were now having and I authored that would have ex- conceivable to me that even extremely to abandon what was their home, and tended the flood program with what modest reforms to this troubled pro- they had to move to other places. The The Wall Street Journal called de gram are not included in this legisla- Astrodome in Houston, Texas, became minimis policy changes that have tion. the home for many thousands of people broad, bipartisan support, which would The House amendment to S. 1182 is a who were fleeing the aftermath of do something about the fact that you simple piece of legislation with a sim- Katrina. have got fewer than 2 percent of the 5 ple extension. What is notable, how- I saw what happened after Harvey million policies that have absorbed ever, is the fact that the legislation and how people were suffering and try- more than $8 billion of the payments contains none of the reforms passed by ing to go back into homes that were because we don’t have these reforms. this House in a bipartisan manner in completely devastated. They had no- That is not in this bill before us. November, nor does the legislation con- where else to go. Unfortunately, I oppose this can- tain any of the more modest reforms So we have no choice. We must reau- kicking exercise, and I urge my col- recently introduced by my colleagues thorize. And 4 months, while it seems leagues to do the same. from California and Oregon, Represent- like it is an inappropriate amount of Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. atives ROYCE and BLUMENAUER. time, does give us some additional Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Mr. Speaker, as the gentleman from time. My hope is that we will come to gentleman from Oregon (Mr. BLU- Missouri said, this will be extension some conclusion that will be accept- MENAUER), who has long pushed for re- number 7 in less than a year. This is able such that we can have a long-term ducing flood risk in this country. even after Congress forgave that $16 extension. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I The Realtors are constantly calling billion in NFIP debt, all while fewer appreciate the gentlewoman’s courtesy to my attention the need for certainty than 2 percent of the 5 million policies in permitting me to speak on this, and in this program. It helps the economy that are out there have absorbed more I am pleased to follow my friend from than $8 billion in payments. to have certainty. My belief is we can California (Mr. ROYCE). These numbers are staggering. In- have certainty, and we must extend. This is troubling for me, his ref- stead of passing clean extension after The SPEAKER pro tempore. The erence here to 38 extensions without clean extension, the Senate should—no, time of the gentleman has expired. reform. I have been working on this for wait a minute—the Senate must do its Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. 20 years. This is the 41st time, and we job and take up bipartisan reform that Mr. Speaker, I yield the gentleman an had one back in 2004 with my friend, we passed in November. additional 30 seconds. I urge my colleagues to be respon- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. My belief is Doug Bereuter, where we had some sible and work toward crafting a long- we must have certainty and we must small steps, but they were anticipatory term reauthorization of this, a pro- extend. My belief also is this: If not us, of being able to make greater reforms. gram that needs to shift towards risk- who will extend it? If not now, when I am vexed that we continue to move based rates, increasing private sector will we extend it? forward and dodge some hard facts. We involvement in the program, and to ad- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I are subsidizing too much for people dress repetitive loss properties, all of yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from who grow complacent. which will put the program on a more California (Mr. ROYCE), who is the I am concerned about affordability. sustainable financial path. chairman of the House Foreign Affairs There are things we can do to deal with I grew up in a floodplain in Michigan Committee and a very senior member affordability, but that doesn’t mean to right along Lake Michigan and the of the Financial Services Committee. have massive subsidization for people Great Lakes. This is real for those of Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- who don’t need it and, in fact, encour- us in west Michigan. But at the end of er, we stand here doing what we have age people to be in harm’s way and, in the day, with this legislation, a ‘‘no’’ done, I guess, 38 times now since 1998, fact, after they are flooded out, to go vote is not a lack of willingness or in- and that is passing an extension of the back, putting them in harm’s way terest to address this issue, as it may National Flood Insurance Program again. be portrayed; but, equally, a ‘‘yes’’ without the much-needed reforms that There are simple, commonsense steps vote should not be acceptance of the should be in that program. This is un- we can take. There were things that status quo. Hopefully, by this bill mov- acceptable. Mr. ROYCE and I had that are sort of ing forward, there may be action in the Subsidized flood insurance represents the lowest common denominator. I am Senate. what economists call a moral hazard, deeply troubled that we are going to do Frankly, at the end of the day, Mem- and let me tell you why. We tell Ameri- this again without dealing with the bers are being put in an impossible no- cans that if you buy flood insurance problems. win situation; not for us, Mr. Speaker, from Uncle Sam, no matter how many I just want to say that it is not just but for our constituents, the taxpayers, times your house floods, we will give financial hardship and it is not just it is a no-win situation. you money to rebuild it. wasting of money. Our failure to re- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. We haven’t worked to decrease that form the Flood Insurance Program Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the moral hazard through reform; rather, puts people at risk. Every one of these gentleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN), we have embraced and refueled it, and massive events shows that people will who is the ranking member of the Sub- we make it more difficult for people to go back, trying to deal with a family committee on Oversight and Investiga- move than rebuild. member; they are dealing with their tions of the Financial Services Com- We fail to encourage communities to business, or they are dealing with a mittee. mitigate flood risk. We continue to pet. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- build in high-risk areas. The clearest b 1745 er, I, too, am not enthralled with the sign of moral hazard is the number of idea of a temporary fix. My preference repeatedly flooded properties that are People die because we fail to take is a long-term remedy. rebuilt with little deference to mitiga- steps to reform and make it work While we have different reasons for tion. right. being opposed to a temporary fix, the I will give you some examples: I appreciate the ranking member, the truth is we have no choice at this A $90,000 home in Missouri has been chair, Mr. DUFFY, and Mr. ROYCE. point. In about a week, the program flooded, now, 34 times, at a cost of There is a path forward. This bill is not will expire. more than $600,000; the path forward.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.087 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 I don’t want it to lapse. I don’t want place that is going to flood so all their industry. A good deal of that time, I disruption. But it is hard for me to sit family heirlooms are flooded and lost? worked on this program. I know it, I here and vote ‘‘yes’’ for something that That whole concept is irrational. would guess, better than anyone here, doesn’t do the minimum. We don’t do Mr. Speaker, the reality is that all of and I know what it does for people. I anybody any favors along this path. us want this program to be solvent. We know its weaknesses as well. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I all want to have a solution. We all Mr. Speaker, 140 million Americans yield 1 minute to the gentleman from want to have reforms. The things that live in coastal counties today. They are Missouri (Mr. LUETKEMEYER), the are being pushed aren’t the reforms ordinary Americans, mostly of mod- chairman of our Financial Institutions that are going to result in solvency. erate means. I represent many of these and Consumer Credit Subcommittee. The reforms that are being pushed are folks in Ocean County, New Jersey. Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, strictly a defense. You don’t go out on These are the victims of disasters like the National Flood Insurance Program the field and just play defense. Sandy, and they absolutely depend is critical to millions of Americans We need to lean forward. We need to upon this program. who need access to affordable flood in- integrate some of our efforts on miti- In October, the House passed a bill surance, but it is also in desperate need gation, some of our Corps of Engineers that I worked on and I supported, a 5- of reform. The current construct of the levee projects, some of our hazard miti- year reauthorization with modest in- NFIP doesn’t serve anyone well. Tax- gation grant program funds through creases in premiums, increased mitiga- payers are left unprotected, and the FEMA, look where we can protect tion dollars, and instilled some ac- program continues to offer antiquated areas and where that is the most cost- countability at FEMA. It was too much policies and provides insufficient cov- effective solution, and not tell every- reform for some, not enough for others. erage. FEMA continues to hold a mo- one: You are out of your house, or we But it was absolutely necessary that nopoly in the flood insurance space, are going to charge you unaffordable we do that. The Senate has totally leaving policyholders with no freedom rates. failed to act. to choose a policy that works best for Mr. Speaker, think about this for So, what do we do today? We hold them. just a minute. I represent the State of every homeowner along the coast hos- Mr. Speaker, last year, we came to- Louisiana. We drain from Montana to tage? We cannot do that. gether as a body and passed com- two Canadian provinces to New York. The NFIP program has $30 billion of prehensive NFIP reform. Unfortu- All that water comes and drains down borrowing capacity. That drops to $1 nately, the Senate has failed to do any- through our State. It is one of the larg- billion if this lapses. That is a modest thing with those even modest reforms est watersheds in the world. More event in this country. How do we look that we had in that bill. Tomorrow, we water is coming to us now. the American people in the eye after a are probably going to pass another bill So, yes, we are more vulnerable. But storm and say: We don’t have the and kick the can down the road. We the people who live in these homes and money that you have been paying pre- will probably do the same thing in No- businesses are innocent. Folks are try- miums for. How do we do that? How do vember. ing to charge them more for something we shut down the real estate market? Mr. Speaker, I oppose this bill be- they have no control over. That is not If you can’t get a mortgage, you cause I think it is time to make some American. That is not okay. can’t buy a home. And you cannot get reforms. It is time to take a stand and We are in hurricane season right a mortgage in coastal counties without do something to protect the taxpayers now, Mr. Speaker. We are in hurricane flood insurance. who are on the hook for all of what I The SPEAKER pro tempore. The season, where we need to provide peo- call the mismanagement of this agency time of the gentleman has expired. ple certainty. Let’s be crystal clear on and for these continued risks to indi- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I what this bill is and what it is not. A viduals who are policyholders of these yield the gentleman from New Jersey ‘‘yes’’ vote provides people certainty policies who continue to live in dan- an additional 30 seconds. during hurricane season. It provides gerous areas. Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, we Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. certainty to Realtors, homeowners, cannot pull the rug out from under- Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the and homebuilders. A ‘‘no’’ vote kills neath the people depending on this pro- gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. the National Flood Insurance Program gram. GRAVES), who has been a true leader on and leaves people with complete uncer- I will continue to work with the com- the National Flood Insurance Program. tainty and in limbo. mittee, with our chairman, and with He comes with a very, very important I want to thank the gentleman from the Senate, which needs to get off their background. He was chairman of Lou- New Jersey for proposing this bill and back sides and do something. They isiana’s Coastal Protection and Res- for bringing it up, because this is so have done nothing on this. I will con- toration Authority. So I am pleased to important. We have had 220 disasters, tinue to work. But in the meantime, have worked with him, to have talked each costing more than $1 billion since we must continue this program until with him, and to understand that we 1980. In total, we spent approximately the end of hurricane season. That is need him when we are working on the $1.5 trillion responding to these disas- why I chose the date November 30 on reforms that we will work on after we ters. this bill. That is the last day of hurri- pass this bill. Mr. Speaker, there are similar pro- cane season. Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. grams that exist. Right now, there is Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues, Speaker, I want to thank the gentle- Price-Anderson for nuclear power whatever your reservations, support it, woman for yielding. plants and TRIA for terrorism risk in- and we will keep working on reforms. Mr. Speaker, this discussion needs to surance, where the government pro- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. have a reset. It needs to have a reset vides a safety net. I agree that we need Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the because I keep hearing people sit here to reform these programs, but we need gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. talking about repetitive floods and how to do it in a way that does not penalize PALAZZO), continuing in this bipartisan there is a certain set of these flood vic- the innocent. Until we get to that effort to pass a clean bill. He has long tims who are costing this program all point, we need to do an extension to been a champion of the National Flood sorts of problems and money. provide certainty and to ensure we Insurance Program. Mr. Speaker, do you really believe make it through hurricane season, and Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I thank people want to be flooded? Do you we have a rational debate. the gentlewoman for yielding. think people want to have everything Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I We are 1 week away from July 31— they own underwater and have to yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman that is 7 days—which means the dead- throw it all out? from New Jersey (Mr. MACARTHUR), line to reauthorize the National Flood Anybody who believes that has obvi- who is also the author of the legisla- Insurance Program is nearing very ously never stepped foot in a flooded tion for the reauthorization bill before fast. home, never spoken to a flood victim. us. I would like to thank Mr. MAC- Do you really think people inten- Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I ARTHUR for understanding the impor- tionally want to build their home in a spent about 30 years in the insurance tance of avoiding a lapse in the NFIP

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.090 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7129 program and for introducing legisla- I urge my colleagues to support the Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I tion that will continue coverage for passage of this temporary extension, yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from millions of policyholders. and I urge the Senate to get back to Wisconsin (Mr. DUFFY), the chairman We know that flooding always has work. of our Subcommittee on Housing and been and will continue to be the most Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Insurance and the author of the real costly natural phenomenon humanity Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of flood reform bill. faces. my time. Mr. DUFFY. Mr. Speaker, I thank I support this amendment to extend Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I the chairman for yielding. This is a the National Flood Insurance Program yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from rich conversation. I am hearing my col- through the end of the 2018 hurricane Texas (Mr. BABIN). leagues saying: We are almost out of season and urge my colleagues to do Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I represent time. We have to reauthorize the pro- the same. a working coastal community. Our gram. We can’t let it expire. Policyholders who rely on the pro- communities in Texas District 36 were The truth is, we have known for gram to insure their homes from flood- hit very, very hard by Hurricane Har- months that this program was going to ing should not be caught in limbo while vey, and our Nation’s energy security expire. We have known. And many of Congress works on coming together in relies on those communities. us have tried to go to those who have a bipartisan manner to reauthorize the Coastal energy and petrochemical re- disagreed on any kind of flood reform program. fining facilities like the 150 that I rep- to craft a deal, to craft a compromise, While I, along with many of my col- resent cannot function without a but, lo and behold, there was no will- leagues, support reform in the pro- steady and reliable workforce, and that ingness to come together and find a gram, the time to enact bipartisan re- workforce cannot exist without a sta- compromise on flood reform. forms is gone for now. We have to take ble housing market. It was: No, no. We want to come to immediate action. If the NFIP lapses, I am hopeful that my House col- the very end and pretend like it is a policyholders will not have the oppor- leagues will have the wisdom to see the crisis and we have to extend the pro- tunity to renew their policies and tens necessity of passing S. 1182, so that we gram because we can’t put people in of thousands of home sale closings can maintain this national security harm’s way. would be negatively impacted by a pro- issue. By the way, this program puts people gram lapse. We are in the middle of the Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. in harm’s way. We know that people 2018 hurricane season, and a major dis- Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the don’t want to flood, just like people ruption in the program will be detri- balance of my time don’t want to get in a car crash and mental to homeowners in every corner Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I they don’t want their house to burn. of the United States. yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from But if 2 times, 4 times, 10 times some- It is our duty to ensure that flood in- Louisiana (Mr. ABRAHAM). one’s house burns, we might say: Hey, surance remains affordable and avail- Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, allow- we have got a problem with that. able to our constituents. Since 1968, ing the NFIP to expire is simply not an Maybe we should look at where you are this program has helped protect option. It would be catastrophic on fi- living. against flooding. Since its inception, nancial markets. But more impor- If someone gets in a car crash 2 the NFIP has saved the government tantly, for that family sitting around times, 5 times, 10 times, 15 times, we billions of dollars. the table, it would be catastrophic. might say: Hey, you have got a prob- We are providing our constituents Chairman HENSARLING and Majority lem, maybe, with your driving. with certainty by supporting this bill, Whip SCALISE had a good reform bill, But with flood insurance, we say: and I urge my colleagues to join me in but the Senate needs to act. Until that Listen, you can flood 1 time, 5 times, 10 voting to extend the NFIP through the happens, we have to reauthorize this, times—and guess what? You can flood end of the 2018 hurricane season. so that the next hurricane doesn’t have 10 times, 15 times, and your premiums Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I a devastating effect on the economy don’t go up at all. You are grand- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from and families. fathered in. Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS), the vice I urge my colleagues to support this When my daughter crashed our car chairman of the Financial Institutions bill. twice, guess what happened to my pre- Subcommittee. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. miums? They went through the roof. Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the But with flood insurance, your pre- support of the House amendment to S. balance of my time. miums don’t go up. 1182, the National Flood Insurance Pro- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Let’s fix this program. There are gram Extension Act. yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from commonsense reforms that we can im- This summer has been a challenging Louisiana (Mr. HIGGINS). plement. We are not asking for the bill time for western Pennsylvania, where Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. Mr. that I introduced last year. We have summer storms have caused dev- Speaker, I have a map in my office that said: Hey, maybe we can look at the se- astating floods. Residents are still re- shows the areas of the United States vere repetitive loss properties, the ones covering from the damage. At the same that have been impacted by flood. It is that are only 3 percent of those in the time, the NFIP, the National Flood In- virtually the entire country. NFIP but account for 25 percent of the surance Program, is close to lapsing. This is the House of ‘‘We the People.’’ losses. Maybe we could address those That is because, like so many things This is an easy ‘‘yes’’ vote. I urge my properties. we have done in the House, the Senate colleagues on my side of the aisle to Maybe we could find some little bit has failed to act. try to explain to the American people of reform that could make the program We know the NFIP is in need of re- how you can vote ‘‘yes’’ six times on an work better. It is $20.5 billion in debt, form. As a member of the Financial extension and ‘‘no’’ the seventh time. and we already forgave $16 billion in Services Committee, I applaud Chair- We did our job in November. We debt. It is under water, to use a pun. men HENSARLING and DUFFY for their passed some comprehensive reforms to Let’s work on fixing it. Let’s help work to craft a bipartisan bill that we the NFIP, a 5-year authorization. The people get out of harm’s way. Reform have passed. Many of these reforms in Senate has failed. We serve the people. does that, Mr. Speaker. Let’s get it this bill are bipartisan. They are non- This is right for the people. done. controversial. Pennsylvania’s own in- I urge my colleagues to step up and Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. surance commissioner, a Democratic vote ‘‘yes’’ on this extension. We don’t Mr. Speaker, I am so pleased to hear appointee, even testified before our like it, but we serve the people. This that some of my friends on the oppo- committee in support of the private bill is for the people. site side of the aisle are going to co- flood insurance provisions that are es- operate in a reauthorization bill, tak- sential to improving consumer choice. b 1800 ing into consideration many of the con- Unfortunately, the Senate is stalled. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. cerns. We should continue urging Senators to Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the I do want you to know that I sent a take action, in the meantime. balance of my time. letter out just July 18, Mr. Speaker, 61

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.091 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7130 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Members signed this letter for reau- before. In fact, we have had 41 reau- (2) in subsection (a), by adding at the end thorization. I want you to know that I thorizations of this program, 38 with no the following new paragraph: understand that we have differences, reforms. ‘‘(4) ADDITIONAL INDIVIDUALS COVERED.—For and I understand that I am focused on So, a vote for S. 1182 is a vote for the purposes of this section, the following indi- viduals shall be treated as a servicemember affordability as one of the important status quo. And what is the status quo? covered by paragraph (1): aspects of any reauthorization bill. The status quo is people in harm’s way ‘‘(A) A spouse of a servicemember who dies I do know that some on the other who have homes that flood five, six, while in military service or a spouse of a side are concerned about how many seven, and eight times, putting their member of the reserve components who dies times flooding will take place where lives in danger and burdening the tax- while performing duty described in subpara- people will have to be reestablished, payer at the same time. graph (B). the homes rebuilt, repairs done, how A vote for S. 1182 is a vote to ensure ‘‘(B) A member of the reserve components many times. I know all of that. We that we continue to have more red ink performing military service or performing know all of that. But we are here now, as far as the eye can see. Mr. Speaker, full-time National Guard duty, active Guard and Reserve duty, or inactive-duty training and we have no choice. We have got to $40 billion of taxpayer subsidies to the (as such terms are defined in section 101(d) of pass this bill this evening. A clear bill program already. A vote for S. 1182 is a title 10, United States Code).’’; that will reauthorize for 4 months, and vote to protect a government monop- (3) in subsection (b), by striking ‘‘cellular then let’s have Mr. DUFFY have another oly. telephone service or telephone exchange shout out loud about how we are going The ranking member spoke about af- service’’ and inserting ‘‘commercial mobile to do a long-term reauthorization bill fordability. Well, the irony is, if we had service, telephone exchange service, Internet when we take up the bill after the 4 market competition, we would have access service, or multichannel video pro- months. more affordable flood insurance, but we gramming service’’; Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of don’t have market competition. (4) in subsection (c), by inserting ‘‘for com- mercial mobile service or telephone ex- my time. When is enough enough? When do we Mr. HENSARLING. I am prepared to change service’’ before ‘‘terminated’’; finally act? If we can vote down this, (5) in subsection (d), in the matter pre- close, Mr. Speaker. I think I have the we can vote in favor of reforms, which ceding paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘cellular right to close. is what we should have done in the telephone service’’ and inserting ‘‘commer- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. first place. For us to do the same thing cial mobile service’’; Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers, over and over again and expect a dif- (6) in subsection (e)— and I am prepared to close. ferent result, we all know, Mr. Speak- (A) by striking ‘‘For any’’ and inserting Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the re- er, is the very definition of insanity. the following: mainder of my time. I have no doubt this thing will be ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For any’’; Mr. Speaker, partisan gamesmanship (B) by striking ‘‘If the’’ and inserting the voted ‘‘aye,’’ but it shouldn’t be, and it following: and harmful reforms passed out of the is a sad day for the House. house stalled the NFIP’s long-term re- ‘‘(2) REINSTATEMENT OF SERVICE.—If the’’; Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance and authorization for long enough. While I of my time. (C) by adding at the end the following: would prefer a longer term reauthoriza- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ‘‘(3) RETURN OF PROVIDER-OWNED EQUIP- tion of this important program, I question is on the motion offered by MENT.—If a servicemember terminates a con- strongly support today’s 4-month ex- the gentleman from Texas (Mr. HEN- tract under subsection (a), the servicemem- tension to provide homeowners, busi- SARLING) that the House suspend the ber shall return any provider-owned con- nesses, renters, and communities with rules and pass the bill, S. 1182, as sumer premises equipment to the service the certainty they deserve. provider not later than 10 days after the date amended. on which service is disconnected.’’; and But make no mistake. This short- The question was taken. term reauthorization does not absolve (7) in subsection (g)— The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the (A) by redesignating paragraph (2) as para- Congress of its responsibility to reau- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being graph (4); and thorize the flood insurance program for in the affirmative, the ayes have it. (B) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the long term. It is past time for Con- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on the following: gress to do its job and pass a long-term that I demand the yeas and nays. ‘‘(1) The term ‘commercial mobile service’ reauthorization that will ensure Amer- The yeas and nays were ordered. has the meaning given that term in section icans are protected this and every hur- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 332(d) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 ricane season to come. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- U.S.C. 332(d)). Mr. Speaker, flooding is truly a hum- ceedings on this motion will be post- ‘‘(2) The term ‘multichannel video pro- bling and equalizing force. It brings out gramming service’ means a subscription poned. video service offered by a multichannel video the best of America during the worst of f programming distributor, as that term is de- times, with everyone putting aside ALLOWING SERVICEMEMBERS TO fined in section 602 of the Communications their differences to come together to Act of 1934 (47 U.S.C. 522), over a system the help one another in our time of need. TERMINATE THEIR CABLE, SAT- distributor owns or controls. Now it is time for Congress to do the ELLITE TELEVISION, AND INTER- ‘‘(3) The term ‘provider-owned consumer same thing. We must put partisanship NET ACCESS SERVICE CON- premises equipment’ means any equipment and ideology aside and ensure the con- TRACTS that a provider of Internet access service or tinued affordability and availability of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I multichannel video programming service move to suspend the rules and pass the rents or loans to a customer during the pro- coverage for millions of Americans. vision of that service, including gateways, The long-term reauthorization of the bill (H.R. 2409) to allow servicemem- routers, cable modems, voice-capable NFIP that ensures affordable flood in- bers to terminate their cable, satellite modems, CableCARDs, converters, digital surance continues to be available to television, and Internet access service adapters, remote controls, and any other communities across our country must contracts while deployed, as amended. equipment provided.’’. be Congress’ priority when we return The Clerk read the title of the bill. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.— from the August recess. The text of the bill is as follows: (1) TITLE HEADING.—The heading for title Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance H.R. 2409 III of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act is amended by striking ‘‘TELEPHONE’’ and in- of my time. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- serting ‘‘COMMUNICATIONS’’. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, resentatives of the United States of America in (2) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- Congress assembled, may I inquire how much time I have tents in section 1(b) of the Servicemembers remaining. SECTION 1. TERMINATION OF MULTICHANNEL Civil Relief Act is amended— The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- VIDEO PROGRAMMING AND INTER- NET ACCESS SERVICE CONTRACTS. (A) by striking the item relating to title tleman from Texas has 11⁄2 minutes re- III and inserting the following: (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 305A of the maining. Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C. ‘‘TITLE III—RENT, INSTALLMENT CON- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I 3956) is amended— TRACTS, MORTGAGES, LIENS, ASSIGN- yield myself the balance of my time. (1) in the section heading, by inserting ‘‘, MENT, LEASES, COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Speaker, de´ja` vu all over again. MULTICHANNEL VIDEO PROGRAMMING, AND SERVICE CONTRACTS’’; This House has been here many times INTERNET ACCESS’’ after ‘‘TELEPHONE’’; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:34 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.093 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7131 (B) by striking the item relating to section the rights of servicemembers and al- b 1815 305A and inserting the following: lowing them to fulfill their service ob- Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise ‘‘Sec. 305A. Termination of telephone, mul- ligations. today in support of this bill, which will tichannel video programming, I would like to thank the chairman allow our servicemembers to terminate and Internet access service con- for working with the minority to tracts.’’. their cable, satellite television, and match this bill to the changes we are internet contracts once they receive The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. making under H.R. 5882, as amended, orders to relocate for more than 90 FITZPATRICK). Pursuant to the rule, the the Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief days. gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. ROE) Act, which we will also be voting on Listen, we ask a lot of our military and the gentleman from California (Mr. today. personnel and their families. I know TAKANO) each will control 20 minutes. I would also like to thank the chair- that because my district is home to so The Chair recognizes the gentleman man for working with us on including many veterans and Active-Duty serv- from Tennessee. National Guard and reservist service- icemembers. I met with these amazing, GENERAL LEAVE members who are killed while on duty. talented men and women, and they are Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Lastly, I want to recognize Mr. KIL- so impressive. They step up and they ask unanimous consent that all Mem- MER and Mr. MCGOVERN for working sacrifice. They are constantly being bers may have 5 legislative days in with Mr. COSTELLO to bring this impor- asked to uproot themselves and their which to revise and extend their re- tant bill forward. families across this country and all marks and insert extraneous material. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of over the world, often on very short no- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there my time. tice; and when their country calls, the objection to the request of the gen- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I members of our Armed Forces drop ev- tleman from Tennessee? yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from erything. They have our backs, and we There was no objection. Pennsylvania (Mr. COSTELLO), author should have their backs, too. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I of the bill and former member of the Deployed servicemembers and their yield myself such time as I may con- Committee on Veterans Affairs. families shouldn’t have to worry about sume. Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. Mr. bills piling up at home when they are Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. gone because they are locked into con- of H.R. 2409, as amended. 2409, bipartisan legislation I introduced tracts for television and the internet. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, with Congressman KILMER. In the last few days at home with their SCRA, was enacted by Congress to pro- I want to thank Congressman KILMER kids and spouses, they shouldn’t have tect Active Duty servicemembers and for his work with me on this bill. I also to spend a second on hold or haggling members of the National Guard and want to recognize the very stellar lead- with a customer service representative. Reserve from financial charges and ju- ership of Chairman ROE on the VA I am very proud to have worked dicial obligations that could incur due Committee and Ranking Member across the aisle on this bill with Rep- to their military service. TAKANO, as well as all the VA staff resentative RYAN COSTELLO. Taking As most Americans know, cell phone seated behind me and those not seated care of our military families is an issue companies charge early-termination behind me, but who work every day to that all Americans, regardless of party, fees if a user cancels an agreement for make that a highly performing com- can stand behind, and I want to express service with the carrier before their mittee here in the House. my gratitude to the chairman for his contract has expired. SCRA currently When our brave servicemembers are leadership on those issues and Ranking allows a servicemember who is ordered preparing to relocate or deploy because Member TAKANO and others on that to move or deploy for longer than 90 of Active Duty orders, they should not committee. days to cancel their cell phone con- have to navigate costly and time-con- Listen, this bill will provide a small tract without paying those fees. How- suming cancelation fees and policies. measure of relief to our military mem- ever, it does not explicitly protect Under current law, protections are bers and to their families. It is the servicemembers from having to pay granted to servicemembers with mili- least we can do. I urge my colleagues early-termination fees for cable, sat- tary orders for certain civil agree- to support this bill. ellite TV, or Internet access contracts. ments, including rental leases or cell Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I H.R. 2409, as amended, which is spon- phone contracts; but they cannot ter- have no further speakers, and I reserve sored by Congressman RYAN COSTELLO minate their cable, satellite television, the balance of my time. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask my of Pennsylvania, would fix this in- and Internet access service contracts colleagues to join me in passing H.R. equity. I am grateful for his efforts in while deployed without incurring 2409, as amended, and I yield back the this bill to acknowledge that service- early-termination fees. balance of my time. Our legislation, very simply, fixes members would be given the same type Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I of protections for cable, satellite TV, this by updating the Servicemembers was thinking here, as we were listening and Internet contracts as those already Civil Relief Act to include pay TV and to the testimony, when I went into the in place for cell phone devices. Internet service contracts. While some Army many, many years ago to go to The bill would also extend those pro- States already do provide relief for pay Southeast Asia, there was no internet, tections to surviving spouses of serv- TV or Internet services, this legisla- there was no cable TV, and there were icemembers who are killed while on tion would update the act to enact a no cell phones, so it was pretty easy for Active Duty. policy at the Federal level, ensuring me to leave then. There wasn’t much Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman servicemembers and their families re- to leave. But things have changed a lot COSTELLO for bringing this bill forward, ceive uniform assistance no matter in since then. I encourage all Members to and I reserve the balance of my time. which State they reside. support H.R. 2409, as amended. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, I would again like to Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance myself such time as I may consume. thank Chairman ROE for his support of my time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. and his work to pass H.R. 2409. I would The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 2409, as amended, to allow certain serv- also like to thank Andrew and Erica in question is on the motion offered by icemembers to terminate their cable, my office for their work on this impor- the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. satellite television, and Internet serv- tant bill as well. ROE) that the House suspend the rules ice contracts while deployed. This is an Mr. Speaker, it is our responsibility and pass the bill, H.R. 2409, as amend- important part of modernizing the to help provide peace of mind to our ed. Servicemembers Civil Relief Act and servicemembers and their families The question was taken; and (two- helps it reflect the current lifestyle of when they prepare to deploy, so I urge thirds being in the affirmative) the servicemembers. my colleagues to support this bill. rules were suspended and the bill, as Internet and television access have Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 amended, was passed. become necessities in the modern minutes to the gentleman from Wash- A motion to reconsider was laid on world. The SCRA is key to protecting ington (Mr. KILMER), my good friend. the table.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.030 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7132 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 VETERANS-SPECIFIC EDUCATION (C) A majority of the observational hours subsection (c) within 30 days of selection, to FOR TOMORROW’S HEALTH PRO- shall be spent observing a health profes- facilitate program awareness. FESSIONALS ACT sional. The other observational hours shall (f) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after be spent in a manner that ensures a robust, the completion of the pilot program under Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I well rounded experience that exposes the subsection (a), the Secretary shall submit to move to suspend the rules and pass the students to a variety of aspects of medical the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the bill (H.R. 2787) to establish in the De- care and health care administration. House of Representatives and the Senate a partment of Veterans Affairs a pilot (D) Each session shall provide a diverse report on the results of the pilot program, program instituting a clinical observa- clinical observation experience. including— (d) STUDENTS.— (1) the number and demographics of all ap- tion program for pre-med students pre- (1) SELECTION.—The Secretary shall select plicants, those accepted to participate in the paring to attend medical school, as to participate in the pilot program under pilot program, and those who completed the amended. subsection (a) students who are— pilot program; and The Clerk read the title of the bill. (A) nationals of the United States; (2) if participating institutions of higher The text of the bill is as follows: (B) enrolled in an accredited program of education choose to administer satisfaction study at an institution of higher education; H.R. 2787 surveys that assess the experience of those and who completed the pilot program, the results Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (C) referred by their institution of higher of any such satisfaction surveys, provided at resentatives of the United States of America in education following an internal application the discretion of the institution of higher Congress assembled, process. education. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (2) PRIORITY.—In making such selection, SEC. 4. NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Veterans- the Secretary shall give priority to each of No additional funds are authorized to be Specific Education for Tomorrow’s Health the following five categories of students: appropriated to carry out the requirements Professionals Act’’ or the ‘‘Vet HP Act’’. (A) Students who, at the time of the com- of this Act. Such requirements shall be car- SEC. 2. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING DE- pletion of their secondary education, resided ried out using amounts otherwise authorized PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS in a health professional shortage area (as de- to be appropriated. PILOT PROGRAM FOR CLINICAL OB- fined in section 332 of the Public Health SERVATION BY UNDERGRADUATE Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254e)). The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- STUDENTS. (B) First generation college students (as ant to the rule, the gentleman from It is the sense of Congress that the pilot defined in section 402A(h)(3) of the Higher Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman program described in section 3(a) should be Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a))). from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will designed to— (C) Students who have been referred by mi- control 20 minutes. (1) increase the awareness, knowledge, and nority-serving institutions (as defined in sec- The Chair recognizes the gentleman empathy of future health professionals to- tion 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of from Tennessee. ward the health conditions common to vet- 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1067q(a))). erans; (D) Veterans (as defined in section 101 of GENERAL LEAVE (2) increase the diversity of the recruit- title 38, United States Code). Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ment pool of future physicians of the Depart- (E) Students who indicate an intention to ask unanimous consent that all Mem- ment; and specialize in a health professional occupa- bers have 5 legislative days to revise (3) expand clinical observation opportuni- tion identified by the Inspector General of and extend their remarks and insert ties for all students by encouraging students the Department under section 7412 of title 38, extraneous material. of all backgrounds to consider a career in the United States Code, as having a staffing The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there health professions. shortage. objection to the request of the gen- SEC. 3. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (3) ASSIGNMENT TO MEDICAL CENTERS.—The PILOT PROGRAM FOR CLINICAL OB- Secretary shall assign students selected tleman from Tennessee? SERVATION BY UNDERGRADUATE under paragraph (1) to medical centers se- There was no objection. STUDENTS. lected under subsection (b) without regard Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary of Vet- for whether such medical centers have staff- yield myself such time as I may con- erans Affairs shall carry out a pilot program ing shortages in any health professional oc- sume. for a one-year period, beginning not later cupation pursuant to section 7412 of title 38, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support than August 15, 2021, to provide certain stu- United States Code. of H.R. 2787, as amended, the Veterans- dents described in subsection (d) a clinical (e) OTHER MATTERS.—In carrying out the Specific Education for Tomorrow’s observation experience at medical centers of pilot program under this section, the Sec- Health Professionals Act. The bill the Department of Veterans Affairs. retary shall— (b) MEDICAL CENTER SELECTION.—The Sec- (1) establish a formal status to facilitate would create a pilot program to pro- retary shall carry out the pilot program the access to medical centers of the Depart- vide undergraduate students with a under this section at not fewer than five ment by student observers participating in clinical observation experience at the medical centers of the Department. In se- the pilot program; Department of Veterans Affairs med- lecting such medical centers, the Secretary (2) establish standardized legal, privacy, ical centers. shall ensure regional diversity among such and ethical requirements for the student ob- The pilot would give prospective pro- selected medical centers. servers, including with respect to— viders a window into the healthcare (c) CLINICAL OBSERVATION SESSIONS.— (A) ensuring that no student observer pro- profession that would help inform their (1) FREQUENCY AND DURATION.—In carrying vides any care to patients while partici- out the pilot program, the Secretary shall— pating as an observer; and educational paths and careers. It would (A) provide at least one and not more than (B) ensuring the suitability of a student to also provide them an early introduc- three clinical observation sessions at each participate in the pilot program to ensure tion to both the VA healthcare system medical center selected during each calendar that the student poses no risk to patients; and the medical conditions common year; (3) develop and implement a partnership among our Nation’s veterans. (B) ensure that each clinical observation strategy with minority-serving institutions VA has a number of recruitment and session— to encourage referrals; retention challenges, one of which is an (i) lasts between four and six months; and (4) create standardized procedures for stu- aging workforce that is increasingly (ii) to the extent practicable, begins and dent observers; retirement eligible. Given that, it is ends concurrently with one or more aca- (5) create an online information page about demic terms of an institution of higher edu- the pilot program on the internet website of imperative that VA take every avail- cation (as defined in section 101 of the Higher the Department; able opportunity to engage young clini- Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001)); and (6) publish on the online information page cians and make a concerted effort to (C) ensure that the clinical observation created under paragraph (5) the locations of attract them to a career serving vet- sessions provided at a medical center have such centers, and other information on the erans within the VA healthcare sys- minimal overlap. pilot program, not later than 180 days before tem. (2) SESSIONS.—The Secretary shall ensure the date on which applications are required This bill is sponsored by the Con- that the pilot program consists of clinical to be submitted by potential student observ- gresswoman from Ohio, MARCY KAP- observation sessions as follows: ers; TUR, and I appreciate her efforts. I urge (A) Each session shall allow for not fewer (7) identify medical centers and specific than five students nor greater than 15 stu- health professionals participating in the my colleagues to support this bill. dents to participate in the session. pilot program; and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of (B) Each session shall consist of not fewer (8) notify the Committees on Veterans’ Af- my time. than 20 observational hours nor greater than fairs of the House of Representatives and the Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 40 observational hours. Senate of the medical centers selected under myself such time as I may consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.098 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7133 Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. Swope, my legislative assistant, on lation takes so much time to win its 2787, as amended, the Vet MD Act. this important issue, for her work way through, but an idea that was very The Department of Veterans Affairs, throughout. worthy moved through and, I think, in like the Nation, is experiencing a Through their own struggle, these record time. shortage of healthcare providers. With students struggled to gain access to So, again, Mr. Speaker, I urge my shortages in areas like mental clinical observation, experience so crit- colleagues to join me in passing H.R. healthcare and medical administra- ical in medical circles, and they real- 2787, as amended, and I yield back the tion, it can become increasingly dif- ized an immense opportunity was miss- balance of my time. ficult to maintain a facility’s effi- ing. The bill prioritizes students in Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ciency and quality. That is why it is medically underserved areas; first-gen- yield myself the balance of my time. increasingly important to promote eration college students, of which I was In closing, I, too, came from rural medical education and employment one; students referred by minority- America, and I, too, am a first-genera- serving institutions; and, of course, within VA as soon in a student’s edu- tion college graduate and had an oppor- veterans. cational career as is possible. tunity to use the public education sys- This bill allows VA to capture stu- The Vet MD Act creates a pipeline for future physicians and medical pro- tem to go to college and medical dents as they complete their school. After that, then mentored and premedical undergraduate degrees by fessionals and prioritizes training for students who specialize in a health pro- taught for over 25 years in medical offering them the opportunity to shad- school, so I had a chance to see young ow medical professionals in VA facili- fession where there is a serious staffing shortage. This important step will help students, and I think this is a fantastic ties. Not only does this create a famili- idea. arity with VA among the students, but narrow the gap and ensure we are training pre-health students in careers I thank my colleagues on the other allows VA to continue to do one of the side of the aisle for bringing this for- things it does best: educate the Na- that are in demand and necessary. I can tell you, in every hospital sys- ward. To bring a young person in who tion’s future healthcare providers. has never had a chance to be in that I appreciate the hard work of my col- tem I represent, there is an unmet de- mand. Thousands and thousands of in- sort of environment and expose them league, Representative KAPTUR, and to this, you don’t know what sort of urge my colleagues to vote in favor of dividuals are needed. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The light bulb you are going to turn on in the Vet MD Act. their head to encourage them and men- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of time of the gentlewoman has expired. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield an tor them. And many of them will be- my time. additional 45 seconds to the gentle- come passionate about medicine, nurs- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I woman from Ohio. ing, physical therapy, occupational reserve the balance of my time. Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, impor- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 therapy, audiology, PTSD treatment. I tantly, pre-health students in the pilot minutes to the gentlewoman from Ohio could go on and on. I think this is a will gain a deeper understanding of vet- great idea. I strongly encourage all (Ms. KAPTUR), the author of this bill. erans’ specific health needs and experi- Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank Members to support H.R. 2787, as ences, which is critical for health pro- amended. Ranking Member TAKANO for his great fessionals who treat veterans, many of support and for yielding me the time, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance whom have complex conditions, as the and I thank Chairman ROE very much of my time. chair and ranking member know. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The for moving this bill through his com- One of our top responsibilities as a mittee. question is on the motion offered by Congress is to ensure that our vet- the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. H.R. 2787, the Vet MD Act, also called erans, those who have sacrificed so the Veterans-Specific Education for ROE) that the House suspend the rules much for our country and for liberty’s and pass the bill, H.R. 2787, as amend- Tomorrow’s Health Professionals Act, I cause, receive high-quality healthcare am honored to speak on its behalf this ed. from highly trained health profes- The question was taken; and (two- evening. sionals. This bill furthers that effort, The Vet MD Act works to break down thirds being in the affirmative) the and I am pleased it will get a vote this barriers and expand opportunities for rules were suspended and the bill, as evening. healthcare professionals to get training amended, was passed. I thank my colleagues: Mr. TAKANO, to care for our veterans. The bill cre- for his diligent work on this bill; Rank- A motion to reconsider was laid on ates a 3-year pilot program for pre- the table. ing Member WALZ; and Chairman ROE, health undergraduate students to gain for bringing this bill to the floor so ex- clinical observation experience within peditiously. On behalf of our health f at least five VA medical centers. professionals, our veterans, myself, and Health schools recommend or require all the cosponsors, I can’t thank you INCLUDING ADDITIONAL PERIODS clinical observation hours, but there is enough. OF ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE IN no formal process to apply for these Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- hours. Opportunities to shadow are have no further speakers, and I am pre- FAIRS VOCATIONAL REHABILITA- limited and are based on where you go pared to close. TION PROGRAMS to school or whom you know; and stu- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I dents who attend schools outside major myself such time as I may consume. cities, as well as those whose families Mr. Speaker, as I was listening to my move to suspend the rules and pass the lack connections to the medical com- friend from the State of Ohio, I was bill (H.R. 5538) to amend title 38, munity, find it harder and harder to struck by just how the process of legis- United States Code, to provide for the shadow and are disadvantaged in med- lating in this body works, how ideas inclusion of certain additional periods ical school admissions. This places an come from very real people seeking to of active duty service for purposes of unfair burden on otherwise qualified solve problems through their Rep- suspending charges to veterans’ enti- students who come from less affluent resentative. And I watched this legisla- tlement to educational assistance communities or rural areas. tion move through committee, the gen- under the laws administered by the Several years ago, two premedical tlewoman graciously accepting the Secretary of Veterans Affairs during undergraduate students highlighted to changes and approving the bill. periods of suspended participation in my team the struggles disadvantaged, I know that my colleague from Ten- vocational rehabilitation programs. minority, and other young people who nessee, a doctor himself, cares so much The Clerk read the title of the bill. lack personal connections face as they about medical education. We worked The text of the bill is as follows: apply for medical school. So I thank together on expanding the number of H.R. 5538 Seamus Carragher and Andrew Frank medical residencies. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- for bringing this serious omission to I am delighted this bill has come to resentatives of the United States of America in our attention, and I thank Carrie the floor so expeditiously. Often, legis- Congress assembled,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.099 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7134 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 SECTION 1. INCLUSION OF CERTAIN ADDITIONAL Reserve components from a strategic within 12 years. Any months or years PERIODS OF ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE reserve to an operational reserve con- spent deployed should not count FOR PURPOSES OF SUSPENSION OF CHARGES TO ENTITLEMENT DURING cept, it is critically important that we against this time clock. PERIODS OF SUSPENDED PARTICI- modernize our statutes to ensure bene- Currently, two reservists serving side PATION IN DEPARTMENT OF VET- fits parity while servicemembers are in by side in Active Duty may not have ERANS AFFAIRS VOCATIONAL REHA- BILITATION PROGRAMS. uniform. This is a step in the right di- access to the same vocational rehab Section 3105(e)(2) of title 38, United States rection. benefits just because of the authority Code, is amended by striking ‘‘or 12304’’ and With this bill, Congress has the op- under which they have been mobilized. inserting ‘‘12304, 12304a, or 12304b’’. portunity to be proactive, instead of Additionally, reservists involuntarily The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- reactive, to the needs of our service- called up may be leaving their family ant to the rule, the gentleman from members. or a civilian job without notice, com- Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. PETERS for pared to a reservist who volunteered. from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will bringing this issue forward and identi- In both cases, these guardsmen and control 20 minutes. fying a fix. He is a reliable and critical reservists served honorably in missions The Chair recognizes the gentleman advocate for our country’s National to support combat zones. They have from Tennessee. Guard and Reserve servicemembers. I earned the same employment and edu- GENERAL LEAVE also thank Mr. BERGMAN for reaching cation benefits as every other reservist Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I across the aisle and joining Mr. PETERS throughout their service. My bill, the Reserve Component Vo- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- in introducing this bill. And I thank cational Rehabilitation Parity Act, en- bers have 5 legislative days to revise the co-chairs of the House’s National sures that reservists and guardsmen and extend their remarks and insert Guard and Reserve Components Cau- have access to the full 12 years of voca- extraneous material. cus, Mr. WALZ and Mr. PALAZZO, for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there supporting the initiative. Lastly, I tional rehab benefits by pausing the objection to the request of the gen- thank the six other members of our clock during their service. I am happy to have received the sup- tleman from Tennessee? committee who were original cospon- port of the National Guard Association There was no objection. sors of the bill, including Mr. of the United States and the Reserve Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I O’ROURKE, Ms. BROWNLEY, and Ms. Officers Association in this effort. yield myself such time as I may con- KUSTER. I urge Congress to pass this bill so sume. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of that all of our veterans can access the Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support my time. education benefits they earned. of H.R. 5538. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I thank General Under current law, if a member of Bergman, who joined me to introduce the Guard or Reserve is called to Ac- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- this bill, and seven of our committee tive Duty under certain orders while colleagues who cosponsored the bill, as receiving training through the Depart- fornia (Mr. PETERS), a member of the Mr. TAKANO said. I also thank Chair- ment of Veterans Affairs Vocational Veterans’ Affairs Committee, the au- man ROE, a wonderful chairman; Rank- Rehabilitation and Employment pro- thor of this bill, and my good friend. Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I thank ing Member WALZ; and the Veterans’ gram, the charges for that training are Affairs Committee staff for their stead- waived. However, those charges are not Mr. TAKANO for yielding. I appreciate his commitment to improving the lives fast work to support our Nation’s vet- waived for members of the Guard or erans. Reserve who are called up under orders of veterans, their families, and the communities. The Reserve Component Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues regarding emergency response or aug- for their strong support of the bill, and mentation of overseas combat forces. Vocational Rehabilitation Parity Act, my bill before the House today, aims to I urge its passage. This creates a disparity. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I continue investing in veterans, specifi- H.R. 5538 would address that dis- reserve the balance of my time. cally those still fighting for our Na- parity and level the playing field by Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I urge tion. waiving training charges for all serv- my colleagues to join me in passing Our veterans have served our coun- icemembers, regardless of which Ac- H.R. 5538, and I yield back the balance try, and it is our duty to make sure tive-Duty orders they are serving of my time. under. they can access the resources that they Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I have earned. Many guardsmen and re- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of thank Mr. PETERS for bringing up this my time. servists have realized that they didn’t much-needed piece of legislation and qualify for all their benefits after the b 1830 correcting this inequity. It wasn’t in- Department of Defense began using tended, but now this Congress has a Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield their new authority created to call up chance, in a bipartisan way, to correct myself such time as I may consume. Reserve components for involuntary this. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. service. This new authority uninten- Mr. Speaker, I encourage all Mem- 5538, the Reserve Component Voca- tionally excluded these reservists. bers to support H.R. 5538, and I yield tional Rehabilitation Parity Act. Thankfully, Ranking Member WALZ back the balance of my time. This bill protects an overlooked pro- and Mr. PALAZZO took the lead to fix The SPEAKER pro tempore. The vision related to our National Guard several of these inconsistencies. We question is on the motion offered by and Reserve servicemembers who are passed a few of these fixes in the For- the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. mobilized under 12304b authorities. ever GI Bill last year. This week, we ROE) that the House suspend the rules This bill allows servicemembers to are also passing other bills to make and pass the bill, H.R. 5538. pause the clock on the 12-year limit to sure benefits are properly extended. The question was taken; and (two- use vocational rehabilitation programs One unresolved issue, though, was ac- thirds being in the affirmative) the while mobilized on Active Duty orders. cess to vocational rehabilitation. This rules were suspended and the bill was Currently, this is allowed for mostly VA program provides access to edu- passed. mobilization authorities, but this par- cation and critical job training that A motion to reconsider was laid on ticular authority was overlooked. Sim- helps servicemembers and veterans de- the table. ply, the bill adds to 12304a and 12304b velop their career plan after service. f authorities to the 12304 provision al- Vocational rehab helps veterans de- ready listed within the statute. termine transferable skills that will NAVY SEAL CHIEF PETTY OFFI- This is an important fix because of lead to good jobs and what additional CER WILLIAM ‘‘BILL’’ MULDER the increased use of 12304b authority by skills they need to fulfill their career (RET.) TRANSITION IMPROVE- the Department of Defense over the goals. MENTS ACT OF 2018 past few years, and the increases Upon separation, a veteran must use Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I planned for the future. As we move the his or her vocational rehab benefits move to suspend the rules and pass the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.032 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7135 bill (H.R. 5649) to amend titles 10 and and Other Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act military departments may provide information 38, United States Code, to amend the of 2012 (Public Law 112–260; 10 U.S.C. 1144 note) in the list to members of the Armed Forces who Social Security Act, and to direct the is amended— participate in TAP. Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, De- (1) by striking ‘‘During the two-year period (c) ONLINE PUBLICATION.—The Secretary of beginning on the date of the enactment of this Veterans Affairs shall publish the most recent fense, Labor, and Homeland Security, Act, the’’ and inserting ‘‘During the five-year version of the list of programs identified under and the Administrator of the Small period beginning on the date of the enactment this section on a public website of the Depart- Business Administration, to take cer- of the Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer William ment of Veterans Affairs. tain actions to improve transition as- ‘Bill’ Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improvement Act SEC. 105. ONE-YEAR INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT sistance to members of the Armed of 2018, the’’; and OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TAP. Forces who separate, retire, or are dis- (2) by striking ‘‘to assess the feasibility and (a) INDEPENDENT ASSESSMENT.—Not later than charged from the Armed Forces, and advisability of providing such program to eligi- 90 days after the date of the enactment of this ble individuals at locations other than military for other purposes, as amended. Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in con- installations’’. sultation with the covered officials, shall enter The Clerk read the title of the bill. (b) LOCATIONS.—Subsection (c) of such section The text of the bill is as follows: into an agreement with an appropriate entity is amended— with experience in adult education to carry out H.R. 5649 (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘not less a one-year independent assessment of TAP, in- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- than three and not more than five States’’ and cluding— resentatives of the United States of America in inserting ‘‘not less than 50 locations in States (1) the effectiveness of TAP for members of Congress assembled, (as defined in section 101(20) of title 38, United each military department during the entire mili- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. States Code)’’; and tary life cycle; This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Navy SEAL (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘at least (2) the appropriateness of the TAP career Chief Petty Officer William ‘Bill’ Mulder (Ret.) two’’ and inserting ‘‘at least 20’’. readiness standards; Transition Improvement Act of 2018’’. (c) CONFORMING REPEAL.—Subsection (f) of (3) a review of information that is provided to such section is repealed. SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS. the Department of Veterans Affairs under TAP, The table of contents for this Act is as follows: SEC. 103. GRANTS FOR PROVISION OF TRANSI- including mental health data; TION ASSISTANCE TO MEMBERS OF (4) whether TAP effectively addresses the Sec. 1. Short title. THE ARMED FORCES AFTER SEPARA- challenges veterans face entering the civilian Sec. 2. Table of contents. TION, RETIREMENT, OR DISCHARGE. workforce and in translating experience and Sec. 3. Definitions. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans skills from military service to the job market; Affairs shall make grants to eligible organiza- TITLE I—IMPROVEMENTS TO TRANSITION (5) whether TAP effectively addresses the tions for the provision of transition assistance to ASSISTANCE challenges faced by the families of veterans members of the Armed Forces who are sepa- Sec. 101. Access for the Secretaries of Labor and making the transition to civilian life; rated, retired, or discharged from the Armed Veterans Affairs to the Federal (6) appropriate metrics regarding TAP out- Forces, and spouses of such members. directory of new hires. comes for members of the Armed Forces one year (b) USE OF FUNDS.—The recipient of a grant Sec. 102. Pilot program for off-base transition after separation, retirement, or discharge from under this section shall use the grant to provide training for veterans and spouses. the Armed Forces; to members of the Armed Forces and spouses de- Sec. 103. Grants for provision of transition as- (7) what the Secretary, in consultation with scribed in subsection (a) resume assistance, sistance to members of the Armed the covered officials, veterans service organiza- interview training, job recruitment training, and Forces after separation, retire- tions, and organizations described in section related services leading directly to successful ment, or discharge. 203(a) of this Act, determine to be successful transition, as determined by the Secretary. Sec. 104. Study of community-based transition outcomes for TAP; (c) ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS.—To be eligible assistance programs for members (8) whether members of the Armed Forces for a grant under this section, an organization of the Armed Forces after separa- achieve successful outcomes for TAP, as deter- shall submit to the Secretary an application tion, retirement, or discharge. mined under paragraph (7); containing such information and assurances as Sec. 105. One-year independent assessment of (9) how the Secretary and the covered officials the Secretary, in consultation with the Sec- the effectiveness of TAP. provide feedback to each other regarding such retary of Labor, may require. Sec. 106. Longitudinal study on changes to outcomes; (d) PRIORITY FOR HUBS OF SERVICES.—In TAP. (10) recommendations for the Secretaries of making grants under this section, the Secretary TITLE II—EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE the military departments regarding how to im- shall give priority to an organization that pro- prove outcomes for members of the Armed Forces Sec. 201. Improvements to assistance for certain vides multiple forms of services described in sub- after separation, retirement, and discharge; and flight training and other pro- section (b). grams of education. (11) other topics the Secretary and the covered (e) AMOUNT OF GRANT.—A grant under this officials determine would aid members of the Sec. 202. Elimination of the period of eligibility section shall be in an amount that does not ex- Armed Forces as they transition to civilian life. for the Vocational Rehabilitation ceed 50 percent of the amount required by the (b) REPORT.—Not later than 90 days after the and Employment program of the organization to provide the services described in completion of the independent assessment under Department of Veterans Affairs. subsection (b). Sec. 203. Educational assistance during ex- subsection (a), the Secretary and the covered of- (f) DEADLINE.—The Secretary shall carry out tended school closures due to nat- ficials, shall submit to the Committees on Vet- this section not later than six months after the ural disasters. erans’ Affairs of the Senate and House of Rep- effective date of this Act. resentatives and the Committees on Armed Serv- SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. (g) TERMINATION.—The authority to provide a ices of the Senate and House of Representa- In this Act: grant under this section shall terminate on the tives— (1) The term ‘‘TAP’’ means the Transition As- date that is five years after the date on which (1) the findings and recommendations (includ- sistance Program under sections 1142 and 1144 the Secretary implements the grant program ing recommended legislation) of the independent of title 10, United States Code. under this section. assessment prepared by the entity described in (2) The term ‘‘military departments’’ has the (h) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— meaning given that term in section 101 of title There is authorized to be appropriated subsection (a); and 10, United States Code. $10,000,000 to carry out this section. (2) responses of the Secretary and the covered TITLE I—IMPROVEMENTS TO TRANSITION officials to the findings and recommendations SEC. 104. STUDY OF COMMUNITY-BASED TRANSI- described in paragraph (1). ASSISTANCE TION ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES (c) COVERED OFFICIALS DEFINED.—In this sec- SEC. 101. ACCESS FOR THE SECRETARIES OF tion, the term ‘‘covered officials’’ is comprised LABOR AND VETERANS AFFAIRS TO AFTER SEPARATION, RETIREMENT, THE FEDERAL DIRECTORY OF NEW OR DISCHARGE. of— HIRES. (a) STUDY.—The Secretary of Veterans Af- (1) the Secretary of Defense; Section 453A(h) of the Social Security Act (42 fairs, in consultation with State entities that (2) the Secretary of Labor; U.S.C. 653a(h)) is amended by adding at the end serve members of the Armed Forces who are re- (3) the Administrator of the Small Business the following new paragraph: tired, separated, or discharged from the Armed Administration; and ‘‘(4) VETERAN EMPLOYMENT.—The Secretaries Forces, shall enter into an agreement with an (4) the Secretaries of the military departments. of Labor and of Veterans Affairs shall have ac- appropriate non-Federal entity to carry out a SEC. 106. LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON CHANGES TO cess to information reported by employers pursu- study to identify community-based programs— TAP. ant to subsection (b) of this section for purposes (1) that provide transition assistance to such (a) STUDY.—Not later than 90 days after the of tracking employment of veterans.’’. members; and date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary SEC. 102. PILOT PROGRAM FOR OFF-BASE TRANSI- (2) operated by nonprofit entities. of Veterans Affairs, in consultation with the TION TRAINING FOR VETERANS AND (b) TRANSMISSION TO MEMBERS.—The Sec- Secretaries of Defense and Labor and the Ad- SPOUSES. retary of Veterans Affairs shall transmit the list ministrator of the Small Business Administra- (a) EXTENSION OF PILOT PROGRAM.—Sub- of programs identified under this section to the tion, shall conduct a five-year longitudinal section (a) of section 301 of the Dignified Burial Secretary of Defense so the Secretaries of the study regarding TAP on three separate cohorts

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.104 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7136 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 of members of the Armed Forces who have sepa- school or institution of higher learning in which shall apply with respect to a quarter, semester, rated from the Armed Forces, including— flight training is required to earn the degree or term, as applicable, commencing on or after (1) a cohort that has attended TAP counseling being pursued (including with respect to a dual the date of the enactment of this Act. as implemented on the date of the enactment of major, concentration, or other element of such a (2) SPECIAL RULE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS.—In this Act; degree) may elect to receive accelerated pay- the case of an individual who, as of the date of (2) a cohort that attends TAP counseling after ments of amounts for tuition and fees deter- the enactment of this Act, is using educational the Secretaries of Defense and Labor implement mined under subsection (c). The amount of each assistance under chapter 33 of title 38, United changes recommended in the report under sec- accelerated payment shall be an amount equal States Code, to pursue a course of education tion 205(b) of this Act; and to twice the amount for tuition and fee so deter- that includes a program of education described (3) a cohort that has not attended TAP coun- mined under such subsection, but the total in item (bb) or (cc) of section 3313(c)(1)(A)(ii)(II) seling. amount of such payments may not exceed the of title 38, United States Code, as added by sub- (b) PROGRESS REPORTS.—Not later than 90 total amount of tuition and fees for the program sections (c) and (d), respectively, the amend- days after the day that is one year after the of education. The amount of monthly stipends ment made by such subsection shall apply with date of the initiation of the study under sub- shall be determined in accordance with such respect to a quarter, semester, or term, as appli- section (a) and annually thereafter for the three subsection (c) and may not be accelerated under cable, commencing on or after the date that is subsequent years, the Secretaries of Veterans this paragraph. two years after the date of the enactment of this Affairs, Defense, and Labor, and the Adminis- ‘‘(2) EDUCATIONAL COUNSELING.—An indi- Act. trator of the Small Business Administration, vidual may make an election under paragraph SEC. 202. ELIMINATION OF THE PERIOD OF ELIGI- shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ Af- (1) only if the individual receives educational BILITY FOR THE VOCATIONAL REHA- fairs of the Senate and House of Representatives counseling under section 3697A(a) of this title. BILITATION AND EMPLOYMENT PRO- GRAM OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VET- and the Committees on Armed Services of the ‘‘(3) CHARGE AGAINST ENTITLEMENT.—The ERANS AFFAIRS. Senate and House of Representatives a progress number of months of entitlement charged an in- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 3103 of title 38, report of activities under the study during the dividual for accelerated payments made pursu- United States Code, is repealed. immediately preceding year. ant to paragraph (1) shall be determined at the (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of sec- (c) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than 180 days rate of two months for each month in which tions at the beginning of chapter 31 of such title after the completion of the study under sub- such an accelerated payment is made.’’. is amended by striking the item relating to sec- section (a), the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, (c) FLIGHT TRAINING AT PUBLIC INSTITU- tion 3103. Defense, and Labor, and the Administrator of TIONS.—Subsection (c)(1)(A) of such section 3313 the Small Business Administration, shall submit SEC. 203. EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE DURING EX- is amended— TENDED SCHOOL CLOSURES DUE TO to the Committees on Veterans’ Affairs of the (1) in clause (i)— NATURAL DISASTERS. Senate and House of Representatives and the (A) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as Section 3680 of title 38, United States Code, is Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and items (aa) and (bb), respectively; amended by adding at the end the following House of Representatives a report of final find- (B) by striking ‘‘In the case of a program of new subsection: ings and recommendations based on the study. education pursued at a public institution of ‘‘(h) SCHOOL CLOSURE DURING NATURAL DIS- (d) ELEMENTS.—The final report under sub- higher learning’’ and inserting ‘‘(I) Subject to ASTERS.— section (c) shall include information regarding subclause (II), in the case of a program of edu- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—An individual described in the following: cation pursued at a public institution of higher paragraph (2) shall be entitled to a monthly sti- (1) The percentage of each cohort that re- learning not described in clause (ii)(II)(bb)’’; pend in the amount to which the individual ceived unemployment benefits during the study. and would be entitled were the individual pursuing (2) The numbers of months members of each (C) by adding at the end the following new a course of education at an institution of higher cohort were employed during the study. subclause: education through resident training but for a (3) Annual starting and ending salaries of ‘‘(II) In determining the actual net cost for in- school closure described under paragraph (4). members of each cohort who were employed dur- State tuition and fees pursuant to subclause (I), ‘‘(2) INDIVIDUAL DESCRIBED.—An individual ing the study. the Secretary may not pay for tuition and fees described in this paragraph is an individual (4) How many members of each cohort enrolled relating to flight training.’’; and pursuing a course of education at an institution in an institution of higher learning, as that (2) in clause (ii)— of higher education using educational assist- term is defined in section 3452(f) of title 38, (A) in subclause (I), by redesignating items ance under chapter 32, 33, 34, or 35 of this title, United States Code. (aa) and (bb) as subitems (AA) and (BB), re- who— (5) The academic credit hours, degrees, and spectively; ‘‘(A) is forced to discontinue pursuing such certificates obtained by members of each cohort (B) in subclause (II), by redesignating items course at such institution by reason of a school during the study. (aa) and (bb) as subitems (AA) and (BB), re- closure described under paragraph (4); and (6) The annual income of members of each co- spectively; ‘‘(B) opts to— hort. (C) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as ‘‘(i) pursue that course of education solely by (7) The total household income of members of items (aa) and (bb), respectively; distance learning; or each cohort. (D) by striking ‘‘In the case of a program of ‘‘(ii) pursue an alternative course of edu- (8) How many members of each cohort own education pursued at a non-public or foreign in- cation solely by distance learning. their principal residences. stitution of higher learning’’ and inserting ‘‘(I) ‘‘(3) DURATION.—The duration of the monthly (9) How many dependents that members of In the case of a program of education described stipends payable to an individual under para- each cohort have. in subclause (II)’’; and graph (1) shall be the shorter of the following: (10) The percentage of each cohort that (E) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(A) The period of time necessary to complete achieves a successful outcome for TAP, as deter- subclause: the quarter, semester, term or academic period mined under section 205(a)(6) of this Act. ‘‘(II) A program of education described in this during which the school closure described in (11) Other criteria the Secretaries and the Ad- subclause is any of the following: paragraph (4) occurs. ministrator of the Small Business Administra- ‘‘(aa) A program of education pursued at a ‘‘(B) Four months. ‘‘(4) SCHOOL CLOSURE.—A school closure de- tion determine appropriate. non-public or foreign institution of higher scribed in this paragraph is the closure of an in- TITLE II—EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE learning. ‘‘(bb) A program of education pursued at a stitution of higher education— SEC. 201. IMPROVEMENTS TO ASSISTANCE FOR ‘‘(A) by reason of a natural disaster; CERTAIN FLIGHT TRAINING AND public institution of higher learning in which ‘‘(B) for a period of time that— OTHER PROGRAMS OF EDUCATION. flight training is required to earn the degree ‘‘(i) the institution confirms will last for four (a) USE OF ENTITLEMENT FOR PRIVATE PILOT’S being pursued (including with respect to a dual weeks or longer; or LICENSES.—Section 3034(d) of title 38, United major, concentration, or other element of such a ‘‘(ii) the institution describes as indefinite and States Code, is amended— degree).’’. that endures for a period of four weeks or (1) in paragraph (1) by striking the semicolon (d) CERTAIN PROGRAMS OF EDUCATION CAR- longer; and and inserting the following: ‘‘and is required for RIED OUT UNDER CONTRACT.—Section ‘‘(C) that the Secretary confirms is covered for the course of education being pursued (includ- 3313(c)(1)(A)(ii)(II) of title 38, United States purposes of this subsection. ing with respect to a dual major, concentration, Code, as added by subsection (c)(2)(E), is ‘‘(5) NATURAL DISASTER DEFINED.—In this sub- or other element of a degree); and’’; amended by adding at the end the following section, the term ‘natural disaster’ means a spe- (2) by striking paragraph (2); and new item: cific weather event or earth process, including a (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- ‘‘(cc) A program of education pursued at a hurricane, tornado, wildfire or forest fire, earth- graph (2). public institution of higher learning in which quake, avalanche, mudslide, hailstorm, thun- (b) ACCELERATED PAYMENTS FOR FLIGHT the public institution of higher learning enters derstorm, lightning storm, freeze, blizzard, sink- TRAINING.—Section 3313 of such title is amended into a contract or agreement with an entity hole, or other disastrous event that occurs as a by adding at the end the following new sub- (other than another public institution of higher result of such an event or process, that the section: learning) to provide such program of education President or the governor of a State declares a ‘‘(k) ACCELERATED PAYMENTS FOR CERTAIN or a portion of such program of education.’’. natural disaster. FLIGHT TRAINING.— (e) APPLICATION.— ‘‘(6) NO CHARGE TO ENTITLEMENT.—No charge ‘‘(1) PAYMENTS.—An individual enrolled in a (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided by para- shall be made to the entitlement of any indi- program of education pursued at a vocational graph (2), the amendments made by this section vidual to educational assistance under chapter

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.033 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7137 32, 33, 34, or 35 of this title by reason of a pay- ported H.R. 5649, as amended, the Navy zation partners, rigorous oversight, ment under this subsection.’’. SEAL Chief Petty Officer William ‘‘Bill’’ and many, many hearings. It includes a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improvement Act number of curriculum changes, expan- ant to the rule, the gentleman from of 2018. The bill was referred to the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee with additional sion of services, as well as first steps to Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman referrals to the House Ways and Means Com- making TAP a part of a larger transi- from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will mittee and the House Armed Services Com- tion effort. control 20 minutes. mittee. Based on our previous consultation, It also includes Ms. BROWNLEY’s Re- The Chair recognizes the gentleman we intend to request H.R. 5649, as amended, duce Unemployment for Veterans of from Tennessee. be scheduled for floor consideration. All Ages Act, which eliminates the pe- GENERAL LEAVE To expedite floor consideration, I ask that riod of eligibility for vocational reha- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I you forego further consideration of H.R. 5649, as amended. This in no way affects your ju- bilitation services. Currently, veterans ask unanimous consent that all Mem- have only 12 years after their military bers have 5 legislative days in which to risdiction over the subject matter of the bill, and it will not serve as precedent for future service to utilize vocational rehabilita- revise and extend their remarks and in- referrals. In addition, should a conference on tion services. This removes that dead- sert extraneous material. the bill be necessary, I would support your line and allows anyone who qualifies The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there request to have the House Ways and Means for vocational rehabilitation to access objection to the request of the gen- Committee represented on the conference those services in perpetuity. tleman from Tennessee? committee. Finally, I would be pleased to in- There was no objection. clude this letter and any response in the bill It also includes Mr. POE’s Veterans Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I report filed by the Committee on H.R. 5649, Education Disaster Act that provides yield myself such time as I may con- as amended, as well as in the Congressional continued educational assistance to sume. Record during floor consideration to memo- students impacted by natural disasters. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support rialize our understanding. This is similar to the benefits that are of H.R. 5649, as amended, the Navy Thank you for your consideration of my provided for veterans whose schools request. suddenly close their doors, in order to SEAL Chief Petty Officer William Sincerely, ensure that veterans are not struggling ‘‘Bill’’ Mulder (Ret.) Transition Im- DAVID P. ROE, M.D., provements Act of 2018. Chairman. while they seek to restart their edu- One of the most important things our cation. This would also allow veterans government can do to help our Nation’s HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, to continue collecting their housing servicemembers is to ensure that their COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, benefits even though their schools transition from military to civilian life Washington, DC, July 17, 2018. closed from natural disasters, and is as smooth and seamless as possible. Hon. DAVID P. ROE, M.D., allow them to stop and restart their We all know that an ounce of preven- Chairman, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, tuition benefits once their schools re- Washington, DC. tion is worth a pound of cure, and I DEAR CHAIRMAN ROE: Thank you for your open. know that so many of the problems July 16, 2018 letter regarding H.R. 5649, the We also pay for this bill by closing a that veterans encounter later in life ‘‘Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer William loophole in flight school costs, while could have been mitigated if they had a ‘‘Bill’’ Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improve- also making modifications to law that more supportive and successful transi- ment Act of 2018’’ which was ordered favor- allows for the unique nature of flight tion. ably reported to the House on July 12, 2018. schools. As a result of your having consulted with I know that the goal of this bill, and All of these provisions have been of provisions that are aimed at improv- us on provisions in H.R. 5649 that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on crafted to fix issues we have seen in the ing the transition period in the House Ways and Means, I agree to waive formal field, and they will make life a little version of the National Defense Au- consideration of this bill so that it may bit easier for our veterans. thorization Act, are to help service- move expeditiously to the floor. The Com- Mr. Speaker, again, I thank Mr. members have as smooth a transition mittee on Ways and Means takes this action O’ROURKE and Mr. ARRINGTON for these as possible to civilian life. with the mutual understanding that we do necessary improvements to the Transi- I will allow Congressman JODEY not waive any jurisdiction over the subject tion Assistance Program. A testament ARRINGTON of Texas, who is the sponsor matter contained in this or similar legisla- to their work is the broad support they of this bill, to go into the specifics of it tion, and the Committee will be appro- have received from committee mem- in a moment. But before I do, I want to priately consulted and involved as the bill or similar legislation moves forward so that we bers for this bill, including Ms. thank him, Congressman BETO may address any remaining issues that fall KUSTER, Mr. PETERS, and Ms. ESTY. I O’ROURKE of Texas, and all of the mem- within our jurisdiction. The Committee also look forward to their future work on bers of the Subcommittee on Economic reserves the right to seek appointment of an Opportunity for taking the time earlier this as they continue to focus on and appropriate number of conferees to any refine the program. this session to sit down with stake- House-Senate conference involving this or holders and really examine the transi- similar legislation, and requests your sup- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of tion process from the very beginning port for such request. my time. and look at the need for improvements. Finally, would ask that a copy of our ex- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I While this bill is a culmination of bi- change of letters on this matter be included yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from in the Congressional Record during floor partisan review and work, it is only a Texas (Mr. ARRINGTON), chairman of consideration of H.R. 5649. the Economic Opportunity Sub- step in the process to ensure a success- Sincerely, ful transition for all servicemembers. I KEVIN BRADY, committee on the House Veterans’ Af- know we will remain dedicated to mak- Chairman. fairs Committee, and my good friend. ing improvements to this process to Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. ARRINGTON. Mr. Speaker, I reach this goal. myself such time as I may consume. can’t thank the chairman enough for Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. the opportunity to serve with him, Mr. BRADY for helping to expedite the con- 5649, as amended, the Navy SEAL Chief TAKANO, and Mr. WENSTRUP. I am look- sideration of the bill today, and I Petty Officer William ‘‘Bill’’ Mulder ing out and seeing colleagues on both thank Congressman ARRINGTON for his (Ret.) Transition Improvements Act of sides of the aisle who have worked in a work. 2018. bipartisan way to solve problems so Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Mr. Speaker, I thank the Economic that we can better serve our veterans. my time. Opportunity Subcommittee chairman, I have to say, it has to be the most pro- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Mr. ARRINGTON, and ranking member, ductive bipartisan committee in all of COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS, Mr. O’ROURKE, for their bipartisan the United States Congress, and that is Washington, DC, July 16, 2018. focus on this issue and the bipartisan refreshing. And there is no worthier Hon. KEVIN BRADY, customer to serve than those who wore Chairman, House Ways and Means Committee, way they have crafted this piece of leg- Washington, DC. islation and have moved it forward. the uniform, those who sacrificed their DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: On July 12, 2018, the This bill was generated out of feed- today so that we could have our tomor- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs ordered re- back from our veteran service organi- row.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.033 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7138 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 I think it is notable to remind my of veterans who struggle with unem- diligent work on this, by convening colleagues of the work under his lead- ployment, with homelessness, suicide, stakeholders, veterans service organi- ership to produce more than 70 pieces et cetera. zations, veteran student service organi- of reform legislation. Seventy bills This bill is the result, again, of Mr. zations, members of the VA, the De- that have passed the House of Rep- TAKANO, Mr. O’ROURKE, my ranking partment of Labor, other colleagues resentatives is no small task. More member, my friend and fellow Texan, from the committee to make sure that than 20 bills have become law of the and it will make the following im- we got this right and that we help land. provements: It will improve in the those servicemembers transition into a Again, I thank Mr. TAKANO for his sense that we will engage our Active life that allows them to give to their leadership, Mr. WALZ, and my friends Duty personnel earlier in the process. full potential once back in their home on the other side of the aisle. This is We will have a more comprehensive as- community, once back in their coun- truly a bipartisan committee and effort sessment, including mental health. We try. altogether. will customize support for them. I want to make sure that we do ev- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to encour- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The erything we can to ensure the success age my colleagues to support my bill, time of the gentleman has expired. of this legislation; that we follow the H.R. 5649. It is really not my bill; it is Mr. ROE of Tennessee. I yield the outcome assessments that are provided our bill. It is the bill of the committee, gentleman from Texas an additional 1 for in the legislation; that we meet the and it is the bill of the Subcommittee minute. intention and the purpose that is de- on Economic Opportunity. This is a bill Mr. ARRINGTON. It will not just be scribed here, so that it is not a boxes that was amended as the Navy SEAL a one-size-fits-all, I think, like we have checked at the end of a servicemem- Chief Petty Officer William ‘‘Bill’’ seen in the past. We will also connect ber’s career, but something that is pur- Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improvements them back to community organizations sued with thought, so that when that Act of 2018. and we will track and we will measure servicemember reintegrates, they are Mr. Speaker, again, there is no great- the success and the outcomes so we ready to hit the ground running. er honor for me than to serve the men will know what is working, where we Lastly, I want to thank the chairman and women who served our country can continue to make those invest- of the full committee. Some will say with honor and distinction. I am ments. that without Tennessee, there would be pleased to be here today to debate the Again, I want to thank my friend and no Texas. Without Chairman ROE, legislation I introduced, which I be- fellow Texan, Mr. O’ROURKE, for work- there would be no H.R. 5649. The fact lieve will significantly improve the ing with me on this package, and that you elevated this and that you spent so much of your time personally lives of our servicemen and -women Chairman ROE, and Mr. WALZ for help- listening to these veteran service orga- who are in transition from Active Duty ing bring this forward and to a vote nizations and your colleagues on the to civilian life. here on the House floor. committee, I think, helped to make it When our soldiers come home from I am proud to say that this bill is a much better bill than it would have war, it doesn’t mean that the conflict fully offset. It is budget neutral, and I been otherwise, and for that I am necessarily is over for them. There is believe it will have a positive impact; in fact, I pray it will actually save grateful. often a battle that continues to rage on Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I lives of our American veterans. inside of them. I think that is a big yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from reason that we see, unfortunately, 20 I urge all Members to support H.R. Ohio (Mr. WENSTRUP), my good friend, veterans commit suicide every day in 5649, as amended. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield a former member of the committee, this country. and chair of the Subcommittee on myself such time as I may consume. One of those veterans was my good Health, also a member of the House friend and fellow Plainview Bulldog, The work of this subcommittee is the work of great heart, and I appreciate Armed Services Committee and the In- Bill Mulder, after whom this bill was telligence Committee. the heartfelt work that the chairman, named. I am so proud that this is Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I urge Mr. ARRINGTON, has put forward. named after Bill, and I am grateful to my colleagues to support H.R. 5649. Sydney and their family for allowing I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman As a member of the Army Reserve us to do so. from Texas (Mr. O’ROURKE), my good who served in Iraq, I know how dif- friend, the ranking member of the Eco- b 1845 ficult the transition to civilian life can nomic Opportunity Subcommittee, a be after service for so many of our Bill was a true American hero who gentleman with great heart for vet- servicemembers. I still remember the served his country with honor and dis- erans. eerie feeling of the quiet and serenity tinction. However, again, like many of Mr. O’ROURKE. Mr. Speaker, I thank of home life after returning from the our veterans, Bill returned home from the vice-ranking member of the full battlefield. service with an internal struggle, with committee, Mr. TAKANO, for this time For those servicemembers who don’t scars that you couldn’t see with the to speak in favor of this bill. have a clear cut path upon their return naked eye, and he was working through As my colleague from Texas, and the to civilian life, there is often a struggle his transition to civilian life after 20 chairman of the subcommittee pointed for what I like to refer to as post-nec- years as a combat Navy SEAL. That is out, by the best estimate of the VA, essary stress. tough. I can’t imagine, to think about which many believe is a conservative When you go from being completely redefining your purpose and your mis- estimate, every single day in this coun- necessary, part of a team, part of some- sion after 20 years of fighting for our try, 20 veterans will have taken their thing big, and you come home and you freedom in combat as a Navy SEAL. lives. don’t have that same feeling, it takes Our country makes a tremendous in- The purpose and the function and the its toll on you. It is hard for many vestment, as Chairman ROE said, in dignity that they found as a member of servicemembers to actually settle back preparing our citizens to be freedom the armed services, as a contributing into civilian life when they get back. fighters, to be part of the greatest member of their military unit, where This is what this is about. fighting machine in the world, but we the decisions that they made, the ac- We can combat this problem by en- only invest a fraction of that helping tions that they took, would literally couraging servicemembers to focus on soldiers in their transition back to ci- save and determine the outcomes of transition earlier. Even when they first vilian life. the lives of their fellow servicemem- join the armed services, imagine if you I have often said, like the gentleman bers, to return that level of function were being recruited and you are talk- has stated, that an ounce of prevention and purpose to their lives when they ing to a recruiter about what you plan is better than a pound of cure. And if come back to this country and re- to do when you enter the military, and we do a better job on the front end in integrate within our communities, that if they also said to you, and what do their transition, and especially identi- is the purpose of this legislation. you plan to do afterwards? If we were fying the highest-risk individuals, I I want to thank my colleague, the plotting a course for your life when in think that we can reduce the number chairman of the subcommittee, for his uniform and after.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.106 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7139 So this gives us a chance to mod- partisan work of this committee, which leagues to ensure our veterans are set ernize our curriculum for those going I am so proud to serve on, and for our up to succeed. through the Transition Assistance Pro- excellent staff. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield gram to ensure that the information I fully support H.R. 5649, and I urge myself the balance of my time. they have is timely and specific to the all of my colleagues to support this Mr. Speaker, this is a very special servicemember. legislation, and to stand behind the piece of legislation to me. I was once I think this legislation is an impor- veterans who will be assisted by this the ranking member of this very sub- tant first step to better equip service- across the Nation. committee, and I applaud the work of members with the skills needed to suc- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Ranking Member BETO O’ROURKE and cessfully transition into civilian life. yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Chairman ARRINGTON. This is a work of I encourage my colleagues to support Florida (Mr. RUTHERFORD) a former, great heart, of great compassion, and this legislation. I want to thank the very active member on the Veterans we all know that we need to improve committee, all the members on the Affairs Committee, and a good friend. the transition from military service to committee, and the staff, for pushing Mr. RUTHERFORD. Mr. Speaker, I civilian life for our servicemembers. this along and doing such a great job of rise today in strong support of H.R. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to that. 5649, the Navy SEAL Chief Petty Offi- join me in passing H.R. 5649, as amend- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 cer William Mulder Transition Im- ed, and I yield back the balance of my minutes to the gentlewoman from Con- provement Act. time. necticut (Ms. ESTY), my good friend, In my time on the House Veterans b 1900 and the ranking member of the Sub- Affairs Subcommittee on Economic Op- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I committee on Disability Assistance portunity, my colleagues and I heard want to close by thanking Mr. and Memorial Affairs. from countless constituents, including ARRINGTON and Mr. O’ROURKE for Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speak- Active Duty and separated service- bringing this great piece of legislation er, I rise in support of H.R. 5649, the members about how ineffective the to the floor. Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer Wil- Federal Government’s comprehensive As I was listening to the debate and liam ‘‘Bill’’ Mulder Transition Im- Transition Assistance Program was at conversation, it sort of took me back a provement Act of 2018, a bill that will placing our veterans in long-term, sta- few years. I recall 53 years ago, when I improve the transition process for serv- ble employment. was a college student, and I buried a icemembers returning to civilian life Under the leadership of Chairman very good friend of mine, who was my to a life of purpose and meaning. ROE and Subcommittee Chairman Scoutmaster, First Sergeant Thomas I want to thank my colleagues, the ARRINGTON, the subcommittee held a E. Thayer, who was killed in Vietnam. gentlemen from Texas, Mr. ARRINGTON number of roundtables, hearings, meet- He won the Silver Star there. He had and Mr. O’ROURKE, for introducing this ings to receive feedback from all the four children and a family at home. His important bill; and for including my stakeholders. We heard from DOD, the life was worth, I think, $10,000. I think own bill, the Job TOOLS for Veterans Department of Labor, Veterans Affairs, that is what it was worth. I thought Act, as a provision within this larger community providers and, of course, about what it did to his family and how legislation. veterans themselves. little our country did for our Nation’s The Job TOOLS Act for veterans One section of this bill that I would heroes at that time, and I fast-forward would ensure that veterans of all eras like to highlight and thank Chairman to what we are doing now. We are mak- have access to transition assistance ARRINGTON for including is section 203, ing some things right. classes. The Transition Assistance Pro- which is bill language I introduced last I know Mr. ARRINGTON spoke very gram, commonly known as TAP, was year called the Veterans Armed for warmly of his friend, Chief Petty Offi- established to help current service- Success Act. cer Bill Mulder, a true American hero, members transition to civilian life This section makes grants available who died. with job search and training informa- to organizations that provide service- I know when I separated from the tion. members transition assistance of their military at the end of 1974, got back Prior to the establishment of TAP, knowledge, skills, and abilities to pri- from Southeast Asia, separated from very few servicemembers received any vate industry through such means as the Army, there was no transition. It job training assistance during their re´sume´ building and interview train- was basically just out the front gate transition at all. ing, and it is mirrored off an organiza- you went, and no one called, checked, We know that access to job training tion called Operation New Uniform whatever. is essential to our mission of ensuring that does just that in my district in We are much better as a country, and that all our servicemembers land on Florida. This group has a 97 percent we are much better now, Mr. Speaker, their feet when they return home from success rate in placing veterans in for what we are doing in this bill. protecting our freedom. And given the long-term employment. I agree with Mr. O’ROURKE and Mr. transitions that veterans face over the As we learned through the informa- ARRINGTON. I really believe if you put years, especially in a changing econ- tion gathering process, a successful these young men and women back in a omy, these job training programs are transition often relies on the commu- job, in school, which we just passed the especially valuable throughout life; nity supporting our veterans and con- Forever GI Bill from this committee and that is why our bill would allow necting with the resources that they and the President has signed it into veterans, no matter when they served, need. We should help this and other law, all of these things, I think, will to get access to this crucial assistance. similar organizations around the coun- make a huge difference in the future Additionally, it will allow veterans try use this model to help our veterans not only of these young people who from any service era access to all TAP succeed. have served our Nation so honorably, programs and will expand the TAP pro- I strongly commend Chairman ROE, but it will also help this country, this gram to at least 50 locations across the Chairman ARRINGTON, Ranking Mem- Nation. United States. ber WALZ, and all the members of the I know, as a veteran and as a person The men and women who have admi- committee for their incredible work on who did not benefit from this, I cer- rably served our great Nation must this important piece of legislation. You tainly am more than happy to support know that we stand behind them when all, along with the committee staff and this. I think this is a great piece of leg- transitioning from military to civilian other groups that worked so hard on islation. life, and that we stand behind them for this, should be proud of the real world Mr. Speaker, again, I want to thank life. impact that this legislation will have. Mr. WALZ, Mr. TAKANO, and others who I want to thank Chairman ROE, As I now serve as a member of the have helped push this through, and I Ranking Member WALZ, and Vice House Appropriations Subcommittee again encourage all Members to sup- Ranking Member TAKANO for their on Military Construction and Veterans port H.R. 5649, as amended. work in getting this important bill to Affairs, I look forward to building on Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the floor today, for the outstanding bi- this important work with my col- of my time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.108 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7140 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ones. Our government should take and Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N, for cospon- question is on the motion offered by every measure necessary to help family soring this bill and raising the profile the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. members through such a time of need. of this issue. ROE) that the House suspend the rules In recognition of that, the Gold Star Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and pass the bill, H.R. 5649, as amend- Spouses Leasing Relief Act would my time. ed. amend the Servicemembers Civil Relief Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I The question was taken; and (two- Act, the SCRA, to allow a spouse of a yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from thirds being in the affirmative) the servicemember who has died due to Ohio (Mr. WENSTRUP). He spoke a mo- rules were suspended and the bill, as military service to break their residen- ment ago. He has previously served as amended, was passed. tial lease without penalty within 1 chair of the Health Subcommittee of A motion to reconsider was laid on year of the servicemember’s death. the House Veterans’ Affairs Com- the table. Mr. Speaker, paying fees for breaking mittee. f a lease should be the last thing on Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise someone’s mind when they are con- in support of the Gold Star Spouses GOLD STAR SPOUSES LEASING fronting life without their spouse. Leasing Relief Act, legislation that I RELIEF ACT Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the am proud to have introduced alongside Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I sponsor of this bill, Congresswoman my colleague Congresswoman BUSTOS, move to suspend the rules and pass the CHERI BUSTOS of Illinois, for her com- and I thank her for bringing this situa- bill (H.R. 5882) to amend the Service- monsense solution to this problem. I tion to my attention so that we could members Civil Relief Act to provide for also want to thank Ranking Member bring this forward. the termination by a spouse of a lessee WALZ and his staff for their suggestion Part of our Nation’s commitment to of certain leases when the lessee dies to improve the bill by including in it a our men and women in uniform is a while in military service, as amended. provision that would extend protection commitment to their families, espe- The Clerk read the title of the bill. to surviving spouses of members of the cially if they endure the loss of life in The text of the bill is as follows: National Guard and Reserve whose the line of duty. As Gold Star families H.R. 5882 death occurred while on Active-Duty grieve, they should have the freedom to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- orders. relocate to fit their family’s needs. resentatives of the United States of America in We should recognize the service of all Sadly, that is all too often not the Congress assembled, servicemembers on Active-Duty orders, case. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. and I am glad the amended version of Cindy Southern, a native of Ports- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Gold Star this bill includes that provision. mouth, Ohio, lost her husband while he Spouses Leasing Relief Act’’. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to was serving in the Navy overseas dur- SEC. 2. TERMINATION OF LEASES OF PREMISES support this bill, and I reserve the bal- ing the first Desert Storm war. As she OF DECEASED SERVICEMEMBERS ance of my time. grieved, all she wanted to do was move WHO DIE WHILE IN MILITARY SERV- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield ICE. home, but she had signed a 1-year lease Section 305(a) of the Servicemembers Civil myself such time as I may consume. on a home in North Carolina. Her land- Relief Act (50 U.S.C. 3955) is amended— Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. lords refused to waive her lease with- (1) in the subsection heading, by striking 5882, as amended, the Gold Star out massive termination fees. ‘‘BY LESSEE’’; Spouses Leasing Relief Act. Cindy has suffered enough. Others (2) in the heading for paragraph (1), by Mr. Speaker, I would like to first have as well. This legislation would striking ‘‘IN GENERAL’’ and inserting ‘‘TERMI- start by thanking the gentlewoman protect Gold Star families by ensuring NATION BY LESSEE’’; and from Illinois (Mrs. BUSTOS) for drafting they are not trapped in a jointly held (3) by adding at the end the following new this bill. It would allow the spouse of a residential lease after the death of a paragraph: servicemember to terminate their lease ‘‘(3) DEATH OF LESSEE.—The spouse of the servicemember. They have grieved lessee on a lease described in subsection after the death of the servicemember. enough. (b)(1) may terminate the lease during the Oftentimes, servicemembers and Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to one-year period beginning on the date of the their families are required to move far support this important legislation. death of the lessee, if the lessee dies while in away from home due to the needs of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I military service or while performing full- the service and where the servicemem- reserve the balance of my time. time National Guard duty, active Guard and ber is stationed. In the difficult time Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 Reserve duty, or inactive-duty training (as after the passing of a servicemember, minutes to the gentlewoman from Illi- such terms are defined in section 101(d) of spouses should not be stuck in a lease nois (Mrs. BUSTOS), my good friend and title 10, United States Code).’’. far away from their home and support the author of this bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- network. This may seem like a small Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I thank ant to the rule, the gentleman from detail, but it is something that can the gentleman for yielding. Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman make life just a little bit easier in a Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will very trying time. of my bill, the Gold Star Spouses Leas- control 20 minutes. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank ing Relief Act. This bipartisan bill The Chair recognizes the gentleman the chairman for working with us on would support the widows and wid- from Tennessee. including National Guard and Reserve owers of our fallen heroes by allowing GENERAL LEAVE servicemembers who are killed while them to terminate residential leases Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I on duty. without penalty in the wake of a serv- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- As we move the Reserve components icemember’s death. bers have 5 legislative days in which to from a Strategic Reserve to an Oper- This issue first came to my attention revise and extend their remarks and in- ational Reserve concept, we are seeing when I met a Gold Star spouse, Kylie sert extraneous material. too many deaths of National Guards- Riney of Farmington, Illinois, which is The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there men and -women and reservists while in a central part of the congressional objection to the request of the gen- they are in uniform. It is critically im- district that I serve. tleman from Tennessee? portant that we modernize our statutes Kylie’s life was forever changed on There was no objection. to ensure benefits parity while service- October 19, 2016, when her husband, Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I members are in uniform. Sergeant Douglas Riney, tragically yield myself as much time as I may Mr. Speaker, again, I would like to died defending our freedom in Kabul, consume. thank the gentlewoman from Illinois Afghanistan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support (Mrs. BUSTOS), for working on this Kylie and her two young children, of H.R. 5882, as amended, the Gold Star issue and Mr. WENSTRUP for joining her James and Elea, were living in Texas Spouses Leasing Relief Act. in introducing the bill. I would also at the time. This is their beautiful The death of a servicemember can like to thank our fellow committee family before tragedy hit. They had have a profound impact on their loved members, Ms. KUSTER, Ms. BROWNLEY, moved there when Sergeant Riney was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.111 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7141 assigned to Fort Hood before deploying Vietnam war, I saw all too many fami- (1) a description of the implementation of in support of Operation Freedom’s Sen- lies broken apart, had to move. I find it such qualifications and performance metrics; tinel. almost unimaginable that a landlord and After her husband’s death, Kylie would insist that somebody not sepa- (2) an assessment of the quality of such qualifications and performance metrics. chose to be back in Illinois with her rate, not do this when they have lost a SEC. 3. NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED. family, surrounded by those whom she spouse. No additional funds are authorized to be loves and love her so they could mourn That beautiful family that she appropriated to carry out the requirements together this inconceivable loss. But in showed, their lives are changed forever, of this Act. Such requirements shall be car- the wake of this tragedy, their landlord and the last thing that young widow ried out using amounts otherwise authorized refused to allow Kylie to terminate the needed to worry about was that. She to be appropriated. lease that she and her husband had needed to take care of those children, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- signed—I mean, it is just hard to even to explain why their father was not ant to the rule, the gentleman from get those words out—refused to allow coming home or, in another case, their Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman them to get out of their lease. mother might not be coming home. from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will The families of our fallen heroes have Mr. Speaker, I can’t think of any bill control 20 minutes. already sacrificed far too much, and we that deserves the support more than The Chair recognizes the gentleman should do everything in our power to this one does, and I encourage all Mem- from Tennessee. ensure grieving spouses receive the bers to support H.R. 5882, as amended. b 1915 support that they need. For this rea- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance son, I was proud to introduce this com- of my time. GENERAL LEAVE monsense, bipartisan bill, the Gold The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act. GAETZ). The question is on the motion ask unanimous consent that all Mem- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my col- offered by the gentleman from Ten- bers have 5 legislative days in which to league, Congressman BRAD WENSTRUP, nessee (Mr. ROE) that the House sus- revise and extend their remarks and in- who is also an Army Reserve officer pend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. sert extraneous material. and a physician, who helped introduce 5882, as amended. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there this with me. I would also like to The question was taken; and (two- objection to the request of the gen- thank Chairman ROE and Ranking thirds being in the affirmative) the tleman from Tennessee? Member TIM WALZ for their work in rules were suspended and the bill, as There was no objection. bringing this to the floor. amended, was passed. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Currently, the Servicemembers Civil A motion to reconsider was laid on yield myself such time as I may con- Relief Act protects servicemembers the table. sume. from lease termination fees when they f Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5864, the VA Hospitals Estab- deploy or receive a permanent change VA HOSPITALS ESTABLISHING lishing Leadership Performance Act, or of station. Our legislation narrowly ex- LEADERSHIP PERFORMANCE ACT tends that law’s residential leasing the VA HELP Act. protections to the surviving spouses of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I The significant recruitment and re- servicemembers who are killed while move to suspend the rules and pass the tention challenges facing the VA serving their country. bill (H.R. 5864) to direct the Secretary healthcare system are nothing new. Ranking Member WALZ helped ensure of Veterans Affairs to establish quali- One of my priorities as chairman has the bill would protect all these fami- fications for the human resources posi- been to help the VA address those chal- lies, including those who lose a mem- tions within the Veterans Health Ad- lenges and attract high-quality clini- ber of the National Guard or Reserves. ministration of the Department of Vet- cians and support staff to VA medical He has been a tireless advocate for the erans Affairs, and for other purposes, facilities. To that end, I have worked National Guard in Congress, and it is a as amended. to see two major pieces of legislation— pleasure to be able to work with him. The Clerk read the title of the bill. the VA Choice and Quality Employ- I can hardly think of anything worse The text of the bill is as follows: ment Act, and the VA Mission Act— than taking advantage of a grieving H.R. 5864 signed into law this Congress include widow or widower whose spouse made Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- extensive improvements to the VA’s the ultimate sacrifice for our country. resentatives of the United States of America in hiring authorities. Congress assembled, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to However, those improvements will SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. support this bill to ensure this does not not be nearly as effective as they could This Act may be cited as the ‘‘VA Hos- be if the HR professionals that are ad- happen again. pitals Establishing Leadership Performance Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Act’’. ministering them aren’t operating at reserve the balance of my time. SEC. 2. QUALIFICATIONS FOR HUMAN RE- the top of their game. Unfortunately, Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I have no SOURCES POSITIONS WITHIN THE the committee has found several in- more speakers. I am prepared to close, VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRA- stances where it appeared that some TION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF VET- HR staff working in VA medical facili- and I reserve the balance of my time. ERANS AFFAIRS. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS.— ties had substandard education and am prepared to close. Not later than 180 days after the date of the professional backgrounds, including Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I urge enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Vet- one HR director at a VA medical center my colleagues to join me in passing erans Affairs shall— who lacked both a college degree and H.R. 5882, as amended. (1) establish qualifications for each human relevant work experience. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- resources position within the Veterans To prevent that, the VA HELP Act woman from Illinois for introducing Health Administration of the Department of would require the VA to establish qual- this important piece of legislation. I Veterans Affairs; ification standards and standardized (2) establish standardized performance am dumbfounded that we have land- metrics for each such position; and performance metrics for HR within the lords who would not recognize the situ- (3) submit to Congress a report containing VHA. To ensure transparency and to ation of a fallen soldier, but this law is the qualifications and standardized perform- aid the committee in our ongoing over- necessary, and I urge all my colleagues ance metrics established under paragraphs sight efforts, it would also require the to support it. (1) and (2). VA to provide Congress with a copy of Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance (b) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after those qualification standards and per- of my time. the establishment of the qualifications and formance metrics, as well as require Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, performance metrics under subsection (a), the Government Accountability Office the Comptroller General of the United States I, too, associate my comments with shall submit to the Committee on Veterans’ to conduct an assessment of them. Mr. TAKANO. Affairs of the House of Representatives and I wholeheartedly believe that this I grew up in a military town, Clarks- the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the bill will result in better staffed VA ville, Tennessee, where, during the Senate a report containing— medical facilities, and, therefore, a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.113 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7142 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 more accessible VA healthcare system Oversight and Investigations staff then Forces to satisfy the occupational for our Nation’s heroes. visited Marion in order to get a first- needs of the Department of Veterans I am grateful to the sponsor of the hand look at the issues at the facility. Affairs, to establish and implement a VA HELP Act, my colleague and During that site visit, multiple em- training and certification program for friend, Congressman MIKE BOST of Illi- ployees raised concerns about poor intermediate care technicians in that nois. MIKE is the chairman of the Sub- management, poor communication, Department, and for other purposes, as committee on Disability Assistance distrust between leadership and man- amended. and Memorial Affairs, a tireless advo- agement, and the lack of account- The Clerk read the title of the bill. cate for veterans and their families, ability. Despite several efforts to en- The text of the bill is as follows: and, I might add, a veteran himself. courage the VA headquarters leader- H.R. 5938 Mr. Speaker, I thank him for his ship to address these problems, limited Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- leadership on this bill. I urge my col- actions have been taken, and my office resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, leagues to join me in supporting it, and continues to receive complaints. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. I reserve the balance of my time. The common thread throughout has This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Veterans Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield been the issue in the human resource Serving Veterans Act of 2018’’. myself such time as I may consume. department. HR management is a crit- SEC. 2. RECRUITMENT DATABASE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. ical part of delivering quality (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—Section 208 of the VA 5864, as amended, the VA Hospitals Es- healthcare. HR is responsible for re- Choice and Quality Employment Act (Public tablishing Leadership Performance cruiting and retaining highly qualified Law 115–46; 38 U.S.C. 701 note) is amended as Act, or VA HELP Act. professionals, and the current status follows: (1) In subsection (a)— Due to nationwide shortages, quo within the VHA’s HR offices can- nuanced certification and licensing re- (A) in the matter proceeding paragraph (1), not continue. by striking ‘‘a single database’’ and inserting quirements, and complex position de- That is why I introduced H.R. 5854, ‘‘and maintain a single searchable database scriptions, human resource profes- the VA HELP Act, with Representative (to be known as the ‘Departments of Defense sionals working in the healthcare in- SINEMA. This bipartisan, straight- and Veterans Affairs Recruitment Data- dustry must possess a unique set of forward legislation instructs the VA base’)’’; skills and qualifications. Secretary to establish qualifications (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘; and’’ Human resource professionals work- for HR positions within the VHA, and and inserting a semicolon; ing within the VA must further develop to set performance metrics for these (C) in paragraph (2), by striking the period their skills while learning how to le- at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and positions. (D) by adding after paragraph (2) the fol- verage the many hiring initiatives, Mr. Speaker, I urge Members of the lowing new paragraph: budgetary concerns, and Federal re- House to support H.R. 5864 to ensure ‘‘(3) with respect to each vacant position sources in a way that can compete with that our Nation’s veterans are being under paragraphs (1) and (2)— the private sector’s financial incen- provided the best possible care from ‘‘(A) the military occupational specialty or tives. VA employees. I thank the chairman of skill that corresponds to the position, as de- The VA HELP Act is an effort to as- the committee, Chairman ROE, and termined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense; and sist the VA in finding the unique talent Ranking Member TAKANO for sup- it needs to fill these health-specific ‘‘(B) each qualified member of the Armed porting this. Forces who may be recruited to fill the posi- human resource officers by requiring Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I have no tion before such qualified member of the the VA to establish qualifications and further speakers, and I am prepared to Armed Forces has been discharged and re- standardized performance metrics for close. leased from active duty.’’. each human resource position within Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to (2) By redesignating subsections (b), (c), VHA. join me in passing H.R. 5864, as amend- and (d) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respec- By further defining the human re- ed, and I yield back the balance of my tively. source positions within VHA and time. (3) By inserting after subsection (a) the fol- standardizing performance metrics, the lowing new subsections: Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, ‘‘(b) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.—Subject to VA will be able to more easily to at- once again, I encourage all Members to subsection (c), the database established tract, access, and retain quality human support H.R. 5864, as amended, and I under subsection (a) shall include, with re- resource officers. yield back the balance of my time. spect to each qualified member of the Armed Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Forces, the following information: my time. question is on the motion offered by ‘‘(1) The name and contact information of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. the qualified member of the Armed Forces. yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from ‘‘(2) The date on which the qualified mem- ROE) that the House suspend the rules ber of the Armed Forces is expected to be Illinois (Mr. BOST), the chairman of the and pass the bill, H.R. 5864, as amend- discharged and released from active duty. Disability Assistance and Memorial Af- ed. ‘‘(3) Each military occupational specialty fairs Subcommittee, who also is a Ma- The question was taken. currently or previously assigned to the rine veteran who has drunk from the The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the qualified member of the Armed Forces. Devil Dog fountain at Belleau Wood. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being ‘‘(c) AVAILABILITY.—Information in the Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I thank the in the affirmative, the ayes have it. database shall be available to offices, offi- chairman. As all of us here know cials, and employees of the Department of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, Veterans Affairs to the extent the Secretary today, the mission of the Department on that I demand the yeas and nays. of Veterans Affairs determines appropriate. of Veterans Affairs is the care for those The yeas and nays were ordered. ‘‘(d) EXPEDITED HIRING PROCEDURES.—The who have borne the battle. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Secretary shall hire qualified members of When our heroes transition from the ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- the Armed Forces who apply for vacant posi- military, they deserve to have access ceedings on this motion will be post- tions listed in the database established under to quality healthcare and services. Un- poned. subsection (a) without regard to the provi- fortunately, the VA continues to fall sions of subchapter I of chapter 33 of title 5, f United States Code. short on the promises, due, in part, to VETERANS SERVING VETERANS ‘‘(e) RELOCATION BONUS.—The Secretary failures in human resource offices. This may authorize a relocation bonus, in an issue hit close to home for me after the ACT OF 2018 amount determined appropriate by the Sec- VA National Center for Patient Safety Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I retary and subject to the same limitations as surveyed the Marion VA Medical Cen- move to suspend the rules and pass the in the case of the authority provided under ter in my district. bill (H.R. 5938) to amend the VA Choice section 5753 of title 5, to any qualified mem- The Marion survey showed a decline and Quality Employment Act to direct ber of the Armed Forces who has accepted a position listed in the database established in key factors, such as communication the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to es- under subsection (a).’’. between management and staff, and re- tablish a vacancy and recruitment (4) In subsection (g)(1), as redesignated in porting problems to management. The database to facilitate the recruitment paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘subsection (b)’’ Veterans Affairs’ Subcommittee on of certain members of the Armed and inserting ‘‘subsection (g)’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.116 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7143 (5) In subsection (h), as redesignated in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there serving in the Armed Forces to be paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘of this Act’’ and objection to the request of the gen- trained as intermediate care techni- inserting ‘‘of the Veterans Serving Veterans tleman from Tennessee? cians at the VHA. Act of 2018, and annually thereafter’’. There was no objection. By creating a pipeline from service (6) By adding after subsection (h), as redes- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ignated in paragraph (2), the following new to bedside, the VA can better treat the subsection: yield myself such time as I may con- 9 million veterans who depend on its ‘‘(i) QUALIFIED MEMBER OF THE ARMED sume. services. FORCES DEFINED.—In this section, the term Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support I appreciate the gentlewoman from ‘qualified member of the Armed Forces’ of H.R. 5938, as amended, the Veterans Puerto Rico (Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N) for means a member of the Armed Forces— Serving Veterans Act. This bill is spon- her hard work on this bill, and I urge ‘‘(1) described in section 1142(a) of title 10; sored by my friend and fellow com- my colleagues to support it. ‘‘(2) who elects to be listed in the database mittee member, the gentlewoman from established under subsection (a); and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ‘‘(3) who has been determined by the Sec- Puerto Rico (Miss JENNIFFER my time. ´ ´ retary, in consultation with the Secretary of GONZALEZ-COLON). Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, Defense, to have a military occupational spe- Mr. Speaker, I am very grateful for before I yield to our next speaker, I ciality that corresponds to a vacant position her hard work and leadership on this want to tell Members about this young described in subsection (a).’’. bill on behalf of our Nation’s veterans woman. She represents the island of (b) IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.—Not later than in Puerto Rico and across the country. 180 days after the date of the enactment of Puerto Rico, and before one of the hur- The Veterans Serving Veterans Act ricanes hit, I called her on the phone this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs contains two provisions that would shall submit to the Committees on Veterans’ just moments before the hurricane. I Affairs of the House of Representatives and help alleviate staffing shortages at the was amazed that I even got through. the Senate a plan to implement, including a Department of Veterans Affairs med- Following that, we led a group. I timeline, section 208 of the VA Choice and ical facilities and create employment came to visit the hospital and the is- Quality Employment Act (Public Law 115–46; opportunities for servicemembers sepa- land of Puerto Rico, and the passion 38 U.S.C. 701 note), as amended by this sec- rating from the Armed Forces. that she shows for the people she rep- tion. First, it would expand VA’s recruit- resents, and the passion she shows for SEC. 3. INTERMEDIATE CARE TECHNICIAN ing database to include information veterans, is second to none. TRAINING PROGRAM. about soon-to-be separated service- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary of Vet- I wanted to pass that along. I saw members whose military training and erans Affairs shall implement a program to something in this young woman down experience match open positions with- train and certify covered veterans to work as there that I had not seen before I vis- in the VA healthcare system. It is com- intermediate care technicians in the Depart- ited her beautiful island. ment of Veterans Affairs. mon sense. (b) LOCATIONS.— Second, it would expand an existing Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the (1) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary shall pilot program that recruits former gentlewoman from Puerto Rico (Miss ´ ´ establish centers at medical facilities of the medics to serve as intermediate care GONZALEZ-COLON), a member of the Department selected by the Secretary for Veterans Affairs’ Committee. the purposes of carrying out the program technicians in VA medical facilities. ´ ´ We all know that, all other things Miss GONZALEZ-COLON of Puerto under subsection (a). Rico. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman (2) SELECTION OF MEDICAL FACILITIES.—In being equal, veterans prefer being seen selecting a medical facility of the Depart- and treated by their peers. This bill ROE for, first of all, visiting the island. ment under this subsection to serve as a cen- would create a pathway for that to This is the first time ever the Com- ter, the Secretary shall consider— happen more often, while addressing mittee on Veterans’ Affairs ever visited (A) the experience and success of the facil- the serious recruitment issues that Puerto Rico. I thank the gentleman for ity in training intermediate care techni- continue to hamper VA medical facili- that, for his leadership, and for his cians; and commitment, and the ranking mem- (B) the availability of resources of the fa- ties coast to coast. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- ber’s commitment, during the last cility to train intermediate care technicians. months. (c) COVERED VETERAN DEFINED.—In this leagues to join me in supporting this section, the term ‘‘covered veteran’’ means a bill, and I reserve the balance of my Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in veteran whom the Secretary determines time. support of my bill, H.R. 5938, the Vet- served as a basic health care technician Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield erans Serving Veterans Act of 2018. while serving in the Armed Forces. myself such time as I may consume. This bill seeks to alleviate chronic SEC. 4. NO AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIA- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. staffing shortages that currently affect TIONS. 5938, as amended, the Veterans Serving the Department of Veterans Affairs, No additional funds are authorized to be which hinders their ability to serve our appropriated to carry out section 208 of the Veterans Act of 2018. VA Choice and Quality Employment Act Veterans exit the military with the veterans in an effective and timely (Public Law 115–46; 38 U.S.C. 701 note), as highest quality of education and expe- manner. amended by section 2 of this Act, or to carry rience in their respective fields. We, This issue never fails to come up dur- out section 3 of this Act. Such sections shall along with the private sector, have ing those meetings with veterans resid- be carried out using amounts otherwise au- worked diligently to ensure service- ing in Puerto Rico and is often dis- thorized to be appropriated for such purpose. members are able to translate their cussed by my colleagues here in the SEC. 5. NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED. skills to the private industry. However, House. H.R. 5938 seeks a remedial op- No additional funds are authorized to be tion to this issue by doing two things. appropriated to carry out the requirements this bill takes our efforts a step further of this Act and the amendments made by by allowing the VA to create a search- First, amending section 208 of the VA this Act. Such requirements shall be carried able vacancy and recruitment database Choice and Quality Employment Act of out using amounts otherwise authorized to containing each VA vacancy and the 2017 to include the military occupa- be appropriated. corresponding military occupation tional specialties of soon-to-be dis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- code or skill that corresponds to the charged servicemembers that cor- ant to the rule, the gentleman from positions. respond to vacant positions at the VA Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman The database will also allow inter- in the recruiting database, as well as from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will ested servicemembers to opt in to be servicemembers’ contact information control 20 minutes. included in the database, so that the and the date of discharge. Inclusion in The Chair recognizes the gentleman VA may begin recruiting transitioning the database is completely optional for from Tennessee. servicemembers to fill vacant positions those servicemembers. If included, GENERAL LEAVE before their discharges are complete. they will potentially be matched for Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I In addition to the creation of the vacant positions at the VA that cor- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- database, the bill also allows the Sec- respond with the skills they acquired bers have 5 legislative days in which to retary to create a pilot program to with the Department of Defense. revise and extend their remarks and in- train servicemembers who served as Second, the bill will also require the sert extraneous material. basic healthcare technicians while VA to implement a program to train

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.036 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7144 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 and certify former Department of De- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support fense healthcare technicians as inter- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Department of H.R. 5974, as amended, the Depart- mediate care technicians, ICTs, to ad- of Veterans Affairs Creation of On-Site ment of Veterans Affairs Creation of Treatment Systems Affording Veterans Im- On-Site Treatment Systems Affording dress the large demand for healthcare provements and Numerous General Safety providers at the Veterans Health Ad- Enhancements Act’’ or the ‘‘VA COST SAV- Veterans Improvements and Numerous ministration. INGS Enhancements Act’’. General Safety Enhancements, or, per- These very skilled technicians SEC. 2. USE OF ON-SITE REGULATED MEDICAL haps the most creative naming of a bill trained by the DOD have difficulty WASTE TREATMENT SYSTEMS AT DE- since I have been in Congress, the VA gaining employment in their field after PARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS COST SAVINGS Enhancements Act. separating from the Armed Forces due FACILITIES. This bill will require VA to identify to the lack of a certification. At the (a) IDENTIFICATION OF FACILITIES.—The facilities that could benefit from onsite Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall identify same time, the VHA has a significant Department of Veterans Affairs facilities medical waste management and, in shortage of providers. The ICT program that would benefit from cost savings associ- those facilities, install and operate on- has a high satisfaction rate and helps ated with the use of an on-site regulated site medical waste treatment capabili- fill this void. medical waste treatment system over a five- ties. Servicemembers are a remarkable year period. The World Health Organization and asset upon transitioning from the De- (b) REGULATED MEDICAL WASTE COST ANAL- the Centers for Disease Control and partment of Defense. We should do ev- YSIS MODEL.—For purposes of carrying out Prevention both consider onsite med- erything we can do to foster this tran- subsection (a), the Secretary shall develop a ical waste management to be a best sition and facilitate this opportunity uniform regulated medical waste cost anal- practice. However, only a relatively to our men and women in uniform to ysis model to be used to determine the cost savings associated with the use of an on-site small percentage of VA medical facili- serve our veterans. regulated medical waste treatment system ties have installed onsite sterilization Mr. Speaker, I need to again thank at Department facilities. Such model shall equipment to date. Chairman ROE for his leadership. For be designed to calculate savings based on— By considering which VA medical fa- me, it is an honor to serve on this com- (1) the cost of treating regulated medical cilities could find value in onsite med- mittee with a gentleman who has this waste at an off-site location under a contract ical waste management and making a commitment and who works in a bipar- with a non-Department entity, compared to deliberate effort to transition those fa- tisan manner with Ranking Member (2) the cost of treating regulated medical cilities away from off-site medical WALZ and Congressman TAKANO. I waste on-site, based on the equipment speci- waste management arrangements, VA thank the gentlemen for their support. fication of treatment system manufacturers, could achieve considerable savings of with capital costs amortized over a ten-year It is an honor to improve so many bills taxpayer dollars that could, in turn, be like this with these amendments. period. (c) INSTALLATION.—At each Department fa- used to fund other VA initiatives. It Their leadership and assistance in cility identified under subsection (a), the would also result in more VA facilities moving this bill forward make us all Secretary shall secure, install, and operate utilizing a waste disposal method that proud, so I urge all my colleagues to an on-site regulated medical waste treat- is both safer and more environmentally vote in favor of this bill. ment system. friendly. (d) USE OF BLANKET PURCHASE AGREE- b 1930 This bill is sponsored by Congress- MENT.—Any medical waste treatment system man JEFF DENHAM from California, and Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask my purchased pursuant to this section shall be I thank him for bringing this issue to colleagues to join me in passing H.R. purchased under the blanket purchase agree- the committee’s attention. I applaud 5938, as amended, and I yield back the ment known as the ‘‘VHA Regulated Medical the gentleman for his creativity in balance of my time. Waste On-Site Treatment Equipment Sys- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, tems Blanket Purchase Agreement’’ or any coming up with an acronym for a bill once again, I encourage all Members to successor, contract, agreement, or other ar- of this size. rangement. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- support H.R. 5938, as amended, and I (e) REGULATED MEDICAL WASTE DEFINED.— leagues to join me in supporting it, and yield back the balance of my time. In this section, the term ‘‘regulated medical The SPEAKER pro tempore. The I reserve the balance of my time. waste’’ has the meaning given such term Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield question is on the motion offered by under section 173.134(a)(5) of title 49, Code of myself such time as I may consume. the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Federal Regulations, concerning regulated Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. ROE) that the House suspend the rules medical waste and infectious substances, or any successor regulation, except that, in the 5974, as amended, the Department of and pass the bill, H.R. 5938, as amend- Veterans Affairs Creation of On-Site ed. case of an applicable State law that is more Treatment Systems Affording Veterans The question was taken; and (two- expansive, the definition in the State law Improvements and Numerous General thirds being in the affirmative) the shall apply. rules were suspended and the bill, as SEC. 3. NO ADDITIONAL FUNDS AUTHORIZED. Safety Enhancements Act, otherwise amended, was passed. No additional funds are authorized to be known as the VA COST SAVINGS En- appropriated to carry out the requirements hancements Act. A motion to reconsider was laid on of this Act. Such requirements shall be car- the table. Mr. Speaker, the current funding ried out using amounts otherwise authorized issues currently surrounding VA are f to be appropriated. evidence of the need for creative cost DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AF- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- savings measures. I must thank Rep- FAIRS CREATION OF ON-SITE ant to the rule, the gentleman from resentative DENHAM in identifying and TREATMENT SYSTEMS AFFORD- Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman championing one such creative solu- ING VETERANS IMPROVEMENTS from California (Mr. TAKANO) each will tion. AND NUMEROUS GENERAL SAFE- control 20 minutes. The VA COST SAVINGS Enhance- TY ENHANCEMENTS ACT The Chair recognizes the gentleman ments Act simply asks VHA to review from Tennessee. Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I its current medical waste disposal sys- move to suspend the rules and pass the GENERAL LEAVE tem and determine whether hosting bill (H.R. 5974) to direct the Secretary Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I this disposal onsite would result in of Veterans Affairs to use on-site regu- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- cost savings over the next 5 years. If lated medical waste treatment systems bers have 5 legislative days in which to so, then the facility is required to im- at certain Department of Veterans Af- revise and extend their remarks and in- plement onsite disposal. fairs facilities, and for other purposes, sert extraneous material. Onsite medical waste disposal is safer as amended. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there and far more efficient in most cases, The Clerk read the title of the bill. objection to the request of the gen- and this bill would simply require VHA The text of the bill is as follows: tleman from Tennessee? to ensure they are achieving the safest H.R. 5974 There was no objection. and most cost-effective method of med- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ical waste disposal. resentatives of the United States of America in yield myself such time as I may con- Again, I thank Representative Congress assembled, sume. DENHAM for his work on the bill, and I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.119 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7145 urge my colleagues to vote in favor of I want to thank Mr. TAKANO, Mr. whether we add more to the abundance the measure. WALZ, the staff on the minority side, of those who have much; it is whether Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and the staff on the majority side for we provide enough for those who have my time. the hard work that they have done on too little.’’ Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I all of these bills. The committee will The 2001 and the 2003 Republican tax yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from continue to move forward with other cuts, together with the December 2017 California (Mr. DENHAM), who is my bills later in the year. Republican tax cuts, which no Demo- friend and a fellow veteran. Mr. Speaker, I once again encourage crat in the House of Representatives Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I thank all Members to support H.R. 5974, as voted for, added $2 trillion to the the chairman and ranking member for amended, and I yield back the balance wealth of the top 1 percent of Ameri- their support of H.R. 5974, the VA of my time. cans. COST SAVINGS Enhancements Act. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The I suppose that would be okay if the 99 This bipartisan bill improves care for question is on the motion offered by percent had somehow seen their wealth our veterans. It also ensures that the the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. grow. It didn’t happen. In fact, what we VA is using the latest cost-saving tech- ROE) that the House suspend the rules have seen in the last decade since the nology. It directs the VA to install on- and pass the bill, H.R. 5974, as amend- Great Recession is that the great mid- site medical waste treatment systems ed. dle class of America and the poor have in facilities where this will result in a The question was taken; and (two- seen no real income growth. cost savings within 5 years. System- thirds being in the affirmative) the In the last couple of years, yes, there wide, this will save the VA millions of rules were suspended and the bill, as has been a wage increase, about 2 per- dollars each year and directly improve amended, was passed. cent, totally consumed by inflation, safety and healthcare for our veterans. A motion to reconsider was laid on which was slightly more than 2 per- In addition to the significant cost the table. cent—no real income growth. savings, this technology is safer and in- f So what is happening here is that we creases crisis readiness. Safety is para- Democrats are proposing a better deal ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER mount when caring for our vets, and for Americans. Yes, those words are PRO TEMPORE treating waste onsite prevents the similar to what FDR used. But we are spread of dangerous infections. Both The SPEAKER pro tempore. The proposing a better deal for Americans, the CDC and the World Health Organi- Chair will recognize Members for Spe- not one that makes the rich richer, al- zation recommend this technology, and cial Order speeches without prejudice though that would be fine if the rest of this policy brings the VA in line with to the possible resumption of legisla- America could also become richer. recommended practices for private tive business. But that is going to take a change in medicine. f public policy, and that is what we are Likewise, in the event of an earth- A BETTER DEAL proposing to do, because our public pol- quake or a wildfire, which we saw in icy going forward is going to be about California, transportation infrastruc- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a better deal for the American people. ture can be compromised and prevent the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- We are proposing, as we go into this hazardous waste from being trucked to uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Cali- election year, that we push aside the a disposal site or through a city. We fornia (Mr. GARAMENDI) is recognized Republican proposal, which is essen- need to make sure that this is handled for 60 minutes as the designee of the tially a better deal for the superrich, onsite. In a disaster scenario like this, minority leader. and we want to bring about a better treating waste is critical to preventing Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I deal for the people. an outbreak and keeping the facility thank you very much for the oppor- Here are the three major elements of actually up and running without huge tunity to address the House. that deal: backloads of the waste. As I often do in these evenings in the We want to lower our healthcare Our veterans deserve the highest Special Order hour, I try to first lay costs and prescription drugs for the quality of care. This technology im- out what it is: what is the purpose, American people. We can do this. Un- proves crisis-readiness and is safer, what is the goal, and what is the value fortunately, our colleagues on the Re- more efficient, more cost effective, and in what we are trying to accomplish. publican side of the aisle are going in more environmentally friendly than I find myself always harkening back exactly the other direction. As they traditional medical waste disposal. In- to a quote that I saw many years ago, have ripped the guts out of the Afford- stalling these machines will imme- and then more recently found etched able Care Act, we have seen the cost of diately begin saving the VA millions of into the marble at the FDR Memorial healthcare in America skyrocket. dollars per year and directly improve here in Washington, D.C. It comes from b 1945 care for our veterans. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and he Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to talked about what he was trying to ac- We have seen the cost of drugs sky- support H.R. 5974. complish and what he thought America rocket. We want to end that. One of the Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I have no ought to accomplish during the Great things we most definitely want to end further speakers. I ask my colleagues Depression. His words are equally im- is what the Republicans are now pro- to join me in passing H.R. 5974, as portant during the Great Recession and posing and that is that we go back in amended, and I yield back the balance the years thereafter. America to the bad old days when, if of my time. He said: ‘‘The test of our progress is you had a preexisting condition, you Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I not whether we add more to the abun- could not get healthcare; or, you would yield myself the balance of my time. dance of those who have much; it is have to pay a small fortune just to get Mr. Speaker, I have no further speak- whether we provide enough for those an insurance policy. ers. who have too little.’’ No, we don’t want that, but that is At this time, I want to thank both It is kind of what we are all about as what our Republican colleagues are minority and majority staffs for the Democrats, and that is why we found trying to give us all across this Na- hard work they have done on these the tax cut, the Republican tax cut tion—a return to the insurance dis- eight bills. We once again have shown which no Democrat voted for last De- crimination where, if you have a pre- that we can work in a bipartisan way cember, so profoundly troubling. That existing condition, you cannot get and close many loopholes that no one tax cut, on top of the 2001 and the 2003 healthcare at an affordable price and ever attempted in previous law or just Republican tax cuts, added $2 trillion quite probably couldn’t get it at all. common sense, like when a spouse has to the wealth of the top 1 percent of Issue one, the cost of drugs. The 2003 lost their loved one to be free to move Americans. improvement to Medicare part D pro- along with a cable bill or a lease and Let me say that once again. FDR was vided prescription drugs at a reduced other issues that we have dealt with quite clear in his test of policy. He cost for seniors. All good. A clause was here today. said: ‘‘The test of our progress is not written into that which prohibited the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.123 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7146 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Federal Government from negotiating This is just one example of the tens about various ways it can be done, poli- drug prices for the tens of millions of of thousands of bridges across America cies and the like. This Monday, Minor- Americans on Medicare. that are considered to be unsafe and ity Whip STENY HOYER re-energized So we have seen the cost of prescrip- structurally unsound. This one proved Make It In America. I think it is Make tion drugs soar. We have seen the sto- it. It In America 4.0. ries about a drug that was acquired by A similar bridge in Minneapolis, Min- So we have encouraged entrepreneur- some rip-off person who then took the nesota, in the Twin Cities area, re- ship by assuring access to workplace cost of that drug from a few dollars per sulted in deaths as that bridge col- benefits like healthcare and retirement pill to several hundred or several thou- lapsed. security, and providing more and sand dollars per pill. Infrastructure. American infrastruc- stronger boosts to businesses with So that is point one. I am going to go ture, according to Duke University and ideas and successful businesses. down to point three, because I am the study they published a couple of I just came across one of these ear- going to spend time on point two. years ago, ranks in the Ds. I do think lier today. I was talking to a friend out What we want to do is clean up the we have one C. This is going to require in California, Phil Wyatt, a Ph.D. guy corruption of politics in Washington glasses to try to find the one C in our who worked out of the University of and across this Nation. Just recently, infrastructure system. California, Santa Barbara for some the Treasury Department said that the Our ports are a C-plus. The rail sys- time. He came across a way of using a NRA didn’t have to reveal who its con- tems, the private rail systems are a B. machine to analyze what is in some- tributors were to its dark money pro- The rest of them are Ds and Fs. Roads, thing—a chemical analysis, an analysis gram. Similarly, no other dark money bridges, dams, on and on, sanitation of biological components, and the like. PAC across the State had to reveal who systems, water systems. He started a company called Wyatt their contributors were. All of us have heard about the prob- Technology. Citizens United opened the floodgates lem in Michigan with the water system It is an analytical machine that is to hidden money, secret money. Mil- there. Well, it is repeated in California used all around the world. It is used in lions upon millions of dollars pour into up and down the Central Valley of Cali- healthcare. It is used in biology. It is campaigns to influence the effect of fornia with water systems that are used in chemical analysis and the like. those campaigns. So we want to deal contaminated in multiple ways, as The company is an American company, with Citizens United. We want to deal they are in Michigan. an entrepreneurship that was devel- with this problem of corruption in our So, what are we going to do about it? oped in this country. There are 88 political system. There are many ways Well, we have the good fortune of an straight quarters of profitability, and we can do it, but until we can deal with opportunity presented to us by Demo- no way in hell is he going to allow the it, we are going to continue to see cratic leaders. Let me start with a cou- Chinese to steal it from him, even more and more legislation that bene- ple of examples of what can be done if though his equipment is broadly used fits the rich at the expense of the we were to Make It In America. throughout the world. A great success working men and women of America. Take, for example, an American suc- story, Wyatt Technology. Now, let me go to this second one cess story of Make It In America. The So, where did it come from? here. We want to increase and grow our Tappan Zee Bridge in New York, they Well, it was an entrepreneurial pro- economy and jobs through an infra- did it right. They did it with U.S.-man- gram. We need more entrepreneurs. We structure program rebuilding America. ufactured steel. It was a $3.9 billion need more entrepreneurs who are out That will be the central focus of what project and 7,728 American jobs cre- there developing new businesses like I want to spend this evening on. ated. Phil did several years back. They can So, as we talk a better deal for the Out in California, we do things a lit- do it. They are going to need support American people, we will be talking tle differently and not always better. from their government. They need about healthcare issues, we will be You have heard of the San Francisco- sound tax policy. They need the edu- talking about corruption and ending Oakland Bay Bridge. Well, they decided cation and research that is going on in the dark money. We will also talk that the Chinese steel would be cheap- our universities. about rebuilding the infrastructure for er. It turned out it wasn’t, and there They need to be able to accept the America and creating jobs. were thousands of American jobs that risk of starting a new business, wheth- As we go into this, why is it impor- didn’t happen. It was $3.9 billion over er it is a high-tech business or maybe tant? Why is infrastructure important? budget, as that Chinese steel was used. it is somebody that wants to go out I suspect many of you remember just There were 3,000 jobs created in China, and work at a taco stand. But they more than a year ago that the greatest and the most modern steel mill in the ought to be able to have their waterfall in all the world was created world to produce steel that was badly healthcare and they ought to have at the Oroville Dam in California, just welded and flawed in many ways. their retirement security available to a few miles upstream from my district So, we have a choice: We can make it them as they go through that time. on the Feather River. Yes, an infra- in America, as New York did with the So, that is one of the things that Mr. structure failure. The Oroville Dam Tappan Zee Bridge, or you can have it HOYER has talked about as he renews spillway was about to give way, just to made in China, as California did with the Make It In America plan. We are the side of this, creating a 30-foot wall the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, going to hold infrastructure for a few of water, because the main spillway not our proudest moment. moments and pick up the third element had collapsed. For you who are not aware, I am a in his plan, which is education, which I suppose if you are interested in wa- Californian. I was the Lieutenant Gov- ties directly to what I talked about terfalls, this was quite an event. But it ernor when this disaster was going on. with Mr. Wyatt. was dangerous. Two hundred thousand I screamed and yelled and jumped up Wyatt’s business, almost more than a of my constituents had to immediately and down and said, What in the world decade old, actually came out of the evacuate in the cities of Marysville, are you doing? Oh, but it is cheaper. It University of California, Santa Bar- Yuba City, and Live Oak, and other is supposed to be by 10 percent. Cheap bara, where he was a professor and he small communities in that area, for is not always better—an example of was doing research. And so it is the fear that that infrastructure project what could be done if we were to make educational system, not only at the would fail. Well, it did, but not totally. it in America. high level, but also all the way down For the folks in Seattle, Washington, Now, this idea of Make It In America the line, promoting pathways for ca- or anybody who was traveling on Inter- actually started with STENY HOYER, reer opportunities. state 5 from Washington State to Brit- our minority whip. I am going to put A lot of this is something you might ish Columbia, it turned out it was a up a couple of things. He has renewed find in the career technical education tough day to get there. This is the his program that he and I worked on field, where a man or woman learns to Interstate 5 bridge. Well, I suppose if beginning in 2010. be a welder and then says, Well, I can you had pontoons or maybe water Over the years we have talked about start my own welding shop. I can be- wings, you could stay on Interstate 5. Make It In America. We have talked come my own boss. So they do.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.126 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7147 Or, maybe it is somebody that has 2020. Those are big ships. There is a lit- America, but we know that, for San learned hairstyling or cosmetics and tle picture there of one. Diego, at the shipyards in San Diego, decides they want to open their own Due to the eroded capacity of Amer- they would be building these ships. We shop. If they are able to have portable ican shipyards, not one—none, nada, know that they would be building these healthcare, if they have their retire- none—of those 225 LNG ships, vessels, ships in the shipyards of the Gulf Coast ment benefits, they can run the risk of will be built in American shipyards un- and in the shipyards on the East Coast, starting their own business. less there is a law that requires that particularly in Philadelphia. These The training programs and education just a small part of that export of LNG jobs would be spread around at the and the research all fit into this focus be on American-built ships. shipyards on the West Coast, the Gulf on education. So Mr. HOYER has out- Similarly, oil, I don’t have that up of Mexico, and the East Coast. lined that as the second element. here, but none of the oil that will be And, just as important, the bill The third element in the renewal of exported from the United States will be would require that the engines, the hy- the Make It In America plan that he on American-built ships unless there is draulic systems, the pumps, the pipes, and I worked on in the beginning of a law. the electronics, that those, too, also be 2010, and continued working on these So, are you surprised that we are pro- built in America. many years, is a focus on infrastruc- posing a law called the Energizing We are talking about a major oppor- ture. American Shipbuilding? It is a piece of tunity to make it in America, to make As I said earlier, as I talked about legislation that I have introduced to it in America once again so that Amer- the failure of our basic infrastructure deal with a critical infrastructure, the ica can continue to be a major place for systems—water, sanitation, bridges, ships that America once had. the construction of American-built highways, reservoirs and dams—is this So, of 225 new LNG vessels, currently ships, whether those are naval ships, as problem, also this opportunity. As I 70 percent of those orders are going to they are today, required to be built in said, with this report coming out of Korea and the rest to China, maybe a the United States, or whether they are Duke University, where they rated the few to Japan, and none to the United commercial ships requiring that a States. infrastructure systems—as did the So- small percentage of the export of oil So, the legislation called Energizing ciety of Civil Engineers—it is a fact and natural gas be on American-built American Shipbuilding Act, introduced that if we are building our infrastruc- ships with American sailors. Bottom ture system, for every dollar we invest by myself, H.R. 5893, was introduced a few weeks ago. It requires that a cer- line: manufacturing matters. in the infrastructure, we will be able to So, when Mr. HOYER, our minority tain percentage of the liquified natural create 21,671 jobs. And for every billion whip, talks about renewing the Make It gas and crude oil exports be trans- dollars we invest, we will create those In America agenda and he talks about ported on United States-built ships and jobs. For every dollar we invest, we the necessity for that to be focusing on will improve the economy by $3.54. American-flag vessels, crewed by American mariners, from the captains infrastructure, we put forward that a b 2000 to the engineers to the seamen, Amer- critical piece of that infrastructure is So the return on that $1 investment ican men and women on these Amer- the American maritime industry—just is 3.5 to 1, so it makes a lot of sense to ican-built vessels. as important as the trucks that travel do that. Besides that, the bridges won’t A similar bill was introduced in the our highways, another piece of infra- fall down and the dams won’t crumble. Senate by Senator WICKER, and that structure; just as important as the This one is extremely important: re- bill also does exactly the same thing. trains that travel the rails, another pairing and rebuilding our aging infra- Senator CASEY, Mr. HUNTER, Mr. critical piece of infrastructure; just as structure. It also gives us the oppor- COURTNEY, and Mr. WITTMAN—two important as the barges that move up tunity to innovate in the infrastruc- Democrats, two Republicans—intro- and down the Mississippi River system ture of the future. duced the legislation. In the Senate, on the Ohio, the Missouri, or the Mis- Well, as Mr. HOYER wants to talk one Republican and one Democrat have sissippi itself. All of that is infrastruc- about the infrastructure of the future, introduced the very same legislation, ture, as are the airports and the air- I want to talk about, for my remaining bipartisan, bicameral, and, by God, we lines. time here, the infrastructure of the ought to do it. We ought to start and always think past. What happens if we were to do it? about the fact that we are a maritime You may be aware that America is Well, let’s look at some of the very nation and that in our infrastructure now a nation that exports a strategic simple opportunities that exist. we consider the American maritime, national asset. It is our petroleum Instead of China and Korea and we consider the ships and the men and products. For fracking and other rea- Japan building the ships for the export the women who are on those ships. sons, we are now an export nation when of this strategic national asset, let’s do Now, this is a national security issue. it comes to crude oil, gasoline, diesel, it in America. Let’s make them in TRANSCOM, responsible for moving and, above all, natural gas. We have America. American military supplies around the succeeded in turning this around from The Energizing American Ship- world, has stated categorically that, an importing nation to an exporting building Act, introduced in the House unless we revive our American mari- nation. and the Senate this year, if we were to time industry, unless we have sailors Some of these statistics lead me to pass this legislation, we are talking at and captains and engineers on ships an opportunity that we could rebuild, least 50 new ships built in America. who are able to transport our military reenergize, a critical national infra- Let’s see. That is 3, 6, 9, 12—about 15 of wherever they need to go around the structure. them, LNG ships, would be built here world, we are going to be in a world of We don’t often think about our mari- in the United States. And when they hurt. time industry as being infrastructure, are commissioned and they are on the Earlier today, I was talking to one of but it really is. It supports, to be sure. oceans, they would have American the officers of Liberty Maritime, one of And we often talk about ports. We talk mariners on board providing a stra- the American shipping companies, about intermodal, from the ship to the tegic advantage to our American de- owners of ships that will soon be trans- port, to the trail, to the train and rail, fense policy. I will talk about that a porting a brigade of Reserve men and and then on to the highways. All true, little later. women from the United States to Eu- but we often ignore the ship itself. There would be many, many more on rope as part of our European defense So here we are. The future of Amer- the crude oil side, perhaps more than issues. ican shipbuilding actually resides in 30. Probably closer to 35 ships would be So it becomes important that we deal the export of oil and natural gas. By built in the next decade and a half to with the infrastructure of the United 2020, the U.S. is expected to be the two decades, providing, oh, I don’t States and that we do so keeping in world’s third largest exporter of LNG, know, maybe more than 1,500 jobs for mind that these are American jobs that liquified natural gas. American mariners. fulfill this important policy position. Mr. Speaker, 225 LNG vessels are ex- And we haven’t yet been able to cal- This is the value that, as we go about pected to be added to the world fleet by culate all the jobs in the shipyards of our legislative work here, we keep in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.127 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7148 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 mind that the test of our progress is concrete to those who are making the have not permitted this massive immi- not whether we add more to the abun- cement and making the manufacturing gration that now seems to be flowing dance of those who have much; it is plant that will develop the cement. across and has been for the last 10 and whether we provide for those who have b 2015 20 years. too little. If we have industries that are going Among those who have too little are This is where we are. And by the way, we want to make sure that tax policy to succeed and jobs that are going to be the working men and women of Amer- created, we must first control our bor- ica. And if we carry out this infrastruc- does not do what the Republicans have repeatedly done—2001, 2003 tax cuts and ders so that all of the jobs that we hear ture challenge, if we make it in Amer- about being created are given to Amer- ica, if the steel is American made, if again in the 2017 tax cuts that have transferred $2 trillion of American icans, not to people who come here ille- the locomotives are American made— gally. and there is a marvelous example of wealth to the top 1 percent. That is what can be done with public policy shameful, but that has actually hap- It is unfortunate that that part of that says, if we are going to build loco- pened. And all the while the rest of the debate in how illegal immigration motives for the Amtrak system on the Americans have seen virtually no im- has been bringing down the quality of Northeast corridor from Washington, provement in their economic situation. life, taking jobs away from Americans, Tax policy—critically important. D.C., to Boston, that those locomotives that that has not been part of the de- Policy that requires that when we will be American made, with 100 per- bate that we have heard over the spend your tax dollar, that your tax cent American-made equipment. media. dollar is spent on American jobs in Interestingly, when this was part of In fact, last week, we had an example American factories, putting Americans the American Recovery Act back in where the Democratic party members to work in what we call a ‘‘Make It In 2010, a bill put forward by Democrats here were unable to support a bill on America’’ agenda. and President Obama, there was a re- And so keep this in mind, Mr. Trump, the floor commending those brave quirement for $700 million or $800 mil- this is how you make America great souls who are defending our border and lion to be spent on American-built lo- again, by making it in America. So we trying to stem the flow—the massive comotives, 100 percent American made. can work with our Republican col- flow of illegal immigration into our A German company said: Whoa, $700 leagues, as we are with our ship- country. They couldn’t get themselves million? $800 million? Locomotives? building program, the Energizing to back that. American made? We could do that. American Shipbuilding Act. Democrats Now, I went to an ICE facility, which So, in Sacramento, California, Sie- and Republicans understand, together, is the group in our government that ac- mens, one of the great manufacturing that it is public policy. It is the laws tually runs the facilities and helps us companies in the world, said: Well, that we write that set the pace for eco- control this massive flow into our let’s see. We make not locomotives, but nomic growth and spread that growth country, and the people there, yes, we do make cars for the transit sys- out across the great American popu- there were over 300 being held, and tems. We can do locomotives. they were going to be returned. They And they did. Just this last week, I lation so that everyone—everyone can were doing a good job for us. got off one of the Amtrak trains from participate in the rebuilding of Amer- New York City, walked past a gleaming ica’s infrastructure, whether it is a And the fact is, in California, the locomotive, brand-new, and on the side ship at sea, a port that is being devel- Democratic party has gone so far over- it said ‘‘Siemens.’’ I am going: That lo- oped, an airport, a highway or a rail- board, they won’t even permit local comotive was made in Sacramento, way, water system, sanitation system, law enforcement—they have actually California, just outside my district, by we must write into all of those laws outlawed—they call it the sanctuary a German company with American that when American taxpayer money is State law—they won’t even let local workers, American steel, American used, it is spent on American manufac- governments permit them to use their wheels, American engines—made in turing and American workers. own law enforcement to cooperate with So we will make it in America, and America. Federal authorities in order to deal How did it happen? Because Congress, America will make it when we follow with illegal alien criminals. with Democrats in control and a Demo- these kinds of wise public policies, keeping in mind that our task is to Now, something is wrong here. We cratic President, said: We are not going can hear all this talk about attacking to talk about making America great make sure that we always focus not on those who have much, but, rather, on Republicans as if all the tax money again; we are going to actually pass a that was saved in this tax bill went to law that says this money will be spent those that have too little. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance rich people. No, that is not the case. on American-made locomotives. And what is also not the case is that And so it was. And now that plant is of my time. f the very jobs that are being created by continuing to expand as they produce such programs are going to foreigners cars for transit systems all across this THE FIGHT TO SAVE AMERICA’S who are here illegally, unless we do Nation. PATENT SYSTEM something about it. FDR had it right, and we are going to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under follow. We are going to make sure that So with that said, I would like to get the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- into the issue that I really would like the laws of this Nation actually pro- uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Cali- vide for the working men and women; to—that I was intending to discuss fornia (Mr. ROHRABACHER) is recognized today, and it has everything to do also for those who don’t have a job, an edu- for 60 minutes as the designee of the cational program, job training pro- with American prosperity. American majority leader. prosperity didn’t just happen. So I call grams, career development programs in Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. Speaker, this the Fight to Save America’s Pat- community colleges and high schools, first and foremost, before I get into the ent System. apprenticeship programs, so that the subject that I will be discussing today, men and women of America can par- let me just note that ‘‘American made’’ We Americans are blessed to be part ticipate in the revitalization of the is only important if there are Ameri- of a Nation where average people who American infrastructure system. cans actually in the jobs. live right and work hard can expect Whether that is a highway, an inter- Who is the friend and who is the safety, a decent standard of living, and state freeway, an airport, a dock, or a enemy of American workers today? opportunities beyond the dreams of port, we are going to make sure that Certainly the party that is permitting those who just struggle to survive in so the American workers have a chance massive flow of illegal immigrants into much of the world—which is also why not only in building the infrastructure, our country in order to take the jobs we have to control the borders. Be- but in using the steel and the concrete that are being created is not a friend of cause we do have a high standard of and the other elements that go into the American working people. living in this world and we have this these infrastructure projects. Those Let us take a look at why Americans high standard of living for average peo- should also be made in America so that have prospered. We have prospered be- ple, it is not just a gift from God, but that infrastructure program flows way cause, yes, we have technology and we it is also a result of fundamental poli- beyond just those who are pouring the have jobs. But it is also because we cies and laws that have governed our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:07 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.129 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7149 land, including immigration laws, I rector Iancu has a long history in inno- that now, not the inventor, but the might add, that prevent this massive vation, from his work as an engineer at first entity to file for the patent gets flow of illegals into our country that Hughes Aircraft Company and his legal the patent. Hear that again: The actual we have been having to deal with. career that focused on intellectual inventor doesn’t get the patent. In an Policies were put into place by brave, property litigation. He has assured me age of hacking and predatory corpora- hardworking, forward-looking patriots personally that he will fight to protect tions, this is a disaster in the making. over the years who struggled to create the intellectual property of our inven- b 2030 this new country, the United States of tors, and he will demand that account- America. And they put in place funda- ability and transparency are hallmarks Even as we lost ground in the legisla- mental laws that were aimed at pro- in the patent office under his watch. tive fight to protect our inventors’ tecting the rights of each and every His positive commitment is refreshing. rights, there was even less awareness of person in the country. That is, to make sure that we have this a change in the way they were doing One of those rights, which is often transparency and accountability that business inside the Patent Office. overlooked, was delineated in Article I, he is talking about is a refreshing con- There has always been a strict guide- section 8 of the Constitution. In fact, trast to past office leadership. line directing the decisions and actions considering the fact that the Bill of Most of my colleagues and most of of the professionals and civil servants Rights was added to the document as a my fellow Americans have rarely no- the Patent Office. Approval of a patent application was package of amendments, it is the only ticed the conflict that has been quietly not left up to the whims of those mak- place in the original body of the Con- raging here in Washington for the last ing the decision. If an application met stitution where the word ‘‘right’’ is three decades. It has been an ongoing the requirements, objective criteria, used. This is that part of our basic law struggle with major impact on the se- and the proper procedures were fol- of the land that mandates that writers curity of our country and the well- lowed, if that happened, the Patent Of- and inventors have the right to exclu- being of the American people. Yet few Members of Congress are fice employee was mandated to do his sively control their creation for a spec- or her duty, not to think how they ified period of time. That is in the Con- even aware of how critical this fight is, and because the fight is usually fought should feel about the economic and so- stitution. And that specified period of cietal changes that might be brought time, which through most of our his- in legalese, the American people are unaware of the issues being deter- about when a new technology is intro- tory was 17 years—17 years for our in- duced, or what groups would benefit ventors to control and profit from what mined. What I am talking about is an ongoing clandestine attack on Amer- and which ones wouldn’t, if this new they have created. technology was patented. Benjamin Franklin probably inserted ica’s patent system by powerful multi- national corporations. Their aim has I am not certain what precipitated this into the Constitution without the power play, but, in 1994, changes much fanfare, yet it has been a factor been to gain a free hand to use any technology with no worry of compen- began happening surreptitiously inside that has made all the difference. Ordi- the Patent Office itself, even as overt nary Americans have lived good and sating the inventor of that said tech- nology. legislative campaigns were taking decent lives here, not necessarily be- place to weaken our patent system, cause we have worked harder—because American companies and American workers have succeeded by being on and they were being launched on the people work hard all over the world— the cutting edge and a notch above for- outside. but we have prospered because not only eign competition. This is because our So you had people working on the in- have our people worked hard, but they innovators have been protected by the side and the outside, trying to weaken have had the technological edge. We best patent system in the world. Yet, the patent protection of American in- have multiplied the impact of every we hear these calls globally, and in col- ventors. hour of labor with machines and equip- lusion with domestic power brokers, A new procedure was quietly made ment that existed only as a result of demands that we harmonize our system part of the system inside. It was theo- the genius of our people. with the rest of the world. retically aimed at alerting senior pat- Progress was shared by all because If there is any harmonization, it ent personnel that a patent with seri- we have nurtured our inventors, pro- should be the rest of the world rising ous consequences was soon to be grant- tected their intellectual property up to our long-held standards which ed and, thus, given more intense scru- rights, and permitted them to profit have been instrumental in enabling our tiny. It was called SAWS, Sensitive Ap- from their genius. Our standard of liv- way of life and our country’s greatness. plication Warning System. But, as you ing as a people became the envy of the We absolutely should not lower Amer- would imagine, as soon as this secre- world, and all this can be traced to a ica’s standards. tive new element was added to the Pat- strong, fair, and honest patent system. But that is exactly what a powerful ent Office procedures, it began to have I have got good news. American in- coalition has been pushing for. And in much more of an impact than sup- ventors, the folks who are so often 2012, with the America Invents Act, posedly intended. taken for granted, are deeply appre- they finally were able to undermine Unauthorized and hidden SAWS rules ciated by the new Trump administra- significant protections of our patent and determinations were made that tion. Secretary Wilbur Ross and the system. The implications of that law had a major impact on the basic busi- new director of the United States Pat- are just now becoming evident. ness of the Patent Office, the issuing or ent Office, Andrei Iancu—I guess that So, for three decades, legislation denial of an inventor’s patent. Some is how you pronounce that—are mak- aimed at weakening America’s patent Patent Office officials took it upon ing sure that America’s greatest as- protection has been pushed and re- themselves to violate the clear legal sets, our inventors and our innovators, pushed, whittling away, and restruc- boundaries that were in place specifi- are protected. This is, of course, a re- turing with the goal to diminish the cally to prevent well-intended subjec- versal of what has been going on in re- rights of our inventors. This establish- tivity from running wild. SAWS had a cent years. ment thinks these are people who are big impact, much bigger than they ever The United States Patent and Trade- just in the way. The anti-patent jug- thought, and it had no scrutiny. mark Office, or the USPTO, is the Fed- gernaut cabal even managed to change So inventors were being skewered eral agency tasked with the job of pro- who will be issued a patent. from the outside by those legislators tecting America’s new ideas and in- Up until 2012, up until that law, for mobilized by powerful multinational vestments in innovation and cre- more than two centuries, the actual in- corporations, and by other special in- ativity. Over the years, there have ventor of new technology was legally terests as well, I might add, and on the been 58 different men and women lead- considered the rightful owner of the in- inside by an in-the-shadows system ing this agency. vention and thus designated as the re- that permitted unrestricted consider- Our newest USPTO director, Andrei cipient of the patent for that new tech- ation, no visibility, and no account- Iancu, shows the promise to be perhaps nology. ability. one of the best in that long line that This longstanding and commonsense It took more than 20 years for this to extends back more than 200 years. Di- policy was shifted by that 2012 bill so come to light and officially ended. In

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.130 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 2015, the SAWS program was exposed set a path for America’s Patent Office cle of the Constitution of the United States and made public. And after congres- to offer efficient, honest, and totally and is an infringement of the privileges of sional hearings and inquiries, the Pat- above-board service. this House and that such bill be respectfully ent Office announced the program had The new director has his hands full. recommitted to the committee of con- ference. been retired. As one senior patent offi- But he has the right game plan: total cial told me, ‘‘That program had to transparency and full accountability. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The res- go.’’ When it comes to innovation and olution presents a question of the So it has been an ongoing struggle on technology, we are, with our American privileges of the House. the outside and on the inside to main- President, the Vice President, the Sec- The resolution was agreed to. tain the strength and integrity of retary of Commerce, and the team over A motion to reconsider was laid on America’s patent system. at the Patent Office, together, making the table. On the legislative side, there is a bi- America great again. f partisan coalition now, led by dedi- So I would ask my colleagues, please, cated Representatives like MARCY KAP- I know this is a complicated issue, we RECESS TUR of Ohio and THOMAS MASSIE of talked to the American people, we The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Kentucky. They just introduced H.R. know that patent law seems like it ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair 6264, Restoring America’s Leadership should be complicated, but it is not. declares the House in recess subject to in Innovation Act of 2018, a bill that For someone who invents something, the call of the Chair. will, if we can get it enacted, undo our Founding Fathers put into place a Accordingly (at 8 o’clock and 39 min- many of the legislative setbacks Amer- property right for those people who in- utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. ica’s patent system has suffered in the vent, an inventor, to be able, at least last two decades. I am, of course, an for 17 years, have control over his or f original cosponsor of that bill, and I in- her invention. b 2128 vite my colleagues to join me in co- This has worked well for the United sponsoring it. States. It is so sad that, for decades AFTER RECESS There is really good news—and here now, they have been trying to under- is some really good news—from the ex- The recess having expired, the House mine it. But we are reclaiming that was called to order by the Speaker pro ecutive branch. Secretary of Commerce today with the Trump administration, Wilbur Ross is deeply committed to tempore (Mr. WOODALL) at 9 o’clock the Secretary of Commerce, the head and 28 minutes p.m. protecting the intellectual property of of the Patent Office, and the Vice American inventors. He is willing to President of the United States, who are f fight the good fight to protect us dedicated to protecting the rights of REPORT ON RESOLUTION WAIVING against foreign competitors who would our inventors and, thus, protecting the steal our inventors’ genius and use it A REQUIREMENT OF CLAUSE 6(a) great standard of living and the safety OF RULE XIII WITH RESPECT TO against our own hardworking people. of the United States of America, which Secretary Ross is working with our CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN is so dependent on having a techno- new director of the Patent Office, RESOLUTIONS REPORTED FROM logical edge against any competitor or Andrei Iancu, and he is committed to THE COMMITTEE ON RULES, AND enemy. protecting inventors and creators. PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Both of them, with President Trump’s OF MOTIONS TO SUSPEND THE of my time. guidance and Vice President PENCE’s RULES encouragement, are declaring that the f Mr. SESSIONS, from the Committee patent system will be totally trans- RAISING A QUESTION OF THE on Rules, submitted a privileged report parent and fully accountable. PRIVILEGES OF THE HOUSE PUR- (Rept. No. 115–873) on the resolution (H. I might say, Director Iancu has just SUANT TO ARTICLE I, SECTION 7, Res. 1020) waiving a requirement of reaffirmed that commitment in a writ- OF THE UNITED STATES CON- clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to ten statement to Congress: STITUTION consideration of certain resolutions re- Today, at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ported from the Committee on Rules, Office, every action we take is on the public and providing for consideration of mo- record and recorded in a publicly available offer a resolution constituting a ques- database. tion of the privileges of the House. tions to suspend the rules, which was referred to the House Calendar and or- So there is reason for optimism that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The dered to be printed. we have turned a corner in our long- Clerk will report the resolution. term efforts to protect—and, yes, re- The Clerk read as follows: f claim and maintain and repair—some H. RES. 1019 of the damages that have been done Resolved, That the conference report ac- ADJOURNMENT from both the outside attack of our companying H.R. 5515, to authorize appro- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I move patent system and the inside, out-of- priations for fiscal year 2019 for military ac- that the House do now adjourn. line actions that were taken without tivities of the Department of Defense, for The motion was agreed to; accord- military construction, and for defense activi- ingly (at 9 o’clock and 28 minutes oversight or accountability, like the ties of the Department of Energy, to pre- SAWS program. scribe military personnel strengths for such p.m.), under its previous order, the It is not appropriate to cover up or fiscal year, and for other purposes, in the House adjourned until tomorrow, withhold information. It is time to opinion of this House, contravenes the first Wednesday, July 25, 2018, at 10 a.m. for make up for those past errors hand to clause of the seventh section of the first arti- morning-hour debate. EXPENDITURE REPORTS CONCERNING OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL Reports concerning the foreign currencies and U.S. dollars utilized for Official Foreign Travel during the second quar- ter of 2018, pursuant to Public Law 95–384, are as follows:

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, JOSH MARTIN, EXPENDED BETWEEN MAY 24 AND JUNE 4, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

Josh Martin ...... 5/25 5/26 France ...... 190.00 ...... (3) ...... 190.00

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 8634 E:\CR\FM\K24JY7.132 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7151 REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, JOSH MARTIN, EXPENDED BETWEEN MAY 24 AND JUNE 4, 2018—Continued

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

5/27 5/29 India ...... 11,118.00 163.50 ...... (3) ...... 11,118.00 163.50 5/29 5/30 Sri Lanka ...... 97.00 ...... (3) ...... 97.00 5/30 6/1 Philippines ...... 270.00 ...... (3) ...... 270.00 6 /1 6 /3 Singapore ...... 220.00 ...... (3) ...... 220.00 Committee total ...... 940.00 ...... 940.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. JOSH MARTIN, July 2, 2018.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

Hon. Glenn Thompson ...... 5 /24 5 /30 France ...... 2,857.00 ...... (3) ...... 2,857.00 5/30 5/31 England ...... 382.00 ...... (3) ...... 382.00 Committee total ...... 3,239.00 ...... 3,239.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. HON. K. MICHAEL CONAWAY, Chairman, July 17, 2018.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND THE WORKFORCE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

HOUSE COMMITTEES Please Note: If there were no expenditures during the calendar quarter noted above, please check the box at right to so indicate and return.◊ 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. HON. VIRGINIA FOXX, Chairman, July 12, 2018.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON ETHICS, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

HOUSE COMMITTEES Please Note: If there were no expenditures during the calendar quarter noted above, please check the box at right to so indicate and return.◊ 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. HON. SUSAN W. BROOKS, Chairman, July 12, 2018.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, SPACE, AND TECHNOLOGY, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total

Name of Member or employee Country U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

Hon. Lamar Smith ...... 4 /2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,375.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,375.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Hon. Zoe Lofgren ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,333.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,333.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Hon. Ed Perlmutter ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 375,521 617.83 ...... (3) ...... 617.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,305.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,305.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,356,000 484.92 ...... (3) ...... 484.29 Hon. Randy Hultgren ...... 4 /2 4/5 Chile ...... 337,837 555.83 ...... (3) ...... 555.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,305.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,305.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,244,001 444.29 ...... (3) ...... 444.29 Hon. Suzanne Bonamici ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,333.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,333.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Hon. Randy Weber ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,333.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,333.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Hon. Brian Babin ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,333.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,333.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Ashley Smith ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,375.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,375.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Cliff Shannon ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,202.56 ...... (3) ...... 1,202.56 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Ashlee Vinyard ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 8634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.038 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7152 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, SPACE, AND TECHNOLOGY, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018—Continued

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,375.80 ...... (3) ...... 1,375.80 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Jenn Wickre ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,202.56 ...... (3) ...... 1,202.56 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Kristin Kopshever ...... 4/2 4/5 Chile ...... 392,540 645.83 ...... (3) ...... 645.83 4 /5 4 /8 Ecuador ...... 1,202.56 ...... (3) ...... 1,202.56 4 /8 4 /10 Colombia ...... 1,468,000 524.29 ...... (3) ...... 524.29 Committee total ...... 29,503.95 ...... 29,503.95 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. HON. LAMAR SMITH, Chairman, July 9, 2018.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

Eric Burgeson ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Kathy Dedrick ...... 4 /3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Hon. Garret Graves ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Hon. Daniel Lipinski ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Fleming Legg ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Hon. Sean Patrick Maloney ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Collin McCune ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Hon. David Rouzer ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Hon. William F. Shuster ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Brittany Smith ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Rebekah Sungala ...... 4/3 4 /7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 Chris Vieson ...... 4/3 4/7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 1,538.00 CMTE Expenses ...... 4/3 4 /7 Australia ...... 1,538.00 ...... 7,732.00 ...... 1,557.00 ...... 1,538.00 Total Australia ...... 18,456.00 ...... 7,732.00 ...... 1,557.00 ...... 27,745.00 Eric Burgeson ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Kathy Dedrick ...... 4 /7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Hon. Garret Graves ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Hon. Daniel Lipinski ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Fleming Legg ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Hon. Sean Patrick Maloney ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Collin McCune ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Hon. David Rouzer ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Hon. William F. Shuster ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Brittany Smith ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Rebekah Sungala ...... 4/7 4 /8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 Chris Vieson ...... 4/7 4/8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 431.00 CMTE Expenses ...... 4/7 4 /8 New Zealand ...... 431.00 ...... 3,292.00 ...... 1,439.00 ...... 4,731.00 Total New Zealand ...... 5,172.00 ...... 3,292.00 ...... 1,439.00 ...... 9,903.00 Hon. Alan Lowenthal ...... 4/13 4/16 Peru ...... 2,022.36 ...... 2,022.36 Committee total ...... 25,650.36 ...... 11,024.00 ...... 2,996.00 ...... 39,670.36 HON. BILL SHUSTER, Chairman, July 12, 2018. 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, JOINT COMMITTEE ON TAXATION, EXPENDED BETWEEN APR. 1 AND JUNE 30, 2018

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

HOUSE COMMITTEES Please Note: If there were no expenditures during the calendar quarter noted above, please check the box at right to so indicate and return.◊ 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. h HON. KEVIN BRADY, Vice Chairman, July 9, 2018.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, 5743. A letter from the Chairman, Board of 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee ETC. Governors of the Federal Reserve System, on Financial Services. transmitting the Board’s Report to the Con- 5745. A letter from the Associate General Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive gress on the Profitability of Credit Card Op- Counsel for Legislation and Regulations, Of- communications were taken from the erations of Depository Institutions, pursuant fice of Housing — Federal Housing Commis- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: to 15 U.S.C. 1637 note; Public Law 100-583, sioner, Department of Housing and Urban Sec. 8; (102 Stat. 2969); to the Committee on Development, transmitting the Depart- 5742. A letter from the Under Secretary, Financial Services. ment’s final rule — Streamlining Inspection Acquisition and Sustainment, Department of 5744. A letter from the Chief Counsel, Requirements for Federal Housing Adminis- Defense, transmitting the Department’s re- FEMA, Department of Homeland Security, tration (FHA) Single-Family Mortgage In- port titled ‘‘Fiscal Year 2017 Purchases From transmitting the Department’s final rule — surance: Removal of the FHA Inspector Ros- Foreign Entities’’, pursuant to 41 U.S.C. 8305; National Flood Insurance Program: Removal ter [Docket No.: FR-5457-F-02] (RIN: 2502- Public Law 104-201, Sec. 827 (as amended by of Monroe County Pilot Inspection Program AJ03) received July 12, 2018, pursuant to 5 Public Law 111-350, Sec. 3); (124 Stat. 3833) Regulations [Docket ID: FEMA-2018-0027] U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. and Public Law 115-31, Sec. 8029(b); (131 Stat. (RIN: 1660-AA93) received July 18, 2018, pur- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Fi- 253); to the Committee on Armed Services. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- nancial Services.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.038 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7153 5746. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- 5755. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on the ment of Education, transmitting the Depart- Legislative Affairs, Department of State, Judiciary. ment’s final rule — Student Assistance Gen- transmitting Transmittal No. DDTC 17-074, 5765. A letter from the Impact Analyst, Of- eral Provisions, Federal Perkins Loan Pro- pursuant to the reporting requirements of fice of Regulation Policy and Management, gram, Federal Family Education Loan Pro- Section 36(d) of the Arms Export Control Office of the Secretary (00REG), Department gram, William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Depart- Program, and Teacher Education Assistance 5756. A letter from the Associate General ment’s final rule — Schedule for Rating Dis- for College and Higher Education Grant Pro- Counsel for General Law, Department of abilities: Skin (RIN: 2900-AP27) received July gram; Corrections [Docket ID: ED-2017-OPE- Homeland Security, transmitting a notifica- 17, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); 0112] (RIN: 1840-AD28) received July 17, 2018, tion of discontinuation of service in acting Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law role, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868) and 20 U.S.C. 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the 5766. A letter from the Inspector General, 1232(f); Public Law 90-247, Sec. 437(f) (as Committee on Oversight and Government Office of Inspector General, Department of added Public Law 91-230, Sec. 401(a)(10)); (84 Reform. Health and Human Services, transmitting a Stat. 169); to the Committee on Education 5757. A letter from the Assistant General report entitled ‘‘The MEDIC Produced Some and the Workforce. Counsel, General Law, Ethics, and Regula- Positive Results but More Could be Done to 5747. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- tion, Department of the Treasury, transmit- Enhance its Effectiveness’’ (OEI-03-17-00310), ment of Energy, transmitting the Depart- ting a notification of a designation of acting pursuant to Public Law 114-198, Sec. ment’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve Annual officer and nomination, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 704(c)(2)(B); (130 Stat. 750); jointly to the Report for Calendar Year 2015, pursuant to 42 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. Committees on Energy and Commerce and U.S.C. 6245 Public Law 94-163, Sec.165 (as 2681-614); to the Committee on Oversight and Ways and Means. amended by Public Law 106-469, Sec. 103(17)); Government Reform. 5767. A letter from the Inspector General, (114 Stat. 2032) (114 Stat. 2032); to the Com- 5758. A letter from the Associate General Office of the Inspector General, Department mittee on Energy and Commerce. Counsel for General Law, Immigration and of Health and Human Services, transmitting 5748. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Customs Enforcement, Department of Home- an update on the ongoing monitoring of the ment of Health and Human Services, trans- land Security, transmitting a notification of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ mitting a Declaration that Circumstances a designation of acting officer, and a notifi- implementation of a new Medicare payment Exist Justifying an Authorization Pursuant cation of a discontinuation of service in act- system for clinical diagnostic laboratory to Section 564 of the Federal Food, Drug, and ing role, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public tests; jointly to the Committees on Energy Cosmetic Act; to the Committee on Energy Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the and Commerce and Ways and Means. and Commerce. Committee on Oversight and Government 5749. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Reform. f Administrator, Diversion Control Division, 5759. A letter from the Chairman, National DEA, Department of Justice, transmitting REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON Credit Union Administration, transmitting PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS the Department’s temporary amendment — the NCUA Strategic Plan 2018-2022 and 2018 Schedules of Controlled Substances: Tem- Annual Performance Plan, pursuant to 5 Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of porary Placement of NM2201, 5F-AB- U.S.C. 306(a); Public Law 103-62, Sec. 3(a) (as committees were delivered to the Clerk PINACA, 4-CN-CUMYL-BUTINACA, MMB- amended by Public Law 111-352, Sec. 2); (124 CHMICA and 5F-CUMYL-P7AICA Into Sched- for printing and reference to the proper Stat. 3866) and 31 U.S.C. 1115(b); Public Law calendar, as follows: ule I [Docket No.: DEA-479] received July 17, 111-352, Sec. 3; (124 Stat. 3867); to the Com- 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public mittee on Oversight and Government Re- Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the form. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5649. A bill to amend ti- Committee on Energy and Commerce. 5760. A letter from the Director, Office of tles 10 and 38, United States Code, to amend 5750. A letter from the Assistant Adminis- Personnel Management, transmitting the Of- the Social Security Act, and to direct the trator, Diversion Control Division, DEA, De- fice’s final rule — Federal Employees Health Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, Defense, partment of Justice, transmitting the De- Benefits Program and Federal Employees Labor, and Homeland Security, and the Ad- partment’s final rule — Controlled Sub- Dental and Vision Insurance Program: Expi- ministrator of the Small Business Adminis- stances Quotas [Docket No.: DEA-480] (RIN: ration of Coverage of Children of Same-Sex tration, to take certain actions to improve 1117-AB48) received July 17, 2018, pursuant to Domestic Partners; Federal Flexible Benefits transition assistance to members of the 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Plan: Pre-Tax Payment of Health Benefits Armed Forces who separate, retire, or are 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- Premiums: Conforming Amendments (RIN: discharged from the Armed Forces, and for ergy and Commerce. other purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 5751. A letter from the Chief Executive Of- 3206-AN34) received July 17, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 115–864, Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. ficer, U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, transmitting Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- the Agency’s 2017 Annual Report and Finan- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5882. A bill to amend the cial Audit, pursuant to 21 U.S.C. 2002(b); Pub- Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to provide lic Law 109-469, Sec. 702(b); (120 Stat. 3534); to 5761. A letter from the Director, Office of Personnel Management, transmitting the Of- for the termination by a spouse of a lessee of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. certain leases when the lessee dies while in 5752. A letter from the Director, Office of fice’s Inspector General Semiannual Report military service (Rept. 115–865). Referred to Congressional Affairs, U.S. Nuclear Regu- for the period of October 1, 2017, to March 31, the Committee of the Whole House on the latory Commission, transmitting the Com- 2018, pursuant to Sec. 5 of Public Law 95-452, state of the Union. mission’s final rule — Medical Use of By- as amended; to the Committee on Oversight Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- product Material — Medical Event Defini- and Government Reform. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 2409. A bill to allow tions, Training and Experience, and Clari- 5762. A letter from the Executive Director, fying Amendments [NRC-2008-0175] (RIN: United States Access Board, transmitting servicemembers to terminate their cable, 3150-AI63) received July 17, 2018, pursuant to the Board’s FY 2017 No FEAR Act report, satellite television, and Internet access serv- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2301 note; Public Law ice contracts while deployed (Rept. 115–866). 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- 107-174, 203(a) (as amended by Public Law 109- Referred to the Committee of the Whole ergy and Commerce. 435, Sec. 604(f)); (120 Stat. 3242); to the Com- House on the state of the Union. 5753. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- mittee on Oversight and Government Re- Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- ment of Commerce, transmitting a report form. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 2787. A bill to establish in certifying that the export of the listed items 5763. A letter from the Chairman and CEO, the Department of Veterans Affairs a pilot to the People’s Republic of China is not det- Farm Credit Administration, transmitting program instituting a clinical observation rimental to the U.S. space launch industry, the Administration’s final rule — Organiza- program for pre-med students preparing to pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2778 note; Public Law tion; Funding and Fiscal Affairs, Loan Poli- attend medical school; with an amendment 105-261, Sec. 1512 (as amended by Public Law cies and Operations, and Funding Oper- (Rept. 115–867). Referred to the Committee of 105-277, Sec. 146); (112 Stat. 2174); to the Com- ations; Investment Eligibility (RIN: 3052- the Whole House on the state of the Union. mittee on Foreign Affairs. AC84) received July 18, 2018, pursuant to 5 Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- 5754. A letter from the Assistant Legal Ad- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5693. A bill to amend visor, Office of Treaty Affairs, Department of 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ag- title 38, United States Code, to authorize the State, transmitting reports concerning riculture. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to enter into international agreements other than treaties 5764. A letter from the Federal Liaison Of- contracts and agreements for the placement entered into by the United States to be ficer, United States Patent and Trademark of veterans in non-Department medical fos- transmitted to the Congress within the Office, Department of Commerce, transmit- ter homes for certain veterans who are un- sixty-day period specified in the Case-Za- ting the Department’s final rule — Removal able to live independently; with amendments blocki Act, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. 112b(a); Pub- of Rules Governing Trademark Interferences (Rept. 115–868). Referred to the Committee of lic Law 92-403, Sec. 1(a) (as amended by Pub- [Docket No.: PTO-T-2017-0032] (RIN: 0651- the Whole House on the state of the Union. lic Law 108-458, Sec. 7121(b)); (118 Stat. 3807); AD23) received July 17, 2018, pursuant to 5 Mr. ROE of Tennessee:Committee on Vet- to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5974. A bill to direct the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:53 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L24JY7.000 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE H7154 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 24, 2018 Secretary of Veterans Affairs to use on-site lows individuals who are not citizens of the transferred directly to an administrative or regulated medical waste treatment systems United States to vote in elections for State supervisory position with the Federal Law at certain Department of Veterans Affairs or local office, and for other purposes; to the Enforcement Training Center as a law en- facilities, and for other purposes; with an Committee on Oversight and Government forcement officer service for purposes of the amendment (Rept. 115–869). Referred to the Reform. Federal Employees’ Retirement System, and Committee of the Whole House on the state By Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER (for her- for other purposes; to the Committee on of the Union. self and Mr. KIND): House Administration, and in addition to the Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- H.R. 6483. A bill to amend the Trade Act of Committee on Oversight and Government erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5538. A bill to amend 1974 to provide adjustment assistance to Reform, for a period to be subsequently de- title 38, United States Code, to provide for farmers adversely affect by reduced exports termined by the Speaker, in each case for the inclusion of certain additional periods of resulting from tariffs imposed as retaliation consideration of such provisions as fall with- active duty service for purposes of sus- for United States tariff increases, and for in the jurisdiction of the committee con- pending charges to veterans’ entitlement to other purposes; to the Committee on Ways cerned. educational assistance under the laws ad- and Means. By Ms. CASTOR of Florida (for herself ministered by the Secretary of Veterans Af- By Mr. DEFAZIO (for himself, Mr. BLU- and Mr. MCKINLEY): fairs during periods of suspended participa- MENAUER, Mr. SCHRADER, and Ms. H.R. 6491. A bill to amend the Controlled tion in vocational rehabilitation programs BONAMICI): Substances Act to require the Drug Enforce- (Rept. 115–870). Referred to the Committee of H.R. 6484. A bill to provide for the designa- ment Administration to report certain infor- the Whole House on the state of the Union. tion of the Devil’s Staircase Wilderness Area mation on distribution of opioids to manu- Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- in the State of Oregon, to designate seg- facturers and distributors to help identify, erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5938. A bill to amend the ments of Wasson and Franklin Creeks in the report, and stop suspicious orders of opioids VA Choice and Quality Employment Act to State of Oregon as wild or recreation rivers, and reduce diversion rates, and for other pur- direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to and for other purposes; to the Committee on poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- establish a vacancy and recruitment data- Natural Resources. merce, and in addition to the Committee on base to facilitate the recruitment of certain By Mr. KHANNA (for himself, Mrs. the Judiciary, for a period to be subse- members of the Armed Forces to satisfy the WATSON COLEMAN, Ms. WILSON of quently determined by the Speaker, in each occupational needs of the Department of Florida, Ms. MOORE, Ms. CLARKE of case for consideration of such provisions as Veterans Affairs, to establish and implement New York, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. POCAN, fall within the jurisdiction of the committee a training and certification program for in- Mr. SERRANO, and Mr. THOMPSON of concerned. termediate care technicians in that Depart- Mississippi): By Ms. DEGETTE: ment, and for other purposes; with an H.R. 6485. A bill to direct the Secretary of H.R. 6492. A bill to designate certain lands amendment (Rept. 115–871). Referred to the Labor to carry out a Federal subsidized em- in the State of Colorado as components of Committee of the Whole House on the state ployment program, and for other purposes; the National Wilderness Preservation Sys- of the Union. to the Committee on Education and the tem, and for other purposes; to the Com- Mr. ROE of Tennessee: Committee on Vet- Workforce. mittee on Natural Resources. erans’ Affairs. H.R. 5864. A bill to direct the By Mr. LAHOOD (for himself and Ms. By Mr. DESAULNIER: Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish SEWELL of Alabama): H.R. 6493. A bill to amend titles 23 and 49, qualifications for the human resources posi- H.R. 6486. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- United States Code, to improve public under- tions within the Veterans Health Adminis- enue Code of 1986 to exclude certain post standing of how transportation investments tration of the Department of Veterans Af- graduation scholarship grants from gross in- are made by public agencies through estab- fairs, and for other purposes (Rept. 115–872). come in the same manner as qualified schol- lishing greater transparency and account- Referred to the Committee of the Whole arships to promote economic growth; to the ability processes; to the Committee on House on the state of the Union. Committee on Ways and Means. Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. SESSIONS: Committee on Rules. By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- By Mr. ENGEL (for himself and Mr. House Resolution 1020. Resolution waiving a ico: CONNOLLY): requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with H.R. 6487. A bill to provide for greater con- H.R. 6494. A bill to expose and deter unlaw- respect to consideration of certain resolu- sultation between the Federal government ful and subversive foreign interference in tions reported from the Committee on Rules, and the governing bodies of land grant- elections for Federal office, and for other and providing for consideration of motions merceds and acequias in New Mexico and to purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Af- to suspend the rules (Rept. 115–873). Referred provide for a process for recognition of the fairs, and in addition to the Committees on to the House Calendar. historic-traditional boundaries of land the Judiciary, Financial Services, and Rules, grant-mercedes, and for other purposes; to for a period to be subsequently determined f the Committee on Natural Resources. by the Speaker, in each case for consider- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS By Mr. BARTON (for himself and Mr. ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania): risdiction of the committee concerned. H.R. 6488. A bill to amend title XI of the By Ms. GABBARD (for herself, Mr. bills and resolutions of the following Social Security Act to exempt from certain CURBELO of Florida, Mr. YOUNG of titles were introduced and severally re- criminal penalties the offering and use of Alaska, Mr. SOTO, Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. ferred, as follows: certain pharmaceutical manufacturer copay- BLUMENAUER, Mr. ROHRABACHER, Mr. By Mr. RUIZ: ment coupons to waive or reduce cost-shar- GAETZ, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. NORTON, H.R. 6479. A bill to amend title XXVII of ing otherwise applied under the Medicare Ms. TITUS, Mr. CRIST, Mr. GARRETT, the Public Health Service Act to include prescription drug benefit; to the Committee Mr. CORREA, Ms. LEE, Mr. POCAN, Mr. short-term limited duration plans in the def- on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to CARBAJAL, Mr. QUIGLEY, Ms. inition of individual health insurance cov- the Committee on Ways and Means, for a pe- JAYAPAL, Ms. HANABUSA, Mr. RASKIN, erage; to the Committee on Energy and Com- riod to be subsequently determined by the Mr. POLIS, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. merce. Speaker, in each case for consideration of COHEN): By Ms. BORDALLO: such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- H.R. 6495. A bill to direct the Secretary of H.R. 6480. A bill to allow the Governor of tion of the committee concerned. Health and Human Services to enter into a Guam to determine temporary need of non- By Ms. BARRAGA´ N: 10-year arrangement with the National Acad- immigrant workers on Guam, and for other H.R. 6489. A bill to direct the Secretary of emy of Sciences to conduct and update bien- purposes; to the Committee on the Judici- Transportation to establish a grant program nially a study on the effects of State legal- ary. for the relocation of certain petroleum stor- ized marijuana programs, and for other pur- By Mr. DESAULNIER: age facilities, and for other purposes; to the poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- H.R. 6481. A bill to direct the Secretary of Committee on Transportation and Infra- merce, and in addition to the Committees on Health and Human Services, for the purpose structure, and in addition to the Committee the Judiciary, and Education and the Work- of addressing public health crises, to require on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be force, for a period to be subsequently deter- the manufacturers of covered products to de- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- velop, maintain, and update a plan to miti- each case for consideration of such provi- sideration of such provisions as fall within gate the effects of such products on public sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. health, and for other purposes; to the Com- committee concerned. By Mr. JOYCE of Ohio (for himself and mittee on Energy and Commerce. By Mr. CARTER of Georgia (for him- Mr. TURNER): By Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina (for self, Mr. COLE, Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE H.R. 6496. A bill to amend the Patient Pro- himself, Mr. NORMAN, Mr. of Pennsylvania, Mrs. MIMI WALTERS tection and Affordable Care Act to ensure DESJARLAIS, Mr. GOSAR, Mr. KING of of California, Mr. GENE GREEN of that preexisting condition exclusions with Iowa, Mr. YOHO, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. Texas, and Mr. SCALISE): respect to enrollment in health insurance MEADOWS, and Mr. BABIN): H.R. 6490. A bill to amend title 5, United coverage and group health plans continue to H.R. 6482. A bill to prohibit Federal pay- States Code, to treat the service of Members be prohibited; to the Committee on Energy ments to a unit of local government that al- of the United States Capitol Police who are and Commerce.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:34 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY7.041 H24JYPT1 dlhill on DSK3GLQ082PROD with HOUSE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7155 By Ms. MENG: H. Res. 1023. A resolution condemning ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. 87, H.R. 6497. A bill to enhance rail safety and Vladimir Putin’s attack on United States of- to express support of the right of American provide for the safe and covered transport of ficials and reaffirming support for those citizens to keep and bear arms; to the Com- materials in railroad cars, and for other pur- Americans who have served their Nation; to mittee on the Judiciary. poses; to the Committee on Transportation the Committee on Foreign Affairs. 237. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- and Infrastructure. By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey: resentatives of the State of Louisiana, rel- By Mr. ROE of Tennessee (for himself H. Res. 1024. A resolution reaffirming the ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. and Mr. BLUMENAUER): commitment of the United States to pro- 110, to memorialize the United States Con- H.R. 6498. A bill to improve mental health mote international religious freedom and gress to pass legislation that supports efforts services; to the Committee on Education and marking the 20th anniversary of the Inter- to build, modernize, and maintain the United the Workforce. national Religious Freedom Act of 1998; to States’ infrastructure with consideration of By Mrs. TORRES (for herself and Mr. the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in ad- certain principles; jointly to the Committees POE of Texas): dition to the Committee on Ways and Means, on Transportation and Infrastructure, Edu- H.R. 6499. A bill to amend the Small Busi- for a period to be subsequently determined cation and the Workforce, Energy and Com- ness Act to authorize the Administrator of by the Speaker, in each case for consider- merce, and Natural Resources. the Small Business Administration to issue ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- f loans to homeowners in areas at risk for dis- risdiction of the committee concerned. asters to carry out pre-disaster mitigation By Mr. TAKANO (for himself, Mr. GRI- CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY activities, and for other purposes; to the JALVA, and Mr. POCAN): STATEMENT Committee on Small Business. H. Res. 1025. A resolution expressing sup- Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of By Mr. WALZ (for himself, Mr. port for policies that maintain a robust, DENHAM, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. PANETTA, fully-funded and staffed Veterans Health Ad- the Rules of the House of Representa- Mr. BOST, Mr. LAWSON of Florida, Ms. ministration of the Department of Veterans tives, the following statements are sub- KUSTER of New Hampshire, Mr. Affairs and do not jeopardize care for vet- mitted regarding the specific powers O’ROURKE, Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, erans by moving essential resources to the granted to Congress in the Constitu- Mr. KIND, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALO- private sector; to the Committee on Vet- tion to enact the accompanying bill or NEY of New York, Mr. KILMER, Mr. erans’ Affairs. joint resolution. MCGOVERN, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. f By Mr. RUIZ: GONZALEZ of Texas, and Mr. H.R. 6479. CARBAJAL): MEMORIALS Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 6500. A bill to expand the availability Under clause 3 of rule XII, memorials lation pursuant to the following: of programs of the Department of Agri- were presented and referred as follows: Article I, section 8, Clauses 1 and 18 of the culture to veteran farmers and ranchers, and United States Constitution, to provide for 231. The SPEAKER presented a memorial for other purposes; to the Committee on Ag- the general welfare and make all laws nec- of the General Assembly of the State of Ten- riculture. essary and proper to carry out the powers of nessee, relative to Senate Resolution No. 154, By Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- Congress. urging the Speaker and the Clerk of the sylvania: By Ms. BORDALLO: United States House of Representatives to H. Res. 1017. A resolution requesting the H.R. 6480. President, and directing the Secretary of return to Tennessee a report compiled by the Congress has the power to enact this legis- State, to transmit to the House of Rep- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation on the lation pursuant to the following: resentatives copies of all documents, Martin Luther King assassination known as Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 of the U.S. records, communications, transcripts, sum- ‘‘MLK Document 200472’’ that was submitted Constitution maries, notes, memoranda, and read-aheads to the United States House Select Com- By Mr. DESAULNIER: in their possession referring or relating to mittee on Assassinations in 1976; to the Com- H.R. 6481. certain communications between President mittee on House Administration. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Donald Trump and President Vladimir 232. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- lation pursuant to the following: Putin; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. resentatives of the State of Louisiana, rel- Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 By Mr. PASCRELL: ative to House Resolution No. 219, memori- By Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina: H. Res. 1018. A resolution requesting the alizing the United States Congress to take H.R. 6482. President to transmit to the House of Rep- such actions as are necessary to adopt and Congress has the power to enact this legis- resentatives certain documents in the pos- enact the legislation to be proposed in the lation pursuant to the following: session of the President relating to the de- 115th Congress, Second Session, that would Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 to make all termination to impose certain tariffs and to establish the Caddo Lake National Heritage Laws which shall be necessary and proper for the strategy of the United States with re- Area; to the Committee on Natural Re- carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- spect to China; to the Committee on Ways sources. ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- and Means. 233. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- stitution in the Government of the United By Mr. BRADY of Texas: resentatives of the State of Louisiana, rel- States, or in any Department or Officer H. Res. 1019. A resolution raising a ques- ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. 48, thereof. tion of the privileges of the House pursuant memorializing the United States Congress By Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER: to article I, section 7, of the United States and the Louisiana Congressional Delegation H.R. 6483. Constitution; considered and agreed to. to take such actions as are necessary to rec- Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Ms. JACKSON LEE: tify the revenue sharing inequities between lation pursuant to the following: H. Res. 1021. A resolution calling upon any coastal and interior energy producing states Article I, Section 8 agreement reached between the President and to ensure the dependability of such rev- By Mr. DEFAZIO: and Vladimir Putin at their meeting in Hel- enue sharing; to the Committee on Natural H.R. 6484. Congress has the power to enact this legis- sinki, Finland, to be approved by Congress; Resources. to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in 234. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 (relating to addition to the Committee on Intelligence resentatives of the State of Louisiana, rel- the power to make all laws necessary and (Permanent Select), for a period to be subse- ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. proper for carrying out the powers vested in quently determined by the Speaker, in each 110, to memorialize the United States Con- Congress) case for consideration of such provisions as gress to take such actions as are necessary By Mr. KHANNA: fall within the jurisdiction of the committee to adopt and enact the legislation to be pro- H.R. 6485. concerned. posed in the 115th Congress, Second Session, Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. JOYCE of Ohio: that would establish the Caddo Lake Na- lation pursuant to the following: H. Res. 1022. A resolution condemning the tional Heritage Area; to the Committee on Article 1, Section 8 ongoing illegal occupation of Crimea by the Natural Resources. By Mr. LAHOOD: Russian Federation; to the Committee on 235. Also, a memorial of the Senate of the H.R. 6486. Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Com- Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, relative to Congress has the power to enact this legis- mittees on the Judiciary, Oversight and Gov- Senate Resolution No. 326, urging the Con- lation pursuant to the following: ernment Reform, Financial Services, and gress of the United States to adopt the Na- Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- tional Park Service’s recommendation to ex- ‘‘The Congress shall have Power To lay and quently determined by the Speaker, in each tend the Lewis and Clark National Historic collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, case for consideration of such provisions as Trail to include the additional sites along to pay the Debts and provide for the common fall within the jurisdiction of the committee the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s Eastern Defence and general Welfare of the United concerned. Legacy; to the Committee on Natural Re- States . . . .’’ By Mr. TED LIEU of California (for sources. By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- himself, Mr. JONES, and Mr. CASTRO 236. Also, a memorial of the House of Rep- ico: of Texas): resentatives of the State of Louisiana, rel- H.R. 6487.

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Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 15: Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 4306: Mr. KATKO, Mr. POSEY, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 99: Mr. GOSAR. ZELDIN. Article I, Section VIII H.R. 149: Ms. JACKSON LEE. H.R. 4454: Mr. WELCH. By Mr. BARTON: H.R. 184: Mr. CRIST. H.R. 4518: Mr. LARSEN of Washington. H.R. 6488. H.R. 233: Mr. KATKO and Mr. GOMEZ. H.R. 4638: Mr. PERLMUTTER. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 371: Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- H.R. 4693: Mr. GAETZ. lation pursuant to the following: ico. H.R. 4700: Mr. FORTENBERRY. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United H.R. 530: Ms. KAPTUR, Ms. WASSERMAN H.R. 4732: Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER and Mr. States Constitution. SCHULTZ, Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, and Ms. TONKO. ´ By Ms. BARRAGAN: HANABUSA. H.R. 4859: Mr. SCHRADER. H.R. 6489. H.R. 676: Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of H.R. 4884: Mr. MACARTHUR. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Texas. H.R. 4914: Mr. CAPUANO. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 712: Mr. DESAULNIER. H.R. 4941: Mr. KATKO. Article 1, Section 8 H.R. 754: Mr. LAHOOD, Mr. DESJARLAIS, Mr. H.R. 5011: Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- By Mr. CARTER of Georgia: CLEAVER, Mr. ROUZER, Mr. NEAL, Mr. JEN- ico and Mr. LYNCH. H.R. 6490. KINS of West Virginia, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. H.R. 5085: Mr. LYNCH. Congress has the power to enact this legis- KINZINGER, Mr. HUIZENGA, and Ms. SINEMA. H.R. 5107: Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania and lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 762: Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. HUIZENGA. This bill is enacted pursuant to the power H.R. 811: Mr. GOSAR. H.R. 5141: Mr. TURNER, Mr. NADLER, and granted to Congress Under Article I, Section H.R. 1017: Mrs. LESKO. Mr. COOPER. 8 of the United States Constitution. H.R. 1054: Ms. SINEMA. H.R. 5145: Ms. LEE, Mr. NORCROSS, and Ms. By Ms. CASTOR of Florida: H.R. 1144: Ms. CLARKE of New York. JACKSON LEE. H.R. 6491. H.R. 1201: Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. H.R. 5153: Mr. BUCK, Mr. POLIQUIN, Ms. ROS- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1205: Mr. BURGESS. LEHTINEN, and Mr. BUDD. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1227: Mr. MOULTON. Article I Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution H.R. 5188: Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 1272: Mr. ESPAILLAT. H.R. 5233: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. FOR- By Ms. DEGETTE: H.R. 1291: Mr. CORREA. H.R. 6492. TENBERRY. H.R. 1300: Mrs. LOWEY and Mr. TONKO. H.R. 5241: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Congress has the power to enact this legis- UOZZI H.R. 1318: Mr. S . H.R. 5281: Mr. BUDD and Mr. WALKER. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1415: Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 5306: Ms. CLARKE of New York. Article I, section 8 and Article IV, section H.R. 1439: Mr. DESAULNIER, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, H.R. 5339: Ms. SINEMA. 3 of the Constitution of the United States. Mr. MOULTON, and Mr. DELANEY. H.R. 5358: Mr. MARSHALL. By Mr. DESAULNIER: H.R. 1447: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. H.R. 5384: Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas and Mr. H.R. 6493. H.R. 1562: Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ and Mr. CAPUANO. Congress has the power to enact this legis- RYAN of Ohio. H.R. 1651: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5429: Mr. WELCH. CONNOLLY. Article 1, Section 8. H.R. 5499: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. H.R. 1757: Mr. CLEAVER. By Mr. ENGEL: YODER, Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana, Mr. HECK, H.R. 1872: Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. RATCLIFFE, Mr. H.R. 6494. Mr. HIGGINS of New York, Mr. LANCE, and TED LIEU of California, and Ms. JACKSON Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. SUOZZI. LEE. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5524: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. H.R. 1904: Mr. KATKO. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the Con- H.R. 5561: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. H.R. 1953: Mr. PETERSON. stitution. LAWSON of Florida, and Mr. MEEKS. H.R. 2055: Mr. MEADOWS. By Ms. GABBARD: H.R. 5595: Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. PEARCE, Mr. H.R. 2069: Mr. SMUCKER. H.R. 6495. WESTERMAN, and Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. H.R. 2327: Ms. ROSEN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 5602: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. H.R. 2358: Ms. SINEMA and Mr. GOODLATTE. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5609: Ms. CLARKE of New York, Ms. H.R. 2472: Mr. FASO and Mr. VARGAS. The United States Constitution including EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, and Mr. H.R. 2482: Mr. HURD. Article 1, Section 8. SIRES. H.R. 2650: Mr. DONOVAN and Mr. POLIS. By Mr. JOYCE of Ohio: ALVERT H.R. 2735: Mr. THOMPSON of California. H.R. 5621: Mr. C and Mrs. H.R. 6496. RADEWAGEN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2748: Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. H.R. 2803: Mr. GAETZ. H.R. 5671: Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5697: Mr. KATKO. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United H.R. 2856: Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. H.R. 2918: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. H.R. 5713: Mr. SCHNEIDER. States Constitution. H.R. 2978: Mr. LAMB. H.R. 5732: Mr. BOST. By Ms. MENG: H.R. 3026: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 5780: Mr. MEEKS, Mr. SCHIFF, Mr. H.R. 6497. FITZPATRICK, and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3048: Mr. SCHRADER. H.R. 3113: Ms. LOFGREN and Mr. HIGGINS of H.R. 5856: Mr. LEWIS of Minnesota. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5885: Mr. KATKO. Article I, Section 8, of the United States New York. H.R. 3207: Mr. LAMB, Mr. JEFFRIES, Ms. H.R. 5924: Mr. MEADOWS and Mr. WILSON of Constitution South Carolina. By Mr. ROE of Tennessee: ADAMS, and Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 3239: Mr. CAPUANO and Mr. H.R. 5945: Mr. COHEN. H.R. 6498. H.R. 5949: Mr. DAVIDSON. Congress has the power to enact this legis- KRISHNAMOORTHI. H.R. 5955: Mr. HIGGINS of New York. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3349: Ms. KELLY of Illinois. H.R. 5988: Mr. ROE of Tennessee and Mr. Article 1, Section 8, clause 3 H.R. 3391: Mr. GUTHRIE. ADERHOLT. By Mrs. TORRES: H.R. 3415: Mr. CARTER of Texas, Mr. PAUL- H.R. 6016: Ms. LOFGREN and Mr. KING of H.R. 6499. SEN, Mr. COHEN, Mr. MEEKS, Mr. GENE GREEN New York. Congress has the power to enact this legis- of Texas, Ms. GRANGER, and Mr. DESJARLAIS. H.R. 6037: Mr. BUDD. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3467: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 6071: Ms. STEFANIK, Mr. MOULTON, and Article 1: Section 8: Clause 18: To make all H.R. 3523: Mr. LOEBSACK and Mr. LATTA. Mr. NOLAN. Laws which shall be necessary and proper for H.R. 3635: Mr. BYRNE. H.R. 6081: Mr. ABRAHAM and Mr. JOYCE of carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- H.R. 3670: Ms. LEE. Ohio. ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- H.R. 3671: Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of H.R. 6086: Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, Mr. stitution in the Government of the United Texas. ESPAILLAT, and Mr. CAPUANO. States, or in any Department or Officer H.R. 3707: Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of H.R. 6108: Mr. DELANEY. thereof. New Mexico. H.R. 6137: Ms. JAYAPAL and Ms. SA´ NCHEZ. By Mr. WALZ: H.R. 3751: Mr. CAPUANO and Mr. WALKER. H.R. 6145: Mr. ESPAILLAT. H.R. 6500. H.R. 3790: Mr. LATTA. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3956: Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of Flor- H.R. 6193: Mr. POLIS, Mr. JEFFRIES, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: ida. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Clause 5 of Section 8 of Article 1 of the H.R. 4099: Mr. UPTON, Ms. ROSEN, and Ms. H.R. 6207: Mr. COHEN, Mr. RUSSELL, and Ms. Constitution. SINEMA. PINGREE. H.R. 4107: Mr. CASTRO of Texas and Mr. H.R. 6216: Mr. COFFMAN. f CONAWAY. H.R. 6217: Mr. COFFMAN. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 4143: Mr. CARTER of Georgia. H.R. 6219: Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida H.R. 4202: Ms. PINGREE. and Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 4238: Mr. RUSSELL. H.R. 6227: Mr. DEFAZIO and Mr. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 4256: Mr. YOUNG of Alaska and Mr. WESTERMAN. tions, as follows: RUSH. H.R. 6236: Ms. SHEA-PORTER.

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H.R. 6251: Ms. DELAURO. H.R. 6469: Mr. KATKO. H. Res. 932: Ms. DELAURO, Mr. GROTHMAN, H.R. 6275: Mr. STIVERS. H.R. 6474: Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. BORDALLO, and Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. SEN- H.R. 6278: Mr. COHEN. Ms. PINGREE. SENBRENNER, and Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 6294: Ms. ESHOO. H.J. Res. 31: Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. H. Res. 967: Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. COFFMAN, H.R. 6337: Mr. STEWART, Ms. STEFANIK, H.J. Res. 48: Ms. MATSUI. Mr. CALVERT, Mr. KATKO, Mr. DIAZ-BALART, Mrs. LOVE, and Mr. BUDD. H. Con. Res. 72: Mr. CALVERT. Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. FASO, Mr. COLLINS of New H.R. 6344: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia. H. Res. 257: Mr. WITTMAN. York, Mr. KINZINGER, and Ms. STEFANIK. H.R. 6345: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia and H. Res. 274: Mr. COFFMAN. H. Res. 981: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. GUTHRIE. H. Res. 413: Mr. O’HALLERAN, Mr. THOMP- H. Res. 983: Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of Flor- H.R. 6354: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia. SON of California, Ms. ESHOO, Ms. MATSUI, ida. H.R. 6360: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia. Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Ms. BROWNLEY of California, H. Res. 993: Ms. MENG, Mr. PALLONE, Ms. H.R. 6364: Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia. Mr. TED LIEU of California, Mr. MCGOVERN, WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mr. H.R. 6378: Mr. AGUILAR, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. Mr. PETERS, Mr. BERA, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. SUOZZI, Ms. TITUS, Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, BILIRAKIS, Mr. QUIGLEY, and Mr. BISHOP of LOEBSACK, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. PRICE of North Mr. CARBAJAL, Mr. SIRES, Mr. THOMPSON of Michigan. Carolina, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of Mississippi, Mr. QUIGLEY, and Mr. SERRANO. H.R. 6379: Mr. CURBELO of Florida and Mr. New Mexico, Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. CORREA, H. Res. 1008: Mr. O’ROURKE, Ms. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. VARGAS, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Ms. NORTON, Ms. KAP- H.R. 6396: Ms. DELBENE. New York, Mr. AGUILAR, Mr. RUIZ, Ms. TUR, Ms. BARRAGA´ N, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. BEN RAY H.R. 6400: Mr. YOHO, Mr. HARRIS, Mr. NOR- DELBENE, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. LUJA´ N of New Mexico, Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. MAN, Mr. KING of Iowa, Mr. CARTER of Texas, GARAMENDI, Mr. SWALWELL of California, Mr. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, Mr. Mr. ROTHFUS, Mr. STIVERS, Mr. OLSON, Mrs. BLUMENAUER, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. GRIJALVA, GARAMENDI, Mr. COOPER, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, HANDEL, Mr. RATCLIFFE, and Mrs. BROOKS of Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mexico, Mr. Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. DOGGETT, Indiana. LOWENTHAL, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. PALLONE, and Mr. HIGGINS H.R. 6417: Mr. RENACCI, Mr. NORMAN, Mr. DESAULNIER, Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. NADLER, Mr. of New York. ROGERS of Kentucky, and Mr. AMODEI. COSTA, Ms. GABBARD, Ms. MENG, Mrs. COM- H.R. 6421: Mr. FITZPATRICK and Mr. SCHNEI- STOCK, Mr. POLIS, and Mr. SMUCKER. f DER. H. Res. 518: Mr. FASO. H.R. 6426: Mr. COHEN. H. Res. 766: Mr. FITZPATRICK and Mr. KING DELETIONS OF SPONSORS FROM H.R. 6442: Miss RICE of New York. of New York. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS H.R. 6449: Mr. COOPER. H. Res. 826: Mr. RUSSELL and Mr. WILSON of Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 6455: Mr. COHEN and Mr. PERLMUTTER. South Carolina. H.R. 6459: Mr. KATKO. H. Res. 864: Mr. RICHMOND and Mr. RYAN of were deleted from public bills and reso- H.R. 6467: Ms. WILSON of Florida. Ohio. lutions, as follows: H.R. 6468: Mr. LOUDERMILK. H. Res. 869: Mr. HUFFMAN. H.R. 2069: Mr. HASTINGS.

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Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, JULY 24, 2018 No. 124 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was REMEMBERING OFFICER JACOB tive spirit so we can achieve the goal called to order by the President pro CHESTNUT AND DETECTIVE we all share—completing a regular ap- tempore (Mr. HATCH). JOHN GIBSON propriations process and avoiding an- other omnibus. f Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, I begin this morning by remembering The measures before us encompass PRAYER two heroes and the events that claimed agriculture, interior and the environ- their lives 20 years ago today, right ment, transportation and housing, and The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- here in the Capitol. financial services and general govern- fered the following prayer: On July 24, 1998, U.S. Capitol Police ment. They would deliver real re- Let us pray. Officer Jacob Chestnut and Detective sources to help American communities Eternal King, You are great and mar- John Gibson made the ultimate sac- face real challenges—challenges like velous. You alone are God. Without rifice in defense of American democ- clearing the backlog of infrastructure Your wondrous deeds, our Nation and racy. By doing their duty, these heroes needs that are holding back rural planet could not survive. You continue helped cut short an act of brutal vio- America and challenges like fighting to perform wonders on our behalf, res- lence that could have claimed many the opioid epidemic that threatens cuing us from ourselves. more lives. That same week, Officer families and communities. Lord, inspire our lawmakers to ac- Chestnut and Detective Gibson lay in Among the many, many things this knowledge Your sovereignty. Teach honor in the Capitol Rotunda, and an legislation would accomplish, it meets them Your precepts so that they may entire Nation paid its respects. these two challenges head on. It deliv- walk in Your truth, experiencing the I imagine 20 years have not made this ers nearly one-half billion dollars in reverential awe that comes from Your senseless violence any easier to bear loans and grant funding for rural presence. Provide wisdom and knowl- for the families these men left behind broadband. It supplies $400 million to edge to our legislative leaders, bring- or for their brothers and sisters in the accelerate the delivery of water and ing stability to our land. Capitol Police. Yet, as we remember waste infrastructure projects across Sovereign God, Ruler of all nature, their bravery, a triumphant example rural America. It would also deliver You alone will we worship, for You endures of selfless service and fearless more assistance to all of the areas of keep us on the path of wisdom. heroism—of two men who embodied the our country that are living under the We pray in Your merciful Name. values that keep this building and our long shadow of the opioid crisis—tens Amen. Nation standing safe and sound. of millions to help the FDA crack down on the spread of illicit drugs and to im- f Today, we honor Detective Gibson and Officer Chestnut. We renew our prove care in rural communities PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE condolences to their families. We rec- through distance learning and tele- ognize the depth of our gratitude for medicine. The President pro tempore led the These are just a few of the important Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: them and for everyone who puts on the uniform and steps into harm’s way provisions in these bills. I look forward I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the every single day. to considering them this week. I hope United States of America, and to the Repub- we will have a robust amendment proc- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, f indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. ess, and then, with bipartisan coopera- APPROPRIATIONS PROCESS tion, we can take these next steps to- f Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, gether. now, on an entirely different matter, f RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME yesterday, the Senate began consid- ECONOMIC GROWTH The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. ering our next set of appropriations HYDE-SMITH). Under the previous order, measures for fiscal year 2019. Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, the leadership time is reserved. Chairman SHELBY and Ranking Mem- on a final matter, yesterday, the White ber LEAHY have led an exemplary bi- House hosted a ‘‘Made in America’’ f partisan process through subcommittee showcase, featuring products that were and full committee work. Yesterday, manufactured in each State, including RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY that same bipartisan spirit was here on from Stoneware & Co., in my home LEADER the floor when we were able to proceed State, which makes the famous Louis- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- to these measures by consent. Let’s ville stoneware kitchen and dining jority leader is recognized. keep up that productive and coopera- sets.

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

S5227

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.000 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Well, talking about reviving Amer- block most of the policies that have aware of this history when the nomina- ican manufacturing is nothing new in helped this happen. tion was made. The length of Judge this town. In his 2013 State of the They voted against tax reform— Kavanaugh’s record, however, is no Union Address, President Obama in- every Democrat in the House and the reason to shirk our responsibility as sisted that ‘‘our first priority is mak- Senate. They have protested regu- Senators to review it. ing America a magnet for new jobs and latory reform every step of the way. Yet the distinguished chairman of manufacturing.’’ They want to go right back to their old the Judiciary Committee has already Every few years, it seemed our Demo- ways—repeal the Tax Cuts and Jobs suggested there is no reason to review cratic friends over in the House would Act, raise taxes, and pile on more Judge Kavanaugh’s full record before hold yet another press conference to crushing regulations. proceeding with his nomination. Lead- talk about getting manufacturing mov- We are not going to let that happen er MCCONNELL threatened to play polit- ing. So rhetoric was not in short supply because we agree that manufacturing ical hardball if Democrats insisted on during the Obama era. What was hard- growth is vital for American pros- obtaining Judge Kavanaugh’s full er to come by were actual results. On perity, and unlike our friends across record. Senate Republicans are making President Obama’s watch, on net, our the aisle, we have the ideas and the hollow arguments and petty attempts country lost more than 300,000 manu- policies to help make that goal into re- at advancing Judge Kavanaugh’s nomi- facturing jobs. ality. nation with as little scrutiny as they Year after year, Democratic policies can manage. f led to insufficient, sluggish, and un- We have been having trouble getting even economic growth that left much RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY an agreement with Judiciary Com- of the country behind. Eight years of LEADER mittee Chairman GRASSLEY on the scope of the documents the Senate this so-called recovery couldn’t even The PRESIDING OFFICER. The should request. Chairman GRASSLEY get us back to the same number of Democratic leader is recognized. manufacturing jobs that we had when has had our request for over a week. It President Obama first took his oath of f is the same request that was made when Elena Kagan was nominated to office. REMEMBERING OFFICER JACOB the Supreme Court. It is the very same There are a number of reasons why. CHESTNUT AND DETECTIVE request that Republicans insisted on, Yet here is one thing we heard loud and JOHN GIBSON clear from U.S. manufacturers: High including Senator GRASSLEY—he was Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, 20 taxes, heavy regulations, and other not chairman then—and Democrats years ago today, in the late afternoon, Democratic policies put the wind agreed to when we were in charge. shots rang out in this building. A men- Much like Judge Kavanaugh, Elena squarely in their faces. Back in 2013, tally ill individual, armed with a gun, Kagan spent time in prior administra- more than 75 percent of U.S. manufac- was coming through security when he tions and had a lengthy paper trail, turers said a hostile climate due to shot Capitol Police Officer Jacob some of which could have been labeled taxes and regulations was a major busi- Chestnut. He then approached the Cap- privileged. Did Democrats, in the ma- ness obstacle. itol office of Tom DeLay and engaged jority at the time, attempt to rush her What about the present? What about Detective John Gibson, and they ex- nomination through? No. Did we lean now? on former administrations to declare This united Republican government changed gunfire. Detective Gibson and her documents privileged? No. Demo- has put an end to one burdensome reg- Officer Chestnut lost their lives in the crats actually joined with the Repub- ulation after another. We cut through line of duty while protecting this build- lican minority to request a full and the redtape that held back small busi- ing’s occupants and visitors. complete accounting of Elena Kagan’s nesses, local lenders, and manufactur- There is no way of knowing how record. Her former employer waived all ers. We overhauled the Tax Code, leav- many lives they saved in their sac- claims of privilege. ing families with more to spend and in- rifice, but their families know that their sacrifice has not been forgotten Let me show you the letter right vest and leaving job creators with more here that my friend Senator LEAHY, flexibility to compete and win. by all of us here. Their memory is a blessing to their families and to all of then chairman of the Judiciary Com- What were the results? mittee, and Senator Jeff Sessions, then Less than 2 years into the new ad- us here who remember that awful day. I join the distinguished Republican ranking member, sent to the Clinton ministration, an all-time high of 95.1 Library. Here is the letter. What we percent of U.S. manufacturers have a leader today in recognizing the anni- versary of their passing as a solemn re- have done is use the same letter. We positive outlook. Now fewer than one are willing to issue the exact same let- in five says a hostile business climate minder of the everyday heroism prac- ticed by the Capitol Police and their ter, except we have put the address of due to things like taxes and regula- the person at the Bush Library, tions is a top obstacle, and more than brothers and sisters in blue all across the country. changed the name of Kagan to two-thirds are planning to hire this Kavanaugh, and changed the name of year. These aren’t just numbers; this is f Clinton to Bush; otherwise, it is the real life. exact same letter. At Jamison Door in Hagerstown, MD, NOMINATION OF BRETT KAVANAUGH How can our Republican colleagues tax reform made possible a 400-percent resist this simple letter when it is the increase in plant size. Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, exact same letter they pushed for, and In my home State of Kentucky, it is the Senate has a constitutional duty to we acceded to, when the shoe was on estimated that more than 1,000 con- provide advice and consent and a spe- the other foot? struction jobs will be needed to help cial obligation to thoroughly examine The letter requests the entirety of build a new aluminum rolling mill for Supreme Court nominations. After all, Elena Kagan’s record, not part of it, Braidy Industries. Over the next 7 there are few positions in our govern- not a subset of it—all of it. What is years, tax reform is expected to save ment with greater importance or re- good enough for Justice Kagan is good the company—listen to this—$150 mil- sponsibility than a lifetime appoint- enough for Judge Kavanaugh. You lion, which will help to support this in- ment on the Nation’s highest Court. It could simply replace her name with vestment and the 600 permanent new is now our job to carefully, thoroughly, Judge Kavanaugh’s name throughout jobs the company estimates it will cre- and methodically review the record of this letter, and the letter would be ex- ate in the Commonwealth. Judge Brett Kavanaugh, and we have actly applicable today. This is the So let’s sum it up. Republican poli- quite a job ahead of us. standard Democrats and Republicans cies have helped generate the very out- As a partisan political lawyer during used to agree on, the Kagan standard— comes Democrats claim they wanted. the Clinton and Bush years, Brett and it wasn’t just Senators LEAHY and American manufacturing is thriving on Kavanaugh has a paper trail a mile Sessions. our watch, but now Democrats aren’t long. There is no doubt the White At the time, Senator GRASSLEY, now cheering. In fact, they have tried to House and Leader MCCONNELL were chairman—the burden is on him to help

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Leader MCCONNELL, the Social Security Administration, be a Justice.’’ unprecedentedly, let Merrick Garland the SEC, the IRS, and the FBI, would Let me read it again. This is what stew and not have a hearing. be subject to vast political influence Chairman GRASSLEY said—now chair- We understand the pressure, but it is from the White House. That is exactly man, then a member of the Judiciary not good for the Republicans, and it is the opposite of what Congress has pro- Committee: ‘‘In order for the Senate to not good for comity in this body, which vided by law. fulfill its constitutional duty of advise we are seeking. I see the chairman of Senators and the public will have to and consent, we must get all of [Elena the Appropriations Committee. We are make up their minds about what Judge Kagan’s] documents from the Clinton trying to get comity on appropriations. Kavanaugh believes, and they will have Library and have enough time to ana- Stuff like this poisons the well. It does. to think of it in the broad, long-term lyze them so we can determine whether Just last week, we witnessed the context but also in the context of this she should be a Justice.’’ firsthand importance of reviewing a President, who seems to have less re- Senator GRASSLEY is a good man. nominee’s full record. The White House spect for the rule of law, less respect Senator GRASSLEY has a real sense of was forced to withdraw the nomination for separation of power, and less re- integrity and fairness. That is why so of Ryan Bounds for a seat on the Ninth spect for anyone who stands in his way many of us are wondering why there is Circuit after abhorrent writings from than any President I have seen in my such a double standard right now. We his college newspaper came to light. If lifetime. hope he will join Senator FEINSTEIN in the college newspaper writings of a po- Everyone will have to make up their a joint letter, just as Senator LEAHY tential appellate judge are significant minds about that. I understand that. and Senator Sessions came together on enough to disqualify him from consid- That is what we are here for, but it such a letter a while ago. eration, how can my colleagues on the seems clear that in the context of Senator CORNYN at the time, now the other side argue with a straight face Judge Kavanaugh’s writings about the No. 2 man in the Republican hierarchy that Judge Kavanaugh’s record should Presidency, that the statement ques- here in the Senate, said: ‘‘I think it not be fully considered before the Sen- tioning the Nixon decision reflects his would be a mistake to hold the hearing ate moves forward on his nomination actual beliefs. That is why we need to until we’ve had a chance to see [Elena to this Nation’s highest Court—one of obtain, analyze, and scrutinize his Kagan’s] documents and any other doc- the most powerful institutions in the record. That is our job as U.S. Sen- uments that might exist . . . [and] world? ators, a job Members from both sides of we’ve had an adequate time to review There is a lot we don’t know about the aisle used to agree on. the documents.’’ Judge Kavanaugh. We are learning f This happens especially when it more about him each day. Just a few comes to judges. The double standard days ago, for example, we learned he THE PRESIDENT’S FOREIGN of the other side is enormous. When had expressed skepticism about the Su- POLICY they are in the minority, they profess preme Court that held President Nixon Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, fi- strong arguments, push us to go along, accountable. It is another example of nally, just a few points as I see my col- and usually we do. But now that they Judge Kavanaugh expressing the view leagues are waiting. I wish to make a are in the majority, it is as if there is that Presidential power should be vir- few points on Iran and President a whole new world and what happened tually unconstrained. One that is still Trump’s tweets. First, it seems the in the past doesn’t make a darn bit of amazing to me, and I would like to see President is desperate to distract the difference. That is not fair. That is not if there is more of it in his records be- American people from last week’s per- right. cause it is so extreme a view, is that formance in Helsinki. He always seems We, on this side, have had enough of Judge Kavanaugh suggested a Presi- to do this: He runs into trouble, and he the other side’s hypocrisy on judges. dent can ignore a statute he ‘‘deems’’— creates a whole new firestorm some- We know there is a push by the hard his word—unconstitutional even if a where else. It is his MO. It is not the right to fill the bench so they can court ruled it was constitutional. That way we have seen government work in achieve their agenda, which they could is like a King, not a President. We have the United States, but that is what he never achieve—even with Republican the rule of law here. does. He is the President. majorities in the House, Senate, and He said sitting Presidents should not Second, the tweets suggest a pattern Presidency—through the elected bod- be subject to an investigation of any in President Trump’s foreign policy in ies. kind, other than an impeachment in- which the President uses heated rhet- The kinds of attitudes that we have quiry by Congress. oric with foreign capitals to inflame seen by the conservative Justices— Judge Kavanaugh’s belief in unchal- and intensify tensions so later on the which we believe Judge Kavanaugh lenged Presidential power is so in- President can pretend to ride in and might well accede to, and that is why grained that he has even questioned save the day with a more measured we want a hearing—are not what the constitutionality of what he calls tone. It is sort of like a Kabuki play. It America wants on issue after issue the ‘‘independent regulatory state,’’ a screws up our foreign policy. after issue. This is the hard right’s No. phrase that sounds awfully familiar to We saw this play out in North Korea. 1 goal. the hard-right myth of a deep state. President Trump repeatedly insulted They embraced Donald Trump only This is a radically activist view for a Kim Jong Un on Twitter, only to de- after he agreed to a list of 25 judges judge who advertises himself as some- clare world peace once the two of them that the Federalist Society and Herit- one who will merely interpret the law had met. It seems as if the President’s age Foundation suggested; both are far as written. Congress has, by law, given foreign policy is to commit arson so he away from where Americans feel on certain agencies varying degrees of can play the firefighter. He lights the issues like healthcare, government in- independence from the Executive. That fire and then puts it out and gives him- volvement, and choice. That is when started in the 1890s. That is not new, self a huge pat on the back. they embraced him. and there is an ebb and flow to it. Not surprisingly, this reality TV for- There is huge pressure; I get that. We Sometimes Congress feels the regula- eign policy hasn’t produced the con- have pressure on our side too. But the tions have gone too far and push back; crete results we are all looking for and double standard is so glaring, so unfair, sometimes they feel they need more, must secure. It has been 2 months since that it is appalling. and they push forward. There has been the President met with Chairman Kim. People say: Well, on judges, it has an ebb and flow in history since the Yet we have seen little in the way of ir- been tit for tat. It really hasn’t. It 1890s, but almost no one has said—ex- reversible steps toward

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.003 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5230 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 denuclearization. We don’t even have what is good for the process because we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- details on the agreement. Secretary want to do what is right by the Amer- ator from Vermont. Pompeo went over there and was just ican people. Mr. LEAHY. Madam President, I am given the cold shoulder. Kim wouldn’t This approach is yielding meaningful pleased to join my friend, the senior meet with him and said nasty things results thus far. The Interior and Fi- Senator from Alabama, Chairman about him. Still, the President nancial Services bills in this package SHELBY, as we prepare to debate the claims—I think he is alone here—that both won the unanimous approval of second set of appropriations bills to the North Korean summit was a huge the Appropriations Committee, which reach the Senate floor this session. success. is generally unheard of—unanimous, Senator SHELBY has noted that this is Certainly, the world is a safer place Madam President. We haven’t seen a change in recent years. I commend without President Trump and Chair- that level of support for these bills in him, and I commend both Republicans man Kim trading barbs on social quite some time around here. and Democrats who have worked to- media. Those tactics make America The Agriculture and Transportation, gether in the way we used to and now weaker. We all want diplomacy to suc- Housing and Urban Development bills are again. This minibus contains four ceed. We all want a strong deal with also garnered unanimous support of the important bills for fiscal year 2019: the North Korea, but the cessation of rhe- Appropriations Committee. Interior, Environment, and Related torical hostilities is no replacement for I want to take a minute to commend Agencies bill; the Financial Services concrete, verifiable steps toward the chairmen of these subcommittees— and General Government bill; the Agri- denuclearization. Senator MURKOWSKI, Senator COLLINS, culture, Rural Development, Food and The same holds true for Iran. I hope Senator HOEVEN, and Senator Drug Administration, and Related the President isn’t reaching into the LANKFORD—for their leadership in the Agencies bill; and the Transportation, same old social media playbook, using process. I also, again, thank Vice Housing, and Urban Development and rhetoric as a replacement for the hard Chairman LEAHY and the ranking Related Agencies bills. work of diplomacy. members of these subcommittees for Now, that was something significant I yield the floor. their hard work. These Senators have to be on the Senate floor in past years. f worked together to produce strong and, What is even more significant—and I believe, bipartisan bills. Chairman SHELBY would agree with INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, FINAN- This broad bipartisan support paved me—each of these bills was reported by CIAL SERVICES, AND GENERAL the way for the full Senate’s consider- the Appropriations Committee unani- GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ation of these bills, and I thank Lead- mously. Every Republican, every Dem- ACT, 2019 ers MCCONNELL and SCHUMER for agree- ocrat voted for them. They fund pro- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under ing to bring this package to the floor. grams that provide important services the previous order, the Senate will re- As we begin debate this week, we can to the American people across the sume consideration of H.R. 6147, which leverage our recent success in passing country. They invest in the future of the clerk will report. appropriations bills. Just last month, this country. The senior assistant legislative clerk the Senate passed a package of three Let me take one example, the Agri- read as follows: fiscal year 2019 appropriations bills culture appropriations bill. This bill is A bill (H.R. 6147) making appropriations with overwhelming support. This sup- a win for farmers, for families, and for for the Department of the Interior, environ- port was facilitated by an open amend- rural communities through its invest- ment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ment process and a willingness to work ments in rural development, housing, ending September 30, 2019, and for other pur- together to address legitimate Member food, nutrition, agriculture, research, poses. concerns. As a result, the process was and clean water programs. Every State Pending: both open and, I believe, disciplined. in this Nation—yours, Chairman Shelby amendment No. 3399, in the nature More importantly, it was successful, SHELBY’s, and everybody else’s, and of of a substitute. passing by a vote of 86 to 5—yes, 86 to course my own State of Vermont—has Murkowski amendment No. 3400 (to amend- 5. rural communities and farm economies ment No. 3399), of a perfecting nature. The bill managers on both sides of that benefit from these important pro- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the aisle will seek to replicate this grams, every one of us does. ator from Alabama. process and success with the package The Transportation, Housing, and Mr. SHELBY. Madam President, this now before the Senate. We ask for the Urban Development bill will make crit- week the Senate takes another step to- continued cooperation of all Senators ical infrastructure investments across ward regular order in the appropria- in this effort. the country and, of course, also in my tions process in the Senate. Critical mass, that is what we are home State of Vermont. It includes $10 The package before the Senate today building in the Senate—critical mass billion in new funds—new funds—to contains the fiscal year 2019 appropria- for returning to regular order in the help address our crumbling bridges and tions bills for the Subcommittees on appropriations process. railways and roads. Let me just say, if Interior; Financial Services; Agri- By completing our work in a delib- I might be parochial for a moment, culture; and Transportation, Housing erate and timely manner on this pack- what that means in Vermont. It will and Urban Development. We have not age, we can turn next to the Defense help invest in safety improvements on debated an interior appropriations bill and Labor-HHS-Education package. Amtrak’s Vermonter and Ethan Allen on the floor of the U.S. Senate in near- While completion of our work on the lines but also will make much needed ly 10 years. current package will mean we have repairs to our railroads and bridges. The Financial Services appropria- passed more than half of the 2019 ap- These increases in every one of our tions bill has not seen floor action in propriations bills, the lion’s share of States are a direct result of the bipar- several years either. Why? Because discretionary spending, as my col- tisan budget deal reached earlier this year after year, party-line votes in leagues know, is contained in the De- year, and they are critically needed. committees represented the end of the fense and Labor-HHS bills. That is very I have been here for over 40 years. line in the legislative process. Yet here important to all of us here, very impor- What Senator SHELBY and I have done we are today debating both of these ap- tant to our constituents, and very im- is we have brought the Senate back to propriations bills and more on the Sen- portant to our country. the way it used to be to actually get ate floor. Again, I encourage our colleagues to things done with Republicans and So what changed? What changed was participate in this process and help Democrats working together. the mindset of appropriators on both sustain the momentum we have gen- Improving the Nation’s infrastruc- sides of the aisle who embraced a will- erated thus far. We have a lot of work ture was one of President Trump’s key ingness to sacrifice partisan riders and to do, but we are making real progress. campaign promises. Unfortunately, he priorities outside the committee’s ju- I hope my colleagues find this encour- criticized the very budget deal that risdiction for the good of the process. aging. I certainly do. made these increases possible. He pro- Together we have committed to do With that, I yield the floor. posed cutting—not increasing—funding

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.004 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5231 for infrastructure programs that this the Shelby-Leahy-McConnell-Schumer order in moving the appropriations bill supports. I am glad to say, again, commitment to move forward on a bi- bills across the Senate floor, allowing that Republicans and Democrats came partisan basis. for robust debate and amendment, and together on appropriations and took a Senator SHELBY and I met with the then bringing those bills to conference different path. This bill also protects two leaders and said we wanted to do with our House counterparts. That is key investments in affordable housing that. We wanted to actually show the the way the system should work, as op- and community development pro- Nation that the Senate can work, and posed to all of these bills being bundled grams, such as HOME and CDBG. That we did it at spending levels agreed to in together in an enormous, many thou- is crucial funding that communities le- the bipartisan budget deal. We rejected sand-page omnibus appropriations bill. verage to construct, rehabilitate, and new poison pill riders from the right I am very pleased to see the progress maintain affordable housing. This is and the left or controversial author- that we are making. housing that is desperately needed izing legislation. I also want to acknowledge the hard across America—certainly in my State We will all have issues about which work and commitment of my friend of Vermont—to shelter families, but it we care deeply, but we had to come to- and colleague Senator JACK REED, who also promotes economic mobility and gether on what is in the best interests serves as the ranking member of the T- stability. of the country, and, frankly, as a Sen- HUD Subcommittee. I have worked The Interior bill makes critical in- ator for almost 44 years, it was in the very closely with Senator REED in vestments in programs to help ensure best interests of the Senate. drafting this bill. We have also re- we have clean water to drink and clean I think Senator SHELBY would agree ceived input from more than 70 Sen- air to breathe. I can’t think of any with me that achieving this goal of re- ators, with in excess of 800 requests, State in the country that doesn’t want porting strong, bipartisan bills took each of which we very carefully evalu- clean water and doesn’t want clean air. considerable restraint on both sides of ated. So I can assure this Chamber that It also supports important conserva- the aisle, but that restraint is what is this legislation is truly bipartisan. tion programs, including support for required to get these bills through the The T-HUD bill provides $71.4 billion our national parks. Our national parks Senate. But I worry that the House is for our Nation’s critical infrastructure attract millions of visitors each year. proceeding on a different path. They and housing programs. This bill con- What a treasure, allowing families to have passed partisan bills filled with tinues the significant infrastructure come and see such an important part of poison pill riders that cannot and will investments provided in fiscal year 2018 America. I think it is quite in the tra- not pass the Senate. for our Nation’s highways, bridges, air- dition of Teddy Roosevelt and others Funding the government is one of our ports, transit, and rail networks. As a who had supported such parks, but it most basic constitutional responsibil- result, communities across this coun- also has the Forest Legacy Program ities. If you go across this country, you try will be able to improve their trans- and the Land and Water Conservation will find that the American people ex- portation infrastructure to enable Fund. The Land and Water Conserva- pect us to work together. They expect more efficient and safer movement of tion Fund is going to be beneficial for us to reach across the aisle and to people and goods. Improving our infra- Vermont, New York, and, truly, the reach agreement on these bills. The structure is essential for our continued whole northeast region. The bill con- programs funded in these bills make a economic growth as well as for per- tinues our commitment to regional ef- real difference in the American peo- sonal mobility. forts to protect, restore, and preserve ple’s lives, and they shouldn’t be held The fiscal year 2019 T-HUD bill con- Lake Champlain, the largest body of hostage to unrelated partisan policy tinues the increases for infrastructure fresh water in the United States out- fights. So I hope that when we get to programs resulting from the 2-year side of the Great Lakes. conference on these bills, the House budget agreement that was reached by I am pleased to report that the com- will reverse and do their work in a bi- Congress and the administration. I mittee rejected the misguided cuts to partisan fashion for the benefit of all would note, however, that the budget the Environmental Protection Agency Americans—not just Republicans, not agreement does not provide for the proposed by the administration that just Democrats, but all Americans. long-term funding structure necessary would have set back the progress we I especially want to thank Chairman for our Nation’s transportation infra- have made in recent decades to pre- SHELBY for his partnership on these structure. I want to strongly encourage serve our environment not just for our- bills. I also thank the chairs and rank- the administration to work with the selves but for future generations. ing members of each of the subcommit- authorizing committees to provide that Finally, the Financial Services bill tees. If they hadn’t been willing to long-term, sustainable funding for helps to support small businesses and work and cooperate together, we transportation before the FAST Act local economies through the Small wouldn’t have these four bills before expires at the end of fiscal year 2020. Business Development Centers Pro- us. Again, I note that they went Our bill provides $1 billion for BUILD gram and other related programs. through unanimously. We had reached grants, previously known as the pop- Every one of us knows that small busi- a point where some thought that we ular TIGER grants program. These nesses and local economies make up couldn’t get unanimous agreement in grants have supported not only much the strength of our States. the Senate that the sun rises in the needed infrastructure projects but also It also funds regulatory agencies that east. Maybe we couldn’t, but we did get jobs and economic growth in each and U.S. citizens rely on to protect them unanimous agreement here, and thank every one of our home States. I want to from unfair, unsafe, or fraudulent busi- goodness. provide my colleagues with an indica- ness practices, like the Consumer Prod- Madam President, I yield the floor. tion of just how popular this program uct Safety Commission and the Federal The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- is and how strong the demand is. Trade Commission, which protect con- ator from Maine. In the 2017 round of TIGER grant ap- sumers. Yet we were able to reach con- Ms. COLLINS. Madam President, I plications, the Department of Trans- sent to consider such a broad package am pleased to begin the Senate debate portation received 452 applications re- of bills in the Senate. on the fiscal year 2019 appropriations questing more than $6 billion, well This is a broad cross section of bill for Transportation, Housing and above the $500 million provided last issues, and every one of us had dif- Urban Development, and Related Agen- year, which could fund only 41 projects. ferent views. With the vast array of cies. Our bill has been included in the You can see that the demand far ex- issues here, every one of the 100 Sen- appropriations package now before this ceeds the amount of funding. So we are ators here, if writing this legislation Chamber. taking action in this bill to double the by himself or herself, may include Let me begin my remarks this morn- funding for BUILD grants. That will something different or something else, ing by thanking Chairman SHELBY and help many more projects become a re- and, then, of course, we would have Vice Chairman LEAHY for their leader- ality. I have seen in my own State the nothing. Instead, Republicans and ship in advancing these appropriations investments in bridges, ports, and Democrats came together. I think a lot bills in record time. It is great to see transportation projects that have made of this comes from the direct result of the Senate getting back to regular such a difference.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.006 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5232 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 I would now like to turn to the avia- dents, such as the tragic derailment lion for grants targeting this under- tion provisions in our bill. We provide last December in Washington State. served population. $17.7 billion in budgetary resources for Our bill continues to fund positive I visited a wonderful youth shelter in the Federal Aviation Administration, train control implementation to im- Lewiston, ME, called New Beginnings. I or the FAA, which fully funds air traf- prove the safety of our trains. In addi- was so impressed with the work they fic control personnel, including more tion, the bill provides $255 million for were doing with teenagers, in par- than 14,000 air traffic controllers and the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure ticular, many of whom had been exiled more than 25,000 engineers, mainte- and Safety Improvement Grants Pro- from their homes—as much as I hate to nance technicians, safety inspectors, gram and $300 million for the Federal- say it—or abused or otherwise found and operational support personnel. The State partnership for the State of Good themselves homeless. Because of the bill also provides $1 billion for the FAA Repair Grants Program. These invest- safety of this shelter, they were con- Next Generation Air Transportation ments in rail will help ensure that both tinuing their schooling, they were Systems Program, also known as passengers and freight move more safe- learning life skills, and they were safe. NextGen, and $168 million for the pop- ly and efficiently throughout our coun- Yet, I will tell you, this is the only ular Contract Towers Program. The try. shelter in the State of Maine that is NextGen Program is so important to The State maritime academies play a devoted solely to the needs of homeless the modernization of our air traffic critical role in training the next gen- youth. control system, and we have consist- eration of U.S. mariners. Our bill pro- There is such a need in this country. ently funded that program, and it is vides $40 million for the maritime There are other shelters that try to ac- being implemented in a way that is academies as well as an additional $300 commodate young people in the State going to make a real difference. million for a special purpose vessel to of Maine and are doing their best, but Consistent with the FAST Act, $46 be used as a training school ship. this is an area where we need to pro- billion is made available for the Fed- In accordance with MARAD’s guid- vide more assistance. eral-Aid Highway Program from the ance, the new training ships will go to To better support youth who are highway trust fund. In addition, the replace existing training ships in the exiting the foster care system, the bill bill provides $3.3 billion from the gen- order in which these ships are expected includes $20 million for family unifica- eral fund for our Nation’s highways, of to reach the end of their useful life. tion vouchers. That is the real gap in which $800 million is for bridge replace- That is the only logical way for us to our system. What happens—and I know ment and rehabilitation in rural areas proceed. that many Members share my con- of our country. Last year, we appropriated funds to cern—is young people ‘‘age out’’ of the The American Society of Civil Engi- replace the 57-year-old ship used by the foster care program, and they may neers conducts a comprehensive assess- New York State maritime academy, have nowhere safe to go. ment of our Nation’s infrastructure and this year’s funding will go to re- For our Nation’s senior population, every 4 years. Its most recent report place the Massachusetts Maritime many of our seniors receive section 8 card from 2017 shows that America’s in- Academy’s aging vessel. Again, we are housing, but our bill also includes $678 frastructure remains poor and in des- going in the order that the Maritime million for housing for older Ameri- perate need of investment. In fact, the Administration tells us these ships will cans. Of this amount, $10 million will engineers award a grade of only D-plus be at the end of their useful life. provide grants to nonprofit and State for our Nation’s infrastructure. It would be great to be able to re- and local entities to do home modifica- To give you some statistics to em- place all of the ships at the same time, tions for low-income seniors, enabling phasize why we are receiving such a but we simply can’t afford to do that, them to stay in their own homes and to low grade, let me talk about our Na- and that is where prioritizing the ships age in place. tion’s bridges. One in nine of our Na- as the agency recommends comes in. I am very excited about this program tion’s bridges is rated as structurally Replacing these ships is, however, im- because of hearings I have held in the deficient, and the average age of our portant to providing training capacity Senate Aging Committee, which I am country’s more than 600,000 bridges is for all six of the State maritime acad- privileged to chair. What we have 42 years old. Our national highway sys- emies, including the one that I am very learned is, oftentimes, upgrading and tem contains infrastructure that is proud of, the Maine Maritime Academy putting grab bars in a bathroom, wid- now well past its useful life. Some in Castine, Maine. It will ensure that ening door openings, putting sensors on bridges are more than 100 years old, cadets receive the training hours they the refrigerator door—doing modifica- and many are unable to accommodate need to graduate on time and join the tions like that can allow our seniors to today’s traffic volumes. workforce. stay where they want to be, in the I was recently in Piscataquis County, In the area of housing, our priority is comfort, security, and privacy of their where a TIGER Grant Program was al- to ensure that our Nation’s most vul- own homes. Not only will these low- lowing the replacement of some very nerable families and individuals do not cost home modifications enable seniors old rural bridges. The amount of rust lose the assistance they are now receiv- to remain in their homes, but they also on these bridges and the narrow width ing, which prevents many of them from reduce the need for more costly nurs- made them extraordinarily dangerous. being at risk of homelessness. There- ing homes and other assisted housing They were at risk of being posted so fore, the bill provides the necessary options. that traffic could go across only in one funding to keep pace with the rising For our Nation’s homeless veterans, direction. When you looked up at the costs of housing these families in order the bill provides $45 million for the trusses, you could see where trucks to avoid their becoming homeless. highly successful HUD-VASH Program, loaded with lumber had dented the Much of the increased funding covers including $5 million to serve our Native trusses because they were far too low. the higher costs of rental assistance for American veterans living on Tribal They were built for a different era. It is the most vulnerable among us, includ- lands. Despite the administration, once important for safety reasons—as we ing our homeless veterans, our youth, again, proposing to eliminate this ef- have seen with bridges collapsing in our disabled citizens, and low-income fective program, the subcommittee this country or having to be posted— seniors. continues to provide adequate funding. that we make this kind of investment. Senator REED and I share a strong This program is a real success story. Our bill also invests in our Nation’s commitment to reducing, and someday Since we initiated it in 2010, veterans rail infrastructure by providing $2.8 ending, homelessness. We have there- homelessness has fallen by 46 percent. billion for the Federal Railroad Admin- fore included $2.6 billion for homeless Let’s continue our work to reach the istration. This includes $1.9 billion to assistance grants. We have also made goal of ending homelessness altogether Amtrak for the Northeast Corridor and critical investments to reduce home- among our veterans. National Network, continuing service lessness among our veterans, our Another important issue—and a pas- for all current routes. youth, and survivors of domestic vio- sion of our ranking member, Senator In May, our subcommittee held a lence. Specifically, to assist our home- REED, and I—that is addressed by the hearing in response to serious rail acci- less youth, we have provided $80 mil- bill is lead paint in homes, which is of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.008 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5233 particular concern to families with I am certainly proud to have worked The bill also provides $285 million for children under the age of 6. Our bill with Chairman COLLINS. She has put programs that remediate lead-based provides $260 million to combat lead together a thoughtful, bipartisan T- paint hazards in low-income and as- hazards. These grants will help commu- HUD Appropriations bill that reflects sisted housing. This includes $25 mil- nities protect children from the harm- the priorities of more than 70 Senators, lion to address lead-based paint haz- ful effects of lead poisoning. who provided more than 800 funding or ards in public housing and $45 million Again, I have seen this in my home language recommendations. Her lead- for a new Lead Safe Communities Dem- State. Lewiston, ME, our second larg- ership and her commitment to fairness onstration Program, which has the po- est city, has very old housing stock, and to ensuring that all of our col- tential to reduce the cost of remedi- and it has a great deal of lead paint. leagues had the opportunity to help ating lead-based paint hazards in Grants are helping this city deal with make investments in their States are homes. this problem, thus improving the remarkable and deeply appreciated. For our Nation’s seniors, the bill in- health and safety of pregnant women We looked at all of our colleagues’ cludes more than $50 million to develop and young children and avoiding dis- suggestions and recommendations. We new senior housing and $10 million to ability and developmental problems for also received guidance from Chairman modify low-income seniors’ homes to those young children. SHELBY and Vice Chairman LEAHY, and make them more accessible. In Rhode These grants will help communities I appreciate their creative and con- Island—and we are not unique—nearly across America protect children from structive role. As a result, we were able half of our senior households lack an the harmful effects of lead poisoning. to produce legislation I am remarkably affordable housing option. This funding While our bill certainly helps vulner- proud of, and I again thank the chair- will be used to develop innovative able families, it also recognizes the man for her great work. housing strategies and ensure that our challenges facing local communities. The bill does not include any poison Nation’s seniors are able to remain in Boosting local communities is critical pill riders, which follows the principle their communities. It is remarkable. to job creation and helping our commu- established by Chairman SHELBY and Half of our seniors are without afford- nity neighborhoods thrive and our fam- Vice Chairman LEAHY. able housing, and that number is only ilies obtain financial security. This agreement has given the com- going to grow as the demographics of The bill supports local development mittee space to evaluate the requests this country continue on their present efforts by providing $3.3 billion through of the administration and Congress and course. the Community Development Block to provide funding levels that support Again, in terms of housing, let me Grant Program. That is one of the national priorities. I strongly urge my single out an issue where the chairman most popular programs we provide. If colleagues to maintain this effort and has been extraordinarily not only con- you talk to any mayor or town council, not get diverted by very peripheral and scientious but also courageous. That is homelessness among youth, veterans, they will tell you how flexible the narrow interests in the form of what is and survivors of domestic violence. CDBG Program is and how, as the frequently referred to as ‘‘poison pills.’’ Having said that, as the chairman in- Chairman COLLINS has done remark- mayor in Maine with whom I recently dicated, we welcome amendments and able work. She has been building on met told me, it helps them customize encourage Senators to file them as the work we did together on the the funding to meet the program needs soon as possible so we can begin to HEARTH Act to develop innovative, of their communities. It may be infra- work through them. We have already targeted ways to comprehensively ad- structure. It may be affordable hous- heard from a few colleagues, and we dress homelessness nationally. I am ing. It may be sprucing up the down- have several amendments we are pre- pleased we are able to include more town. It may be supporting local busi- paring to move forward. than $2.6 billion in assistance for com- nesses. This is a great program. It is Substantively, let me share some of munities to continue to provide emer- not a Washington dictated program. It the significant accomplishments in gency and community-driven solutions is one that responds to local needs. this year’s T-HUD bill. Consistent with to prevent and end homelessness. We also provide $1.4 billion for the the budget agreement, the bill includes Let me also say a few words about HOME Program. The CDBG and the $10.9 billion in budgetary resources the other bills that are part of this HOME Program support the develop- above fiscal year 2017 levels to improve minibus package—the Agriculture Ap- ment of infrastructure projects, com- our Nation’s infrastructure, grow our propriations bill, the Interior Appro- munity development, affordable hous- economy, and spur job creation. priations bill, and the Financial Serv- ing, economic development, and job The bills include $3.3 billion above ices-General Government Appropria- creation. the levels provided in the FAST Act for tions bill. Each of these bills includes I appreciate the opportunity to highway programs, including $800 mil- important funding for key programs, present this legislation to the Cham- lion for a bridge repair and replace- and each has steered away from the ber. As we begin debate on the Trans- ment program. kind of controversial legislative provi- portation-HUD bill, I urge my col- On rail and transit, we have main- sions that would prevent them from leagues to support the investments in tained Amtrak’s funding level from fis- moving to the floor. this bill, which will pay dividends to cal year 2018, including $650 million for I am pleased the Agriculture bill in- our communities, our veterans, our the Northeast Corridor, to make mean- cludes critical funding for nutrition, children, our low-income families, and ingful state of good repair and safety conservation, and research, including our seniors. Our bill was unanimously improvements. We have also fully fund- additional funding to help foster the reported by the Senate Appropriations ed the need for Capital Investment growth of shellfish aquaculture. Committee. We are certainly open for Grants and have increased transit for- The Interior bill continues to make business for amendments. mula and competitive grant programs important investments in infrastruc- I commend my friend and colleague above FAST Act levels. These modes of ture through the State Revolving Loan Senator REED for his hard work and for transportation are essential to reduc- Fund programs for clean water and that of our staffs on both sides of the ing congestion, driving economic drinking water, which Senator CRAPO aisle in crafting this bill. growth, and improving quality of life and I have championed on a bipartisan I yield the floor. throughout the country. basis for many years. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. I am also pleased that we have a bill The bill highlights the need to estab- YOUNG). The Senator from Rhode Is- before us that protects rental assist- lish a maximum contaminant level for land. ance for more than 5 million low-in- PFAS, a category of chemicals that Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise in come individuals and families, over has been used in a wide variety of prod- support of H.R. 6147, the so-called ap- half of whom are elderly or disabled, ucts, including firefighting foam. propriations ‘‘minibus,’’ which includes and rejects the administration’s harm- Frankly, as Ranking Member of the the fiscal year 2019 Transportation, ful proposals to increase rent burdens Armed Services Committee, I have Housing and Urban Development, and and work requirements for many of our been told of numerous military facili- Related Agencies Appropriations bill, assisted households, who are already ties across the country where this fire- as well as three other bills. struggling to make ends meet. fighting foam has been used for 30 or 40

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.010 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5234 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 years, and now we are beginning to rec- terior; Transportation, Housing and These programs are critical to help- ognize the potential environmental ef- Urban Development; and also Financial ing our farmers increase production, fects. Dealing with this issue now, or Services in putting together this legis- and they expand our Nation’s economic beginning to deal with it, is a very lation. growth. As I say, they feed not only thoughtful approach. For now, I am going to limit my this country but really the world. Not In addition to providing critical dol- comments to the ag provisions. I will only does every dollar spent on ag re- lars for our national parks, wildlife ref- defer to my colleagues on their provi- search result in a $20 return on invest uges, and cultural institutions, this sions, but I look forward to our part- to the U.S. economy, research invest- bill also funds the Southeast New Eng- nership in moving these bills across the ment also results in a food supply that land Program for Coastal Watershed floor. is safe, abundant, and affordable. Restoration to support collaborative The activities funded by the Agri- I am also glad the agriculture bill and science-based projects that im- culture bill touch the lives of every prioritizes funding for rural infrastruc- prove the health of Narragansett Bay American every day. I like to talk ture. Included is $425 million for rural and other coastal watersheds in Rhode about how important good farm policy broadband grants and loans, putting Island and Massachusetts. is because good farm policy benefits our 2-year investment in rural Finally, the Financial Services-Gen- every single American every single day broadband at over $1 billion. Through eral Government bill makes important with the highest quality, lowest cost fiscal year 2018-fiscal year 2019, we will investments in our leading financial food supply. put over a billion dollars into rural regulators—the SEC and the CFTC—as As we move this Agriculture appro- broadband, making sure all Americans, well as provides funding for the Com- priations bill, that is what it is about. wherever they may live—whether they munity Development Financial Insti- It is about our farmers and ranchers, are in an urban area or out in the most tutions program, the High Intensity no doubt about that, but it is some- rural part of our country—have the op- Drug Trafficking Areas program, and thing that benefits every single Amer- portunity to access the world wide web the SBA’s State Trade Expansion Pro- ican every single day. and be part of the innovation and tech- motion program. These activities include ag research, nology that goes with it. With this I commend the chair and ranking conservation activities, housing and funding, we will make tremendous member of each of these subcommit- business loan programs for rural com- strides in bridging the digital divide in tees for their hard work on these bills. munities, domestic and international urban and rural communities. Before I conclude, I note that these nutrition programs, and food safety Broadband availability remains a smart investments and well-crafted and drug safety. challenge for States like mine, a rural bills would not have been possible Funding for each of these deserves State, and other rural States. Farmers without the passage of the 2-year Bi- thorough and thoughtful consideration. need access to new precision tech- partisan Budget Act, which provided The subcommittee has made difficult nologies to help their operations run much needed relief from sequester- decisions in drafting this bill. We had more efficiently. It is also essential for level budget caps, but that is only a 2- to choose and we had to prioritize in rural communities to have sufficient year deal, which expires at the end of terms of putting this legislation to- broadband if they hope to attract new fiscal year 2019. With the return of gether, but I think we brought forward businesses and grow their local econo- harmful sequester cuts looming in 2020, a bill that works. It is one that got mies. I am proud to say that we put this bill should serve as a reminder of broad-based bipartisan support from funding in this bill to help to do just why we must pursue another bipartisan the Appropriations Committee. that. agreement to provide relief on both the It is written to our allocation of just I thank Senator MERKLEY, our rank- defense and nondefense sides of the over $23 billion. That is about $200 mil- ing member, for the bipartisan working ledger. Without such a deal, we will not lion above the current enacted level. relationship that we have on the Agri- be able to continue our infrastructure We worked hard to invest taxpayer dol- culture Subcommittee. I also want to and other investments that make a lars responsibly, funding programs that applaud and express my appreciation to positive difference in communities provide direct benefits to our farmers, Chairman SHELBY for working to re- across America. our ranchers, and rural communities, turn our Appropriations Committee to Again, let me conclude by thanking, regular order. I think this ag bill that supporting programs that provide di- recognizing, and deeply appreciating we are presenting today reflects a well- rect health and safety benefits, again, the chairman for her extraordinary vi- balanced compromise, and it illus- to every single American every single sion and her commitment to those val- trates that the Senate can work to- day. ues and those issues that are remark- gether on important issues like this Ag supports more than 16 million ably demonstrated in this bill: afford- one. jobs nationwide. It forms the backbone able housing for seniors, assistance for I certainly hope that my colleagues the homeless, and ensuring that we of our rural communities. Our agricul- will join me in supporting this legisla- have money for infrastructure. tural producers are the best in the tion. With that, I turn to our ranking world at what they do, and we have to This bill shows a remarkable com- member, Senator MERKLEY. mitment to infrastructure across the work hard to give them a level playing I yield the floor. country. When the President was cam- field because they produce food, fuel, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- paigning, he talked about a trillion- and fiber for this country but also for ator from Oregon. dollar infrastructure bill. That has not countries around the world. We really Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, as materialized. What has materialized is do feed the world, so we need access to ranking member of the Agriculture Ap- robust funding for infrastructure in those markets to do so. propriations Subcommittee, I rise this bill, and that is a direct contribu- This is, of course, in part, the result today to discuss the Agriculture appro- tion of the chairman. of smart investment in America’s ag priations bill. This is a good bill that I yield the floor. research infrastructure, something was drafted in a bipartisan manner and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- that truly helps our farmers and ranch- passed out of committee unanimously. ator from North Dakota. ers, our producers do what they do A big thanks goes to Chairman Mr. HOEVEN. Mr. President, I am every day. Ag research helps us do it HOEVEN for his hard work on the bill, pleased to introduce the fiscal year 2019 better, more cost-effectively, with as well to members of his team who appropriations bill for Agriculture, higher quality, and more productivity. worked closely with members of my Rural Development, Food and Drug Ad- That is why I am pleased this bill team throughout this process and con- ministration, and Related Agencies. I puts significant emphasis on maintain- sidered requests and concerns from am glad we are considering appropria- ing research programs at our land- Senators on both sides of the aisle. tions bills on the floor in a manner grant schools, colleges and univer- In his budget request, President that allows us to fully debate amend- sities, across this Nation and funding Trump proposed more than a 25-percent ments. for competitive research programs such cut to USDA’s funding. He also zeroed I am pleased also to join my col- as the Agriculture and Food Research out a number of very important pro- leagues from the Subcommittees on In- Initiative. grams, including programs that benefit

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.021 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5235 rural America, along with research Food for Peace has reached over 3 bil- tisan work to support rural commu- programs and domestic and inter- lion people in 150 countries and more nities and rural infrastructure. So I national nutrition programs. The bill than 32 million people last year alone. look forward to getting this bill passed, that came out of the Appropriations I have been in the field to see the im- getting it through conference, and get- Committee rejects those devastating pact of this program for communities ting it to the Oval Office. cuts that were presented in the Presi- that rely on it in some of the hardest Thank you, Mr. President. dent’s budget request. hit parts of the world affected by con- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- This bill, which is within the sub- flict and climate chaos and corruption. ator from Maine. committee’s discretionary allocation This support is a considerable feature Ms. COLLINS. I suggest the absence of $23.2 billion, makes smart, targeted of what people around the world see in of a quorum. investments in programs that are im- terms of the United States reaching The PRESIDING OFFICER. The portant to the American people while out to assistant communities in need clerk will call the roll. keeping out controversial policy riders. worldwide. The assistant bill clerk proceeded to In this bill we maintain funding for im- Meanwhile, in 2017, the McGovern- call the roll. portant rural development programs Dole Program fed 4.5 million children, Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, I ask while building on the increases pro- and it helps to support education and unanimous consent that the order for vided last year for rural infrastructure food security for low-income countries, the quorum call be rescinded. initiatives, including rural water and as well as increasing school attend- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without waste programs and a broadband pilot ance. This program supports good objection, it is so ordered. program. These programs are vital in health and better education for chil- Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, I rise providing rural communities the abil- dren around the world, with a par- today to discuss the Financial Services ity to support entrepreneurs to be able ticular emphasis on girls. In the state and General Government appropria- to grow their businesses, creating of the world today, we need programs tions bill for 2019. As chairman of the much needed jobs in the community. like Food for Peace and McGovern- subcommittee, I have really enjoyed The bill protects vital research pro- Dole, which have a proven track working with the ranking member, grams and makes important new in- record. I am pleased that we have Senator COONS, and all of the members vestments for the organic industry. worked in a bipartisan to ensure that of the Appropriations Committee. The Organic Transitions Program is these programs are funded. However, for many Members of this funded at $6 million. The National Or- The bill in front of us supports the Chamber who are not on the Appropria- ganic Program is funded at $15 million. important work of the FDA, or the tions Committee, today will be their The Sustainable Agriculture Research Food and Drug Administration, first close look at an appropriations and Education Program is funded at $37 through a $159 million increase in the bill from our subcommittee. It has million. All of these are historic fund- agency’s funding. Included in that been months in process, with many ing levels that demonstrate the com- funding increase, among other things, oversight hearings, a lot of debate, a mitment to a vital and rapidly growing is full funding for the Oncology Center lot of amendments, a lot of back and industry. of Excellence, modernizing the generic forth with a tremendous amount of What else does this committee bill drug review process, investment and input from Members of this body, and do? innovation for rare diseases, and the it is finally actually on the floor. It supports funding for farm owner- continuation of last year’s work on It has been nearly 7 years since the ship and farm operating loans. With opioid prevention activities. I know, Financial Services and General Gov- farm incomes on the decline, access to and my fellow Senators understand, ernment appropriations bill has actu- credit is crucial for farmers to stay in just how important that opioid addic- ally been considered on the Senate business. Farm loans will serve the tion prevention program is. floor. In November of 2011, the Senate most disadvantaged in the farming sec- TRIBUTE TO JESSICA SCHULKEN began consideration of the combined tor, including farmers who are just Mr. President, before I conclude, I appropriations package for Energy and starting out, as well as ranchers, mi- wish to take a moment to recognize an Water, Financial Services, and State norities, women, and veterans. outstanding member of the Agriculture and Foreign Operations. Unfortu- I am also pleased that we were able Subcommittee team. nately, the floor consideration of that to include $150 million in funding for Jessica Schulken will be leaving us bill was halted shortly after it began, the Watershed and Flood Prevention in the next few weeks after almost 19 and Members were not able to offer Operations Program to protect our wa- years on the Appropriations Com- amendments or have their voices tersheds and help to prevent floods, re- mittee. Her accomplishments are nu- heard. We are looking forward to that duce erosion, and protect wildlife habi- merous. During her years on the com- changing today. tats. With a backlog of $850 million for mittee, she has been a tireless advocate This week’s debate will subject the projects that have already been author- for our Nation’s farmers and ranchers, Financial Services and General Gov- ized, this funding is much needed. a fierce protector for rural America, a ernment appropriations bill to public For domestic nutrition programs, our staunch advocate for ensuring that the scrutiny and an open amendment proc- bill maintains funding for the Summer Food and Drug Administration has all ess on the Senate floor for the first Electronic Benefit Transfer for Chil- the resources it needs, and a defender time since the subcommittee was es- dren Program, which provides access to of transparency who has worked hard tablished in 2007. It is too long in com- food for low-income children during to ensure that these agencies are an- ing. I applaud the leadership of Chair- the summer months when schools are swerable to Congress. man SHELBY and Ranking Member out of session. Beyond that, the bill I cannot begin to adequately express LEAHY, who were determined to see the provides for $30 million for school meal the tremendous work that she has done committee return to regular order. equipment grants, $18 million for the on this committee as clerk. I speak for A little bit of sunshine will help us in Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, many who know how sorely she will be this process. I am a firm believer that and $238 million for the Commodity missed. Here is a big thanks to Jessica openness and transparency result in a Supplemental Food Program. This bill Schulken for her years of service and better legislative product. It is my also protects SNAP, or the Supple- dedication, and I wish her well in her hope that today starts a trend where mental Nutrition Assistance Program, new chapter of life. the appropriations bills that are sel- which 42 million Americans rely on. It The process on this agriculture ap- dom seen outside the committee, such does not provide provisions that would propriations subcommittee bill has as the Financial Services and Interior eliminate benefits to those who qual- been emblematic of the type of good, appropriations bills, can be debated ify. strong bipartisan work that we would openly and amended on the Senate On the international front, the bill like to see much more often here in the floor. maintains strong funding for nutrition Senate—bipartisan work that has as- We have made a concerted effort to programs such as Food for Peace and sisted our ranchers, bipartisan work to make responsible decisions in allo- McGovern-Dole. Since its inception, assist our farming communities, bipar- cating resources and to be responsive

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.011 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5236 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 to the requests we have received from for Taxpayer Services and $4.86 billion LANKFORD of Oklahoma, in bringing Members of both sides of the aisle, and for Enforcement. our committee bill—the Financial we welcome continued input and pro- We have two critical goals for the Services and General Government ap- posed amendments from other Mem- IRS—improving taxpayers’ access to propriations bill—to the floor. bers. quality customer service and address- I thank the full committee chair and This Financial Services and General ing the tax gap, which is the amount the vice chairman, Senators SHELBY Government bill totals $23,688,000,000. owed but actually not paid. and LEAHY, for their leadership and It includes funding for a diverse group The IRS needs help in the customer their bipartisan work that has laid out of 27 different independent agencies. It service area. It has asked for additional the process we are now following to includes the Executive Office of the funding, and we have asked it for addi- make real progress on our appropria- President, the Department of the tional focus on customer service. We tions process. Treasury, the Federal Judiciary, and have given that this time. We have also I thank Chairman LANKFORD for the District of Columbia. The bill does asked the IRS to deal with the tax gap, working with me on this bill, and to not include any budget gimmicks or which are taxes owed that individuals my colleague Senator LANKFORD, of empty CHIMPS, or changes in manda- do not pay. This is not a change in tax Oklahoma, I express my appreciation tory program spending, which are often law; it is enforcing existing tax law. for his being a great partner, for our used as a gimmick by appropriations. Our current tax gap is right at $400 bil- positive experience in working to- It does not include those. lion a year. Addressing this tax gap is gether, and for how much I value our The bill provides targeted funding in- critical to reducing the deficit and re- collegial relationship. creases for the Treasury Department to storing our Nation’s fiscal health. I also thank the key staff of this sub- combat terrorism financing, for the The bill prioritizes the Federal Gov- committee—Andy Newton, Lauren Federal courts to support their admin- ernment’s response to the opioid crisis. Comeau, and Brian Daner—as well as istration of justice, and for the GSA’s Our bill keeps our Nation’s focus on my own staff—Ellen Murray, Diana Federal Buildings Fund, including the the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Hamilton, and Reeves Hart. These six acquisition of the headquarters build- Areas Program, with there being $280 folks are, I think, exemplars of the peo- ing for the Department of Transpor- million allocated, and on the Drug- ple who work here year in and year tation, rather than continuing to pay Free Communities Program, with there out, week in and week out and who $49.4 million in annual rental payments being $99 million allocated through the help make it possible for us to craft for a building that is their head- Office of National Drug Control Policy. large and complicated, bipartisan com- quarters. We will move back to actu- The bill provides a funding increase promise bills like this one. We are ally owning that building to save the to the U.S. Postal Service Inspector grateful for the positive working expe- rience they have had together and for taxpayers that money. General to address the growing concern This bill also fully funds GSA’s re- of narcotics trafficking through the the spirit with which they have worked quest for basic repairs and major re- mail system. We have to pay attention to make this bill possible. I am confident this bill fairly allo- pairs. Basic and major repairs are not to that. The bill includes $2 million in cates funding among many competing glamorous appropriations accounts, new funding for the Council of the In- priorities, given the subcommittee’s al- but they are exceptionally important spectors General on Integrity and Effi- location and its broad jurisdiction. to maintain and protect the taxpayers’ ciency for improvements to the website Senator LANKFORD and I have followed dollars. oversight.gov. If folks have not already the guidance of the full committee The bill also makes critical invest- gone to oversight.gov to see the work chair and vice chair and have kept this ments in our Nation’s financial mar- of our inspectors general, I would en- bill free of new controversial riders. kets, by providing targeted increases courage them to do that if they need Overall, this bill appropriates $23.688 for the Securities and Exchange Com- some additional help. Their work needs billion, which is a small increase over mission and the Commodity Futures to be highlighted, and we need to actu- that in the fiscal year 2018 omnibus bill Trading Commission. ally implement those recommenda- that was enacted earlier this year. After years of flat funding for the tions. I would like to take this opportunity CFTC, or the Commodity Futures IGs are on the frontlines of efforts to to briefly highlight how this bill will Trading Commission, including a $1 reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in the impact both Delawareans, whom I rep- million cut last year, this bill provides Federal Government, and their rec- resent, and Americans across our whole an increase to the CFTC in recognition ommendations produce billions of dol- country. of their critical role overseeing our lars in cost savings. We need to actu- The bill provides $250 million for the swaps, futures, and options markets. ally see those cost savings and imple- Community Development Financial In- Support for the CFTC was a priority ment them. Oversight.gov has im- stitutions Fund, which supports devel- for a number of Senators in this Cham- proved the accessibility and promi- opment in some of America’s poorest ber on both sides of the aisle, and I am nence of their work, and I am confident communities. The President’s budget pleased that we were able to accommo- this effort will produce even greater had recommended cutting this vital date it this year. savings in the future by maintaining a program down to just $14 million, The bill provides $11.26 billion to the database of open IG recommendations which would have completely elimi- Internal Revenue Service for the ad- at oversight.gov. nated any new grant funding, but I am ministration of our Nation’s tax laws. Again, I thank my friend Senator proud this bipartisan Senate bill re- Of this amount, $77 million is dedicated COONS and express my appreciation for stores all of the funding for this effec- to implementing the new Tax Cuts and the way he and his staff have worked tive and vital program. Jobs Act. That bill has been enor- with us this year. This bill rejects the transfer of two mously successful in helping to turn As this bill moves forward, I look for- vital anti-drug programs—the High In- around our economy, wherein our GDP ward to hearing from all of our col- tensity Drug Trafficking Areas Pro- growth has grown exponentially over leagues about how we can further ad- gram, known by its acronym HIDTA, the last year. Yet we have to fully im- dress their priorities through the and the Drug-Free Communities—from plement that bill, and the additional amendment process. We look forward the Office of National Drug Control $77 million is dedicated to that. to doing something historic—of actu- Policy to the Justice Department. Aside from tax reform, we are able to ally passing an FSGG bill on the floor I am grateful that at this time when provide an increase of $75 million in of the Senate and of working through opioids are a crisis of academic propor- base funding for the IRS. This increase this process in an open and transparent tions, which I hear about week in and to the Operations Support account over way. week out in my home State of Dela- the fiscal year 2018 enacted level will I yield the floor. ware, that we have rejected an ill-con- provide for investments in information The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ceived proposal to move these pro- technology infrastructure to reduce re- ator from Delaware. grams to other agencies, where I have liance on legacy systems. The total Mr. COONS. Mr. President, I am been concerned they would receive re- amount for the IRS includes $2.5 billion proud to join my colleague, Senator duced funding and scant attention. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.012 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5237 am pleased, instead, that they will stay Magnitsky Human Rights Account- The bill clerk proceeded to call the with the Office of National Drug Con- ability Act and that we are enforcing roll. trol Policy. sanctions in other places in the world— Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask This bill provides $281.5 million for Africa, for example—where we have unanimous consent that the order for the CFTC, the Commodity Futures longstanding sanctions that need more the quorum call be rescinded. Trading Commission. This is an in- thorough enforcement. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without crease of $32.5 million. It is critical the This bill provides funding for the objection, it is so ordered. CFTC is able to keep pace with the dra- Small Business Administration—a re- NOMINATION OF BRETT KAVANAUGH matic changes in the marketplace as it markably effective Federal agency Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, this regulates, particularly with the emer- that punches above its weight. This bill week, we will continue the confirma- gence of cryptocurrencies and complex rejects the President’s proposed cuts to tion process for Judge Brett financial products and international the SBA’s grant programs by either re- Kavanaugh, who, as we all know, has trading platforms. I think it is critical storing or increasing funding to vir- been nominated by President Trump to that the CFTC be able to modernize its tually every initiative within the SBA. serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. I say investments, as this is what it is re- These grants are essential to the we will continue the confirmation sponsible for. SBA’s mission of supporting small process because there has already been The Federal judiciary will receive businesses so local communities across a questionnaire issued by the Judiciary $7.251 billion in funding, an increase of our country have greater economic op- Committee to which the nominee has $140 million over the fiscal year 2018 portunity. I am particularly pleased, responded. I know White House Counsel enacted level. In particular, the de- within the suite of SBA-related serv- and others are already trying to put fender services and court security ac- ices, to support the SCORE Program, their heads together with the George counts, which I have long been atten- which has one of the highest ratios of W. Bush Presidential Library, down in tive to, will receive robust funding. volunteers and civic outreach and im- Dallas, as well as with the National Ar- This bill vitally increases funding for pact to Federal investment. Groups of chives, to be responsive to the docu- the basic operations of the Internal volunteers all over the country offer ment requests that have been made for Revenue Service. The IRS may not be business tools, workshops, and men- the judge. the most popular of Federal agencies, toring to dedicated entrepreneurs and As the author of more than 300 pub- but it touches almost every American small business owners. SCORE was ini- lished opinions, Judge Kavanaugh is a and is central to the legal and appro- tially founded in my home State of well-known judicial nominee. I think priate and efficient collection of rev- Delaware, in the city of Wilmington. his experience from the last 12 years on enue and for being responsive to con- So I have enjoyed working in a bipar- the DC Court of Appeals has clearly stituents and customers. This bill in- tisan way to reauthorize it during this demonstrated he has the experience creases funding for the basic operations Congress. that the job on the Supreme Court re- of the IRS, and it fully funds the re- This bill also includes a well-de- quires. quest for the cost of implementing the served pay adjustment for Federal ci- He is also enormously well respected comprehensive new tax law. vilian workers. Last year, Federal em- among the legal community. We have I hope we continue to work to in- ployees received a cost-of-living in- seen op-eds written by professors—all crease funding for this vital agency in crease of 1.9 percent. The cost of living of them scholars—who say that Judge conference because the IRS has IT sys- is growing at a faster rate than that. Kavanaugh can more than hold his own tems that are out of date, and cus- So, this year, the bill includes that when it comes to legal analysis. We tomer service can still improve. As the same level, which, I think, is an impor- have heard this from people who share chairman and I have both commented tant bipartisan compromise to ensure his judicial philosophy and those who in previous hearings, we need to con- that our civilian workforce receives do not share his judicial philosophy. tinue to make progress in closing the the support it has earned. They have a broad mutual respect for $400 billion tax gap—the gap between Lastly, we did include, last year, his intellect and his integrity. what is owed and what is collected in election security grants of about $380 We have heard about his mentorship tax revenues every year. million in the fiscal year 2018 omnibus of law clerks, both men and women, This bill includes $1.66 billion for the to help protect States and their voting liberals and conservatives. As I say, we Securities and Exchange Commission, systems from cyber attacks. The chair- have received testimonials from profes- the SEC. Given the number of publicly man is the cosponsor of an authorizing sionals across the ideological spec- traded firms that have an incorpora- bill that is critical we take up and trum. Last week, a group of 80 former tion footprint in my home State of move independent of the appropria- students from Harvard Law School, Delaware, I am particularly interested tions process. I also do think, this where Judge Kavanaugh taught, sent a in making sure the SEC has the re- year, we should have provided more for letter to the Senate Judiciary Com- sources it needs and is investing those appropriations to our States to make mittee. As you might imagine, they funds efficiently and effectively, as it sure they are strengthening their cyber have a variety of perspectives on judi- is the watchdog that helps to make security as we are just 4 months from cial philosophy and a wide range of po- sure our securities are being exchanged a general election. litical views, but they all agreed that in ways that are transparent and legal In closing, let me again thank the Judge Kavanaugh is a rigorous thinker, and appropriate. staff members of the subcommittee a devoted teacher, and a gracious per- There is a provision within the De- who worked so well together. son. partment of the Treasury that I want Let me thank Senator LANKFORD, my Lastly, we have heard from the nomi- to highlight briefly of $159 million colleague from Oklahoma, for his great nee himself. On the night President being appropriated specifically for the and positive attitude and for his deter- Trump announced his choice, Judge Office of Terrorism and Financial In- mination in making sure these dollars Kavanaugh said that he believes an telligence. It is an increase of $17 mil- are spent wisely. We may not agree on independent judiciary is the crown lion over last year, just over 10 per- everything, but we have been able to jewel of our constitutional Republic. cent. This office has the responsibility agree on this thing, which is signifi- He promised to keep an open mind in of enforcing economic sanctions across cant and historic progress, as the very every case, as a judge should, to uphold the globe. first ever floor markup of the FSGG the Constitution of the United States, It also has a very broad and very im- bill now begins. and to preserve the rule of law. Those portant responsibility, and it is key I yield the floor. words and the opinions from his many that we have been able to work on a bi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- supporters demonstrate that Judge partisan basis to ensure funding is ade- ator from Maine. Kavanaugh is the right person to re- quate not only to continue the imple- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I sug- place Justice Kennedy on the Supreme mentation of sanctions against North gest the absence of a quorum. Court. Most people agree that it is the Korea and Iran but also to make sure The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Supreme Court’s job to fairly interpret we are fully enforcing the Global clerk will call the roll. the law, not to substitute their own

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That is why I am A number of our colleagues across I look forward to working with all of glad that once our bill becomes law, a the aisle have been left grasping at our colleagues on the Judiciary Com- newer, stronger CFIUS process will straws given his outstanding qualifica- mittee to ensure that Judge better protect us from evolving, invest- tions and the fact that he was con- Kavanaugh has a full and fair hearing, ment-driven threats to our national se- firmed back in 2006 to the second most and not pull any punches whatsoever, curity. powerful court in the Nation, the DC but if the object is to delay for delay’s I yield the floor. Circuit Court of Appeals. sake or to criticize for criticism’s sake, I suggest the absence of a quorum. Judge Kavanaugh is a well-known we intend to call that out during this The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. nominee both to the Senate Judiciary process. CRUZ). The clerk will call the roll. The bill clerk proceeded to call the Committee and to the Senate itself, Based on what I have read and seen roll. but some have recently criticized so far, I believe Judge Kavanaugh will Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, I ask Judge Kavanaugh for expressing oppo- ultimately be confirmed. unanimous consent that the order for sition to the independent counsel stat- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN INVESTMENT IN THE the quorum call be rescinded. ute even though, once upon a time, UNITED STATES The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without they supported ending that very same Mr. President, there is one other objection, it is so ordered. statute themselves. There was bipar- item of business I want to mention, TABLE ROCK LAKE BOAT TRAGEDY tisan consensus to essentially let that and it is some very good news we re- Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, I am here statute lapse. So it is ironic that some ceived yesterday. The House and Sen- today to remember the 17 victims who are now using that as a point of criti- ate conferees announced an agreement lost their lives last week in the tragic cism. on the National Defense Authorization boat accident on Table Rock Lake in For example, in 1999, my colleague, Act, the NDAA. I am glad to hear that Missouri. the senior Senator from Illinois, called the final version included legislation I At one time, I lived in Branson. Our for getting rid of the statute, claiming sponsored called FIRRMA, the Foreign home is now in Springfield, MO. It is a that it allowed independent counsels to Investment Risk Review Modernization community that I represented in the be unchecked, unbridled, unrestrained, Act. The senior Senator from Cali- Congress for 14 years before having the and unaccountable. That just goes to fornia, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, was my bipar- chance to represent them in the Sen- show you—if you are in the Senate tisan cosponsor. ate. long enough, you are likely to find I thank Senator CRAPO, the chairman Of course, the community has re- yourself on both sides of an argument. of the Banking Committee, who ush- sponded. But one of the reasons the But in this case, there is no merit to ered this legislation through that com- community has responded in the way any criticism of Judge Kavanaugh for mittee, where it passed unanimously, that it has is the truly tragic loss of something that Democrats and Repub- and Senator INHOFE for leading the life. There were 31 people on the boat licans both agreed to do, which is to let conference here on the Senate side and that was overwhelmed by the water. Of the independent counsel statute lapse. seeing that this important piece of leg- those 31 people, 17 died. Of the 17 that Another weakness in their argument islation was included. died, 9 of the victims were members of is that there is a real difference be- In June, President Trump called on the Coleman family from Indianapolis, tween special counsels, such as Robert Congress to pass a strong piece of legis- IN. Mueller, and independent counsels lation to modernize what is known as Tia Coleman lost her husband, Glenn, under the old statute. They are not the the Committee on Foreign Investment and all three of their children. same thing. in the United States, or CFIUS. Now On Saturday, Tia asked that her fam- When Judge Kavanaugh spoke years we are going to do exactly that. The ily members be remembered as they ago about the independent counsel Senate version of the bill updates were. She said that her daughter, 1- statute, he was referring to a law that CFIUS so we can guard against at- year-old Arya, was a little fireball with Congress ultimately agreed in a bipar- tempts—primarily by China but not 1,000 different personalities. Her 7-year- tisan fashion to let expire and not only by China—to acquire sensitive old son, Evan, according to his mom, renew because it was felt that inde- dual-use technology and know-how by was a great brother who was extremely pendent counsels—particularly the last exploiting gaps in the U.S. rules on for- smart and witty and loved life. Her 9- independent counsel, Ken Starr—had eign investments. year-old son Reese, according to his too much autonomy to investigate and This legislation takes a carefully tai- mom, was the happiest little boy and prosecute any misconduct without lored approach to updating the review made every day worth living. Tia’s nephew, Donovan Hall, who was clear rules and guidance and without process without hamstringing our abil- the other surviving member of that clear oversight by Congress and the De- ity to meaningfully engage in trade family, lost his mother Angela and his partment of Justice. We know that spe- with partners around the world. It is brother Maxwell. Tia described her sis- cial counsels are different. They are not anti-foreign investment—just the ter-in-law Angela as a loving mother constrained by regulations and are opposite is true—but it is all about pro- who would do anything for her family, overseen by senior lawyers at the De- tecting our crown jewels when it comes and 2-year-old Max loved big hugs. partment of Justice, and in the case of to leading-edge technology that can be Tia was laughing through her tears Director Mueller, by the Deputy Attor- easily acquired through creative in- as she remembered her Uncle Ray as a ney General himself. It would be useful vestment strategies, and then, along man who liked to laugh and have a if our friends across the aisle would ac- with the intellectual property and good time. knowledge this difference and this his- know-how, our competitors, such as Tia’s father-in-law, Horace ‘‘Butch’’ tory. China, can gain tremendous advantage. Coleman, is being remembered in Indi- A new poll has shown that significant I appreciate the support we have got- anapolis as a legend in the community, majorities of voters in States such as ten from Secretary Mnuchin, our having volunteered for more than four North Dakota, West Virginia, and Indi- Treasury Secretary; Secretary Mattis, decades as a youth football coach. He ana all want to see Judge Kavanaugh the Secretary of Defense; and many and his wife, Belinda Coleman, were in- confirmed. Support is even stronger others. I again thank Senator FEIN- volved in the community. Belinda was among Independents. I expect that as STEIN for being the chief Democratic described as a loving mom, a loving more Americans get to know him in cosponsor. This has been a bipartisan grandmother, and as a leader in their the weeks ahead, those numbers will effort from day one. church. rise. The message is, we simply can’t let Tia asked that all of us keep the This nomination for a vacancy on the China erode our national security ad- Coleman family in our prayers as they Supreme Court is Chairman GRASS- vantage by circumventing our laws and adjust to this terrible tragedy.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.016 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5239 Rosemarie Hamann and William with the families and the survivors go to the bottom of the lake and find Asher, from the St. Louis area, had who were there, and certainly the com- the bodies that had been trapped in just celebrated Rosemarie’s 68th birth- munity, with services that reacted in this amphibious vehicle at the bottom day. Their friends say they loved to the right way. of one of the most beautiful lakes in dance and live life to the fullest. They It is unfortunate that we don’t think the world. both gave back to their community as much as we should about the NTSB We never want a tragedy like this to through local veterans organizations. and their efforts. One of the things strike in our State. I will tell my col- William and Janice Bright, from that certainly they will be looking at leagues that the only silver lining I can Higginsville, MO, were in Branson cele- is their investigation of a similar acci- find is that it happened in a part of our brating their 45th wedding anniversary. dent almost 20 years ago in Arkansas State where there is a great deal of They are survived by their 3 children on Lake Hamilton. The questions love. There is a lot of openness in and 16 grandchildren, with another would be, I think, Did the Coast Guard Branson, MO, for the travelers who grandchild on the way, who will never do what they were supposed to do? Did come through, for all the tourists who get a chance to see their grandparents. the operators do what they were sup- come to Branson. We are very proud of The Smith family of Osceola, AR, is posed to do? Did the equipment do that area of our State. The Ozarks mourning the loss of 53-year-old Steve what it was supposed to do? Certainly have some of the most beautiful ter- Smith, a retired educator, and his 15- we will be looking carefully at the re- rain God has created. These lakes that year-old son Lance. The Smiths were port to decide what needs to happen as we have, both in the central part of our very active in their church. Steve was a result of that report. Certainly this is State and in the southwest part of our a deacon and Lance felt the call to the an accident we wouldn’t want to see State, we are very proud of. They ministry at 15. He had just recently de- happen ever again. turned ugly and deadly last Thursday, livered his first sermon. Since its inception, the NTSB has in- and we have had a tremendous loss of Leslie Dennison from Illinois died a vestigated thousands of aviation and life. hero. This 64-year-old grandmother surface transportation accidents. They This investigation will take a year or pushed her 12-year-old granddaughter are busy right now investigating what more. I join my colleague in urging the to the surface of the water, helping happened in Branson, MO. Other exam- Senate to approve these two nominees save that girl’s life before she was over- ples are the Southwest Airlines engine that have been pending for too long. It whelmed by the water. incident in April, the autonomous vehi- is my understanding we have gotten Former church pastor Bob Williams, cle crash in Tempe, AZ, and the colli- movement on that today. It is sad that who was driving the boat, was remem- sion of the Amtrak train and the CSX it would take a tragedy like this to get bered by the Branson mayor, Karen freight train in South Carolina. That is this moving, but I believe that by the Best, as ‘‘a great ambassador for what they do. Its staff and leadership end of the day—I am at least opti- Branson’’ and an active member of the are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a mistic at this point; I don’t know what community. year. my colleague Senator BLUNT has Certainly in the coming days we will Unfortunately, we have had two learned, but I have learned that it ap- learn more about these men and nominees for the National Transpor- pears that these nominees will be ap- women and children and the lives they tation Safety Board who have been proved by the end of the day. led and the lives that were ended trag- pending for consideration for many There were incredibly difficult ically. We will also learn about the ac- months—one a Democrat, another a weather conditions, but there are in- cident itself. Republican. The confirmation of those herent dangers in these amphibious ve- Senator MCCASKILL and I were both two people would ensure that the hicles. We know this. How do we know there on the day after the accident as NTSB has a full board to fulfill its crit- this? Because it has been investigated Federal officials arrived—the Coast ical mission. before. We have had 40 deaths associ- Guard, responsible for certifying equip- I have been assured that we are going ated with duck boats since 1999, yet ment like the boat that sank, and the to move forward with those confirma- there has been little done to address National Travel Safety Board, which tions later today. I can also assure my the inherent danger of these amphib- has the responsibility to investigate colleagues that Senator MCCASKILL ious vehicles. We had 13 deaths in Ar- the accident and tell us what happened. and I and Congressman LONG will be kansas in Lake Hamilton in 1999, 4 Senator MCCASKILL met with them closely monitoring the investigation as deaths in the Ottawa River in Ontario, early in the day. I met with them ex- we learn what happened and do what Canada in 2002, 2 in the Delaware River actly 24 hours after the boat sank. we need to do to make sure it never in Philadelphia in 2010, and then the 17 As we were finished with that meet- happens again. deaths that occurred last week. Addi- ing and looking out at the placid Table So with gratitude to the first re- tionally, we had five deaths when a ve- Rock Lake, it was impossible to imag- sponders, the medical staff, and the hicle collided, when it had an on-land ine that was the same lake that was in members of the Branson community collision in Seattle in 2015. videos of what had happened the day who stepped forward to assist in this Back when the NTSB investigated before. tragedy, I close my remarks and turn the incident in Arkansas, which is Certainly Senator MCCASKILL and I to Senator MCCASKILL for whatever she about 200 miles south of Branson, they were also thinking of the first respond- may have to say about this event. found contributing factors to that acci- ers, the medical staff, looking at what The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- dent to be the lack of adequate buoy- mental health care was available not ator from Missouri. ancy that would have allowed the vehi- only for people who survived the acci- Mrs. MCCASKILL. Mr. President, I cle to remain afloat in a flooded condi- dent but also for the people who re- would like to thank my colleague. He tion, the lack of adequate oversight by sponded. and I were both in Branson last Friday. the Coast Guard, and, importantly, There were people who were on a We didn’t have a chance to see each also the canopy. When these vehicles nearby showboat, the Branson Belle, other, but we were both there for the are on water, the canopy serves as a who dove off the boat and immediately same reason; that is, an unspeakable trap if they take on water and are swam out to do what they could to help tragedy in our State that has Federal sinking. People who are trying to get the people who were trying to save involvement because the investigations out have no easy way to escape this their own lives. One boat dock sent will occur jointly with the Coast Guard sinking vehicle because the canopy three or four different boats with basi- and the NTSB. traps them within the vehicle. cally high school guys who are working I would echo many of the remarks It also is a problem in terms of wear- at that boat dock in the summer. I am that my colleague made. I particularly ing life jackets because if someone has sure if you are a 16, 17, 18-year-old was struck when I was there—the high- a life jacket on and one of these vehi- young man, you think everything is way patrol divers had just finished cles goes down in the water, they get OK, but we were both insistent that their work. They had the worst job trapped against the roof even more be- they try to have the kind of mental maybe in the country last Friday, but cause the buoyancy of the life jacket health counseling they needed, along certainly in Missouri. Their job was to holds them against the roof and makes

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.017 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 it even more difficult for them to get them if for any reason they were not The amendments are as follows: to some point of ingress or egress. capable swimmers. AMENDMENT NO. 3405 These are not open vehicles. When I am very proud of both NTSB and (Purpose: To increase the amount available they are in the water, it is almost like the Coast Guard, who were working for a Community Volunteer Income Tax an enclosed bus. It is almost like— well together when I was down there. Assistance matching grants program for imagine if you are on an airplane in Mayor Best was doing a terrific job. tax return preparation assistance) the water or on a bus in the matter. It The Red Cross was there in full display On page 154, line 14, strike ‘‘$15,000,000’’ and is not a boat; it is a vehicle. So the in terms of providing services. The peo- insert ‘‘$20,000,000’’. NTSB recommendations were pretty ple of Branson were in the midst of an AMENDMENT NO. 3422 straightforward. Unfortunately, noth- outpouring of love, affection, respect, (Purpose: To require the Inspector General ing happened as a result of those rec- and sympathy—and the entire State. to update an audit report concerning on- ommendations. Our Governor has done a good job. time performance of Amtrak) Frankly, it is the silly season for me. I am in the early stages of drafting In the matter under the heading ‘‘SALARIES legislation with input from the NTSB This is the time when there are rel- AND EXPENSES’’ under the heading ‘‘OFFICE and the Coast Guard to require that atively few weeks until an election, OF INSPECTOR GENERAL’’ under the heading the design issues with these passenger and the fur is flying, and the politics ‘‘NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORA- vessels be addressed and that the boats go back and forth. It was like an oasis TION’’ in title III oCf division D, in the fourth that are not compliant be taken out of on Friday in terms of everyone coming proviso, strike ‘‘Government.’’ and insert the together, setting their politics on the following: ‘‘Government: Provided further, service until they can be compliant. That not later than 240 days after the date of We think that their past recommenda- side of the road, and trying to work to- gether to find answers to these difficult enactment of this Act, the Inspector General tions are reasonable and common questions and come together as we shall update the report entitled ‘Effects of sense. We really think the biggest Amtrak’s Poor On-Time Performance’, num- should and find a way to protect the problem that has to be addressed is bered CR-2008-047, and dated March 28, 2008, traveling public and the people. this reserve buoyancy that has been and make the updated report publicly avail- The saddest thing about this is the able.’’. pointed out in the past as part of the people who went on this vehicle went significant problem. If they can’t do because they were there having a great f the buoyancy on a really timely basis, time. That is probably a cruel irony of RECESS at a minimum, remove the canopies if this situation. They weren’t taking a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under they are going on the water so there is bus on the way to work. They weren’t the previous order, the Senate stands an opportunity for people to escape taking a plane on a business trip. They in recess until 2:15 p.m. what is a sinking coffin, which it was; were enjoying a beautiful location with Thereupon, the Senate, at 12:35 p.m., it was a sinking coffin for way too their family in the middle of what recessed until 2:15 p.m. and reassem- many people last Thursday. should have been a carefree moment, bled when called to order by the Pre- As always, I want this to be done in and it turned deadly and tragic. We do siding Officer (Mr. PERDUE). a way that makes sense, but I don’t need to come together and try to make think it makes sense for us to wait an- sure this doesn’t happen in the future. f other year to address some of these With a respectful nod to all the first INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, FINAN- glaring issues in terms of passenger responders and the people of the CIAL SERVICES, AND GENERAL safety. Branson community who have been so GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS I also would like to take a moment supportive, I yield the floor. ACT, 2019—Continued to recognize the victims in this trag- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- edy. We had five victims who were from ator from Maine. ator from Nevada. Missouri: William Asher, 69, and Rose Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, before Marie Hamann, 68, who both lived in the two Senators from Missouri leave AMENDMENT NO. 3405 St. Louis; Janice Bright and her hus- the floor, let me express my personal Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise band, William Bright, 63 and 65, from condolences to them, which I know are today in support of my amendment, Higginsville, MO, closer to Kansas shared by each and every Member of Heller-Brown amendment No. 3405. City; Bob Williams, the driver, not the this body. The tragedy in Missouri is This bipartisan amendment increases captain of the vessel, 73 years old, who absolutely heartbreaking for the fami- funding for the Volunteer Income Tax lived in Branson. lies, for the community, and for the Assistance Program, better known as From Arkansas, Steve Smith was 53, State, and I want our two colleagues VITA, by $5 million for the next fiscal and Lance Smith was 15 years old. from Missouri to know that we stand year. From Illinois, Leslie Dennison was 64 with them during this very difficult Building upon the success of the Tax years old. time. Cuts and Jobs Act, it is important that Maybe the most heartbreaking, in AMENDMENTS NOS. 3405 AND 3422 TO AMENDMENT we take additional steps to ensure that some ways, was the large family who NO. 3399 Nevada families are fully able to real- lost so many members as a result of Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I ask ize the benefits of the new tax laws and this vehicle sinking in the Table Rock unanimous consent that the following maximize their returns. The VITA Pro- Lake: Angela, 45; Belinda, 69; Ervin, 76; amendments be called up en bloc: Hell- gram is one way to do that. Glenn, 40; Horace, 70; and then the er amendment No. 3405 and Durbin The VITA Program offers free tax Coleman children, including Reece, amendment No. 3422. I further ask con- help to lower income and middle-in- who was 9; Evan, who was 7; Maxwell, sent that at 2:15 p.m. today, there be 5 come taxpayers—those who often need who was 2; and Arya, who was only 1 minutes of debate, equally divided in it the most—by helping them to pre- year old. the usual form, and that following the pare and file their income tax returns. We mourn their deaths. I do think use or yielding back of that time, the Every year, VITA programs help tens this is a situation where you do feel Senate vote in relation to the Heller of thousands of Nevadans and millions helpless. On the other hand, I do think and Durbin amendments in the order of taxpayers nationwide keep more of there are steps we can take so that listed and that there be no second-de- their hard-earned money. As a sta- these particular amphibious vehicles gree amendments in order to the tistic, in 2015, VITA sites helped nearly are addressed in terms of passenger amendments prior to the votes. 23,000 Nevadans file their returns and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there safety so that there is never again a processed refunds that exceeded $25 objection? feeling of helplessness when one of Without objection, it is so ordered. million. these boats finds itself in a situation The clerk will report the amend- That is why I urge all of my col- where it is taking on water but the ments by number. leagues to join me and Senator BROWN people in the vehicle cannot get out of The bill clerk read as follows: in supporting hard-working American the vehicle in order to save themselves The Senator from Maine [Ms. COLLINS], for taxpayers and voting yes on this bipar- and can’t even avail themselves of life others, proposes amendments numbered 3405 tisan amendment, Heller-Brown preservers in a way that would protect and 3422 en bloc to amendment No. 3399. amendment No. 3405.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.018 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5241 I yield the remainder of my time to Ten years ago, the IG report found The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a the Senator from Ohio. that the delays were the result of host sufficient second? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- railroad dispatching practices, track There appears to be a sufficient sec- ator from Ohio. maintenance, speed restrictions, insuf- ond. Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, this is a ficient track capacity, and, often, ex- The clerk will call the roll. big deal for Americans making $15,000, ternal factors beyond the host rail- The assistant bill clerk called the $20,000, $30,000, or $40,000 a year. They road’s control. roll. will get a refundable tax credit if they The information that the Amtrak IG Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator claim it—if they can figure out how to will collect in this report will be used is necessarily absent: the Senator from claim it, because it is sometimes too to identify ways to improve coordina- Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). complicated. They can get $2,000, $3,000 tion between Amtrak and the freight The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. $4,000, or sometimes a little more than railroads. HOEVEN). Are there any other Senators that, in the refundable tax credit. That I commend the authors for their in the Chamber desiring to vote? is money in their pockets to buy school amendment, and I urge my colleagues The result was announced—yeas 99, clothes. It is money in their pockets to to support it. nays 0, as follows: fix a car that is broken down. It is VOTE ON AMENDMENT NO. 3405 [Rollcall Vote No. 165 Leg.] money in their pockets so they can The PRESIDING OFFICER. The YEAS—99 take their kids to a restaurant occa- question now occurs on agreeing to the Alexander Gardner Murray sionally. Heller amendment No. 3405. Baldwin Gillibrand Nelson Filing taxes is complicated for every- Barrasso Graham Paul one. It can be particularly challenging Ms. COLLINS. I ask for the yeas and Bennet Grassley Perdue nays. Blumenthal Harris Peters for those claiming the EITC. Wall Blunt Hassan Portman Street CEO’s and big companies have The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? Booker Hatch Reed armies of accountants. This is for Boozman Heinrich Risch working-class families making $20,000, There appears to be a sufficient sec- Brown Heitkamp Roberts $30,000, or $40,000 a year. ond. Burr Heller Rounds The clerk will call the roll. Cantwell Hirono Rubio I thank Senator HELLER. I ask sup- Capito Hoeven Sanders port for the Heller-Brown amendment. The senior assistant legislative clerk Cardin Hyde-Smith Sasse It will matter to so many working fam- called the roll. Carper Inhofe Schatz ilies in Mansfield, Toledo, Sandusky, Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator Casey Isakson Schumer is necessarily absent: the Senator from Cassidy Johnson Scott and all over Ohio. Collins Jones Shaheen I yield the floor. Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). Coons Kaine Shelby The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there Corker Kennedy Smith ator from Illinois. any other Senators in the Chamber de- Cornyn King Stabenow Cortez Masto Klobuchar Sullivan AMENDMENT NO. 3422 siring to vote? Cotton Lankford Tester Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, Senator The result was announced—yeas 98, Crapo Leahy Thune WICKER of Mississippi and I have a bi- nays 1, as follows: Cruz Lee Tillis Daines Manchin Toomey partisan amendment that means a lot [Rollcall Vote No. 164 Leg.] Donnelly Markey Udall to thousands of people who use Am- YEAS—98 Duckworth McCaskill Van Hollen trak. It has been 10 years since we Alexander Gardner Murray Durbin McConnell Warner Enzi Menendez Warren asked the inspector general of Amtrak Baldwin Gillibrand Nelson Ernst Merkley Whitehouse Barrasso Graham Perdue to do a study of on-time performance. Feinstein Moran Wicker Bennet Grassley Peters On-time performance has a direct im- Fischer Murkowski Wyden Blumenthal Harris Portman Flake Murphy Young pact on the number of people who ride Blunt Hassan Reed on Amtrak trains, how frequently they Booker Hatch Risch NOT VOTING— 1 use them, and how much they rely Boozman Heinrich Roberts Brown Heitkamp McCain upon them. There is a problem. Am- Rounds Burr Heller Rubio The amendment (No. 3422) was agreed trak owns very few railway tracks in Cantwell Hirono Sanders Capito Hoeven to. America. They share the tracks with Sasse Cardin Hyde-Smith The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Schatz freight trains, and the freight trains Carper Inhofe Schumer ator from Utah. have been pushing ahead of them and Casey Isakson Scott NOMINATION OF BRETT KAVANAUGH Cassidy Johnson making the Amtrak trains wait. Shaheen How long did they wait? Between 2016 Collins Jones Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I rise Coons Kaine Shelby and 2017, in 1 year, there was 17,000 Smith today to speak on the latest efforts to Corker Kennedy derail the nomination of Judge Brett hours of delay on Amtrak trains di- Cornyn King Stabenow rectly attributable to freight trains Cortez Masto Klobuchar Sullivan Kavanaugh to be Associate Justice of Tester that didn’t yield the way to the Am- Cotton Lankford the U.S. Supreme Court. I would like Crapo Leahy Thune to focus today on a few areas where at- trak trains. That is just one factor. Cruz Lee Tillis Senator WICKER and I have asked the Daines Manchin Toomey tacks have come up. inspector general to do a report on on- Donnelly Markey Udall Judge Kavanaugh’s critics, faced time performance that we can consider Duckworth McCaskill Van Hollen with an exceptionally well-qualified, Durbin McConnell Warner baseball-loving, carpool-driving nomi- in making Amtrak more efficient, Enzi Menendez Warren more profitable, and more popular with Ernst Merkley Whitehouse nee, are struggling to find anything Americans. Feinstein Moran Wicker that might slow or even stop his con- I hope our colleagues will support our Fischer Murkowski Wyden firmation. Let me focus today on a few Flake Murphy Young bipartisan amendment. areas where their attacks have come The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- NAYS—1 up short. ator from Maine. Paul It seems that some folks can’t men- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise in NOT VOTING—1 tion Judge Kavanaugh without sug- support of Senator DURBIN and Senator gesting in the same breath that his McCain WICKER’s amendment. It would direct confirmation would somehow be the the Amtrak inspector general to up- The amendment (No. 3405) was agreed death knell of Special Counsel date a report from 10 years ago that ex- to. Mueller’s investigation. It can be dif- amined Amtrak’s on-time performance. VOTE ON AMENDMENT NO. 3422 ficult to keep straight critics’ dizzying Some Amtrak routes, particularly The PRESIDING OFFICER. The array of claims on these separation of along Amtrak’s national network, are question now occurs on agreeing to the powers issues, but it is worth taking a experiencing frequent delays, which Durbin amendment No. 3422. closer look to set the record straight. makes train travel a less dependable Mr. WICKER. I ask for the yeas and It was hard to miss the headline, option and discourages ridership. nays. ‘‘Brett Kavanaugh Once Argued That a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.023 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Sitting President Is Above the Law,’’ ly decided—ignores the context of his time on what is arguably our Na- or the article that suggested Judge those specific remarks and the moun- tion’s second highest Court. If Demo- Kavanaugh ‘‘has been an open advocate tain of evidence that Judge Kavanaugh crats actually took the time to follow for precisely the sort of imperial presi- agrees with the Court’s ruling in Judge Kavanaugh’s advice and read his dency that the founders of the Amer- Nixon. opinions—not just articles about them ican experiment feared.’’ There is the law review article in or summaries prepared by staff—they Democrats soon piled on, but never which Judge Kavanaugh wrote that might be disappointed to learn that in the law review article that spurred there was ‘‘no need to revisit’’ Nixon there is nothing to suggest that people this hysteria did Judge Kavanaugh sug- and that the case ‘‘reflects the proper will die if he is confirmed, and they gest that a President would be immune balance of the President’s need for con- might actually learn how Judge from civil or criminal liability. Rather, fidentiality and the government’s in- Kavanaugh interprets the Constitution he suggested that, as a policy matter, terest in obtaining all relevant evi- and the laws passed by Congress. Isn’t it might be wise for Congress to enact dence for criminal proceedings.’’ that what all of this commotion is a law that would defer such litigation More recently, he has cited Nixon as about? It is about documents. Isn’t until the President leaves office, and, one of ‘‘the greatest moments in Amer- that really what it is about? of course, Congress could accelerate ican judicial history . . . when judges I suggest Judge Kavanaugh’s opin- that timeline through impeachment. stood up to the other branches, were ions should be more than enough to as- Judge Kavanaugh’s law review arti- not cowed, and enforced the law.’’ sess his qualifications and judicial cle represents an interesting policy Those sure don’t sound like the temperament, not to mention the thou- proposal—and one, it is worth noting, words of a judge who is critical of the sands of pages from his time in the ex- that he offered while a Democrat was Court’s decision in Nixon, much less a ecutive branch that are already pub- in the White House. The critics’ at- judge who would vote to overrule it, licly available. I understand this rep- tempts to equate his policy rec- but this more fulsome look at Judge resents just a fraction of the docu- ommendations with his views on the Kavanaugh’s writings on the issue is at ments the Senate will ultimately re- constitutional limitations on prosecu- odds with the Democrats’ campaign to ceive—likely to be far more than those tions of sitting Presidents are simply paint Judge Kavanaugh as an existen- received for any other Supreme Court wrong. If anything, Judge Kavanaugh’s tial threat to the Mueller investiga- nominee in history. recommendation that Congress enact a tion. So they are content to cherry- Senator GRASSLEY has pledged that law suggests that in the absence of any pick and mischaracterize Judge relevant records will be made available such legislation, a sitting President Kavanaugh’s record. through a fair and thorough process, can be investigated and perhaps even On the subject of Judge Kavanaugh’s but, for some, it is never enough. We prosecuted. record, I would also like to talk about have heard Democrats claim they are Then there was the hoopla over the Democrats’ fixation on the issue of not demanding every scrap of paper Judge Kavanaugh’s statement that he Judge Kavanaugh’s documents from his that crosses Judge Kavanaugh’s White would ‘‘put the final nail’’ in the ruling years of service in the executive House desk, but they have also said the that upheld the constitutionality of branch. It has only been 2 weeks since standard for determining what is rel- independent counsels; never mind the President Trump nominated Judge evant and subject to production should fact that the independent counsel stat- Kavanaugh, and yet Democrats seem be whatever Senators—in other words, ute expired nearly two decades ago and more interested in using their time Democrats—think is relevant. Some was described by Eric Holder as ‘‘too talking about documents they do not have even claimed that all the docu- flawed to be renewed.’’ yet have rather than carefully review- ments are ‘‘extremely relevant.’’ Today, special counsels, such as Rob- ing the unprecedented number of docu- Well, if Democrats think the stand- ert Mueller, are appointed pursuant to ments that are already available to the ard for document production should be Department of Justice regulations. Senate and the American public. Spe- whatever Senators think is relevant— They do not represent the same con- cifically, we aren’t hearing much from and they think everything is relevant— stitutional concerns as the independent Democrats about the more than 300 then it sure sounds like they are ask- counsel statute. By conflating inde- opinions Judge Kavanaugh has au- ing for every scrap of paper. pendent counsels and special counsels, thored during his time on the Circuit Now, it is true that Republicans Judge Kavanaugh’s critics ignore his Court of Appeals for the District of Co- sought White House documents for Jus- own record on the matter. lumbia. In these opinions, Judge tice Kagan’s nomination, but these two In a dissenting opinion he wrote last Kavanaugh has addressed a vast array nominations—Kagan and Kavanaugh— year, Judge Kavanaugh himself ob- of hot-button issues Democrats claim are hardly comparable. At the time of served: ‘‘The independent counsel is, of to be so interested in: separation of her nomination, Justice Kagan had no course, distinct from the traditional powers, administrative law, national judicial record to speak of whatsoever, special counsels who are appointed by security, religious liberty, immigra- having never served as a judge at any the Attorney General for particular tion, and so many more. level. She had no written opinions. matters.’’ But Democrats just figure Something Judge Kavanaugh told me There was almost nothing we could use that the average American will gloss when I met with him recently really to assess her judicial philosophy. over the distinction between inde- stuck with me. He told me, he hoped The White House record was among pendent counsels and special counsels people would actually read his opin- the very limited information we had to and tune out legal experts who say that ions, not just articles about his opin- gauge her fitness to serve, so, of Judge Kavanaugh’s views on the inde- ions but actually read the opinions course, we asked to see it. By contrast, pendent counsel law have absolutely themselves. So I would urge my Senate Judge Kavanaugh has 12 years of expe- nothing to do with the Mueller inves- colleagues to indulge Judge Kavanaugh rience on the Circuit Court of Appeals tigation. By the time we are on to on this point. These opinions are gold for the District of Columbia, the sec- them, Democrats will have already for any Senator making an honest ef- ond highest Court in this country, and moved on to a new line of attack. fort to evaluate Judge Kavanaugh’s ju- that is not even to mention over 300 The latest was the minority leader’s dicial philosophy. opinions. suggestion that Judge Kavanaugh Judge Kavanaugh has spent the past Again, thousands of pages have been ‘‘would have let Nixon off the hook’’ 12 years in public service and as a Fed- written clearly outlining Judge based on comments Judge Kavanaugh eral appellate judge. Now, he has been Kavanaugh’s views on the Constitu- once made about the Supreme Court’s nominated to be—you guessed it—a tion. If Judge Kavanaugh’s extensive unanimous decision in the United Federal appellate judge. I can think of record is not enough to paint a clear States v. Nixon. They forced President no better evidence of Judge picture of judicial philosophy, then Nixon to turn over the Watergate Kavanaugh’s judicial philosophy or his what is? What more do Democrats need tapes, but those comments—read by qualifications to serve on our Nation’s to know that this is a man who is emi- some who would suggest that Judge highest Court than the thousands of nently qualified to serve on our Na- Kavanaugh thinks the case was wrong- pages and opinions he authored during tion’s highest Court?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.027 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5243 I can only think of one reason a Sen- they would need to seek refuge in an when industrious and resilient people ator would need every scrap of paper to unknown territory to live in safety and stand together as one to build a bright- evaluate the qualifications of a judicial practice their religion free from hos- er future. Their determination and in- nominee—any nominee, for that mat- tility and abuse. genuity encourages our own pioneer ter—that is, if they are going on a In search of such a haven, the Mor- spirit, calling on us to strive toward never-ending fishing expedition, which mon pioneers fled Illinois in the winter further progress and innovation. Their is clearly what the Democrats have of 1846 and proceeded westward on a example of courage empowers us to tri- been doing since the day Judge journey that would cover more than umph over adversity and inspires us to Kavanaugh’s nomination was an- 1,300 miles of wilderness, across arid press forward with unconquerable faith nounced. deserts, jagged mountains, and turbu- and undaunted hope. I urge my colleagues to follow Judge lent rivers. On Pioneer Day this July 24, I hope Kavanaugh’s advice. Read his opinions. Along the way, the Mormon pioneers we not only remember these remark- You undoubtedly will learn something erected bridges, built ferries, and able pioneers but reflect on what we about how Judge Kavanaugh interprets cleared trails to assist those who would can do to follow in their footsteps and the Constitution and the laws passed follow their path. They established ensure their legacy lives on in us and by Congress. Then, by all means, con- communities, planted crops, and ex- in future generations. tinue your fishing expedition, but at panded trade posts that provided the I am proud to be a descendant of least you will have consulted the crucial supplies necessary to survive these pioneers. My family was part of record that matters the most. expeditions onward. They learned how the pioneers. Yes, I was born in Pitts- All I can say is, this man has an ex- to irrigate and make the desert blos- burgh, but I couldn’t wait to move to cellent record. There are plenty of som as a rose, and their irrigation prin- Utah. I love Pittsburgh, but I love Utah things to look at. The more you look ciples have been followed all over the more. I have to say, part of that is be- at them, the more you realize this fel- world. cause of my pioneer heritage and my low does really belong on the Supreme They set up trail markers and desire to see that Utah continually im- Court, and he will make a difference in charted maps that guided thousands of proves itself and continually makes its the future. settlers westward. The United States case on how important these pioneers PIONEER DAY certainly owes a debt of gratitude to really were and are to us even today. Mr. President, on another matter, I those pioneers for their contributions I yield the floor. wish to speak today in celebration of to our Nation’s settlement of the West. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Pioneer Day, a holiday my home State Their service to our country did not ator from South Dakota. of Utah observes each July 24 to com- come without significant personal cost. NOMINATION OF BRETT KAVANAUGH memorate the arrival of the Mormon Throughout the arduous trek, the pio- Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, a lot of pioneers to the Great Salt Lake Valley. neers battled harsh climates, illness, praise has flowed in for Judge On this special day, Utah and commu- hunger, and exhaustion. Many lost Kavanaugh since his nomination, but I nities in other States remember the ex- their children, spouses, parents, and think the tribute that has struck me traordinary history of the Mormon pio- friends to exposure, disease, and star- the most is the letter from his law neers who endured tremendous hard- vation. Yet they confronted crippling clerks. These individuals have worked ship in search of religious freedom in sorrow and hardship with incredible closely with Judge Kavanaugh and this great country that is set up for re- grace and a steadfast trust in their have a special insight into his tempera- ligious freedom, but they were mis- Heavenly Father. They expressed grati- ment and philosophy. Here is what treated and fought against from day tude for the strength to surmount each they have to say: one. challenge and gloried in life’s daily It is in his role as a judge on the D.C. Cir- In honor of Pioneer Day, I submitted miracles. What could have broken their cuit that we know Judge Kavanaugh best. a Senate resolution recognizing the spirit only fortified their convictions During his time on the D.C. Circuit, Judge sacrifices of the Mormon pioneers in and drew them closer to the Divine. Kavanaugh has come to work every day dedi- their pursuit of religious liberty and Upon entering Utah’s Great Salt cated to engaging in the hard work of judg- their invaluable contributions to the Lake Valley on July 24, 1847, their new ing. We never once saw him take a shortcut, settlement of the American West. I leader, Brigham Young announced: treat a case as unimportant, or search for an hope the Senate will join me in com- ‘‘This is the right place.’’ This pro- easy answer. Instead, in each case, large or mending the pioneers for their example phetic declaration foretold how the small, he masters every detail, and rereads of courage, industry, and faith that valley would become home to many every precedent. He listens carefully to the continues to inspire people throughout Latter-day Saints and their posterity. views of his colleagues and clerks, even—in- the world. Unfamiliar with the area and with deed, especially—when they differ from his In the years following the establish- few resources at their disposal, the pio- own. He drafts opinions painstakingly, writ- ment of the Church of Jesus Christ of neers worked together to plant their ing and rewriting until he is satisfied each Latter-day Saints in 1830, the Latter- crops, irrigate fields, and build houses opinion is clear and well-reasoned, and can be understood not only by lawyers but by the day Saints—or Mormons as they are and businesses, thus transforming the parties and the public. more commonly known—encountered barren desert into a thriving set of We saw time and time again that this work much religious persecution in this communities. ethic flows from a fundamental humility. freest of all lands. They suffered phys- Two years later, on July 24, the Lat- Judge Kavanaugh never assumes he knows ical assault, threats of violence, death, ter-day Saints first commemorated the answers in advance and never takes for in some cases, and war, prison, rape, their arrival to their new home with a granted that his view of the law will prevail. and murder. Violent mobs damaged procession to Salt Lake City’s Temple Those are the words of 34 of Judge their houses and businesses, stole their Square for a special devotional fol- Kavanaugh’s law clerks. Every one of property, and drove them from their lowed by a feast of thanksgiving. Judge Kavanaugh’s clerks who was not homes. Especially devastating was the Today, Pioneer Day is one of the larg- prohibited by his or her job signed this martyrdom of their leader and beloved est regional celebrations in the United letter. prophet, Joseph Smith, who was shot States, where we remember the early These clerks represent a diverse and killed with his brother as well, by settlers with parades, flag ceremonies, group. They wrote: an armed mob. reenactments, devotionals, sporting Our views on politics, on many of the im- Despite the discrimination and abuse events, feasts, dances, concerts, fes- portant legal issues faced by the Supreme they endured—sometimes at the hands tivals, rodeos, and fireworks. Court, and on judicial philosophy, are di- of government officials who should The rich heritage of the pioneers is verse. Our ranks include Republicans, Demo- have protected them from violence and shared not only by Utahns and those of crats, and Independents. But we are united in this: Our admiration and fondness for injustice—the Latter-day Saints re- the Mormon faith but with people Judge Kavanaugh run deep. For each of us mained a patriotic people who loved throughout the world, regardless of re- . . . it was a tremendous stroke of luck to and revered the Constitution of the ligious affiliation. These pioneers dem- work for and be mentored by a person of his United States. Still, they recognized onstrated what can be accomplished strength of character, generosity of spirit,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.029 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 intellectual capacity, and unwavering care with a roadmap, a GPS, a flashlight, our upcoming election, and fully imple- for his family, friends, colleagues, and us, his and a program. It is impossible to un- ment last year’s Russian sanctions law clerks. derstand the policy of this administra- bill? I can’t answer that. I don’t think This letter is a pretty significant tion for this country, and when you try the Republican leader can answer it ei- tribute, and it confirms what has been to follow his actions instead of his ther. Those are national security prior- clear from the beginning, and that is words, it is even more confusing. ities. that Judge Kavanaugh is the type of Over the past few weeks, President Maybe it isn’t surprising because judge who should sit on the Nation’s Trump’s conduct when it comes to for- when Senator MCCONNELL was told highest Court. His clerks describe a eign policy has been head-spinning, about the Russian intervention in our judge who takes the weight of his re- even for him. To recap, he insulted our last 2016 election by the top intel- sponsibility seriously; a judge who is best allies of 70 years and then turned ligence officials of the U.S. Govern- committed to reaching the right deci- around and lobbied for Russia at a re- ment and asked to make a bipartisan sion in every case and who does the cent G7 meeting and again bullied our statement condemning it, he declined. hard work necessary to get to that de- key allies at a summit on NATO. He Why would a congressional leader not cision; a judge who approaches each then met privately with Russian Presi- want to join in a bipartisan effort to case with an open mind, looking for dent Putin and then held a press con- warn a foreign power to stop its attack what the law says, not the outcome he ference with him in which President on democracy? Why the silence on this wants. Trump blamed America and defended floor, on that side of the aisle, since As Chief Justice John Roberts fa- Putin’s words over the expertise of his the Helsinki summit conference? mously said, ‘‘Judges are like um- own government intelligence agencies. There is not absolute silence. I will pires.’’ Their job is to call the balls and Keep in mind that he also inexplicably commend my ailing but respected and strikes, not rewrite the rules of the met privately with President Putin at often-quoted colleague JOHN MCCAIN in game. As Justice Roberts said, ‘‘Um- the G20 summit in Hamburg last year— Arizona, who sends messages from his pires don’t make the rules; they apply an event which he initially denied. home to this Chamber, to the U.S. Sen- them.’’ It is essential that a judge un- Why all these private meetings be- ate. What did he call the Helsinki sum- derstand this. If you are a judge, your tween President Trump and President mit? ‘‘[O]ne of the most disgraceful job is to rule based on the law and the Putin? Why wouldn’t he let his Sec- performances by an American presi- Constitution and nothing else. Your retary of State sit in the room? Why dent in memory.’’ JOHN MCCAIN has job is not to make policy. It is not to wouldn’t he let his National Security never been one to mince words. I have revise the law according to your per- Advisor witness the conversation? I to say that quote hit the nail on the sonal feelings or your political prin- don’t know the answer to these ques- head. ciples. Your job is to figure out what tions, and neither does America. I want to put another word in here. the law says and to rule accordingly. Then the President tried to back- Every time I hear politicians and all Why is this so important? Well, it is pedal from some of his most out- the smartest people on Earth on tele- because the rule of law and equal jus- rageous statements. At the end of the vision referring to what happened in tice under the law only exist as long as day, after trying that and deciding it the 2016 election as the Russians med- judges rule based on the law. Once wasn’t worth the effort, he backed dling in our election—you heard that judges start ruling based on their polit- around again and decided to side with term, ‘‘meddling’’ in our election? If a ical opinions or their feelings about President Putin. It is impossible to seasoned criminal broke into your what they would like the law to be, keep track of where this President has home to case it for a later burglary, then we will have replaced the rule of been or is going. would you say that burglar was just law with the rule of individual judges. President Trump then questioned the meddling? No. ‘‘Breaking and enter- As the testimony of his clerks and bedrock NATO alliance, asking why ing’’ might be the proper term. That is many others makes clear, Judge the United States should come to the what happened with the Russians in Kavanaugh understands the role of a defense of one of its members. Inciden- the 2016 U.S. election. They broke and judge. He understands that his job is to tally, that is the heart and soul of the entered our election system across the interpret the law, not make the law; to NATO alliance—article 5: We stand to- United States. rule based on the plain text of the stat- gether. When the United States was at- The reason I know that, one of the ute, not his personal opinions or polit- tacked on 9/11, it was the NATO alli- targets happened to be my home State ical beliefs. ance that stood with us when we struck of Illinois. They found a way to sneak In a 2017 speech at Notre Dame Law back at Afghanistan and al-Qaida. into the computers of the Illinois State School, Judge Kavanaugh said: They stood by us because of article 5, Board of Elections and, according to I believe very deeply in those visions of the the very basis of the NATO alliance, the Special Counsel’s recent indict- rule of law as a law of rules, and of the judge which this President has questioned. ment, stole information related to ap- as umpire. By that, I mean a neutral, impar- He said that no U.S. President has proximately one-half million voters in tial judiciary that decides cases based on set- been harder on Russia than President my State of Illinois. The State discov- tled principles without regard to policy pref- Trump. He argued: ‘‘I think President ered it and sent out warnings to voters erences or political allegiances or which Putin knows that better than any- whose registration data may have been party is on which side of a particular case. body.’’ Then he said he wanted to in- accessed. I will say it again: That is the kind of vite President Putin to the United Was that meddling? Not in Illinois. Justice we want on the Supreme Court. States as his special personal guest. Go Those were fighting words. That was a I hope this Senate will take very seri- figure. cyber attack by the Russians on the ously the responsibility we have to As President Trump weakens a great State of Illinois Board of Elections, give fair consideration to this nominee. military alliance like NATO, bullies and they followed up by trying to hit 20 Mr. President, I yield the floor. our allies of seven decades, cozies up to other States as well. I suggest the absence of a quorum. a foreign dictator, and talks in circles Meddling? Give me a break. This is a The PRESIDING OFFICER. The about his bizarre tweets and actions, cyber act of war by the Russians, and clerk will call the roll. what has been the priority of the Re- our intelligence officials of the Trump The bill clerk proceeded to call the publican Party on the floor of the Sen- administration—like Dan Coats, the roll. ate since the summit—the disastrous Director of National Intelligence—have Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask summit—at Helsinki? Well, the Repub- warned us, the red lights are blinking unanimous consent that the order for lican leader, Senator MCCONNELL, has again. They are coming back. the quorum call be rescinded. not spoken on the Senate floor on this What are we doing about it? Nothing. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. issue since the Helsinki summit, not There will be a chance for my Repub- FLAKE). Without objection, it is so or- even one time. lican colleagues to join the Democrats dered. Why aren’t we urgently moving legis- in a bipartisan effort to take this seri- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, you lation to protect America’s member- ously before it is too late. What do we couldn’t follow this President’s tweets ship in NATO, ensure the integrity of have left, 105 days until the election? It

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.030 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5245 is not much time. The question is LEAHY—who is on the floor with me One hundred percent of these funds whether we will do something to try to today—and Senator KLOBUCHAR, pre- have been committed to the States. As protect our election system. Every paring an amendment to the appropria- of yesterday, 90 percent of the funds Member of this Chamber will have an tions legislation we are going to con- have been disbursed to the States. This opportunity to vote to ensure that sider, offering an additional $250 mil- is pretty remarkable considering that State and local election officials have lion in election security grants to our the fiscal year 2018 omnibus was signed the resources to stop any other effort States. into law just 4 months ago. by the Russians to interfere in our When a similar amendment was of- I have asked what the funding was election. fered at a committee markup last used for. I am told it has assisted Earlier this year, we came together month, we heard it was too early to States in improving election cyber se- and passed a bill—a bipartisan bill— talk about additional funding; we need curity. They have replaced outdated that provided $380 million in fiscal year to wait and see how the $380 million election equipment. They have under- 2018 omnibus spending for States to earlier appropriated would be spent. taken other anti-cyber efforts. modernize and secure their election We know the answer. At a recent That is an important first step. I systems. Funding gave the States flexi- Senate Rules Committee hearing, Cook know all of us do not want our democ- bility to tackle the most critical prior- County Director of Elections Noah racy attacked by foreign aggression. ities: replacing outdated voting ma- Praetz explained that though the $380 More is needed. It is certainly needed chines, for example, that have no paper million was greatly appreciated, more before the November 2018 elections—I trail, updating election computer sys- resources are desperately needed. He might say even afterward. tems to address cyber vulnerabilities. said: ‘‘Given the costs of regular tech- States need postelection audit sys- The Election Assistance Commission nology refreshes and support for tems. They have to be able to verify reports that 55 different entities, in- human resources with cyber capacity, the accuracy of the final vote tally. cluding all the States and territories, the needed investment is very large.’’ They have to be able to upgrade elec- have requested funding from this grant Last week, when asked if the $380 tion-related computer systems if our program. That was an important first million was enough to address the Department of Homeland Security step. It was bipartisan. It should be problem, the President of the National identifies vulnerabilities. I believe the done. It was done, but it is not enough. Association of Secretaries of State State and local election officials After the 2000 election, and months of said: ‘‘[N]o, to put it bluntly . . . Con- should undergo cyber security training. news coverage about hanging chads and gress needs to come up with some kind They should start using established butterfly ballots, Congress passed a of a funding mechanism that is sus- cyber security best practices. These ef- Help America Vote Act to address the tainable and year-in, year-out, not forts are all essential to the security of outdated election infrastructure in once every 10 years.’’ our elections, and my amendment America. We authorized $3.8 billion to Just yesterday, a bipartisan group of would enable them to go forward. In respond to this issue. A few months State attorneys general asked Congress fact, yesterday, 21 State attorneys gen- ago, we authorized one-tenth of that to for increased funding because many eral signed a letter. They urged Con- respond to the Russian threat. We need States lack the resources and tools gress to appropriate more funding for to respond to that threat in a much they need to protect their polling the States to help them meet their se- more robust manner. places. curity needs. I received a memo from our election I urge the adoption of the Leahy-Klo- Let me quote from their letter. They authorities in Illinois specifying how buchar amendment. said: they plan to spend their grant funds It is also time for the majority to Additional funding for voter infrastructure and what they need to do to be more heed former Senator Bill Frist’s sage will not only allow states to upgrade the certain that their election operations advice when he wrote recently in the election systems, but will also allow for a and machinery are intact, and vir- Washington Post: ‘‘[P]atriotism should comprehensive security risk assessment. Un- fortunately, past practice has shown that the tually every State can provide me with always take priority over party.’’ existing Election Assistance Commission a similar memo. I say to the Presiding Officer, I know grants are simply insufficient to provide for We need to respond to this threat in you know that, personally, and you the upgraded technology needed. More fund- a meaningful, robust manner. We know have proven it. ing is essential to adequately equip states full well in Illinois what the Russians Senator Frist went on to say that for the financial resources we need to safe- could have done to us. If they had ‘‘staying silent is no longer an option.’’ guard our democracy and protect the data of taken 500,000 voter registration records I yield the floor. voting members in our states. and simply changed one number in the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- street address of each voter, let me tell ator from Vermont. sent to have printed in the RECORD, at you what would have happened. When I Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I appre- the conclusion of my remarks, a letter, turned up to vote in Springfield, IL, ciate what the distinguished senior dated July 23, 2018, signed by 21 State and listed my home address, they Senator from Illinois just said. I will attorneys general. would have said: No, that address speak about the same amendment. We Mr. President, it is clear that Con- doesn’t match our records. You can will be offering this amendment. It gress—this involves everybody in the vote a provisional ballot if you wish. does provide $250 million for State elec- Congress, Republicans and Democrats We will look into it later. tion security grants. It provides it to alike—must serve as a bulwark against That could have happened thousands protect our upcoming elections from Russian aggression. I say this because of times. Thank goodness it didn’t, but attacks by Russia especially but from our President has, time and again, that is the extent of our vulnerability. many other hostile foreign powers. proven he is either unable or unwilling It is a suggestion of what we might We don’t do this as an exercise. We to do so. Standing on the world stage face again from the Russians, accord- know the attacks have been there in with Vladimir Putin, with everybody ing to our own Intelligence agencies. the past, and they are coming in the watching, President Trump repeatedly Last year, the Department of Home- future. Look at what our intelligence refused to condemn Russia’s attacks on land Security notified election officials community said. They unanimously our democracy. He almost groveled to in 20 other States that Russians at- said that Russia interfered in our 2016 the authoritarian Putin. He praised tempted to hack into their systems, in- election. and defended Putin’s ‘‘strong denial’’ of cluding Texas, Iowa, and Florida—Mr. After the intelligence community Russian interference. Then, to make it President, your home State of Ari- unanimously said they interfered, Con- worse, President Trump attacked our zona—Oklahoma, Alabama, Pennsyl- gress came together, and we appro- own law enforcement institutions vania, Alaska, Colorado, North Dakota, priated $380 million for State election while standing feet away from the very Wisconsin, and Ohio. security grants in the fiscal year 2018 foe our institutions work so hard to We have to make sure we are pre- omnibus. protect us from. pared for future attacks on our democ- Since that time, all 55 eligible States All of our intelligence communities racy. That is why I have joined Senator and territories have requested funding. and law enforcement have the sworn

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.031 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 duty to protect all Americans from for our country. Let’s stand up for our protect our national legacy of fair and free foes like Russia. The President stands intelligence services and have this elections. next to the President of Russia and at- amendment as a chance to take ac- Respectfully, tacks the same law enforcement insti- tion—more than anything else, to Hector Balderas, Attorney General of New Mexico; George Jepsen, Attorney tutions that protect us. stand up for America, stand up for our General of Connecticut; Karl Racine, This brought about, not unexpect- democracy. Attorney General for the District of edly, bipartisan outrage over the Hel- There being no objection, the mate- Columbia; Lisa Madigan, Attorney sinki fiasco. The next day, the Presi- rial was ordered to be printed in the General of Illinois; Janet Mills, Attor- dent tried to walk back his comments. RECORD, as follows: ney General of Maine; Maura Healy, But in typical fashion, he tried to have STATE OF NEW MEXICO, Attorney General of Massachusetts; it both ways. He repeated the baseless OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, Lori Swanson, Attorney General of claim that the attack ‘‘could be other Santa Fe, NM, July 23, 2018. Minnesota; Gurbir Grewal, Attorney people also.’’ Then, the very next day, Chairman MICHAEL MCCAUL, General of New Jersey; Josh Stein, At- torney General of North Carolina; when asked whether Russia is still tar- House Homeland Security Committee, Washington, DC. Peter F. Kilmartin, Attorney General geting the United States, the President Chairman ROY BLUNT, of Rhode Island; Bob Ferguson, Attor- inexplicably said, ‘‘No.’’ That was Senate Rules and Administration Committee, ney General of Washington; Xavier roughly 48 hours after his own Director Washington, DC. Becerra, Attorney General of Cali- of National Intelligence issued a state- DEAR HONORABLE COMMITTEE MEMBERS: fornia; Matthew P. Denn, Attorney ment reaffirming that Russia is en- The undersigned Attorneys General write to General of Delaware; Russell Suzuki, gaged in ‘‘ongoing, pervasive efforts to express our grave concern over the threat to Attorney General of Hawaii; Thomas J. undermine our democracy.’’ Without the integrity of the American election sys- Miller, Attorney General of Iowa; Brian Frosh, Attorney General of going into any of the classified mate- tem. As the latest investigations and indict- ments make clear, during the 2016 election, Maryland; Bill Schuette, Attorney rial—just go by what our intelligence hackers within Russia’s military intel- General of Michigan; Jim Hood, Attor- agencies have said publicly. Russia is ligence service not only targeted state and ney General of Mississippi; Barbara D. engaged in ‘‘ongoing, pervasive efforts local election boards, but also successfully Underwood, Attorney General of New to undermine our democracy.’’ And invaded a state election website to steal the York; Ellen Rosenblum, Attorney Gen- when the President is asked whether sensitive information of approximately eral of Oregon; Mark R. Herring, Attor- they are targeting the United States, 500,000 American voters and infiltrated a ney General of Virginia. the answer isn’t no, it is yes. company that supplies voting software Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I don’t Some have argued that this is an across the United States. know whether there are others seeking issue for the States to deal with en- The allegations in these indictments are the floor. I was going to suggest the ab- extremely troubling. They evidence techno- sence of a quorum, but I see the distin- tirely on their own, that the Federal logically vulnerable election infrastructures Government should not involve itself and the existence of a malicious foreign guished senior Senator from Min- in States’ electoral systems. But our actor eager to exploit these vulnerabilities. nesota, and I yield to her. States were attacked in 2016 by a for- Moreover, it has never been more important The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- eign adversary, and their election sys- to maintain confidence in our democratic ator from Minnesota. tems were hacked by Russia’s foreign voting process. It is imperative that we pro- Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I military intelligence service. tect the integrity of our elections. We must thank the Senator from Vermont for If any one of our States was attacked ensure that the upcoming 2018 midterm elec- his leadership, and I am pleased that tions are secure and untainted. Accordingly, by a foreign government, would we Senator DURBIN has brought us to- we ask for your assistance in shoring up our gether. I also see the Senator from stand by and say: Well, that is the systems so that we may protect our elec- State’s problem. No. We wouldn’t say: tions from foreign attacks and interference Delaware and the Senator from Oregon Well, it is not my State, it is not my by: here. problem. You are on your own. Of Prioritizing and acting on election-secu- I appreciate the work we have seen course not. An attack on any one of us rity legislation. We understand that the Se- on the other side of the aisle on so is an attack on all of us. We are the cure Elections Act (S.2261) is before the Sen- many of these issues regarding elec- United States of America. We would ate at this time and may address some of our tions and Russia, including the Pre- come together to protect that State. concerns. siding Officer’s support for moving for- Increasing funding for the Election Assist- ward on a number of these things. We would provide the Federal resources ance Commission to support election secu- to help them out. That is what we rity improvements at the state level and to Our next election is right around the Americans do. The same standard ap- protect the personal data of the voters of our corner. In fact, this coming Saturday plies here in helping States strengthen states. We are concerned that many states marks 100 days from the 2018 elections. and protect their election infrastruc- lack the resources and tools they need to As we prepare for the midterm elec- ture. protect the polls. Additional funding for vot- tions, two things are clear: First, we We Senators from both parties have a ing infrastructure will not only allow states must hold Russia accountable for the choice: We either heed the fact-based to upgrade election systems, but will also attacks against our democracy in 2016. warnings of our dedicated law enforce- allow for a comprehensive security risk as- This wasn’t meddling. This wasn’t just sessment. Unfortunately, past practice has ment and national security profes- shown that the existing Election Assistance sending a few little tweets. This was an sionals or we do as President Trump Commission grants are simply insufficient to actual cyber attack on our democracy, has done and say: Well, we will take provide for the upgraded technology needed. and we have to call it what it was. Sec- Vladimir Putin at his word. I don’t. We More funding is essential to adequately ondly, we must do more to deter Russia either choose to act as a coequal equip states with the financial resources we and safeguard our democracy against branch of government to defend our de- need to safeguard our democracy and protect future attacks. mocracy or leave that responsibility to the data of voting members in our states. As complex as all this is, that is real- a President who doesn’t see the threat. Supporting the development of cybersecu- ly quite simple. The first thing is, we rity standards for voting systems to prevent have to figure out what happened and In fact, he embraces the threat even potential future foreign attacks. It is crit- when it is standing right beside him. ical that there be a combined effort between hold the people accountable. That is I say to my fellow Senators, if you governments and security experts to protect what is happening with the Mueller in- believe that Russia is fully intent on against the increased cyber threats posed by vestigation, and that is what is hap- destabilizing our democracy yet again foreign entities seeking to weaken our insti- pening with the Intelligence Com- in November, which is something every tutions. mittee investigation and other com- one of our national security and law These changes are essential in order to mittees as well. Secondly, we have to enforcement officials believes—the peo- strengthen public trust in our electoral sys- protect our own democracy in the fu- ple who read all the classified matters tem. The integrity of the nation’s voting in- ture from Russia, from other foreign frastructure is a bipartisan issue, and one every single day, the people who know that affects not only the national political entities, from anyone who might try to our intelligence backward and forward landscape, but elections at the state, county, take away our democracy. That is ex- believe Russia is fully intent on desta- municipal, and local levels. It is our hope actly what happened in this last elec- bilizing our democracy—let’s stand up that you agree, and will take swift action to tion.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.032 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5247 Over the last 18 months, I have come If this administration won’t act, Con- about the vote. After all, he explained to the floor time and again to make gress must. that who voted was ‘‘completely unim- this point: Election security is na- In order to safeguard future elec- portant.’’ What was ‘‘extraordinarily tional security. Efforts to interfere in tions, State and local officials on the important,’’ he said, ‘‘was who would our domestic politics and attack our frontlines of this fight must have the count the votes and how.’’ election infrastructure represent a tools and resources they need to pre- Now, nearly 100 years later, we have threat to our democracy and our secu- vent cyber attacks. someone by the name of Vladimir rity. We recently voted to provide $380 Putin trying to control who counts the We know that Russia coordinated an million in election security funding to votes and how in our own country. This attack against our democracy that States. That was an important first time, it is now, and it is in our elec- launched cyber attacks against at least step. All the States I have talked to tions. Those are the stakes. Election 21 States, including my own. The latest say that was just the beginning, that security is national security, and it is indictment from Special Counsel they would need more resources, but it time to start acting like it. Mueller’s investigation revealed that was an important first step. I worked The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the Russians hacked the website of a on that with Senator LANKFORD, as ator from Oregon. State board of elections and stole the well as Senator COONS and Senator Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, as Sen- information of roughly 500,000 voters. LEAHY. ator KLOBUCHAR has noted, Democrats We not only have them potentially try- I will note that $380 million is just 3 and Republicans are here to talk about ing to influence the vote, we also have percent of the cost of one aircraft car- a critically important issue; that is, them actually stealing voters’ private rier. That is what it is—3 percent of protecting the franchise for our people. information, which, of course, is an- the cost of one aircraft carrier. We I want to begin by saying that the other way to deter voters from wanting have a foreign government that has ink is barely dry on the indictment of to vote. Russia’s efforts also included been trying to attack our elections. We the Russian hackers who tried to un- sophisticated information warfare de- must do more. dermine our democracy, and the Presi- signed to divide our country and weak- During a recent Rules Committee dent of the United States is trying to en Americans’ confidence in our elec- hearing, State and local officials testi- deny that it actually happened. Just tion system. fied that more resources are needed. put your arms around that one for a Hard-working women and men in our Last week, Vermont’s secretary of moment, colleagues. The indictment of intelligence agencies from both Demo- state and the president of the National the Russian hackers is just days old, cratic and Republican administrations Association of Secretaries of State, the President’s own intelligence offi- have confirmed this. The heads of all of Jim Condos, called on Congress to pro- cials are telling him that an attack on our major intelligence operations vide additional funds on an ongoing our democracy is a near certainty, and under President Obama and under basis, not just when a crisis happens. he has just not been willing to step up President Trump have said that this This week, nearly half of our country’s and prevent it. In fact, he continues to happened. In fact, months ago, Direc- State attorneys general sent a letter refuse to accept the basic facts of the tor Coats said that not only did it hap- urging Congress to appropriate more attack the Russians perpetrated in pen but that the Russians are getting, funding for election security. That is 2016. in his words, bolder. why today Senator LEAHY, Senator The fact, however, is that Americans Yet, this month in Helsinki, Presi- COONS, and I will be offering this are learning more and more about what dent Trump was asked if he stands by amendment to the appropriations leg- actually happened, and it is becoming the conclusions of the U.S. intelligence islation that is before us this week increasingly clear that what the Presi- community or the denials of Vladimir that would provide additional funding dent calls a witch hunt is turning up a Putin. He chose to go with Putin. He for election security. lot of witches. The attack on our de- stood there in front of the world, and I am continuing to work with Sen- mocracy was plotted and perpetrated he called Putin’s words ‘‘extremely ator LANKFORD on the Secure Elections by agents of the Russian Government. strong and powerful.’’ That is why so Act, which, along with Senator GRA- It came from the very top. It wasn’t many in this Chamber—Republican and HAM and Senator HARRIS, now has 10 perpetrated by some other, unidenti- Democratic Members of the Senate— cosponsors, Democrats and Repub- fied country, and it wasn’t some ran- have come out and called him on it and licans, equally divided. That bill is im- dom fellow in his mom’s basement; it affirmed the U.S. intelligence conclu- portant. Senator BLUNT has agreed to a was Russia. Somehow, the President is sions and denounced the President’s ac- markup in August. That is very crit- too mesmerized by Vladimir Putin to tions. ical to our moving forward to have leg- admit that. There is no substitute for Presi- islation that puts some parameters in The public learned from the indict- dential leadership—we know that—but place, puts best practices in place, and ments unsealed in the last several days in its absence, Congress must act. We requires audits. All of that must hap- that Russian intelligence officials need to make strong bipartisan com- pen, but for now, we can’t wait. We are hacked into the computers of the mitments to defend our elections and almost 100 days away from this elec- Democratic National Committee, stole show unwavering support for our intel- tion. data, and planted surveillance soft- ligence agencies. Director of National Intelligence ware. They were basically hoovering up Among others things, today Senator Coats recently reaffirmed the threat voter data that belonged to one-half GRAHAM and I submitted a bipartisan Russia poses. He said this: ‘‘Today, the million Americans. They targeted our resolution that reaffirmed strong con- digital infrastructure that serves this election infrastructure and searched gressional support for our intelligence country is literally under attack. . . . for vulnerabilities that might have al- agencies and our diplomats. This is It was in the months prior to Sep- lowed them to affect the results. A supplemental to the work, of course, tember 2001 when, according to then- Russian national with ties to Russian that Senator COONS and Senator FLAKE CIA director George Tenet, the system intelligence used what was called a have been doing. It declares that an at- was blinking red. And here we are near- ‘‘gun rights organization’’ to infiltrate tack on our election system by a for- ly two decades later, and I’m here to conservative circles and sway our po- eign power is a hostile act that should say the warning lights are blinking red litical judgment. be met with a swift and forceful re- again.’’ That is from our National In- Those are the facts, colleagues, and sponse. telligence Director under President no matter how the President twists Passing this resolution sends a clear Trump. himself into a pretzel to try to describe message to Russia: We are united in I would close with this—something it otherwise, those are the realities. our commitment to make sure you pay that happened 95 years ago. In 1923, Jo- Our election system and our digital in- a heavy price for attacking our elec- seph Stalin, then General Secretary of frastructure are still extraordinarily tions, and we are prepared to exercise the Soviet Communists, was asked vulnerable to attack. The President’s our authority to impose even stronger about a vote in the Central Committee own Director of National Intelligence, sanctions. of the party. Stalin was unconcerned our former colleague, has said—not

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.034 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 months ago but recently—that ‘‘the want to be clear about what I think the I yield the floor. lights are blinking red.’’ most important challenge is. Our most The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. So our colleagues Senator LEAHY and important job is to build a new part- JOHNSON). The Senator from Delaware. Senator KLOBUCHAR are proposing an nership between the States and local- Mr. COONS. Mr. President, I rise to important investment of funding to as- ities and Federal election officials that speak about an amendment that I look sist the States. There is no question in actually protects American elections forward to advancing as a member of my mind that when looking at this from getting hacked by the Russians. the relevant Appropriations sub- challenge, this will be a challenge that That is what this is all about—actually committee—in fact, the ranking Demo- benefits from the additional funds making sure we provide that added crat. I was pleased to work in a bipar- since this is a national problem. The measure of assistance and security for tisan way to secure $380 million in the Director of Homeland Security said in American voters. last fiscal year that has been distrib- response to my question that paperless In the name of supporting that cause, uted to the States to secure our elec- voting machines pose a ‘‘national secu- I have proposed legislation called the tions. rity concern.’’ You know, we don’t ask PAVE Act which, in effect, says that As you may have heard, some who Delaware or Oregon or small towns if we have to build around common sense opposed this in the Appropriations they are dealing with an attack on and what the independent cyber secu- Committee, when we took it up and de- their democracy. We don’t say to a rity experts say is important—paper bated it, asked a few simple questions, small town in Delaware or Oregon: Will ballots and postelection audits. That, which I will try to address quickly. you figure out how to do it? We treat it in my view, is the heart of what we Aren’t elections a State and local re- as something where we come together ought to be looking for ways to sup- sponsibility? Why should the Federal government be providing funding for as Americans to tackle the problem. So port. If a polling place starts election States and localities to secure their we are going to need additional funds day with a line of people out the door, elections? It is true that elections are for attacking this extraordinarily im- it ought to end the day with a stack of overwhelmingly run at the State and portant challenge. paper ballots that are hack-proof—a local levels. The cost of securing and I am going to be heading home for verifiable system that the Russians townhall meetings. We have these ses- modernizing our voting machines and cannot touch. voting systems will be overwhelmingly sions, throw open the doors, and If the United States is going to go everybody’s welcome. Folks are going borne at the State and local levels. along with business as usual—election Second, this $380 million was just to hear about what we are talking security status quo of paperless ma- made available, and I don’t think it has about in election security, and folks chines and not very many audits, not even gone out yet. Have they used it are going to say: Ron, what are the effective audits—it is nearly as bad as well, and have they used it properly? best ideas out there for stopping the leaving ballot boxes on street corners Third, why is this something we need Russians from hacking our elections? in Red Square. So I am going to close to do now? Is there any indication that I will say to my colleagues—we are this way. When we have a debate this our upcoming elections are actually going to talk some more about this— important about election security, under threat? cyber security experts are overwhelm- what it is really about is whether Let me briefly speak to those three ingly united on what is best for stop- Americans can trust that control of questions. ping the Russian hackers. Overwhelm- our democracy is actually in their This morning, it was publicly re- ingly, this country’s cyber security ex- hands. The easiest way to destroy what ported that the U.S. Department of perts—people who aren’t Democrats or has certainly been waning confidence Homeland Security, outside of a classi- Republicans; they are people who are Americans have in our elections is to fied setting for the first time, revealed knowledgeable in this field—say the leave election systems vulnerable to that not one, not two, not a dozen, but two things you need most are paper attack. That is practically a surefire more than 100 American power utilities ballots and risk-limiting audits—those way to limit voter participation, and it had been successfully hacked by Rus- two things, paper ballots and risk-lim- certainly is going to generate a new sian military intelligence and that air- iting audits. firestorm of conspiracy theories in gapped control rooms—meaning con- Tens of millions of Americans today every American election from here on. trol rooms that are designed so they have no choice but to vote on unse- So I say to my colleagues and Sen- are not connected to the internet—in cured machines that might as well ator COONS, who really is the gold power-generating or distributing utili- have these words scrolled on them in standard for working with colleagues, ties around the country had been com- Russian: ‘‘Please hack me, comrade.’’ trying to bring people together: Find promised by Russia. There is a level of That pretty much is what you get with approaches that make sense for our sophistication in their invasion and in- these unsecured voting machines. terference in our physical infrastruc- The voting machine industry—I people. He and I have talked, and I think we have agreed that we will take ture that is matched by their sophis- think I talked about this with my tication in interfering and intruding in friend from Delaware—has basically a good idea from anywhere in sight. If there is a good idea on this side of the our election infrastructure. I think the considered themselves to be above the present danger is very clear and very law. They have refused to share vital aisle, we are interested. If there is a good idea over there, we are interested. real. information about their operations As my colleagues stated at great The good idea here, in terms of pro- with me, the Intelligence Committee— length, our Director of National Intel- tecting the votes of the American peo- even basic questions, which are really ligence, Dan Coats, our former col- ple who have been threatened by Rus- called issues relating to cyber hygiene. league, has said repeatedly that our sian hackers, with the evidence as re- But what we know is, some of this vot- election structure is at risk. ing technology has actually come cently as a few days ago with the in- On July 13, Special Counsel Mueller preinstalled with remote monitoring dictments—the best way, according to indicted 12 Russian military officials software. The cyber security experts people who aren’t in politics and are for cyber attacks on our 2016 elections, will tell you that is a recipe for dis- knowledgeable in the field, is to have and we know those attacks are coming aster. The experts also will tell you paper ballots and risk-limiting audits. again. that bar codes, ballot-marking devices, As long as I have the honor to rep- Michael Chertoff, the former Bush are not the heart of a solution to really resent Oregon in the U.S. Senate—we Department of Homeland Security Sec- secure elections. will certainly be talking about this at retary, and Grover Norquist, long When you ask the companies that townhall meetings this weekend. I look known as an advocate for reduced Fed- manufacture these machines, they are forward to working with my colleagues eral spending, jointly wrote an edi- ducking and weaving when they are on both sides of the aisle to advance torial earlier this year—I think it was asked even the most basic and that kind of approach, which I think is in the Washington Post. They said, and straightforward questions about how the surest path to blocking those Rus- I quote, that ‘‘we can replace all they are protecting American voters. sian hackers from doing again and paperless voting machines in the coun- Colleagues, as we move to start this again what they did to us in this past try for less than the cost of an F–22 extraordinarily important debate, I election. fighter jet.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.036 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5249 As Senator KLOBUCHAR has said re- NOMINATION OF BRETT KAVANAUGH Judge Kavanaugh, by contrast, has peatedly and correctly: ‘‘Election secu- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I authored over 300 judicial opinions in rity is national security.’’ want to bring my fellow Senators up to his 12 years on the bench. That is over Chertoff and Norquist concluded with date on a subject that was sparked by 300. That doesn’t include the hundreds this thought: It is not practical to ex- the remarks made this morning by the of other decisions in which he has pect State and local election adminis- minority leader. I also want to add joined an opinion or some sort of order. trators in rural Missouri or small town some additional context that the mi- When you add those to the mix, those Maine or in my State of Delaware or in nority leader left out. are thousands of pages of judicial my colleague’s State of Iowa to go toe- He spoke on the nomination of Judge writings that the American people to-toe with the premier government- Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court. Un- have access to at this exact moment. backed cyber mercenaries of Russia or fortunately, he didn’t come to the floor You don’t have to wait to get this in- China or North Korea. Just as Federal to talk about the judge’s excellent formation about Judge Kavanaugh. To agencies prudently provide support for qualifications, the judge’s well-re- the contrary, Justice Kagan, of course, State law enforcement in dealing with garded temperament, or the judge’s ju- had zero pages of judicial opinions. terrorism, Federal officials should give dicial philosophy. He didn’t come to This is in addition to the 6,168 pages of guidance for support of the election the floor to announce that he would fi- records Judge Kavanaugh just included cyber security threat. nally extend to the judge the courtesy in his response to the Senate Judiciary My home State of Delaware is one of of a meeting, which is customary in questionnaire, which we put on the five with no paper trail for our election this body. He came to speak about website last weekend for the whole systems, and our election systems are what he thinks will satisfy leftwing public to view if it wants to know ev- air-gapped. I just received a letter from outside groups. He demanded that I erything about Judge Kavanaugh as a our State election commissioner, sign a letter that will put the Amer- judge and about the things of which he Elaine Manlove, who has made clear ican taxpayers on the hook for a Demo- spoke and wrote documents about that with the $380 million already dis- cratic fishing expedition, and I am not other than just his judicial opinions. tributed through the money made going to do that. Despite the fact that Judge available last year, they will begin to I agree that we should have a thor- Kavanaugh’s judicial record is much make a downpayment on replacing our ough vetting process for the nominee— more substantial than Justice Kagan’s current, antiquated election machinery and we will—and that we should review was, I agree that we should still ask with those that will have a verifiable materials that will reveal Judge the White House for documents per- paper trail. Kavanaugh’s legal thinking. That is taining to Judge Kavanaugh’s time in I have many more examples I can our job. We are not going to be a the White House Counsel’s Office. My cite, but I will be brief because I have rubberstamp. Fortunately for us, we Democratic colleagues say they want a colleague who has waited long for his have immediate access to the most val- the White House’s records. I am pleased opportunity to speak. uable documents that are out there to let them know that in the coming that will reveal Judge Kavanaugh’s All States have now requested the weeks, the Senate will receive what legal thinking. We have access to the funding, and 90 percent of the funding will likely be the largest document more than 300 opinions Judge has been disbursed. The EAC is work- production in history for a Supreme Kavanaugh authored in his 12 years on ing with States to make sure that they Court nomination. I expect that the the DC Circuit, as well as to the hun- are addressing cyber security issues Senate could receive up to a million dreds more opinions he joined. In these and, in particular, replacing outdated, pages of documents that will be related opinions, he addressed some of the antiquated systems. to Judge Kavanaugh’s time in the most significant legal issues of the past White House Counsel’s Office. We will I will give you one of many examples. decade from the second most powerful also see the White House’s nomination The State of Louisiana last purchased court in the land. file for Judge Kavanaugh’s 2006 nomi- voting equipment in 2005. Its 10,000 vot- This morning, the minority leader nation to the DC Circuit—where, as I ing machines are antiquated, and their brought up a statement that I had have told you, he now sits—along with spare parts are dwindling and are no made in 2010 in connection with Justice records from Judge Kavanaugh’s time longer being manufactured. Louisiana’s Kagan’s Supreme Court nomination. At in the U.S. Office of the Independent secretary of state estimated the re- that time, this Senator was interested Counsel. By comparison, we received placement cost would be between $40 in reviewing documents from her time fewer than 180,000 pages for Justice million and $60 million. A $3 million in the Clinton administration. Kagan’s time in two White House of- downpayment of Federal money is just What the minority leader neglected fices. barely enough to get Louisiana started, to mention was that, unlike Judge Let’s recap. We have more than 300 of not enough to complete the job. Kavanaugh, Justice Kagan had not Judge Kavanaugh’s actual judicial Let me close by saying that election served as a judge before being nomi- opinions to Justice Kagan’s zero. We security is not a partisan issue; it is nated to the Supreme Court. Besides could have up to five times as many about protecting who we are as a na- the Federal Government service she pages from his time in the White House tion. Free and fair and regular elec- had had at the time she was nomi- as we received from Justice Kagan’s tions define us as a democracy. Demo- nated, she had been the dean of a law time, and we will have those docu- crats, Republicans, and Independents— school. Other than Kagan’s materials ments despite the fact that they are all Americans—who want to know that that she had submitted as part of the less necessary now than they were for their votes are counted and our elec- Senate Judiciary questionnaire for her Justice Kagan. In short, there will be tions are free and fair should care nomination, her White House Counsel’s much more transparency in this Su- about a Federal role in supporting Office and Domestic Policy Council preme Court confirmation process than States and localities as they work to documents had been some of the few ever before. ensure that our election systems are categories of documents that could I am ready now to send a letter to protected and our equipment can’t be have shed light on her legal thinking the National Archives to request rel- compromised. since she hadn’t had any judicial evant White House Counsel documents. This is an issue not just for the No- writings, meaning as a judge. Justice I would like to do this with the rank- vember 2018 elections but for the 2020 Kagan had written or joined a grand ing member, but unfortunately she has elections. total of zero judicial opinions before declined this request. This is unfortu- The amendment we hope to call up her nomination. For those of us on the nate. Both sides agree that the White later today should not be controver- Senate Judiciary Committee to have House Counsel documents are relevant. sial. This is about protecting our de- carried out our constitutional advice I would like to get them over here as mocracy. and consent responsibilities as Sen- quickly as possible so we can begin re- I yield the floor. ators, we had needed to better under- viewing them. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- stand her legal thinking and potential Yet, as I noted, the Democratic lead- ator from Iowa. jurisprudence. ership has already decided to oppose

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Judge Kavanaugh’s confirmation. They has, which proves what I have been and that message is three words: We would like to slow down the process as talking about, and his request proves don’t care. We don’t care. The unfortu- much as possible. I think that explains that he is willing to do that because nate thing is, I think some—it is a why the ranking member will not sign this bloated document request is part small minority, but some don’t. a letter that requests documents both of that fight. This is not about any- Last September, when Texas and sides want. thing other than obstruction—to bury parts of Louisiana were still reeling I have heard that some of my Demo- us under millions and millions of pages from Hurricane Harvey, one Member of cratic colleagues would like to request of paper so we cannot have a confirma- the U.S. Congress actually said: ‘‘The all of Judge Kavanaugh’s records from tion vote on Judge Kavanaugh this federal government is encouraging and his time as White House Staff Sec- year. subsidizing people to live in harm’s retary, but these documents are both Liberal, dark money outside groups way . . . at some point, God is telling the least relevant to Judge want to drag this confirmation out just you to move.’’ Kavanaugh’s legal thinking and the as far as they can—till the end of time. Give me a break. Are you kidding most sensitive to the executive branch. I will not let them. This confirmation me? The Staff Secretary is the in-box and process should focus on Judge The fact is, 50 percent of our coun- out-box of the Oval Office. Passing Kavanaugh’s qualifications, not be- try’s population and 50 percent of our through the Staff Secretary’s office is come a taxpayer-funded fishing expedi- country’s jobs are along our coasts and a wide range of communications that tion. waterways. Do you really think they request things like flying the flag at I yield the floor. ought to just move? Living near water half-mast to somehow including daily The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- is an economic necessity. People have lunch menus, to draft speeches, to sen- ator from Louisiana. been doing it since the beginning of sitive national security papers. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM time. It is as true for us now as it was The Staff Secretary’s primary charge Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I am in Biblical times that our economies is not to provide his own substantive almost embarrassed to talk about what and our livelihoods are tied to water. work product; the Staff Secretary I am going to have to talk about today. Let’s take the Mississippi River that makes sure that the President sees Once again, in the U.S. Congress, we runs through my State. Each year, it memos and policy papers that have find ourselves only days away from sustains more than 1.3 million jobs and been produced by other offices in the causing a lapse in the National Flood generates more than $405 billion in rev- White House. It is a very important Insurance Program. enue. How many jobs are tied to the job. It requires someone who is smart, The majority of Members of the U.S. 12,000 miles of U.S. coastline? What do someone who is hard-working, and Senate and the U.S. House of Rep- you think would be the economic im- someone who is talented. resentatives understand the impor- pact if everyone who lived near one of The documents that passed through tance of extending this program but the 3.5 million miles of rivers in this Judge Kavanaugh’s office while he was sadly some don’t. You can lead some great country just picked up and Staff Secretary are not particularly people to water, but you can’t make moved tomorrow—as if they could af- relevant to his legal thinking or for the them think. ford to do so. Give me a break. I hope consideration of whether he should be Without congressional action, ordi- we never have to find out what would on the Supreme Court. It is like say- nary Americans—the people who get up happen, but one thing is certain, no- ing, in a sense, that the Senate Sec- every day, go to work, obey the law, body is going to move before July 31, retary—someone who has a very dif- pay their taxes, and try to do the right when the NFIP expires, just because ficult and demanding job—is respon- things by their kids—are going to suf- some Members of Congress erroneously sible for all of the positions taken by fer. These folks work pretty hard to think they ought to. each of the Senate offices. It is absurd. earn money to cover their mortgages, I want to make two other points. The Senate should focus its efforts on to pay their insurance premiums, to First, if Congress allows the NFIP to reviewing his tens of thousands of put food on the table, and to hopefully expire, it is going to stall thousands pages of judicial opinions and other have a little extra when all is said and and thousands and thousands of home legal writings. Not only would a broad done. closings. That is right. Because the law review of Staff Secretary documents be The U.S. Government made a prom- requires it, many lenders require home- a waste of time, but it would also be a ise to these people, these taxpaying owners to carry flood insurance. If waste of taxpayers’ money. Americans, that if they pay their flood there is no NFIP, then there is no flood Moreover, Staff Secretary documents insurance premiums, we will have their insurance. If there is no flood insur- contain some of the most sensitive in- backs when they have a flood. We are ance, then there is no home sale. formation and advice that went di- about to tell them we lied. When you The last time Congress chose to do rectly to President Bush from a range lie to Congress, it is a felony. When nothing and let the National Flood In- of policy advisers. Congress lies to you, it is just politics, surance Program expire, the NFIP Back in 2010, both Democrats and Re- and that is not right. lapsed for a total of 53 days. That was publicans agreed that Justice Kagan, Unless we do something, the National in 2010. Over those 2 months, each and because of the sensitivity of the docu- Flood Insurance Program, the NFIP, is every day, 1,400 home sales were can- ments, shouldn’t produce internal com- going to expire on July 31. Now, unless celed. That is every day. That is not munications while she was Solicitor you are a rock—only dumber—that is total. That is every day. Think about General. in 8 days, including today. how that is going to impact our econ- If we are going to talk about a Kagan Every once in a while, Congress omy. Isn’t that special? standard, then we need to talk about seems to just decide that keeping our Just when we finally get the U.S. taking sensitive communications off promise to the American taxpayer isn’t economy moving again, we are going to the table. That is what all sides had worth the effort. What planet did we step on it by letting the National Flood agreed to in 2010 and what I will insist parachute in from that we can’t even Insurance Program expire. No wonder on now. maintain the status quo on something many Americans say—and I hear it all I appreciate the minority leader’s ef- that affects the lives of millions of peo- the time—yes, there are some good forts to ensure some transparency and ple and helps more than 22,000 commu- Members of Congress. We just can’t fig- thoroughness, but let’s get right down nities across this great country? ure out what they are good for. to brass tacks: I don’t think the minor- I am standing here today because the I am also tired of hearing that the ity leader actually wants to read the reauthorization of the NFIP has never NFIP is being abused by rich people for millions of pages that crossed Judge been more urgent. Let me say it again. their beach homes. I hear it all the Kavanaugh’s desk way back in 2004 and We have 8 days until disaster. If the time. That is a bunch of bovine waste. for probably the 3 years he held the po- NFIP is allowed to expire on July 31, As a matter of fact, 98.5 percent—al- sition of Staff Secretary. Congress is going to be sending a clear most 99 percent—of all NFIP policies The minority leader said he will fight message to the 5 million hard-working are in counties with a median house- this nomination with everything he Americans who count on this program, hold income of less than $100,000, and 62

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.039 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5251 percent are in counties with a median to take on this program at the Depart- year mark will occur this weekend on household income below the national ment of Commerce. Saturday. average of $54,000. Dr. Fleming is a public servant’s pub- So a few of us wanted to come to the You don’t have to live near a body of lic servant. He is a four-term Member floor today to talk about what has hap- water. If you get 22 inches of rain in 2 of the U.S. House of Representatives. pened since that fateful vote a year ago days, you are going to flood, even if He is a physician. He went to the Uni- that was, frankly, celebrated all across you live on Pikes Peak. For those who versity of Mississippi, undergraduate this country, as folks who were deeply live in a coastal State like my State or and medical school. He is an entre- fearful that their healthcare was going elsewhere on a floodplain, the reality preneur and businessman. Aside from to be ripped away from them by the is, the NFIP is the only place you can his family medical practice, his busi- Congress realized they might be able to turn to protect your property. Floods nesses support about 600 jobs in my rely on it for at least another year. are the most common and the most State. Let me set the stage, first by remind- costly natural disaster. The damage After Dr. Fleming finished at Ole ing people of the promises that were that is done by hail, fire, wind, or a Miss and finished med school, he en- made. This is President Trump shortly fallen tree is covered by a homeowner’s listed in the U.S. Navy. He served there after his election and just before his insurance but not a flood. If you have a in the Medical Corps. swearing in. He said: flood, it is not covered by your home- During his time in the House of Rep- We’re going to have insurance for every- owner’s policy. resentatives, Dr. Fleming was a cham- body. People covered under the law can ex- The Federal Government made a pion of our economy, a champion for pect to have great healthcare . . . much less expensive and much better. promise. We promised more than 5 mil- families, and a champion for our vet- lion Americans—half a million in my erans. He is a skilled physician, he is That is a clear promise that the State alone—that we would have their an experienced entrepreneur, and he is President made: Everybody is going to backs. We promised them that if they a good guy. I know Dr. John Fleming have insurance. It is going to be less would pay their hard-earned money and his family well, and I am honored expensive, and it is going to be better— into the National Flood Insurance Pro- to be able to endorse his nomination. more insurance, less expensive, better gram through premiums, if they flood- Just to show you that he is well- quality. The vote that took place a year ago ed, we would cover it. It is time we get rounded—I forgot this—John also has a this Saturday would have done exactly our act together and keep that prom- black belt in karate. I am not sure the opposite. It would have kicked 30 ise. The NFIP is just too important to when he has time, but he is a well- million people off of insurance. It be used as a political football. For mil- rounded guy. would have driven up costs for millions lions of people in this country, in my I have no doubt—none whatsoever— of Americans—especially those people State and elsewhere, this program is that Dr. Fleming is well qualified to be with preexisting conditions. Coverage the only way they can protect their a very fine Assistant Secretary of the would have been much worse, not much most valuable asset—their home—and, Economic Development Administra- better, in part because people with pre- tion, and I endorse his nomination cat- at a minimum, we owe those hard- existing conditions wouldn’t be able to egorically and unconditionally. working Americans some peace of access care. Thank you. mind. So this promise never came true be- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- I urge my colleagues to support S. cause of the vote that we took a year ator from Connecticut. 3128, my bill and the bill of BILL CAS- ago this Saturday. SIDY, the senior Senator from Lou- HEALTHCARE But, occasionally, the President does isiana. It will extend the National Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, we are say something that is true. This is a Flood Insurance Program for 6 months on the verge of the 1-year mark since picture of the celebration that the to get us through hurricane season. the U.S. Senate attempted to take House of Representatives had at the That is all it does. It just maintains away healthcare from 30 million Amer- White House the day they voted on the the status quo. It doesn’t change any- icans and was told no by the American proposal that would rip away thing. It just says the National Flood public. healthcare from 30 million Americans, Insurance Program we have today is For virtually the entire time, since before the vote that took place here in going to be extended for 6 months to the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the Senate. There are a lot of smiling get us through hurricane season, while Republicans in the House and in the faces of Members of Congress who were we in the Senate and in the House con- Senate engaged in an exercise that was so excited that people who had cancer tinue to work on a reform bill that futile while President Obama was in of- or people who had diabetes would be would rework the NFIP and turn it fice but then was made possible by the unable to get healthcare insurance. into a program that looks like some- election of Donald Trump—that was This quote is not actually from this body designed it on purpose. That is all the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, press conference. It is from a rally that my bill and Senator CASSIDY’s bill which extended care to 20 million the President held just a few weeks does. Americans who weren’t guaranteed ago. He was talking about the fact that We simply can’t afford to let the that health insurance would actually JOHN MCCAIN and some others voted folks in our at-risk communities down, cover the things they needed and pro- against that proposal on the Senate especially those exposed during hurri- tected people who were sick or people floor, which caused it to fail. He said— cane season. Truthfully, they deserve with preexisting conditions from dis- these are the President’s words: ‘‘It’s better from us. crimination. all right, because we have essentially NOMINATION OF JOHN FLEMING When Republicans finally took over, gutted it’’—the Affordable Care Act— Mr. President, I want to speak very they realized they had spent a whole ‘‘anyway.’’ ‘‘It’s all right, because we briefly about a friend of mine who has lot of time criticizing the Affordable have essentially gutted it anyway.’’ been nominated by President Trump Care Act but not a lot of time figuring So that summarizes what has hap- for a very important position in the out what would come next, and most of pened since the failed vote on the floor Federal Government. This friend’s 2017 was spent in an embarrassing se- of the Senate a year ago. President name is John Fleming, and he has been ries of proposals that, according to the Trump and his Republican friends in nominated by the President to be As- Congressional Budget Office, would Congress, all smiling behind him, have sistant Secretary for the Economic De- uninsure somewhere in the neighbor- gutted the Affordable Care Act, not be- velopment Administration at the De- hood of 20 to 30 million people. cause they want better healthcare for partment of Commerce. Finally, when a vote was called on people but because they are just angry Dr. Fleming currently serves as the the floor of the Senate, just enough Re- that they couldn’t get the votes to do Deputy Assistant Secretary of Health publican Senators chose to side with it here in Congress. So they are doing IT Reform at the Department of Health the American people, who want to it by other means. and Human Services, and he has done a maintain the protections of the Afford- So a few of us are going to be on the wonderful job. He has done such a great able Care Act and work to perfect it, floor to talk about what has happened job that the President has asked him that the bill failed by one vote. That 1- in the last year.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.040 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5252 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 I actually think that most of my col- Committee, I just want to talk about the floor and explain what the stakes leagues do want better healthcare for the next phase of the sabotage cam- are. their constituents, but I don’t under- paign. I yield is floor. stand how any of what has happened, If Republicans in Congress can’t get The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- either through legislative act or the American people to support a legis- ator from Washington. through administrative action, gets us lative act to repeal the Affordable Care Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I wish there—gets us to that promise that Act, the next hope is for the courts to to thank the Senator from Con- President Trump made in January of do it. That is why the nomination of necticut. I, too, join him in being very 2017. Brett Kavanaugh is so critical to this proud, as we were a year ago, to see Here is what is going on. First, the continued campaign of trying to under- Congress stand with families across the President signed an Executive order mine the Affordable Care Act, because country who did not want to see their saying that all of his agencies should you probably can’t get the majority of healthcare rolled back. start to take their own actions to un- Members of Congress to wipe away pro- A year ago, as Senator MURPHY said, wind the protections of the Affordable tections for people with preexisting President Trump tried to make good on Care Act. Then he stopped the mar- conditions, but maybe you can get the his campaign promise to repeal the Af- keting for the Affordable Care Act so Supreme Court to do it. fordable Care Act and to jeopardize that less people would know about the There is a case that I just referenced healthcare for millions of people. A year ago, the President tried to jam options that were available to them. that the Trump administration is sup- TrumpCare through Congress. It was a Then the President came to Congress porting, moving its way through the harmful, mean-spirited bill that would and worked with Republicans to take courts, that would invalidate—con- have spiked premiums and gutted Med- away one of the most important pillars stitutionally invalidate—Congress’s icaid and scrapped protections for peo- of the Affordable Care Act—the re- protections for people with preexisting ple with preexisting conditions, which quirement that healthy people buy in- conditions. These are people with can- would put families back at the mercy surance. That action alone will result cer, diabetes, heart disease, mental ill- ness, cerebral palsy, Crohn’s Disease, of big insurance companies. in 13 million people losing insurance But people across the country stood ALS, addiction, Lupus, epilepsy, Par- and rates going up for 10 million Amer- up, they spoke out, and they made it kinson’s, and the list goes on. icans. absolutely clear that they did not want President Trump made clear during Most recently the President author- President Trump to take away their the campaign that he wasn’t going to ized the sale of junk insurance plans all healthcare or give power back to those pick a judge in the mold of John Rob- across this country—plans that don’t insurance companies. have to cover mental health or pre- erts, who would uphold the Affordable During that debate, I heard personal scription drugs or maternity care. Care Act. He was going to pick judges stories from patients and families all He then cut funding even deeper for that would rule with him to strike over my State of Washington who were the personnel that help you find what down the Affordable Care Act. That is concerned about TrumpCare because it insurance is right for you, and he in- also probably why he outsourced the would make it harder to get the care structed the people that remain to decision on whom to pick for this va- they needed. push Americans onto the junk plans. cant slot to political groups like the I heard stories like Julie’s. Julie has Then the President sent his lawyers Heritage Foundation. a genetic condition. As a result of that, to court to argue that Congress actu- So the expectation is that Brett she has had four—four—different types ally can’t protect people with pre- Kavanaugh will deliver one of those of cancer. She has had four different existing conditions because it is uncon- five needed votes to strike down the organs removed during treatment. She stitutional, which would wipe out all of laws on the books, which Congress has had her diet severely restricted, the protections that people enjoy can’t find the votes to override, pro- and her life has dramatically changed. today. tecting people with preexisting condi- But she is a fighter. She had excellent So it is really no mystery as to why, tions. The Supreme Court could take care, and she ultimately won each of as the 2019 premium increases are com- away your healthcare if you have a his- those four battles with cancer. ing out, they are catastrophic. They tory of any of these diseases, and, if However, without protections for are catastrophic. Fourteen States have that happens, the results are lethal. If people with preexisting conditions, her insurance companies that have re- you have metastatic cancer and you healthcare costs could skyrocket. If quested premium increases of 10 to 20 don’t have the protection in the law President Trump had his way, Julie percent. Connecticut is one of those. that says insurance companies can’t could not get the care she needed, and, Five States have insurance companies charge you more because you are sick, by the way, she is not the only one. that requested premium increases of 30 a recent study shows that you will be I also heard from families like the percent or more. Think about that for charged a rate of $142,000 higher than family of a woman named Vanessa. a second: 30 percent or more. Who can what you pay today. If you are an indi- When Vanessa was pregnant, she afford a 30-percent or a 40-percent in- vidual with diabetes, your increase learned that her daughter would be crease in premiums? One insurance could be 137 percent on top of what you born with significant health chal- company requested a 94-percent in- are paying now. lenges. In fact, her daughter Cheyenne crease in rates. So these are the stakes. These are had her first surgery when she was just In 21 of the States that have rates the stakes as we prepare to vote on 20 days old, and she would have two filed already, the insurers said the rea- Judge Kavanaugh’s nomination, and it more before her very first birthday. son they are doing this—the reason is all in service of this very inten- Even though Cheyenne was born with they are passing along enormous pre- tional, very deliberate, very planful preexisting conditions that would be mium increases—is because of the sab- campaign of sabotage. costly to treat for years to come, otage campaign that is being run by A year ago this Saturday the Amer- Vanessa, her mom, was able to get in- the President and by this Congress, all ican people got their way, and this surance through our State exchange or most of it occurring since the failure body decided not to repeal the Afford- and get her daughter the care she need- of the repeal vote a year ago. able Care Act because people like the ed. But if President Trump had his It is all right, says the President. We fact that 20 million people have insur- way, that might not be possible. didn’t need to repeal the Affordable ance. People like the fact that people Last year, in the midst of the Care Act. That vote that we are mark- with preexisting conditions are pro- TrumpCare debate, I shared Vanessa’s ing the 1-year anniversary of doesn’t tected. That night, the American peo- story, Julie’s story, and many stories really matter because we have essen- ple got their way, but since then, the from families in Washington State, and tially gutted it—the Affordable Care President and this Congress have been I heard even more that I would love to Act, the American healthcare system— working to undermine it, and the next share. People from other States across anyway. step in that plan is the elevation of the country were also reaching out and So, finally, before I turn this over to Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme letting their Senators know how dam- the ranking member on the HELP Court. It is important for us to come to aging TrumpCare would be for their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.043 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5253 family and urging them to vote against than they were last year and that more Let me transition to where we are it. It worked. of them will join us on the side of pa- today. Today we are in a place where, Last year we came together and gave tients and families, not the President just a year ago, consistent, repeated ef- President Trump’s healthcare repeal on the side of insurance companies. forts after the 2016 election by Repub- scheme a big thumbs down. Unfortu- I yield the floor. licans in Congress to repeal without a nately, that has not stopped President The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- plan to replace the ACA resulted in a Trump from doing everything he can to ator from Delaware. situation where, as my colleague from sabotage families’ healthcare from the Mr. COONS. Mr. President, I thank Connecticut has laid out, the Trump Oval Office. my colleagues from Washington and administration has done its best to roll When he couldn’t jam through Connecticut for being here, for speak- back ways in which progress was made TrumpCare, instead he jammed ing out, and for being so remarkable in to extend quality, affordable through a partisan tax bill that gave their persistence in defending Amer- healthcare to more Americans. cuts to big insurance companies and ica’s concerns about healthcare. I want After a number of efforts to repeal drug companies and paid for them with to add my voice for just a few mo- the law failed last year, thanks to the steps that even his former Health and ments, if I might. American people who stood up and had Human Services Secretary confessed Let me look back 8 years to when I their voices heard, the administration would drive up families’ premiums. first joined the Senate in 2010. At that has decided to take a different ap- He slashed investments that help point, the Affordable Care Act was proach—a slow and steady unraveling people understand their healthcare op- barely a year old. Since then, in the and undermining of the protections tions and get coverage. early years of the Affordable Care Act, that made the ACA work. He handed power back to the insur- we saw some very positive patterns: It started with a decision to stop ance companies by expanding loopholes More Americans gained access to cost-sharing reduction payments, for junk plans and making it easier to health insurance; the growth of which help working families afford ignore patient protections, including healthcare costs slowed; insurance their premiums and access care. It con- protections, by the way, for women, for markets put in place under the ACA tinued when they changed the rules seniors, and for people with preexisting proved to be resilient, despite repeated and encouraged people to sign up for conditions. challenges. As a result of the ACA, 20 plans that didn’t have all the benefits The Trump administration is even re- million more Americans, including and consumer protections of the ACA— fusing to defend preexisting protec- 38,000 Delawareans, gained access to really, junk plans—which made it pos- tions in court, both abandoning its high-quality, comprehensive sible to bring back discrimination duty to defend the law and ignoring the healthcare coverage. against women and those with pre- It is through the ACA exchange that will of the people across the country existing conditions. It culminated last my own family and I get our who want them to fight for these pro- month with something that was done healthcare, and so many others in tections. in a fly-by-night way and may not have Delaware have a chance to get access While President Trump has broken a been visible at all to my constituents to healthcare. The 190,000 people, in my lot of promises, it is clear that he has and viewers: a decision to no longer de- little State of 900,000 people, who have never wavered in his promise to under- fend the core components of the ACA preexisting conditions no longer had to mine healthcare for our families, and in court, including protections for worry about being denied coverage, and he has never failed to put insurance those with preexisting conditions, in a lifetime caps were a thing of the past. companies ahead of patients. lawsuit brought by 20 attorneys gen- That is why his decision to nominate This matters; it has saved lives. eral from States that overwhelmingly Judge Kavanaugh to the Supreme Just listen briefly to the story of Ni- opposed the ACA. This decision was so Court is such an alarming omen for cole from my little hometown of shocking that three career Justice De- families’ healthcare. Hockessin, DE, a small farming town of partment attorneys withdrew from the As a candidate, President Trump left just a few thousand people. Nicole’s 3- case, and one with over 20 years’ expe- no question that he would nominate year-old daughter was born with cystic rience resigned from his job. Make no far-right Supreme Court Justices who fibrosis, a horrible disease that robs mistake, this was the administration would strike down the Affordable Care children and people of the ability to sabotaging the ACA and our healthcare Act and jeopardize care for millions of breathe. Nicole’s 3-year-old daughter system. President Trump even admit- families. To be sure that candidates with cystic fibrosis spent at least an ted at a campaign event, just cited by met that extreme ideological standard, hour a day getting breathing treat- my colleague from Connecticut, that he had them vetted by extreme, ideo- ments from her mother. At $5,000 a he had gutted the ACA. logical conservative groups. month for her medications—not We know that President Trump chose cheap—Nicole was confident that with- This may resonate with the Presi- Judge Kavanaugh because he has no out the ACA she would have exceeded dent’s base. It may resonate with peo- doubt that Kavanaugh will support his her annual caps and her medical ex- ple he hopes will vote him back into of- efforts to sabotage family healthcare penses well before the end of the year. fice in the future election. But for mil- and make it harder for people to get Nicole, in reaching out to me, made lions of families across the country and the care they need. it clear that without the consumer pro- in my home State, losing protections We know that preexisting condition tections of the Affordable Care Act, she against preexisting condition discrimi- protections are on the line. would have had one of three choices: nation is a death sentence. We know that stopping Kavanaugh’s hope she would qualify for Medicaid— It would be devastating for Nicole confirmation isn’t a matter of partisan unlikely, due to her income; go into and her daughter, whom I described be- politics. For many families in our debt to pay for her daughter’s treat- fore. It would be devastating for Kim country, it is a matter of life and ments; or stop giving her daughter from my hometown of residence, Wil- death. some of the medication she depends on mington, a thyroid cancer survivor We know we can stop it if people to save her life. All of that assumed who is now able to get insurance. Be- across this country do exactly what that her daughter’s cystic fibrosis cause her cancer isn’t considered a pre- they did to beat TrumpCare—stand up, wasn’t considered a preexisting condi- existing condition under the Affordable speak out, and make clear that fami- tion that would prevent her from get- Care Act, she is not subject to pre- lies who didn’t want their healthcare ting any insurance at all. Because of existing condition discrimination. In stripped away last year don’t want it that circumstance, Nicole’s story ex- my small State of Delaware, gutting stripped away this year either. I have emplifies the life-changing gains and protections for preexisting conditions heard from many families concerned positive trends that the ACA provided. would leave one in five at risk of sky- about this, and I know others are shar- Unfortunately, there were some rocketing health insurance costs or ing their stories as well. other challenges as well, which I will losing coverage altogether. So I hope that our Republican col- summarize quickly, that have devel- This lawsuit impacts every corner of leagues are listening even more closely oped over time. America’s healthcare system, and the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.044 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5254 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 fact that our administration is not de- ful that there is still time for us to do They aren’t going to forget how fending the law of the land is a shock- our job on a bipartisan basis and secure TrumpCare would have slapped older ing development. It impacts not just healthcare for all of America. consumers with a punishing age tax those who get their healthcare through As happened roughly a year ago next and eliminated the Affordable Care the ACA exchanges. It would impact month, the floor of this Senate can Act’s essential health benefits provi- 150 million Americans who get their still be moved by the voices of Ameri- sion, which requires all health plans to health insurance through their em- cans who would say to this administra- cover basic things like prescription ployer because it would eliminate pro- tion: Stop your refusal to defend the drugs, maternity care, and visits to tections against lifetime and annual ACA. Let’s move forward in a positive specialists. They aren’t going to forget limits on care. It would impact seniors way, together. how TrumpCare slashed tax credits on Medicare who would see increased I yield the floor. that helped middle-class families pur- prescription drug costs. It would im- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. chase coverage or how it would have pact Americans who depend on free RUBIO). The Senator from New Jersey. ended Medicaid as we know it, aban- Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, preventive services, like cancer doning seniors in nursing homes, preg- today I join my Democratic colleagues screenings and flu shots, because those nant women, disabled Americans, and to condemn the Trump administra- policy components of the ACA would be the most vulnerable. tion’s efforts to sabotage the Afford- eliminated. It would impact young peo- Nor will Americans forget how Presi- able Care Act. dent Trump turned his back on pa- ple who would lose the right to stay on Not so long ago, Donald Trump ran tients with preexisting conditions— their parents’ health insurance until for President, promising better, cheap- which basically means someone had an age 26. er healthcare for everyone. But instead These are just a few of the dev- illness in their life or was born with a of making anything better, President astating impacts if the Texas v. United birth defect and, therefore, had what Trump is making everything in this re- States lawsuit is successful in ripping gard worse. insurance companies considered to be a out what is left of the protections of Big corporations are raking in tril- preexisting condition that they could the ACA. It would have a real and tan- lion-dollar tax cuts while the forgotten discriminate against and either not gible impact on families in my State of Americans the President promised to provide insurance coverage or have Delaware and across our country. That protect are drowning in higher pre- skyrocketing costs in order to get the is why I am glad to support a resolu- miums, higher deductibles, and higher coverage. tion proposed by my colleagues Sen- prescription drug costs. It is time to As a candidate, and then as Presi- ators MANCHIN, CASEY, MCCASKILL, and call out who is responsible for those dent, Trump promised again and again others to defend the constitutionality soaring healthcare costs. that he would uphold protections for of preexisting condition protections in Make no mistake, while the media is preexisting conditions. He went so far our healthcare system. This is critical riveted on the President’s every tweet as to say that TrumpCare would be to the well-being and the health of the and the Russia investigation’s every ‘‘every bit as good on pre-existing con- families we represent. turn, the Trump administration is ditions as Obamacare.’’ So much for My Democratic colleagues and I doing everything it can to make that. The Trump administration is know the ACA was not perfect when healthcare less affordable and less ac- now, as we speak, arguing in a Federal passed. I have heard from small busi- cessible to the American people. court that these protections are uncon- ness owners in my home State about When you turn on the news, you stitutional, and you can guess what some of the limitations due to in- don’t hear about the millions of Ameri- Republican colleagues in Congress are creases in cost and the ways in which cans who have lost their coverage doing about it—absolutely nothing. they wish we had a more robust tax under President Trump’s watch. You Instead of working to make credit for small businesses, ways they don’t hear about how prices for the top healthcare more affordable, they are wish we would work together to perfect 10 diabetes drugs have spiked over 25 cheerleading efforts by the Trump ad- the ACA. That is why I came to the percent, despite the President’s wild ministration to push junk insurance floor time and again in my first 4 years claims that drug companies will volun- plans on consumers, ignoring the at- here, seeking colleagues across the tarily lower their prices. You will not tacks on our health insurance markets aisle who were willing to work with us hear about the administration’s cyn- that have sent premiums skyrocketing, to make the Affordable Care Act bet- ical efforts to destabilize our insurance and standing in silence as the Trump ter. markets and send premiums sky- administration makes the case that Instead of working to tear down the rocketing, like the Health and Human the Affordable Care Act’s protections ACA, we should have been working to Services Department’s recent freezing for preexisting conditions are unconsti- address challenges with affordability of the risk adjustment program. tutional. and coverage, increasing tax credits for Look, healthcare policy may be com- Republicans’ reckless abandonment small businesses, and making it strong- plicated, but there is nothing com- of families with preexisting conditions er and more sustainable. Instead of plicated about the idea that healthcare is even more concerning, given Presi- sabotaging the care millions of Ameri- is a human right. There is nothing con- dent Trump’s nomination of Judge cans have depended on, we should have troversial about the idea that cancer Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme ensured there was more competition in patients shouldn’t be price gouged as Court. This is a judge with a long his- the marketplace, especially in small they battle the worst illness of their tory of ruling against consumers, sid- States like my own. I wish we had, in- life. There is nothing radical about the ing with corporate interests, and as- stead, taken a path of pursuing com- idea that in the most prosperous coun- sailing the constitutionality of the Af- monsense regulatory reforms and cost try on Earth, every American deserves fordable Care Act. If Republicans were containment efforts to slow the rate of quality, affordable healthcare. really concerned about protecting pa- growth of healthcare costs. I know my Republican colleagues tients with preexisting conditions, It is not too late for that. It is still have no desire to remind voters how they would put the brakes on this nom- not impossible that we could set aside they spent the past year, but the Amer- ination. Instead, they have left the the divisive partisan rhetoric and that ican people aren’t going to forget it. health and financial security of mil- this administration will abandon its They aren’t going to forget how many lions of patients with preexisting con- underhanded attempts to sabotage this times Republicans spent in a year ditions in the President’s hands. healthcare law and, instead, focus on pushing policies that would have left 32 There are nearly 3.8 million people in pursuing constructive, bipartisan fixes. million people uninsured, with vote my home State of New Jersey with pre- The bottom line is the Affordable after vote after vote to repeal the Af- existing conditions. I have had the op- Care Act has helped millions of Ameri- fordable Care Act. They aren’t going to portunity to meet with some of them cans—like Nicole and Kim, whose sto- forget how Republicans tried to defund in recent months. They are outraged ries I shared with you—live healthier Planned Parenthood and deny millions that we are even having this debate. and more secure lives. I am not opti- of lower income women access to basic They are afraid this President could mistic, but I insist on remaining hope- care. take us back to a time when having a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.046 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5255 history of asthma or diabetes meant rising premiums, deductibles, and pre- (1) engage the community in which the being denied coverage or dropping your scription drug bills. Democrats are covered facility is located, including the plan at any moment. committed to delivering on those solu- State and units of local government; and Let me tell you about the folks I met tions. We have always been crystal (2) include the estimated costs of carrying out the activities described in the plan. with recently in Belleville, NJ. I heard clear about what motivates our work from Ann, who is a survivor of sexual on healthcare. We believe that all AMENDMENT NO. 3430 assault and today suffers from post- Americans deserve affordable (Purpose: To provide amounts for inspection healthcare, no matter where they live, of foreign seafood manufacturers and field traumatic stress disorder. If President examinations of imported seafood) how much money they make, or what Trump gets his way, insurers could On page 370, line 20, insert ‘‘, of which no once again charge her more for cov- healthcare conditions they face. That less than $15,000,000 shall be used for inspec- erage. I can’t think of a clearer in- is what I have spent my life fighting tions of foreign seafood manufacturers and stance of victim-blaming than charg- for, and I won’t stop until we achieve field examinations of imported seafood’’ ing victims of sexual assault higher universal coverage for every man, after ‘‘Affairs’’. premiums because of the trauma they woman, and child across this great Na- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, for endured. tion. In 2018, voters are going to re- the information of all Senators, we ex- Then there is Mirnaly, who was 7 member who fought to protect afford- pect these votes to occur shortly after months pregnant when she suffered her able healthcare and who worked relent- 6 p.m. first stroke. Years later, she suffered lessly to undermine it. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- another stroke while caring for her au- With that, I yield the floor. ator from Wisconsin. tistic son. Without the Affordable Care The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- HEALTHCARE ator from Alaska. Act, insurance companies could deny Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I rise coverage to moms like her who have AMENDMENTS NOS. 3407 AND 3430 TO AMENDMENT today to join my colleagues because NO. 3399 had complicated pregnancies. this week marks the 1-year anniver- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I And of course there is 4-year-old sary of Senator MCCAIN’s casting the ask unanimous consent that the fol- Ethan, who is more concerned about deciding vote against the healthcare lowing amendments be called up en which dinosaur to play with than the repeal legislation. bloc and reported by number: Schatz I, too, voted against that legislation, pacemaker that is keeping him alive. amendment No. 3407; Kennedy amend- as I did on a number of very partisan Before the Affordable Care Act, chil- ment No. 3430. I further ask consent efforts by President Trump and con- dren like Ethan were blacklisted from that following the remarks of Senators gressional Republicans. I did so be- insurance companies for life. How do Baldwin, Durbin, Schatz, and Kennedy, cause the people of Wisconsin did not you tell a 4-year-old that his President the Senate vote in relation to the send me to Washington to take away no longer believes in protecting chil- Schatz and Kennedy amendments in people’s healthcare coverage. They dren like him? I wish my Republican the order listed and that there be no have consistently sent a clear message colleagues could answer that question second-degree amendments in order to that they want us to work across the for Ann, Mirnaly, and for Ethan—as a the amendments prior to the votes. party aisle to make things better and matter of fact, for all of us. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without not worse. Fortunately, the American people objection, it is so ordered. As I said throughout last year’s de- are smarter than the majority gives The clerk will report the amend- bate and have said to this day, the peo- them credit for. They know what is at ments by number. ple of Wisconsin want both parties in stake. They know who is responsible The bill clerk read as follows: Congress to work together to make for soaring prescription drug costs, for The Senator from Alaska [Ms. MUR- things better by stabilizing the health sky-high deductibles, for shrinking KOWSKI], for others, proposes amendments insurance market, making healthcare numbered 3407 and 3430 en bloc to amend- paychecks, and for soaring insurance more affordable, and taking on rising premiums. It is the people in charge. ment No. 3399. The amendments are as follows: prescription drug prices. The Republican Congress has had I strongly believe that if both parties ample time to deliver better, cheaper AMENDMENT NO. 3407 look past the partisan debate in Wash- health coverage to all Americans. In- (Purpose: To provide for a report on facilities ington, we can find common ground on stead, they have used every moment to of the Department of the Interior damaged by certain volcanic eruptions) solutions that work for the American try to force consumers to pay more for people. Each and every one of the less care. They have refused to protect At the appropriate place in division A, in- sert the following: healthcare repeal bills that were patients with preexisting conditions. pushed by the President and congres- They have shown zero interest in help- DAMAGE TO DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FACILITIES BY VOLCANIC ERUPTION sional Republicans faced opposition ing struggling families pay their bills. SEC. llll. (a) Not later than 60 days from the American people because all They have handed trillion-dollar tax after the date of enactment of this Act, the of them would have done the same cuts to big corporations and wealthy Secretary of the Interior shall submit to thing—they would have taken CEOs. Big old corporations aren’t using Congress a report on each facility and re- healthcare coverage away from mil- this windfall to raise wages. Health in- lated infrastructure of the Department of lions of Americans and made people surance companies aren’t using this the Interior damaged by a volcanic eruption pay more for less care. They would covered by a major disaster declared by the money to reduce premiums. Drug com- have gutted protections for those with panies aren’t using this money to lower President in calendar year 2018 in accordance with section 401 of the Robert T. Stafford preexisting conditions. They would prices. Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance have forced older adults to pay an age Republicans said the Trump tax cuts Act (42 U.S.C. 5170) (referred to in this sec- tax. They would have cut benefits for would grow paychecks and solve all of tion as a ‘‘covered facility’’). Medicaid for our most vulnerable peo- our economic problems. Thus far, cor- (b) The report submitted under subsection ple, like senior citizens and even our porations have spent $650 billion buy- (a) shall include— veterans. Put simply, this would have (1) an inventory of all covered facilities; ing back their own stock while work- taken us back to the days when insur- ers’ wages shrink in the face of soaring (2) a description of— (A) any closures of covered facilities; and ance companies set the rules. costs. Republicans promised the Sun (B) the estimated impact on visitorship to Wisconsin families and families and the Moon with these tax cuts, but covered facilities open to the public as a re- across our entire country let their here on planet Earth, we know that sult of a volcanic eruption; and voices be heard to the Congress, people trickle-down economics doesn’t work. (3) a plan— like Chelsey from Seymour, WI, whose In all my years serving the people of (A) to restore or replace covered facilities; daughter Zoe was born with a con- New Jersey, I have never seen a cor- and genital heart defect and had to have porate tax cut pay for a colonoscopy or (B) to restore visitorship levels to covered open heart surgery within 5 days of her cover a cancer patient’s prescription facilities open to the public to historic birth. Chelsey wrote to me and said: visitorship levels. drugs. (c) In preparing the plan required under ‘‘I’m pleading to you as a mother to Americans deserve real solutions subsection (b)(3), the Secretary of the Inte- fight for the . . . kids in Wisconsin that will protect their families from rior shall— with preexisting health conditions.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.048 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5256 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Together, we fought to protect the week, if the Affordable Care Act’s pro- in law school. God sent us a beautiful guaranteed healthcare protections that tections for people with preexisting little girl, and she had a very serious people depend on. Together, we fought medical conditions are struck down in medical problem. We were living here the repeal plans to cut and cap Med- court, Wisconsin is among a number of in Washington, DC, and didn’t have icaid, putting care at risk for everyone States that have the most to lose. Ac- health insurance. I want to tell you who depends on it, from a loved one cording to Kaiser, one out of every four that you have never felt more helpless who depends on Medicaid for nursing Wisconsinites has a preexisting condi- in your life than to be a new father care, to a disabled child who relies on tion, and they cannot afford to have with that brand-new baby who des- Medicaid funding at school. Together, the healthcare they depend on threat- perately needs medical care and not we fought repeal plans that would have ened. When I was a child, I was branded have health insurance. I will never for- increased the number of uninsured with the words ‘‘preexisting condition’’ get it as long as I live. I lived in such Americans. after a serious childhood illness. fear from that point forward of not Even defeating the legislative efforts I am going to continue fighting to having health insurance coverage that that would have made things worse for make sure that no family has to choose I did crazy things—getting health in- our families didn’t end the threat to between helping their child get better surance at two different places of em- the American people. President Trump or going bankrupt. Again, the people of ployment just to make sure I never has been trying to do what congres- Wisconsin did not send me to Wash- lost it. It scared me that much, and I sional Republicans couldn’t. He has ington to take away people’s still remember that fear. I wonder if been sabotaging our healthcare system healthcare, and I will continue my the people who are debating this issue by undermining the guaranteed health fight against these relentless efforts to about the Affordable Care Act ever protections and access to affordable make things worse for Wisconsin fami- lived through it themselves, because if care. He ended the critical cost-sharing lies. they did, they wouldn’t be standing reduction payments that make This issue is personal to me. I know here saying that we can do away with healthcare more affordable for almost it is very personal to the individuals the Affordable Care Act. 90,000 Wisconsinites. His administra- and families in Wisconsin. No parent, We know what happens if you elimi- tion again slashed funding to States for no grandparent, no foster parent nate the Affordable Care Act. Millions outreach efforts that help more people should lie awake at night wondering if of Americans lose their health insur- sign up for healthcare. Trusted navi- the healthcare they have for their child ance. Millions of Americans find health gator programs like those in Wisconsin today will be there tomorrow. That is insurance not affordable. Millions of have had their funding cut by nearly 90 why I will continue my work to protect Americans are desperate for protec- percent in the last 2 years. This will it. tion, no longer have it, and can’t ac- mean fewer people in rural Wisconsin Last year, the American people sent cess the most basic, quality healthcare will receive the support they need to a loud message to Washington. I heard that every American should expect. obtain affordable coverage. it. And they are sending the same sim- We had this debate. A new President President Trump’s sabotage of the ple message today: Protect our care. came in and said: The first thing I am healthcare market has created severe I yield, Mr. President. going to do is to get rid of ObamaCare, instability and already contributed to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The as- to get rid of the Affordable Care Act. a 36-percent premium spike in Wis- sistant Democratic leader. Well, the obvious question was this: consin this year. Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, it is in- Could he do it? This damage is not enough for teresting—I listened to my colleague It looked like he might be able to. Trump’s administration, as it has also from Wisconsin, which is my neigh- The Republicans controlled the House proposed a plan to allow insurance boring State, talk about her personal and the Senate, and when they were in companies to sell what we call junk and family experience with healthcare. the majority with a Democratic Presi- dent, at least on 50 or 60 different occa- plans that could increase costs and re- I think every one of us has a story—it sions, the House Republicans voted to duce access to quality coverage for is our own personal story—or knows abolish ObamaCare. somebody in our family who has a med- millions of Americans, harm people It was pointless because the Senate ical history, tells a story of whether with preexisting health conditions, and wasn’t going to take it up, and the force premium increases on older they had the proper care at the proper President would never sign that bill adults. These junk plans once again let time, whether the family could afford into law, but you knew what the senti- big insurance companies write the it. And then there is the big question: ment was. We are getting rid of it. We rules and could exclude basic care, in- Can you buy health insurance if you are getting rid of it. We heard about cluding hospitalization, prescription have a child with diabetes, if you have that year after year. We passed the Af- drugs, mental health services, sub- a wife who is suffering from cancer and fordable Care Act in 2010, and for year stance abuse treatment, and maternity survived? Can you buy health insur- after year all the Republicans could care. ance? say was this: Get rid of it. Get rid of it. It still does not end there. Legisla- The interesting thing—I bet the Sen- Then came that moment when, figu- tive repeal efforts and executive ator found this because I know she is ratively, the dog caught the bus, and branch sabotage have now moved to traveling all over her State of Wis- they had an opportunity to present on the judicial branch. Wisconsin’s Gov- consin—this issue doesn’t go away be- the floor of the Senate an alternative. ernor and attorney general sued to cause people’s worry over it doesn’t go What is it that you want to replace the strike down the entire Affordable Care away. They are worried about whether Affordable Care Act with? We said to Act last month. Last month, the they can afford to buy good health in- our Republican friends: You are elected Trump administration supported this surance. They are worried about to this body as legislators. Let’s see repeal effort by going to court to take whether they can afford to buy pre- your legislation. away guaranteed protections and raise scription drugs. It is that insecurity, It turns out that they didn’t have costs for Americans with preexisting that economic insecurity about any. They just wanted to make sure conditions. If the lawsuit succeeds, in- healthcare that really continues to ObamaCare was gone, but they couldn’t surance companies will once again be make this the biggest issue year in, find a replacement, and they couldn’t able to discriminate against people year out in America. answer the basic question as to how with preexisting conditions by denying I thank my colleague from Wisconsin they would provide health insurance— them coverage or charging exorbitant for telling her story and for really giv- or affordable health insurance—for the premiums. ing my speech. So I am going to con- millions of people who would lose cov- President Trump is threatening guar- dense it and just say a few things she erage. anteed and affordable healthcare cov- might not have touched on. And I I remember the night—it was early in erage for more than 133 million Ameri- thank her for her contribution earlier the morning it was—when we had the cans and over 2 million Wisconsinites today. vote—the vote—on whether to elimi- with preexisting conditions. In fact, as It happened in my life at a very early nate ObamaCare. Two Republican Sen- a Kaiser Health report made clear last age. My wife and I got married. I was ators had already voted with us, but

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.049 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5257 the critical third vote walked in that What are they thinking? Don’t they able healthcare—these are doctors—a door, and his name was JOHN MCCAIN. represent the same flesh-and-blood right to quality, affordable healthcare. He stood in that well and give a ‘‘no’’ Americans as everyone else? Don’t Second, they said there are programs sign with his thumb, and that was it. they represent families, as I do, and all that work, like Medicare, programs The Affordable Care Act lived for an- of us do, who have someone in their that people trust. other day. family with a medical history? I guess The premise behind Medicare is very Thank goodness he did it. Thank a third of American families qualify for basic. If you are of an eligible age, you goodness he and two of his colleagues that. Yet they want to say that those get health insurance. We make sure of had the courage to do it, to stand up people should be discriminated against. it. We guarantee to you that you are and say: If you can’t replace Why? Because of the misfortune they going to get quality care through a ObamaCare with something better, for had of being born with a congenital government-run insurance program. goodness’ sake, stick with it, fix it. birth defect or the problem they had There are a lot of Republicans who That didn’t happen. because they conquered cancer but al- would like to see Medicare and Med- After that vote, there was a deter- ways worry about its coming back. icaid go away, too, but America mined effort at every level of the These are the things that my Repub- wouldn’t. America believes in it. I be- Trump administration to do away with lican friends say: Well, that is the way lieve in the principle behind both of ObamaCare. If they couldn’t kill it on it goes. Good luck in the insurance those plans—that, as Americans, we the floor of the Senate, they were market. We are not going to protect should care for one another, give each going to kill it in many different ways. you. and every family a chance, and make They limited the period of time when They say what it is all about is certain that, at the end of the day, you signed up to renew your health in- choice. It is pretty easy to have good healthcare is not just a privilege for surance. They wanted to have fewer choices in life when you are healthy or those who happen to be wealthy. and fewer days available, hoping fewer wealthy. But if you don’t fit in those I yield the floor. and fewer people would take advantage two categories, your choices are ex- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- of it. tremely limited. People find them- ator from Louisiana. They eliminated the navigators, the selves with only bad choices if they are Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I want advisers who help people pick the right not healthy or wealthy and they don’t to talk for a second about an amend- health insurance plan. They didn’t have the protection of the law. They ment I have to the minibus appropria- want to give advice. They closed down find health insurance premiums they tions package. the telephones to the agencies, where cannot afford. When they find a pre- I am going to talk very briefly about people would call saying: Well, what is mium they can afford and start to look the amendment, but, first, I want to re- my right under the Affordable Care spond to some of the comments of my Act? at the health insurance policy, it turns friend the Senator from Illinois, for They did everything they could think out that it doesn’t cover much. whom I have great respect. I just dis- of to eliminate ObamaCare and make it They also find themselves in posi- more difficult for people to sign up for tions where, as I mentioned earlier, agree with him on this subject of the it, but still people signed up. Many peo- someone in the family has a medical Affordable Care Act, and I want to re- ple realized it was their only chance— history. The wife has a medical history spond briefly. Let me tell you what Republicans be- their only chance—to get health insur- and you can’t buy a family plan that ance. you can afford for the rest of the fam- lieve, at least most Republicans whom The Trump administration and Re- ily. That is the reality of the world the I know. Most Republicans I know be- publicans in Congress are determined Republicans envision us moving to. Oh, lieve what Americans believe, and that to this day to get rid of it, and they it may be some great economic market is that in our country, if you are hun- have a new approach. If they can’t kill model, but it doesn’t work in reality— gry, we feed you. If you are homeless, it outright in the Senate and they not in the reality of people who are we house you. If you are too poor to be can’t kill it by President Trump’s born with illnesses they have no con- sick, we will pay for your doctor. We in tweets, they are going to kill it in trol over and who spend their lives America, Republicans and Democrats, court. fighting them and need a helping hand. put our money where our mouth is. We Here is what they decided to do. The Affordable Care Act gave them spend $1 trillion a year helping people Twenty attorneys general, starting that helping hand. The Trump adminis- who are less fortunate than we are, and with Texas—and I see my friend from tration and Republicans in Congress that separates our country from every Texas on the floor; the leading attor- have been determined from the begin- other country in the world. ney general is from Texas—filed a law- ning to put an end to this protection, Frankly, that is why so many of our suit. Here is what they said. It is un- to eliminate health insurance for more neighbors across this great planet want constitutional to say that you cannot and more Americans, and to make it to come to America. It is because we discriminate against people because unaffordable for so many families. Is care about other people. I mean, when they have preexisting conditions. that why they ran for Congress? Is that is the last time you heard of anybody Now, those are three negative words. why they ran for the Senate—to go trying to sneak into China or Russia? So let me try to translate this Helsinki home and say: Well, sorry folks, but be- That is why they want to come to style into something you might under- cause of my principles, you don’t get America. stand. health insurance. You can’t afford the But when a government program, What they basically said is this: We health insurance being offered to you, though well intended, isn’t working, we don’t believe the Constitution can stop or you can buy a junk policy that just owe it to the American taxpayer to ex- an insurance company from discrimi- will not be there when you need it. plain to them why, and the Affordable nating against people with a medical Is that what America is all about? Care Act has not worked. I wish it had. history, and we are going to court to This is interesting to me, and I will I had the highest hopes. I remember prove it. And they have, with the sup- close with this. The Chicago Medical when the Senate debated it. Call me a port of the Trump administration. Society represents the doctors in the nerd, but I watched it on C–SPAN. I They are trying to find a way to greater Chicagoland area. I have come wanted it to work. We were promised: eliminate the protection of people with to know it. It is one of the best medical Look, as a result of this act, we are preexisting conditions so that they can associations in our State. It is more going to make health insurance acces- buy affordable quality health insur- progressive than most and more sible, and we are going to make it af- ance. thoughtful than most. I really salute fordable. What an amazing mission that is— them time and again. I said: Man, I will take a dozen of that these attorneys general and this They did a poll of their members, and those. We have been trying to do that administration want to find a way to they asked them: Where do you think for 50 years around here. Maybe this deny health insurance coverage to mil- this is going? time we will get it right. lions of Americans or make it so expen- Well, first they said: We believe that It was offered with the best of inten- sive that they could never afford it. people have a right to quality, afford- tions. You will never hear me criticize

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.050 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5258 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 President Obama for an act of patriot- quality control. They fish where they VOTE ON AMENDMENT NO. 3430 ism. He was very well intended. He are not supposed to. They ignore inter- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The wanted it to work. It wasn’t a question national quotas. They pump much of question now occurs on agreeing to of bad motives. It was just a bad idea. their fish full of illegal drugs, and they Kennedy amendment No. 3430. You know, 150 years ago, doctors don’t look out for the health of local Mr. CORKER. I ask for the yeas and used to bleed their patients with the ecosystems, as our domestic fisher men nays. best of intentions, but they stopped and women do. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a doing it because it was a bad idea. The result is dangerous. It is unsafe sufficient question? Now, we can do better. I agree with for the American people, and it is un- There appears to be a sufficient sec- the objectives from the Senator of Illi- fair to the American shrimpers who do ond. nois. Let me say it again that I have it the right way. The clerk will call the roll. great respect for him, but the Amer- I don’t want my family eating it. I The assistant bill clerk called the ican people deserve a health insurance don’t want my son eating it. I don’t roll. program that looks like somebody de- want my wife eating it. I don’t want Mr. CORNYN. The following Senators signed it on purpose, and that is not my dogs eating it. If the American peo- are necessarily absent: the Senator the Affordable Care Act. I wish it were, ple are listening, be careful if you eat from Missouri (Mr. BLUNT) and the but it is not. We can do better. it. Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). AMENDMENT NO. 3430 That is what my amendment does. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there Mr. President, let me hit a lick about With that, I yield the floor. any other Senators in the Chamber de- my amendment to the minibus appro- siring to vote? VOTE ON AMENDMENT NO. 3407 priation package, H.R. 6147. The result was announced—yeas 87, Here is the problem. We have a lot of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The nays 11, as follows: foreign seafood imported into the question now occurs on agreeing to [Rollcall Vote No. 167 Leg.] amendment No. 3407. United States, and some of it is very YEAS—87 Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. President, I dangerous. I am afraid to say that a lot Alexander Fischer Murphy of it is very dangerous. I am unhappy ask for the yeas and nays. Baldwin Gardner Murray to say that. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a Barrasso Gillibrand Nelson sufficient second? Bennet Graham Perdue Our FDA is in charge of making sure Blumenthal Grassley Peters that this foreign seafood is safe. It There appears to be a sufficient sec- Booker Harris Portman spends $11.9 million a year to do that. ond. Boozman Hatch Reed My amendment would give the FDA an The clerk will call the roll. Brown Heinrich Roberts Burr Heitkamp Rounds additional $3.1 million, and here is why The senior assistant legislative clerk Cantwell Heller Rubio it is important. called the roll. Capito Hirono Sanders Last year, the United States im- Mr. CORNYN. The following Senators Cardin Hoeven Schatz ported $21.5 billion worth of seafood— are necessarily absent: the Senator Carper Hyde-Smith Schumer Casey Inhofe Scott not million, but $21.5 billion. Now, the from Missouri (Mr. BLUNT) and the Cassidy Johnson Shelby FDA is supposed to inspect it to make Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). Collins Jones Smith sure that it is safe before you eat it. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Coons Kaine Stabenow Corker Kennedy Sullivan The FDA does the best it can, but they DAINES). Are there any other Senators Cornyn King Tester are only able, with the small amount of in the Chamber desiring to vote? Cortez Masto Klobuchar Thune money, relatively speaking, that it The result was announced—yeas 97, Cotton Leahy Tillis has, to test a very small sample, 2 per- Cruz Manchin Udall nays 1, as follows: Daines Markey Van Hollen cent. [Rollcall Vote No. 166 Leg.] Donnelly McCaskill Warner Ninety-eight percent of the foreign Duckworth McConnell Warren YEAS—97 seafood coming in is not even tested. Durbin Menendez Whitehouse Alexander Gillibrand Paul Enzi Merkley Wicker When it is tested, the FDA often finds Baldwin Graham Perdue Ernst Moran Wyden that it contains salmonella, it contains Barrasso Grassley Peters Feinstein Murkowski Young Bennet Harris listeria, it contains dirt, and it con- Portman NAYS—11 tains illegal drugs, like antibiotics. Blumenthal Hassan Reed Booker What does that mean? Hatch Risch Crapo Lankford Sasse Boozman Heinrich Flake Lee Shaheen Well, if you eat enough of the stuff, Roberts Brown Heitkamp Rounds Hassan Paul Toomey Burr Heller aside from the fact that you could grow Rubio Isakson Risch Cantwell Hirono an extra ear or glow in the dark, then, Sanders Capito Hoeven NOT VOTING—2 you develop a resistance to antibiotics. Sasse Cardin Hyde-Smith Blunt McCain If you eat bad seafood, particularly Carper Inhofe Schatz shrimp full of these antibiotics, and Casey Isakson Schumer The amendment (No. 3430) was agreed Cassidy Johnson Scott to. you get sick, you get an infection, Shaheen Collins Jones The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- maybe an abscessed tooth. You go to Coons Kaine Shelby the doctor, the doctor gives you anti- Corker Kennedy Smith ator from Arizona. biotics, and they don’t work anymore. Cornyn King Stabenow UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. RES. 583 Cortez Masto Klobuchar Sullivan Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, last Now, remember that we are only ex- Cotton Lankford Tester amining 2 percent of all seafood im- Crapo Leahy Thune week, the Senator from Delaware, Mr. ports. If you run the numbers, you will Cruz Manchin Tillis COONS, and I submitted a resolution see that barely 0.2 percent of seafood Daines Markey Toomey commending the Department of Justice Donnelly McCaskill imports are rejected every year. The Udall for its investigation into the inter- Duckworth McConnell Van Hollen Durbin vast majority, 98 percent, were not Menendez Warner ference by the Russian Federation in Enzi Merkley even checked. This isn’t just about Warren the 2016 U.S. Presidential election and Ernst Moran Whitehouse public safety, although that is cer- Feinstein Murkowski maintaining that the Russian Federa- tainly important. It is also about pub- Fischer Murphy Wicker tion should be held accountable for its lic policy. Flake Murray Wyden actions. Young As for American shrimpers, let me Gardner Nelson This simple resolution simply ex- tell you what they have to compete NAYS—1 presses support for our intelligence against in my State and in other Lee community, showing them we are be- States. They are being asked to com- hind them, we agree with them, we NOT VOTING—2 pete with foreign fishermen who are have trust in them, and we reject the unfairly subsidized by the Federal Gov- Blunt McCain words of a dictator, Vladimir Putin, ernment and who face little to no envi- The amendment (No. 3407) was agreed who denies that they interfered at all. ronmental regulations and little to no to. The resolution denies the words of a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.051 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5259 dictator, Vladimir Putin, who main- objected to again because it is unneces- I know I don’t need to remind my tains there was no Russian interference sary. colleagues that what defines us as a de- in the election. The Senate, the House of Representa- mocracy is free, fair, and open elec- Russian interference in the election tives, and our intelligence community tions that our people find credible. is not a debatable fact. This occurred. have all thoroughly investigated this Just this morning, the Department of We have evidence. Anybody who has matter. In fact, the Senate Intelligence Homeland Security publicly released seen simply what is public recognizes Committee has held 16 open hearings, that air-gapped control centers for that this happened. Any of us in this dating back to January of 2017. They utilities in more than 100 places across body who have sat through classified all found that Russia did, in fact, at- our country had been penetrated suc- briefings on this surely knows that it tempt to interfere in the U.S. election. cessfully by Russian military intel- happened. Forensic evidence digitally We all take that very seriously. ligence. and otherwise is simply not debatable. However, let’s be crystal clear. They The threat to our 2018 election con- The reason for this resolution is that also found there is no evidence this in- tinues to build, the clarity that we in Helsinki, it appeared our President terference impacted the outcome of the have been attacked in our 2016 election seemed to take the word of a dictator Presidential election in 2016 at all. continues to build, and the sanctions over the word of our intelligence com- This President and this body have that our President could be fully exer- munity. He later walked that back but consistently been tough on Russia. I cising were passed by this body by a then still later—the next day—again have personally cosponsored strong vote of 98 to 2 last summer through the talked about election interference as a sanctions on Russia and introduced Countering America’s Adversaries ‘‘hoax.’’ legislation condemning Russian mili- Through Sanctions Act. This resolution is nothing more than tary aggression around the world. We This resolution is simple. Because of simply to say it happened, we know it are currently debating additional eco- a lack of clarity at the Helsinki sum- happened, and we stand with our intel- nomic sanctions to hold Russia further mit between President Trump and ligence community, which has said accountable, and we will continue to do President Putin, it calls for prompt over and over again consistently that so as long as their nefarious activities hearings, the release of relevant infor- there was election interference. continue. mation and notes to better understand Last week, I cited George Orwell’s What we don’t need are more polit- the impact of what was committed to ‘‘1984,’’ where he said: ‘‘The party told ical distractions, and that is all this is. in that meeting in Helsinki, and the you to reject the evidence of your eyes Therefore, I object. full implementation of the sanctions and ears.’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- adopted by this body by a vote of 98 to Today our President said, what you tion is heard. 2. are seeing and what you are reading is The Senator from Delaware. Either we mean it or we don’t. Either not what is happening. Mr. COONS. Mr. President, I just we care about knowing what happened We need to let the agencies of gov- want to offer my response to the very in Helsinki or we don’t. Either we get ernment know we in the Senate stand disappointing renewed objection to the the threat to our upcoming election or behind them, that we understand there resolution that Senator FLAKE and I we don’t. In my view, we continue to was election interference, and by doing have attempted to move through this face threats to our elections and to our this—by knowing this—we can prepare body now twice. critical infrastructure, and it is long ourselves better for election inter- Last week, Senator FLAKE and I past time for Congress to work to- ference that we know is coming be- came to call on our Senate colleagues gether to secure our democracy. cause it is still in the works. to speak clearly in support of our intel- I will close by thanking my colleague As the Director of National Intel- ligence community, our Federal law and friend from Arizona for being a ligence Dan Coats said, ‘‘The red light enforcement community, and to state partner in this effort, for seeing clearly is blinking.’’ This interference oc- unequivocally that Russia’s attacks on what is happening, and for standing up curred, and it continues. So by know- our democracy will not be tolerated and asking this body to act. He gave, I ing the truth, then we can better pre- and that we will take action in a firm think, a haunting opening quote from pare for what is to come. and bipartisan and swift way. ‘‘1984.’’ Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- Some have said this is merely a sim- I am concerned that if our President sent that the Foreign Relations Com- ple or symbolic message. I say there thinks it is appropriate to invite Presi- mittee be discharged from further con- are powerful symbols that motivate dent Putin of Russia to meet with him sideration and the Senate now proceed our Nation, like our flag, and that, al- in our White House or in our Nation’s to S. Res. 583. I ask unanimous consent though symbolic, are substantive in Capital, that he may not yet fully get that the resolution be agreed to, the their consequences. the point. I am encouraged that Speak- preamble be agreed to, and that the After the narrow objection of one er RYAN and Majority Leader MCCON- motions to reconsider be considered Senator to this resolution last week, NELL said clearly earlier today that made and laid upon the table. we hear another objection tonight say- President Putin is not welcome in this The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ing what we should be focused on is Nation’s Capitol, in this building, in objection? confirming nominees and funding the the Capitol where this Congress meets. The Senator from Georgia. Federal Government. I, frankly, don’t I wonder what more it will take for Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, reserv- get the point. If this symbolic resolu- there to be clarity on the part of the ing the right to object, what we have tion, which calls on this Senate to act administration that President Putin is here is another distraction from what on hearings, on receiving notes, and on our adversary, has attacked our elec- we in this body need to be focused on imposing sanctions, in order to push tion, is a threat to our democracy, and today; that is, funding the Federal back against Russia’s attack on our de- should not be welcome in this Nation’s Government and confirming this Presi- mocracy—if we cannot find 2 minutes Capital as a whole. dent’s nominees. to adopt by unanimous consent this I call on my colleagues to support Right now, we have just 23 working simple resolution, then I worry that we this resolution, to stand with our intel- days, as a result of the way the Senate continue to have a problem. We con- ligence and law enforcement commu- operates, between now and the end of tinue to have a problem of lack of clar- nities and against this dangerous for- the fiscal year—just 23 days. Mean- ity about what actually happened in eign adversary, Russia. while, we have 329 nominees. These are 2016 and what may happen in 2018. Again, I thank and compliment my Presidential nominees waiting for this I will remind my colleagues, briefly, colleague from Arizona for joining me body to confirm them. We need to stay that President Trump’s own Director in this important effort. on track. of National Intelligence has warned With that, I yield the floor. This resolution is no more than polit- that Russia’s attacks on our digital in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ical theater. This resolution was pre- frastructure are ‘‘persistent, pervasive, ator from Arizona. viously objected to by Senator CORNYN and they are meant to undermine Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I thank just last week. It will continue to be America’s democracy.’’ the Senator from Delaware for his very

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.057 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5260 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 forceful articulation of the reason for Street Journal on environmental In response to Singer’s claim that ice this resolution. issues—issues such as acid rain and de- sheets are getting bigger, the actual Again, I repeat what was said by the pletion of the ozone layer and now, and climate scientists wrote: President today: ‘‘Just remember what for years, climate change. This edi- No, ice is not accumulating on Earth—it is you’re seeing and what you’re reading torial page has persistently published melting. No, Antarctica isn’t too cold for is not what’s happening.’’ editorials against taking action to pre- melting—warming oceans are eroding the ice Continually, the topic of election in- vent manmade climate change. from beneath, destabilizing the ice sheet. terference is being muddied and being In June 1993, the editors wrote that And no, legitimate scientific conclusions are further clarified and then further mud- there is ‘‘growing evidence that global not reached in op-ed pieces, but through careful peer-reviewed research. died. That is why it is important for warming just isn’t happening.’’ this body to stand up and say: We know In September 1999, the editorial page Climate denial, by the way, tends to what happened, and we don’t want it to reported that ‘‘serious scientists’’ call avoid peer review like the plague. It happen again. That is what this resolu- global warming ‘‘one of the greatest goes straight to FOX News, straight to tion is all about. hoaxes of all time.’’ If that is what hearings, and straight to the talk The Senator who objected noted that they are saying, I suspect that what shows, because there it gets the audi- we have a lot to do in Congress and we those scientists are serious about is the ence it wants without having to face can’t waste our time with resolutions money they get from the fossil fuel in- the rigor it would not survive. like this. If this simply passes, it is dustry. Singer also erroneously claims that done. We have stated what we came In June 2005, the page asserted that sea levels are not rising due to warm- here to state. But as it stands now, the link between fossil fuels and global ing temperatures. In response, Drs. since it has been objected to, we will warming had ‘‘become even more Mann and Dutton explain: bring it back. So if we are really con- doubtful.’’ This was June 2005, and the That research shows that sea levels are ris- ing and human-caused climate change is the cerned about the agenda for the rest of Wall Street Journal editorial page was questioning whether there is a link be- cause. Don’t take our word for it; help your- the year, let’s simply agree to it and self to the mountain of scientific literature let the intelligence community know tween fossil fuels and global warming? Even more recently, a December 2011 showing as much. When water warms, it ex- that we stand with them. That is what pands. When ice warms, it melts. To deny we are doing here. Why object to it? editorial said that the global warming these facts is not just to deny climate There is not one sentence in here, not debate requires what the page called change. It is to deny basic physics. one word that says anything about ‘‘more definitive evidence.’’ I guess But in the spirit of climate denial, whether the election interference by having essentially all the serious sci- there is very little that these denialists the Russians was dispositive, if it had entists in the world lined up on this is won’t say. any impact on the election. That is not not serious enough. The Trump administration’s own In October 2013, the editorial board of implied in any way by this resolution. ‘‘Climate Science Special Report,’’ the Wall Street Journal warned that in It simply states what is obvious, what issued by the Trump administration, addressing climate change, ‘‘interven- found that ‘‘it is virtually certain that the Senator who objected acknowl- tions make the world poorer than it sea level rise this century and beyond edged, which has been repeated again would otherwise be.’’ I guess if the will pose a growing challenge to coast- and again by this body, by the House world of Exxon shareholders is your al communities, infrastructure, and Intelligence Committee, and by every world, then it does make it poorer, but ecosystems.’’ The ‘‘Climate Science intelligence agency that we have. Be- in any real world, that just ain’t so. cause there was such a muddied state- You would think that as the evidence Special Report’’ will serve as the sci- ment in Helsinki, why not state once mounted over the past several decades, entific backbone for the Fourth Na- again here that we in the Senate know the Wall Street Journal editorial page tional Climate Assessment, which is what happened and that we stand with would have at some point woken up due later this year. The authors list is those in the intelligence community and begun to publish editorials based a who’s who of top university sci- who have brought this forward? on real science and data. To put it entists—many from universities in the With that, I yield the floor. mildly, that has not been the case. In- home States of Senators here in this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- stead, the editorial page has doubled body—and experts from NOAA, the ator from Rhode Island. down on climate denial. EPA, NASA, our National Labs, and Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, I Just last month, the Journal pub- the National Science Foundation. By ask unanimous consent to speak for up lished a piece titled ‘‘The Sea is Rising, the way, those NASA people have a to 15 minutes as in morning business. but Not Because of Climate Change.’’ rover driving around on Mars. They The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without This piece is riddled with readily fact- may know a little something about objection, it is so ordered. checked scientific errors, and it ig- science. The report is backed by the CLIMATE CHANGE nores all the legitimate science on cli- Departments of Agriculture, Defense, Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, I mate change and sea level rise. Not Energy, Commerce, Interior, and am here for the now 214th time to urge surprisingly, the author of this article, State—in all, 13 Federal Agencies and that we wake up to the effects of car- Fred Singer, is a notorious and long- Departments. Or you can believe the bon pollution on the Earth’s oceans, standing climate denier who has for editorial page of the Wall Street Jour- atmosphere, and climate. years been affiliated with or funded by nal and its phony baloney fossil fuel- One obstacle to action on the threat the Heritage Foundation, the Heart- funded scientists. that we face from climate change, how- land Institute, the Cato Institute, and The Journal actually continued its ever, is the manufactured doubt that so others. He has been funded by a rogues’ climate denial spree in June, pub- often surrounds this issue. We find this gallery of climate denial front groups lishing another piece titled ‘‘Thirty manufactured doubt a fossil fuel indus- that have themselves been funded by Years On, How Well Do Global Warm- try product—just as oil and gas are fos- ExxonMobil and the Koch brothers’ ing Predictions Stand Up?’’ In this one, sil fuel industry products—flowing network. Patrick Michaels and Ryan Maue argue even from the editorial page of one of Dr. Michael Mann and Dr. Andrea that Dr. James Hansen’s 1988 climate our Nation’s leading publications, the Dutton—both actual legitimate cli- change warnings were overestimated. Wall Street Journal. Whenever the mate scientists—wrote a response to Well, let’s start by pulling the cur- issue is harmful industrial pollutants, the Wall Street Journal. Their article, tain back on these two characters who the Wall Street Journal’s editorial titled simply ‘‘Water’s Rising Because wrote the piece. You will quickly see page has a long record of misleading its It’s Getting Warmer,’’ directly address- that they are, to put it politely, readers, denying the legitimate es the factual problems with Singer’s aligned with the fossil fuel industry. science, and even ignoring its own news piece. Patrick Michaels is a senior fellow at reporting, all to shill for the polluting Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- the Koch-founded and Koch-funded industries. sent that this article be printed in the Cato Institute. Michaels at one point A pattern of science denial repeats RECORD at the conclusion of my re- admitted that 40 percent of his funding itself in the editorial pages of the Wall marks. came from the fossil fuel industry. His

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.059 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5261 coauthor also joined the Koch-funded the industry with a massive conflict of being that grownup. They still pay for Cato Institute last year. interest about this question—it has denial and obstruction. The Wall Believe it or not, yes, the fossil fuel been 30 years since the warnings of Street Journal’s editorial page is obvi- industry still pays for this nonsense Hansen. Despite all of the evidence ously no use. That page is still yapping even as fossil fuel CEOs claim to recog- that has piled up, consistent with his on the industry’s leash. nize: Climate science is real, and we warnings, despite the regular litany of There is some good news. This week, support a carbon fee. That, of course, current events driven by climate two House Republicans, at long last, being the latest chapter in the fossil change now, Congress has been taking introduced a bill that would put a price fuel industry’s long and ongoing cam- no action. We have been stilled by the on carbon emissions. But we still await paign of fraud—now pretending that forces of the fossil fuel industry. one Republican in the Senate, just they support a carbon fee, when all of The real irony here is that the Wall one—anyone who will face up to this their political apparatus is dedicated Street Journal claims to be the news problem, who will stand up for science, to opposing the very result they claim source for businesses and financial in- who will acknowledge what their own to seek. vestors. Off the editorial page, out in home State’s universities are teaching Thirty years ago, Hansen’s testimony the real world of business and finance, and take some real action. Climate de- outlined three scenarios. Remember, real decisions are being made by real nial is a dangerous and ultimately this was 1988. The first scenario was a executives, backed by real money. doomed game, and the Wall Street business-as-usual projection with ac- Are they buying what the Wall Journal editorial page should know celerating emissions, yielding 1.5 de- Street Journal editorial page is sell- better. grees Celsius warming by 2017. The sec- ing? No. No, indeed. They are telling It is time to wake up. ond scenario showed drastic emissions their clients and their companies: You There being no objection, the mate- cuts, yielding 0.4 degrees Celsius warm- must take climate change seriously, rial was ordered to be printed in the ing by 2017. Hansen proposed a middle and you must take carbon pricing seri- RECORD, as follows: scenario of continued but not accel- ously. WATER’S RISING BECAUSE IT’S GETTING erating emissions, resulting in 0.84 de- In the real world, businesses are de- WARMER grees Celsius warming by 2017. In his manding better climate policies and in- MAY 22, 2018.—Would the Journal run the testimony, Dr. Hansen stated that the vestors are demanding better reporting op-ed ‘‘Objects Are Falling, but Not Because middle scenario was the most likely. of climate risk. The giant investment of Gravity’’? That’s pretty similar to climate Michaels and Maue claim that the firm BlackRock led a group of major contrarian Fred Singer saying The Sea Is scenario with the least amount of investors and broke the back of Rising, but Not Because of Climate Change’’ warming turned out to be correct, and ExxonMobil’s opposition to answering (op-ed, May 16). No, ice is not accumulating on Earth—it is therefore Hansen was wrong, and there- to its shareholders about climate melting. No, Antarctica isn’t too cold for fore climate models can’t predict cli- change. They are demanding this. melting—warming oceans are eroding the ice mate change. Unfortunately for them, Many companies are even setting their from beneath, destabilizing the ice sheet. the facts are otherwise. own internal price on carbon to ac- And no, legitimate scientific conclusions are Hansen’s analysis projected that count for the real-world costs of cli- not reached in op-ed pieces, but through global surface air temperatures would mate change. The business community careful peer-reviewed research. increase by approximately 0.84 degrees and the investment community are That research shows that sea levels are ris- Celsius between 1988 and 2017 in his acting because they know climate ing and human-caused climate change is the middle scenario, the one he said was cause. Don’t take our word for it; help your- change is real, is affecting their prog- self to the mountain of scientific literature most likely. Once you account for the nosis for their companies, and carbon showing as much. When water warms, it ex- effects of a slight cooling that resulted pricing is a key part of the solution. pands. When ice warms, it melts. To deny from the success of the Montreal Pro- Increasingly, economists and finan- these facts is not just to deny climate tocol in phasing out cial regulators warn that we are actu- change. It is to deny basic physics. chlorofluorocarbons, Hansen’s pro- ally hurtling toward an economic dis- New York City experienced an additional jected warming is 0.6 to 0.7 degrees Cel- ruption—that we need to prepare for a 25 square miles of flooding from the approxi- sius by 2017. possible crash of what they call the mately one foot of sea-level rise that has oc- That, in blue, is the adjusted Hansen curred due to human-caused warming. With- carbon bubble. This carbon bubble col- out concerted efforts to reduce carbon emis- projection. I don’t think you can fault lapses when fossil fuel reserves, now sions, it could experience as much as eight him for not predicting the Montreal claimed as assets by the fossil fuel feet by the end of the century—permanently Protocol that happened after his pre- companies, turn out to be useless as re- inundating most of Wall Street. diction. It is fair to adjust his pre- newable energy sources grow more ASST. PROF. ANDREA L. diction for the Montreal Protocol and competitive, and those useless assets DUTTON, the effect of reduced become what are called stranded as- University of Florida, chlorofluorocarbons. Once you do that, sets. How much gets stranded? Gainesville, Fla. it shows that observed temperature in A publication by economists in the PROF. MICHAEL E. MANN, Penn State University, red tracks pretty darned well with his journal Nature estimated the following University Park, Pa. projections. impacts in a 2-degree Celsius world: If that were my work, I would be ‘‘stranded assets . . . around 82 percent Fred Singer leaves out any real evidence to pretty proud of it. Here it is 30 years of global coal reserves, 49 percent of refute research attributing the measured later, and we are off by a gap that my global gas reserves, and 33 percent of sea-level rise almost exactly to the measured finger can cover on the graph. global oil reserves.’’ thermal expansion of seawater and glacier Michaels and Maue did not bother to Imagine that—82 percent of global melt. mention that Hansen also predicted coal reserves gone, wiped off the bal- SEN. SHELDON WHITEHOUSE (D., R.I.), which parts of the globe would warm ance sheets; 49 percent of global gas re- Newport, RI. more quickly than others. Thirty years serves gone, wiped off the balance Our emissions will continue shaping how ago, he calculated the Arctic would sheets; and 33 percent of global oil re- much seas rise in the coming decades. Tak- warm faster, and there would be more serves gone, wiped off the balance ing this threat lightly endangers hundreds of warming over landmasses than over sheets because they are no longer eco- communities in the U.S. and world-wide, and the oceans. All of these things are hap- nomically producible. wastes the dwindling time we have to reduce pening. Even Hansen’s early climate Is this nuts? Even the Bank of Eng- our risk by cutting carbon emissions and in- models were accurate and reliable. And land in an official statement has vesting in resilience. Since 1900, global sea global warming is proceeding, just as warned that investments in fossil fuels level has risen by seven to eight inches. Sea- level rise has brought more frequent flooding the scientists have warned. and related technologies may ‘‘take a to dozens of coastal communities, including As the Wall Street Journal editorial huge hit.’’ Atlantic City, N.J. and Charleston, S.C., page continues to publish its fossil At some point, there has to be a where the number of floods has quadrupled fuel-funded nonsense—stuff that is grownup in the room. The fossil fuel in- since 1970. The pace of sea-level rise has re- written by pseudoscientists, funded by dustry, obviously, is not capable of cently doubled.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.060 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5262 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Mr. Singer acknowledges there’s ‘‘good nations en bloc with no intervening ac- erans who fought in every conflict can data showing sea levels are in fact rising at tion or debate; that if confirmed, the get the healthcare, honor, and recogni- an accelerating rate,’’ yet makes the unsci- motions to reconsider be considered tion they have earned. entific claim that this is disconnected from made and laid upon the table en bloc; Since 2014, Montana veterans and rising global-warming emissions and tem- peratures. The risks are clear. Sea-level rise that the President be immediately no- their loved ones can choose to be bur- projections for 2100 range from one foot to tified of the Senate’s action; that no ied under the Big Sky in the Yellow- more than eight feet—far greater than the further motions be in order; that any stone National Cemetery—veterans six inches Mr. Singer claims. Swiftly reduc- statements relating to the nominations like COL John R. Black of the U.S. ing our global-warming emissions would give be printed in the RECORD, and the Sen- Army, the most highly decorated vet- us the best chance to minimize sea-level rise, ate resume legislative session. eran interred at the Yellowstone Na- but our current emissions trajectory makes The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without tional Cemetery, earned two Silver achieving the range’s low end more unlikely objection, it is so ordered. Star medals and two Legion of Merit each day. medals in his service to our Nation in KRISTINA DAHL, PH.D., The question is, Will the Senate ad- Union of Concerned Scientists, Oakland, CA. vise and consent to the Landsberg and the Korean and Vietnam wars; veterans Homendy nominations en bloc? like Captain Ralph D. Myer, a U.S. NASA disagrees with Prof. Singer. A Feb. The nominations were confirmed en Public Health Service Officer of the 13 paper notes: ‘‘Rising concentrations of bloc. Korean and Vietnam wars, is one of the greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere in- f highest ranking veterans interred at crease the temperature of air and water, the Yellowstone National Cemetery. which causes sea level to rise in two ways. LEGISLATIVE SESSION Montana will remember Colonel First, warmer water expands, and this ’ther- mal expansion’ of the ocean has contributed The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Black, Captain Myer, and all of our about half of the 2.8 inches (7 centimeters) of ate will now resume legislative session. citizens who fought during the Korean global mean sea-level rise we’ve seen over war. the last 25 years . . . Second, melting land f We will honor their memory by re- ice flows into the ocean, also increasing sea MORNING BUSINESS lentlessly fighting to get the veterans level across the globe.’’ of the Korean war the equal benefits Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask WENDY FLEISCHER, and care that they earned but are too unanimous consent that the Senate be Brooklyn, NY. often denied. in a period of morning business, with Some paid the ultimate sacrifice. Melting ice is not the only thing that can Senators permitted to speak therein Some returned home bearing the seen raise the sea level. Note the eruption of hun- for up to 10 minutes each. and unseen wounds of war. All showed dreds of undersea volcanoes in the oceans The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without and what they deposit. All of the rivers of courage and strength when they heeded objection, it is so ordered. the world flush millions of acre feet of mud the call to protect our Nation far from and silt into the sea floor daily. During an f home. We cannot forget their service undersea earthquake a tectonic plate could and sacrifice. override another, affecting a thousand miles MONTANA KOREAN WAR To Commander Klose, the Montana of sea floor, displacing a great deal of water VETERANS American Legion, my friends at the and raising the sea level. Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise DAVID DARLOW, Yellowstone National Cemetery, and Spokane, WA. today in honor of the Montanans who all those who dedicate their lives to Mr. WHITEHOUSE. I yield the floor. served our Nation during the Korean this country in service, on behalf of I suggest the absence of a quorum. war. myself, Montana, and our Nation, I ex- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Their service and sacrifice will for- tend my greatest thanks for your en- clerk will call the roll. ever be remembered in the official CON- during bravery, service, and self-sac- The legislative clerk proceeded to GRESSIONAL RECORD. Many of them rest rifice. call the roll. in peace in the sacred ground of the f Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask Yellowstone National Cemetery. unanimous consent that the order for During the Korean war, 6.8 million REMEMBERING GEORGE B. WILLIE, the quorum call be rescinded. Americans served between 1950 and SR. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without 1953. About 20,000 Montanans served in Mr. UDALL. Mr. President, I rise to objection, it is so ordered. the military during that time, and 5,000 honor George B. Willie, Sr., one of our f of them saw combat. We lost 350 Mon- last surviving Navajo code talkers, who EXECUTIVE SESSION tanans in Korea. passed away at age 92 on December 5, Today about 6,000 Korean war vet- 2017. Mr. Willie was a humble man who erans call Montana home. Survivors of never bragged and rarely talked about EXECUTIVE CALENDAR the ‘‘Forgotten War,’’ far too many of his uncommon feat. Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask them have struggled for far too long to Mr. Willie was born near Sawmill, unanimous consent that the Senate receive the recognition and benefits AZ. He was To´ Dı´ch’iı´nii—Bitter proceed to executive session for the en they truly deserve. Water—and born for Ta´ baaha´ —Near bloc consideration of the following As ranking member of the Senate The Water Edge—and resided near nominations: Executive Calendar Nos. Veterans’ Affairs Committee, it has Leupp when he passed away. 467 and 858. been my honor to fight for legislation Mr. Willie only had a seventh-grade The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without that rights this wrong. I have intro- education. He tried to enlist in 1941, objection, it is so ordered. duced legislation that extends benefits but was too young. He was finally able The clerk will report the nomina- related to toxic exposure to more vet- to join the Marines 2 years later, when tions en bloc. erans who served along the Korean De- he was 17 years old. He served the Sec- The bill clerk read the nominations militarized Zone. Because when serv- ond Marine Division, 10th Battalion, of Bruce Landsberg, of South Carolina, icemembers deploy to harm’s way and from 1943 until 1946. to be a Member of the National Trans- are exposed to toxic chemicals, our As a marine, Mr. Willie was one of portation Safety Board for a term ex- country has a responsibility to meet the 421 code talkers from the Navajo piring December 31, 2022; and Jennifer their healthcare needs. Nation. The original 29 Navajo code L. Homendy, of Virginia, to be a Mem- Honoring these veterans takes more talkers developed a code based on their ber of the National Transportation than just legislation; it takes dedicated native language. At that time, there Safety Board for a term expiring De- people who are committed to telling was no written language, and only cember 31, 2019. their stories and honoring those who about 30 persons outside of Tribal Thereupon, the Senate proceeded to have served. members understood Navajo. The code consider the nominations en bloc. The Montana American Legion, led talkers were required to quickly and Mr. ROUNDS. I ask unanimous con- by Commander Richard Klose, is an im- accurately translate and transmit mes- sent that the Senate vote on the nomi- portant partner working to ensure vet- sages about troop movements, tactics,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:40 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.063 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5263 and the like through telephone and The patriarch of the family, John nearly $6,000 and then, following a sec- radio. At first skeptical, military lead- carved out his slice of the American ond fire, and with the help of fire- ers quickly learned to appreciate their dream. After opening the Buick dealer- fighters working in the kitchen, a pan- skill and tremendous value to the war ship, the business eventually grew into cake breakfast that raised over $5,000. effort. The Japanese never broke their a series of enterprises, eventually em- Dianne said that these fires increased code. ploying a workforce of more than 200 awareness about an issue that is near While the Federal Government relied people. For six decades, he owned the to her heart, the lack of affordable on the Navajo language for military Deery Automotive Group, encom- housing in the Salem area. The funds success, back home, it continued the passing John Deery Motors, Dan Deery she helped raise are going to address longstanding policy of forbidding Na- Motors, and Deery Brothers Collision many of the challenges the victims of tive students from speaking their lan- Center that provided livelihoods for the fires will face, including relocating. guages at Federal boarding schools. generations of local families and a As she said, you can’t fix everything Mr. Willie served in the Battle of trusted place to buy and repair the with pancakes and spaghetti, but you Okinawa, one of the last and deadliest family car. can do what you can to help. battles of the war. In June 1945, the After turning the reins of the auto- Dianne reminds us all that some- Americans and the British Pacific mobile business over to the next gen- times helping your community is about Fleet took the island after 82 days of eration, John launched yet another being the person to take the first step battle. It was their last stop before the successful enterprise in real estate de- and voice the idea, and her efforts to planned attempt to take the Island of velopment. An active octogenarian, mobilize friends and neighbors to work Japan, which was preempted when the John didn’t let any grass grow under- together has made a difference United States dropped the atomic neath his feet and continued looking throughout her community. For her bomb on Hiroshima on August 6. for ways to make his community a bet- dedication to Salem, I am proud to rec- After coming home, Mr. Willie mar- ter place to live. A decade ago, he was ognize Dianne as July’s Granite Stater ried Emma Gean Willie, and they had nominated for the Waterloo Courier’s of the Month.∑ 10 children. The code talker program inaugural Eight Over Eighty Award. was secret, and the code talkers were The residents of Cedar Valley have f sworn not to tell anyone about their benefited from John and Marlene’s gen- REMEMBERING JACK POWELL work. Even after the Federal Govern- erous commitment to giving back their ∑ ment declassified the program in 1968, time, talent, and treasure. A number of Mr. JONES. Mr. President, I rise Mr. Willie continued to honor his nonprofit agencies and community or- today with deep sadness, but also with promise and did not tell family mem- ganizations have benefited from their reverence to remember Jack Powell, bers he was a code talker until almost philanthropic pursuits, including my who died on May 12, 2018. Jack Powell 30 years later. In 2001, Mr. Willie and alma mater, the University of North- was a beloved coach and educator in his fellow code talkers were awarded ern Iowa, the Black Hawk County Alabama. He was revered by his stu- the Silver Congressional Medal of Sheriff’s Office, the Cedar Falls and dents and players and often regarded as Honor. Waterloo police departments, St. Pat- a second father to many. Until his 95th Today I honor Mr. Willie, a true rick Catholic Church and School, and birthday, regular reunions were held by American hero. El Kahir Shrine. former high school players to honor Coach Powell and reminisce with f Today I pay my respects to this American veteran, successful Iowan, former teammates. His accomplish- ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS and civic leader. John Deery, Sr., ments on and off the course touched steered a steady and honorable journey thousands of lives. on the road of life and he will be great- Coach Powell was born on March 20, REMEMBERING JOHN G. DEERY, 1922, in Andalusia. He was one of 10 SR. ly missed by those who loved him the most.∑ children born to George Bennie and ∑ Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I Lilla Lawson Powell. He played basket- f come to the floor today to pay tribute ball in the State tournament for 3 to an outstanding businessman and cit- TRIBUTE TO DIANNE PAQUETTE years as a student at Pleasant Home izen John G. Deery, Sr., of Cedar Falls, ∑ Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I am High School. They went undefeated IA. Mr. Deery passed away recently at honored to recognize as July’s Granite during the regular season of his senior the age of 88. He leaves behind a close- Stater of the Month an individual who year. Coach Powell went on to Auburn knit and loving family—his beloved truly embodies the best of New Hamp- University to play for coaches Bob wife, Marlene; his two sons, John and shire’s all-hands-on-deck spirit, con- Evans, Ralph ‘‘Shug’’ Jordan, and V.J. Dan, both of Cedar Falls, IA; and a host sistently rolling up her sleeves and Edney. While at Auburn, he was a of children and great-grandchildren, helping her community, Dianne letterman 2 years in a row and cocap- nieces and nephews. Paquette of Salem, NH. tain of the team in 1946. A veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, Dianne’s efforts started with two ele- After his college career, he served as John was an active parishioner of St. mentary school playgrounds that need- an educator for approximately 40 years. Patrick Catholic Church and a re- ed repairs. She led efforts to raise He worked at Lockhart and Eufaula spected civic and business leader who money to repair the playgrounds be- high schools from 1947 to 1966, then left his mark throughout Cedar Valley. cause, in her words, ‘‘somebody has Livingston University, now the Univer- Following his military service—1948 to.’’ After she was successful in her sity of West Alabama, from 1966 to 1972, 1951—and startup ventures in the Quad fundraising efforts for the playgrounds, and finally at Sparks State Technical Cities and Wisconsin, John purchased a Dianne moved on to other town land- College in Eufaula until his retire- Buick dealership in the late 1960s in marks and was instrumental in raising ment. Cedar Falls. This Wisconsin native be- funds and gathering volunteers for sev- During his time as a high school came an Iowa transplant and never eral projects, including restoring the coach, he received several Coach of the looked back. From then on, he and his historic Salem Depot Train Station. Year Awards and won district, area, re- family business paved a road to pros- Dianne has formed a core group of gional, and State championships. He perity by winning the business of gen- friends—a group that she calls the Vil- coached three Alabama All-Star erations of satisfied customers. lage—made up of law enforcement offi- Games, including the inaugural game A look back through the rearview cials, firefighters, and Granite Staters in 1963. He served as coach to 11 All- mirror shows a life well lived. He was a who share her commitment to helping State players. While at Eufaula High member of the Cedar Falls AMVETS their community. Recently, Dianne School, his team went to the State Post 49, Iowa Auto Dealers Associa- and the Village have focused on helping tournament nine times, finishing in tion, Knights of Columbus, and a those in need after two separate apart- the top four positions. During his 20- founding father of Community Na- ment fires in Salem. She helped orga- year tenure, he amassed an impressive tional Bank. nize a spaghetti dinner that raised winning record of 406–193.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.060 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5264 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 When he entered the college coaching was a place to come and go, not a place fishing and exploring the mountains scene in 1966, he led Livingston Univer- to linger. surrounding it. In the year 1890, not sity to its first Alabama Collegiate Mort Plumb had another vision. He long after Montana was admitted to Conference championship and two con- foresaw the boom in tourism that the Union, the U.S. Government forc- secutive ACC Tournament Champion- would come to Alaska and believed ibly took him from his home at the age ships. In 1969, he was named ACC Coach that our State needed a gateway air- of 16. of the Year and in 1971 was again port as beautiful and inspiring as the George was forced to board a train to named ACC Coach of the Year, in addi- State itself. Mort was the father of to- Pennsylvania to attend Carlisle Indian tion to Alabama Small Colleges Coach day’s Ted Stevens Anchorage Inter- Industrial School. He was turned away of the Year and NAIA District 27 Coach national Airport. A showplace for Na- from his cultural practices, forced to of the Year. tive arts and crafts with huge picture cut his hair, and discard his traditional In 1992, after decades of hard work windows and vistas of the Chugach clothing. He was barred from speaking and commitment to teams, he became mountain range that cause our visitors his language. one of the first inductees in the Ala- to wonder whether they really want to George died under mysterious cir- bama High School Sports Hall of Fame. leave this unique place, a portal to the cumstances a little more than a year One of his greatest honors was having a Great Land. after he arrived in Pennsylvania—a for- gymnasium named after him in Mort’s vision has paid off; 2018 could eign land for a 16-year-old boy. The Eufaula, where it served as the home to be a record year for tourism in Alaska, government buried him in Carlisle. It Eufaula’s youth basketball leagues for and seat capacity on out-of-state took 128 years for George to rightfully many years. He also established a Tri- flights this year is up 5.6 percent. That return home to Montana, where he be- State basketball tryout clinic where translates into the opportunity for an longs, to be reburied. players came from Alabama, Florida, additional 43,000 visitors to enjoy what George’s ancestors laid him to rest Georgia, and Tennessee. As a result, Alaska has to offer. recently on a bluff next to Flattop Sadly, in February, Mort passed more than 60 young athletes earned Mountain, where his family can mourn away at the age of 74. Born in Pennsyl- scholarships to play in college. and our Nation can learn from this sad vania, he came to Alaska like many of Aside from teaching and coaching, chapter of America’s history. our finest do: in the service of our Coach Powell was an avid outdoorsmen I also want to recognize George’s country. He served 27 years in the Air who loved to fish, hunt, and garden. He family, including Dale Ell, Leon Chief Force, and we are indeed grateful that also served in his churches in both Elk, Rhonda Boggs, and everyone in- the Air Force chose to send Mort and Eufaula and Livingston. He was a Sun- volved, who were relentless in their his family to Elmendorf Air Force Base day school teacher for more than 50 quest to bring George back home. in Anchorage. As a colonel, Mort years in addition to serving as a deacon Their efforts are not only admirable, served as director of operations for the and chairman of the board for more Alaskan Command, chief of staff for but an essential part of the collective than 12 years. the 11th Air Force, and vice com- healing process. My wife, Louise, and I extend our sin- mander for the 11th Air Force. He re- The Ell family is just one of many cerest condolences to Coach Powell’s tired from the Air Force in 1994. Native American families who were two sons, five grandchildren, seven Mort’s retirement didn’t last long, as torn apart by this Nation’s horrendous great-grandchildren, and the entire ex- he was quickly recruited by Governor assimilation policies and the boarding tended community of athletes and fans Tony Knowles to direct the Ted Ste- school era. It is my hope that, as his on whom he made a positive impact. vens Anchorage International Airport. family lays George Ell to rest, we com- ∑ His legacy lives on in each of us. He took that job in 1995 and remained mit ourselves to a brighter future—a f until 2008. All told, he served under future where we celebrate the first peo- REMEMBERING MORT PLUMB three Governors: Democrat Knowles ple of this Nation, their culture, herit- and Republicans Frank Murkowski and age, religion, and strength. It is imper- ∑ Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, the Sarah Palin. Mort Plumb served with ative that we learn from the story of Ted Stevens Anchorage International great distinction. Mr. Ell, so the next generation is edu- Airport is buzzing with activity all After retiring from the airport, Mort cated about the suffering, so our kids year long. It connects our military was hardly done with his career. He and grandkids are inspired by his for- posted in Alaska with their families in took on new responsibilities as chief titude and the resilience of so many the Lower 48, welcomes business visi- operating officer of the First National other Native Americans. tors from around the world, and takes Bank of Alaska and continued to serve I rise today to honor those who were Alaskans to the Lower 48 for a weekend on a host of nonprofit boards. One of tested by cruelty; may their stories of cheering the Seahawks in Seattle, a his favorites was the Fisher House of resonate in our history and spur us to- shopping trip, or simply a break from Alaska, which cares for military fam- ward a stronger tomorrow.∑ the Alaskan winter. ily caregivers and veterans in town for f The Anchorage airport is the truly a medical appointments. Mort was active MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT crossroads for our friends in rural Alas- in the civilian and military community ka coming and going from meetings and was also an avid runner, golfer, Messages from the President of the and medical appointments in Anchor- and skier. He was a devoted husband, United States were communicated to age. Its gates are places where Alas- attending most every community event the Senate by Ms. Cuccia, one of his kans congregate—catching up with old with his wife, Ann, by his side. He was secretaries. friends or connecting with State legis- also a loving father and doting grand- f lators and an occasional U.S. Senator. father. EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED Look to the left as your plane pulls To his family and friends, know that into the gate, and you see cargo planes the legacy and service of Mort Plumb As in executive session the Presiding from around the world. The Ted Ste- will long be remembered. We appre- Officer laid before the Senate messages vens Anchorage International Airport ciate our friend Mort, and we miss from the President of the United is our State’s premier transportation him.∑ States submitting sundry nominations hub, a cargo hub of global renown. f and a withdrawal which were referred For most of my adult life, the An- to the appropriate committees. chorage airport was a pretty utili- REMEMBERING GEORGE ELL (The messages received today are tarian place. The walls were tan, the ∑ Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise printed at the end of the Senate pro- gate and baggage claim signs had white today to honor the life of George Ell, a ceedings.) lettering on a blue background. If you member of the Blackfeet Nation who is f were picking up a rental car, you rolled being remembered by his family, by his your bag through the snow because community, and by his Tribe. MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE most were parked outside. The return George was born and grew up on At 12:04 p.m., a message from the lot was outside too. But it worked. It Livermore Creek near Browning, MT, House of Representatives, delivered by

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.053 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5265 Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- bia, to make technical corrections to such Dingell-Johnson Federal Aid in Sport Fish nounced that the House has passed the Acts and related laws, and for other pur- Restoration Act, to provide parity for United following bills, without amendment: poses. States territories and the District of Colum- H.R. 5954. An act to amend title 18, United bia, to make technical corrections to such S. 2245. An act to include New Zealand in States Code, to clarify the meaning of the Acts and related laws, and for other pur- the list of foreign states whose nationals are terms ‘‘act of war’’ and ‘‘blocked asset’’, and poses; to the Committee on Environment and eligible for admission into the United States for other purposes. Public Works. as E–1 and E–2 nonimmigrants if United H.R. 5979. An act to establish the Mill H.R. 5979. An act to establish the Mill States nationals are treated similarly by the Springs Battlefield National Monument in Springs Battlefield National Monument in Government of New Zealand. the State of Kentucky as a unit of the Na- the State of Kentucky as a unit of the Na- S. 2850. An act to amend the White Moun- tional Park System, and for other purposes. tional Park System, and for other purposes; tain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantifica- H.R. 6077. An act recognizing the National to the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- tion Act of 2010 to clarify the use of amounts Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York. sources. in the WMAT Settlement Fund. f H.R. 6077. An act recognizing the National The message also announced that the Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York; to House has passed the following bills, in MEASURES REFERRED the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- which it requests the concurrence of The following bills were read the first sources. the Senate: and the second times by unanimous f H.R. 959. An act to amend title VIII of the consent, and referred as indicated: Public Health Service Act to extend ad- H.R. 959. An act to amend title VIII of the MEASURES PLACED ON THE vanced education nursing grants to support Public Health Service Act to extend ad- CALENDAR clinical nurse specialist programs, and for vanced education nursing grants to support other purposes. The following bill was read the first clinical nurse specialist programs, and for and second times by unanimous con- H.R. 1220. An act to establish the Adams other purposes; to the Committee on Health, Memorial Commission to carry out the pro- Education, Labor, and Pensions. sent, and placed on the calendar: visions of Public Law 107–62, and for other H.R. 1220. An act to establish the Adams H.R. 5954. An act to amend title 18, United purposes. Memorial Commission to carry out the pro- States Code, to clarify the meaning of the H.R. 1676. An act to amend the Public visions of Public Law 107–62, and for other terms ‘‘act of war’’ and ‘‘blocked asset’’, and Health Service Act to increase the number of purposes; to the Committee on Energy and for other purposes. permanent faculty in palliative care at ac- Natural Resources. credited allopathic and osteopathic medical H.R. 1676. An act to amend the Public f schools, nursing schools, social work schools, Health Service Act to increase the number of EXECUTIVE AND OTHER and other programs, including physician as- permanent faculty in palliative care at ac- COMMUNICATIONS sistant education programs, to promote edu- credited allopathic and osteopathic medical cation and research in palliative care and schools, nursing schools, social work schools, The following communications were hospice, and to support the development of and other programs, including physician as- laid before the Senate, together with faculty careers in academic palliative medi- sistant education programs, to promote edu- accompanying papers, reports, and doc- cine. cation and research in palliative care and uments, and were referred as indicated: H.R. 1689. An act to protect private prop- hospice, and to support the development of erty rights. faculty careers in academic palliative medi- EC–6014. A communication from the Direc- H.R. 2345. An act to require the Federal cine; to the Committee on Health, Edu- tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Communications Commission to study the cation, Labor, and Pensions. Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- feasibility of designating a simple, easy-to- H.R. 1689. An act to protect private prop- ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- remember dialing code to be used for a na- erty rights; to the Committee on the Judici- titled ‘‘Flonicamid; Pesticide Tolerances’’ tional suicide prevention and mental health ary. (FRL No. 9977–82–OCSPP) received in the Of- crisis hotline system. H.R. 2630. An act to authorize the Sec- fice of the President of the Senate on July H.R. 2630. An act to authorize the Sec- retary of the Interior to convey certain land 19, 2018; to the Committee on Agriculture, retary of the Interior to convey certain land to La Paz County, Arizona, and for other Nutrition, and Forestry. to La Paz County, Arizona, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and EC–6015. A communication from the Sec- purposes. Natural Resources. retary of Defense, transmitting a report on H.R. 3045. An act to amend the National H.R. 3045. An act to amend the National the approved retirement of Lieutenant Gen- Trails System Act to extend the Lewis and Trails System Act to extend the Lewis and eral Robert S. Walsh, United States Marine Clark National Historic Trail, and for other Clark National Historic Trail, and for other Corps, and his advancement to the grade of purposes. purposes; to the Committee on Energy and lieutenant general on the retired list; to the H.R. 3728. An act to amend title VII of the Natural Resources. Committee on Armed Services. Public Health Service Act to reauthorize H.R. 3728. An act to amend title VII of the EC–6016. A communication from the Sec- certain programs relating to the health pro- Public Health Service Act to reauthorize retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- fessions workforce, and for other purposes. certain programs relating to the health pro- ant to law, a six-month periodic report on H.R. 3994. An act to establish the Office of fessions workforce, and for other purposes; the national emergency with respect to ter- Internet Connectivity and Growth, and for to the Committee on Health, Education, rorists who threaten to disrupt the Middle other purposes. Labor, and Pensions. East peace process that was declared in Ex- H.R. 4100. An act to amend title 36, United H.R. 3994. An act to establish the Office of ecutive Order 12947 of January 23, 1995; to the States Code, to revise the Federal charter for Internet Connectivity and Growth, and for Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban the Foundation of the Federal Bar Associa- other purposes; to the Committee on Com- Affairs. tion. merce, Science, and Transportation. EC–6017. A communication from the Sec- H.R. 4881. An act to require the Federal H.R. 4100. An act to amend title 36, United retary, Securities and Exchange Commis- Communications Commission to establish a States Code, to revise the Federal charter for sion, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- task force for reviewing the connectivity and the Foundation of the Federal Bar Associa- port of a rule entitled ‘‘Rule 701 - Exempt Of- technology needs of precision agriculture in tion; to the Committee on the Judiciary. ferings Pursuant to Compensatory Arrange- the United States. H.R. 4881. An act to require the Federal ments’’ (RIN3235–AM39) received during ad- H.R. 5385. An act to amend the Public Communications Commission to establish a journment of the Senate in the Office of the Health Service Act to reauthorize the pro- task force for reviewing the connectivity and President of the Senate on July 20, 2018; to gram of payments to children’s hospitals technology needs of precision agriculture in the Committee on Banking, Housing, and that operate graduate medical education the United States; to the Committee on Urban Affairs. programs, and for other purposes. Commerce, Science, and Transportation. EC–6018. A communication from the Direc- H.R. 5613. An act to designate the Quindaro H.R. 5613. An act to designate the Quindaro tor of the Regulatory Management Division, Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a Na- Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, as a Na- Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- tional Commemorative Site. tional Commemorative Site, and for other ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- H.R. 5709. An act to amend the Commu- purposes; to the Committee on Energy and titled ‘‘National Emission Standards for Haz- nications Act of 1934 to provide for enhanced Natural Resources. ardous Air Pollutants From the Portland Ce- penalties for pirate radio, and for other pur- H.R. 5709. An act to amend the Commu- ment Manufacturing Industry Residual Risk poses. nications Act of 1934 to provide for enhanced and Technology Review’’ (FRL No. 9981–06– H.R. 5875. An act to amend the Pittman- penalties for pirate radio, and for other pur- OAR) received in the Office of the President Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the poses; to the Committee on Commerce, of the Senate on July 19, 2018; to the Com- Dingell-Johnson Federal Aid in Sport Fish Science, and Transportation. mittee on Environment and Public Works. Restoration Act, to provide parity for United H.R. 5875. An act to amend the Pittman- EC–6019. A communication from the Direc- States territories and the District of Colum- Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the tor of the Regulatory Management Division,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.013 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5266 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- 23, 2018; to the Committee on Health, Edu- Air Force nomination of Lt. Gen. Kenneth ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- cation, Labor, and Pensions. S. Wilsbach, to be Lieutenant General. titled ‘‘Approval of California Plan Revi- EC–6026. A communication from the Chair- Army nomination of Lt. Gen. Stephen M. sions; Northern Sonoma County Air Pollu- man of the Council of the District of Colum- Twitty, to be Lieutenant General. tion Control District; Stationary Source bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Marine Corps nomination of Lt. Gen. Gary Permits’’ (FRL No. 9981–01–Region 9) re- on D.C. Act 22–411, ‘‘All-Terrain Vehicle L. Thomas, to be General. ceived in the Office of the President of the Clarification Temporary Amendment Act of Air Force nomination of Col. Susan J. Senate on July 19, 2018; to the Committee on 2018’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- Pietrykowski, to be Brigadier General. Environment and Public Works. rity and Governmental Affairs. Air Force nomination of Maj. Gen. Jon T. EC–6020. A communication from the Direc- EC–6027. A communication from the Chair- Thomas, to be Lieutenant General. tor of Congressional Affairs, Office of Nu- man of the Council of the District of Colum- Army nominations beginning with Col. clear Material Safety and Safeguards, Nu- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Gregory K. Anderson and ending with Col. clear Regulatory Commission, transmitting, on D.C. Act 22–412, ‘‘Attorney General Lim- Todd R. Wasmund, which nominations were pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ited Grant-Making Authority Temporary received by the Senate and appeared in the ‘‘Consolidated Guidance About Materials Li- Amendment Act of 2018’’; to the Committee Congressional Record on July 10, 2018. censes: Program-Specific Guidance About Li- on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Army nomination of Maj. Gen. James F. censes Authorizing Distribution to General fairs. Pasquarette, to be Lieutenant General. Licensees’’ (NUREG–1556, Volume 16, Revi- EC–6028. A communication from the Acting sion 1) received during adjournment of the Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legis- Mr. WICKER for Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. Senate in the Office of the President of the lative Affairs, Department of Justice, trans- President, for the Committee on Armed Senate on July 20, 2018; to the Committee on mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to Services I report favorably the fol- Environment and Public Works. the Bureau of Prisons’ compliance with the lowing nomination lists which were EC–6021. A communication from the Direc- privatization requirements of the National printed in the RECORDS on the dates in- tor of Congressional Affairs, Office of Nu- Capital Revitalization and Self-Government dicated, and ask unanimous consent, to clear Material Safety and Safeguards, Nu- Improvement Act of 1997; to the Committee clear Regulatory Commission, transmitting, save the expense of reprinting on the on the Judiciary. Executive Calendar that these nomina- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled EC–6029. A communication from the Direc- ‘‘Consolidated Guidance About Materials Li- tor, Office of Regulation Policy and Manage- tions lie at the Secretary’s desk for the censes: Program-Specific Guidance About ment, Department of Veterans Affairs, trans- information of Senators. Well Logging, Tracer, and Field Flood Study mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Licenses’’ (NUREG–1556, Volume 14, Revision entitled ‘‘Third Party Billing for Medical objection, it is so ordered. 1) received during adjournment of the Senate Care Provided under Special Treatment Au- Air Force nominations beginning with Jac- in the Office of the President of the Senate thorities’’ (RIN2900–AP20) received in the Of- queline E. Berry and ending with Connie L. on July 20, 2018; to the Committee on Envi- fice of the President of the Senate on July Winik, which nominations were received by ronment and Public Works. 19, 2018; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- the Senate and appeared in the Congres- EC–6022. A communication from the Direc- fairs. sional Record on February 8, 2018. tor of Congressional Affairs, Office of Nu- EC–6030. A communication from the Direc- clear Reactor Regulation, Nuclear Regu- Air Force nominations beginning with An- tor, Office of Regulation Policy and Manage- thony J. Aceto and ending with Regis C. latory Commission, transmitting, pursuant ment, Department of Veterans Affairs, trans- to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Final Zozo, which nominations were received by mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule the Senate and appeared in the Congres- Safety Evaluation of Technical Specifica- entitled ‘‘Fiduciary Activities’’ (RIN2900– tions Task Force Traveler TSTF–567, Revi- sional Record on June 18, 2018. AO53) received in the Office of the President Air Force nominations beginning with Mi- sion 1, Add Containment Sump TS to Ad- of the Senate on July 23, 2018; to the Com- dress GSI–191 Issues’’ (NUREG–1430, NUREG– chael A. Basso-Williams and ending with mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. Irshad A. Shakir, which nominations were 1431, and NUREG–1432) received during ad- EC–6031. A communication from the Chief journment of the Senate in the Office of the received by the Senate and appeared in the of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- Congressional Record on June 25, 2018. President of the Senate on July 20, 2018; to tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to the Committee on Environment and Public Air Force nomination of Vikhyat S. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Amend- Bebarta, to be Colonel. Works. ment of Section 73.202(b), Table of Allot- EC–6023. A communication from the Assist- Air Force nominations beginning with ments, FM Broadcast Stations (Connerville, Mary F. Stuever and ending with Lavanya ant Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Depart- Oklahoma)’’ (MB Docket No. 18–43) received ment of State, transmitting, pursuant to Viswanathan, which nominations were re- in the Office of the President of the Senate ceived by the Senate and appeared in the section 36(d) of the Arms Export Control Act, on July 23, 2018; to the Committee on Com- the certification of a proposed license for the Congressional Record on June 25, 2018. merce, Science, and Transportation. Air Force nominations beginning with export of defense articles, including tech- EC–6032. A communication from the Dep- Kathleen E. Aalderink and ending with Isa- nical data, and defense services for the man- uty Chief, Wireless Telecommunications Bu- iah S. Zyduck, which nominations were re- ufacture of significant military equipment reau, Federal Communications Commission, ceived by the Senate and appeared in the abroad to Japan to support the manufacture transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of Congressional Record on June 28, 2018. of Drogue Rocket Motor and Propellant for a rule entitled ‘‘Amendment of Parts 1 and 22 Air Force nomination of Nisha R. Baur, to end use in aircraft ejection seats for the Jap- of the Commission’s Rules with Regard to be Major. anese Ministry of Defense (Transmittal No. the Cellular Service, Including Changes in Air Force nomination of Jay T. DDTC 18–010); to the Committee on Foreign Licensing of Unserved Area, et al.’’ ((WT Flottmann, to be Colonel. Relations. Docket No. 12–40, 10–112, and 16–138) (FCC 18– Air Force nomination of Christopher P. EC–6024. A communication from the Acting 92)) received in the Office of the President of Wherthey, to be Major. Assistant Secretary for International Orga- the Senate on July 23, 2018; to the Com- Air Force nomination of Issa M. Alvarez, nization Affairs, Department of State, trans- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- to be Major. mitting, pursuant to law, a report certifying tation. for fiscal year 2018 that no United Nations Air Force nomination of Nathaniel P. agency or United Nations affiliated agency f Lisenbee, to be Major. grants any official status, accreditation, or EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF Air Force nomination of Sean P. recognition to any organization which pro- COMMITTEES Malanowski, to be Major. motes and condones or seeks the legalization Air Force nominations beginning with of pedophilia, or which includes as a sub- The following executive reports of James W. Barnes and ending with Bradley A. sidiary or member any such organization; to nominations were submitted: Wisler, which nominations were received by the Committee on Foreign Relations. By Mr. WICKER for Mr. MCCAIN for the the Senate and appeared in the Congres- EC–6025. A communication from the Dep- Committee on Armed Services. sional Record on July 9, 2018. uty Assistant General Counsel for Regu- Army nomination of Lt. Gen. Stephen R. Air Force nominations beginning with latory Services, Office of Postsecondary Edu- Lyons, to be General. Adam D. Aasen and ending with George E. cation, Department of Education, transmit- Air Force nomination of Maj. Gen. Brian Quint, which nominations were received by ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- T. Kelly, to be Lieutenant General. the Senate and appeared in the Congres- titled ‘‘Student Assistance General Provi- Air Force nomination of Lt. Gen. Mark D. sional Record on July 9, 2018. sions, Federal Perkins Loan Program, Fed- Kelly, to be Lieutenant General. Army nomination of Alexis N. eral Family Education Loan Program, Wil- Air Force nomination of Col. Timothy J. Mendozadejesus, to be Major. liam D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, Madden, to be Brigadier General. Army nominations beginning with Samuel and Teacher Education Assistance for Col- Air Force nomination of Lt. Gen. Jeffrey B. Albahari and ending with Riccardo C. lege and Higher Education Grant Program; L. Harrigian, to be Lieutenant General. Paggett, which nominations were received Corrections’’ (RIN1840–AD28) received in the Air Force nomination of Maj. Gen. Thomas by the Senate and appeared in the Congres- Office of the President of the Senate on June A. Bussiere, to be Lieutenant General. sional Record on June 20, 2018.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.016 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5267 Army nominations beginning with By Ms. MURKOWSKI for the Committee on SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND Johnmark R. Ardiente and ending with Na- Energy and Natural Resources. SENATE RESOLUTIONS than A. Gunter, which nominations were re- Teri L. Donaldson, of Texas, to be Inspec- ceived by the Senate and appeared in the tor General of the Department of Energy. The following concurrent resolutions Congressional Record on June 20, 2018. *Christopher Fall, of Virginia, to be Direc- and Senate resolutions were read, and Army nominations beginning with Ryan J. tor of the Office of Science, Department of referred (or acted upon), as indicated: Berglin and ending with James A. Nardelli, Energy. By Mr. MERKLEY: which nominations were received by the Sen- *Karen S. Evans, of West Virginia, to be an S. Res. 588. A resolution expressing the ate and appeared in the Congressional Assistant Secretary of Energy (Cybersecu- sense of the Senate regarding the need for Record on June 20, 2018. rity, Energy Security and Emergency Re- transparency regarding meetings between Army nominations beginning with David sponse). President Donald J. Trump and Russian L. Burrier and ending with William T. *Daniel Simmons, of Virginia, to be an As- President Vladimir Putin; to the Committee Cigich, which nominations were received by sistant Secretary of Energy (Energy Effi- on Foreign Relations. the Senate and appeared in the Congres- ciency and Renewable Energy). By Mr. ENZI (for himself, Ms. sional Record on June 20, 2018. *Nomination was reported with rec- HEITKAMP, Mr. RISCH, Mr. MERKLEY, Army nomination of Joshua V. Arndt, to Mr. HOEVEN, Mr. CRAPO, Mr. THUNE, be Major. ommendation that it be confirmed sub- ject to the nominee’s commitment to Mr. INHOFE, Mr. BARRASSO, Mr. Army nominations beginning with Chris- TESTER, Mr. UDALL, Mr. ROUNDS, Mr. respond to requests to appear and tes- topher Z. Farrington and ending with Mi- BENNET, Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, and Mr. chael P. Thomas, which nominations were tify before any duly constituted com- HELLER): received by the Senate and appeared in the mittee of the Senate. S. Res. 589. A resolution designating July Congressional Record on June 20, 2018. (Nominations without an asterisk 28, 2018, as ‘‘National Day of the American Army nomination of Roderick W. Sumpter, were reported with the recommenda- Cowboy’’; considered and agreed to. to be Major. By Mr. HATCH (for himself, Mr. LEE, Army nomination of Daniel Torres, to be tion that they be confirmed.) Mr. CRAPO, Mr. RISCH, Mr. FLAKE, Major. f Mr. HELLER, and Mr. UDALL): Army nominations beginning with Michael S. Res. 590. A resolution recognizing the P. Antecki, Jr. and ending with D014175, INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS 171st anniversary of the arrival of pioneers which nominations were received by the Sen- belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of ate and appeared in the Congressional The following bills and joint resolu- Latter-day Saints to the Great Salt Lake Record on June 20, 2018. tions were introduced, read the first Valley in Utah, and the contributions of the Army nominations beginning with Lisa M. Church and its members to the United States Abel and ending with D014651, which nomina- and second times by unanimous con- and the world; considered and agreed to. tions were received by the Senate and ap- sent, and referred as indicated: By Ms. COLLINS (for herself, Mr. peared in the Congressional Record on June By Mr. HATCH (for himself and Mr. MANCHIN, Mr. TESTER, Ms. WARREN, 20, 2018. RUBIO): Mr. MARKEY, Ms. BALDWIN, Mrs. Army nominations beginning with Drew Q. S. 3256. A bill to support businesses in HYDE-SMITH, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. Abell and ending with G010393, which nomi- Puerto Rico, extend child tax credits for PETERS, Mr. BOOZMAN, Ms. SMITH, nations were received by the Senate and ap- families in Puerto Rico, and for other pur- Mr. MERKLEY, Mrs. ERNST, Mr. peared in the Congressional Record on June poses; to the Committee on Finance. INHOFE, Mr. THUNE, Mr. MORAN, Mr. 20, 2018. By Mr. CRUZ (for himself, Mr. DON- DAINES, Mr. ROUNDS, Mr. RUBIO, Mr. Army nominations beginning with Eli S. NELLY, Mr. CORNYN, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, YOUNG, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. NELSON, Adams and ending with D014147, which nomi- Mr. SCOTT, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. RUBIO, nations were received by the Senate and ap- Mr. DONNELLY, and Mrs. FEINSTEIN): and Mr. PERDUE): S. Res. 591. A resolution supporting the peared in the Congressional Record on June S. 3257. A bill to impose sanctions on for- goals and ideals of National Purple Heart 20, 2018. eign persons responsible for serious viola- Recognition Day; considered and agreed to. Army nomination of Rochell A. Maier, to tions of international law regarding the pro- be Colonel. tection of civilians during armed conflict, f Army nomination of Robert C. Soper, to be and for other purposes; to the Committee on ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS Colonel. Foreign Relations. Army nominations beginning with By Ms. HEITKAMP: S. 339 Vincente G. Alcivar and ending with Edward S. 3258. A bill to amend the Trade Act of At the request of Mr. NELSON, the W. Wright, which nominations were received 1974 to provide adjustment assistance to name of the Senator from Maryland by the Senate and appeared in the Congres- farmers adversely affected by reduced ex- (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor sional Record on June 25, 2018. ports resulting from tariffs imposed as retal- of S. 339, a bill to amend title 10, Army nomination of Benjamin E. Solomon, iation for United States tariff increases, and to be Colonel. United States Code, to repeal the re- for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- quirement for reduction of survivor an- Army nominations beginning with William nance. J. Nels and ending with Kellie A. By Mr. SULLIVAN (for himself, Mr. nuities under the Survivor Benefit Whittlinger, which nominations were re- DAINES, Mr. FLAKE, Ms. MURKOWSKI, Plan by veterans’ dependency and in- ceived by the Senate and appeared in the Mr. RISCH, and Mr. HELLER): demnity compensation, and for other Congressional Record on June 28, 2018. S. 3259. A bill to increase the number of purposes. Army nominations beginning with judgeships for the United States Court of Ap- Vendeck M. Davis and ending with Ryan G. S. 515 peals for the Ninth Circuit and certain dis- Lavoie, which nominations were received by At the request of Mr. CASEY, the trict courts of the United States, and for the Senate and appeared in the Congres- name of the Senator from Connecticut other purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- sional Record on June 28, 2018. diciary. (Mr. MURPHY) was added as a cosponsor Army nominations beginning with Harry By Mr. CASEY (for himself, Ms. HAS- of S. 515, a bill to require the Secretary A. Hornbuckle and ending with Michael J. SAN, Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, of Labor to maintain a publicly avail- Kimball, which nominations were received and Ms. KLOBUCHAR): able list of all employers that relocate by the Senate and appeared in the Congres- S. 3260. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- sional Record on June 28, 2018. a call center overseas, to make such Army nominations beginning with Mat- enue Code of 1986 to include individuals re- companies ineligible for Federal grants thew W. Allen and ending with Francis E. ceiving Social Security Disability Insurance or guaranteed loans, and to require dis- Sanford, Jr., which nominations were re- benefits under the work opportunity credit, closure of the physical location of busi- increase the work opportunity credit for vo- ceived by the Senate and appeared in the ness agents engaging in customer serv- Congressional Record on July 9, 2018. cational rehabilitation referrals, qualified SSI recipients, and qualified SSDI recipi- ice communications, and for other pur- Army nomination of Brian C. Morgan, to poses. be Major. ents, expand the disabled access credit, and Navy nomination of Travis A. Montplaisir, enhance the deduction for expenditures to S. 545 to be Commander. remove architectural and transportation At the request of Mr. PAUL, the name Navy nomination of Ariana P. Bensusan, to barriers to the handicapped and elderly; to of the Senator from Colorado (Mr. be Lieutenant Commander. the Committee on Finance. GARDNER) was added as a cosponsor of Navy nomination of Bruce S. Kimbrell, Jr., By Mr. CASEY (for himself and Ms. S. 545, a bill to preserve and protect the to be Lieutenant Commander. HASSAN): Navy nomination of Samantha C. Dugan, S. 3261. A bill to establish the Office of Dis- free choice of individual employees to to be Lieutenant Commander. ability Policy in the legislative branch; to form, join, or assist labor organiza- Navy nomination of Brian L. Lees, to be the Committee on Homeland Security and tions, or to refrain from such activi- Lieutenant Commander. Governmental Affairs. ties.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.018 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5268 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 S. 720 1353, a bill to require States to auto- health plans do not prohibit pharmacy At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the matically register eligible voters to providers from providing certain infor- name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. vote in elections for Federal offices, mation to enrollees. KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. and for other purposes. S. 2578 720, a bill to amend the Export Admin- S. 1437 At the request of Mr. SCHATZ, the istration Act of 1979 to include in the At the request of Mrs. GILLIBRAND, name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. prohibitions on boycotts against allies the name of the Senator from Maine KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. of the United States boycotts fostered (Mr. KING) was added as a cosponsor of 2578, a bill to amend title 13, United by international governmental organi- S. 1437, a bill to modernize voter reg- States Code, to require the Secretary zations against Israel and to direct the istration, promote access to voting for of Commerce to provide advanced no- Export-Import Bank of the United individuals with disabilities, protect tice to Congress before changing any States to oppose boycotts against the ability of individuals to exercise questions on the decennial census, and Israel, and for other purposes. the right to vote in elections for Fed- for other purposes. S. 794 eral office, and for other purposes. S. 2780 At the request of Mr. ISAKSON, the S. 1580 At the request of Mr. GARDNER, the name of the Senator from Kentucky At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the name of the Senator from Nebraska (Mr. PAUL) was added as a cosponsor of names of the Senator from Pennsyl- (Mr. SASSE) was added as a cosponsor S. 794, a bill to amend title XVIII of the vania (Mr. CASEY) and the Senator of S. 2780, a bill to require a determina- Social Security Act in order to im- from Connecticut (Mr. MURPHY) were tion on designation of the Russian Fed- prove the process whereby Medicare ad- added as cosponsors of S. 1580, a bill to eration as a state sponsor of terrorism. ministrative contractors issue local enhance the transparency, improve the S. 2796 coverage determinations under the coordination, and intensify the impact At the request of Mr. TESTER, the Medicare program, and for other pur- of assistance to support access to pri- names of the Senator from Maryland poses. mary and secondary education for dis- (Mr. VAN HOLLEN) and the Senator S. 811 placed children and persons, including from Maine (Mr. KING) were added as At the request of Mr. ENZI, the name women and girls, and for other pur- cosponsors of S. 2796, a bill to authorize of the Senator from South Dakota (Mr. poses. the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ROUNDS) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 1989 use the authority of the Secretary to 811, a bill to ensure that organizations At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the conduct and support research on the ef- with religious or moral convictions are name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. ficacy and safety of medicinal can- allowed to continue to provide services KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. nabis, and for other purposes. for children. 1989, a bill to enhance transparency S. 2945 S. 821 and accountability for online political At the request of Mr. YOUNG, the At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the advertisements by requiring those who name of the Senator from Minnesota name of the Senator from Arkansas purchase and publish such ads to dis- (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) was added as a co- (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor close information about the advertise- sponsor of S. 2945, a bill to authorize of S. 821, a bill to promote access for ments to the public, and for other pur- the Secretary of Housing and Urban United States officials, journalists, and poses. Development to carry out a housing other citizens to Tibetan areas of the S. 2076 choice voucher mobility demonstration People’s Republic of China, and for At the request of Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, to encourage families receiving the other purposes. the name of the Senator from New Jer- voucher assistance to move to lower- S. 1023 sey (Mr. MENENDEZ) was added as a co- poverty areas and expand access to op- At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the sponsor of S. 2076, a bill to amend the portunity areas. name of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. Public Health Service Act to authorize S. 3116 DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor the expansion of activities related to At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the of S. 1023, a bill to reauthorize the Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, name of the Senator from Connecticut Tropical Forest Conservation Act of and brain health under the Alzheimer’s (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) was added as a co- 1998 through fiscal year 2021, and for Disease and Healthy Aging Program, sponsor of S. 3116, a bill to establish an other purposes. and for other purposes. Election Security grant program. S. 1087 S. 2101 S. 3250 At the request of Mr. TOOMEY, the At the request of Mr. DONNELLY, the At the request of Ms. HARRIS, the name of the Senator from South Da- names of the Senator from Arkansas name of the Senator from New York kota (Mr. ROUNDS) was added as a co- (Mr. BOOZMAN), the Senator from (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) was added as a co- sponsor of S. 1087, a bill to ensure Vermont (Mr. LEAHY) and the Senator sponsor of S. 3250, a bill to amend the America’s law enforcement officers from Delaware (Mr. COONS) were added Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow have access to lifesaving equipment as cosponsors of S. 2101, a bill to award for a credit against tax for rent paid on needed to defend themselves and civil- a Congressional Gold Medal, collec- the personal residence of the taxpayer. ians from attacks by terrorists and vio- tively, to the crew of the USS Indian- S. RES. 220 lent criminals. apolis, in recognition of their persever- At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the S. 1299 ance, bravery, and service to the name of the Senator from Texas (Mr. At the request of Mr. PETERS, the United States. CRUZ) was added as a cosponsor of S. name of the Senator from New Hamp- S. 2463 Res. 220, a resolution expressing soli- shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- At the request of Mr. CORKER, the darity with Falun Gong practitioners sponsor of S. 1299, a bill to amend title names of the Senator from Maine (Mr. who have lost lives, freedoms, and XVIII of the Social Security Act to re- KING) and the Senator from Minnesota rights for adhering to their beliefs and duce the occurrence of diabetes in (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) were added as cospon- practices and condemning the practice Medicare beneficiaries by extending sors of S. 2463, a bill to establish the of non-consenting organ harvesting, coverage under Medicare for medical United States International Develop- and for other purposes. nutrition therapy services to such ment Finance Corporation, and for S. RES. 525 beneficiaries with pre-diabetes or with other purposes. At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the risk factors for developing type 2 dia- S. 2554 names of the Senator from Missouri betes. At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the (Mr. BLUNT) and the Senator from Wyo- S. 1353 name of the Senator from Wisconsin ming (Mr. ENZI) were added as cospon- At the request of Mr. LEAHY, the (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- sors of S. Res. 525, a resolution desig- name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. sor of S. 2554, a bill to ensure that nating September 2018 as National De- KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. health insurance issuers and group mocracy Month as a time to reflect on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.020 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5269 the contributions of the system of gov- sian Federation without another senior SENATE RESOLUTION 590—RECOG- ernment of the United States to a more United States official present; and NIZING THE 171ST ANNIVERSARY free and stable world. (2) the President, or a designee of the OF THE ARRIVAL OF PIONEERS President, should within 7 days report to AMENDMENT NO. 3402 BELONGING TO THE CHURCH OF Congress, in the appropriate setting, on the At the request of Mr. CRUZ, the JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY substance of President Trump’s meeting names of the Senator from Mississippi SAINTS TO THE GREAT SALT with President Putin, including any agree- LAKE VALLEY IN UTAH, AND (Mrs. HYDE-SMITH), the Senator from ments or commitments made on behalf of Florida (Mr. RUBIO) and the Senator the United States. THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE from Oklahoma (Mr. INHOFE) were CHURCH AND ITS MEMBERS TO THE UNITED STATES AND THE added as cosponsors of amendment No. f 3402 intended to be proposed to H. R. WORLD 6147, a bill making appropriations for Mr. HATCH (for himself, Mr. LEE, the Department of the Interior, envi- SENATE RESOLUTION 589—DESIG- Mr. CRAPO, Mr. RISCH, Mr. FLAKE, Mr. ronment, and related agencies for the NATING JULY 28, 2018, AS ‘‘NA- HELLER, and Mr. UDALL) submitted the fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, TIONAL DAY OF THE AMERICAN COWBOY’’ following resolution; which was consid- and for other purposes. ered and agreed to: AMENDMENT NO. 3405 Mr. ENZI (for himself, Ms. HEITKAMP, At the request of Mr. HELLER, the S. RES. 590 Mr. RISCH, Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. HOEVEN, name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. Whereas in the years following the estab- Mr. CRAPO, Mr. THUNE, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. MERKLEY) was added as a cosponsor of lishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of amendment No. 3405 proposed to H.R. BARRASSO, Mr. TESTER, Mr. UDALL, Mr. Latter-day Saints (referred to in this pre- ROUNDS, Mr. BENNET, Ms. CORTEZ amble as the ‘‘LDS Church’’) in 1830, the 6147, a bill making appropriations for early members of the LDS Church (referred the Department of the Interior, envi- MASTO, and Mr. HELLER) submitted the to in this preamble as ‘‘Latter-day Saint pio- ronment, and related agencies for the following resolution; which was consid- neers’’) experienced religious persecution fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, ered and agreed to: manifested through physical assault, de- and for other purposes. struction of their houses and businesses, S. RES. 589 theft of their property, exile from their f Whereas pioneering men and women, rec- homes, threats of violence and war, impris- SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS ognized as ‘‘cowboys’’, helped to establish onment, rape, and murder; the American West; Whereas the petitions of the LDS Church Whereas the cowboy embodies honesty, in- to the United States Government for assist- SENATE RESOLUTION 588—EX- tegrity, courage, compassion, respect, a ance and redress were frequently unanswered PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE strong work ethic, and patriotism; and produced no relief; SENATE REGARDING THE NEED Whereas the cowboy spirit exemplifies Whereas the leader and prophet of the LDS FOR TRANSPARENCY REGARD- strength of character, sound family values, Church, Joseph Smith, and his brother, ING MEETINGS BETWEEN PRESI- and good common sense; Hyrum, were shot and killed by an armed Whereas the cowboy archetype transcends mob; DENT DONALD J. TRUMP AND Whereas in a letter addressed to the Presi- ethnicity, gender, geographic boundaries, RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR dent of the United States, James K. Polk, and political affiliations; PUTIN the new leader of the LDS Church, Brigham Whereas the cowboy, who lives off the land Young, wrote, ‘‘. . . [W]hile we appreciate Mr. MERKLEY submitted the fol- and works to protect and enhance the envi- lowing resolution; which was referred the Constitution of the United States as the ronment, is an excellent steward of the land most precious among the nations, we feel to the Committee on Foreign Rela- and its creatures; that we had rather retreat to the deserts, is- tions: Whereas cowboy traditions have been a lands or mountain caves than consent to be S. RES. 588 part of American culture for generations; ruled by governors and judges . . . who de- Whereas it is the unanimous conclusion of Whereas the cowboy continues to be an im- light in injustice and oppression’’; the United States intelligence community portant part of the economy through the Whereas in pursuit of liberty and religious that the Government of the Russian Federa- work of many thousands of ranchers across freedom, the Latter-day Saint pioneers jour- tion interfered in the 2016 Presidential elec- the United States who contribute to the eco- neyed westward in the winter of 1846, and ul- tion, at the direction of Russian President nomic well-being of every State; timately travelled more than 1,300 miles of Vladimir Putin, to advance the candidacy of Whereas millions of fans watch profes- wilderness across vast prairies, barren then-candidate Donald J. Trump; sional and working ranch rodeo events annu- deserts, jagged mountains, and turbulent riv- Whereas President Trump has repeatedly ally, making rodeo one of the most-watched ers; cast doubt on intelligence community con- sports in the United States; Whereas the Latter-day Saint pioneers en- clusions regarding Russia’s attacks during Whereas membership and participation in dured extreme weather conditions, illness, the 2016 election and suggested at his Hel- rodeo and other organizations that promote hunger, and exhaustion, resulting in the pio- sinki press conference, as he has in previous and encompass the livelihood of cowboys neers losing young children, spouses, par- ents, and friends to exposure, disease, and statements, that he believes President span every generation and transcend race starvation; Putin’s denials despite evidence to the con- and gender; trary; Whereas upon entering the Great Salt Whereas the cowboy is a central figure in Whereas President Trump and individuals Lake Valley in Utah on July 24, 1847, literature, film, and music and occupies a associated with his 2016 presidential cam- Brigham Young announced, ‘‘This is the central place in the public imagination; paign remain subjects of an ongoing inves- right place,’’ foretelling how the valley tigation led by Special Counsel Robert S. Whereas the cowboy is an American icon; would become home to many Latter-day Mueller III relating to Russia’s efforts to and Saints and their posterity; interfere in the 2016 United States presi- Whereas the ongoing contributions made Whereas the Latter-day Saint pioneers dential election, an investigation which has by cowboys and cowgirls to their commu- worked together to plant crops, irrigate yielded 32 indictments and 5 guilty pleas to nities should be recognized and encouraged: fields, and build homes and businesses, trans- date; Now, therefore, be it forming the desert into a thriving commu- Whereas President Trump reportedly per- Resolved, That the Senate— nity where they could live in safety and sonally requested that his meeting at the (1) designates July 28, 2018, as ‘‘National practice their religion without prejudice and abuse; July 16, 2018, Helsinki Summit with Presi- Day of the American Cowboy’’; and Whereas on July 24, 1849, the Latter-day dent Putin be one-on-one and excluded other (2) encourages the people of the United United States officials; and Saints first commemorated their arrival to States to observe the day with appropriate Whereas, since the Helsinki Summit, their new home with a procession to Temple ceremonies and activities. President Trump and President Putin al- Square in Salt Lake City for a special devo- luded to oral agreements they made, the spe- tional, followed by a feast of thanksgiving; cifics of which have not been made known Whereas ‘‘Pioneer Day’’ is a Utah State publicly: Now, therefore, be it holiday celebrated on July 24th to remember Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate and honor the early settlers with parades, that— flag ceremonies, re-enactments, devotionals, (1) President Trump should not meet with sporting events, feasts, dances, concerts, fes- President Putin or any official of the Rus- tivals, rodeos, and fireworks;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:40 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.021 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5270 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Whereas the Latter-day Saint pioneers Resolved, That the Senate— AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND helped shape the settlement of the West by (1) supports the goals and ideals of Na- PROPOSED constructing bridges, building ferries, clear- tional Purple Heart Recognition Day; and ing trails, establishing communities, plant- (2) encourages all people of the United SA 3409. Mr. SCHATZ (for himself, Ms. ing crops, expanding trade posts, erecting States— HIRONO, and Mr. YOUNG) submitted an trail markers, and charting maps, all of (A) to learn about the history of the Purple amendment intended to be proposed to which assisted thousands of settlers west- Heart Medal; amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY ward; (B) to honor recipients of the Purple Heart to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations Whereas the Latter-day Saint pioneers ex- Medal; and for the Department of the Interior, environ- emplified what can be achieved when indus- (C) to conduct appropriate ceremonies, ac- ment, and related agencies for the fiscal year trious and resilient people work diligently tivities, and programs to demonstrate sup- ending September 30, 2019, and for other pur- and join together as communities to build a port for people who have been awarded the poses; which was ordered to lie on the table. stronger and brighter future; and Purple Heart Medal. SA 3410. Ms. HIRONO submitted an amend- Whereas the bravery, determination, and ment intended to be proposed to amendment ingenuity that the Latter-day Saint pioneers Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill demonstrated inspires citizens of the United to speak on my resolution supporting H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on States and people across the world to tri- the goals and ideals of National Purple the table. umph over adversity, to continuously strive Heart Recognition Day. I am pleased to SA 3411. Ms. HIRONO submitted an amend- toward progress and innovation, and to press have been joined in sponsoring this res- ment intended to be proposed to amendment forward with unconquerable faith and un- olution by the senior senator from SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill daunted hope: Now, therefore, be it H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on Resolved, That the Senate— West Virginia, Senator MANCHIN, and the table. (1) recognizes ‘‘Pioneer Day’’, on the 171st 22 of our Senate colleagues. SA 3412. Mr. JONES submitted an amend- anniversary of the arrival of the early mem- The Purple Heart’s history goes as ment intended to be proposed to amendment bers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- far back as the founding of our Nation. SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill day Saints (referred to in this resolving General George Washington established H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on clause as ‘‘Latter-day Saint pioneers’’) to what is now known as the Purple Heart the table. the Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah; SA 3413. Mr. UDALL (for himself, Mr. ROB- (2) acknowledges the many sacrifices of the Medal when he issued an order estab- ERTS, Mr. BENNET, Mr. MORAN, Mr. HEINRICH, Latter-day Saint pioneers in their pursuit of lishing the Military Badge of Merit on and Mr. GARDNER) submitted an amendment liberty and religious freedom; and August 7, 1782. General Washington intended to be proposed to amendment SA (3) commends the Latter-day Saint pio- wished for the award to be used to rec- 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. neers and their descendants for their signifi- ognize meritorious action performed by 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the cant contributions in facilitating the settle- members of the Continental Army, and table. ment of the West, and providing an example it took the form of a purple heart. SA 3414. Mr. UDALL (for himself, Mr. ROB- of courage, industry, and faith that inspires ERTS, Mr. BENNET, Mr. MORAN, Mr. HEINRICH, people throughout the world. The Military Badge of Merit was dis- and Mr. GARDNER) submitted an amendment continued after the Revolution and was f intended to be proposed to amendment SA not revived until 1932, when the Purple 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. SENATE RESOLUTION 591—SUP- Heart medal was authorized as its offi- 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the PORTING THE GOALS AND cial successor decoration. On February table. IDEALS OF NATIONAL PURPLE 22, 1932, the 200th Anniversary of the SA 3415. Mrs. ERNST submitted an amend- HEART RECOGNITION DAY birth of George Washington, then- ment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill Ms. COLLINS (for herself, Mr. Army Chief of Staff General Douglas H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on MANCHIN, Mr. TESTER, Ms. WARREN, Mr. MacArthur resurrected the award, and the table. MARKEY, Ms. BALDWIN, Mrs. HYDE- it was re-designated as the Purple SA 3416. Mr. CARDIN submitted an amend- SMITH, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. PETERS, Mr. Heart. Quite appropriately, this rees- ment intended to be proposed by him to the BOOZMAN, Ms. SMITH, Mr. MERKLEY, tablished Purple Heart Medal exhibits bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie Mrs. ERNST, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. THUNE, the bust and profile of George Wash- on the table. Mr. MORAN, Mr. DAINES, Mr. ROUNDS, ington. SA 3417. Mr. CARDIN (for himself and Mrs. Mr. RUBIO, Mr. YOUNG, Mr. VAN HOL- FEINSTEIN) submitted an amendment in- It is around this time that the Purple tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 LEN, Mr. NELSON, Mr. DONNELLY, and Heart became synonymous with those proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, Mrs. FEINSTEIN) submitted the fol- unfortunate heroes who were killed or supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. lowing resolution; which was consid- wounded in combat. Since 1932, the SA 3418. Mr. CARDIN submitted an amend- ered and agreed to: U.S. Military has awarded more than ment intended to be proposed by him to the S. RES. 591 1.8 million Purple Hearts. bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. Whereas, on August 7, 1782, during the Rev- Just as the Purple Heart Medal has olutionary War, General George Washington SA 3419. Mr. CARDIN (for himself and Ms. established what is now known as the Purple held a special meaning to its millions HEITKAMP) submitted an amendment in- Heart Medal when he issued an order estab- of recipients and their families, it also tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. lishing the Badge of Military Merit; has special significance to me and my 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the Whereas the Badge of Military Merit was family. My father, who died earlier this table. designed in the shape of a heart in purple year, was a proud World War II veteran SA 3420. Mr. CARDIN submitted an amend- cloth or silk; who was wounded twice during the Bat- ment intended to be proposed by him to the Whereas, while the award of the Badge of tle of the Bulge. He earned two Purple bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie Military Merit ceased with the end of the on the table. Revolutionary War, the Purple Heart Medal Hearts and the Bronze Star, and it was SA 3421. Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself was authorized in 1932 as the official suc- from him that I first learned to honor and Mr. WYDEN) submitted an amendment cessor decoration to the Badge of Military and respect our veterans. intended to be proposed by him to the bill Merit; Mr. President, the Purple Heart is a H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on Whereas the Purple Heart Medal is the old- reminder that freedom is a gift pur- the table. est United States military decoration in chased at the greatest possible price, SA 3422. Ms. COLLINS (for Mr. DURBIN (for present use; himself and Mr. WICKER)) proposed an Whereas the Purple Heart Medal is award- and it is for that reason that I am amendment to amendment SA 3399 proposed ed in the name of the President of the United sponsoring this resolution supporting by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra. States to recognize members of the Armed the goals and ideals of National Purple SA 3423. Mr. GARDNER (for himself and Forces who are killed or wounded in action Heart Recognition Day. I believe it is Mr. DAINES) submitted an amendment in- against an enemy of the United States or are vitally important for all Americans to tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. killed or wounded while held as prisoners of learn the history of this important 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the war; military award, and to understand and table. Whereas the Purple Heart Medal has been honor the sacrifices of the many men SA 3424. Mr. GARDNER (for himself, Mr. awarded to an estimated 1,800,000 recipients; BURR, Mr. BENNET, and Mrs. SHAHEEN) sub- and and women in uniform who have earned mitted an amendment intended to be pro- Whereas August 7, 2018, is an appropriate the Purple Heart. I am grateful to all posed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. day to celebrate as National Purple Heart of my colleagues who have joined me in SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which Recognition Day: Now, therefore, be it supporting this important resolution. was ordered to lie on the table.

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SA 3425. Mr. GARDNER submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3460. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself and amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- Mr. SANDERS) submitted an amendment in- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 dered to lie on the table. SA 3443. Ms. SMITH (for herself and Ms. proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, SA 3426. Mr. HELLER submitted an amend- KLOBUCHAR) submitted an amendment in- supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed by him to the tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SA 3461. Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for herself and bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, Mr. SCHUMER) submitted an amendment in- on the table. supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SA 3427. Mr. HELLER submitted an SA 3444. Mr. NELSON submitted an amend- proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, amendment intended to be proposed to ment intended to be proposed by him to the supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie SA 3462. Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for herself, to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- on the table. Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. MURPHY, and Mr. dered to lie on the table. SA 3445. Mrs. GILLIBRAND submitted an SCHUMER) submitted an amendment intended SA 3428. Mr. HELLER submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to to be proposed by her to the bill H.R. 6147, amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3463. Mr. CARPER (for himself and Ms. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. HEITKAMP) submitted an amendment in- dered to lie on the table. SA 3446. Mrs. GILLIBRAND submitted an tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SA 3429. Mr. HELLER submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by her proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, amendment intended to be proposed to to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY dered to lie on the table. SA 3464. Mr. LEAHY (for himself, Ms. KLO- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3447. Mr. JONES submitted an amend- BUCHAR, Mr. COONS, Ms. HIRONO, Mr. WARNER, dered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment Mr. REED, Mr. CARPER, and Mrs. SHAHEEN) SA 3430. Ms. MURKOWSKI (for Mr. KEN- SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill submitted an amendment intended to be pro- NEDY (for himself and Mr. CASSIDY)) proposed H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on posed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; an amendment to amendment SA 3399 pro- the table. which was ordered to lie on the table. posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, SA 3448. Mr. MERKLEY submitted an SA 3465. Ms. HEITKAMP submitted an supra. amendment intended to be proposed to amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3431. Mr. ENZI submitted an amend- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY ment intended to be proposed to amendment to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill dered to lie on the table. dered to lie on the table. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3449. Mr. CASEY submitted an amend- SA 3466. Mr. MURPHY (for himself and Mr. the table. ment intended to be proposed by him to the BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amendment in- SA 3432. Mr. BOOZMAN submitted an bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. amendment intended to be proposed to on the table. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3450. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3467. Mr. MURPHY (for himself and Mr. dered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amendment in- SA 3433. Mr. MORAN submitted an amend- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. ment intended to be proposed to amendment dered to lie on the table. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill SA 3451. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an table. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on amendment intended to be proposed by her SA 3468. Mr. MURPHY (for himself and Mr. the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amendment in- SA 3434. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an dered to lie on the table. tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 amendment intended to be proposed by him SA 3452. Mr. SANDERS submitted an proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed to supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. dered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3469. Mr. MARKEY (for himself, Mr. SA 3435. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- MERKLEY, Mr. CARPER, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to dered to lie on the table. MENENDEZ, Mr. REED, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mr. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3453. Mr. SANDERS submitted an WYDEN, Ms. HASSAN, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed to HOLLEN, Mr. NELSON, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) dered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY submitted an amendment intended to be pro- SA 3436. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- posed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; amendment intended to be proposed by him dered to lie on the table. which was ordered to lie on the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3454. Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself, SA 3470. Mr. MARKEY (for himself, Mr. dered to lie on the table. Ms. MURKOWSKI, and Mr. MURPHY) submitted MERKLEY, Mr. CARPER, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. SA 3437. Mr. GARDNER submitted an an amendment intended to be proposed to MENENDEZ, Mr. REED, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY WYDEN, Ms. HASSAN, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- HOLLEN, Mr. NELSON, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. submitted an amendment intended to be pro- dered to lie on the table. SA 3455. Mr. MERKLEY submitted an posed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; SA 3438. Mr. RISCH submitted an amend- amendment intended to be proposed to which was ordered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3471. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mr. SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- RISCH, Mr. CRAPO, and Mr. MERKLEY) sub- H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on dered to lie on the table. mitted an amendment intended to be pro- the table. SA 3456. Mr. MERKLEY submitted an posed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SA 3439. Mr. RISCH submitted an amend- amendment intended to be proposed to SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which ment intended to be proposed by him to the amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY was ordered to lie on the table. bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3472. Mr. DAINES submitted an amend- on the table. dered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3440. Mr. FLAKE submitted an amend- SA 3457. Mr. JONES submitted an amend- SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill ment intended to be proposed to amendment ment intended to be proposed to amendment H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill the table. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3473. Mr. SCHATZ submitted an amend- the table. the table. ment intended to be proposed by him to the SA 3441. Mr. THUNE (for himself, Mr. NEL- SA 3458. Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself, bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie SON, Mrs. FISCHER, Mrs. MCCASKILL, Ms. Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. REED, on the table. HEITKAMP, Mr. DONNELLY, Ms. SMITH, Mr. Ms. HASSAN, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. MURPHY, Ms. SA 3474. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted an GARDNER, Mr. COTTON, Mr. CRAPO, Mr. RISCH, WARREN, Mr. KING, and Ms. COLLINS) sub- amendment intended to be proposed to Mr. MORAN, Mr. HOEVEN, Mr. JOHNSON, Mr. mitted an amendment intended to be pro- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY DAINES, Mr. RUBIO, Mr. ENZI, Mr. ROUNDS, posed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- Mr. JONES, Mr. BLUNT, Mr. HELLER, Mr. BAR- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which dered to lie on the table. RASSO, and Mr. INHOFE) submitted an amend- was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3475. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted an ment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3459. Ms. HEITKAMP (for herself, Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill CARPER, and Mr. MORAN) submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on amendment intended to be proposed to to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY dered to lie on the table. SA 3442. Mr. WHITEHOUSE submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3476. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to dered to lie on the table. amendment intended to be proposed to

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amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. table. dered to lie on the table. SA 3495. Mr. CORNYN (for himself and Mr. SA 3511. Mr. BROWN (for himself, Mr. SA 3477. Mr. WICKER submitted an amend- WARNER) submitted an amendment intended INHOFE, and Mr. WHITEHOUSE) submitted an ment intended to be proposed by him to the to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- amendment intended to be proposed to bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY on the table. supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3478. Mr. INHOFE submitted an amend- SA 3496. Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Ms. dered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment BALDWIN, Mr. CASSIDY, Mr. PETERS, Mr. ROB- SA 3512. Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for herself and SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill ERTS, and Mr. RUBIO) submitted an amend- Mr. CASSIDY) submitted an amendment in- H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on ment intended to be proposed to amendment tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 the table. SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, SA 3479. Mr. INHOFE submitted an amend- H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment the table. SA 3513. Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted an SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill SA 3497. Mr. JOHNSON (for himself, Mrs. amendment intended to be proposed to H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on ERNST, and Mr. BLUNT) submitted an amend- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3480. Mr. INHOFE submitted an amend- SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill dered to lie on the table. ment intended to be proposed to amendment H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3514. Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted an SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill the table. amendment intended to be proposed to H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3498. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY the table. amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3481. Mr. GARDNER (for himself and to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. Ms. WARREN) submitted an amendment in- dered to lie on the table. SA 3515. Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted an tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. SA 3499. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3482. Mr. CASSIDY submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. amendment intended to be proposed to dered to lie on the table. SA 3516. Mr. GARDNER (for himself and amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3500. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an Mr. BENNET) submitted an amendment in- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed by him tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. dered to lie on the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the SA 3483. Mr. CASSIDY submitted an dered to lie on the table. table. amendment intended to be proposed by him SA 3501. Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Mr. NEL- SA 3517. Mr. HELLER (for himself and Mrs. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SON, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. COTTON, Mr. INHOFE, FEINSTEIN) submitted an amendment in- dered to lie on the table. Mr. CASEY, Mrs. ERNST, and Mr. HELLER) tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SA 3484. Ms. WARREN (for herself and Mr. submitted an amendment intended to be pro- proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, MARKEY) submitted an amendment intended posed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- which was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3518. Mr. TOOMEY submitted an posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, SA 3502. Mr. HOEVEN (for himself, Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. BENNET, Mrs. ERNST, Mr. ROUNDS, Ms. SMITH, amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3485. Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Ms. and Mr. NELSON) submitted an amendment to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- CANTWELL) submitted an amendment in- intended to be proposed by him to the bill dered to lie on the table. tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3519. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, the table. intended to be proposed by him to the bill supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3503. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mrs. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3486. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself and GILLIBRAND, Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. the table. Mr. WYDEN) submitted an amendment in- MARKEY, Ms. WARREN, and Mr. MERKLEY) SA 3520. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 submitted an amendment intended to be pro- intended to be proposed by him to the bill proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, posed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which the table. SA 3487. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself and was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3521. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment Mr. WYDEN) submitted an amendment in- SA 3504. Mr. PETERS (for himself, Mr. intended to be proposed to amendment SA tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SULLIVAN, and Ms. STABENOW) submitted an 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, amendment intended to be proposed to 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY table. SA 3488. Mr. DONNELLY submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3522. Mr. LEE (for himself and Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to dered to lie on the table. BOOKER) submitted an amendment intended amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3505. Ms. WARREN submitted an to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed to supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. dered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3523. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment SA 3489. Mr. WHITEHOUSE submitted an to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- intended to be proposed by him to the bill amendment intended to be proposed to dered to lie on the table. H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3506. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3524. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an dered to lie on the table. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3490. Mr. UDALL submitted an amend- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY ment intended to be proposed by him to the dered to lie on the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie SA 3507. Ms. DUCKWORTH submitted an dered to lie on the table. on the table. amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3525. Mr. MURPHY (for himself and Mr. SA 3491. Mr. UDALL submitted an amend- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amendment in- ment intended to be proposed to amendment to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- tended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill dered to lie on the table. proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SA 3508. Ms. DUCKWORTH submitted an supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. the table. amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3526. Mr. BLUMENTHAL submitted an SA 3492. Mrs. FISCHER submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY amendment intended to be proposed to amendment intended to be proposed to to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY dered to lie on the table. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- SA 3509. Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Ms. dered to lie on the table. dered to lie on the table. WARREN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, SA 3527. Mr. BLUMENTHAL (for himself, SA 3493. Mr. CORNYN submitted an and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amend- Mr. MURPHY, Mr. COONS, and Mr. BOOKER) amendment intended to be proposed to ment intended to be proposed to amendment submitted an amendment intended to be pro- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill posed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- H.R. 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which dered to lie on the table. the table. was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3494. Mr. CORNYN submitted an SA 3510. Mr. DURBIN (for himself and Mr. SA 3528. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to GRASSLEY) submitted an amendment in- amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.030 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5273 to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; Federal grant programs to enable continued dered to lie on the table. which was ordered to lie on the table; passenger rail operations on long-distance SA 3529. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an as follows: routes (as defined in section 24102 of title 49, amendment intended to be proposed by him United States Code) on which Amtrak is the to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- At the appropriate place in division D, in- sole tenant of the host railroad and positive dered to lie on the table. sert the following: train control systems are not required by SEC. . In carrying out a land manage- SA 3530. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an lll law (including regulations): Provided further, ment activity on Federal land under the ju- amendment intended to be proposed to That prior to altering or canceling Amtrak risdiction of the Secretary of Agriculture, amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY rail service on the National Network (as de- including maintenance and restoration in re- to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- fined in section 24102 of title 49, United sponse to degradation caused by human ac- dered to lie on the table. States Code), Amtrak shall thoroughly con- tivity or natural events (such as fire, flood, SA 3531. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an sult with affected communities with the goal or infestation), to the extent practicable, the amendment intended to be proposed to of maintaining rail connectivity and service Secretary of Agriculture shall give pref- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY as intended by Congress, including offering erence to the use of locally adapted native to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- opportunities for public input through a no- plant materials. dered to lie on the table. tice and comment process.’’. SA 3532. Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, Mr. SA 3411. Ms. HIRONO submitted an MERKLEY, Mr. TESTER, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. SA 3414. Mr. UDALL (for himself, Mr. WARREN, and Mr. BROWN) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to ROBERTS, Mr. BENNET, Mr. MORAN, Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. HEINRICH, and Mr. GARDNER) submitted amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- appropriations for the Department of an amendment intended to be proposed dered to lie on the table. the Interior, environment, and related to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SA 3533. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making amendment intended to be proposed to tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; appropriations for the Department of amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY the Interior, environment, and related to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- dered to lie on the table. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3534. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an At the end of title IV of division A, add the amendment intended to be proposed by him following: which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- USE OF LOCALLY ADAPTED NATIVE PLANT MATE- dered to lie on the table. RIALS IN LAND MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ON At the appropriate place in title I of divi- SA 3535. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted an FEDERAL LAND sion D, insert the following: amendment intended to be proposed to SEC. 1ll. It is the sense of Congress SEC. 43ll. To complement the implemen- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY that— to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was or- tation by the Bureau of Land Management of (1) long-distance passenger rail routes pro- dered to lie on the table. a National Seed Strategy to improve seed vide much-needed transportation access for SA 3536. Ms. CORTEZ MASTO (for herself supplies for restoring healthy and productive 4,700,000,000 riders in 325 communities in 40 native plant communities, the Secretary of and Mr. TOOMEY) submitted an amendment States and are particularly important in intended to be proposed to amendment SA the Interior shall give preference, to the rural areas; and maximum extent practicable, to the use of 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. (2) long-distance passenger rail routes and 6147, supra; which was ordered to lie on the locally adapted native plant materials in services should be sustained to ensure table. carrying out a land management activity on connectivity throughout the National Net- SA 3537. Mr. WARNER (for himself, Mr. Federal land, including maintenance and res- work (as defined in section 24102 of title 49, toration activities carried out in response to HOEVEN, and Ms. CORTEZ MASTO) submitted United States Code). an amendment intended to be proposed by degradation caused by human activity or him to the bill H.R. 6147, supra; which was natural events, such as fire, flood, or infesta- SA 3415. Mrs. ERNST submitted an ordered to lie on the table. tion. amendment intended to be proposed to f SA 3412. Mr. JONES submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making TEXT OF AMENDMENTS amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. appropriations for the Department of SA 3409. Mr. SCHATZ (for himself, the Interior, environment, and related SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making Ms. HIRONO, and Mr. YOUNG) submitted appropriations for the Department of agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- an amendment intended to be proposed tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- which was ordered to lie on the table; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; as follows: appropriations for the Department of On page 84, lines 17 and 18, strike ‘‘and con- the Interior, environment, and related which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: ducting an international program as author- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- ized, $333,990,000’’ and insert ‘‘$324,990,000’’. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; On page 17, line 4, strike ‘‘$88,910,000’’ and On page 93, strike lines 7 through 23. which was ordered to lie on the table; insert ‘‘$91,910,000’’. On page 17, line 14, strike ‘‘$5,000,000’’ and as follows: SA 3416. Mr. CARDIN submitted an insert ‘‘$8,000,000’’. amendment intended to be proposed by At the appropriate place in division D, in- On page 40, line 7, strike ‘‘$134,673,000’’ and him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- sert the following: insert ‘‘$137,673,000’’. SEC. ll. Of the funds made available for propriations for the Department of the the Department of Housing and Urban Devel- SA 3413. Mr. UDALL (for himself, Mr. Interior, environment, and related opment under the heading ‘‘RESEARCH AND ROBERTS, Mr. BENNET, Mr. MORAN, Mr. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- TECHNOLOGY’’ under the heading ‘‘POLICY DE- HEINRICH, and Mr. GARDNER) submitted tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; VELOPMENT AND RESEARCH’’, $1,000,000 shall an amendment intended to be proposed which was ordered to lie on the table; be available to provide technical assistance as follows: for temporary and permanent housing assist- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ance to communities impacted by a major SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making At the appropriate place, insert the fol- disaster declaration under the Robert T. appropriations for the Department of lowing: SEC. . It is the sense of the Senate that Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- the Interior, environment, and related ll the Administrator of the Small Business Ad- sistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) resulting agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- ministration should increase the loan limit from flooding, an earthquake, or a volcanic tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; for the Community Advantage Pilot Pro- event in 2018. which was ordered to lie on the table; gram of the Small Business Administration, as follows: SA 3410. Ms. HIRONO submitted an which helps to provide loans under section On page 464, line 24, strike ‘‘regulation.’’ 7(a) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. amendment intended to be proposed to 636(a)) to underserved markets, from $250,000 amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. and insert the following: ‘‘regulation: Pro- vided further, That not less than $50,000,000 of to $350,000. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the amount provided under this heading appropriations for the Department of shall be available for capital expenses re- SA 3417. Mr. CARDIN (for himself the Interior, environment, and related lated to safety improvements, maintenance, and Mrs. FEINSTEIN) submitted an agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- and the non-Federal match for discretionary amendment intended to be proposed to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.032 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5274 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ing small entity compliance with agency following: ‘‘Government: Provided further, SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making regulations; and That not later than 240 days after the date of appropriations for the Department of (3) recommendations for best practices for enactment of this Act, the Inspector General shall update the report entitled ‘Effects of the Interior, environment, and related agencies to address small business regu- latory concerns and improve customer serv- Amtrak’s Poor On-Time Performance’, num- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- ice. bered CR-2008-047, and dated March 28, 2008, tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; and make the updated report publicly avail- which was ordered to lie on the table; SA 3420. Mr. CARDIN submitted an able.’’. as follows: amendment intended to be proposed by SA 3423. Mr. GARDNER (for himself In section 531, strike ‘‘10’’ and insert ‘‘15’’. him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- and Mr. DAINES) submitted an amend- propriations for the Department of the ment intended to be proposed by him SA 3418. Mr. CARDIN submitted an Interior, environment, and related to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropria- amendment intended to be proposed by agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tions for the Department of the Inte- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; propriations for the Department of the rior, environment, and related agencies which was ordered to lie on the table; for the fiscal year ending September 30, Interior, environment, and related as follows: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- 2019, and for other purposes; which was At the appropriate place, insert the fol- ordered to lie on the table; as follows: tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; lowing: which was ordered to lie on the table; At the end of title IV of division A, add the SEC. lll. SIZE STANDARDS FOR SMALL BUSI- following: as follows: NESS CONCERNS. EXPANSION OF CERTAIN AUTHORITIES OF THE At the appropriate place, insert the fol- (a) CALCULATION ON THE BASIS OF ANNUAL HEALTHY FORESTS RESTORATION ACT OF 2003 lowing: AVERAGE GROSS RECEIPTS.—Section TO FIRE REGIME IV AND FIRE REGIME V SEC. ll. The Administrator of the Small 3(a)(2)(C)(ii)(II) of the Small Business Act (15 Business Administration shall— U.S.C. 632(a)(2)(C)(ii)(II)) is amended by SEC. 43ll. (a) Section 101 of the Healthy (1) work with Federal agencies to ensure striking ‘‘over a period of not less than 3 Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. that each Office of Small and Disadvantaged years’’ and inserting ‘‘, which shall be cal- 6511) is amended— Business Utilization achieves compliance culated by using the 3 lowest annual average (1) by redesignating paragraphs (11) through (16) as paragraphs (13) through (18), with the requirements under section 15(k) of gross receipts of the business concern during respectively; and the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 644(k)); and the preceding 5-year period’’. (2) by inserting after paragraph (10) the fol- (2) not later than 180 days after the date of (b) REGULATIONS.—Not later than 18 lowing: enactment of this Act— months after the date of enactment of this ‘‘(11) FIRE REGIME IV.—The term ‘fire re- (A) submit to the Committee on Small Act, the Administrator of the Small Busi- gime IV’ means an area— Business and Entrepreneurship and the Com- ness Administration shall promulgate regu- ‘‘(A) in which historically there are stand mittee on Appropriations of the Senate and lations as necessary to implement the replacement severity fires with a frequency the Committee on Small Business and the amendment made by subsection (a). of 35 through 100 years; and Committee on Appropriations of the House ‘‘(B) that may be located in any vegetation of Representatives a report on Federal agen- SA 3421. Mr. WHITEHOUSE sub- type. cy compliance with the requirements under mitted an amendment intended to be ‘‘(12) FIRE REGIME V.—The term ‘fire re- such section 15(k); and proposed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, gime V’ means an area— (B) issue detailed guidance for the peer re- making appropriations for the Depart- ‘‘(A) in which historically there are stand view process of the Small Business Procure- ment of the Interior, environment, and replacement severity fires with a frequency ment Advisory Council in order to facilitate related agencies for the fiscal year end- of 200 years; and a more in depth review of Federal agency ing September 30, 2019, and for other ‘‘(B) that may be located in any vegetation compliance with the requirements under type.’’. such section 15(k). purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: (b) Section 102(a)(3) of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. 6512(a)(3)) Mr. CARDIN submitted an At the appropriate place, insert the fol- SA 3419. is amended by striking ‘‘or fire regime III’’ lowing: amendment intended to be proposed by and inserting ‘‘fire regime III, fire regime IV, SEC. lll. Not later than 180 days after him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- or fire regime V’’. propriations for the Department of the the date of enactment of this Act, the Finan- (c) Section 603(c) of the Healthy Forests cial Crimes Enforcement Network and the Interior, environment, and related Restoration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. 6591b(c)) is appropriate divisions of the Department of amended by striking paragraph (2) and in- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the Treasury shall submit to Congress a re- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; serting the following: port on any Geographic Targeting Orders ‘‘(2) LOCATION.— which was ordered to lie on the table; issued since 2016, including— ‘‘(A) DEFINITIONS.—In this paragraph, the as follows: (1) the type of data collected; terms ‘condition class 2’, ‘condition class 3’, At the appropriate place, insert the fol- (2) how the Financial Crimes Enforcement ‘fire regime I’, ‘fire regime II’, ‘fire regime lowing: Network uses the data; III’, ‘fire regime IV’, ‘fire regime V’, and SEC. ll. (a) In this section, the terms (3) whether the Financial Crimes Enforce- ‘wildland-urban interface’ have the meanings ‘‘agency’’ and ‘‘small entity’’ have the mean- ment Network needs more authority to com- given those terms in section 101. ings given those terms in section 211 of the bat money laundering through high-end real ‘‘(B) LOCATION.—A project under this sec- Small Business Regulatory Enforcement estate; and tion shall be— Fairness Act of 1996 (5 U.S.C. 601 note). (4) how a record of beneficial ownership ‘‘(i) limited to areas in the wildland-urban (b) Not later than 1 year after the date of would improve and assist law enforcement interface; or enactment of this Act, the Comptroller Gen- efforts to investigate and prosecute criminal ‘‘(ii) for projects located outside the eral of the United States shall conduct a activity and prevent the use of shell compa- wildland-urban interface, limited to areas study and submit to the Committee on Small nies to facilitate money laundering, tax eva- within condition class 2 or condition class 3 Business and Entrepreneurship and the Com- sion, terrorism financing, election fraud, and in fire regime I, fire regime II, fire regime mittee on Appropriations of the Senate and other illegal activity. III, fire regime IV, or fire regime V.’’. the Committee on Small Business and the (d) Section 605 of the Healthy Forests Res- Committee on Appropriations of the House SA 3422. Ms. COLLINS (for Mr. DUR- toration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. 6591d) is of Representatives a report assessing the BIN (for himself and Mr. WICKER)) pro- amended— quality of agency compliance with sections posed an amendment to amendment SA (1) in subsection (a)— 212 and 213 of the Small Business Regulatory 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (5 U.S.C. H.R. 6147, making appropriations for by striking ‘‘Hazardous fuels reduction 601 note), which shall include— the Department of the Interior, envi- projects, as defined in the Healthy Forests (1) the extent to which agencies comply Restoration Act of 2003 (16 U.S.C. 6511(2))’’ with each of the requirements under such ronment, and related agencies for the and inserting ‘‘Authorized hazardous fuel re- section 212; fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, duction projects (as defined in section 101)’’; (2) the extent to which agencies comply and for other purposes; as follows: (B) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘and sec- with each of the requirements under such In the matter under the heading ‘‘SALARIES tions 104 and 105’’; and section 213, including a summary of the AND EXPENSES’’ under the heading ‘‘OFFICE (C) in paragraph (2), by inserting ‘‘subject scope of compliance programs of agencies to OF INSPECTOR GENERAL’’ under the heading to section 106,’’ before ‘‘considered’’; assist small entities, the number of small en- ‘‘NATIONAL RAILROAD PASSENGER CORPORA- (2) in subsection (b)(1)(A), by striking ‘‘to tities using each such program, and the TION’’ in title III of division D, in the fourth the extent’’ and all that follows through achievements of each such program in assist- proviso, strike ‘‘Government.’’ and insert the ‘‘disease,’’; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.038 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5275 (3) in subsection (c)(2)— special account, to be known as the ‘Ski part 251 of title 36, Code of Federal Regula- (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking Area Fee Retention Account’, into which tions (or successor regulations); ‘‘Prioritized’’ and inserting ‘‘prioritized’’; there shall be deposited— ‘‘(iii) training programs on processing ski (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘If lo- ‘‘(A) in the case of a covered unit at which area applications, administering ski area cated outside the wildland-urban interface, not less than $15,000,000 is collected by the permits, or ski area process streamlining in limited to areas within Condition Classes 2 covered unit from rental charges in a fiscal the covered unit or the Region in which the or 3 in Fire Regime Groups I, II, or III’’ and year, an amount equal to 50 percent of the unit is located; and inserting ‘‘if located outside the wildland- rental charges collected at the covered unit ‘‘(iv) interpretation activities, visitor in- urban interface, limited to areas within con- in the fiscal year; or formation, visitor services, and signage in dition class 2 or condition class 3 in fire re- ‘‘(B) in the case of any other covered unit, the covered unit to enhance— gime I, fire regime II, fire regime III, fire re- an amount equal to 65 percent of the rental ‘‘(I) the ski area visitor experience on Na- gime IV, or fire regime V (as those terms are charges collected at the covered unit in a fis- tional Forest System land; and defined in section 101)’’; and cal year. ‘‘(II) avalanche information and education (C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘Lim- ‘‘(3) AVAILABILITY.—Subject to paragraphs activities carried out by the Forest Service. ited’’ and inserting ‘‘limited’’. (4), (5), and (6), any amounts deposited in the ‘‘(B) OTHER USES.—If any amounts are still Account under paragraph (2) shall remain available in the Account after all ski area SA 3424. Mr. GARDNER (for himself, available for expenditure, without further permit-related expenditures under subpara- Mr. BURR, Mr. BENNET, and Mrs. SHA- appropriation, until expended. graph (A) are made, including amounts HEEN) submitted an amendment in- ‘‘(4) LOCAL DISTRIBUTION OF AMOUNTS IN THE transferred to other covered units pursuant tended to be proposed to amendment ACCOUNT.— to paragraph (4)(C), such remaining amounts ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the in the Account may be applied to permit ad- subparagraph (B), 100 percent of the amounts ministration for other (non-ski area) Forest bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations deposited in the Account from a specific cov- for the Department of the Interior, en- Service recreation special use permits at the ered unit shall remain available for expendi- discretion of the Secretary. The Secretary vironment, and related agencies for the ture at the covered unit at which the rental shall first determine that all ski area-related fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, charges were collected. permit administration, processing and inter- and for other purposes; which was or- ‘‘(B) REDUCTION.— pretation needs have been met in all covered dered to lie on the table; as follows: ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Subject to clause (ii), the units and Regions before applying any re- Secretary may reduce the percentage of At the end of title I of division A, add the maining amounts in the Account to non-ski amounts available to a covered unit under following: area uses. subparagraph (A) if the Secretary determines ‘‘(C) LIMITATION.—Amounts in the Account PERMANENT REAUTHORIZATION OF LAND AND that the rental charges collected at the cov- WATER CONSERVATION FUND may not be used for— ered unit exceed the reasonable needs of the ‘‘(i) the conduct of wildfire suppression or SEC. 1ll. (a) Section 200302 of title 54, covered unit for that fiscal year for author- preparedness activities; United States Code, is amended— ized expenditures described in paragraph (1) in subsection (b), in the matter pre- ‘‘(ii) the conduct of biological monitoring (5)(A). on National Forest System land under the ceding paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘During ‘‘(ii) LIMITATION.—The Secretary may not Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. the period ending September 30, 2018, there’’ reduce the percentage of amounts available 1531 et seq.) for listed species or candidate and inserting ‘‘There’’; and under clause (i)— species, except as required by law for envi- (2) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ‘‘(I) in the case of a covered unit described ronmental review of ski area projects; ‘‘through September 30, 2018’’. in paragraph (2)(A), to less than 35 percent of ‘‘(iii) the acquisition of land for inclusion (b) Section 200306 of title 54, United States the amount of rental charges deposited in in the National Forest System; or Code, is amended by adding at the end the the Account from the covered unit in a fiscal ‘‘(iv) Forest Service administrative sites. following: year; or ‘‘(6) SAVINGS PROVISIONS.— ‘‘(c) PUBLIC ACCESS.—Not less than 1.5 per- ‘‘(II) in the case of any other covered unit, ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Nothing in this sub- cent of amounts made available for expendi- to less than 50 percent of the amount of rent- ture in any fiscal year under section 200303, al charges deposited in the Account from the section affects the applicability of section 7 or $10,000,000, whichever is greater, shall be covered unit in a fiscal year. of the Act of April 24, 1950 (commonly known as the ‘Granger-Thye Act’) (16 U.S.C. 580d), used for projects that secure recreational ‘‘(C) TRANSFER TO OTHER COVERED UNITS.— to ski areas on National Forest System land. public access to existing Federal public land ‘‘(i) DISTRIBUTION.—If the Secretary deter- for hunting, fishing, and other recreational mines that the percentage of amounts other- ‘‘(B) REVENUE ALLOCATION PAYMENTS.— purposes.’’. wise available to a covered unit under sub- Rental charges deposited in the Account paragraph (A) should be reduced under sub- under paragraph (2) shall be considered to be SA 3425. Mr. GARDNER submitted an paragraph (B), the Secretary may transfer to amounts received from the National Forest amendment intended to be proposed by other covered units, for allocation in accord- System for purposes of calculating amounts him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- ance with clause (ii), the percentage of the to be paid under— propriations for the Department of the amounts withheld from the covered unit ‘‘(i) the Secure Rural Schools and Commu- Interior, environment, and related under subparagraph (B), to be expended by nity Self-Determination Act of 2000 (16 agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the other covered units in accordance with U.S.C. 7101 et seq.); paragraph (5). ‘‘(ii) the sixth paragraph under the heading tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘forest service’ in the Act of May 23, 1908 (35 which was ordered to lie on the table; ‘‘(ii) CRITERIA.—In determining the alloca- tion of amounts to be transferred under Stat. 260; 16 U.S.C. 500); as follows: clause (i) among other covered units, the ‘‘(iii) section 13 of the Act of March 1, 1911 At the end of title IV of division A, add the Secretary shall consider— (36 Stat. 963; 16 U.S.C. 500); and following: ‘‘(I) the number of proposals for ski area ‘‘(iv) chapter 69 of title 31, United States ESTABLISHMENT OF SKI AREA FEE RETENTION improvements in the other covered units; Code. ACCOUNT ‘‘(II) any backlog in ski area permit ad- ‘‘(C) SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING.—Rental SEC. 43lll. (a) Section 701 of division I of ministration or the processing of ski area charges retained and expended under this the Omnibus Parks and Public Lands Man- proposals in the other covered units; and subsection shall supplement (and not sup- agement Act of 1996 (16 U.S.C. 497c) is amend- ‘‘(III) any need for services, training, staff- plant) appropriated funding for the operation ed by adding at the end the following: ing, or streamlining programs in the other and maintenance of each covered unit.’’. ‘‘(k) SKI AREA FEE RETENTION ACCOUNT.— covered units or the Region in which they (b) This section (including the amend- ‘‘(1) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: are located that would improve the adminis- ments made by this section) shall take effect ‘‘(A) ACCOUNT.—The term ‘Account’ means tration of the Forest Service Ski Area Pro- on the date that is 60 days after the date of the Ski Area Fee Retention Account estab- gram. enactment of this Act. lished under paragraph (2). ‘‘(5) AUTHORIZED EXPENDITURES.— (c) The Secretary of Agriculture shall not ‘‘(B) COVERED UNIT.—The term ‘covered ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Amounts distributed be required to issue regulations or policy unit’ means a National Forest which collects from the Account to a covered unit under guidance to implement this section (includ- a rental charge under this section. this subsection may be used for— ing the amendments made by this section). ‘‘(C) REGION.—The term ‘Region’ means a ‘‘(i) ski area special use permit administra- Forest Service Region. tion and processing of proposals for ski area SA 3426. Mr. HELLER submitted an ‘‘(D) RENTAL CHARGE.—The term ‘rental improvement projects in the covered unit, amendment intended to be proposed by charge’ means a permit rental charge that is including staffing and contracting for such him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- charged under subsection (a). administration, process, or services through ‘‘(E) SECRETARY.—The term ‘Secretary’ the unit or the Region; propriations for the Department of the means the Secretary of Agriculture. ‘‘(ii) any expenses that the Forest Service Interior, environment, and related ‘‘(2) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary of the would have otherwise applied to ski area per- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- Treasury shall establish in the Treasury a mittees through cost recovery pursuant to tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.045 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5276 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 which was ordered to lie on the table; amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making as follows: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations for the Department of At the appropriate place in title II of divi- appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related sion D, insert the following: the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SEC. ll. None of the funds made available agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; under this title may be used to provide hous- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; ing assistance benefits for an individual who is convicted of— which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: (1) aggravated sexual abuse under section as follows: At the appropriate place in title VII of di- 2241 of title 18, United States Code; On page 436, line 22, strike the period and vision C, insert the following: (2) murder under section 1111 of title 18, insert ‘‘: Provided further, That in distrib- SEC. 7ll. (a) The Secretary of Agriculture United States Code; or uting funds made available for grants under shall conduct an inventory and evaluation of (3) any other Federal or State offense in- section 117 of title 23, United States Code, certain land, as generally depicted on the volving— the Secretary shall take into consideration map entitled ‘‘Flatside Wilderness Adjacent (A) severe forms of trafficking in persons the needs of projects of regional or national Inventory Areas’’ and dated November 30, or sex trafficking, as those terms are defined significance.’’. 2017, to determine the suitability of that in paragraphs (9) and (10), respectively, of land for inclusion in the National Wilderness section 103 of the Trafficking Victims Pro- SA 3430. Mr. KENNEDY (for himself Preservation System. tection Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7102); or and Mr. CASSIDY) submitted an amend- (b) The inventory and evaluation required (B) child pornography, as defined in section ment intended to be proposed to under subsection (a) shall be completed not 2256 of title 18, United States Code. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act. SA 3427. Mr. HELLER submitted an SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making amendment intended to be proposed to appropriations for the Department of SA 3433. Mr. MORAN submitted an amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. the Interior, environment, and related amendment intended to be proposed to agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. appropriations for the Department of tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the Interior, environment, and related which was ordered to lie on the table; appropriations for the Department of agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- as follows: the Interior, environment, and related tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; On page 370, line 20, insert ‘‘, of which no agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- which was ordered to lie on the table; less than $15,000,000 shall be used for inspec- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; tions of foreign seafood manufacturers and as follows: which was ordered to lie on the table; field examinations of imported seafood’’ as follows: At the appropriate place in title I of divi- after ‘‘Affairs’’. sion D, insert the following: At the appropriate place in division C, in- SEC. 1lll. ELECTRIC VEHICLE WEIGHT LIMITA- SA 3431. Mr. ENZI submitted an sert the following: TION. amendment intended to be proposed to SEC. lll. None of the funds made avail- Section 127 of title 23, United States Code, amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. able by this Act may be used to revoke an is amended by adding at the end the fol- exception made— lowing: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (1) pursuant to the final rule of the Depart- ‘‘(v) ELECTRIC VEHICLES.— appropriations for the Department of ment of Agriculture entitled ‘‘Exceptions to ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in the Interior, environment, and related Geographic Areas for Official Agencies Under paragraph (2), a vehicle propelled exclusively agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the USGSA’’ (68 Fed. Reg. 19137 (April 18, by means of electric battery power may ex- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; 2003)); and ceed any vehicle weight limit under this sec- which was ordered to lie on the table; (2) on a date before April 14, 2017. tion by an amount that is equal to the dif- as follows: ference between— SA 3434. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an ‘‘(A) the weight of the electric batteries At the appropriate place in division D, in- and wiring system of the vehicle; and sert the following: amendment intended to be proposed by ‘‘(B) the weight of a comparable diesel SEC. ll. (a) The Secretary of Housing and him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- tank and fueling system. Urban Development, in consultation with propriations for the Department of the ‘‘(2) MAXIMUM WEIGHT.—A vehicle propelled the head of each Federal agency that admin- Interior, environment, and related exclusively by means of electric battery isters a Federal housing assistance program, agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- power may exceed any vehicle weight limit shall conduct an interdepartmental review of tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; each Federal housing assistance program in under this section up to a maximum gross which was ordered to lie on the table; vehicle weight of 82,000 pounds.’’. order to— (1) develop a plan for the elimination of as follows: SA 3428. Mr. HELLER submitted an programmatic fragmentation, duplication, At the appropriate place, insert the fol- amendment intended to be proposed to and overlap among Federal housing assist- lowing: amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ance programs, as identified by those Fed- SEC. ll. AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES AT AVIATION eral agencies in consultation with the Gov- EVENTS. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making ernment Accountability Office; and appropriations for the Department of (a) REQUIREMENT TO PROVIDE SERVICES AND (2) make recommendations to Congress for RELATED SUPPORT.—The Administrator of the Interior, environment, and related streamlining Federal housing assistance pro- the Federal Aviation Administration shall agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- grams for efficiency to increase the quality provide air traffic services and aviation safe- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; of services provided to people in the United ty support for aviation events, including which was ordered to lie on the table; States who are the most in need of assist- airshows and fly-ins, without the imposition as follows: ance. or collection of any fee, tax, or other charge At the appropriate place in title I of divi- (b) Not later than 1 year after the date of for that purpose. Amounts for the provision sion ll, insert the following: enactment of this Act, the Secretary of of such services and support shall be derived SEC. 1ll. Not later than 90 days after the Housing and Urban Development, in con- from amounts appropriated or otherwise date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary sultation with the head of each Federal available for the Federal Aviation Adminis- of Transportation shall submit to the Com- agency that administers a Federal housing tration. mittees on Appropriations and Commerce, assistance program, shall submit to the (b) DETERMINATION OF SERVICES AND SUP- Science, and Transportation of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and the Com- PORT TO BE PROVIDED.—In determining the and the Committees on Appropriations and mittee on the Budget of the Senate and the services and support to be provided for an Transportation and Infrastructure of the Committee on Appropriations and the Com- aviation event for purposes of subsection (a), House of Representatives a report on efforts mittee on the Budget of the House of Rep- the Administrator shall take into account by the Department of Transportation to en- resentatives a detailed report that outlines the following: gage with local communities, metropolitan the efficiencies that can be achieved by, and (1) The services and support required to planning organizations, and regional trans- specific recommendations for, eliminating meet levels of activity at prior events, if portation commissions on advancing data overlap, duplication, and fragmentation any, similar to the event. and intelligent transportation systems tech- among Federal housing assistance programs. (2) The anticipated need for services and nologies and other smart cities solutions. support at the event. SA 3432. Mr. BOOZMAN submitted an SA 3429. Mr. HELLER submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3435. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.045 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5277 amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. under subsection (a) the standard developed (1) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making under paragraph (1). as items (aa) and (bb), respectively, and ad- appropriations for the Department of (d) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: justing the margins accordingly; the Interior, environment, and related (1) ADMINISTRATOR.—The term ‘‘Adminis- (2) by striking ‘‘With respect to’’ and in- trator’’ means the Administrator of the Fed- serting the following: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- eral Aviation Administration. ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—With respect to’’; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; (2) NEXTGEN.—The term ‘‘NextGen’’ means (3) in item (aa), as so redesignated, by which was ordered to lie on the table; the Next Generation Air Transportation Sys- striking ‘‘is more than $250,000’’ and insert- as follows: tem. ing ‘‘is more than the Federal banking regu- At the appropriate place in title IV of divi- lator appraisal threshold’’; sion A, insert the following: SA 3437. Mr. GARDNER submitted an (4) in item (bb), as so redesignated, by SEC. 4ll. (a) This subsection and the final amendment intended to be proposed to striking ‘‘is $250,000 or less’’ and inserting ‘‘is rule entitled ‘‘Endangered and Threatened amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. equal to or less than the Federal banking Wildlife and Plants; Removal of the Gray regulator appraisal threshold’’; and SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making Wolf in Wyoming From the Federal List of (5) by adding at the end the following: appropriations for the Department of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Re- ‘‘(II) FEDERAL BANKING REGULATOR AP- moval of the Wyoming Wolf Population’s the Interior, environment, and related PRAISAL THRESHOLD DEFINED.—For purposes Status as an Experimental Population’’ (77 agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- of this clause, the term ‘Federal banking Fed. Reg. 55530 (September 10, 2012)) that was tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; regulator appraisal threshold’ means the reinstated on March 3, 2017, by the United which was ordered to lie on the table; lesser of the threshold amounts set by the States Court of Appeals for the District of as follows: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Columbia Circuit (No. 14-5300) and repub- System, the Comptroller of the Currency, On page 315, line 13, insert ‘‘of which not lished in the final rule entitled ‘‘Endangered and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corpora- less than $2,000,000 shall be available to carry and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Rein- tion for when a federally related transaction out the dryland agriculture research pro- statement of Removal of Federal Protections that is a commercial real estate transaction gram;’’ before ‘‘and of which’’. for Gray Wolves in Wyoming’’ (82 Fed. Reg. requires an appraisal prepared by a State li- 20284 (May 1, 2017)), that reinstates the re- censed or certified appraiser.’’. moval of Federal protections under the En- SA 3438. Mr. RISCH submitted an dangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3440. Mr. FLAKE submitted an seq.) of the gray wolf in the State of Wyo- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to ming, shall not be subject to judicial review. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (b)(1) Not later than 60 days after the date appropriations for the Department of of enactment of this Act and notwith- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making standing any other provision of law that ap- the Interior, environment, and related appropriations for the Department of plies to the issuance of a rule, the Secretary agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the Interior, environment, and related of the Interior shall reissue the final rule en- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- titled ‘‘Endangered and Threatened Wildlife which was ordered to lie on the table; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; and Plants; Revising the Listing of the Gray as follows: which was ordered to lie on the table; Wolf (Canis lupus) in the Western Great Strike section 531. as follows: Lakes’’ (76 Fed. Reg. 81666 (December 28, At the appropriate place in division C, in- 2011)). SA 3439. Mr. RISCH submitted an sert the following: (2) This subsection and the rule reissued amendment intended to be proposed by SEC. lll. None of the funds made avail- under paragraph (1) shall not be subject to able by this Act may be used to support the judicial review. him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- propriations for the Department of the development of insect-based foods for human Mr. JOHNSON submitted an consumption, including cricket farming and SA 3436. Interior, environment, and related taste-testing of insect-based foods. amendment intended to be proposed by agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3441. Mr. THUNE (for himself, Mr. propriations for the Department of the which was ordered to lie on the table; NELSON, Mrs. FISCHER, Mrs. MCCAS- Interior, environment, and related as follows: KILL, Ms. HEITKAMP, Mr. DONNELLY, Ms. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- SMITH, Mr. GARDNER, Mr. COTTON, Mr. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; lowing: CRAPO, Mr. RISCH, Mr. MORAN, Mr. which was ordered to lie on the table; SEC. ll. (a) Section 7(a)(29) of the Small HOEVEN, Mr. JOHNSON, Mr. DAINES, Mr. as follows: Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(29)) is amend- RUBIO, Mr. ENZI, and Mr. ROUNDS) sub- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- ed— mitted an amendment intended to be lowing: (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- (B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively, and SEC. lll. REPORT ON NEXTGEN IMPLEMENTA- posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. TION. adjusting the margins accordingly; (2) by striking ‘‘With respect to’’ and in- 6147, making appropriations for the De- (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 1 year partment of the Interior, environment, after the date of enactment of this Act, the serting the following: Administrator shall submit to Congress a re- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—With respect to’’; and related agencies for the fiscal year port on the implementation of NextGen at (3) in clause (i), as so redesignated, by ending September 30, 2019, and for commercial service airports in the United striking ‘‘for more than $250,000’’ and insert- other purposes; which was ordered to States. ing ‘‘, if such loan is in an amount greater lie on the table; as follows: (b) ELEMENTS.—The report required by sub- than the Federal banking regulator appraisal On page 455, between lines 18 and 19, insert section (a) shall include the following: threshold’’; the following: (1) The number and percentage of commer- (4) in clause (ii), as so redesignated, by SEC. 13l. None of the funds appropriated cial service airports in the United States striking ‘‘for $250,000 or less’’ and inserting or otherwise made available to the Secretary that have fully implemented NextGen. ‘‘, if such loan is in an amount equal to or of Transportation by this Act or any other (2) The percentage completion of NextGen less than the Federal banking regulator ap- Act for fiscal year 2019 or any fiscal year implementation at each commercial service praisal threshold’’; and thereafter may be used to implement, ad- airport in the United States. (5) by adding at the end the following: minister, or enforce sections 31136 and 31502 (c) DEVELOPMENT OF STANDARD TO DETER- ‘‘(B) FEDERAL BANKING REGULATOR AP- of title 49, United States Code, or regulations MINE PERCENTAGE IMPLEMENTATION OF PRAISAL THRESHOLD DEFINED.—For purposes prescribed under those sections, regarding NEXTGEN.— of this paragraph, the term ‘Federal banking maximum driving and on-duty time for driv- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall regulator appraisal threshold’ means the ers used by motor carriers to transport agri- develop a standard for determining under lesser of the threshold amounts set by the cultural commodities or farm supplies for subsection (b)(2) the percentage completion Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve agricultural purposes (as those terms are de- of NextGen implementation at commercial System, the Comptroller of the Currency, fined in section 229(e) of the Motor Carrier service airports in the United States based and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corpora- Safety Improvement Act of 1999 (49 U.S.C. on factors that may include an accounting of tion for when a federally related transaction 31136 note)) from the sources and to the loca- efficiency benefits achieved, the degree of that is a commercial real estate transaction tions described in subparagraphs (A), (B), NextGen technology and infrastructure in- requires an appraisal prepared by a State li- and (C) of section 229(a)(1) of the Motor Car- stalled, and the extent of controller training censed or certified appraiser.’’. rier Safety Improvement Act of 1999 (49 on NextGen. (b) Section 502(3)(E)(ii) of the Small Busi- U.S.C. 31136 note) at any time of the year or, (2) INCLUSION IN REPORT.—The Adminis- ness Investment Act of 1958 (15 U.S.C. for drivers used by motor carriers to trans- trator shall include in the report submitted 696(3)(E)(ii)) is amended— port agricultural commodities, within 150

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.040 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5278 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 air-miles of the destination of such commod- (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—Land shall not be making appropriations for the Depart- ities until— considered suitable for addition to the Prai- ment of the Interior, environment, and (1) the Secretary of Transportation has rie Island Reservation unless such land— related agencies for the fiscal year end- promulgated a regulation to extend the (A) consists of contiguous acres of land ing September 30, 2019, and for other hours of service exemption for drivers trans- suitable for housing and economic develop- porting agricultural commodities or farm ment; purposes; which was ordered to lie on supplies for agricultural purposes from the (B) is located within Minnesota and within the table; as follows: planting and harvesting periods (as deter- 100 miles of the Prairie Island Reservation; At the appropriate place in division C, in- mined by each State) to a year-round exemp- (C) is not subject to compatible use or sert the following: tion; and wildlife-dependent recreational use restric- DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR DAIRY FARMERS (2) the Secretary of Transportation has tions pursuant to the National Wildlife Ref- SEC. lll. Subtitle D of title I of the Ag- promulgated a regulation to extend the uge System Administration Act of 1966 (16 ricultural Act of 2014 (7 U.S.C. 9051 et seq.) is hours of service exemption for drivers trans- U.S.C. 668dd et seq.); and amended by adding at the end the following: porting agricultural commodities to such (D) is not administered by the National ‘‘PART IV—DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR DAIRY transportation within a 150 air-mile radius Park Service. FARMERS from the destination of the agricultural com- (3) REPORT.—Not later than 90 days after modities. the date of enactment of this Act, the Sec- ‘‘SEC. 1441. DIRECT PAYMENTS FOR DAIRY FARM- ERS. retary shall submit to Congress and the ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 days SA 3442. Mr. WHITEHOUSE sub- Tribe a report detailing the results of the mitted an amendment intended to be after the date of enactment of this part, the analysis conducted pursuant to paragraph Secretary shall provide a 1-time payment to proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- (1). each eligible dairy farmer described in sub- posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. Mr. NELSON submitted an section (b) in accordance with this section. 6147, making appropriations for the De- SA 3444. ‘‘(b) ELIGIBILITY.—To be eligible to receive partment of the Interior, environment, amendment intended to be proposed by a payment under this section, a dairy farmer and related agencies for the fiscal year him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- shall— ending September 30, 2019, and for propriations for the Department of the ‘‘(1) be licensed by the Secretary; and other purposes; which was ordered to Interior, environment, and related ‘‘(2) have had a production history during the 1-year period ending on the date of en- lie on the table; as follows: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; actment of this part. In the matter under the heading ‘‘CHILD NU- ‘‘(c) AMOUNT OF PAYMENT.— which was ordered to lie on the table; TRITION PROGRAMS (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The amount of a pay- FUNDS)’’ under the heading ‘‘FOOD AND NUTRI- as follows: ment under this section shall be, as deter- TION SERVICE’’ under the heading ‘‘DOMES- At the appropriate place in division D, in- mined by the report of the Economic Re- TIC FOOD PROGRAMS’’ in title IV of divi- sert the following: search Service entitled ‘Milk Cost of Produc- sion C, strike ‘‘$23,184,012,000’’ and insert SEC. ll. Of the funds made available tion by Size of Operation Report’ and dated ‘‘$23,199,012,000’’. under this Act for the Self-Help Homeowner- May 1, 2018, equal to the quotient obtained In the matter under the heading ‘‘CHILD NU- ship Opportunity Program of the Depart- by dividing— TRITION PROGRAMS (INCLUDING TRANSFERS OF ment of Housing and Urban Development, ‘‘(A) the product obtained by multiplying— FUNDS)’’ under the heading ‘‘FOOD AND NUTRI- not less than $540,000 shall be made available ‘‘(i) the quantity (in pounds) of the na- TION SERVICE’’ under the heading ‘‘DOMES- for low-income and very low-income families tional average milk production of a dairy TIC FOOD PROGRAMS’’ in title IV of divi- affected by any State-mandated fire. cow; sion C, in the fourth proviso, strike ‘‘That ‘‘(ii) the average number of cows per farm, section 26(d)’’ and insert ‘‘That $15,000,000 SA 3445. Mrs. GILLIBRAND sub- as determined under paragraph (2); shall be available to carry out section 18(g) mitted an amendment intended to be ‘‘(iii) the value of production less total of the Richard B. Russell National School proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- costs, as determined under paragraph (3); and Lunch Act (42 U.S.C. 1769(g)): Provided fur- 1 posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. ‘‘(iv) ⁄2; and ther, That section 26(d)’’. 6147, making appropriations for the De- ‘‘(B) 100. At the appropriate place in division C, in- ‘‘(2) AVERAGE NUMBER OF COWS PER FARM.— sert the following: partment of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year The average number of cows per farm under FARMERS’ MARKET AND LOCAL FOOD PROMOTION paragraph (1)(A)(ii) shall be determined PROGRAM ending September 30, 2019, and for based on the report described in paragraph SEC. ll. For necessary expenses to carry other purposes; which was ordered to (1) as follows: out the Farmers’ Market and Local Food lie on the table; as follows: ‘‘(A) In the case of a farm with fewer than Promotion Program as authorized by section At the appropriate place in title VII of di- 50 cows, the national average number of cows 6 of the Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Mar- vision C, insert the following: per farm in farms with fewer than 50 cows. keting Act of 1976 (7 U.S.C. 3005), $10,000,000, SEC. ll. Section 19(a)(2)(B) of the Food ‘‘(B) In the case of a farm with not fewer to remain available until September 30, 2020. and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. than 50 cows and not greater than 199 cows, 2028(a)(2)(B)) is amended by adding at the end the national average number of cows per SA 3443. Ms. SMITH (for herself and the following: farm in farms with not fewer than 50 cows Ms. KLOBUCHAR) submitted an amend- ‘‘(iii) ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE FOR DISASTER and not greater than 199 cows. ment intended to be proposed to RECOVERY EFFORTS IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF ‘‘(C) In the case of a farm with not fewer amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. PUERTO RICO FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019.— than 200 cows and not greater than 499 cows, ‘‘(I) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the national average number of cows per Due to the needs associated with disaster re- appropriations for the Department of farm in farms with not fewer than 200 cows covery efforts in the Commonwealth of Puer- and not greater than 499 cows. the Interior, environment, and related to Rico, in addition to amounts made avail- ‘‘(D) In the case of a farm with not fewer agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- able under clause (i), there is authorized to than 500 cows, the national average number tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; be appropriated not more than $400,000,000 for of cows per farm in farms with not fewer which was ordered to lie on the table; fiscal year 2019 to make additional payments than 500 cows. as follows: to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for the ‘‘(3) VALUE OF PRODUCTION LESS TOTAL At the end of title I, add the following: expenditures and expenses described in COSTS.—The value of production less total SEC. lll. (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this sec- clause (i). costs under paragraph (1)(A)(iii) shall be de- tion: ‘‘(II) APPROPRIATION IN ADVANCE.—Except termined based on the report described in (1) PRAIRIE ISLAND RESERVATION.—The term as provided in subclause (III), only amounts paragraph (1) as follows: ‘‘Prairie Island Reservation’’ means the appropriated under subclause (I) in advance ‘‘(A) In the case of a farm with fewer than Prairie Island Indian Community Reserva- specifically for the expenditures and ex- 50 cows, the national value of production less tion in Goodhue County, Minnesota. penses described in clause (i) shall be avail- total costs in farms with fewer than 50 cows. (2) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ able for payment to the Commonwealth of ‘‘(B) In the case of a farm with not fewer means the Secretary of the Interior. Puerto Rico for the expenditures and ex- than 50 cows and not greater than 199 cows, (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the penses described in that clause. the national value of production less total Prairie Island Indian Community, a federally ‘‘(III) OTHER FUNDS.—Funds appropriated costs in farms with not fewer than 50 cows recognized Indian tribe. under subclause (I) shall be in addition to and not greater than 199 cows. (b) STUDY OF FEDERAL LANDS.— funds made available under clause (i).’’. ‘‘(C) In the case of a farm with not fewer (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall carry than 200 cows and not greater than 499 cows, out an analysis to determine whether land SA 3446. Mrs. GILLIBRAND sub- the national value of production less total within the Federal domain is suitable for ad- mitted an amendment intended to be costs in farms with not fewer than 200 cows dition to the Prairie Island Reservation. proposed by her to the bill H.R. 6147, and not greater than 499 cows.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.042 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5279 ‘‘(D) In the case of a farm with not fewer tive extension services, institutions of high- polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater than 500 cows, the national value of produc- er education, and nonprofit organizations flows in not less than 5 regions. tion less total costs in farms with not fewer grants to carry out programs and provide (b) The Director, in consultation with the than 500 cows. technical assistance to promote innovation, Administrator, is encouraged to develop a ‘‘(d) PAYMENT LIMITATION.—The amount of process improvement, and marketing relat- public information campaign to inform im- a payment under this section to an eligible ing to dairy products, and the amount made pacted communities and the general public dairy farmer described in subsection (b) shall available under the heading ‘‘AGRICULTURE of potential exposure to perfluoroalkyl and not be greater than $15,000. BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES (INCLUDING TRANS- polyfluoroalkyl substances resulting from ‘‘(e) FUNDING.—Of the funds of the Com- FERS OF FUNDS)’’ in title I of division C shall releases in groundwater. modity Credit Corporation, the Secretary be $51,330,000. (c) Not later than 15 months after the date shall use to carry out this section of enactment of this Act and annually there- $500,000,000.’’. SA 3451. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an after, the Director, in consultation with the amendment intended to be proposed by Administrator, shall submit to the Com- SA 3447. Mr. JONES submitted an her to the bill H.R. 6147, making appro- mittee on Environment and Public Works of amendment intended to be proposed to priations for the Department of the In- the Senate, the Committee on Energy and amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. Natural Resources of the Senate, the Com- terior, environment, and related agen- mittee on Energy and Commerce of the SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making cies for the fiscal year ending Sep- appropriations for the Department of House of Representatives, and the Com- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; mittee on Natural Resources of the House of the Interior, environment, and related which was ordered to lie on the table; Representatives a report that describes the agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- as follows: findings of the study completed under sub- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; At the appropriate place in title VII of di- section (a). which was ordered to lie on the table; vision C, insert the following: as follows: SEC. ll. Section 750 of division A of the SA 3454. Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for him- On page 17, line 4, strike ‘‘$88,910,000’’ and Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (Pub- self, Ms. MURKOWSKI, and Mr. MURPHY) insert ‘‘$91,910,000’’. lic Law 115–141), is amended by striking submitted an amendment intended to On page 17, line 14, strike ‘‘$5,000,000’’ and ‘‘That for’’ and inserting ‘‘That any fee for be proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- insert ‘‘$8,000,000’’. switching or routing of benefits imposed by a posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. On page 40, line 7, strike ‘‘$134,673,000’’ and nonaffiliated subcontractor of any con- 6147, making appropriations for the De- insert ‘‘$131,673,000’’. tractor of a State shall not be prohibited if partment of the Interior, environment, no portion of that fee is shared with or oth- and related agencies for the fiscal year SA 3448. Mr. MERKLEY submitted an erwise received by the State or the State’s amendment intended to be proposed to contractor (or any affiliate of that con- ending September 30, 2019, and for amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. tractor): Provided further, That for’’. other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SA 3452. Mr. SANDERS submitted an appropriations for the Department of At the appropriate place in division C, in- amendment intended to be proposed to sert the following: the Interior, environment, and related amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- RESEARCH ON OCEAN AGRICULTURE SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SEC. lll. (a) The Secretary of Agri- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; appropriations for the Department of which was ordered to lie on the table; culture, in coordination with the Adminis- the Interior, environment, and related trator of the National Oceanic and Atmos- as follows: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- pheric Administration, shall establish a In section 737 of division C, in the proviso, tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; working group (referred to in this section as strike ‘‘entities’’ and insert ‘‘entities, or which was ordered to lie on the table; the ‘‘working group’’)— comparable entities that provide energy effi- as follows: (1) to study how mangroves, kelp forests, ciency services using their own billing mech- tidal marshes, and seagrass meadows could anism,’’. At the appropriate place in title VII of di- help deacidify the oceans; vision D, insert the following: (2) to study emerging ocean farming prac- SA 3449. Mr. CASEY submitted an SEC. ll. None of the funds made available tices that use kelp and seagrass to deacidify amendment intended to be proposed by by this Act may be used to implement, ad- the oceans while providing feedstock for ag- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- minister, or enforce the final rule entitled riculture and other commercial and indus- ‘‘Food Labeling: Revision of the Nutrition propriations for the Department of the trial inputs; and and Supplement Facts Labels’’ (81 Fed. Reg. (3) to coordinate and conduct research to Interior, environment, and related 33742 (May 27, 2016)) to the extent that the agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- develop and enhance pilot-scale research for rule requires that the nutrition facts panel farming of kelp and seagrass in order— tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; on the labeling of a single-ingredient food (A) to deacidify ocean environments; which was ordered to lie on the table; that does not contain any added sugars or (B) to produce a feedstock for agriculture; as follows: sweeteners (such as honey or maple syrup) and include a statement that the food contains In the matter under the heading ‘‘SPECIAL (C) to develop other scalable commercial added sugars. SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR applications for kelp, seagrass, or products WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN (WIC)’’ under derived from kelp or seagrass. Mr. SANDERS submitted an the heading ‘‘FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE’’ SA 3453. (b) The working group shall include— under the heading ‘‘DOMESTIC FOOD PRO- amendment intended to be proposed to (1) the Secretary of Agriculture; GRAMS’’ in title IV of division C, in the first amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (2) the Administrator of the National Oce- proviso, strike ‘‘$60,000,000’’ and insert SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making anic and Atmospheric Administration; ‘‘$80,000,000’’. appropriations for the Department of (3) representatives of any relevant offices the Interior, environment, and related within the National Oceanic and Atmos- SA 3450. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- pheric Administration; and (4) the Assistant Secretary of Energy for amendment intended to be proposed to tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. which was ordered to lie on the table; (c) Not later than 2 years after the date of SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making as follows: enactment of this Act, the working group appropriations for the Department of On page 142, between lines 16 and 17, insert shall submit to Congress a report that in- the Interior, environment, and related the following: cludes— agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- STUDY OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND (1) the findings of the research described in tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES IN GROUND- subsection (a); which was ordered to lie on the table; WATER (2) the results of the pilot-scale research described in subsection (a)(3); and as follows: SEC. 433. (a) Not later than 1 year after the (3) any policy recommendations based on At the appropriate place in title VII of di- date of enactment of this Act, the Director those findings and results. vision C, insert the following: of the United States Geological Survey (re- SEC. ll. (a) There is appropriated ferred to in this section as the ‘‘Director’’), Mr. MERKLEY submitted an $7,000,000 to the Secretary of Agriculture for in consultation with the Administrator of SA 3455. marketing activities authorized under sec- the Environmental Protection Agency (re- amendment intended to be proposed to tion 204(b) of the Agricultural Marketing Act ferred to in this section as the ‘‘Adminis- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1623(b)) to provide to State trator’’), shall complete a study to monitor SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making departments of agriculture, State coopera- the flow of perfluoroalkyl and appropriations for the Department of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.034 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5280 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 the Interior, environment, and related for exploration, development, or production private and nonprofit organizations, or any agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- of oil or natural gas in any area of the outer other interested individuals; and tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; Continental Shelf off the coasts of the States (5) identify cost estimates for any Federal which was ordered to lie on the table; of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, acquisition, development, interpretation, op- Rhode Island, or Connecticut. eration, and maintenance associated with as follows: the alternatives. At the end of title VII of division B, insert SA 3459. Ms. HEITKAMP (for herself (d) The study required under subsection (b) the following: and Mr. CARPER) submitted an amend- shall be conducted in accordance with sec- SEC. lll. None of the funds appropriated ment intended to be proposed to tion 100507 of title 54, United States Code. or otherwise made available by this Act or amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (e) Not later than 3 years after the date on any other Act may be used— which funds are first made available to carry SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (1) to prevent a Member of Congress from out the study under subsection (b), the Sec- entering, for the purpose of conducting over- appropriations for the Department of retary shall submit to the Committee on sight, any facility located in the United the Interior, environment, and related Natural Resources of the House of Rep- States at which alien minors are housed or agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- resentatives and the Committee on Energy otherwise detained; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; and Natural Resources of the Senate a report (2) to require any Member of Congress to which was ordered to lie on the table; that describes— coordinate through a Congressional entity as follows: (1) the results of the study; and for their entry into, for the purpose of con- On page 239, line 19, insert before the pe- (2) any conclusions and recommendations ducting oversight, any facility described in of the Secretary. paragraph (1); or riod at the end the following: ‘‘: Provided fur- (3) to make any temporary modification at ther, That none of the funds made available under this Act or any other Act may be used SA 3462. Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for her- a facility described in paragraph (1) that in self, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. MURPHY, any way alters what is observed by a visiting to take any action that would impair the ful- fillment of the universal service obligation and Mr. SCHUMER) submitted an Member of Congress, compared to what amendment intended to be proposed by would be observed in the absence of such of the United States Postal Service or lead modification. toward the privatization of the United her to the bill H.R. 6147, making appro- States Postal Service’’. priations for the Department of the In- SA 3456. Mr. MERKLEY submitted an terior, environment, and related agen- SA 3460. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself amendment intended to be proposed to cies for the fiscal year ending Sep- and Mr. SANDERS) submitted an amend- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ment intended to be proposed to SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making which was ordered to lie on the table; amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. appropriations for the Department of as follows: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the Interior, environment, and related At the end of division B, add the following: appropriations for the Department of agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SEC. ll. None of the funds contained in the Interior, environment, and related tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; this Act may be used to enforce section 540 agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- of Public Law 110–329 (122 Stat. 3688) or sec- which was ordered to lie on the table; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; tion 538 of Public Law 112–74 (125 Stat. 976; 6 as follows: which was ordered to lie on the table; U.S.C. 190 note). On page 151, line 13, strike ‘‘$250,000,000’’ and insert ‘‘$255,000,000’’. as follows: At the appropriate place in title II of divi- SA 3463. Mr. CARPER (for himself On page 211, line 16, strike ‘‘$9,633,450,000’’ sion A, insert the following: and Ms. HEITKAMP) submitted an and insert ‘‘$9,628,450,000’’. SEC. 2ll. None of the funds made avail- amendment intended to be proposed to SA 3457. Mr. JONES submitted an able by this Act shall be used to rescind, re- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. amendment intended to be proposed to voke, or otherwise modify the document of SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the Administrator of the Environmental amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. appropriations for the Department of Protection Agency entitled ‘‘Endangerment the Interior, environment, and related SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making and Cause or Contributing Findings for appropriations for the Department of Greenhouse Gases under Section 202(a) of the agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the Interior, environment, and related Clean Air Act’’ and dated December 7, 2009. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- which was ordered to lie on the table; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3461. Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for her- as follows: which was ordered to lie on the table; self and Mr. SCHUMER) submitted an At the end of division B (before the short as follows: amendment intended to be proposed to title), add the following: At the appropriate place in division B, in- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. TITLE IX—POSTAL SERVICE REFORM sert the following: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SECTION 901. SHORT TITLE. SEC. ll. The Office of Advocacy of the appropriations for the Department of This title may be cited as the ‘‘Postal Small Business Administration shall conduct the Interior, environment, and related Service Reform Act of 2018’’. a study on the best practices in and benefits agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SEC. 902. TABLE OF CONTENTS. of matchmaking programs for small business tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; The table of contents for this title is as fol- concerns owned and controlled by veterans which was ordered to lie on the table; lows: that utilize industry data and business leads as follows: Sec. 901. Short title. provided by entities, such as chambers of On page 142, between lines 16 and 17, insert Sec. 902. Table of contents. commerce, to match those veterans with the following: Sec. 903. Definitions. business opportunities in their industry of SUBTITLE A—POSTAL PERSONNEL interest or geographic location. FORT ONTARIO SPECIAL RESOURCE STUDY SEC. 433. (a) In this section: Sec. 921. Postal Service Health Benefits Pro- SA 3458. Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for him- (1) The term ‘‘Secretary’’ means the Sec- gram. Sec. 922. Postal Service retiree health care self, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, retary of the Interior. benefit funding reform. Mr. REED, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. MARKEY, (2) The term ‘‘study area’’ means Fort On- tario in Oswego, New York. Sec. 923. Medicare part B premium subsidy Mr. MURPHY, Ms. WARREN, Mr. KING, (b) The Secretary shall conduct a special for newly enrolling Postal Serv- and Ms. COLLINS) submitted an amend- resource study of the study area. ice annuitants and family mem- ment intended to be proposed to (c) In conducting the study under sub- bers. amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. section (b), the Secretary shall— Sec. 924. Postal Service pension funding re- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (1) evaluate the national significance of form. appropriations for the Department of the study area; Sec. 925. Supervisory and other managerial organizations. the Interior, environment, and related (2) determine the suitability and feasi- bility of designating the study area as a unit Sec. 926. Right of appeal to Merit Systems agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- of the National Park System; Protection Board. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; (3) consider other alternatives for preserva- SUBTITLE B—POSTAL SERVICE which was ordered to lie on the table; tion, protection, and interpretation of the OPERATIONS REFORM as follows: study area by the Federal Government, Sec. 941. Governance reform. At the end of title I of division A, add the State or local government entities, or pri- Sec. 942. Modernizing postal rates. following: vate and nonprofit organizations; Sec. 943. Nonpostal services. SEC. 1ll. None of the funds made avail- (4) consult with interested Federal agen- Sec. 944. Shipping of wine, beer, and dis- able by this Act may be used to issue a lease cies, State or local governmental entities, tilled spirits.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0655 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.041 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5281 Sec. 945. Efficient and flexible universal ical insurance benefits under part B of title subsection (e) and any savings or subsidies postal service. XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. resulting from subsection (f). Sec. 946. Fair stamp-evidencing competi- 1395j et seq.); ‘‘(3) ACTUARIALLY EQUIVALENT COVERAGE.— tion. ‘‘(6) the term ‘Medicare part D’ means the The Office shall ensure that each carrier par- Sec. 947. Market-dominant rates. Medicare insurance program established ticipating in the Postal Service Health Bene- Sec. 948. Review of Postal Service cost attri- under part D of title XVIII of the Social Se- fits Program provides coverage under the bution guidelines. curity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–101 et seq.); PSHBP plans offered by the carrier that is Sec. 949. Aviation security for parcels. ‘‘(7) the term ‘Office’ means the Office of actuarially equivalent, as determined by the Sec. 950. Long-term solvency plan; annual Personnel Management; Director of the Office, to the coverage that financial plan and budget. ‘‘(8) the term ‘Postal Service’ means the the carrier provides under the health bene- Sec. 951. Service standards, performance United States Postal Service; fits plans offered by the carrier under the targets, and performance meas- ‘‘(9) the term ‘Postal Service annuitant’ Federal Employee Health Benefits Program urements. means an annuitant enrolled in a health ben- that are not PSHBP plans. Sec. 952. Postal Service Chief Innovation Of- efits plan under this chapter whose Govern- ‘‘(4) APPLICABILITY OF FEDERAL EMPLOYEE ficer. ment contribution is paid by the Postal HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS.— Sec. 953. Emergency suspensions of post of- Service or the Postal Service Retiree Health Except as otherwise set forth in this section, fices. Benefits Fund under section 8906(g)(2); all provisions of this chapter applicable to Sec. 954. Mailing address requirements. ‘‘(10) the term ‘Postal Service employee’ health benefits plans offered by a carrier under section 8903 or 8903a shall apply to SUBTITLE C—POSTAL CONTRACTING means an employee of the Postal Service en- PSHBP plans. REFORM rolled in a health benefits plan under this chapter; ‘‘(5) APPLICATION OF CONTINUATION COV- Sec. 961. Contracting provisions. ‘‘(11) the term ‘Postal Service Health Bene- ERAGE.—In accordance with rules established Sec. 962. Technical amendment to defini- fits Program’ means the program of health by the Office, section 8905a shall apply to tion. benefits plans established under subsection PSHBP plans in the same manner as that SUBTITLE D—POSTAL REGULATORY (c) within the Federal Employees Health section applies to other health benefits plans COMMISSION, INSPECTOR GENERAL, Benefits Program under this chapter; offered under this chapter. RELATED PROVISIONS, AND MIS- ‘‘(12) the term ‘Postal Service Medicare eli- ‘‘(d) ELECTION OF COVERAGE.— CELLANEOUS gible annuitant’ means an individual who— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3), each Postal Service Sec. 981. Postal Regulatory Commission. ‘‘(A) is a Postal Service annuitant; and employee and Postal Service annuitant who Sec. 982. Inspector General of the United ‘‘(B) is a Medicare eligible individual; elects to receive health benefits coverage States Postal Service and the ‘‘(13) the term ‘PSHBP plan’ means a under this chapter— Postal Regulatory Commission. health benefits plan offered under the Postal ‘‘(A) shall be subject to the requirements Sec. 983. GAO report on fragmentation, Service Health Benefits Program; and under this section; and overlap, and duplication in Fed- ‘‘(14) the term ‘qualified carrier’ means a ‘‘(B) may only enroll in a PSHBP plan. eral programs and activities. carrier for which the total enrollment in the ‘‘(2) ANNUITANTS.—A Postal Service annu- plans provided under this chapter includes, SEC. 903. DEFINITIONS. itant shall not be subject to this section if in the contract year beginning in January of In this title, the following definitions shall the Postal Service annuitant— apply: the year before the initial contract year, a ‘‘(A) is enrolled in a health benefits plan (1) COMMISSION.—The term ‘‘Commission’’ combined total of 1,500 or more enrollees who under this chapter for the contract year be- means the Postal Regulatory Commission. are— fore the initial contract year that is not a (2) POSTAL RETAIL FACILITY.—The term ‘‘(A) Postal Service employees; or health benefits plan offered by an initial par- ‘‘postal retail facility’’— ‘‘(B) Postal Service annuitants. ticipating carrier, unless the Postal Service (A) means a post office, post office branch, ‘‘(b) APPLICATION OF SECTION.—The require- annuitant voluntarily enrolls in a PSHBP post office classified station, or other facil- ments under this section shall— plan; ity that is operated by the Postal Service, ‘‘(1) apply to the initial contract year, and ‘‘(B) resides in a geographic area— the primary function of which is to provide each contract year thereafter; and ‘‘(i) for which there is not a PSHBP plan in retail postal services; and ‘‘(2) supersede other provisions of this which the Postal Service annuitant may en- (B) does not include a contractor-operated chapter to the extent of any specific incon- roll; or facility offering postal services. sistency, as determined by the Office. ‘‘(ii) in which there is a lack of partici- (3) POSTAL SERVICE.—The term ‘‘Postal ‘‘(c) ESTABLISHMENT OF THE POSTAL SERV- pating Medicare part B providers; or Service’’ means the United States Postal ICE HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM.— ‘‘(C) would not derive benefit from enroll- Service. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Office shall estab- ing in Medicare part B because of com- Subtitle A—Postal Personnel lish the Postal Service Health Benefits Pro- prehensive medical coverage provided by the gram, which shall— Department of Veterans Affairs or other pro- SEC. 921. POSTAL SERVICE HEALTH BENEFITS ‘‘(A) consist of health benefits plans of- grams. PROGRAM. fered under this chapter; ‘‘(3) EMPLOYEES.—A Postal Service em- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.— ‘‘(B) include plans offered by— ployee who is enrolled in a health benefits (1) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 89 of title 5, ‘‘(i) each qualified carrier; and plan under this chapter for the contract year United States Code, is amended by inserting ‘‘(ii) any other carrier determined appro- immediately preceding the initial contract after section 8903b the following: priate by the Office; year that is not a health benefits plan of- ‘‘§ 8903c. Postal Service Health Benefits Pro- ‘‘(C) be available for participation by all fered by an initial participating carrier shall gram Postal Service employees, in accordance not be subject to the requirements under ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— with subsection (d); this section, except that— ‘‘(1) the term ‘initial contract year’ means ‘‘(D) be available for participation by all ‘‘(A) if the Postal Service employee the contract year beginning in January of Postal Service annuitants, in accordance changes enrollment to a different health the first full year that begins not less than 7 with subsection (d); benefits plan under this chapter during the months after the date of enactment of this ‘‘(E) not be available for participation by open season for the initial contract year, or section; an individual who is not a Postal Service em- after the start of the initial contract year, ‘‘(2) the term ‘initial participating carrier’ ployee or Postal Service annuitant (except the Postal Service employee may only enroll means a carrier that enters into a contract as a family member of such an employee or in a PSHBP plan; with the Office to participate in the Postal annuitant); and ‘‘(B) if the health benefits plan in which Service Health Benefits Program during the ‘‘(F) be implemented and administered by the Postal Service employee is enrolled for initial contract year; the Office. such contract year becomes available as a ‘‘(3) the term ‘Medicare eligible individual’ ‘‘(2) SEPARATE POSTAL SERVICE RISK POOL.— PSHBP plan, the Postal Service employee means an individual who— The Office shall ensure that each PSHBP may only enroll in a PSHBP plan; ‘‘(A) is entitled to Medicare part A, but ex- plan includes rates, one for enrollment as an ‘‘(C) upon becoming a Postal Service annu- cluding an individual who is eligible to en- individual, one for enrollment for self plus itant, if the Postal Service employee elects roll under such part under section 1818 of the one, and one for enrollment for self and fam- to continue coverage under this chapter, the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i–2); and ily within each option in the PSHBP plan, Postal Service employee shall enroll in a ‘‘(B) is eligible to enroll in Medicare part that reasonably and equitably reflect the PSHBP plan during— B; cost of benefits provided to a risk pool con- ‘‘(i) the open season that is being held ‘‘(4) the term ‘Medicare part A’ means the sisting solely of Postal Service employees when the Postal Service employee becomes a Medicare program for hospital insurance and Postal Service annuitants (and family Postal Service annuitant; or benefits under part A of title XVIII of the members of such employees and annuitants), ‘‘(ii) if the date on which the Postal Serv- Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395c et seq.); taking into specific account the reduction in ice employee becomes a Postal Service annu- ‘‘(5) the term ‘Medicare part B’ means the benefits cost for the PSHBP plan due to the itant falls outside of an open season, the Medicare program for supplementary med- Medicare enrollment requirements under first open season following that date; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5282 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 ‘‘(D) subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) shall tion drug plan under Medicare part D pursu- about the Postal Service Health Benefits not apply to an employee who resides in a ant to the provisions of section 1860D–22(b) Program or Medicare enrollment.’’. geographic area for which there is not a (commonly referred to as an ‘employer group (2) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- PSHBP plan in which the employee may en- waiver plan’). For purposes of the preceding MENTS.— roll. sentence, the carrier offering the PSHBP (A) Section 8903(1) of title 5, United States ‘‘(e) REQUIREMENT OF MEDICARE ENROLL- plan shall be deemed to be the sponsor of the Code, is amended by striking ‘‘two levels of MENT.— plan for purposes of Medicare part D. benefits’’ and inserting ‘‘2 levels of benefits ‘‘(1) POSTAL SERVICE MEDICARE ELIGIBLE AN- ‘‘(g) POSTAL SERVICE CONTRIBUTION.— for enrollees under this chapter generally NUITANTS.—A Postal Service Medicare eligi- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subsection (i), and 2 levels of benefits for enrollees under ble annuitant subject to this section may for purposes of applying section 8906(b) to the Postal Service Health Benefits Program not continue coverage under the Postal Serv- the Postal Service, the weighted average established under section 8903c’’. ice Health Benefits Program unless the Post- shall be calculated in accordance with para- (B) The table of sections for chapter 89 of al Service Medicare eligible annuitant en- graphs (2) and (3). title 5, United States Code, is amended by in- rolls in Medicare part A, Medicare part B, ‘‘(2) WEIGHTED AVERAGE CALCULATION.—Not serting after the item relating to section and Medicare part D (as part of a prescrip- later than October 1 of each year (beginning 8903b the following: tion drug plan described in subsection (f)(2)). with the year before the initial contract ‘‘8903c. Postal Service Health Benefits Pro- ‘‘(2) MEDICARE ELIGIBLE FAMILY MEMBERS.— year), the Office shall determine the weight- gram.’’. If a family member of a Postal Service annu- ed average of the rates established pursuant (b) COORDINATION WITH MEDICARE.— itant who is subject to this section is a Medi- to subsection (c)(2) for PSHBP plans that (1) MEDICARE ENROLLMENT AND COVERAGE.— care eligible individual, the family member will be in effect during the following con- Section 1837 of the Social Security Act (42 may not be covered under the Postal Service tract year with respect to— U.S.C. 1395p) is amended by adding at the end Health Benefits Program as a family mem- ‘‘(A) enrollments for self only; the following new subsection: ber of the Postal Service annuitant unless ‘‘(B) enrollments for self plus one; and ‘‘(m)(1) In the case of an individual who— the family member enrolls in Medicare part ‘‘(C) enrollments for self and family. ‘‘(A) is (i) a Postal Service Medicare eligi- A, Medicare part B, and Medicare part D (as ‘‘(3) WEIGHTING IN COMPUTING RATES FOR ble annuitant, or (ii) an individual who is a part of a prescription drug plan described in INITIAL CONTRACT YEAR.—In determining such family member of such an annuitant and is a subsection (f)(2)). weighted average of the rates for the initial Medicare eligible individual; ‘‘(3) PROCESS FOR COORDINATED ELECTION OF contract year, the Office shall take into ac- ‘‘(B) enrolls in a PSHBP plan under section ENROLLMENT UNDER MEDICARE PART B.—The count (for purposes of section 8906(a)(2)) the 8903c of title 5, United States Code; and Office shall establish a process under which— enrollment of Postal Service employees and ‘‘(C) is not enrolled under this part, ‘‘(A) Postal Service annuitants and family annuitants in the health benefits plans of- the individual is deemed, in accordance with members who are subject to the require- fered by the initial participating carriers as section 8903c(e)(3) of such title, to have elect- ments of paragraph (1) or (2)— of March 31 of the year before the initial con- ed to be enrolled under this part. ‘‘(i) are informed, at the time of enroll- tract year. ‘‘(2) In the case of an individual who is ment under this chapter, of such require- ‘‘(h) RESERVES.— deemed to have elected to be enrolled under ment; and ‘‘(1) SEPARATE RESERVES.— paragraph (1), the coverage period under this ‘‘(ii) except as provided in paragraph (4), as ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Office shall ensure part shall begin on the date that the indi- a consequence of such enrollment are that each PSHBP plan maintains separate vidual first has coverage under the PSHBP deemed to have elected to be enrolled under reserves (including a separate contingency plan pursuant to the enrollment described in Medicare part B (under subsection (m)(1) of reserve) with respect to the enrollees in the paragraph (1)(B). section 1837 of the Social Security Act (42 PSHBP plan in accordance with section 8909. ‘‘(3) The provisions of section 1838(b) shall U.S.C. 1395p)) in connection with the enroll- ‘‘(B) REFERENCES.—For purposes of the apply to an individual who is deemed to have ment in a PSHBP plan under this chapter; Postal Service Health Benefits Program, elected to be enrolled under paragraph (1). and each reference to ‘the Government’ in sec- ‘‘(4) The Secretary, the Commissioner of ‘‘(B) the Office provides the Secretary of tion 8909 shall be deemed to be a reference to Social Security, the United States Postal Health and Human Services and the Commis- the Postal Service. Service, and the Office of Personnel Manage- sioner of Social Security in a timely manner ‘‘(C) AMOUNTS TO BE CREDITED.—The re- ment shall coordinate to monitor premiums with such information respecting such annu- serves (including the separate contingency paid by individuals who are deemed to have itants and family members and such election reserve) maintained by each PSHBP plan elected to be enrolled under paragraph (1) for as may be required to effect their enrollment shall be credited with a proportionate purposes of determining whether those indi- and coverage under Medicare part B and this amount of the funds in the existing reserves viduals are in compliance with the applica- section in a timely manner. for health benefits plans offered by an initial ble requirements under section 8903c(e) of ‘‘(4) WAIVER FOR EXTREME FINANCIAL HARD- participating carrier. title 5, United States Code. SHIP.— ‘‘(2) DISCONTINUATION OF PSHBP PLAN.—In ‘‘(5) The definitions in section 8903c(a) of ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Postal Service, in applying section 8909(e) relating to a PSHBP title 5, United States Code, shall apply for consultation with recognized labor organiza- plan that is discontinued, the Office shall purposes of this subsection.’’. tions and management organizations, shall credit the separate Postal Service contin- (2) WAIVER OF INCREASE OF PREMIUM.—Sec- establish a waiver program under which the gency reserve maintained under paragraph tion 1839(b) of the Social Security Act (42 requirement to enroll in Medicare part B (1) for that plan only to the separate Postal U.S.C. 1395r(b)) is amended by inserting after under paragraph (1) or (2), as applicable, is Service contingency reserves of the PSHBP ‘‘section 1837,’’ the following: ‘‘and not pur- waived for Postal Service annuitants and plans continuing under this chapter. suant to a deemed enrollment under sub- family members who demonstrate extreme ‘‘(i) NO EFFECT ON EXISTING LAW.—Nothing financial hardship. in this section shall be construed as affecting section (m) of such section during the open ‘‘(B) EFFECT OF WAIVER.—If the applicable section 1005(f) of title 39 regarding vari- season for the initial contract year (as de- requirement described in subparagraph (A) is ations, additions, or substitutions to the pro- fined in section 8903c(a) of title 5, United waived for a Postal Service annuitant or visions of this chapter. States Code) of the Postal Service Health family member— ‘‘(j) MEDICARE EDUCATION PROGRAM.—Not Benefits Program,’’. ‘‘(i) the Postal Service shall notify the Of- later than 180 days after the date of enact- (3) CONFORMING COORDINATION OF BENEFIT fice of the waiver; and ment of this section, the Postal Service shall RULES.—Section 1862(b) of the Social Secu- ‘‘(ii) the annuitant or family member shall establish a Medicare Education Program, rity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395y(b)) is amended by not be deemed to have elected to be enrolled under which the Postal Service shall— adding at the end the following: under Medicare part B as described in para- ‘‘(1) notify annuitants and employees of ‘‘(10) COORDINATION OF BENEFITS WITH POST- graph (3)(A)(ii). the Postal Service about the Postal Service AL SERVICE HEALTH BENEFITS PLANS.—Para- ‘‘(f) MEDICARE COORDINATION.— Health Benefits Program; graphs (1) through (9) shall apply except to ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Office shall require ‘‘(2) provide information regarding the the extent that the Secretary, in consulta- each PSHBP plan to provide benefits for Postal Service Health Benefits Program to tion with the Office of Personnel Manage- Medicare eligible individuals pursuant to the such annuitants and employees, including— ment, determines those paragraphs to be in- standard coordination of benefits method ‘‘(A) a description of the health care op- consistent with section 8903c(f) of title 5, used under this chapter, rather than the ex- tions available under the Postal Service United States Code.’’. clusion method or the carve-out method. Health Benefits Program; SEC. 922. POSTAL SERVICE RETIREE HEALTH ‘‘(2) MEDICARE PART D PRESCRIPTION DRUG ‘‘(B) the requirement that annuitants be CARE BENEFIT FUNDING REFORM. BENEFITS.—The Office shall require each enrolled in Medicare under subsection (e)(1); (a) CONTRIBUTIONS.—Section 8906(g) of title PSHBP plan to provide qualified prescription and 5, United States Code, is amended— drug coverage for Postal Service annuitants ‘‘(C) the premium subsidies under section (1) by striking ‘‘(2)(A) The Government’’ and family members who are part D eligible 923 of the Postal Service Reform Act of 2018; and inserting ‘‘(2)(A)(i) The Government’’; individuals (as defined in section 1860D– and and 1(a)(3)(A) of the Social Security Act (42 ‘‘(3) respond and provide answers to any in- (2) in paragraph (2)— U.S.C. 1395w–101(a)(3)(A)) under a prescrip- quiry from such annuitants and employees (A) in subparagraph (A)—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5283 (i) in clause (i), as added by paragraph (1), ‘‘(i) 80 percent of the Postal Service actu- ‘‘(C) The United States Postal Service by striking ‘‘shall through September 30, arial liability as of September 30 of the pre- shall make each payment required under 2016, be paid’’ and all that follows and insert- ceding fiscal year; and subparagraph (B) without regard to whether ing the following: ‘‘shall be paid as provided ‘‘(ii) the value of the assets of the Postal the United States Postal Service has com- in clause (ii).’’; and Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund as of pleted the annual installment payments re- (ii) by adding at the end the following: September 30 of the preceding fiscal year.’’; quired under paragraph (4)(B)(ii), as sched- ‘‘(ii) With respect to the Government con- (5) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated— uled under paragraph (3)(A). tributions required to be paid under clause (A) in subparagraph (A)— ‘‘(6) Computations under this subsection (i)— (i) in clause (iii), by adding ‘‘and’’ at the shall be based on— ‘‘(I) the portion of the contributions that is end; ‘‘(A) economic and actuarial methods and equal to the amount of the net claims costs (ii) in clause (iv), by striking the semi- assumptions consistent with the methods under the enrollment of the individuals de- colon at the end and inserting a period; and and assumptions used in determining the scribed in clause (i) shall be paid from the (iii) by striking clauses (v) through (x); Postal surplus or supplemental liability Postal Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund (B) in subparagraph (B)— under section 8348(h); and up to the amount contained in the Fund; and (i) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘paragraph (1)’’ ‘‘(B) any other methods and assumptions, ‘‘(II) any remaining amount shall be paid and inserting ‘‘paragraph (1), except to the including a health care cost trend rate, that by the United States Postal Service.’’; and extent the payment would cause the value of the Director of the Office determines to be (B) by adding at the end the following: the assets in the Fund to exceed the Postal appropriate. ‘‘(C) For purposes of this paragraph, the Service actuarial liability’’; and ‘‘(7)(A) The Office shall provide to the amount of the net claims costs under the en- (ii) in clause (ii)— United States Postal Service any data nec- rollment of an individual described in sub- (I) by inserting ‘‘except as provided in sub- essary for computations under this sub- paragraph (A)(i) shall be the amount, as de- paragraph (C),’’ before ‘‘any’’; and section. termined by the Office over any particular (II) by striking ‘‘paragraph (2)(B).’’ and in- ‘‘(B) Upon computing an amount or sched- period of time, equal to the difference be- serting ‘‘paragraph (3).’’; and ule under this subsection for a fiscal year, tween— (C) by adding at the end the following: the United States Postal Service shall pro- ‘‘(C)(i) Upon request by the United States ‘‘(i) the sum of— vide the data used for the computation to Postal Service, the Postal Regulatory Com- ‘‘(I) the costs incurred by a carrier in pro- the Postal Regulatory Commission for re- mission may waive the annual installment viding health services to, paying for health view of the computation. payment required to be made in a fiscal year services provided to, or reimbursing expenses ‘‘(C) Not later than 30 days after receiving under subparagraph (B)(ii) if the United data from the United States Postal Service for health services provided to, the indi- States Postal Service meets conditions es- vidual and any other person covered under under subparagraph (B), the Postal Regu- tablished by the Postal Regulatory Commis- latory Commission, in consultation with the the enrollment of the individual; and sion related to— ‘‘(II) an amount of indirect expenses rea- United States Postal Service, shall— ‘‘(I) financial stability and retained earn- ‘‘(i) determine whether the amount or sonably allocable to the provision, payment, ings; and or reimbursement described in subclause (I), schedule was computed in accordance with ‘‘(II) the capability to maintain a high this subsection; as determined by the Office; and level of service. ‘‘(ii) the amount withheld from the annu- ‘‘(ii) if the amount or schedule was com- ‘‘(ii) If the Postal Regulatory Commission puted in accordance with this subsection, ity of the individual or otherwise paid by the waives the annual installment payment re- submit to the Office a certification that the individual under this section. quired to be made in a fiscal year under sub- amount or schedule is the definitive amount ‘‘(D) Any computation by the Office under paragraph (B)(ii)— or schedule for that fiscal year; and this section that relates to an individual de- ‘‘(I) for purposes of any financial reporting ‘‘(iii) if the amount or schedule was not scribed in subparagraph (A)(i) of this para- by the United States Postal Service, the pay- computed in accordance with this sub- graph shall be made in consultation with the ment shall be deemed to have been made; section, request that the Office recompute United States Postal Service.’’. and the amount or schedule. (b) POSTAL SERVICE RETIREE HEALTH BENE- ‘‘(II) the United States Postal Service shall ‘‘(D)(i) Not later than 30 days after receiv- FITS FUND.—Section 8909a(d) of title 5, extend the liquidation schedule under para- ing a request from the Postal Regulatory United States Code, is amended— graph (3)(A) by 1 year. Commission under subparagraph (C)(iii), the (1) in paragraph (1)— ‘‘(iii) If the United States Postal Service Office shall recompute the amount or sched- (A) by striking ‘‘Office’’ and inserting does not request a waiver of the annual in- ule. ‘‘United States Postal Service’’; and stallment payment required to be made in a fiscal year under subparagraph (B)(ii) and ‘‘(ii) If the Office recomputes an amount or (B) by striking ‘‘required under section schedule under clause (i), the recomputed 8906(g)(2)(A)’’ and inserting the following: does not make the payment, the United States Postal Service may not increase rates amount or schedule shall be the definitive ‘‘required to be paid from the Postal Service amount or schedule for that fiscal year for Retiree Health Benefits Fund under section for market-dominant products under section 3622 of title 39 during the following fiscal purposes of this subsection.’’; and 8906(g)(2)(A)(ii)(I)’’; (8) by adding at the end the following: (2) by striking paragraphs (2) and (4); year.’’; (6) by redesignating paragraph (6) as para- ‘‘(9) In this subsection, the term ‘Postal (3) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- Service actuarial liability’ means the dif- graph (4); graph (8); (7) by striking paragraph (5) and inserting ference between— (4) by inserting after paragraph (1) the fol- ‘‘(A) the net present value of future pay- lowing: the following: ‘‘(5)(A) Concurrently with each computa- ments required to be paid from the Postal ‘‘(2) The United States Postal Service shall tion or recomputation under paragraph (3), Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund under make sufficient payments into the Fund, in the United States Postal Service shall com- section 8906(g)(2)(A)(ii)(I) for current and fu- accordance with paragraphs (4) and (5)(B), so pute the amount, as of the date of the com- ture United States Postal Service annu- that the value of the assets of the Fund is putation, that is equal to the difference be- itants; and equal to the Postal Service actuarial liabil- tween— ‘‘(B) the net present value as computed ity. ‘‘(i) the Postal Service actuarial liability under paragraph (1) attributable to the fu- ‘‘(3)(A) Not later than June 30, 2020, the as of September 30 of the preceding fiscal ture service of United States Postal Service United States Postal Service shall compute, year; and employees. and by June 30 of each succeeding year, the ‘‘(ii) the value of the assets of the Postal ‘‘(10) For purposes of computing an amount United States Postal Service shall recom- Service Retiree Health Benefits Fund as of under paragraph (1) or (9)(A), section pute, a schedule including a series of annual September 30 of the preceding fiscal year. 8906(g)(2)(A)(ii)(I) shall be applied as though installments that provide for the liquidation ‘‘(B) If the United States Postal Service ‘up to the amount contained in the Fund’ of the amount described under subparagraph disposes of any property owned or leased by were struck.’’. (B) (regardless of whether the amount is a li- the United States Postal Service, and, based (c) CANCELLATION OF CERTAIN UNPAID OBLI- ability or surplus) by September 30 of the on the most recent computation under sub- GATIONS OF THE POSTAL SERVICE.—Any obli- first fiscal year that begins 40 years after the paragraph (A), the amount described in gation of the Postal Service under section date of enactment of the Postal Service Re- clause (i) of that subparagraph is greater 8909a(d)(3)(A) of title 5, United States Code, form Act of 2018 (unless the schedule is ex- than the amount described in clause (ii) of as in effect on the day before the date of en- tended as provided in paragraph that subparagraph, the United States Postal actment of this Act, that remains unpaid as (4)(C)(ii)(II)), including interest at the rate Service shall pay into the Fund the lesser of such date of enactment is canceled. used in the computations under this sub- of— (d) ONE-TIME TRANSFER TO MEDICARE section. ‘‘(i) the amount of net profit to the United FUNDS.— ‘‘(B) The amount described in this subpara- States Postal Service resulting from the dis- (1) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection— graph is the amount, as of the date on which posal of property (as determined by the Post- (A) the term ‘‘applicable fiscal year’’ the applicable computation or recomputa- al Regulatory Commission); or means the first fiscal year beginning on or tion under subparagraph (A) is made, that is ‘‘(ii) the amount computed under subpara- after October 1, 2021, in which the amount equal to the difference between— graph (A). computed under paragraph (3)(B) of section

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(ii) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by striking the amended by subsection (b)) is a surplus; and 1396 et seq.); period at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and (B) the term ‘‘Medicare fund’’ means— (4) the term ‘‘Medicare part B’’ means the (iii) by adding at the end the following: (i) the Federal Hospital Insurance Trust Medicare program for supplementary med- ‘‘(C) the product of— Fund under section 1817 of the Social Secu- ical insurance benefits under part B of title ‘‘(i) the normal-cost percentage, as deter- rity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395i); XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. mined for employees (other than employees (ii) the Federal Supplementary Medical In- 1395j et seq.); and covered by subparagraph (B)) of the United surance Trust Fund under section 1841 of (5) the term ‘‘Postal Service annuitant’’ States Postal Service under paragraph (5), such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395t); and has the meaning given the term in section multiplied by (iii) the Medicare Prescription Drug Ac- 8903c(a) of title 5, United States Code, as ‘‘(ii) the aggregate amount of basic pay count under section 1860D–16 of such Act (42 added by section 921 of this title. payable by the United States Postal Service, U.S.C. 1395w–116). (b) SUBSIDIES.—With respect to the month- for the period involved, to employees of the (2) TRANSFER REQUIRED.—Not later than 30 ly Medicare part B premium payments of eli- United States Postal Service.’’; and days after the date on which the schedule gible individuals (taking into account any (B) by adding at the end the following: under paragraph (3)(A) of section 8909a(d) of adjustments, including those under sub- ‘‘(5)(A) In determining the normal-cost title 5, United States Code (as amended by sections (b) and (i) of section 1839 of the So- percentage for employees of the United subsection (b)) in the applicable fiscal year is cial Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395r)), the Post- States Postal Service for purposes of para- certified by the Commission or recomputed al Service— graph (1)(C), the Office shall use— by the Office of Personnel Management, as (1) in the initial contract year, shall sub- ‘‘(i) demographic factors specific to such applicable under paragraph (6) of such sec- sidize 75 percent of the Medicare part B pre- employees, unless such data cannot be gen- tion 8909a(d)— mium payments; erated; and (A) the Secretary of Health and Human (2) in the first year after the initial con- ‘‘(ii) economic assumptions regarding wage Services shall— tract year, shall subsidize 50 percent of the and salary growth that reflect the specific (i) estimate the amount of the increased Medicare part B premium payments; and past, and likely future, pay for such employ- expenditures required from the Medicare (3) in the second year after the initial con- ees. ‘‘(B) The United States Postal Service funds, including the amount required from tract year, shall subsidize 25 percent of the shall provide any data or projections the Of- each such fund, by reason of the require- Medicare part B premium payments. (c) FUND.—The Postal Service shall estab- fice requires in order to determine the nor- ments under section 8903c(e) of title 5, mal-cost percentage for employees of the United States Code (as added by section lish a fund to provide the subsidies required under subsection (b). United States Postal Service, consistent 921(a)(1) of this title) for the 10-year period with subparagraph (A). beginning on the date of enactment of this SEC. 924. POSTAL SERVICE PENSION FUNDING REFORM. ‘‘(C) The Office shall review the determina- Act; and tion of the normal-cost percentage for em- (ii) notify the Secretary of the Treasury (a) CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT SYSTEM.— Section 8348(h) of title 5, United States Code, ployees of the United States Postal Service and the Postal Service of the amount esti- and make such adjustments as the Office is amended— mated under clause (i); and considers necessary— (1) in paragraph (2), by striking subpara- (B) the Secretary of the Treasury shall ‘‘(i) upon request of the United States graphs (B) and (C) and inserting the fol- transfer from the Postal Service Retiree Postal Service, but not more frequently than Health Benefits Fund to the Medicare funds lowing: ‘‘(B) The Office shall redetermine the Post- once each fiscal year; and an amount equal to the amount estimated by al surplus or supplemental liability as of the ‘‘(ii) at such other times as the Office con- the Secretary of Health and Human Services close of the fiscal year, for each fiscal year siders appropriate. under subparagraph (A)(i), in accordance ‘‘(6) For the purpose of carrying out sub- beginning after September 30, 2016. Subject with paragraph (3) of this subsection. section (b)(1)(B), and consistent with para- to subparagraph (C), beginning June 15, 2019, (3) DISTRIBUTION.—An amount transferred graph (5), for fiscal year 2018, and each fiscal if the result is a surplus or a supplemental li- under subparagraph (B) of paragraph (2) shall year thereafter, the Office shall use— ability, the Office shall establish an amorti- be divided among the Medicare funds in pro- ‘‘(A) demographic factors specific to cur- zation schedule, including a series of annual portion to the increased expenditures re- rent and former employees of the United installments commencing on September 30 of quired from each such fund, as estimated by States Postal Service, unless such data can- the subsequent fiscal year, which provides the Secretary of Health and Human Services not be generated; and for the liquidation of the surplus or liability under subparagraph (A)(i) of that paragraph. ‘‘(B) economic assumptions regarding wage to the Postal Service or the Fund (as the (e) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- and salary growth that reflect the specific case may be) by September 30, 2044. MENT.—The heading of section 8909a of title past, and likely future, pay for current em- ‘‘(C) Not later than June 30, 2034, the Office 5, United States Code, is amended by strik- ployees of the United States Postal Serv- shall determine, and thereafter shall redeter- ing ‘‘Benefit’’ and inserting ‘‘Benefits’’. ice.’’; and mine as necessary, but not more frequently (f) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of (2) in subsection (b)— than once per year, the appropriate date by Congress that nothing in this section or the (A) by redesignating paragraph (5) as para- which to complete the liquidation of any re- amendments made by this section is in- graph (6); and maining surplus or liability determined tended to establish a precedent with respect (B) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- under this paragraph. The appropriate date to Federal employees at large, given that the lowing: shall be determined in accordance with gen- Postal Service is a unique entity within the ‘‘(5)(A) In this paragraph, the term ‘postal Federal Government and benefits for em- erally accepted actuarial practices and prin- funding surplus’ means the amount by which ployees of the Postal Service are only par- ciples and shall not be later than 15 years the amount of the supplemental liability tially integrated with benefits for Federal after the date on which the determination is computed under paragraph (1)(B) is less than employees at large. made.’’; and zero. SEC. 923. MEDICARE PART B PREMIUM SUBSIDY (2) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(B) If the amount of supplemental liabil- FOR NEWLY ENROLLING POSTAL ‘‘(4) For the purpose of carrying out para- ity computed under paragraph (1)(B) as of SERVICE ANNUITANTS AND FAMILY graph (1), for fiscal year 2018 and each fiscal the close of any fiscal year after the date of MEMBERS. year thereafter, the Office shall use— enactment of the Postal Service Reform Act (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— ‘‘(A) demographic factors specific to cur- of 2018 is less than zero, the Office shall es- (1) the term ‘‘eligible individual’’ means a rent and former employees of the United tablish an amortization schedule, including a Postal Service annuitant, or a family mem- States Postal Service, unless such data can- series of equal annual installments that— ber of a Postal Service annuitant, who— not be generated; and ‘‘(i) provide for the liquidation of the post- (A) newly enrolls in Medicare part B dur- ‘‘(B) economic assumptions regarding wage al funding surplus in 30 years, commencing ing the open season for the initial contract and salary growth that reflect the specific on September 30 of the subsequent fiscal year pursuant to a deemed enrollment under past, and likely future, pay for current em- year; and subsection (m) of section 1837 of the Social ployees of the United States Postal Serv- ‘‘(ii) shall be transferred to the Postal Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395p), as added by ice.’’. Service Fund.’’. section 921 of this title; and (b) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYS- SEC. 925. SUPERVISORY AND OTHER MANAGE- (B) is not eligible for Medicare cost-shar- TEM LIABILITY ASSUMPTION REFORM.—Sec- RIAL ORGANIZATIONS. ing or any other subsidies for Medicare part tion 8423 of title 5, United States Code, is Not later than 3 years after the date of en- B premium payments; amended— actment of this Act, the Inspector General of (2) the term ‘‘initial contract year’’ has the (1) in subsection (a)— the Postal Service shall submit to Congress meaning given the term in section 8903c(a) of (A) in paragraph (1)— a report on compliance by the Postal Service title 5, United States Code, as added by sec- (i) in subparagraph (A)— with outcomes of consultative discussions tion 921 of this title; (I) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘subparagraph under section 1004(e) of title 39, United (3) the term ‘‘Medicare cost-sharing’’ (B)),’’ and inserting ‘‘subparagraph (B) or States Code, held with postal management means Medicare cost-sharing described in (C)),’’; and organizations on changes in, or termination section 1905(p)(3)(A)(ii) of the Social Security (II) in clause (ii), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the of, pay policies and schedules and fringe ben- Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d(p)(3)(A)(ii)) under a State end; efit programs for members of the postal

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management organization, including ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The terms of the 5 Gov- ‘‘§ 402. Delegation of authority changes in, or termination of, policies gov- ernors shall be 7 years, except that the terms ‘‘(a) POSTMASTER GENERAL.—The Post- erning pay-for-performance systems covering of the 5 Governors first taking office shall master General may delegate his or her au- supervisory and management employees. expire as designated by the President at the thority under such terms, conditions, and SEC. 926. RIGHT OF APPEAL TO MERIT SYSTEMS time of appointment, 1 at the end of 1 year, limitations, including the power of redelega- PROTECTION BOARD. 1 at the end of 2 years, 1 at the end of 3 tion, as he or she determines desirable. The Section 1005(a)(4)(A)(ii)(I) of title 39, years, 1 at the end of 4 years, and 1 at the Postmaster General may establish such com- United States Code, is amended to read as end of 5 years, following the appointment of mittees of officers and employees of the follows: the first of them. Any Governor appointed to Postal Service, and delegate such powers to ‘‘(I) is an employee of the Postal Service or fill a vacancy before the expiration of the any committee, as the Postmaster General the Office of the Inspector General who is term for which the Governor’s predecessor determines appropriate to carry out his or not represented by a bargaining representa- was appointed shall serve for the remainder her functions and duties. Delegations under tive recognized under section 1203; and’’. of such term. A Governor may continue to this section shall be consistent with other Subtitle B—Postal Service Operations serve after the expiration of the Governor’s provisions of this title, shall not relieve the Reform term until such Governor’s successor has Postmaster General of full responsibility for qualified, but not to exceed one year. SEC. 941. GOVERNANCE REFORM. the carrying out the Postmaster General’s ‘‘(2) LIMITATION.—No individual may serve duties and functions, and shall be revocable (a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.— more than 2 terms as a Governor. by the Postmaster General. (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 202 of title 39, ‘‘(d) STAFF.—The Chair of the Board of ‘‘(b) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.—The Board United States Code, is amended to read as Governors shall ensure that the Board has follows: may establish such committees of the Board, appropriate independent staff to carry out and delegate such powers to any committee, ‘‘§ 202. Board of Governors the roles and responsibilities of the Board as the Board determines appropriate to carry ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—There is established in and the Governors.’’. out its functions and duties. Delegations to the Postal Service a Board of Governors (2) APPLICATION.—Any individual serving committees shall be consistent with other composed of 5 Governors, a Postmaster Gen- as a Governor on the Board of Governors of provisions of this title, shall not relieve the eral, and a Deputy Postmaster General, all the Postal Service on the date of enactment Board of full responsibility for the carrying of whom shall be appointed in accordance of this Act shall continue to serve as a Gov- out of its duties and functions, and shall be with this section. The Governors shall have ernor until the term applicable to such indi- revocable by the Board in its exclusive judg- the power to— vidual expires (as determined under section ment.’’. 202(b) of title 39, United States Code, as in ef- ‘‘(1) exercise the powers of the Postal Serv- (e) INTERNATIONAL POSTAL ARRANGE- fect before the amendments made by this ice, consistent with section 203(c); MENTS.— section take effect pursuant to subsection ‘‘(2) appoint, fix the term of service of, and (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 407 of title 39, (g)). remove the Postmaster General; United States Code, is amended by adding at (b) POSTMASTER GENERAL.— ‘‘(3) in consultation with the Postmaster the end the following: (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 203 of title 39, General, appoint, fix the term of service of, ‘‘(f) After submission to the Postal Regu- United States Code, is amended to read as and remove the Deputy Postmaster General; latory Commission by the Department of follows: ‘‘(4) set the strategic direction of postal op- State of the budget detailing the estimated erations and approve the pricing and product ‘‘§ 203. Postmaster General costs of carrying out the activities under strategy for the Postal Service; ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The chief executive offi- this section, and the Commission’s review ‘‘(5) set the compensation of the Post- cer of the Postal Service is the Postmaster and approval of such submission, the Postal master General and the Deputy Postmaster General, appointed pursuant to section Service shall transfer to the Department of General in accordance with private sector 202(a)(2). The alternate chief executive offi- State, from any funds available to the Postal best practices, as determined by the Gov- cer of the Postal Service is the Deputy Post- Service, such sums as may be reasonable, ernors pursuant to section 3686; and master General, appointed pursuant to sec- documented, and auditable for the Depart- ‘‘(6) carry out any other duties specifically tion 202(a)(3). ment of State to carry out such activities.’’. provided for in this title. ‘‘(b) POWERS.—Consistent with the require- (2) APPLICATION.—The amendment made by ‘‘(b) APPOINTMENT; PAY.— ments of this title, the exercise of the power paragraph (1) shall take effect on October 1 ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Governors shall be of the Postal Service shall be vested in the of the first fiscal year beginning after the appointed by the President, by and with the Governors and carried out by the Postmaster date of enactment of this Act. advice and consent of the Senate, not more General in a manner consistent with the (3) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section 633 than 3 of whom may be adherents of the strategic direction and pricing and product of title VI of the Treasury and General Gov- same political party. The Governors shall strategy approved by the Governors. The ernment Appropriations Act, 1999 (Public elect a Chair from among their members. Postmaster General shall, in accordance Law 105–277; 39 U.S.C. 407 note) is amended The Governors shall represent the public in- with bylaws determined appropriate by the by striking subsection (d). terest generally, and shall be chosen solely Board, consult with the Governors and the (f) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- on the basis of their experience in the field of Deputy Postmaster General in carrying out MENTS.—Title 39, United States Code, is public administration, law, or accounting, or such power.’’. amended— on their demonstrated ability in managing (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—The item re- (1) in section 102(3)— organizations or corporations (in either the lating to section 203 in the table of sections (A) by striking ‘‘9 members’’ and inserting public or private sector) of substantial size, for chapter 2 of title 39, United States Code, ‘‘5 members’’; and except that at least 3 of the Governors shall is amended to read as follows: (B) by striking ‘‘section 202(a)’’ and insert- be chosen solely on the basis of their dem- ‘‘203. Postmaster General.’’. ing ‘‘section 202(b)(1)’’; onstrated ability in managing organizations (c) PROCEDURES OF THE BOARD.—Section 205 (2) in section 204— or corporations (in either the public or pri- of title 39, United States Code, is amended to (A) by striking ‘‘the Board’’ and inserting vate sector) that employ at least 10,000 em- read as follows: ‘‘the Postmaster General’’; and ployees. The Governors shall not be rep- (B) by striking ‘‘the Governors and’’; resentatives of specific interests using the ‘‘§ 205. Procedures of the Board of Governors and the Governors (3) in section 207, by striking ‘‘the Board’’ Postal Service, and may be removed only for and inserting ‘‘the Postal Service’’; cause. ‘‘(a) VACANCIES.—Vacancies in the Board (4) in section 414(b)(2), by striking ‘‘the ‘‘(2) COMPENSATION.—Each Governor shall shall not impair the powers of the Board or Governors’’ each place the term appears and receive a salary of $30,000 a year plus $300 a the Governors under this title. inserting ‘‘the Postal Service’’; day for not more than 42 days of meetings ‘‘(b) VOTE.—The Board and the Governors (5) in section 416(c)— each year and shall be reimbursed for travel shall act upon majority vote of those mem- (A) by striking ‘‘the Governors’’ and in- and reasonable expenses incurred in attend- bers who are present, subject to such quorum serting ‘‘the Postal Service’’; and ing meetings of the Board. Nothing in the requirements as the Board and the Gov- (B) by striking ‘‘they’’ and inserting ‘‘the preceding sentence shall be construed to ernors may respectively establish. Postal Service’’; limit the number of days of meetings each ‘‘(c) LIMITATION.—No officer or employee of (6) in section 1011, by striking ‘‘the Board’’ year to 42 days. the United States may serve concurrently as and inserting ‘‘the Postal Service’’; ‘‘(3) CONSULTATION.—In selecting the indi- a Governor. A Governor may hold any other (7) by striking section 2402 and inserting viduals described in paragraph (1) for nomi- office or employment not inconsistent or in the following: nation for appointment to the position of conflict with the Governor’s duties, respon- Governor, the President should consult with sibilities, and powers as an officer of the ‘‘§ 2402. Annual report the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Government of the United States in the ‘‘The Postmaster General shall render an the minority leader of the House of Rep- Postal Service.’’. annual report concerning the operations of resentatives, the majority leader of the Sen- (d) DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY.—Section 402 the Postal Service under this title to the ate, and the minority leader of the Senate. of title 39, United States Code, is amended to President and Congress.’’; ‘‘(c) TERMS OF GOVERNORS.— read as follows: (8) in section 3632—

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(A) by striking the section heading, and in- ‘‘(8) The degree of preparation of mail for (4) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- serting ‘‘Establishment of rates and classes delivery into the postal system performed by MENTS.—Section 3622 of title 39, United of competitive products’’; the mailer and its effect upon improving effi- States Code, is amended— (B) by striking subsection (a) and redesig- ciency and reducing costs to the Postal Serv- (A) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘, within nating subsections (b) and (c) as subsections ice. 18 months after the date of enactment of this (a) and (b), respectively; ‘‘(9) Simplicity of structure for the entire section,’’; and (C) in paragraph (a)(2) (as redesignated by schedule and simple, identifiable relation- (B) in subsection (d)(1)(D) (as redesignated subparagraph (B)), by striking ‘‘and the ships between the rates or fees charged the by paragraph (3)(A)), by striking ‘‘(c)(10)’’ record of the Governors’ proceedings in con- various classes of mail for postal services. and inserting ‘‘(c)(13)’’. nection with such decision’’; ‘‘(10) The importance of pricing flexibility (b) USE OF NEGOTIATED SERVICE AGREE- (D) in paragraph (a)(3) (as redesignated by to encourage increased mail volume and MENTS.— subparagraph (B))— operational efficiency. (1) STREAMLINED REVIEW OF QUALIFYING (i) by striking ‘‘and the record of the pro- ‘‘(11) The relative value to postal users of SERVICE AGREEMENTS FOR COMPETITIVE PROD- UCTS.—Section 3633 of title 39, United States ceedings in connection with such decision’’; the kinds of mail matter entered into the Code, is amended by adding at the end the and postal system and the desirability and jus- following: (ii) by striking ‘‘the Governors consider’’ tification for special classifications and serv- and inserting ‘‘the Postal Service considers’’; ‘‘(c) STREAMLINED REVIEW.—Not later than ices of mail. 90 days after the date of enactment of this and ‘‘(12) The importance of providing classi- (E) by striking ‘‘the Governors’’ each place subsection, after notice and opportunity for fications with extremely high degrees of reli- comment, the Postal Regulatory Commis- the term appears and inserting ‘‘the Postal ability and speed of delivery and of providing Service’’; and sion shall promulgate (and may from time to those that do not require high degrees of re- (9) in the table of sections for chapter 36, time thereafter revise) regulations for liability and speed of delivery. by striking the item relating to section 3632 streamlined after-the-fact review of newly ‘‘(13) The desirability of special classifica- and inserting the following: proposed agreements between the Postal tions for both postal users and the Postal Service and users of the mail that provide ‘‘3632. Establishment of rates and classes of Service in accordance with the policies of rates not of general applicability for com- competitive products.’’. this title, including agreements between the petitive products. Streamlined review shall (g) DELAYED EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amend- Postal Service and postal users, when avail- apply only if agreements are functionally ments made by this section shall take effect able on public and reasonable terms to simi- equivalent to existing agreements that have on the date that is 30 days after the date of larly situated mailers, that— collectively covered attributable costs and enactment of this Act. ‘‘(A) improve the net financial position of collectively improved the net financial posi- SEC. 942. MODERNIZING POSTAL RATES. the Postal Service by reducing Postal Serv- tion of the Postal Service. The regulations (a) ADEQUACY, EFFICIENCY, AND FAIRNESS ice costs or increasing the overall contribu- issued under this subsection shall provide OF POSTAL RATES.— tion to the institutional costs of the Postal that streamlined review shall be concluded (1) OBJECTIVES.—Section 3622(b) of title 39, Service; and not later than 5 business days after the date United States Code, is amended— ‘‘(B) do not cause— on which the agreement is filed with the (A) in paragraph (2), by inserting ‘‘and en- ‘‘(i) unfair competitive advantage for the Commission and shall be limited to approval sure’’ after ‘‘create’’; Postal Service or postal users eligible for the or disapproval of the agreement as a whole (B) in paragraph (3)— agreements; or based on the Commission’s determination of (i) by inserting ‘‘and meet’’ after ‘‘main- ‘‘(ii) unreasonable disruption to the vol- its functional equivalence. Agreements not tain’’; and ume or revenues of other postal users. approved may be resubmitted without preju- (ii) by inserting ‘‘, with a focus on achiev- ‘‘(14) The educational, cultural, scientific, dice under section 3632.’’. ing predictable and consistent delivery’’ be- and informational value to the recipient of (2) SUBMISSION OF SERVICE AGREEMENTS FOR fore the period at the end; mail matter. STREAMLINED REVIEW.—Section 3632(b) of (C) in paragraph (5), by inserting ‘‘estab- ‘‘(15) The need for the Postal Service to in- title 39, United States Code, is amended— lish and’’ before ‘‘maintain’’; crease its efficiency and reduce its costs, in- (A) by redesignating paragraph (4) as para- (D) in paragraph (6), by striking ‘‘process’’ cluding infrastructure costs, to help main- graph (5); and and inserting ‘‘and cost attribution proc- tain high quality, affordable postal services. (B) by inserting after paragraph (3) the fol- esses’’; and ‘‘(16) The value to the Postal Service and lowing: (E) in paragraph (9), by inserting ‘‘(and to postal users of promoting intelligent mail ‘‘(4) RATES FOR STREAMLINED REVIEW.—In ensure appropriate levels of transparency)’’ and of secure, sender-identified mail. the case of rates not of general applicability before the period at the end. ‘‘(17) The importance of stability and pre- for competitive products that the Postal (2) FACTORS.—Section 3622(c) of title 39, dictability of rates to ratepayers. Service considers eligible for streamlined re- United States Code, is amended to read as view under section 3633(c), the Postal Service ‘‘(18) The policies of this title as well as follows: shall cause the agreement to be filed with such other factors as the Commission deter- ‘‘(c) FACTORS.—In establishing or revising the Postal Regulatory Commission by a date mines appropriate.’’. such system, the Postal Regulatory Commis- that is on or before the effective date of any (3) REQUIREMENTS.—Section 3622(d) of title sion shall take into account the following new rate established under the agreement, as 39, United States Code, is amended— factors: the Postal Service considers appropriate.’’. (A) in paragraph (1)— ‘‘(1) The effect of rate increases upon the (3) TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR (i) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) general public and business mail users. SERVICE AGREEMENTS.— through (E) as subparagraphs (C) through ‘‘(2) The available alternative means of (A) CERTAIN INFORMATION REQUIRED TO BE (F), respectively; sending and receiving written communica- INCLUDED IN DETERMINATIONS OF COMPLI- (ii) in subparagraph (F) (as redesignated by tions, information, and letters and other ANCE.—Section 3653 of title 39, United States mail matter at reasonable costs. clause (i)) by striking ‘‘subparagraphs (A) Code, is amended— ‘‘(3) The reliability of delivery timelines and (C)’’ and inserting ‘‘subparagraphs (A) (i) by redesignating subsections (c), (d), and the extent to which the Postal Service is and (D)’’; and and (e) as subsections (d), (e), and (f), respec- meeting its service standard obligations. (iii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) tively; and ‘‘(4) The need to ensure that the Postal the following: (ii) by inserting after subsection (b) the Service has adequate revenues and has taken ‘‘(B) subject to paragraph (4), establish following: appropriate cost-cutting measures to main- postal rates for each group of functionally ‘‘(c) WRITTEN DETERMINATION.—Each an- tain financial stability and meet all legal ob- equivalent agreements between the Postal nual written determination of the Commis- ligations. Service and users of the mail that— sion under this section shall include the fol- ‘‘(5) The extent to which the Postal Service ‘‘(i) cover attributable cost; lowing: has taken actions to increase its efficiency ‘‘(ii) improve the net financial position of ‘‘(1) REQUIREMENTS.—For each group of and reduce its costs. the Postal Service; and functionally equivalent agreements between ‘‘(6) The value of the mail service actually ‘‘(iii) do not cause unreasonable disruption the Postal Service and users of the mail, provided by each class or type of mail service in the marketplace, consistent with sub- whether such group fulfilled requirements to both the sender and the recipient, includ- section (c)(13)(B);’’; and to— ing the collection, mode of transportation, (B) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(A) cover costs attributable; and and priority of delivery. ‘‘(4) GROUP OF FUNCTIONALLY EQUIVALENT ‘‘(B) improve the net financial position of ‘‘(7) The requirement that each class of AGREEMENTS DEFINED.—For purposes of para- the Postal Service. mail or type of mail service bear the direct graph (1)(B), a group of functionally equiva- ‘‘(2) NONCOMPLIANCE.—Any group of func- and indirect postal costs attributable to each lent agreements shall consist of all service tionally equivalent agreements not meeting class or type of mail service through reliably agreements that are functionally equivalent the requirements under subparagraphs (A) identified causal relationships plus that por- to each other within the same market-domi- and (B) of paragraph (1) shall be determined tion of all other costs of the Postal Service nant product, but shall not include agree- to be in noncompliance under this sub- reasonably assignable to such class or type. ments within an experimental product.’’. section.

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‘‘(3) DEFINITION.—For purposes of this sub- the estimated annual reimbursement to the quirements under section 3705, the Postal section, a group of functionally equivalent Postal Service, and the estimated percentage Service shall submit a separate report for agreements shall consist of 1 or more service of attributable Postal Service costs that will each agreement with an agency entered into agreements that are functionally equivalent be covered by reimbursement (with docu- under subsection (a) of this section analyzing to each other within the same market-domi- mentation to support the estimates). the costs, revenues, rates, and quality of nant or competitive product, but shall not ‘‘(c) PUBLIC COMMENT.—Before offering a service for the provision of all services under include agreements within an experimental service under the program, the Postal Serv- such agreement, including information dem- product.’’. ice shall provide for a public comment period onstrating that the agreement satisfies the (B) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—Section of at least 30 days that allows the public to requirements of such subsection (a). 3653(d) of title 39, United States Code (as re- post comments relating to the provision of ‘‘§ 3705. Transparency and accountability for designated by subparagraph (A)), is amended such services on the Postal Service website. nonpostal services by striking ‘‘subsections (c) and (e)’’ and in- The Postal Service shall make reasonable ef- ‘‘(a) ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMISSION.— serting ‘‘subsections (c) and (d)’’. forts to provide written responses to the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days comments on such website at least 30 days SEC. 943. NONPOSTAL SERVICES. after the last day of each year, the Postal before offering such services. (a) NONPOSTAL SERVICES.— Service shall submit to the Postal Regu- ‘‘(d) APPROVAL REQUIRED.—The Postal (1) IN GENERAL.—Part IV of title 39, United latory Commission a report that analyzes Service may not establish the program un- States Code, is amended by inserting after costs, revenues, rates, and quality of service less a majority of the Governors in office chapter 36 the following: for each agreement for the provision of prop- vote to approve the program by a recorded erty and services under this chapter, using ‘‘CHAPTER 37—NONPOSTAL SERVICES vote that is publicly disclosed on the Postal such methodologies as the Commission may ‘‘Sec. Service website. prescribe, and in sufficient detail to dem- ‘‘3701. Purpose. ‘‘(e) APPLICATION OF REPORTING REQUIRE- onstrate compliance with the requirements ‘‘3702. Definitions. MENTS.—For purposes of the reporting re- of this chapter. ‘‘3703. Postal Service program for State gov- quirements under section 3705, the Postal ‘‘(2) SUPPORTING MATTER.—A report sub- ernments. Service shall submit a separate report for mitted under paragraph (1) shall include any ‘‘3704. Postal Service program for other Gov- each agreement with an agency entered into nonpublic annex, the working papers, and ernment agencies. under subsection (a) of this section analyzing any other supporting matter of the Postal ‘‘3705. Transparency and accountability for the costs, revenues, rates, and quality of Service and the Inspector General related to nonpostal services. service for the provision of all services under the information submitted in such report. such agreement, including information dem- ‘‘§ 3701. Purpose ‘‘(b) CONTENT AND FORM OF REPORT.— onstrating that the agreement satisfies the ‘‘The purpose of this chapter is to enable ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Postal Regulatory requirements of paragraphs (1) through (3) of the Postal Service to increase its net reve- Commission shall, by regulation, prescribe such subsection (a). nues through specific nonpostal products and the content and form of the report required ‘‘(f) REGULATIONS REQUIRED.—The Postal services that are expressly authorized by under subsection (a). In prescribing such reg- Regulatory Commission shall issue such reg- this chapter. Postal Service revenues and ex- ulations, the Commission shall give due con- ulations as are necessary to carry out this penses under this chapter shall be funded sideration to— section. through the Postal Service Fund. ‘‘(A) providing the public with timely, ade- ‘‘(g) DEFINITIONS.—For the purpose of this quate information to assess compliance; ‘‘§ 3702. Definitions section— ‘‘(B) avoiding unnecessary or unwarranted ‘‘In this chapter— ‘‘(1) the term ‘local government’ means a administrative effort and expense on the ‘‘(1) the term ‘attributable costs’ has the county, municipality, city, town, township, part of the Postal Service; and meaning given the term ‘costs attributable’ local public authority, school district, spe- ‘‘(C) protecting the confidentiality of in- in section 3631; cial district, intrastate district, council of formation that is commercially sensitive or ‘‘(2) the term ‘nonpostal service’ means a governments, or regional or interstate gov- is exempt from public disclosure under sec- service offered by the Postal Service that— ernment entity; tion 552(b) of title 5. ‘‘(A) is expressly authorized under this ‘‘(2) the term ‘State government’ includes ‘‘(2) REVISED REQUIREMENTS.—The Commis- chapter; and the government of the District of Columbia, sion may, on its own motion or on request of ‘‘(B) is not a postal product or service; and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the any interested party, initiate proceedings to ‘‘(3) the term ‘year’ means a fiscal year. United States Virgin Islands, Guam, Amer- improve the quality, accuracy, or complete- ican Samoa, the Commonwealth of the ‘‘§ 3703. Postal Service program for State gov- ness of Postal Service data required by the Northern Mariana Islands, and any other ter- ernments Commission if— ritory or possession of the United States; ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any ‘‘(A) the attribution of costs or revenues to ‘‘(3) the term ‘tribal government’ means other provision of this title, the Postal Serv- property or services under this chapter has the government of an Indian tribe, as that ice may establish a program to enter into become significantly inaccurate or can be term is defined in section 4 of the Indian agreements with an agency of any State gov- significantly improved; Self-Determination and Education Assist- ernment, local government, or tribal govern- ‘‘(B) the quality of service data provided to ance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304); and ment to provide property and services on be- the Commission for a report under this chap- ‘‘(4) the term ‘United States’, when used in half of such agencies for non-commercial ter has become significantly inaccurate or a geographical sense, means the States, the products and services (referred to in this sec- can be significantly improved; or District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of tion as the ‘program’), but only if such prop- ‘‘(C) such revisions are, in the judgment of Puerto Rico, the United States Virgin Is- erty and services— the Commission, otherwise necessitated by lands, Guam, American Samoa, the Com- ‘‘(1) provide enhanced value to the public, the public interest. monwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, such as by lowering the cost or raising the ‘‘(c) AUDITS.—The Inspector General shall and any other territory or possession of the quality of such services or by making such regularly audit the data collection systems United States. services more accessible; and procedures used in collecting informa- ‘‘(h) CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.—Sub- ‘‘(2) do not interfere with or detract from tion and preparing the report required under section (b) or (c) shall not be construed as re- the value of postal services, including— subsection (a). The results of any such audit quiring the Postal Service to disclose to the ‘‘(A) the cost and efficiency of postal serv- shall be submitted to the Postal Service and public any information— ices; and the Postal Regulatory Commission. ‘‘(1) described in section 410(c); or ‘‘(B) unreasonably restricting access to ‘‘(d) CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.— ‘‘(2) exempt from public disclosure under postal retail service, such as customer wait- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If the Postal Service de- ing time and access to parking; and section 552(b) of title 5. termines that any document or portion of a ‘‘(3) provide a reasonable contribution to ‘‘§ 3704. Postal Service program for other document, or other matter, which it provides the institutional costs of the Postal Service, Government agencies to the Postal Regulatory Commission in a defined as reimbursement that covers at ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Postal Service may nonpublic annex under this section contains least 100 percent of attributable costs of all establish a program to provide property and information that is described in section property and services provided under each services to other Government agencies with- 410(c) or exempt from public disclosure under relevant agreement in each year. in the meaning of section 411, but only if the section 552(b) of title 5, the Postal Service ‘‘(b) PUBLIC NOTICE.—At least 90 days be- program provides a reasonable contribution shall, at the time of providing such matter fore offering a service under the program, to the institutional costs of the Postal Serv- to the Commission, notify the Commission of the Postal Service shall make available to ice, defined as reimbursement by each agen- its determination, in writing, and describe the public on its website— cy that covers at least 100 percent of the at- with particularity the documents (or por- ‘‘(1) the agreement with the agency regard- tributable costs of all property and service tions of documents) or other matter for ing such service; and provided by the Postal Service in each year which confidentiality is sought and the rea- ‘‘(2) a business plan that describes the spe- to such agency. sons therefor. cific service to be provided, the enhanced ‘‘(b) APPLICATION OF REPORTING REQUIRE- ‘‘(2) TREATMENT.—Any information or value to the public, terms of reimbursement, MENTS.—For purposes of the reporting re- other matter described in paragraph (1) to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5288 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 which the Commission gains access under ‘‘(B) to license other goods, products, or otherwise limit or restrict any State, local, this section shall be subject to paragraphs (2) services, the primary purpose of which is to or tribal law that prohibits or regulates the and (3) of section 504(g) in the same manner promote and enhance the image or brand of delivery, shipment, or sale of distilled spir- as if the Commission had received notifica- the Postal Service. its, wine, or malt beverages (as those terms tion with respect to such matter under sec- ‘‘(7) Nothing in this section shall be con- are defined in section 117 of the Federal Al- tion 504(g)(1). strued to prevent the Postal Service from es- cohol Administration Act (27 U.S.C. 211)). ‘‘(e) ANNUAL COMPLIANCE DETERMINATION.— tablishing nonpostal products and services SEC. 945. EFFICIENT AND FLEXIBLE UNIVERSAL ‘‘(1) OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT.— that are expressly authorized by chapter POSTAL SERVICE. Upon receiving a report required under sub- 37.’’. (a) CONDITIONS REGARDING DETERMINATIONS section (a), the Postal Regulatory Commis- (2) SECTION 411.—The last sentence of sec- FOR POST OFFICE CLOSINGS.—Clause (i) of sec- sion shall promptly— tion 411 of title 39, United States Code, is tion 404(d)(2)(A) of title 39, United States ‘‘(A) provide an opportunity for comment amended by striking ‘‘including Code, is amended to read as follows: on such report by any interested party; and reimbursability’’ and inserting ‘‘including ‘‘(i) the effect of such closing or consolida- ‘‘(B) appoint an officer of the Commission reimbursability within the limitations of tion on the community served by such post to represent the interests of the general pub- chapter 37’’. office, including through an analysis of— lic. (3) TREATMENT OF EXISTING NONPOSTAL ‘‘(I) the distance (as measured by public ‘‘(2) DETERMINATION OF COMPLIANCE OR NON- SERVICES.—All individual nonpostal services, roads) to the closest postal retail facility not COMPLIANCE.—Not later than 90 days after re- provided directly or through licensing, that proposed for closing or consolidation under ceiving a report required under subsection are continued pursuant to section 404(e) of the determination; (a), the Postal Regulatory Commission shall title 39, United States Code, shall be consid- ‘‘(II) the characteristics of such location, make a written determination as to whether ered to be expressly authorized by chapter 37 including weather and terrain; the nonpostal activities carried out during of such title (as added by subsection (a)(1)) ‘‘(III) whether commercial mobile service the applicable year were or were not in com- and shall be subject to the requirements of (as defined in section 332 of the Communica- pliance with the provisions of this chapter. such chapter. tions Act of 1934) and commercial mobile For purposes of this paragraph, any case in SEC. 944. SHIPPING OF WINE, BEER, AND DIS- data service (as defined in section 6001 of the which the requirements for coverage of at- TILLED SPIRITS. Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation tributable costs have not been met shall be (a) MAILABILITY.— Act of 2012) are available in at least 80 per- considered to be a case of noncompliance. If, (1) NONMAILABLE ARTICLES.—Section 1716(f) cent of the total geographic area of the ZIP with respect to a year, no instance of non- of title 18, United States Code, is amended by codes served by the postal retail facility pro- compliance is found to have occurred, the de- striking ‘‘mails’’ and inserting ‘‘mails, ex- posed for closing or consolidation; and termination shall be to that effect. Such de- cept to the extent that the mailing is allow- ‘‘(IV) whether fixed broadband Internet ac- termination of noncompliance shall be in- able under section 3001(p) of title 39’’. cess service is available to households in at cluded with the annual compliance deter- (2) APPLICATION OF LAWS.—Section 1161 of least 80 percent of such geographic area at mination required under section 3653. title 18, United States Code, is amended by speeds not less than those sufficient for serv- ‘‘(3) NONCOMPLIANCE.—If a timely written inserting ‘‘, and, with respect to the mailing ice to be considered broadband for purposes determination of noncompliance is made of distilled spirits, wine, or malt beverages of the most recent report of the Federal under paragraph (2), the Postal Regulatory (as those terms are defined in section 117 of Communications Commission under section Commission shall take appropriate action. If the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (27 706 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 (47 the requirements for coverage of attrib- U.S.C. 211)), is in conformity with section U.S.C. 1302);’’. 3001(p) of title 39’’ after ‘‘Register’’. utable costs specified by this chapter are not (b) PRC REVIEW OF DETERMINATIONS TO (b) REGULATIONS.—Section 3001 of title 39, met, the Commission shall, within 60 days CLOSE OR CONSOLIDATE A POST OFFICE.— United States Code, is amended by adding at after the determination, prescribe remedial (1) DEADLINE FOR REVIEW.—Section 404(d)(5) the end the following: action to restore compliance as soon as prac- title 39, United States Code, is amended by ticable, including the full restoration of rev- ‘‘(p)(1) In this subsection, the terms ‘dis- tilled spirits’, ‘wine’, and ‘malt beverage’ striking ‘‘120 days’’ and inserting ‘‘60 days, enue shortfalls during the following year. or a longer period for good cause shown but The Commission may order the Postal Serv- have the same meanings as in section 117 of the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (27 in no event longer than 120 days,’’. ice to discontinue a nonpostal service under (2) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made section 3703 that persistently fails to meet U.S.C. 211). ‘‘(2) Distilled spirits, wine, or malt bev- by paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect cost coverage requirements. erages shall be considered mailable if to an appeal received by the Commission be- ‘‘(4) DELIBERATE NONCOMPLIANCE.—In the mailed— fore the date of enactment of this Act (as de- case of deliberate noncompliance by the ‘‘(A) in accordance with the laws and regu- termined by applying the rules set forth in Postal Service with the requirements of this lations of— section 404(d)(6) of such title). chapter, the Postal Regulatory Commission ‘‘(i) the State, territory, or district of the (c) EXPEDITED PROCEDURES.— may order, based on the nature, cir- United States where the sender or duly au- (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 3661 of title 39, cumstances, extent, and seriousness of the thorized agent initiates the mailing; and United States Code, is amended by adding at noncompliance, a fine (in the amount speci- ‘‘(ii) the State, territory, or district of the the end the following: fied by the Commission in its order) for each United States where the addressee or duly ‘‘(d)(1) The Commission shall issue its incidence of such noncompliance. All re- authorized agent takes delivery; and opinion within 90 days, or a longer period for ceipts from fines imposed under this sub- ‘‘(B) to an addressee who is at least 21 good cause shown but in no event longer section shall be deposited in the general fund years of age— than 120 days, after the receipt of any pro- of the Treasury. ‘‘(i) who provides a signature and presents posal (as referred to in subsection (b)) con- ‘‘(f) REGULATIONS REQUIRED.—The Postal a valid, government-issued photo identifica- cerning an identical or substantially iden- Regulatory Commission shall issue such reg- tion upon delivery; or tical proposal on which the Commission has ulations as are necessary to carry out this ‘‘(ii) the duly authorized agent of whom— issued an opinion within the preceding 5 section.’’. ‘‘(I) is at least 21 years of age; and years. (2) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- ‘‘(II) provides a signature and presents a ‘‘(2) If necessary in order to comply with MENT.—The table of chapters for part IV of valid, government-issued photo identifica- the 90-day requirement under paragraph (1), title 39, United States Code, is amended by tion upon delivery. the Commission may apply expedited proce- inserting after the item relating to chapter ‘‘(3) The Postal Service shall prescribe dures which the Commission shall by regula- 36 the following: such regulations as may be necessary to tion prescribe.’’. ‘‘37. Nonpostal services ...... 3701’’. carry out this subsection.’’. (2) REGULATIONS.—The Commission shall (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments prescribe any regulations necessary to carry (1) SECTION 404.—Section 404(e) of title 39, made by this section shall take effect on the out the amendment made by paragraph (1) United States Code, is amended— earlier of— within 90 days after the date of enactment of (A) in paragraph (2), by inserting after (1) the date on which the Postal Service this Act. ‘‘subsection’’ the following: ‘‘, or any non- issues regulations under section 3001(p) of (3) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made postal products or services authorized by title 39, United States Code, as amended by by this subsection shall apply with respect chapter 37’’; and this section; and to any proposal received by the Commission (B) by adding at the end the following: (2) the date that is 120 days after the date on or after the earlier of— ‘‘(6) Licensing which, before the date of en- of enactment of this Act. (A) the date that is 90 days after the date actment of this paragraph, has been author- (d) NO PREEMPTION OF STATE, LOCAL, OR of enactment of this Act; or ized by the Postal Regulatory Commission TRIBAL LAWS PROHIBITING DELIVERIES, SHIP- (B) the effective date of the regulations for continuation as a nonpostal service may MENTS, OR SALES.—Nothing in this section, prescribed under paragraph (2). not be used for any purpose other than— the amendments made by this section, or (d) ALTERNATE POSTAL ACCESS CHOICE.— ‘‘(A) to continue to provide licensed mail- any regulation promulgated under this sec- Section 404(d) of title 39, United States Code, ing, shipping, or stationery supplies offered tion or the amendments made by this section is amended by striking paragraph (1) and in- as of June 23, 2011; or shall be construed to preempt, supersede, or serting the following:

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‘‘(1) Prior to making a determination (2) CONTENT.—In conducting the review (b) SUBSEQUENT RATE INCREASES.—The re- under subsection (a)(3) as to the necessity for under paragraph (1), the Inspector General instatement described under subsection the closing or consolidation of a post office— shall examine— (a)(1) may not affect the calculation of the ‘‘(A) the Postal Service shall provide ade- (A) changes in the costs for the provision Postal Service’s maximum rate adjustment quate notice of its intention to close or con- of Postal Service operated retail service, authority under subpart C of part 3010 of solidate the post office not later than 60 days both nationwide and in the aggregate for title 39, Code of Federal Regulations (or any before the proposed date of the closing or each of the Level 2, Level 4, Level 6, and successor regulation), for purposes of any consolidation to postal patrons served by the Level 18 post offices for which the hours, rate increase that occurs following such re- post office; functions, or responsibilities changed as a re- instatement. ‘‘(B) the Postal Service shall conduct a sult of the POSTPlan initiative before and (c) COMMISSION REVIEW OF SYSTEM FOR after the implementation of the POSTPlan nonbinding survey on the proposed closing or REGULATING RATES AND CLASSES FOR MAR- initiative; consolidation to allow postal patrons served KET-DOMINANT PRODUCTS.— (B) changes in revenue received by Postal by the post office an opportunity to indicate (1) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection— their preference between or among— Service operated retail service, both nation- (A) the term ‘‘initial rate regulation re- ‘‘(i) the closing or consolidation; and wide and in the aggregate for each of the view’’ means the proceeding conducted under ‘‘(ii) 1 or more alternative options; and Level 2, Level 4, Level 6, and Level 18 post of- the order of the Commission entitled, ‘‘Stat- fices for which the hours, functions, or re- ‘‘(C) if the Postal Service determines that utory Review of the System for Regulating sponsibilities changed as a result of the closing or consolidating the post office is Market Dominant Rates and Classifications’’ POSTPlan initiative before and after the im- necessary— (81 Fed. Reg. 9507 (December 20, 2016)); and plementation of the POSTPlan initiative; ‘‘(i) the Postal Service shall endeavor to (B) the term ‘‘underwater product’’ means (C) a determination of the relative cost provide alternative access to postal services a market-dominant class, product, or type of savings, taking into account any changes in to the postal patrons served by the post of- mail service that does not bear the direct revenue earned, realized on an annual basis fice by the option chosen by the highest and indirect costs attributable to that class, for Level 2, Level 4, Level 6, and Level 18 of- number of survey respondents under sub- product, or type of mail service under cur- fices each in the aggregate and any trends in paragraph (B)(ii); and rent costing procedures. such cost savings; ‘‘(ii) if the Postal Service is unable to pro- (2) UNDERWATER PRODUCTS STUDY.—Not vide alternative access through the option (D) the relative impact on retail access to postal services for individuals served by later than 120 days after the date of enact- identified under clause (i), or if that option ment of this Act, the Commission, without is cost prohibitive— Level 2, Level 4, Level 6, and Level 18 offices each in the aggregate; and delaying completion of the initial rate regu- ‘‘(I) the Postal Service may provide alter- lation review, shall begin a study, in con- native access through a different method; (E) any other factors the Inspector General determines appropriate. junction with the Inspector General of the and Postal Service and including notice and op- ‘‘(II) upon selecting an alternative access (3) REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS.—Upon completion of the review required under portunity for public comment, to— method other than the option identified (A) determine whether and to what extent under clause (i), the Postal Service shall pro- paragraph (1), the Inspector General shall submit to the Postal Service, the Committee any market-dominant classes, products, or vide written notice to the postal patrons on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- types of mail service are underwater prod- served by the post office identifying the al- fairs of the Senate, and the Committee on ucts; ternative access method and explaining why Oversight and Government Reform of the (B) quantify the impact of any operational the option identified under clause (i) was not House of Representatives a report con- decisions of the Postal Service on the direct possible or was cost prohibitive.’’. taining— and indirect costs attributable to any under- (e) APPLICABILITY OF PROCEDURES RELAT- (A) the results of the review; and water products identified under subpara- ING TO CLOSINGS AND CONSOLIDATIONS.— (B) any recommendations resulting from graph (A); and (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 404(d) of title 39, such review. (C) determine whether any operational de- United States Code, as amended by this sec- (4) POSTAL SERVICE REVIEW.—Prior to any cisions of the Postal Service have caused any tion, is amended by adding at the end the hour changes or consolidation decisions re- direct or indirect costs to be inappropriately following: lated to POSTPlan initiative-impacted post attributed to any underwater product identi- ‘‘(7) For purposes of this subsection, the offices, the Postal Service shall— fied under subparagraph (A). term ‘post office’ means a post office and any (A) review the report and any rec- (3) ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS.— other postal retail facility, as defined in sec- ommendations submitted pursuant to para- (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in tion 903 of the Postal Service Reform Act of graph (3); and paragraph (4), the Commission shall supple- 2018.’’. (B) revise any planned efforts regarding ment and modify, as appropriate, the record of proceedings in the initial rate regulation (2) EFFECTIVE DATE.—In the case of any the POSTPlan initiative, as appropriate. post office, as defined in subsection (d) of SEC. 946. FAIR STAMP-EVIDENCING COMPETI- review, taking into account the provisions of section 404 of title 39, United States Code, as TION. this title and the amendments made by this amended by paragraph (1), that, but for that Section 404a(a) of title 39, United States title, before making a determination to— amendment, would not otherwise be subject Code, is amended— (i) modify the system for regulating rates to such subsection (d), the amendments (1) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘or’’ at the and classes for market-dominant products made by subsections (a) and (d) of this sec- end; established under section 3622 of title 39, tion shall be effective with respect to any (2) in paragraph (3), by striking the period United States Code; or closure or consolidation, the proposed effec- at the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and (ii) adopt an alternative system for regu- tive date of which occurs on or after the date (3) by adding at the end the following: lating rates and classes for market-dominant that is 60 days after the date of enactment of ‘‘(4) offer to the public any postage-evi- products. this Act. dencing product or service that does not (B) MINIMUM CONSIDERATIONS.—In comply with any rule or regulation that supplementing or modifying the record under (f) ENHANCED REPORTING ON POSTAL SERV- would be applicable to such product or serv- subparagraph (A)— ICE EFFICIENCY.—Section 3652(a) of title 39, ice if the product or service were offered by (i) the Commission shall, at a minimum, United States Code, is amended— a private company.’’. recalculate the projected liabilities of the (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘and’’ at SEC. 947. MARKET-DOMINANT RATES. Postal Service by reason of the requirements the end; (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF RATE BASELINE.— under section 8903c(e) of title 5, United (2) in paragraph (2), by striking the period Notwithstanding any order of the Commis- States Code (as added by section 921(a)(1) of at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and sion to the contrary— this title) (requiring Medicare-eligible postal (3) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- (1) not earlier than the first Sunday after annuitants enrolled in the Postal Service lowing: the date of enactment of this Act, on a date Health Benefits Program to also enroll in ‘‘(3) which shall provide the overall change selected by the Postmaster General in the Medicare); and in Postal Service productivity and the re- exercise of the Postmaster General’s (ii) if the Commission determines that sulting effect of such change on overall Post- unreviewable discretion, the Postal Service other provisions of this title or the amend- al Service costs during such year, using such shall reinstate, as nearly as is practicable, 50 ments made by this title reduce liabilities or methodologies as the Commission shall by percent of the rate surcharge implemented increase revenues of the Postal Service, the regulation prescribe, if necessary.’’. under section 3622(d)(1)(F) (as redesignated Commission shall incorporate those changes (g) POSTPLAN STUDY.— by this title) that was in effect on April 9, into the calculations of the Commission. (1) IN GENERAL.—Beginning not later than 2016; and (C) CONSIDERATION OF UNDERWATER PROD- 30 days after the date of enactment of this (2) the partially reinstated surcharge rein- UCTS STUDY.—After completing any sup- Act, the Inspector General of the Postal stated pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be plementation and modification of the record Service shall conduct a 1-year review of the considered a part of the rate base for pur- under subparagraph (A) of this paragraph impacts of the POSTPlan post office restruc- poses of determining the percentage changes and quantifying the impact of operational turing plan on Postal Service expenses, rev- in rates when the Postal Service files a no- decisions under paragraph (2)(B), the Com- enue, and retail service provision. tice of rate adjustment. mission shall—

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(i) take into account the impact quantified (d) POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION AU- (ii) the earliest date as of which the Board under paragraph (2)(B) and modify, if appro- THORITY NOT AFFECTED.—Nothing in this sec- of Governors has the number of members re- priate, the record under subparagraph (A) of tion (other than subsection (c)) shall be con- quired for a quorum. this paragraph; strued as affecting the authority of the Com- (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—The long-term sol- (ii) incorporate the findings of the study mission to, by regulation, make such modi- vency plan shall take into account— under paragraph (2) into any subsequent ad- fication or adopt such alternative system for (A) the legal authority of the Postal Serv- justment to rates for underwater products regulating rates and classes for market-dom- ice; identified under subparagraph (A) of that inant products as provided under section 3622 (B) changes in the legal authority and re- paragraph; and of title 39, United States Code. sponsibilities of the Postal Service under (iii)(I) account for the cultural and infor- SEC. 948. REVIEW OF POSTAL SERVICE COST AT- this title and the amendments made by this mational value that underwater products TRIBUTION GUIDELINES. title; identified under paragraph (2)(A) have to the Not later than April 1, 2020, the Commis- (C) projected changes in mail volume; mail; and sion shall initiate a review of the regulations (D) the impact of any regulations that the (II) recognize that— issued pursuant to sections 3633(a) and Postal Service is required to promulgate (aa) the services provided by the Postal 3652(a)(1) of title 39, United States Code, to under Federal law; Service have changed over time; and determine whether revisions are appropriate (E) projected changes in the number of em- (bb) the timely delivery of the underwater to ensure that all direct and indirect costs ployees needed to carry out the responsibil- products identified under paragraph (2)(A) attributable to competitive and market- ities of the Postal Service; impacts the overall value of those products. dominant products are properly attributed (F) the long-term capital needs of the Post- (4) SUBSEQUENT REVIEW REQUIRED IF INITIAL to those products, including by considering al Service, including the need to maintain, REVIEW COMPLETED BEFORE ENACTMENT.—If, the underlying methodologies in deter- repair, and replace facilities and equipment; on or before the date of enactment of this mining cost attribution and considering op- and Act, the Commission completes the initial tions to revise such methodologies. If the (G) the distinctions between market-domi- rate regulation review, the Commission— Commission determines, after notice and op- nant and competitive products. (A) shall determine whether to— portunity for public comment, that revisions (3) REVIEW AND SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS (i) further modify the system for regu- are appropriate, the Commission shall make AND COMMISSION.— lating rates and classes for market-dominant modifications or adopt alternative meth- (A) REVIEW.—Upon receipt of the long-term products established under section 3622 of odologies as necessary. solvency plan, the Board of Governors shall title 39, United States Code; or SEC. 949. AVIATION SECURITY FOR PARCELS. review the long-term solvency plan and may (ii) adopt an alternative system for regu- Not later than 18 months after the date of request that the Postmaster General make lating rates and classes for market-dominant enactment of this Act, the Inspector General changes to the long-term solvency plan. products; and of the Postal Service shall transmit to the (B) SUBMISSION TO CONGRESS AND COMMIS- (B) in making the determination under Committee on Oversight and Government SION.—Not later than 60 days after initial re- subparagraph (A), shall— Reform of the House of Representatives and ceipt of the long-term solvency plan, the (i) take into account the provisions of this the Committee on Homeland Security and Board of Governors shall provide a copy of title and the amendments made by this title; Governmental Affairs of the Senate the re- the long-term solvency plan, together with a (ii) comply with the requirements under sults of a review of the security measures in letter indicating whether and in what re- clauses (i) and (ii) of paragraph (3)(B); and place for parcels carried on air carriers to spects the Board of Governors agrees or dis- (iii) take into account, and incorporate domestic and international destinations for agrees with the measures set out in the long- into any adjustment to rates for underwater which audit trails are generated. The review term solvency plan, to— products identified under subparagraph (A) required under this subsection shall assess, (i) the Committee on Homeland Security of paragraph (2), the impact quantified under at a minimum— and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; subparagraph (B) of that paragraph. (1) the effectiveness of the audit trail cre- (ii) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- (5) APPLICATION OF NEW RATES TO UNDER- ated by postage evidencing systems that ernment Reform of the House of Representa- WATER PRODUCTS.— have been validated under the Federal Infor- tives; and (A) IN GENERAL.—If the Commission modi- mation Processing Standards in accurately (iii) the Commission. fies the system for regulating rates and and consistently identifying the senders of (4) UPDATES.— classes for market-dominant products estab- parcels carried on air carriers; (A) ANNUAL UPDATES REQUIRED.—The Post- lished under section 3622 of title 39, United (2) the effectiveness of the Postal Service’s master General shall update and submit to States Code, or adopts an alternative system in-person identity verification procedures in the Board of Governors the long-term sol- for regulating rates and classes for market- accurately and consistently identifying the vency plan not less frequently than annually dominant products, the Commission— senders of parcels carried on air carriers; and for 5 years after the date of enactment of (i) may not apply any new rates under the (3) the effectiveness of the audit trail gen- this Act. modified or alternative system to under- erated by customs declarations in accurately (B) REVIEW BY BOARD OF GOVERNORS.—The water products until the Commission has— and consistently identifying the senders of Board of Governors shall review and submit (I) completed the study under paragraph parcels carried on air carriers to inter- to Congress and the Commission the updates (2); and national destinations. under this paragraph in accordance with (II) complied with subparagraph (C) of SEC. 950. LONG-TERM SOLVENCY PLAN; ANNUAL paragraph (3). paragraph (3); and FINANCIAL PLAN AND BUDGET. (c) ANNUAL FINANCIAL PLAN AND BUDGET.— (ii) in order to offer as many underwater (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— (1) IN GENERAL.—For each of the first 5 full products as possible for as long as possible, (1) the term ‘‘Board of Governors’’ means fiscal years after the date of enactment of shall establish a process to gradually phase the Board of Governors of the Postal Service; this Act, not later than August 1 of the pre- in the application of any new rates to under- (2) the term ‘‘long-term solvency plan’’ ceding fiscal year, the Postmaster General water products. means the plan required to be submitted by shall submit to the Board of Governors a fi- (B) RETROACTIVE APPLICABILITY.—If, before the Postmaster General under subsection nancial plan and budget for the fiscal year the date of enactment of this Act, the Com- (b)(1); and that is consistent with the goal of achieving mission modifies the system for regulating (3) the term ‘‘solvency’’ means the ability the long-term solvency of the Postal Service. rates and classes for market-dominant prod- of the Postal Service to pay debts and meet (2) CONTENTS OF FINANCIAL PLAN AND BUDG- ucts established under section 3622 of title 39, expenses, including the ability to perform ET.—The financial plan and budget for a fis- United States Code, or adopts an alternative maintenance and repairs, make investments, cal year shall— system for regulating rates and classes for and maintain financial reserves, as necessary (A) promote the financial stability of the market-dominant products, the Commis- to fulfill the requirements under, and com- Postal Service and provide for progress to- sion— ply with the policies of, title 39, United wards the long-term solvency of the Postal (i) shall, effective 90 days after the date of States Code, and other obligations of the Service; enactment of this Act, apply the rates for Postal Service. (B) include the annual budget program of underwater products that were in effect on (b) PLAN FOR THE LONG-TERM SOLVENCY OF the Postal Service under section 2009 of title the day before the date on which the modi- THE POSTAL SERVICE.— 39, United States Code, and the plan of the fied or alternative system took effect; and (1) SOLVENCY PLAN REQUIRED.— Postal Service commonly referred to as the (ii) before applying the rates under the (A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than the date ‘‘Integrated Financial Plan’’; modified or alternative system to under- described in subparagraph (B), the Post- (C) describe lump-sum expenditures by all water products, shall comply with subpara- master General shall submit to the Board of categories traditionally used by the Postal graph (A). Governors a plan describing the actions the Service; (C) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in Postal Service intends to take to achieve (D) describe capital expenditures, together this paragraph shall be construed to affect long-term solvency. with a schedule of projected capital commit- the requirement under subsection (a) relat- (B) DATE.—The date described in this sub- ments and cash outlays of the Postal Serv- ing to reinstatement of the rate surcharge paragraph is the later of— ice, and proposed sources of funding; that was in effect on April 9, 2016, including (i) the date that is 90 days after the date of (E) contain estimates of overall debt (both with respect to underwater products. enactment of this Act; and outstanding and expected to be incurred);

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In preparing the long-term solvency plan or meet the service standards; and (B) REVIEW BY THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS.— an annual financial plan and budget required ‘‘(C) the ability of Postal Service cus- (i) IN GENERAL.—Upon receipt of a financial under this section, the Postal Service shall tomers to receive fair and reliable service. plan and budget under paragraph (1), the base estimates of revenues and expenditures OTICE TO CONGRESS.—On the date on Board of Governors shall promptly review on Federal law as in effect at the time of the ‘‘(2) N the financial plan and budget. preparation of the long-term solvency plan which the Postal Service requests an advi- (ii) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.—In con- or the financial plan and budget. sory opinion under section 3661 with respect ducting the review under this subparagraph, (e) THIRD-PARTY ANALYSIS OF POSTAL to any regulation promulgated or revised the Board of Governors may request any ad- SERVICE FINANCES.—The Commission shall under paragraph (1), the Postal Service shall ditional information it considers necessary enter into a contract with 1 or more inde- notify Congress of the request and the pro- and appropriate to carry out the duties of pendent third parties under which the third posed regulation or revision of a regulation. the Board of Governors. party or parties, in not less than 2 years, ‘‘(c) OBJECTIVES.—The service standards (C) APPROVAL OF FINANCIAL PLAN AND BUDG- shall— shall be designed to achieve the following ob- ET SUBMITTED BY THE POSTMASTER GENERAL.— (1) complete a study that analyzes— jectives: If the Board of Governors determines that (A) the finances of the Postal Service; ‘‘(1) To ensure that the Postal Service the financial plan and budget for a fiscal (B) the finances of, and business trends in, meets the universal service obligation, in- year received under paragraph (1) meets the the overall mailing industry; cluding the obligation to preserve regular requirements under paragraph (2) and other- (C) the demand for market-dominant and and effective access to postal services in all wise adequately addresses the financial situ- competitive products and services in rural, communities, including those in rural areas ation of the Postal Service— urban, and suburban communities; and or where post offices are not self-sustaining. (i) the Board of Governors shall approve (D) revenue changes and cost savings of the ‘‘(2) To enhance the value of postal services the financial plan and budget and submit a Postal Service attributable to recent— to both senders and recipients. notice of approval to each covered recipient; (i) closings and consolidations of proc- ‘‘(3) To assure Postal Service customers de- and essing plants, post offices, and other facili- livery reliability, speed, and frequency con- (ii) the Postmaster General shall submit ties; sistent with reasonable rates and best busi- the annual budget program for the relevant (ii) changes to service standards; and ness practices. fiscal year to the Office of Management and (iii) service performance; and ‘‘(4) To provide a system of objective per- Budget in accordance with section 2009 of (2) submit to the Commission a report on formance measurements for each market- title 39, United States Code. the study conducted under paragraph (1) that dominant product as a basis for measure- (D) DISAPPROVAL OF FINANCIAL PLAN AND includes recommendations on affordable op- ment of Postal Service performance, in ac- BUDGET SUBMITTED BY THE POSTMASTER GEN- tions and timetables for improving postal cordance with subsection (e). ERAL.— operations and services, including— ‘‘(d) FACTORS.—In establishing or revising (i) IN GENERAL.—If the Board of Governors (A) how rural service measurement can be the service standards, the Postal Service determines that the financial plan and budg- made more accurate to ensure that the Post- shall take into account— et for a fiscal year under paragraph (1) does al Service comprehensively measures the ‘‘(1) the actual level of service that Postal not meet the requirements under paragraph mail service provided to each region of the Service customers receive under any service (2) or is otherwise inadequate in addressing United States, regardless of population size guidelines previously established by the the financial situation of the Postal Service, and geographic location; Postal Service or service standards estab- the Board of Governors shall— (B) the feasibility of restoring overnight lished under this section; (I) disapprove the financial plan and budg- service standards for market-dominant prod- ‘‘(2) the degree of customer satisfaction et; ucts similar to the service standards that with Postal Service performance in the ac- (II) submit to each covered recipient a were in effect on July 1, 2012, including an ceptance, processing, and delivery of mail; statement that describes the reasons for the examination of the resources needed, struc- ‘‘(3) the needs of all Postal Service cus- disapproval; tural and operational changes needed, and tomers; (III) direct the Postmaster General to ap- market demand for such a change; and ‘‘(4) mail volume and revenues projected propriately revise the financial plan and (C) recommended definitions for the terms for future years; budget for the Postal Service; and ‘‘rural’’ and ‘‘urban’’ for purposes of meas- ‘‘(5) the projected growth in the number of (IV) submit the revised financial plan and uring the performance of the Postal Service addresses the Postal Service will be required budget to each covered recipient. relative to service standards under section to serve in future years; (ii) SUBMISSION TO OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT 3691 of title 39, United States Code, as ‘‘(6) the current and projected future cost AND BUDGET.—Upon receipt of a revised fi- amended by section 950 of this title. of serving Postal Service customers; nancial plan and budget under clause (i)(IV), SEC. 951. SERVICE STANDARDS, PERFORMANCE ‘‘(7) the effect of changes in technology, de- the Postmaster General shall submit the an- TARGETS, AND PERFORMANCE mographics, and population distribution on nual budget program for the relevant fiscal MEASUREMENTS. the efficient and reliable operation of the year to the Office of Management and Budg- (a) SERVICE STANDARDS, PERFORMANCE postal delivery system; et in accordance with section 2009 of title 39, TARGETS, AND PERFORMANCE MEASURE- ‘‘(8) the financial status of the Postal Serv- United States Code. MENTS.— ice, including the status of any accrued un- (E) DEADLINE FOR TRANSMISSION OF FINAN- (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 3691 of title 39, funded liabilities or obligations; CIAL PLAN AND BUDGET BY BOARD OF GOV- United States Code, is amended to read as ‘‘(9) ensuring that the performance of the ERNORS.—Notwithstanding any other provi- follows: Postal Service is as strong as reasonably sion of this paragraph, not later than Sep- ‘‘§ 3691. Modern service standards, perform- possible under the applicable circumstances, tember 30 of the fiscal year that precedes ance targets, and performance measure- including the factors described in paragraphs each fiscal year for which a financial plan ments (1) through (8); and and budget is required under paragraph (1), ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— ‘‘(10) the policies of this title and such the Board of Governors shall submit to each ‘‘(1) the terms ‘Area’ and ‘District’ mean other factors as the Postal Service deter- covered recipient— the administrative field units established mines appropriate.

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‘‘(e) PERFORMANCE TARGETS, MEASURE- performance targets to be met as soon as is ‘‘3691. Modern service standards, perform- MENTS, AND PUBLICATION.— reasonably practicable, as determined by the ance targets, and performance ‘‘(1) PERFORMANCE TARGETS.— Postal Service; and measurements.’’. ‘‘(A) ESTABLISHMENT.—Each year, the Post- ‘‘(B) if the Postal Service makes best ef- (b) REVIEW OF NATIONWIDE SERVICE STAND- al Service shall establish reasonable targets forts to develop a plan described in subpara- ARD CHANGES.—Section 3661 of title 39, for performance to ensure that mail service graph (A) and determines that achieving United States Code, as amended by section for postal customers meets the service stand- compliance with the performance targets 945 of this title, is amended by adding at the ards for market-dominant products. through such a plan would be impractical, end the following: ‘‘(B) COMPLIANCE DETERMINATION.—For pur- would not be cost effective, and would not be ‘‘(e) CHANGES RELATING TO MARKET-DOMI- poses of section 3653(b)(2), the Commission in the best long-term interest of the Postal NANT PRODUCTS.— shall evaluate the compliance of the Postal Service and its customers, the Postal Service ‘‘(1) INSPECTOR GENERAL REVIEW.—Upon a Service with the service standards for mar- shall make adjustments to the service stand- request by the Postal Service for an advisory ket-dominant products by reference to the ards or performance targets. opinion from the Commission under sub- performance targets. ‘‘(2) POSTAL SERVICE SUBMISSION OF PLAN.— section (b) relating to a nationwide or sub- ‘‘(2) PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT.— Not later than 180 days after the date of non- stantially nationwide change in service ‘‘(A) DEFINITIONS OF URBAN AND RURAL.— compliance with a performance target, the standards for the delivery of market-domi- For purposes of measuring performance Postal Service shall submit to the Commis- nant products, including when the Postal under the performance targets, the Commis- sion— Service establishes new performance targets sion, in consultation with the Postal Serv- ‘‘(A) the plan required under paragraph under section 3691(e), the Inspector General ice— (1)(A); or shall, not later than 90 days after the sub- ‘‘(i) shall promulgate regulations defining ‘‘(B) a report explaining why the Postal mission of the request— the terms— Service is making an adjustment described ‘‘(A) conduct a review of the proposal to ‘‘(I) rural; and in paragraph (1)(B). determine whether— ‘‘(II) urban, which shall be defined by the ‘‘(3) COMMISSION CONSIDERATION OF POSTAL ‘‘(i) the Postal Service formulated the pro- Commission as any geographic area that is SERVICE PLAN.— posal based on accurate data; not defined as rural under subclause (I); and ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission— ‘‘(ii) the Postal Service followed appro- ‘‘(ii) in defining the terms under clause (i), ‘‘(i) shall review each plan or report sub- priate policies and procedures of the Postal shall consider— mitted by the Postal Service under para- Service in formulating the proposal; and ‘‘(I) the recommendations of the report graph (2); and ‘‘(iii) the proposal prioritizes the needs of submitted to the Commission under section ‘‘(ii) may make such recommendations as the postal customer; and 950(e) of the Postal Service Reform Act of the Commission considers appropriate. ‘‘(B) submit a report on the review con- 2018; ‘‘(B) POSTAL SERVICE RESPONSE.—If the ducted under subparagraph (A) to— ‘‘(II) existing definitions of those terms Commission provides recommendations re- ‘‘(i) the Postal Service; that are in use by the Postal Service, the garding a plan or report to the Postal Serv- ‘‘(ii) the Commission; Federal Government, and other sources; and ice under subparagraph (A)(ii), the Postal ‘‘(iii) the Committee on Homeland Secu- ‘‘(III) stakeholder input. Service shall— rity and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; ‘‘(B) PERFORMANCE REPORTING.— ‘‘(i) consider the recommendations; and and ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The Postal Service shall ‘‘(ii) not later than 90 days after the date ‘‘(iv) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- measure and report to the Commission on on which the Postal Service receives the rec- ernment Reform of the House of Representa- the performance of the Postal Service with ommendations, submit a response to the tives. respect to market-dominant products on a Commission explaining the bases for any de- ‘‘(2) COMMISSION REVIEW.—Not earlier than nationwide, Area, and District basis based on cision to accept or reject a recommendation. 30 days after the date on which the Inspector the performance targets, taking into consid- ‘‘(4) POSTAL SERVICE IMPLEMENTATION OF General submits a report on a proposal to eration the Commission’s opinion on any PLAN.—After developing a plan under para- the Commission under paragraph (1), the proposed target, and in a manner that re- graph (1)(A), the Postal Service shall— Commission shall issue its opinion on the flects separate consideration of performance ‘‘(A) implement the plan; and proposal.’’. with respect to— ‘‘(B) in each report provided under section (c) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 180 days after the date on which the report is ‘‘(I) rural customers; and 3652, discuss— submitted to the Commission under section ‘‘(II) urban customers. ‘‘(i) the implementation of the plan; 950(e)(2) of this title, the Commission shall ‘‘(ii) COMMISSION REVIEW.—The Commission ‘‘(ii) the extent to which the Postal Service submit to Congress a report that includes— shall review and comment upon the perform- is improving performance to meet the per- (1) a determination as to whether the serv- ance of the Postal Service as reported under formance targets; and ice standards for market-dominant products clause (i). ‘‘(iii) if the performance targets subject to in effect on the day before the date of enact- ‘‘(3) PUBLICATION.— the plan are still not being met, whether— ment of this Act achieve the objectives and ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subparagraph ‘‘(I) the plan remains sufficient to achieve factors set forth under section 3691 of title (B), the Postal Service shall publish on the compliance within a reasonably practicable 39, United States Code, as amended by this website of the Postal Service the perform- period of time, and is therefore being main- section; and ance targets, the actual measurements under tained; (2) recommendations as to how delivery those targets, and the comments of the Com- ‘‘(II) the plan is being revised; or service to postal customers could be im- mission under paragraph (2)— ‘‘(III) the Postal Service has determined to proved based on the financial condition of ‘‘(i) covering a period designated by the make adjustments described in paragraph the Postal Service. Commission, the length of which shall be not (1)(B) rather than continue with the plan. less than 2 years; and (d) TEMPORARY FLOOR FOR SERVICE STAND- ‘‘(5) COMMISSION REVIEW OF IMPLEMENTA- ‘‘(ii) categorized in accordance with that ARDS.—The Postal Service may not revise TION.— paragraph. the service standards for market-dominant ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In making the deter- ‘‘(B) COMMERCIALLY SENSITIVE OR PROPRI- products in effect on the day before the date mination required under section 3653, the of enactment of this Act in a manner that ETARY INFORMATION.—To the extent that the Commission shall— Postal Service considers any information re- lengthens delivery times before the date on ‘‘(i) review the implementation of each which the report is submitted to the Com- quired to be reported under subparagraph (A) plan developed under paragraph (1)(A); and to be commercially sensitive or proprietary mission under section 950(e)(2) of this title. ‘‘(ii) make such recommendations as the SEC. 952. POSTAL SERVICE CHIEF INNOVATION in nature, the Commission shall determine Commission considers appropriate. the level of information that shall be pub- OFFICER. ‘‘(B) CONSIDERATION.—The Postal Service licly disclosed in accordance with section (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 2 of title 39, shall consider any recommendations under United States Code, is amended by adding at 504(g)(3)(A). subparagraph (A)(ii) in the same manner as ‘‘(f) REVIEW UPON COMPLAINT.—The regula- the end the following: provided under paragraph (3). tions promulgated pursuant to this section ‘‘§ 209. Chief Innovation Officer (and any revisions thereto), and any viola- ‘‘(h) PERIODIC REVIEW OF SERVICE STAND- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—There is established tions thereof, shall be subject to review upon ARDS.—The Commission shall periodically— within the Postal Service the position of complaint under sections 3662 and 3663. ‘‘(1) review the appropriateness of the serv- Chief Innovation Officer, appointed by the ‘‘(g) NONCOMPLIANCE WITH PERFORMANCE ice standards; and Postmaster General, who shall manage the TARGETS.— ‘‘(2) submit to Congress and the Postal Postal Service’s development and implemen- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If the Postal Service Service a report on the review conducted tation of innovative postal and nonpostal fails to meet 1 or more performance tar- under paragraph (1).’’. products and services. gets— (2) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- ‘‘(b) DUTIES.—The primary duties of the ‘‘(A) subject to subparagraph (B), the Post- MENT.—The table of sections for chapter 36 of Chief Innovation Officer are as follows: al Service shall develop a plan to make spe- title 39, United States Code, is amended by ‘‘(1) Leading the development of innovative cific operational corrections under the con- striking the item relating to section 3691 and nonpostal products and services that will trol of the Postal Service that will cause the inserting the following: maximize revenue to the Postal Service.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5293 ‘‘(2) Developing innovative postal products Service shall submit an update to the inno- SEC. 953. EMERGENCY SUSPENSIONS OF POST and services, specifically those that utilize vation strategy submitted under paragraph OFFICES. emerging information technologies, to maxi- (1) to the Committee on Oversight and Gov- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 404 of title 39, mize revenue to the Postal Service. ernment Reform of the House of Representa- United States Code, is amended by adding at ‘‘(3) Implementing the innovation strategy tives, the Committee on Homeland Security the end the following: described under subsection (d). and Governmental Affairs of the Senate, and ‘‘(f) EMERGENCY SUSPENSIONS.— ‘‘(4) Monitoring the performance of innova- the Postal Regulatory Commission. ‘‘(1) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection— ‘‘(A) the terms ‘alternate service’ and tive products and services and revising them ‘‘(e) REPORT.— as needed to meet changing market trends. ‘temporary location’ include a location at ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—On the date of submis- which customers affected by an emergency ‘‘(5) Taking into consideration comments sion of the President’s annual budget under or advisory opinions, if applicable, issued by suspension of a post office, or the expiration section 1105(a) of title 31, the Postmaster of the lease or rental agreement for a post the Postal Regulatory Commission prior to General shall submit to the Committee on the initial sale of innovative postal or non- office, may send and receive mail, which Oversight and Government Reform of the may include the provision and regular serv- postal products and services. House of Representatives, the Committee on ‘‘(c) APPOINTMENT.— icing of a Cluster Box Unit (commonly Homeland Security and Governmental Af- ‘‘(1) DEADLINE.—As soon as practicable known as a ‘CBU’) by the Postal Service; fairs of the Senate, and the Postal Regu- after the date of enactment of the Postal ‘‘(B) the term ‘discontinuance procedures’ latory Commission a report that details the Service Reform Act of 2018, but not later means the procedures required for the dis- Postal Service’s progress in implementing than 6 months after such date, the Post- continuance of a post office under subsection master General shall appoint a Chief Innova- the innovation strategy described under sub- (d) and any regulations promulgated under tion Officer. section (d). that subsection; ‘‘(2) MATTERS TO BE ADDRESSED.—The re- ‘‘(2) REQUIREMENTS.—Any individual ap- ‘‘(C) the term ‘emergency suspension’ pointed to serve as the Chief Innovation Offi- port required under paragraph (1) shall ad- means the temporary suspension of retail op- cer shall have proven expertise and a record dress— erations at a post office, without following of success in at least 1 of the following: ‘‘(A) the revenue generated by each prod- discontinuance procedures for the post of- ‘‘(A) Postal and shipping industry. uct and service developed through the inno- fice, because of— ‘‘(B) Innovation product research and de- vation strategy and the costs of developing ‘‘(i) a natural disaster; velopment. and offering each such product and service ‘‘(ii) the termination of a lease or rental ‘‘(C) Marketing brand strategy. for the most recent fiscal year; agreement by the lessor; ‘‘(D) Emerging communications tech- ‘‘(B) the total sales volume and revenue ‘‘(iii) a lack of qualified personnel to oper- nology. generated by each product and service on a ate the post office; ‘‘(E) Business process management. monthly basis for the preceding year; ‘‘(iv) severe or irreparable damage to, or ‘‘(3) CURRENT OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE ELIGI- ‘‘(C) trends in the markets filled by each destruction of, the post office when alternate BLE.—An officer or employee of the Postal product and service; quarters acceptable to the Postal Service for Service may be appointed to the position of ‘‘(D) products and services identified in the use as a post office are not immediately Chief Innovation Officer under this chapter. innovation strategy that are to be discon- available in the community; Upon appointment to such position, such of- tinued, the date on which the discontinuance ‘‘(v) a challenge to the sanctity of the ficer or employee may not concurrently hold will occur, and the reasons for the dis- mail; or any other position in the Postal Service. continuance; ‘‘(vi) a lack of adequate measures to safe- ‘‘(d) INNOVATION STRATEGY.— ‘‘(E) alterations in products and services guard the post office or its revenues; and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 12 months identified in the innovation strategy that ‘‘(D) the term ‘post office’— after the date on which the Chief Innovation will be made to meet changing market con- ‘‘(i) means a Post Office, as that term is Officer is appointed under subsection (c)(1), ditions, and an explanation of how these al- defined in section 241.1 of title 39, Code of the Postmaster General shall submit to the terations will ensure the success of the prod- Federal Regulations, or any successor regu- Committee on Oversight and Government ucts and services; and lation; and Reform of the House of Representatives, the ‘‘(F) the performance of the innovation ‘‘(ii) includes a post office branch or post Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- strategy according to the metrics identified office station. ernmental Affairs of the Senate, and the in subsection (d)(2)(G). ‘‘(2) AUTHORITY.—The Postal Service may Postal Regulatory Commission a comprehen- ‘‘(f) COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY.— implement an emergency suspension of a sive strategy for maximizing revenues ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Comptroller General post office in accordance with the require- through innovative postal and nonpostal shall conduct a study on the implementation ments under paragraphs (3) through (7). products and services. of the innovation strategy described under ‘‘(3) NOTIFICATION.—If the Postal Service ‘‘(2) MATTERS TO BE ADDRESSED.—The strat- subsection (d) not later than 4 years after implements an emergency suspension of a egy submitted under paragraph (1) shall ad- the date of enactment of the Postal Service post office, the Postal Service shall provide dress— Reform Act of 2018. immediate notice of the suspension to— ‘‘(A) the specific innovative postal and ‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—The study required under ‘‘(A) the relevant local, regional, State, nonpostal products and services to be devel- paragraph (1) shall assess the effectiveness of and Federal officials, including— oped and offered by the Postal Service, in- the Postal Service in identifying, developing, ‘‘(i) each Member of Congress who rep- cluding the nature of the market to be filled and selling innovative postal and nonpostal resents the area in which the affected post by each product and service and the likely products and services. The study shall also office is located; and date by which each product and service will include— ‘‘(ii) the chief executive of each relevant be introduced; ‘‘(A) an audit of the costs of developing unit of local government; and ‘‘(B) the cost of developing and offering each innovative postal and nonpostal prod- ‘‘(B) customers, notification to whom shall each product or service; uct and service developed or offered by the include— ‘‘(C) the anticipated sales volume of each Postal Service during the period beginning ‘‘(i) the effective date of the suspension; product and service; on the date of enactment of the Postal Serv- ‘‘(ii) the reason for the suspension; ‘‘(D) the anticipated revenues and profits ice Reform Act of 2018 and ending 4 years ‘‘(iii) any alternate service available; expected to be generated by each product after such date; ‘‘(iv) the nearest postal retail facility (as and service; ‘‘(B) the sales volume of each such product defined in section 903 of the Postal Service ‘‘(E) the likelihood of success of each prod- and service; Reform Act of 2018) and hours of service; and uct and service as well as the risks associ- ‘‘(C) the revenues and profits generated by ‘‘(v) the name and contact information of ated with the development and sale of each each such product and service; and an individual to contact for more informa- product and service; ‘‘(D) the likelihood of continued success of tion. ‘‘(F) the trends anticipated in market con- each such product and service. ‘‘(4) ALTERNATE SERVICE.—If the Postal ditions that may affect the success of each ‘‘(3) SUBMISSION.—The results of the study Service implements an emergency suspen- product and service over the 5-year period required under this subsection shall be sub- sion of a post office, the Postal Service shall beginning on the date such strategy or up- mitted to the Committee on Oversight and provide alternate drop-off, pick-up, and post date is submitted; Government Reform of the House of Rep- office box services at 1 or more locations ‘‘(G) the metrics that will be utilized to as- resentatives, the Committee on Homeland that are as close as feasible to the suspended sess the effectiveness of the innovation Security and Governmental Affairs of the post office. strategy; and Senate, and the Postal Regulatory Commis- ‘‘(5) EMPLOYEE REASSIGNMENT.—If the Post- ‘‘(H) the specific methods by which sion.’’. al Service implements an emergency suspen- mailpiece design analysis may be improved sion of a post office, the Postal Service shall (b) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- to speed the approval process and promote temporarily reassign each employee of the MENT.—The table of sections for chapter 2 of the increased use of innovative mailpiece de- post office in accordance with each applica- title 39, United States Code, is amended by sign. ble Federal statute, Federal regulation, and adding at the end the following: ‘‘(3) STRATEGY UPDATES.—On January 1, collective bargaining agreement. 2020, and every 3 years thereafter, the Postal ‘‘209. Chief Innovation Officer.’’. ‘‘(6) SUSPENSION REVIEW.—

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‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Within a reasonable pe- ‘‘(BB) in which members of the affected same or substantially similar service to the riod of time after the date on which the community may participate by teleconfer- community in which the post office that was Postal Service implements an emergency ence or videoconference; or the subject of the expired lease or rental suspension of a post office, the Postal Serv- ‘‘(II) initiate discontinuance procedures for agreement is located. ice shall review the emergency suspension the post office. ‘‘(D) FAILURE TO RESTORE SERVICE.—If, and determine whether to— ‘‘(iii) 1-YEAR DELAY.—If, as of the date that within 30 days after the expiration of a lease ‘‘(i) reopen the post office; or is 1 year after the date on which an emer- or rental agreement for a post office, the ‘‘(ii) continue the emergency suspension. gency suspension of a post office was imple- Postal Service is unable to restore service at ‘‘(B) REOPENING.— mented, service to the affected community the same location or at another location in ‘‘(i) NOTIFICATION.—If the Postal Service has not been restored and the Postal Service the affected community, the Postal Service makes a determination under subparagraph has not initiated discontinuance procedures shall publish notice of intent to restore the (A) to reopen a post office, the Postal Serv- for the post office, the Postal Service— same or substantially similar service to the ‘‘(I) shall publish notice of the continued ice shall provide notice to the persons de- affected community— suspension, including— scribed in paragraph (3) of the date by which ‘‘(i) within a reasonable period of time; and ‘‘(aa) a reason for the delay; and the Postal Service expects to reopen the post ‘‘(ii) in any event, not later than 180 days ‘‘(bb) an anticipated date of restoration of office. after the date on which the lease or rental such service; agreement expired. ‘‘(ii) DELAY.—If the Postal Service does not ‘‘(II) shall host— reopen a post office by the date specified ‘‘(E) DELAY IN RESTORATION OF SERVICE.—If ‘‘(aa) not later than 30 days after pub- the Postal Service publishes notice of intent under clause (i), not later than the next busi- lishing the notice under subclause (I), a sec- ness day after that date, the Postal Service to restore the same or substantially similar ond question-and-answer forum described in service to an affected community under sub- shall provide notice of the delay to the per- clause (ii)(I)(bb); and paragraph (D) and such service to the af- sons described in paragraph (3), including a ‘‘(bb) additional question-and-answer fora fected community is not restored within 180 new date by which the Postal Service ex- described in clause (ii)(I)(bb) every subse- days of the date on which the lease or rental pects to reopen the post office, if such a date quent 180 days until— agreement for the post office expired, the is known. ‘‘(AA) such service is restored; or Postal Service shall— ‘‘(iii) SUBSEQUENT DELAYS.—If the Postal ‘‘(BB) the Postal Service initiates dis- ‘‘(i) publish notice of the delay, including— Service does not reopen a post office by a continuance procedures for the post office; ‘‘(I) a reason for the delay; and new date specified under clause (ii), the and ‘‘(II) an anticipated date of restoration of Postal Service shall provide to the persons ‘‘(III) if services similar to those that have such service; and described in paragraph (3) notice, and a new not been restored are not located within a ‘‘(ii) within a reasonable period of time date in the same manner as under clause (ii) reasonable distance of the post office, not after publishing the notice under clause (i), of this subparagraph, and shall continue to later than 60 days after the date that is 1 host a question-and-answer forum— do so at regular intervals until the Postal year after the date on which the emergency ‘‘(I) that members of the community may Service reopens the post office or initiates suspension was implemented, shall develop attend, at a location accessible to the af- discontinuance procedures for the post of- and publish a plan to provide essential serv- fected community; or ices, including alternate retail and post of- fice. ‘‘(II) in which members of the affected fice box services, on a temporary basis at a ‘‘(C) CONTINUED SUSPENSION.— community may participate by teleconfer- location within a reasonable distance of the ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—If the Postal Service ence or videoconference. suspended post office. makes a determination under subparagraph ‘‘(F) FURTHER DELAYS IN RESTORATION OF ‘‘(7) RESTORATION OF SERVICE.—Upon the (A) to continue the emergency suspension of SERVICE.—Upon the expiration of each 30-day restoration of service under paragraph (6)(C), a post office, the Postal Service— period after the date on which the Postal the Postal Service shall immediately no- ‘‘(I) not later than 30 days after making Service publishes notice of a delay under tify— the determination, shall— subparagraph (E)(i), if the same or substan- ‘‘(aa) provide alternate services that are ‘‘(A) the affected community; and ‘‘(B) the Headquarters Review Coordinator. tially similar service to the affected commu- the same or substantially similar to the nity has not been restored, the Postal Serv- ‘‘(8) LEASE OR RENTAL AGREEMENT EXPIRA- services provided at the suspended post of- ice shall publish an updated notice of the TION.— fice on a temporary basis at a location with- delay that includes the anticipated date of ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.— in a reasonable distance of the suspended restoration of such service. ‘‘(i) PROHIBITION ON EMERGENCY SUSPEN- post office, which may be at the nearest ‘‘(G) 1-YEAR DELAY.—If the same or sub- postal facility; and SIONS.—The Postal Service may not imple- ment an emergency suspension of a post of- stantially similar service to the affected ‘‘(bb)(AA) initiate discontinuance proce- fice based on the expiration of the lease or community is not restored within 1 year of dures for the post office; rental agreement for the post office. the date on which the lease or rental agree- ‘‘(BB) publish a plan to restore service to ‘‘(ii) ALTERNATIVE PROCESS.—The Postal ment for the post office expired, the Postal the affected community within a reasonable Service shall establish an alternative process Service— period of time; or for the suspension of postal services to a ‘‘(i) shall host— ‘‘(CC) provide notice to the persons de- community based on the expiration of a ‘‘(I) a second question-and-answer forum scribed in paragraph (3) of the date on which lease or rental agreement for a post office in described in subparagraph (E)(ii); and the Postal Service expects to publish a plan accordance with subparagraphs (B) through ‘‘(II) additional question-and-answer fora to restore the same or substantially similar (G) of this paragraph. described in subparagraph (E)(ii) in the af- service to the affected community within a ‘‘(B) FAILURE TO REACH AGREEMENT.—If, as fected community as determined necessary reasonable period of time; and of 30 days before the expiration of a lease or by the Postal Service until— ‘‘(II) if the Postal Service elects to provide rental agreement for a post office, the Postal ‘‘(aa) such service is restored; or notice under subclause (I)(bb)(CC), shall, not Service does not expect to reach an agree- ‘‘(bb) the Postal Service initiates dis- later than 90 days after the date of the ini- ment with the lessor to extend the lease or continuance procedures for the post office; tial determination to implement the emer- rental agreement or to sell the property to and gency suspension, publish the plan described the Postal Service, the Postal Service shall— ‘‘(ii) if no alternate services are located in that subclause. ‘‘(i) notify the affected community of a within a reasonable distance of the post of- ‘‘(ii) DELAY IN RESTORATION OF SERVICE.—If possible disruption in service due to the pos- fice, not later than 60 days after the date the Postal Service publishes a plan to re- sible expiration of the lease or rental agree- that is 1 year after the date on which the store service to an affected community ment; and lease or rental agreement for the post office under subclause (I)(bb)(BB) or (II) of clause ‘‘(ii) include in the notification under expired, shall develop and publish a plan to (i) and such service to the affected commu- clause (i)— provide essential services, including alter- nity is not restored within 180 days of the ‘‘(I) the expiration date of the lease or nate retail and post office box services, on a date on which the emergency suspension was rental agreement; temporary basis at a location within a rea- implemented, the Postal Service shall— ‘‘(II) alternate services available if the sonable distance of the post office.’’. ‘‘(I)(aa) publish notice of the continued lease or rental agreement expires,; (b) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made suspension, including— ‘‘(III) the nearest post offices and hours of by subsection (a) shall apply to any emer- ‘‘(AA) a reason for the delay; and service; and gency suspension of a post office that is im- ‘‘(BB) an anticipated date of restoration of ‘‘(IV) the name, telephone number, and plemented on or after the date that is 1 year service; and email address of an individual to contact for after the date of enactment of this Act. ‘‘(bb) not later than 30 days after pub- more information. SEC. 954. MAILING ADDRESS REQUIREMENTS. lishing the notice under item (aa), host a ‘‘(C) RESTORATION OF SERVICE.—Not later (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter VI of chapter question-and-answer forum— than 5 days after the date on which a lease 36 of title 39, United States Code, is amended ‘‘(AA) that members of the community or rental agreement for a post office expires, by adding at the end the following: may attend, at a location accessible to the the Postal Service shall make best efforts to ‘‘§ 3687. Mailing address requirements affected community; or commence actions required to restore the ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5295 ‘‘(1) the term ‘municipality’ means a city, ‘‘(B) a contracting officer shall maintain subsection (a) to determine whether the de- town, borough, county, parish, district, asso- an awareness of, and engagement in, the ac- scription includes proprietary data (includ- ciation, or other public entity established tivities being performed on postal contracts ing any reference or citation to the propri- by, or pursuant to, applicable State law; and of which that officer has cognizance, not- etary data) or security-related information; ‘‘(2) the term ‘State’ means each of the withstanding any delegation of authority and several States, territories, and possessions of that may have been executed. ‘‘(B) remove any proprietary data or secu- the United States, the District of Columbia, ‘‘(b) POSTING OF DELEGATIONS.— rity-related information before making pub- and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The head of each covered licly available a description of the rationale ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENT FOR PHYSICAL AND MAIL- postal entity shall make any delegation of supporting a noncompetitive award. ING ADDRESSES TO CORRESPOND.—The State authority for postal contracts outside the ‘‘(c) WAIVERS.— and municipality used by the Postal Service functional contracting unit readily available ‘‘(1) WAIVER PERMITTED.—If the Postal for the delivery address for purposes of mail and accessible on the website of the covered Service determines that making a non- matter shall correspond with the State and postal entity. competitive purchase request for a postal municipality of the physical address of the ‘‘(2) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This paragraph shall contract of the Postal Service under sub- location for the delivery of such mail mat- apply to any delegation of authority made section (a)(2) publicly available would risk ter.’’. on or after the date that is 30 days after the placing the Postal Service at a competitive (b) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- date of enactment of this chapter. disadvantage relative to a private sector MENT.—The table of sections for chapter 36 of ‘‘§ 703. Posting of noncompetitive purchase competitor, the senior procurement execu- title 39, United States Code, is amended by requests for noncompetitive contracts tive, in consultation with the advocate for inserting after the item relating to section ‘‘(a) POSTING REQUIRED.— competition of the Postal Service, may 3686 the following: ‘‘(1) POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION.—The waive the requirements under subsection (a). ‘‘3687. Mailing address requirements.’’. Postal Regulatory Commission shall make ‘‘(2) FORM AND CONTENT OF WAIVER.— Subtitle C—Postal Contracting Reform the noncompetitive purchase request for any ‘‘(A) FORM.—A waiver under paragraph (1) SEC. 961. CONTRACTING PROVISIONS. noncompetitive award for any contract (in- shall be in the form of a written determina- (a) IN GENERAL.—Part I of title 39, United cluding any agreement or memorandum of tion placed in the file of the contract to States Code, is amended by adding at the end understanding) entered into by the Postal which the noncompetitive purchase request the following: Regulatory Commission for the procurement relates. ‘‘(B) CONTENT.—A waiver under paragraph ‘‘CHAPTER 7—CONTRACTING PROVISIONS of goods and services in an amount of $20,000 or more, including the rationale supporting (1) shall include— ‘‘Sec. ‘‘(i) a description of the risk associated ‘‘701. Definitions. the noncompetitive award, publicly available with making the noncompetitive purchase ‘‘702. Delegation of contracting authority. on the website of the Postal Regulatory ‘‘703. Posting of noncompetitive purchase re- Commission— request publicly available; and quests for noncompetitive con- ‘‘(A) not later than 14 days after the date ‘‘(ii) a statement that redaction of sen- tracts. of the award of the noncompetitive contract; sitive information in the noncompetitive ‘‘704. Review of ethical issues. or purchase request would not be sufficient to ‘‘705. Ethical restrictions on participation in ‘‘(B) not later than 30 days after the date of protect the Postal Service from being placed certain contracting activity. the award of the noncompetitive contract, if at a competitive disadvantage relative to a private sector competitor. ‘‘§ 701. Definitions the basis for the award was a compelling business interest. ‘‘(3) DELEGATION OF WAIVER AUTHORITY.— ‘‘In this chapter— ‘‘(2) POSTAL SERVICE.—The Postal Service The Postal Service may not delegate the au- ‘‘(1) the term ‘contracting officer’ means shall make the noncompetitive purchase re- thority to approve a waiver under paragraph an employee of a covered postal entity who quest for any noncompetitive award of a (1) to any employee having less authority has authority to enter into a postal contract; postal contract in an amount of $250,000 or than the senior procurement executive. ‘‘(2) the term ‘covered postal entity’ more, including the rationale supporting the means— ‘‘§ 704. Review of ethical issues noncompetitive award, publicly available on ‘‘(A) the Postal Service; or the website of the Postal Service— ‘‘If a contracting officer identifies any eth- ‘‘(B) the Postal Regulatory Commission; ‘‘(A) not later than 14 days after the date ical issues relating to a proposed contract ‘‘(3) the term ‘head of a covered postal en- of the award; or and submits those issues and that proposed tity’ means— ‘‘(B) not later than 30 days after the date of contract to the designated ethics official for ‘‘(A) in the case of the Postal Service, the the award, if the basis for the award was a the covered postal entity before the award- Postmaster General; or compelling business interest. ing of that contract, that ethics official ‘‘(B) in the case of the Postal Regulatory ‘‘(3) ADJUSTMENTS TO THE POSTING THRESH- shall— Commission, the Chairman of the Postal OLD.— ‘‘(1) review the proposed contract; and Regulatory Commission; ‘‘(A) REVIEW AND DETERMINATION.—Not ‘‘(2) advise the contracting officer on the ‘‘(4) the term ‘postal contract’ means— later than January 31 of each year, the Post- appropriate resolution of ethical issues. ‘‘(A) in the case of the Postal Service, any al Service and the Postal Regulatory Com- contract (including any agreement or memo- ‘‘§ 705. Ethical restrictions on participation in mission shall— certain contracting activity randum of understanding) entered into by ‘‘(i) review the applicable threshold estab- the Postal Service for the procurement of lished under paragraph (1) or (2); and ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— goods or services; or ‘‘(ii) based on any change in the Consumer ‘‘(1) the term ‘covered employee’ means— ‘‘(B) in the case of the Postal Regulatory Price Index for All Urban Consumers of the ‘‘(A) a contracting officer; or Commission, any contract (including any Department of Labor, determine whether an ‘‘(B) any employee of a covered postal enti- agreement or memorandum of under- adjustment to the threshold shall be made. ty whose decisionmaking affects a postal standing) in an amount exceeding the sim- ‘‘(B) AMOUNT OF ADJUSTMENTS.—An adjust- contract as determined by regulations pre- plified acquisition threshold (as defined in ment under subparagraph (A) shall be made scribed by the head of a covered postal enti- section 134 of title 41) entered into by the in increments of $5,000. If the covered postal ty; Postal Regulatory Commission for the pro- entity determines that a change in the Con- ‘‘(2) the term ‘final conviction’ means a curement of goods or services; and sumer Price Index for a year would require conviction entered by a court, regardless of ‘‘(5) the term ‘senior procurement execu- an adjustment in an amount that is less than whether such conviction was entered on a tive’ means the senior procurement execu- $5,000, the covered postal entity may not verdict or pursuant to a plea (including a tive of a covered postal entity. make an adjustment to the threshold for the plea of nolo contendere), and with regard to ‘‘§ 702. Delegation of contracting authority year. which no further appeal may be taken or is ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.— ‘‘(4) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This subsection pending; and ‘‘(1) POLICY.—Not later than 60 days after shall apply to any noncompetitive contract ‘‘(3) the term ‘covered relationship’ means the date of enactment of this chapter, the awarded on or after the date that is 90 days a covered relationship described in section head of each covered postal entity shall issue after the date of enactment of this chapter. 2635.502(b)(1) of title 5, Code of Federal Regu- a policy on contracting officer delegations of ‘‘(b) PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.— lations, or any successor thereto. authority for postal contracts for the cov- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), ‘‘(b) IN GENERAL.— ered postal entity. the information required to be made publicly ‘‘(1) REGULATIONS.—The head of each cov- ‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—The policy issued under available by a covered postal entity under ered postal entity shall prescribe regulations paragraph (1) shall require that— subsection (a) shall be readily accessible on that— ‘‘(A) notwithstanding any delegation of au- the website of the covered postal entity. ‘‘(A) require a covered employee to include thority with respect to postal contracts, the ‘‘(2) PROTECTION OF PROPRIETARY INFORMA- in the file of any noncompetitive purchase ultimate responsibility and accountability TION.—A covered postal entity shall— request for a noncompetitive postal contract for the award and administration of postal ‘‘(A) carefully screen any description of the a written certification that— contracts resides with the senior procure- rationale supporting a noncompetitive award ‘‘(i) discloses any covered relationship of ment executive; and required to be made publicly available under the covered employee; and

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‘‘(ii) states that the covered employee will ‘‘(B) CONVICTION OR ADMINISTRATIVE DETER- sent of the Senate, without regard to polit- not take any action with respect to the non- MINATION.—A case described under subpara- ical affiliation and solely on the basis of in- competitive purchase request that affects graph (A) is any case in which— tegrity and demonstrated ability in account- the financial interests of any person with ‘‘(i) there is a final conviction for an of- ing, auditing, financial analysis, law, man- which the covered employee has a covered fense punishable under section 2105 of title agement analysis, public administration, or relationship, or otherwise gives rise to an ap- 41; or investigations. pearance of the use of public office for pri- ‘‘(ii) the head of a covered postal entity de- ‘‘(C) The Inspector General may be re- vate gain, as described in section 2635.702 of termines, based upon a preponderance of the moved from office by the President. If the In- title 5, Code of Federal Regulations, or any evidence, that the contractor or someone spector General is removed from office or is successor thereto; acting for the contractor has engaged in con- transferred to another position or location ‘‘(B) require a contracting officer to con- duct constituting an offense punishable within the United States Postal Service, the sult with the ethics counsel for the covered under section 2105 of such title.’’. President shall communicate in writing the postal entity regarding any disclosure made (b) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- reasons for any such removal or transfer to by a covered employee under subparagraph MENT.—The table of chapters at the begin- both Houses of Congress, not later than 30 (A)(i), to determine whether participation by ning of part I is amended by adding at the days before the removal or transfer. Nothing in this subparagraph shall prohibit a per- the covered employee in the noncompetitive end the following: sonnel action otherwise authorized by law, purchase request would give rise to a viola- ‘‘7. Contracting Provisions ...... 701’’. other than transfer or removal. tion of part 2635 of title 5, Code of Federal SEC. 962. TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO DEFINI- ‘‘(D) For the purposes of section 7324 of Regulations (commonly referred to as the TION. title 5, United States Code, the Inspector Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees Section 7101(8) of title 41, United States General shall not be considered to be an em- of the Executive Branch), or any successor Code, is amended— ployee who determines policies to be pursued thereto; (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- by the United States in the nationwide ad- ‘‘(C) require the ethics counsel for a cov- graph (C); ministration of Federal laws. ered postal entity to review any disclosure (2) by striking the period at the end of sub- ‘‘(E) The Inspector General shall have all made by a contracting officer under subpara- paragraph (D) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and of the authorities and responsibilities pro- graph (A)(i) to determine whether participa- (3) by adding at the end the following: vided by this Act with respect to the Postal tion by the contracting officer in the non- ‘‘(E) the United States Postal Service and Regulatory Commission, as if the Postal competitive purchase request would give rise the Postal Regulatory Commission.’’. Regulatory Commission were part of the to a violation of part 2635 of title 5, Code of Subtitle D—Postal Regulatory Commission, United States Postal Service.’’; Federal Regulations (commonly referred to Inspector General, Related Provisions, and (B) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘of the as the Standards of Ethical Conduct for Em- Miscellaneous United States Postal Service (hereinafter in ployees of the Executive Branch), or any suc- this subsection referred to as the ‘Inspector cessor thereto; SEC. 981. POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION. General’)’’; Section 502 of title 39, United States Code, ‘‘(D) under subsections (d) and (e) of sec- (C) in paragraph (3)— is amended— tion 2635.502 of title 5, Code of Federal Regu- (i) in subparagraph (A)— (1) in subsection (c), by striking ‘‘sub- lations, or any successor thereto, require the (I) in clause (i), in the matter preceding section (f)’’ and inserting ‘‘subsections (f) ethics counsel for a covered postal entity subclause (I), by inserting ‘‘relating to the and (g)’’; and to— United States Postal Service’’ before ‘‘which (2) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(i) authorize a covered employee that require access to sensitive information’’; and ‘‘(g) A Commissioner may serve for not makes a disclosure under subparagraph (A)(i) (II) in clause (iii), by striking ‘‘Committee more than 2 full terms as a Commissioner.’’. to participate in the noncompetitive postal on Governmental Affairs of the Senate’’ and contract; or SEC. 982. INSPECTOR GENERAL OF THE UNITED inserting ‘‘Committee on Homeland Security STATES POSTAL SERVICE AND THE and Governmental Affairs of the Senate’’; ‘‘(ii) disqualify a covered employee that POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION. makes a disclosure under subparagraph (A)(i) (ii) in subparagraph (B)(i), by inserting (a) APPOINTMENT OF INSPECTOR GENERAL OF from participating in the noncompetitive ‘‘and the Postal Regulatory Commission’’ THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE AND THE postal contract; after ‘‘United States Postal Service’’; and POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION BY PRESI- ‘‘(E) require a contractor to timely dis- (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘Com- DENT.—Section 8G of the Inspector General mittee on Governmental Affairs of the Sen- close to the contracting officer in a bid, so- Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is amended— ate’’ and inserting ‘‘Committee on Homeland licitation, award, or performance of a postal (1) in subsection (a)— Security and Governmental Affairs of the contract any conflict of interest with a cov- (A) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘the Senate’’; ered employee; and United States International Trade Commis- (D) in paragraph (4), by adding at the end ‘‘(F) include authority for the head of the sion, the Postal Regulatory Commission, and the following: ‘‘Nothing in this paragraph covered postal entity to grant a waiver or the United States Postal Service’’ and in- may be invoked by the United States Postal otherwise mitigate any organizational or serting ‘‘the United States International Service to restrict or limit any audit or in- personal conflict of interest, if the head of Trade Commission, and the United States vestigation that the Inspector General con- the covered postal entity determines that Postal Service and the Postal Regulatory siders appropriate.’’; and the waiver or mitigation is in the best inter- Commission’’; and (E) in paragraph (6), by inserting ‘‘and the ests of the covered postal entity. (B) in paragraph (4), by striking subpara- Postal Regulatory Commission’’ after ‘‘(2) POSTING OF WAIVERS.—Not later than graph (B) and inserting the following: ‘‘United States Postal Service’’. 30 days after the head of a covered postal en- ‘‘(B) with respect to the United States (b) INTERIM POWER OF INSPECTOR GENERAL tity grants a waiver described in paragraph Postal Service and the Postal Regulatory (1)(F), the head of the covered postal entity OF THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE.— Commission, such term, for purposes of over- During the period beginning on the date of shall make the waiver publicly available on sight of— the website of the covered postal entity. enactment of this Act and ending on the date ‘‘(i) the United States Postal Service, on which the first individual is appointed as ‘‘(c) CONTRACT VOIDANCE AND RECOVERY.— means the Governors (as defined in section Inspector General of the United States Post- ‘‘(1) UNLAWFUL CONDUCT.—In any case in 102(3) of title 39, United States Code); and al Service and the Postal Regulatory Com- which there is a final conviction for a viola- ‘‘(ii) the Postal Regulatory Commission, mission after the date of enactment of this tion of any provision of chapter 11 of title 18 means the Chairman of the Postal Regu- Act, the Inspector General of the United relating to a postal contract, the head of a latory Commission;’’; States Postal Service shall have all of the covered postal entity may— (2) in subsection (d)(1), by inserting ‘‘or authorities and responsibilities provided by ‘‘(A) void that contract; and subsection (f)(3)’’ after ‘‘Except as provided the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. ‘‘(B) recover the amounts expended and in paragraph (2)’’; and App.) with respect to the Postal Regulatory property transferred by the covered postal (3) in subsection (f)— Commission on the day before the date of en- entity under that contract. (A) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting actment of this Act, as if the Postal Regu- ‘‘(2) OBTAINING OR DISCLOSING PROCUREMENT the following: latory Commission were part of the United INFORMATION.— ‘‘(1)(A) There is established in the United States Postal Service. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In any case in which a States Postal Service the Office of the In- (c) TRANSFER OF PERSONNEL.— contractor under a postal contract fails to spector General of the United States Postal (1) OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF timely disclose a conflict of interest to the Service and the Postal Regulatory Commis- THE UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE.—The appropriate contracting officer as required sion. personnel employed in the Office of the In- under the regulations promulgated under ‘‘(B) There shall be at the head of the Of- spector General of the United States Postal subsection (b)(1)(E), the head of a covered fice of the Inspector General of the United Service are transferred to the Office of the postal entity may— States Postal Service and the Postal Regu- Inspector General of the United States Post- ‘‘(i) void that contract; and latory Commission an Inspector General (re- al Service and the Postal Regulatory Com- ‘‘(ii) recover the amounts expended and ferred to in this subsection as the ‘Inspector mission. property transferred by the covered postal General’) who shall be appointed by the (2) OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF entity under that contract. President, by and with the advice and con- THE POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION.—The

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5297 personnel employed in the Office of the In- latory Commission shall abate by reason of SA 3464. Mr. LEAHY (for himself, Ms. spector General of the Postal Regulatory the enactment of this title. KLOBUCHAR, Mr. COONS, Ms. HIRONO, Commission may be transferred to the other (3) CONTINUANCE OF SUITS.—If, before the Mr. WARNER, Mr. REED) submitted an offices of the Postal Regulatory Commission. effective date of this title, the Office of the amendment intended to be proposed by (3) MODERN SERVICE AND PERFORMANCE Inspector General of the United States Post- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- STANDARDS.—Any unobligated amounts made al Service or the Office of the Inspector Gen- available to carry out the functions of the eral of the Postal Regulatory Commission or propriations for the Department of the Office of the Inspector General of the Postal officer thereof in the official capacity of Interior, environment, and related Regulatory Commission before the date of such officer, is party to a suit, and under this agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- enactment of this Act shall be used to estab- title any function of the Office of the Inspec- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; lish and revise modern service standards and tor General of the United States Postal Serv- which was ordered to lie on the table; measure performance under section 3691 of ice or the Office of the Inspector General of as follows: title 39, United States Code, as amended by the Postal Regulatory Commission or officer At the appropriate place in division B, in- section 950(a) of this title. is transferred to the Inspector General of the sert the following: (4) EFFECT.—During the 1-year period be- United States Postal Service and the Postal SEC. ll. In addition to amounts made ginning on the date of enactment of this Act, Regulatory Commission or any other official available for the Election Assistance Com- any full-time or part-time employee who, on of the Office of the Inspector General of the mission, $250,000,000 shall be made available the day before such date of enactment, was United States Postal Service and the Postal for election security grants: Provided, That, employed in a permanent position in the Of- Regulatory Commission, then such suit shall of the unobligated balances available under fice of the Inspector General of the Postal be continued with the Inspector General of the heading ‘‘Treasury Forfeiture Fund’’, Regulatory Commission, shall not be sepa- the United States Postal Service and the $380,000,000 are hereby permanently rescinded rated or reduced in grade or compensation Postal Regulatory Commission or other ap- not later than September 30, 2019. because of the transfer under an amendment propriate official of the Office of the Inspec- made by this section. tor General of the United States Postal Serv- SA 3465. Ms. HEITKAMP submitted (d) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- ice and the Postal Regulatory Commission an amendment intended to be proposed MENTS.— substituted or added as a party. to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (f) APPLICABILITY.— (1) TITLE 39, UNITED STATES CODE.—Title 39, HELBY (1) IN GENERAL.—Except with respect to the S to the bill H.R. 6147, making United States Code, is amended— appropriations for the Department of (A) in section 102(4), by striking ‘‘section amendment made by subsection (a)(1)(A) re- 202(e) of this title’’ and inserting ‘‘section lating to the Postal Regulatory Commission the Interior, environment, and related 8G(f)(1)(B) of the Inspector General Act of and the amendment made by subsection agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.)’’; (d)(1)(C), the amendments made by this sec- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; (B) in section 202, by striking subsection tion shall apply with respect to the first in- which was ordered to lie on the table; (e); dividual appointed as Inspector General of as follows: the United States Postal Service and the (C) in section 504, by striking subsection At the appropriate place in title VII of di- Postal Regulatory Commission after the (h); vision C, insert the following: date of enactment of this Act. (D) in section 1001(b), in the first sentence, SEC. ll. (a) The Secretary of Agriculture by inserting ‘‘, and section 8G(f)(1)(B) of the (2) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this may provide debt forgiveness to an Indian Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.)’’ title may be construed to alter the authority tribe (as defined in section 4 of the Indian after ‘‘1001(c) of this title’’; or the length of the term of the individual Self-Determination and Education Assist- (E) in section 1003(b), by striking ‘‘11(2)’’ serving as Inspector General of the United ance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304)) for a direct loan and inserting ‘‘12(2)’’; States Postal Service on the date of enact- provided under the Community Facilities Di- (F) in section 1005(a)(3), by inserting ‘‘, and ment of this Act. rect Loan and Grant program under subpart (g) REFERENCES IN THIS TITLE TO THE IN- section 8G(f)(1)(B) of the Inspector General A of part 1942 of title 7, Code of Federal Reg- SPECTOR GENERAL OF THE UNITED STATES Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.)’’ after ‘‘1001(c) of ulations (or successor regulations), if— this title’’; POSTAL SERVICE.—On and after the date on which the first individual is appointed as In- (1) the Indian tribe is designated as a (G) in section 2009, by inserting ‘‘and the Promise Zone under the Promise Zones Ini- Postal Regulatory Commission’’ after spector General of the United States Postal Service and the Postal Regulatory Commis- tiative; and ‘‘United States Postal Service’’; and sion after the date of enactment of this Act, (2) the land of the Indian tribe is partly or (H) in section 2011(h)(2)(D), by inserting each reference in this title to the Inspector wholly located in an area designated as a ‘‘and the Postal Regulatory Commission’’ General of the Postal Service shall be qualified opportunity zone under subchapter after ‘‘United States Postal Service’’. deemed to be a reference to the Inspector Z of chapter 1 of subtitle A of the Internal (2) OMNIBUS CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS General of the United States Postal Service Revenue Code of 1986. ACT, 1997.—Section 662(d) of the Omnibus Con- and the Postal Regulatory Commission. (b) Nothing in this section adversely af- solidated Appropriations Act, 1997 (39 U.S.C. (h) RESOURCES FOR WASTE, FRAUD, AND fects the ability of an Indian tribe that re- 2802 note) is amended— ABUSE INVESTIGATIONS.— ceives debt forgiveness under subsection (a) (A) in paragraph (1)— (1) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 4 of title 39, to apply for or receive any other Federal (i) in the paragraph heading, by inserting United States Code, is amended by adding at loan. ‘‘AND THE POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION’’ the end the following: after ‘‘POSTAL SERVICE’’; SA 3466. Mr. MURPHY (for himself ‘‘§ 417. Waste, fraud, and abuse investigations (ii) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘and and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) submitted an the Postal Regulatory Commission’’ after ‘‘The Postal Service may transfer such re- sources to the Inspector General for waste, amendment intended to be proposed by ‘‘Postal Service’’; and fraud, and abuse investigations as the Postal him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- (iii) in subparagraph (B)(i), by inserting Service determines necessary.’’. propriations for the Department of the ‘‘and the Postal Regulatory Commission’’ (2) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- after ‘‘Postal Service’’; and Interior, environment, and related MENT.—The table of sections for chapter 4 of (B) in the first sentence of paragraph (2), agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- title 39, United States Code, is amended by by inserting ‘‘and the Postal Regulatory tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; adding at the end the following: Commission’’ after ‘‘Postal Service’’. which was ordered to lie on the table; ‘‘417. Waste, fraud, and abuse investiga- (e) SAVINGS PROVISIONS.— as follows: tions.’’. (1) SUITS.—The provisions of this title shall At the appropriate place in division D, in- not affect suits commenced before the effec- SEC. 983. GAO REPORT ON FRAGMENTATION, OVERLAP, AND DUPLICATION IN sert the following: tive date of this title, and in all such suits, FEDERAL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVI- SEC. ll. (a) In this section— proceeding shall be had, appeals taken, and TIES. (1) the term ‘‘covered State’’ means a judgments rendered in the same manner and The Comptroller General of the United State that administers a crumbling founda- with the same effect as if this title had not States shall include in the annual report to tions assistance fund; been enacted. Congress required under section 21 of the (2) the term ‘‘crumbling foundations assist- (2) NONABATEMENT OF ACTIONS.—No suit, Joint Resolution entitled ‘‘Joint Resolution ance fund’’ means a fund established by a action, or other proceeding commenced by or increasing the statutory limit on the public State the purpose of which is to receive pub- against the Inspector General of the United debt’’, approved February 12, 2010 (31 U.S.C. lic or private contributions to provide finan- States Postal Service or the Inspector Gen- 712 note), that is applicable to the first year cial assistance to owners of residential build- eral of the Postal Regulatory Commission, beginning after the date of enactment of this ings in the State to repair or replace the or by or against any individual in the official Act a review of the duplication of services concrete foundations of those residential capacity of such individual as an officer of and functions between the Office of the In- buildings that have deteriorated due to the the Office of the Inspector General of the spector General of the Postal Service, the presence of pyrrhotite; United States Postal Service or the Office of Postal Inspection Service, and any other (3) the term ‘‘residential building’’ means a the Inspector General of the Postal Regu- Federal agency. 1-family, 2-family, 3-family or 4-family

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.037 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5298 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 dwelling, including a condominium unit or PARTMENT OF THE TREASURY’’ in title I WHITEHOUSE, Mr. WYDEN, Ms. HASSAN, dwelling in a planned unit development; and of division B, strike paragraphs (2) and (3) Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, and (4) the term ‘‘Secretary’’ means the Sec- and insert the following: Mr. NELSON) submitted an amendment retary of Housing and Urban Development. (2) not to exceed $258,000 is for unforeseen intended to be proposed by him to the (b) Not later than 90 days after the date of emergencies of a confidential nature to be enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall allocated and expended under the direction bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations establish and implement a program to make of the Secretary of the Treasury and to be for the Department of the Interior, en- grants to covered States to assist owners of accounted for solely on the Secretary’s cer- vironment, and related agencies for the residential buildings with concrete founda- tificate; fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, tions that have deteriorated due to the pres- (3) not to exceed $24,000,000 shall remain and for other purposes; which was or- ence of pyrrhotite. available until September 30, 2020, for— dered to lie on the table; as follows: (c) A covered State desiring a grant under (A) the Treasury-wide Financial Statement At the end of title I, add the following: this section shall submit an application to Audit and Internal Control Program; the Secretary at such time, in such manner, (B) information technology modernization PROPOSED OIL AND GAS LEASING PROGRAMS and accompanied by such information as the requirements; SEC. 117. None of the funds made available Secretary may require. (C) the audit, oversight, and administra- by this or any other Act may be used by the (d) A covered State receiving a grant under tion of the Gulf Coast Restoration Trust Secretary of the Interior— this section shall deposit any grant amounts Fund; (1) to approve or carry out the 2019–2024 Na- into the crumbling foundations assistance (D) the development and implementation tional Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas fund of the State for the purpose of carrying of programs within the Office of Critical In- Leasing Draft Proposed Program issued by out the activities described in subsection (e). frastructure Protection and Compliance Pol- the Secretary of the Interior in January 2018 (e) A covered State receiving a grant under icy, including entering into cooperative under section 18 of the Outer Continental this section shall— agreements; Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1344); or (1) develop a single, unified application for (E) operations and maintenance of facili- (2) to prepare, approve, or carry out any owners of residential buildings to apply for ties; and other proposed oil and gas leasing program all financial assistance from the crumbling (F) international operations; and under that section that would open up new foundations assistance fund of the covered (4) not to exceed $100,000 is for a study, led areas of the outer Continental Shelf to oil State; by the Secretary of the Treasury, in con- and gas exploration, development, produc- (2) provide financial assistance to approved sultation with relevant regulators, that— tion, or leasing. owners of residential buildings for the repair (A) examines the financial impact of the or replacement of concrete foundations that mineral pyrrhotite in concrete home founda- SA 3471. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, have deteriorated due to the presence of tions; and Mr. RISCH, Mr. CRAPO, and Mr. pyrrhotite, including financial reimburse- (B) provides recommendations on regu- MERKLEY) submitted an amendment in- ment to owners who have had such repair or latory and legislative actions needed to help tended to be proposed to amendment replacement performed before the date of en- mitigate the financial impact described in SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the actment of this Act; subparagraph (A) on banks, mortgage lend- (3) assist approved owners of residential ers, tax revenues, and homeowners. bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations buildings to obtain additional financing nec- for the Department of the Interior, en- essary to fully fund the repair or replace- SA 3468. Mr. MURPHY (for himself vironment, and related agencies for the ment of concrete foundations that have dete- and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) submitted an fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, riorated due to the presence of pyrrhotite; amendment intended to be proposed to and for other purposes; which was or- (4) approve contractors or other vendors amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. dered to lie on the table; as follows: for eligibility to perform foundation repairs At the appropriate place in title I of divi- or replacements on behalf of approved own- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations for the Department of sion D, insert the following: ers; SEC. 1ll. Section 31112(c) of title 49, (5) ensure that the financial assistance is the Interior, environment, and related United States Code, is amended— used solely for costs of repairing and replac- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (1) in the subsection heading, by striking ing concrete foundations that have deterio- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘‘AND KANSAS’’ and inserting ‘‘KANSAS, AND rated due to the presence of pyrrhotite; and which was ordered to lie on the table; OREGON’’; (6) require the disclosure of the amount of as follows: (2) in paragraph (4), by striking ‘‘and’’ at all financial compensation received by an the end; owner of the residential building, if any, On page 21, line 23, insert after ‘‘2020;’’ the following: ‘‘of which $100,000 shall be made (3) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘state.’’ arising out of a claim for coverage under the and inserting ‘‘State; and’’; and property coverage provisions of the home- available to the United States Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program for the (4) by adding at the end the following: owners policy for foundation deterioration ‘‘(6) Oregon may allow the operation of a due to the presence of pyrrhotite and ensure development of a map depicting pyrrhotite occurrences throughout the United States;’’. truck tractor and 2 property-carrying units that the amount is considered when deter- not in actual lawful operation on a regular mining the amount of financial assistance SA 3469. Mr. MARKEY (for himself, or periodic basis on June 1, 1991, if— offered to the owner. ‘‘(A) the length of the property-carrying (f)(1) Each grant awarded to a covered Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. CARPER, Mr. BOOK- units does not exceed 82 feet 8 inches; State under this section in a fiscal year shall ER, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. REED, Mr. ‘‘(B) the combination is used only to trans- be in an amount of not more than $20,000,000. WHITEHOUSE, Mr. WYDEN, Ms. HASSAN, port sugar beets; and (2) A grant awarded under this section Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. ‘‘(C) the operation occurs on United States shall be for a period of 5 years. NELSON, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) sub- Route 20, United States Route 26, United (g) The Secretary shall submit to the Com- mitted an amendment intended to be States Route 30, or Oregon Route 201 in the mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- vicinity, or between any, of— fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Fi- proposed by him to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations for the Depart- ‘‘(i) Vale, Oregon; nancial Services of the House of Representa- ‘‘(ii) Ontario, Oregon; or tives an annual report on the grant program ment of the Interior, environment, and ‘‘(iii) Nyssa, Oregon.’’. established under this section, including a related agencies for the fiscal year end- summary of the use of funds by covered ing September 30, 2019, and for other SA 3472. Mr. DAINES submitted an States receiving a grant under this section. purposes; which was ordered to lie on amendment intended to be proposed to the table; as follows: amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SA 3467. Mr. MURPHY (for himself At the end of title I, add the following: SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by SAFETY IN OFFSHORE DRILLING ACTIVITIES appropriations for the Department of him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- SEC. 117. None of the funds made available the Interior, environment, and related propriations for the Department of the by this or any other Act may be used to agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- carry out a termination or diminishment of Interior, environment, and related tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; effectiveness of any rule or rulemaking, if which was ordered to lie on the table; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the termination or diminishment of effec- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; as follows: tiveness would reduce safety in offshore At the appropriate place in title I of divi- which was ordered to lie on the table; drilling activities. sion A, insert the following: as follows: SEC. 1ll. Section 6(d)(2)(A) of the Forest In the matter under the heading ‘‘SALARIES SA 3470. Mr. MARKEY (for himself, and Rangeland Renewable Resources Plan- AND EXPENSES’’ under the heading ‘‘DEPART- Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. CARPER, Mr. BOOK- ning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1604(d)(2)(A)) is MENTAL OFFICES’’ under the heading ‘‘DE- ER, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. REED, Mr. amended—

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(1) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the (B) in subsection (n)— (2) ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.—Section end; (i) in the subsection heading, by striking 32 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 657) is (2) in clause (ii), by striking the period at ‘‘ACTIVE DUTY’’ and inserting ‘‘ACTIVE SERV- amended by adding at the end the following: the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and ICE’’; ‘‘(g) NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE DE- (3) by adding at the end the following: (ii) in paragraph (1)— PLOYMENT SUPPORT AND BUSINESS TRAIN- ‘‘(iii) any new information (within the (I) by striking subparagraph (C); ING.— meaning of subsection (b) of section 402.16 of (II) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In making grants carried title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (or a (B) as subparagraphs (B) and (C), respec- out under section 8(b)(17), the Associate Ad- successor regulation)).’’. tively; ministrator shall establish a program, to be (III) by inserting before subparagraph (B), known as the ‘National Guard and Reserve SA 3473. Mr. SCHATZ submitted an as so redesignated, the following: Deployment Support and Business Training amendment intended to be proposed by ‘‘(A) ACTIVE SERVICE.—The term ‘active Program’, to provide training, counseling him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- service’ has the meaning given that term in and other assistance to support members of propriations for the Department of the section 101(d)(3) of title 10, United States a reserve component of the Armed Forces Interior, environment, and related Code.’’; and their spouses. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (IV) in subparagraph (B), as so redesig- ‘‘(2) AUTHORITIES.—In carrying out this nated, by striking ‘‘ordered to active duty subsection, the Associate Administrator tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; during a period of military conflict’’ and in- which was ordered to lie on the table; may— serting ‘‘ordered to perform active service ‘‘(A) modify programs and resources made as follows: for a period of more than 30 consecutive available through section 8(b)(17) to provide At the appropriate place in division B, in- days’’; and pre-deployment and other information spe- sert the following: (V) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘ac- cific to members of a reserve component of SEC. ll. For businesses and residents im- tive duty’’ each place it appears and insert- pacted by a major disaster declared by the the Armed Forces and their spouses; ing ‘‘active service’’; and ‘‘(B) collaborate with the Chief of the Na- President under section 401 of Robert T. (iii) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ‘‘ac- Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- tional Guard Bureau or the Chief’s designee, tive duty’’ each place it appears and insert- sistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170) in 2018 with re- State Adjunct Generals or their designees, ing ‘‘active service’’. spect to a volcano eruption or related earth- and other public and private partners; and (2) APPLICABILITY.—The amendments made quakes, the Administrator of the Small Busi- ‘‘(C) provide training, information and by paragraph (1)(A) shall apply to an eco- ness Administration shall extend the appli- other resources to the Chief of the National nomic injury suffered or likely to be suffered cation deadline— Guard Bureau or the Chief’s designee and as the result of an essential employee being (1) for physical damage disaster loans State Adjunct Generals or their designees for ordered to perform active service (as defined under section 7(b)(1)(A) of the Small Busi- the purpose of supporting members of a re- in section 101(d)(3) of title 10, United States ness Act (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(1)(A)) to 60 days fol- serve component of the Armed Forces and Code) for a period of more than 30 consecu- lowing the date on which the property dam- the spouses of veterans and members of a re- tive days who is discharged or released from age occurred; and serve component of the Armed Forces.’’. such active service on or after the date of en- (2) for economic injury disaster loans actment of this Act. under section 7(b)(2) of the Small Business SA 3475. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted (3) SEMIANNUAL REPORT.—Not later than Act (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(2)) on a case-by-case an amendment intended to be proposed 180 days after the date of enactment of this basis, taking into account the ongoing na- Act, and semiannually thereafter, the Presi- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ture of the major disaster. dent shall submit to the Committee on SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SA 3474. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted Small Business and Entrepreneurship and appropriations for the Department of an amendment intended to be proposed the Committee on Appropriations of the Sen- the Interior, environment, and related ate and the Committee on Small Business agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. and the Committee on Appropriations of the SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; House of Representatives a report on the which was ordered to lie on the table; appropriations for the Department of number of loans made under the Military Re- the Interior, environment, and related servist Economic Injury Disaster Loan pro- as follows: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- gram and the dollar volume of those loans. On page 223, between lines 2 and 3, insert tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; The report shall contain the subsidy rate of the following SEC. 527. Not later than 90 days after the which was ordered to lie on the table; the disaster loan program as authorized under section 7(b) of the Small Business Act date of enactment of this Act, the Adminis- as follows: trator of General Services shall submit to At the appropriate place in division B, in- (15 U.S.C. 636(b)) with the loans made under the Military Reservist Economic Injury Dis- Congress a report that describes the ways in sert the following: which the General Services Administration SEC. ll. NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE EN- aster Loan program and without those loans included. ensures equal public access to Federal build- TREPRENEURSHIP SUPPORTS. ings in the New England region, including— (a) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be (4) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- (1) an analysis of each occasion during the cited as the ‘‘National Guard and Reserve MENT.—Section 8(l) of the Small Business 18-month period ending on the date of enact- Entrepreneurship Support Act’’. Act (15 U.S.C. 637(l)) is amended— ment of this Act in which a Federal agency (b) EXTENSION OF LOAN ASSISTANCE AND DE- (A) by striking ‘‘The Administration’’ and has limited, prevented, or permanently de- FERRAL ELIGIBILITY TO RESERVISTS BEYOND inserting the following: nied access to a Federal building in the re- PERIODS OF MILITARY CONFLICT.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administration’’; gion to any individual or group; (1) SMALL BUSINESS ACT AMENDMENTS.—Sec- (B) by striking ‘‘(as defined in section tion 7 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 7(n)(1))’’; and (2) a description of the 1 or more specific 636) is amended— (C) by adding at the end the following: justifications of the applicable Federal agen- cy with respect to each limitation, preven- (A) in subsection (b)(3)— ‘‘(2) DEFINITION OF PERIOD OF MILITARY CON- tion, or denial of access analyzed under para- (i) in subparagraph (A)— FLICT.—In this subsection, the term ‘period (I) by striking clause (ii); of military conflict’ means— graph (1); and (II) by redesignating clause (i) as clause ‘‘(A) a period of war declared by the Con- (3) an analysis of whether each justifica- (ii); gress; tion described under paragraph (2) complies (III) by inserting before clause (ii), as so re- ‘‘(B) a period of national emergency de- with Federal law (including regulations). designated, the following: clared by the Congress or by the President; ‘‘(i) the term ‘active service’ has the mean- or SA 3476. Mrs. SHAHEEN submitted ing given that term in section 101(d)(3) of ‘‘(C) a period of a contingency operation, an amendment intended to be proposed title 10, United States Code;’’; and as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (IV) in clause (ii), as so redesignated, by States Code.’’. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making adding ‘‘and’’ at the end; (c) NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE DEPLOY- appropriations for the Department of (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘being MENT SUPPORT AND BUSINESS TRAINING PRO- the Interior, environment, and related ordered to active military duty during a pe- GRAM.— agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- riod of military conflict’’ and inserting (1) EXPANSION OF SMALL BUSINESS ADMINIS- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘‘being ordered to perform active service for TRATION OUTREACH PROGRAMS.—Section a period of more than 30 consecutive days’’; 8(b)(17) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. which was ordered to lie on the table; (iii) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘ac- 637(b)(17)) is amended by striking ‘‘and mem- as follows: tive duty’’ each place it appears and insert- bers of a reserve component of the Armed At the appropriate place in division D, in- ing ‘‘active service’’; and Forces’’ and inserting ‘‘members of a reserve sert the following: (iv) in subparagraph (G)(ii)(II), by striking component of the Armed Forces, and the SEC. ll. (a) The Secretary of Housing and ‘‘active duty’’ and inserting ‘‘active service’’; spouses of veterans and members of a reserve Urban Development shall continue to engage and component of the Armed Forces’’. in efforts authorized by the Violence Against

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.047 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5300 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (Public terms in section 3 of the Federal Deposit In- ment priorities described in the memoranda Law 113–4; 127 Stat. 54) to ensure that sur- surance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813); and by James M. Cole, entitled ‘‘Guidance Re- vivors of domestic violence and sexual as- (2) the term ‘‘major disaster’’ has the garding Marijuana Enforcement’’ dated Au- sault are not unlawfully evicted or denied meaning given the term in section 102 of the gust 29, 2013, and entitled ‘‘Guidance Regard- housing by certain landlords based on their Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- ing Marijuana Financial Crimes’’ dated Feb- experience as survivors. gency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122). ruary 14, 2014. (b) Not later than 180 days after the date of (b)(1) Not later than 15 days after the date enactment of this Act, the Secretary of on which a designated point of contact with- SA 3482. Mr. CASSIDY submitted an Housing and Urban Development shall sub- in the Federal Deposit Insurance Corpora- amendment intended to be proposed to mit to Congress a report on the efforts de- tion receives notice from the President or amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. scribed in subsection (a). the Governor of a State that the President SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making has declared a major disaster under section appropriations for the Department of SA 3477. Mr. WICKER submitted an 401 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief amendment intended to be proposed by and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. the Interior, environment, and related him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- 5170) or the Governor has declared a state of agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- propriations for the Department of the disaster for all or part of that State, as ap- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; Interior, environment, and related plicable, the Federal Deposit Insurance Cor- which was ordered to lie on the table; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- poration shall issue guidance to depository as follows: institutions located in the area for which the On page 84, line 5, insert after ‘‘2022’’ the tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; President declared the major disaster or the which was ordered to lie on the table; following: ‘‘, of which not less than $500,000 Governor declared a state of disaster, as ap- shall be made available for wood utilization as follows: plicable, for reducing regulatory burdens for research to develop woody and agricultural At the appropriate place in title V of divi- borrowers and communities in order to fa- biomass conversion of low-value woody bio- sion B, insert the following: cilitate recovery from the disaster. mass using microwave-assisted lique- SEC. lll. (a) None of the funds made (2) The guidance issued under paragraph (1) faction’’. available under this Act for the Mobility shall include instructions from the Federal Fund Phase II auction may be used to con- Deposit Insurance Corporation consistent SA 3483. Mr. CASSIDY submitted an duct such an auction until the Federal Com- with existing flexibility for a major disaster amendment intended to be proposed by declared under section 401 of the Robert T. munications Commission completes a rule- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- making that reassesses the data collection Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- procedures that were used to develop the ini- sistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170). propriations for the Department of the tial eligible areas map for Mobility Fund (c) Not later than 180 days of the date of Interior, environment, and related Phase II, including by examining whether enactment of this Act, the Office of the agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- different factors should be used to create a Comptroller of the Currency, the Board of tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; more accurate map that lessens the burden Governors of the Federal Reserve System, which was ordered to lie on the table; on persons engaging in the challenge process. the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, as follows: (b) For purposes of this section— and the National Credit Union Administra- At the end of title IV of division A, add the (1) the term ‘‘challenge process’’ means the tion shall jointly issue guidance for deposi- following: process established by the Federal Commu- tory institutions affected by a state of dis- nications Commission under which a person aster that is comparable to the guidance PROHIBITION OF FUNDS TO CLOSE THE SOUTHERN may challenge the initial determination that issued by those entities in December 2017 en- RESEARCH STATION ALEXANDRIA FORESTRY an area is ineligible for universal service titled ‘‘Interagency Supervisory Examiner CENTER support provided under Mobility Fund Phase Guidance for Institutions Affected by a SEC. 43ll. (a) None of the funds made II; and Major Disaster’’. available by this Act may be used by the (2) the term ‘‘Mobility Fund Phase II’’ Secretary of Agriculture to relocate activi- means the second phase of the proceeding to SA 3480. Mr. INHOFE submitted an ties, resources, or personnel from, or perma- provide universal service support from the amendment intended to be proposed to nently close, the Southern Research Station Mobility Fund (WC Docket No. 10–90; WT amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. Alexandria Forestry Center in Pineville, Docket No. 10–208). SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making Louisiana. appropriations for the Department of (b) The Secretary shall— SA 3478. Mr. INHOFE submitted an (1) reach out to stakeholders of the Utiliza- the Interior, environment, and related amendment intended to be proposed to tion of Southern Forest Resources research agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. work unit (RWU–4704) to gather feedback tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making from the stakeholders relating to the best which was ordered to lie on the table; appropriations for the Department of ways to ensure the maintenance of a viable as follows: research program at the research station re- the Interior, environment, and related ferred to in subsection (a); and agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- At the appropriate place in title I of divi- sion D, insert the following: (2) based on the feedback provided under tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SEC. 1ll. The Secretary of Transpor- paragraph (1), develop a strategy for main- which was ordered to lie on the table; tation shall consult with the Assistant Sec- taining that research program. as follows: retary of the Army for Civil Works to iden- At the appropriate place in title VII of di- tify any existing authorities and any addi- SA 3484. Ms. WARREN (for herself vision C, insert the following: tional authorities that may be needed to le- and Mr. MARKEY) submitted an amend- SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other pro- verage funds from Department of Transpor- ment intended to be proposed to vision of law, the City of Sand Springs, Okla- tation programs for purposes of inland wa- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. homa, shall be eligible for loans and grants terway project costs. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making provided under the rural community ad- appropriations for the Department of vancement program under subtitle E of the SA 3481. Mr. GARDNER (for himself the Interior, environment, and related Consolidated Farm and Rural Development and Ms. WARREN) submitted an amend- Act (7 U.S.C. 2009 et seq.). agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- ment intended to be proposed by him tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropria- SA 3479. Mr. INHOFE submitted an which was ordered to lie on the table; tions for the Department of the Inte- amendment intended to be proposed to as follows: rior, environment, and related agencies amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. On page 497, line 6, insert ‘‘(including en- for the fiscal year ending September 30, SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making hanced vouchers for projects that have re- 2019, and for other purposes; which was appropriations for the Department of ceived or are receiving State-funded interest ordered to lie on the table; as follows: the Interior, environment, and related reduction payments), HOPE VI vouchers’’ agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- after ‘‘Act’’. lowing: tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SEC. lll. None of the funds made avail- SA 3485. Mrs. MURRAY (for herself which was ordered to lie on the table; able by this Act may be used by any Depart- as follows: and Ms. CANTWELL) submitted an ment or agency to carry out activities that amendment intended to be proposed to At the appropriate place in division B, in- prevent or interfere with the implementa- sert the following: tion of State laws that authorize the use, amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SEC. ll. (a) In this section— distribution, possession, or cultivation of SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (1) the terms ‘‘depository institution’’ and marijuana, unless such activities directly appropriations for the Department of ‘‘State’’ have the meanings given those implicate 1 or more of the Federal enforce- the Interior, environment, and related

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.046 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5301 agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- force agency’’ means the workforce agency cation under section 212(a)(5) of the Immi- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; of the State in which the prospective H–2B gration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. which was ordered to lie on the table; employer intends to employ H–2B non- 1182(a)(5)). as follows: immigrants. (2) AMOUNT.—The Secretary of Labor shall (b) DEPARTMENT OF LABOR.— determine the amount of the fee collected At the appropriate place in division C, in- (1) RECRUITMENT.—As a component of the under paragraph (1) based on the estimated sert the following: labor certification process required before H– costs to carry out this section. SEC. lll. In administering the pilot pro- 2B nonimmigrants are offered employment (3) WAIVER.—The fee authorized under gram established by section 779 of division A through United States Forest Service timber of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 paragraph (1) shall be waived on behalf of or service contracts in the United States, the any prospective H–2B employer that, during (Public Law 115–141), the Secretary of Agri- Secretary of Labor shall require all prospec- culture shall— the 3 fiscal years immediately preceding the tive H–2B employers, before submitting a pe- filing of a petition for labor certification, did (1) ensure that rural areas that are deter- tition to hire H–2B nonimmigrants, to con- mined to be ineligible for the pilot program not commit a major violation of— duct a robust effort to recruit United States (A) the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 have a means of appealing or otherwise chal- workers, including— lenging that determination in a timely fash- U.S.C. 1101 et seq.); (A) advertising at employment or job- (B) the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (29 ion; and placement events, such as job fairs; (2) in determining whether an entity may U.S.C. 201 et seq.); or (B) advertising with State or local work- (C) the Occupational Safety and Health overbuild or duplicate broadband expansion force agencies, nonprofit organizations, or efforts made by any entity that has received Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 651 et seq.). other appropriate entities, and working with (4) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The fee authorized a broadband loan from the Rural Utilities such entities to identify potential employ- Service, not consider loans that were re- under paragraph (1) shall be collected begin- ees; ning on the first day of the first fiscal year scinded or defaulted on, or loans the terms (C) advertising in appropriate media, in- and conditions of which were not met, if the beginning after the date of the enactment of cluding local radio stations and commonly this Act. entity under consideration has not pre- used, reputable Internet job-search sites; viously defaulted on, or failed to meet the (D) provide potential United States work- terms and conditions of, a Rural Utilities ers at least 30 days from the date on which SA 3488. Mr. DONNELLY submitted Service loan or had a Rural Utilities Service a job announcement is posted (or such longer an amendment intended to be proposed loan rescinded. period as the State workforce considers ap- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. propriate) to apply for such employment in SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SA 3486. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself person, by mail, by email, or by facsimile appropriations for the Department of and Mr. WYDEN) submitted an amend- machine; the Interior, environment, and related ment intended to be proposed to (E) include a valid phone number that po- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. tential United States workers may call to tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making get additional information about such em- which was ordered to lie on the table; appropriations for the Department of ployment opportunity; and as follows: the Interior, environment, and related (F) such other recruitment strategies as agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the State workforce agency considers appro- At the appropriate place in title III of divi- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; priate for the sector or positions for which sion C, insert the following: H–2B nonimmigrants would be considered. which was ordered to lie on the table; RURAL HEALTH AND SAFETY EDUCATION (2) SEPARATE PETITIONS.—A prospective H– PROGRAMS as follows: 2B employer shall submit a separate petition In title I of division D, insert the following for each State in which the employer plans Any funds provided by this Act for rural after section 119F: to employ H–2B nonimmigrants as part of a health and safety education programs au- SEC. ll. IMPROVING THE ESSENTIAL AIR United States Forest Service timber or serv- thorized under section 502(i) of the Rural De- SERVICE PROGRAM.——Section 41731 of title ice contract for a period of 7 days or longer. velopment Act of 1972 (7 U.S.C. 2662(i)) shall 49, United States Code, is amended by adding (c) STATE WORKFORCE AGENCIES.—The Sec- be used under those programs to address the at the end the following new subsection: retary of Labor may not grant a temporary opioid abuse epidemic and to combat opioid ‘‘(g) EXCEPTION FOR CERTAIN LOCATIONS labor certification to a prospective H–2B em- abuse in rural communities. WITH HIGH MILITARY USE.—Subparagraph (D) ployer seeking to employ H–2B non- of subsection (a)(1) shall not apply with re- immigrants as part of a United States Forest SA 3489. Mr. WHITEHOUSE sub- spect to any location that— Service timber or service contract until mitted an amendment intended to be ‘‘(1) is certified under part 139 of title 14, after the Director of the State workforce proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- Code of Federal Regulations; agency— posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. ‘‘(2) is not owned by the Federal govern- (1) has provided United States workers who 6147, making appropriations for the De- ment; and may be interested in the position with appli- ‘‘(3) for which not less than 10 percent of cation instructions; partment of the Interior, environment, airport operations in 2017 were by aircraft of (2) has formally consulted with the work- and related agencies for the fiscal year the Armed Forces.’’. force agency director of each contiguous ending September 30, 2019, and for State listed on the prospective H–2B employ- other purposes; which was ordered to SA 3487. Mr. MERKLEY (for himself er’s application and determined that— lie on the table; as follows: and Mr. WYDEN) submitted an amend- (A) the employer has complied with all re- On page 187, line 19, insert ‘‘: Provided, ment intended to be proposed to cruitment requirements set forth in sub- That funds appropriated under this heading section (b) and there is a legitimate demand amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. shall be used to submit to Congress, not for the employment of H–2B nonimmigrants SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making later than a year after the date of enactment in each of those States; or appropriations for the Department of of this Act, a report that identifies jurisdic- (B) the employer has amended the applica- the Interior, environment, and related tions that have a high number of civil jury tion by removing or making appropriate agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- trials and the practices and methods those modifications with respect to the States in jurisdictions use to encourage jury trials, in- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; which the criteria set forth in subparagraph cluding docket management techniques, dis- which was ordered to lie on the table; (A) have not been met; covery practices, and other methods to make as follows: (3) certifies that the prospective H–2B em- jury trials a cost efficient and effective op- At the appropriate place in division A, in- ployer has complied with all recruitment re- tion in civil litigation’’ before the period at sert the following: quirements set forth in subsection (b) or any the end. SEC. ll. REFORMS AND OVERSIGHT TO U.S. other applicable provision of law; and FOREST SERVICE CONTRACTING. (4) makes a formal determination and cer- (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: tifies to the Secretary of Labor that nation- SA 3490. Mr. UDALL submitted an (1) H–2B NONIMMIGRANT.—The term ‘‘H–2B als of the United States are not qualified or amendment intended to be proposed by nonimmigrant’’ means a nonimmigrant de- available to fill the employment opportuni- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- scribed in section 101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(b) of the ties offered by the prospective H–2B em- propriations for the Department of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. ployer. Interior, environment, and related 1101(a)(15)(H)(ii)(b)). (d) SUPPLEMENTAL FEE.— agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (2) PROSPECTIVE H–2B EMPLOYER.—The term (1) ESTABLISHMENT.—Except as provided in tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘‘prospective H–2B employer’’ means a paragraph (3), the Administrator of the Wage United States business that is considering and Hour Division of the Department of which was ordered to lie on the table; employing 1 or more H–2B nonimmigrants. Labor shall collect a supplemental fee from as follows: (3) STATE WORKFORCE AGENCY.—Except as each prospective H–2B employer in conjunc- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- used in subsection (b), the term ‘‘State work- tion with each petition for labor certifi- lowing:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.054 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5302 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 SEC. lll. NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING REAU- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. United States under international agree- THORIZATIONS. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making ments. (a) NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING ASSISTANCE appropriations for the Department of AND SELF-DETERMINATION ACT OF 1996.— SA 3497. Mr. JOHNSON (for himself, the Interior, environment, and related Funds authorized to be appropriated under Mrs. ERNST, and Mr. BLUNT) submitted sections 108, 605(b), and 824 of the Native agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- an amendment intended to be proposed American Housing Assistance and Self-deter- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. mination Act of 1996 (25 U.S.C. 4117; 4195(b); which was ordered to lie on the table; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making 4243) shall be so authorized for each of fiscal as follows: appropriations for the Department of years 2019 through 2025. On page 10, line 18, strike the period at the the Interior, environment, and related (b) HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT end and insert ‘‘: Provided further, That, of ACT OF 1992.—Funds authorized to be appro- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- the amounts made available under this head- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; priated under paragraphs (5)(C) and (7) of sec- ing, not less than $1,000,000 shall be used for tion 184(i) and paragraphs (5)(C) and (7) of breeding and recovery activities for ocelots which was ordered to lie on the table; section 184A(j) of the Housing and Commu- (Leopardus pardalis).’’. as follows: nity Development Act of 1992 (12 U.S.C. At the appropriate place, insert the fol- 1715z–13a(i); 1715z–13b(j)) shall be so author- SA 3495. Mr. CORNYN (for himself lowing: ized for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2025. and Mr. WARNER) submitted an amend- SEC. l. PUBLICATION OF GUIDANCE DOCU- MENTS IN THE INTERNET. SA 3491. Mr. UDALL submitted an ment intended to be proposed to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: amendment intended to be proposed to (1) AGENCY.—The term ‘‘agency’’ has the amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making meaning given that term in section 551 of SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations for the Department of title 5, United States Code. appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related (2) GUIDANCE DOCUMENT.— the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (A) DEFINITION.—The term ‘‘guidance docu- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ment’’— agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (i) means an agency statement of general tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: applicability, other than a rule promulgated which was ordered to lie on the table; under section 553 of title 5, United States as follows: At the appropriate place, insert the fol- Code, that— lowing: At the appropriate place in title I of divi- (I) does not have the force and effect of sion D, insert the following: SEC. lll. INCREASE NATIONAL LIMITATION law; and AMOUNT FOR QUALIFIED HIGHWAY SEC. 1ll. Section 207(n)(1) of title 23, (II) is designated by an agency official as OR SURFACE FREIGHT TRANSFER setting forth— United States Code, is amended— FACILITY BONDS. (aa) a policy on a statutory, regulatory, or (1) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘21 (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 142(m)(2)(A) of months after such date of enactment’’ and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended technical issue; or (bb) an interpretation of a statutory or inserting ‘‘June 4, 2019’’; and by striking ‘‘$15,000,000,000’’ and inserting regulatory issue; and (2) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘30 ‘‘$20,000,000,000’’. (ii) may include— months after such date of enactment’’ and (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments inserting ‘‘on December 3, 2019’’. made by this section shall apply to bonds (I) a memorandum; issued after the date of the enactment of this (II) a notice; SA 3492. Mrs. FISCHER submitted an Act. (III) a bulletin; amendment intended to be proposed to (IV) a directive; amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SA 3496. Mr. CORNYN (for himself, (V) a news release; (VI) a letter; Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. CASSIDY, Mr. PETERS, SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (VII) a blog post; appropriations for the Department of Mr. ROBERTS, and Mr. RUBIO) sub- (VIII) a no-action letter; the Interior, environment, and related mitted an amendment intended to be (IX) a speech by an agency official; and agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- (X) any combination of the items described tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. in subclauses (I) through (IX). which was ordered to lie on the table; 6147, making appropriations for the De- (B) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—The term as follows: partment of the Interior, environment, ‘‘guidance document’’— and related agencies for the fiscal year (i) shall be construed broadly to effectuate On page 455, between lines 18 and 19, insert the purpose and intent of this Act; and the following: ending September 30, 2019, and for (ii) shall not be limited to the items de- SEC. 13l. To the maximum extent prac- other purposes; which was ordered to scribed in subparagraph (A)(ii). ticable, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety lie on the table; as follows: (b) PUBLICATION OF GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS Administration shall ensure the safe and At the appropriate place in title I of divi- ON THE INTERNET.— timely completion of the flexible sleeper sion D, insert the following: (1) IN GENERAL.—On the date on which an berth pilot program of the Administration. SEC. ll. (a) None of the funds appro- agency issues a guidance document, the priated or otherwise made available to the agency shall publish the guidance document SA 3493. Mr. CORNYN submitted an Federal Transit Administration under this in accordance with the requirements under amendment intended to be proposed to title may be used in awarding a contract or paragraph (3). amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. subcontract to an entity on or after the date (2) PREVIOUSLY ISSUED GUIDANCE DOCU- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making of enactment of this Act for the procurement MENTS.—Not later than 180 days after the appropriations for the Department of of an asset within the mass transit and pas- date of enactment of this Act, each agency the Interior, environment, and related senger rail or freight rail subsectors included shall publish, in accordance with the require- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- within the transportation systems sector de- ments under paragraph (3), any guidance document issued by that agency that is in ef- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; fined by President Policy Directive 21 (Crit- ical Infrastructure Security and Resilience) fect on that date. which was ordered to lie on the table; including rolling stock, and the ensuing reg- (3) SINGLE LOCATION.— as follows: ulations, if the entity is owned, directed, or (A) IN GENERAL.—All guidance documents At the appropriate place in title VII of di- subsidized by a country that— published under paragraphs (1) and (2) by an vision C, insert the following: (1) is identified as a nonmarket economy agency shall be published in a single location SEC. ll. Not later than 180 days after the country (as defined in section 771(18) of the on the Internet website under section 206(d) date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1677(18))) as of of the E-Government Act of 2002 (44 U.S.C. of Agriculture shall submit to Congress a re- the date of enactment of this Act; 3501 note) (commonly known as regula- port describing the ways in which conserva- (2) was identified by the United States tions.gov). tion programs administered by the Natural Trade Representative in the most recent re- (B) AGENCY INTERNET WEBSITES.—Each Resources Conservation Service may be bet- port required by section 182 of the Trade Act agency shall, for guidance documents pub- ter used for the conservation of ocelots of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2242) as a priority foreign lished by the agency under paragraphs (1) (Leopardus pardalis) and any action taken country under subsection (a)(2) of that sec- and (2), publish a hyperlink on the Internet by the Chief of the Natural Resources Con- tion; and website of the agency that provides access to servation Service relating to the conserva- (3) is subject to monitoring by the Trade the guidance documents at the location de- tion of ocelots. Representative under section 306 of the scribed in subparagraph (A). Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2416). (C) ORGANIZATION.— SA 3494. Mr. CORNYN submitted an (b) This section shall be applied in a man- (i) IN GENERAL.—The guidance documents amendment intended to be proposed to ner consistent with the obligations of the described in subparagraph (A) shall be—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.055 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5303 (I) categorized as guidance documents; and conducted, including the square footage of (B) The average amount of taxpayer funded (II) further divided into subcategories as any such room or space. union time expended per bargaining unit em- appropriate. ‘‘(3) All information included in a report by ployee. (ii) AGENCY INTERNET WEBSITES.—The the Office of Personnel Management under (C) The specific types of activities or pur- hyperlinks described in subparagraph (B) this subsection with respect to a fiscal poses for which taxpayer funded union time shall be prominently displayed on the Inter- year— was granted, and the impact which the net website of the agency. ‘‘(A) shall be shown both agency-by-agency granting of such taxpayer funded union time (4) RESCINDED GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS.—On and for all agencies; and for such activities or purposes had on agency the date on which a guidance document ‘‘(B) shall be accompanied by the cor- operations. issued by an agency is rescinded, the agency responding information (submitted by the (D) The total number of employees to shall, at the location described in paragraph Office in its report under this subsection) for whom taxpayer funded union time was (3)(A)— the fiscal year before the fiscal year to which granted, and, of that total, the number who (A) maintain the rescinded guidance docu- such report pertains, together with appro- were not engaged in any activities or pur- ment; and priate comparisons and analyses. poses except activities or purposes involving (B) indicate— ‘‘(4) For purposes of this subsection, the the use of taxpayer funded union time. (i) that the guidance document is re- term ‘official time’ means any period of (E) The total amount of compensation (in- scinded; and time, regardless of agency nomenclature— cluding fringe benefits) afforded to employ- (ii) the date on which the guidance docu- ‘‘(A) which may be granted to an employee ees in connection with activities or purposes ment was rescinded. under this chapter (including a collective for which they were granted taxpayer funded (5) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this bargaining agreement entered into under union time. section shall be construed to compel or au- this chapter) to perform representational or (F) The total amount of taxpayer funded thorize the disclosure of information that is consultative functions; and union time spent by employees representing prohibited from disclosure by law. ‘‘(B) during which the employee would oth- Federal employees who are not union mem- erwise be in a duty status.’’. bers in matters authorized by chapter 71 of SA 3498. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an (b) APPLICABILITY.—The amendment made title 5, United States Code. amendment intended to be proposed by by subsection (a) shall be effective beginning (G) A description of any room or space des- him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- with the report which, under the provisions ignated at the agency (or its subcomponent) of such amendment, is first required to be where taxpayer funded union time activities propriations for the Department of the are conducted, including the square footage Interior, environment, and related submitted by the Office of Personnel Man- agement to each House of Congress by a date of any such room or space. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- which occurs at least 6 months after the date (b) In this section, the term ‘‘taxpayer tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; of the enactment of this Act. funded union time’’ means any period of which was ordered to lie on the table; time, regardless of agency nomenclature— as follows: SA 3499. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an (1) which may be granted to an employee under chapter 71 of title 5, United States At the appropriate place, insert the fol- amendment intended to be proposed to Code, to perform representational or consult- lowing: amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ative functions; and SEC. ll. REPORTING REQUIREMENT. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (2) during which the employee would other- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7131 of title 5, appropriations for the Department of wise be in a duty status. United States Code, is amended by adding at the Interior, environment, and related the end the following: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- SA 3501. Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Mr. ‘‘(e)(1)(A) Not later than March 31 of each tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; NELSON, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. COTTON, Mr. calendar year, the Office of Personnel Man- INHOFE, Mr. CASEY, Mrs. ERNST, and agement, in consultation with the Office of which was ordered to lie on the table; Mr. HELLER) submitted an amendment Management and Budget, shall submit to as follows: intended to be proposed by him to the each House of Congress a report on the oper- Strike sections 604 and 608. bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations ation of this section during the fiscal year On page 188, line 14, strike ‘‘transfers:’’ and last ending before the start of such calendar for the Department of the Interior, en- all that follows through line 18 and insert vironment, and related agencies for the year. ‘‘transfers.’’. ‘‘(B) Not later than December 31 of each fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, calendar year, each agency (as defined by On page 238, line 9, strike ‘‘transfers:’’ and and for other purposes; which was or- section 7103(a)(3)) shall furnish to the Office all that follows through line 13 and insert ‘‘transfers.’’. dered to lie on the table; as follows: of Personnel Management the information At the appropriate place, insert the fol- which such Office requires, with respect to SA 3500. Mr. JOHNSON submitted an lowing: such agency, for purposes of the report which SEC. ll. None of the funds appropriated is next due under subparagraph (A). amendment intended to be proposed by or otherwise made available by this Act or ‘‘(2) Each report by the Office of Personnel him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- any other Act with respect to any fiscal year Management under this subsection shall in- propriations for the Department of the may be used to implement, administer, or clude, with respect to the fiscal year de- Interior, environment, and related enforce the final rule with the regulation scribed in paragraph (1)(A), at least the fol- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- identifier number 0910–AG38 published by the lowing information: tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; Food and Drug Administration in the Fed- ‘‘(A) The total amount of official time eral Register on May 10, 2016 (81 Fed. Reg. granted to employees. which was ordered to lie on the table; 28974) with respect to traditional large and ‘‘(B) The average amount of official time as follows: premium cigars. For the purposes of this sec- expended per bargaining unit employee. At the appropriate place, insert the fol- tion, the term ‘‘traditional large and pre- ‘‘(C) The specific types of activities or pur- lowing: mium cigar’’ means— poses for which official time was granted, SEC. ll. (a) No funds made available (1) any roll of tobacco that is wrapped in and the impact which the granting of such under this Act may be used for taxpayer 100 percent leaf tobacco, is bunched with 100 official time for such activities or purposes funded union time under section 7131 of title percent tobacco filler, contains no filter, tip, had on agency operations. 5 of the United States Code, unless— or non-tobacco mouthpiece, weighs at least 6 ‘‘(D) The total number of employees to (1) the time is authorized for an employee pounds per 1,000 count; and whom official time was granted, and, of that to represent an exclusive representative in (A) has a 100 percent leaf tobacco binder total, the number who were not engaged in the negotiation of a collective bargaining and is hand rolled; any activities or purposes except activities agreement under section 7131(a) of title 5, (B) has a 100 percent leaf tobacco binder or purposes involving the use of official United States Code; and is made using human hands to lay the time. (2) the time is authorized for an employee leaf tobacco wrapper or binder onto only one ‘‘(E) The total amount of compensation to conduct activities described in section machine that bunches, wraps, and caps each (including fringe benefits) afforded to em- 4(a)(v)(2) of Executive Order 13837 (83 Fed. individual cigar; or ployees in connection with activities or pur- Reg. 25335; relating to ensuring trans- (C) has a homogenized tobacco leaf binder poses for which they were granted official parency, accountability, and efficiency in and is made in the United States using time. taxpayer-funded union time use)); or human hands to lay each 100 percent leaf to- ‘‘(F) The total amount of official time (3) the Director of the Office of Manage- bacco wrapper individually onto a single ma- spent by employees representing Federal em- ment and Budget has submitted to Congress, chine that bunches, wraps, and caps each in- ployees who are not union members in mat- with respect to fiscal year 2018, a report that dividual cigar on such single machine and ters authorized by this chapter. includes, both agency-by-agency and for all makes no more than 15 cigars per minute; ‘‘(G) A description of any room or space agencies, the following: and designated at the agency (or its subcompo- (A) The total amount of taxpayer funded (2) is not a cigarette or a little cigar (as nent) where official time activities will be union time granted to employees. such terms are defined in paragraphs (3) and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.056 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5304 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 (11), respectively, of section 900 of the Fed- ty of highways and allow for the safe, effi- (1) a summary of the views expressed by eral Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. cient, and productive marketplace transport the individuals and entities consulted under 387)). of livestock, insects, and agricultural com- subsection (c); modities; and (2) a description of the findings of the SA 3502. Mr. HOEVEN (for himself, (4) consider such other issues as the Sec- working group, including the identification Mr. BENNET, Mrs. ERNST, Mr. ROUNDS, retary considers appropriate. of any areas of general consensus among the non-Federal participants in the consultation Ms. SMITH, and Mr. NELSON) submitted (e) COMPOSITION.— under subsection (c); and an amendment intended to be proposed (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary (or a des- by him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- ignee) shall serve as the chair of the working (3) any recommendations for legislative or propriations for the Department of the group. regulatory action that would assist in main- taining and improving the safe, humane, and Interior, environment, and related (2) MEMBERSHIP.— market-efficient transport of livestock, in- (A) IN GENERAL.—The working group shall agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- sects, and agricultural commodities. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; be composed of members appointed by the Secretary, including individuals with knowl- which was ordered to lie on the table; SA 3503. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, as follows: edge and expertise that includes highway safety, the commercial motor vehicle and Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. At the appropriate place in title I of divi- transportation industries, animal husbandry, BOOKER, Mr. MARKEY, Ms. WARREN, and sion D, insert the following: and the transportation of livestock, insects, Mr. MERKLEY) submitted an amend- SEC. lll. WORKING GROUP ON IMPROVING and agricultural commodities. ment intended to be proposed to THE LIVESTOCK, INSECT, AND AGRI- EQUIREMENT CULTURAL COMMODITIES TRANS- (B) R .—The working group amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. PORT INDUSTRIES. shall include, at a minimum, representatives SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: of— appropriations for the Department of (1) AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY.—The term (i) the Department of Agriculture; the Interior, environment, and related ‘‘agricultural commodity’’ means— (ii) State agencies, including State depart- ments of agriculture and transportation; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (A) an agricultural commodity as defined tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; in section 518 of the Federal Crop Insurance (iii) highway and commercial motor vehi- Act (7 U.S.C. 1518); and cle safety organizations; which was ordered to lie on the table; (B) an agricultural commodity as defined (iv) agricultural producers including pro- as follows: in section 395.2 of title 49, Code of Federal ducers of livestock, insects, and agricultural At the appropriate place, insert the fol- Regulations (or successor regulations). commodities; and lowing: (v) commercial motor vehicle operators, (2) LIVESTOCK.—The term ‘‘livestock’’ has TITLE ll—PROTECTING AMERICAN including small business operators and oper- the meaning given the term in section 602 of VOTES AND ELECTIONS the Emergency Livestock Feed Assistance ators who haul livestock, insects, and agri- cultural commodities. SEC. ll1. SHORT TITLE. Act of 1988 (7 U.S.C. 1471). This title may be cited as the ‘‘Protecting (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (f) WORKING GROUP REPORT AND REGU- American Votes and Elections Act of 2018’’. means the Secretary of Transportation. LATORY ACTION.— SEC. ll2. FINDINGS. (4) WORKING GROUP.—The term ‘‘working (1) REPORT.—Not later than 1 year after group’’ means the working group established Congress makes the following findings: the date on which the working group is es- (1) Access to the ballot, free and fair elec- by the Secretary under subsection (b). tablished, the working group shall submit to (b) ESTABLISHMENT.—Not later than 120 tions, and a trustworthy election process are the Secretary a report that includes— at the core of American Democracy. Just as days after the date of enactment of this Act, (A) the findings of the working group, in- the Secretary shall establish a working the Founding Fathers signed their names to cluding a summary of the views expressed by paper supporting their views for a govern- group— individuals and entities consulted under sub- (1) to identify obstacles to safe, humane, ment by and for the people, access to the section (c); and paper ballot is the best way to ensure elec- and market-efficient transport of livestock, (B) the initiatives and regulatory and leg- insects, and agricultural commodities; and tions stay by and for the American people. islative changes that the working group Using paper provides an easily auditable, (2) to develop guidelines and recommended identifies as necessary to protect the safety regulatory or legislative actions to improve tamper proof, and simple way for citizens to of highways and allow for the safe, efficient, access their ballot. It is for these reasons the safe, humane, and efficient transport of and productive marketplace transport of livestock, insects, and agricultural commod- and more that using paper ballots to ensure livestock, insects, and agricultural commod- resilient and fair elections should be the pri- ities. ities. (c) OUTREACH.—In carrying out the duties ority of this Nation. (2) REGULATORY CHANGES.—Not later than (2) Risk-limiting audits will help to pro- of the working group under subsection (b), 120 days after the date on which the Sec- the working group shall consult with— tect our elections from cyberattacks, by en- retary receives the report under paragraph (1) interested Governors; suring that if the electoral outcome is incor- (1), the Secretary shall propose regulatory (2) representatives of State and local agri- rect, for instance because someone tampered changes that take into account the findings cultural and highway safety agencies; with the electronic counts or reporting, the and recommendations of the working group, (3) other representatives of relevant State audit has a large, known probability of cor- including— and local agencies; recting the outcome by requiring a full hand (A) changes to the hours of service regula- (4) members of the public with experience count. Paper ballots are vital to the audit tions under subpart A of part 395 of title 49, in— process since, other than through manual in- Code of Federal Regulations (or successor (A) the livestock, insect, and agricultural spection of a sample of paper ballots, there is regulations); commodities industries; currently no reliable way to determine (B) changes to the electronic logging de- (B) the livestock trucking industry; or whether an election was hacked or the out- vice regulations under subpart B of part 395 (C) transportation safety; and come was miscalculated. of title 49, Code of Federal Regulations (or (5) any other groups or stakeholders that (3) Risk-limiting audits are a cost effective successor regulations), including changes to the working group determines to be appro- way of auditing election results. They gen- regulations relating to the performance and priate. erally require inspecting only a small per- design of electronic logging devices; and (d) CONSIDERATIONS.—In carrying out the centage of the ballots cast in an election, (C) any other changes that the working duties of the working group under subsection and proceed to a full hand count only when (b), the working group shall— group recommends. sampling does not provide strong evidence PPLICATION.—Subsections (a) through (1) consider the impact of the existing (3) A that the reported outcome is correct. This (f) of section 31137 of title 49, United States hours of service regulations under subpart A will ensure that Americans have confidence Code (including any regulations promulgated of part 395 of title 49, Code of Federal Regu- in their election results, without the cost of to carry out those subsections), shall not lations (or successor regulations), on the a full recount of every ballot in the country. apply to commercial motor vehicles hauling commercial transport of livestock, insects, ll livestock, insects, or agricultural commod- SEC. 3. PAPER BALLOT AND MANUAL COUNT- and agricultural commodities; ING REQUIREMENTS. ities until the date on which the Secretary (2) identify incompatibilities and other (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 301(a)(2) of the proposes regulatory changes under para- challenges and concerns caused by the hours Help America Vote Act of 2002 (52 U.S.C. graph (2). of service regulations described in paragraph 21081(a)(2)) is amended to read as follows: (1) and electronic logging device regulations (g) REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS BY SEC- ‘‘(2) PAPER BALLOT REQUIREMENT.— under subpart B of part 395 of title 49, Code RETARY.—Not later than 30 days after the ‘‘(A) VOTER-VERIFIED PAPER BALLOTS.— of Federal Regulations (or successor regula- date on which the Secretary receives the re- ‘‘(i) PAPER BALLOT REQUIREMENT.—(I) The tions), on the transport of livestock, insects, port of the working group under subsection voting system shall require the use of an in- and agricultural commodities; (f)(1), the Secretary shall submit to the ap- dividual, durable, voter-verified, paper ballot (3) identify initiatives and regulatory propriate committees of Congress a report, of the voter’s vote that shall be marked and changes that maintain and protect the safe- including— made available for inspection and

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verification by the voter before the voter’s accordance with applicable State law, except ‘‘(b) ELIGIBILITY.—An entity is eligible to vote is cast and counted, and which shall be that the electronic tally shall not be used as receive a grant under this part if it submits counted by hand or read by an optical char- the exclusive basis for determining the offi- to the Director (at such time and in such acter recognition device or other counting cial certified result. form as the Director may require) an appli- device. For purposes of this subclause, the ‘‘(ii) RULE FOR CONSIDERATION OF BALLOTS cation containing— term ‘individual, durable, voter-verified, ASSOCIATED WITH EACH VOTING MACHINE.—For ‘‘(1) certifications that the entity shall paper ballot’ means a paper ballot marked by purposes of clause (i), only the paper ballots specifically investigate enhanced methods or the voter by hand or a paper ballot marked deemed compromised, if any, shall be consid- devices, including non-electronic devices, through the use of a nontabulating ballot ered in the calculation of whether or not the that will assist such individuals and voters marking device or system, so long as the result of the election could be changed due in marking voter-verified paper ballots and voter shall have the option to mark his or to the compromised paper ballots.’’. presenting or transmitting the information her ballot by hand. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT CLARIFYING printed or marked on such ballots back to ‘‘(II) Except as required to meet the acces- APPLICABILITY OF ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE such individuals and voters, and casting such sibility requirements under paragraph (3), ACCESSIBILITY.—Section 301(a)(4) of such Act ballots; the printed or marked vote selections on any (52 U.S.C. 21081(a)(4)) is amended by inserting ‘‘(2) a certification that the entity shall ballot marked through the use of a ballot ‘‘(including the paper ballots required to be complete the activities carried out with the marking device or system that are used for used under paragraph (2))’’ after ‘‘voting sys- grant not later than December 31, 2020; and vote counting or auditing shall allow inspec- tem’’. ‘‘(3) such other information and certifi- (c) OTHER CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Sec- tion and verification by the voter under sub- cations as the Director may require. tion 301(a)(1) of such Act (52 U.S.C. clause (I) without the aid of any machine or ‘‘(c) AVAILABILITY OF TECHNOLOGY.—Any 21081(a)(1)) is amended— other equipment. technology developed with the grants made (1) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking ‘‘(III) The voting system shall provide the under this section shall be treated as non- ‘‘counted’’ and inserting ‘‘counted, in accord- voter with an opportunity to correct any proprietary and shall be made available to ance with paragraphs (2) and (3)’’; error on the paper ballot before the perma- the public, including to manufacturers of (2) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking nent voter-verified paper ballot is preserved voting systems. ‘‘counted’’ and inserting ‘‘counted, in accord- ‘‘(d) COORDINATION WITH GRANTS FOR TECH- in accordance with clause (ii). ance with paragraphs (2) and (3)’’; NOLOGY IMPROVEMENTS.—The Director shall ‘‘(IV) The voting system shall not preserve (3) in subparagraph (A)(iii), by striking carry out this section so that the activities the voter-verified paper ballots in any man- ‘‘counted’’ each place it appears and insert- carried out with the grants made under sub- ner that makes it possible, at any time after ing ‘‘counted, in accordance with paragraphs section (a) are coordinated with the research the ballot has been cast, to associate a voter (2) and (3)’’; and conducted under the grant program carried with the record of the voter’s vote without (4) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by striking out by the Commission under section 271, to the voter’s consent. ‘‘counted’’ and inserting ‘‘counted, in accord- the extent that the Director and Commission ‘‘(ii) PRESERVATION AS OFFICIAL RECORD.— ance with paragraphs (2) and (3)’’. determine necessary to provide for the ad- The individual, durable, voter-verified, paper (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Notwithstanding sec- vancement of accessible voting technology. ballot used in accordance with clause (i) tion 301(d) of the Help America Vote Act of ‘‘(e) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— shall constitute the official ballot and shall 2002 (52 U.S.C. 21081(d)), each State and juris- There is authorized to be appropriated to be preserved and used as the official ballot diction shall be required to comply with the carry out subsection (a) $10,000,000, to remain for purposes of any recount or audit con- amendments made by this section for the available until expended.’’. ducted with respect to any election for Fed- regularly scheduled election for Federal of- (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of eral office in which the voting system is fice in November 2020, and for each subse- contents of such Act is amended by inserting used. quent election for Federal office. after the item relating to section 246 the fol- ‘‘(iii) MANUAL COUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SEC. ll4. ACCESSIBILITY AND BALLOT lowing new item: RECOUNTS AND AUDITS.—(I) Each paper ballot VERIFICATION FOR INDIVIDUALS ‘‘Sec. 246A. Study and report on accessible used pursuant to clause (i) shall be suitable WITH DISABILITIES. paper ballot verification mech- for a manual audit, and shall be counted by (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 301(a)(3)(B) of the anisms.’’. hand in any recount or audit conducted with Help America Vote Act of 2002 (52 U.S.C. SEC. ll5. RISK-LIMITING AUDITS. respect to any election for Federal office. 21081(a)(3)(B)) is amended to read as follows: (a) IN GENERAL.—Title III of the Help ‘‘(II) In the event of any inconsistencies or ‘‘(B)(i) satisfy the requirement of subpara- America Vote Act of 2002 (52 U.S.C. 21081 et irregularities between any electronic vote graph (A) through the use of at least 1 voting seq.) is amended by inserting after section tallies and the vote tallies determined by system equipped for individuals with disabil- 303 the following new section: counting by hand the individual, durable, ities, including nonvisual and enhanced vis- ‘‘SEC. 303A. RISK-LIMITING AUDITS. voter-verified, paper ballots used pursuant to ual accessibility for the blind and visually ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: clause (i), and subject to subparagraph (B), impaired, and nonmanual and enhanced man- ‘‘(1) RISK-LIMITING AUDIT.— the individual, durable, voter-verified, paper ual accessibility for the mobility and dex- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘risk-limiting ballots shall be the true and correct record terity impaired, at each polling place; and audit’ means a post-election process such of the votes cast. ‘‘(ii) meet the requirements of subpara- that, if the reported outcome of the contest ‘‘(iv) APPLICATION TO ALL BALLOTS.—The graph (A) and paragraph (2)(A) by using a is incorrect, there is at least a 95 percent requirements of this subparagraph shall system that allows the voter to privately chance that the audit will replace the incor- apply to all ballots cast in elections for Fed- and independently verify the permanent rect outcome with the correct outcome as eral office, including ballots cast by absent paper ballot through the presentation, in ac- determined by a full, hand-to-eye tabulation uniformed services voters and overseas vot- cessible form, of the printed or marked vote of all votes validly cast in that election con- ers under the Uniformed and Overseas Citi- selections from the same printed or marked test that ascertains voter intent manually zens Absentee Voting Act and other absentee information that would be used for any vote and directly from voter-verifiable paper voters. counting or auditing; and’’. records. (b) SPECIFIC REQUIREMENT OF STUDY, TEST- ‘‘(B) SPECIAL RULE FOR TREATMENT OF DIS- ‘‘(B) REPORTED OUTCOME.—The term ‘re- ING, AND DEVELOPMENT OF ACCESSIBLE PAPER PUTES WHEN PAPER BALLOTS HAVE BEEN SHOWN ported outcome’ means the outcome of an BALLOT VERIFICATION MECHANISMS.— TO BE COMPROMISED.— election contest which is determined accord- (1) STUDY AND REPORTING.—Subtitle C of ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In the event that— ing to the canvass and which will become the title II of such Act (52 U.S.C. 21081 et seq.) is ‘‘(I) there is any inconsistency between official, certified outcome unless it is revised amended by inserting after section 246 the any electronic vote tallies and the vote tal- by an audit, recount, or other legal process. following new section: lies determined by counting by hand the in- ‘‘(C) INCORRECT OUTCOME.—The term ‘incor- dividual, durable, voter-verified, paper bal- ‘‘SEC. 246A. STUDY AND REPORT ON ACCESSIBLE rect outcome’ means an outcome that differs lots used pursuant to subparagraph (A)(i) PAPER BALLOT VERIFICATION MECHANISMS. from the outcome that would be determined with respect to any election for Federal of- by a full tabulation of all votes validly cast fice; and ‘‘(a) STUDY AND REPORT.—The Director of the National Science Foundation shall make in that election contest, determining voter ‘‘(II) it is demonstrated by clear and con- grants to not fewer than 3 eligible entities to intent manually, directly from voter- vincing evidence (as determined in accord- study, test, and develop accessible paper bal- verifiable paper records. ance with the applicable standards in the ju- lot voting, verification, and casting mecha- ‘‘(D) OUTCOME.—The term ‘outcome’ means risdiction involved) in any recount, audit, or nisms and devices and best practices to en- the winner or set of winners of an election contest of the result of the election that the hance the accessibility of paper ballot voting contest, which might be candidates or posi- paper ballots have been compromised (by and verification mechanisms for individuals tions. damage or mischief or otherwise) and that a with disabilities, for voters whose primary ‘‘(2) BALLOT MANIFEST.—The term ‘ballot sufficient number of the ballots have been so language is not English, and for voters with manifest’ means a record maintained by compromised that the result of the election difficulties in literacy, including best prac- each county that— could be changed, tices for the mechanisms themselves and the ‘‘(A) is created without reliance on any the determination of the appropriate remedy processes through which the mechanisms are part of the voting system used to tabulate with respect to the election shall be made in used. votes;

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‘‘(B) functions as a sampling frame for con- (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of (b)(1) None of the funds appropriated or ducting a risk-limiting audit; and contents for such Act is amended by insert- otherwise made available by this Act or any ‘‘(C) contains the following information ing after the item relating to section 303 the other Act for the National Security Multi- about ballots cast and counted: following new item: Mission Vessel Program may be used to pro- ‘‘(i) The total number of ballots cast and ‘‘Sec. 303A. Risk-limiting audits.’’. cure any of the following components for counted in the election (including under- vessels unless the items are manufactured in votes, overvotes, and other invalid votes). SA 3504. Mr. PETERS (for himself, the United States: (A) Circuit breakers. ‘‘(ii) The total number of ballots cast in Mr. SULLIVAN, and Ms. STABENOW) sub- (B) Welded shipboard anchor and mooring each contest in the election (including mitted an amendment intended to be undervotes, overvotes, and other invalid chain with a diameter of four inches or less. votes). proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- (C) Power conversion equipment. ‘‘(iii) A precise description of the manner posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. (D) Electric generators and alternators. in which the ballots are physically stored, 6147, making appropriations for the De- (E) Auxiliary equipment, including pumps, including the total number of physical partment of the Interior, environment, for all shipboard services. groups of ballots, the numbering system for and related agencies for the fiscal year (F) Propulsion system components (en- each group, a unique label for each group, ending September 30, 2019, and for gines, reduction gears, and propellers). and the number of ballots in each such other purposes; which was ordered to (G) Shipboard cranes. (H) Spreaders for shipboard cranes. group. lie on the table; as follows: ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENT.— (I) Capstans. At the appropriate place, insert the fol- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.— (J) Winches. lowing: ‘‘(A) AUDITS.—Each State and jurisdiction (K) Hoists. SEC. ll. Not later than 2 years after the shall administer risk-limiting audits of the (L) Outboard motors. date of enactment of this Act, the Adminis- results of all elections for Federal office held (M) Windlasses. trator of the Federal Aviation Administra- in the State in accordance with the require- (N) To the extent they are unique to ma- tion, using the latest version of National ments of paragraph (2). rine applications, gyrocompasses, electronic Fire Protection Association 403, ‘‘Standard ‘‘(B) FULL MANUAL TALLY.—If a risk-lim- navigation chart systems, steering controls, for Aircraft Rescue and Fire-Fighting Serv- iting audit conducted under subparagraph pumps, propulsion and machinery control ices at Airports’’, and in coordination with (A) leads to a full manual tally of an election systems, and totally enclosed lifeboats. the Administrator of the Environmental contest, the State or jurisdiction shall use (O) Powered and non-powered valves in Protection Agency, aircraft manufacturers the results of the full manual tally as the of- Federal Supply Classes 4810 and 4820. and airports, shall not require the use of ficial results of the election contest. (P) Machine tools in the Federal Supply fluorinated chemicals to meet the perform- ‘‘(2) AUDIT REQUIREMENTS.— Classes for metal-working machinery num- ance standards referenced in chapter 6 of AC ‘‘(A) RULES AND PROCEDURES.— bered 3405, 3408, 3410 through 3419, 3426, 3433, No: 150/5210–6D and acceptable under ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Risk-limiting audits 3438, 3441 through 3443, 3445, 3446, 3448, 3449, 139.319(l) of title 14, Code of Federal Regula- shall be conducted in accordance with the 3460, and 3461. tions. rules and procedures established by the chief (2) The head of the agency responsible for a procurement described in paragraph (1)may State election official of the State not later Ms. WARREN submitted an than 1 year after the date of the enactment SA 3505. waive the restrictions under such paragraph of this section. amendment intended to be proposed to on a case-by-case basis by certifying in writ- ing to the Committees on Appropriations of ‘‘(ii) MATTERS INCLUDED.—The rules and amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. the Senate and the House of Representatives procedures established under clause (i) may SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making that adequate domestic supplies are not include the following: appropriations for the Department of available on a timely and cost-competitive ‘‘(I) Rules for ensuring the security of bal- the Interior, environment, and related basis. lots and documenting that prescribed proce- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (3) The restrictions under paragraph (1) dures were followed. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; shall not apply to contracts in effect as of ‘‘(II) Rules and procedures for ensuring the which was ordered to lie on the table; the date of the enactment of this Act or to accuracy of ballot manifests produced by ju- as follows: a procurement of spare or repair parts need- risdictions. ed to support components for vessels pro- On page 148, line 25, strike ‘‘$17,500,000’’ and ‘‘(III) Rules and procedures for governing duced or manufactured outside of the United insert ‘‘$28,800,000’’. the format of ballot manifests, cast vote States. records, and other data involved in risk-lim- iting audits. SA 3506. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an SA 3507. Ms. DUCKWORTH submitted ‘‘(IV) Methods to ensure that any cast vote amendment intended to be proposed to an amendment intended to be proposed records used in a risk-limiting audit are amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. those used by the voting system to tally the SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making election results sent to the Secretary of appropriations for the Department of appropriations for the Department of State and made public. the Interior, environment, and related ‘‘(V) Procedures for the random selection the Interior, environment, and related of ballots to be inspected manually during agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- each audit. tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘‘(VI) Rules for the calculations and other which was ordered to lie on the table; which was ordered to lie on the table; methods to be used in the audit and to deter- as follows: as follows: mine whether and when the audit of each At the appropriate place in division D, in- On page 223, line 21, strike ‘‘$44,490,000’’ and contest is complete. sert the following: insert ‘‘49,490,000’’. ‘‘(VII) Procedures and requirements for SEC. ll. (a)(1) None of the funds appro- testing any software used to conduct risk- priated or otherwise made available by this SA 3508. Ms. DUCKWORTH submitted limiting audits. Act or any other Act for the National Secu- an amendment intended to be proposed ‘‘(B) TIMING.—The risk-limiting audit shall rity Multi-Mission Vessel Program may be to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. be completed not later than the date that used on or after the date of the enactment of SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making the result of the election is certified by the this Act to enter into a contract related to appropriations for the Department of State. the acquisition, construction, or conversion ‘‘(C) PUBLIC REPORT.—After the completion of a vessel unless— the Interior, environment, and related of the risk-limiting audit, the State shall (A) the vessel is to be constructed or con- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- publish a report on the results of the audit, verted in the United States; and tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; together with such information as necessary (B) the steel, iron, aluminum, and manu- which was ordered to lie on the table; to confirm that the audit was conducted factured products to be used in the construc- as follows: properly. tion or conversion of the vessel are produced At the appropriate place in division A, in- ‘‘(c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Each State and ju- in the United States. sert the following: risdiction shall be required to comply with (2) The head of the agency responsible for SEC. lll. (a) Not later than 30 days after the requirements of this section for the regu- a contract described under paragraph (1) may the date on which the Administrator of the larly scheduled election for Federal office in waive the restriction under such paragraph Environmental Protection Agency makes an November 2020, and for each subsequent elec- on a case-by-case basis by certifying in writ- appointment under section 11(b) of the Safe tion for Federal office.’’. ing to the Committees on Appropriations of Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1977 (42 (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS RELATED TO the Senate and the House of Representatives U.S.C. 300j–10), the Administrator shall pro- ENFORCEMENT.—Section 401 of such Act (52 that adequate domestic supplies are not vide notification of the appointment to— U.S.C. 21111) is amended by striking ‘‘and available on a timely and cost-competitive (1) the Committee on Appropriations of the 303’’ and inserting ‘‘303, and 303A’’. basis. Senate;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.053 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5307 (2) the Committee on Appropriations of the 2028, no funds made available in this or any other entities with responsibility for the re- House of Representatives; other appropriations Act shall be provided, pair or replacement of bridges described in (3) the Committee on Environment and directly or indirectly, to any proprietary in- subsection (a) information on the readiness Public Works of the Senate; stitution of higher education (as defined in of those projects to commence construction (4) the Committee on Homeland Security section 102(b) of the Higher Education Act of and the cost of the project if Federal grant and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002(b))) that derives less than assistance was available to pay not less than (5) the Committee on Energy and Com- 15 percent of the institution’s revenue from 50 percent of the project costs eligible for as- merce of the House of Representatives; and sources other than Federal financial assist- sistance under title 23, United States Code, (6) the Committee on Oversight and Gov- ance provided under this or any other appro- not including the proceeds from credit as- ernment Reform of the House of Representa- priations Act or any other Federal law, sistance under the TIFIA program (as de- tives. through a grant, contract, subsidy, loan, fined in section 601(a) of that title). (b) The notification under subsection (a) guarantee, insurance, or other means, in- (c) In preparing the report under sub- shall include the following information cluding Federal financial assistance that is section (a), a bridge shall be included only if about the appointment: disbursed or delivered to an institution or on the entity with responsibility for repair or (1) The name of the appointee. behalf of a student or to a student to be used replacement of the applicable bridge— (2) The title of the appointee. to attend the institution, except that such (1) responds to the solicitation made by the (3) The salary of the appointee. assistance shall not include any monthly Secretary under subsection (b); (4) A detailed justification explaining why housing stipend provided under the Post-9/11 (2) identifies each bridge project or cat- the Administrator of the Environmental Educational Assistance Program under chap- egory of smaller bridge projects, consistent Protection Agency deemed the appointment ter 33 of title 38, United States Code. with subsection (d), that the entity requests necessary to appropriately discharge the to include in the report; and functions of the Administrator under the SA 3510. Mr. DURBIN (for himself (3) provides to the Secretary information Safe Drinking Water Act (42 U.S.C. 300f et and Mr. GRASSLEY) submitted an necessary to complete the report, as de- seq.) and other provisions of law. amendment intended to be proposed by scribed by the Secretary in the solicitation him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- under subsection (b). SA 3509. Mr. DURBIN (for himself, (d) In the report under subsection (a), the Ms. WARREN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mrs. propriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related Secretary shall— GILLIBRAND, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) sub- (1) identify— mitted an amendment intended to be agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (A) each bridge project with total eligible proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; project costs greater than $10,000,000; and posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. which was ordered to lie on the table; (B) categories of smaller bridge projects 6147, making appropriations for the De- as follows: identified by responsible entities for other partment of the Interior, environment, At the appropriate place in title VII of di- bridge projects; and related agencies for the fiscal year vision C, insert the following: (2) collect from entities with responsibility ending September 30, 2019, and for SEC. ll. The authority of the Secretary of for repair or replacement of an applicable bridge— other purposes; which was ordered to Health and Human Services to regulate di- rect-to-consumer advertising of prescription (A) the timing and budget for each bridge lie on the table; as follows: drugs, pursuant to the authorities under sec- project or category of smaller bridge At the appropriate place, insert the fol- tions 502(n) and 503C of the Federal Food, projects as reported in the applicable trans- lowing: Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 352(n), portation plans under sections 134 or 135 of SEC. lll. (a) UNDUE HARDSHIP.—No funds 353c), shall include the authority to require title 23, United States Code; or made available in this or any other appro- such advertising to include an appropriate (B) an explanation from those entities as priations Act may be used, including by any disclosure of pricing information with re- to why such projects or categories of smaller contractor of the Federal Government, to spect to such drugs. bridge projects are not included in those ap- contest a claim that is made— plicable transportation plans; and (1) in any proceeding under section 523(a)(8) SA 3511. Mr. BROWN (for himself, (3) distinguish between urban and rural of title 11, United States Code, that except- Mr. INHOFE, and Mr. WHITEHOUSE) sub- bridge projects and categories of smaller ing a debt from discharge would constitute mitted an amendment intended to be bridge projects identified by responsible en- an undue hardship; ; and tities. (2) by a debtor who— proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. (A) is receiving benefits under title II of Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for her- the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.) 6147, making appropriations for the De- SA 3512. or title XVI of that Act (42 U.S.C. 1381 et partment of the Interior, environment, self and Mr. CASSIDY) submitted an seq.) on the basis of disability; and related agencies for the fiscal year amendment intended to be proposed to (B) has been determined by the Secretary ending September 30, 2019, and for amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. of Veterans Affairs to be unemployable due other purposes; which was ordered to SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making to a service-connected disability; lie on the table; as follows: appropriations for the Department of (C) is a family caregiver of an eligible vet- the Interior, environment, and related eran pursuant to section 1720G of title 38; At the appropriate place in title I of divi- sion D, insert the following: agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (D) is a member of a household that has a tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; gross income that is less than 200 percent of SEC. 1ll. (a) Not later than 180 days after the poverty line, and provides for the care the date of enactment of this Act, the Sec- which was ordered to lie on the table; and support of an elderly, disabled, or chron- retary of Transportation (referred to in this as follows: ically ill member of the household of the section as the ‘‘Secretary’’) shall submit to On page 17, line 4, strike ‘‘$88,910,000’’ and debtor or member of the immediate family of Congress a report on the need for repair or insert ‘‘$96,910,000’’. the debtor; replacement of bridges on public roads (in- On page 40, line 7, strike ‘‘$134,673,000’’ and (E) is a member of a household that has a cluding Tribal roads) that— insert ‘‘$126,673,000’’. gross income that is less than 200 percent of (1) have been rated as ‘‘poor’’ in the Na- the poverty line, and the income of the debt- tional Bridge Inventory pursuant to section SA 3513. Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted or is solely derived from benefit payments 144 of title 23, United States Code; (2) have features that do not meet applica- an amendment intended to be proposed under section 202 of the Social Security Act to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (42 U.S.C. 402); or ble engineering standards for the present use (F) during the 5-year period preceding the of the bridges, if the entity with responsi- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making filing of the petition (exclusive of any appli- bility for repair or replacement of the appli- appropriations for the Department of cable suspension of the repayment period), cable bridge, in responding to the Secretary the Interior, environment, and related was not enrolled in an education program under subsection (b), states that the bridge agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- and had a gross income that was less than is prioritized for repair or replacement; or tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; 200 percent of the poverty line during each (3) have structural elements the failure of which was ordered to lie on the table; which would cause the bridge or a portion of year during that period. as follows: (b) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term the bridge to collapse, if the entity with re- ‘‘poverty line’’ means the poverty line (as de- sponsibility for repair or replacement of the On page 437, line 22, strike ‘‘133(b)(1)(A)’’ fined by the Office of Management and Budg- applicable bridge, in responding to the Sec- and insert ‘‘133(b)’’. et and revised annually in accordance with retary under subsection (b), states that the On page 438, line 12, strike ‘‘133(b)(1)(A)’’ section 673(2) of the Community Services bridge is prioritized for repair or replace- and insert ‘‘133(b)’’. Block Grant Act (42 U.S.C. 9902(2)) applicable ment. On page 438, line 18, strike ‘‘133(b)(1)(A)’’ to a household of the size involved. (b) In preparing the report under sub- and insert ‘‘133(b)’’. (c) 85/15 RULE.—Notwithstanding any other section (a), the Secretary shall solicit from On page 438, line 25, strike ‘‘133(b)(1)(A)’’ provision of law, for fiscal years 2019 through State departments of transportation and and insert ‘‘133(b)’’.

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Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted ‘‘(2) WILDFIRE.—The term ‘wildfire’ has the (i) the officer, employee, or agent shall be an amendment intended to be proposed meaning given that term in section 2 of the deemed— to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. Emergency Wildfire Suppression Act (42 (I) to be an employee of the Federal Gov- U.S.C. 1856m). ernment and an investigative or law enforce- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making ‘‘(3) WILDFIRE SUPPRESSION.—The term ment officer; and appropriations for the Department of ‘wildfire suppression’ means an effort to con- (II) to have been acting within the scope of the Interior, environment, and related tain, extinguish, or suppress a wildfire.’’. his or her employment under section 1346(b) agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (b) TABLE OF SECTIONS AMENDMENT.—The and chapter 171 of title 28, United States tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; table of sections for chapter 2 of title 18, Code; which was ordered to lie on the table; United States Code, is amended by inserting (ii) section 1346(b) of title 28, United States as follows: after the item relating to section 40 the fol- Code, shall provide the exclusive remedy for lowing: On page 414, line 24, strike the period and the plaintiff; and (iii) the United States shall be substituted insert the following: ‘‘: Provided further, That ‘‘40A. Operation of unauthorized unmanned in distributing funds made available under aircraft over wildfires.’’. as defendant in the proceeding. ULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this this heading, the Secretary shall ensure that (3) R SA 3517. Mr. HELLER (for himself subsection may be construed to provide im- each State receives not less than $2 per cap- munity to any person who knowingly vio- ita, except in a case in which such a distribu- and Mrs. FEINSTEIN) submitted an lates the civil or constitutional rights of an tion would require the provision of funds to amendment intended to be proposed to individual. a project without an acceptable technical amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. rating.’’. SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (c) SANCTUARY JURISDICTION DEFINED.— appropriations for the Department of (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided under SA 3515. Mrs. FEINSTEIN submitted the Interior, environment, and related paragraph (2), for purposes of this section the term ‘‘sanctuary jurisdiction’’ means any an amendment intended to be proposed agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. State or political subdivision of a State that tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; has in effect a statute, ordinance, policy, or SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making which was ordered to lie on the table; practice that prohibits or restricts any gov- appropriations for the Department of as follows: ernment entity or official from— the Interior, environment, and related On page 5, line 5, strike the period and in- (A) sending, receiving, maintaining, or ex- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- sert the following: ‘‘: Provided, That of the changing with any Federal, State, or local tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; amounts made available under this heading, government entity information regarding which was ordered to lie on the table; $2,000,000 shall be made available to carry the citizenship or immigration status (lawful as follows: out the Colorado River Basin salinity con- or unlawful) of any individual; or (B) complying with a request lawfully On page 414, line 24, strike the period and trol program.’’. made by the Department of Homeland Secu- insert the following: ‘‘: Provided further, That SA 3518. Mr. TOOMEY submitted an rity under section 236 or 287 of the Immigra- not less than 30 days before making grants tion and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1226 and with funds made available under this head- amendment intended to be proposed to 1357) to comply with a detainer for, or notify ing, the Secretary shall make publicly avail- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. about the release of, an individual. able a list of the merit-based technical rat- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making (2) EXCEPTION.—A State or political sub- ings of the Department of Transportation for appropriations for the Department of division of a State shall not be deemed a each application for a grant under this head- the Interior, environment, and related sanctuary jurisdiction based solely on its ing.’’. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- having a policy whereby its officials will not tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3516. Mr. GARDNER (for himself share information regarding, or comply with which was ordered to lie on the table; a request made by the Department of Home- and Mr. BENNET) submitted an amend- as follows: land Security under section 236 or 287 of the ment intended to be proposed by him At the appropriate place in division D, in- Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. to the bill H.R. 6147, making appropria- sert the following: 1226 and 1357) to comply with a detainer re- tions for the Department of the Inte- SEC. ll. STOP DANGEROUS SANCTUARY CITIES garding, an individual who comes forward as rior, environment, and related agencies ACT. a victim or a witness to a criminal offense. for the fiscal year ending September 30, (a) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be (d) SANCTUARY JURISDICTIONS INELIGIBLE 2019, and for other purposes; which was cited as the ‘‘Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cit- FOR CERTAIN FEDERAL FUNDS.— ordered to lie on the table; as follows: ies Act’’. (1) ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION (b) ENSURING THAT LOCAL AND FEDERAL GRANTS.— At the appropriate place, insert the fol- LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS MAY COOPERATE (A) GRANTS FOR PUBLIC WORKS AND ECO- lowing: TO SAFEGUARD OUR COMMUNITIES.— NOMIC DEVELOPMENT.—Section 201(b) of the llll SEC. . PROHIBITION. (1) AUTHORITY TO COOPERATE WITH FEDERAL Public Works and Economic Development (a) AMENDMENT.—Chapter 2 of title 18, OFFICIALS.—A State, a political subdivision Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3141(b)) is amended— United States Code, is amended by adding at of a State, or an officer, employee, or agent (i) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end the following: of such State or political subdivision that the end; ‘‘§ 40A. Operation of unauthorized unmanned complies with a detainer issued by the De- (ii) in paragraph (3)(B), by striking the pe- aircraft over wildfires partment of Homeland Security under sec- riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in tion 236 or 287 of the Immigration and Na- (iii) by adding at the end the following: subsection (b), an individual who operates an tionality Act (8 U.S.C. 1226 and 1357)— ‘‘(4) the area in which the project is to be unmanned aircraft and in so doing know- (A) shall be deemed to be acting as an carried out is not a sanctuary jurisdiction ingly or recklessly interferes with a wildfire agent of the Department of Homeland Secu- (as defined in subsection (c) of the Stop Dan- suppression, or law enforcement or emer- rity; and gerous Sanctuary Cities Act).’’. gency response efforts related to a wildfire (B) with regard to actions taken to comply (B) GRANTS FOR PLANNING AND ADMINISTRA- suppression, shall be fined under this title, with the detainer, shall have all authority TION.—Section 203(a) of the Public Works and imprisoned for not less than 1 year, or both. available to officers and employees of the Economic Development Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. ‘‘(b) EXCEPTIONS.—This section does not Department of Homeland Security. 3143(a)) is amended by adding at the end the apply to the operation of an unmanned air- (2) LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.—In any legal pro- following: ‘‘A sanctuary jurisdiction (as de- craft conducted by a unit or agency of the ceeding brought against a State, a political fined in subsection (c) of the Stop Dangerous United States Government or of a State, subdivision of a State, or an officer, em- Sanctuary Cities Act) may not be deemed an tribal, or local government (including any ployee, or agent of such State or political eligible recipient under this subsection.’’. individual conducting such operation pursu- subdivision, which challenges the legality of (C) SUPPLEMENTARY GRANTS.—Section ant to a contract or other agreement entered the seizure or detention of an individual pur- 205(a) of the Public Works and Economic De- into with the unit or agency) for the purpose suant to a detainer issued by the Depart- velopment Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3145(a)) is of protecting the public safety and welfare, ment of Homeland Security under section 236 amended— including firefighting, law enforcement, or or 287 of the Immigration and Nationality (i) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘and’’ at emergency response. Act (8 U.S.C. 1226 and 1357)— the end; ‘‘(c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section, the fol- (A) no liability shall lie against the State (ii) in paragraph (3)(B), by striking the pe- lowing definitions shall apply: or political subdivision of a State for actions riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and ‘‘(1) UNMANNED AIRCRAFT.—The term ‘un- taken in compliance with the detainer; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: manned aircraft’ has the meaning given the (B) if the actions of the officer, employee, ‘‘(4) will be carried out in an area that does term in section 331 of the FAA Moderniza- or agent of the State or political subdivision not contain a sanctuary jurisdiction (as de- tion and Reform Act of 2012 (49 U.S.C. 40101 were taken in compliance with the de- fined in subsection (c) of the Stop Dangerous note). tainer— Sanctuary Cities Act).’’.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.051 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5309 (D) GRANTS FOR TRAINING, RESEARCH, AND propriations for the Department of the Conservation Fund for Federal land acquisi- TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—Section 207 of the Interior, environment, and related tion shall be $8,788,000; and Public Works and Economic Development agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (5) the amount provided by the matter Act of 1965 (42 U.S.C. 3147) is amended by add- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; under the heading ‘‘LAND ACQUISITION (IN- ing at the end the following: CLUDING RESCISSION OF FUNDS)’’ under the ‘‘(c) INELIGIBILITY OF SANCTUARY JURISDIC- which was ordered to lie on the table; heading ‘‘FOREST SERVICE’’ under the head- TIONS.—Grants funds under this section may as follows: ing ‘‘DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE’’ not be used to provide assistance to a sanc- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- under the heading ‘‘RELATED AGENCIES’’ tuary jurisdiction (as defined in subsection lowing: in title III to be derived from the Land and (c) of the Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities SEC. 1ll. None of the funds made avail- Water Conservation Fund for Federal land Act).’’. able by this Act shall be used to administer, acquisition shall be $0. (2) COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK apply, or enforce requirements under sub- GRANTS.—Title I of the Housing and Commu- chapter IV of chapter 31 of part A of subtitle SA 3522. Mr. LEE (for himself and nity Development Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5301 II of title 40, United States Code, or section Mr. BOOKER) submitted an amendment et seq.) is amended— 113 of title 23, United States Code, with re- intended to be proposed by him to the (A) in section 102(a) (42 U.S.C. 5302(a)), by spect to a project eligible under title 23, bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations United States Code. adding at the end the following: for the Department of the Interior, en- ‘‘(25) The term ‘sanctuary jurisdiction’ has vironment, and related agencies for the the meaning provided in subsection (c) of the SA 3520. Mr. LEE submitted an Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act.’’. amendment intended to be proposed by fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, (B) in section 104 (42 U.S.C. 5304)— him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- and for other purposes; which was or- (i) in subsection (b)— propriations for the Department of the dered to lie on the table; as follows: (I) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘and’’ at Interior, environment, and related At the appropriate place, insert the fol- the end; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- lowing: (II) by redesignating paragraph (6) as para- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SEC. ll. None of the funds appropriated graph (7); and by this Act to the Food and Drug Adminis- (III) by inserting after paragraph (5) the which was ordered to lie on the table; tration shall be used to enforce standards of following: as follows: identity with respect to a food that would be ‘‘(6) the grantee is not a sanctuary juris- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- considered adulterated or misbranded for the diction and will not become a sanctuary ju- lowing: sole reason that the labeling of such food risdiction during the period for which the SEC. ll. None of the funds made available contains a common or usual name of another grantee receives a grant under this title; by this Act may be used to carry out the food, provided that the name of such other and’’. final rule of the Department of Housing and food on the label is preceded by a promi- (ii) by adding at the end the following: Urban Development entitled ‘‘Affirmatively nently displayed qualifying prefix, word, or ‘‘(n) PROTECTION OF INDIVIDUALS AGAINST Furthering Fair Housing’’ (80 Fed. Reg. 42272 phrase that identifies— CRIME.— (July 16, 2015)) or to carry out the notice of (1) an alternative plant or animal source ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—No funds authorized to the Department of Housing and Urban Devel- that replaces some or all of the main charac- be appropriated to carry out this title may opment entitled ‘‘Affirmatively Furthering terizing ingredient or component of such be obligated or expended for any State or Fair Housing Assessment Tool’’ (79 Fed. Reg. other food; or unit of general local government that is a 57949 (September 26, 2014)). (2) the absence of a primary characterizing sanctuary jurisdiction. plant or animal source, or of a nutrient, al- Mr. LEE submitted an ‘‘(2) RETURNED AMOUNTS.— SA 3521. lergen, or other well-known component, that ‘‘(A) STATE.—If a State is a sanctuary ju- amendment intended to be proposed to is ordinarily present in such other food. risdiction during the period for which it re- amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. ceives amounts under this title, the Sec- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SA 3523. Mr. LEE submitted an retary— appropriations for the Department of amendment intended to be proposed by ‘‘(i) shall direct the State to immediately the Interior, environment, and related him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- return to the Secretary any such amounts agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- propriations for the Department of the that the State received for that period; and tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; Interior, environment, and related ‘‘(ii) shall reallocate amounts returned under clause (i) for grants under this title to which was ordered to lie on the table; agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- other States that are not sanctuary jurisdic- as follows: tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; tions. At the appropriate place in Division A, in- which was ordered to lie on the table; ‘‘(B) UNIT OF GENERAL LOCAL GOVERN- sert the following: as follows: MENT.—If a unit of general local government INCREASE IN FUNDING FOR NATIONAL PARK At the appropriate place, insert the fol- is a sanctuary jurisdiction during the period SERVICE DEFERRED MAINTENANCE PROJECTS lowing: for which it receives amounts under this SEC. 433. Notwithstanding any other provi- SEC. lll. The final rule issued by the Ad- title, any such amounts that the unit of gen- sion of this division— ministrator of the Environmental Protection eral local government received for that pe- (1) the amount provided by the matter Agency and the Secretary of the Army enti- riod— under the heading ‘‘LAND ACQUISITION’’ under tled ‘‘Clean Water Rule: Definition of ‘‘(i) in the case of a unit of general local the heading ‘‘BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT’’ ‘Waters of the United States’ ’’ (80 Fed. Reg. government that is not in a nonentitlement under the heading ‘‘DEPARTMENT OF THE 37054 (June 29, 2015)) is repealed, and, until area, shall be returned to the Secretary for INTERIOR’’ in title I to be derived from the such time as the Administrator and the Sec- grants under this title to States and other Land and Water Conservation Fund for Fed- retary issue a final rule after the date of en- units of general local government that are eral land acquisition shall be $3,392,000; actment of this Act that defines the scope of not sanctuary jurisdictions; and (2) the amount provided by the matter waters protected under the Federal Water ‘‘(ii) in the case of a unit of general local under the heading ‘‘LAND ACQUISITION’’ under Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) government that is in a nonentitlement the heading ‘‘UNITED STATES FISH AND WILD- and such new rule is in effect, any regulation area, shall be returned to the Governor of LIFE SERVICE’’ under the heading ‘‘DEPART- or policy revised under, or otherwise affected the State for grants under this title to other MENT OF THE INTERIOR’’ in title I to be as a result of, the rule repealed by this sec- units of general local government in the derived from the Land and Water Conserva- tion shall be applied as if that repealed rule State that are not sanctuary jurisdictions. tion Fund for Federal land acquisition shall had not been issued. ‘‘(C) REALLOCATION RULES.—In reallocating be $11,953,000; amounts under subparagraphs (A) and (B), (3) the amount provided by the matter SA 3524. Ms. BALDWIN submitted an the Secretary shall— under the heading ‘‘OPERATION OF THE NA- amendment intended to be proposed to ‘‘(i) apply the relevant allocation formula TIONAL PARK SYSTEM’’ under the heading amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. under subsection (b), with all sanctuary ju- ‘‘NATIONAL PARK SERVICE’’ under the heading SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making risdictions excluded; and ‘‘DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR’’ in appropriations for the Department of ‘‘(ii) shall not be subject to the rules for re- title I shall be increased by $156,609,000, to be allocation under subsection (c).’’. the Interior, environment, and related made available for deferred maintenance agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- (3) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This subsection and projects of the National Park Service; the amendments made by this subsection (4) the amount provided by the matter tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; shall take effect on October 1, 2018. under the heading ‘‘LAND ACQUISITION AND which was ordered to lie on the table; STATE ASSISTANCE’’ under the heading ‘‘NA- as follows: SA 3519. Mr. LEE submitted an TIONAL PARK SERVICE’’ under the heading On page 324, line 13, strike the colon and amendment intended to be proposed by ‘‘DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR’’ in insert ‘‘; and of which $7,000,000 shall be him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- title I to be derived from the Land and Water available for marketing activities authorized

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under section 204(b) of the Agricultural Mar- TREATMENT OF CERTAIN UNPOPULATED CENSUS heading, $3,051,000 shall be made available for keting Act of 1946 (7 U.S.C. 1623(b)) to pro- TRACTS UNDER NEW MARKETS TAX CREDIT the Partnership Wild and Scenic River Pro- vide to State departments of agriculture, SEC. lll. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section gram.’’. State cooperative extension services, insti- 45D(e)(4)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code of On page 24, line 1, strike ‘‘$179,266,000’’ and tutions of higher education, and nonprofit 1986 is amended— insert ‘‘$178,323,000’’. organizations grants to carry out programs (1) by striking ‘‘is within’’ and inserting On page 24, line 19, strike the period and and provide technical assistance to promote ‘‘is— insert the following: ‘‘: Provided further, That innovation, process improvement, and mar- ‘‘(i) within’’, of the amounts made available under this keting relating to dairy products:’’. (2) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end and insert- heading, $60,856,000 shall be made available ing ‘‘or’’, and for conventional energy activities.’’. SA 3525. Mr. MURPHY (for himself (3) by adding at the end the following new and Mr. BLUMENTHAL) submitted an clause: SA 3531. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted amendment intended to be proposed to ‘‘(ii) a census tract with a population of an amendment intended to be proposed amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. zero, and’’. to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making made by this section shall apply to invest- appropriations for the Department of appropriations for the Department of ments made after the date of the enactment the Interior, environment, and related the Interior, environment, and related of this Act. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3529. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; an amendment intended to be proposed which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: by him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- as follows: On page 16, line 10, strike ‘‘$2,500,369,000’’ On page 411, line 19, strike ‘‘$1,000,000,000’’ propriations for the Department of the and insert ‘‘$2,501,312,000’’. and insert ‘‘$500,000,000’’. Interior, environment, and related On page 16, line 18, strike the period and On page 460, line 14, strike ‘‘$300,000,000’’ agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; insert the following: ‘‘: Provided further, That and insert ‘‘$550,000,000’’. of the amounts made available under this On page 463, line 10, strike ‘‘$650,000,000’’ which was ordered to lie on the table; heading, $3,051,000 shall be made available for and insert ‘‘$900,000,000’’. as follows: the Partnership Wild and Scenic River Pro- In title I of division D, insert the following gram.’’. SA 3526. Mr. BLUMENTHAL sub- after section 119F: On page 40, line 7, strike ‘‘$134,673,000’’ and mitted an amendment intended to be SEC. 119G. Of the funds provided under the insert ‘‘$133,730,000’’. proposed to amendment SA 3399 pro- heading ‘‘Grants-in-aid for Airports’’, up to $1,500,000 shall be for necessary expenses, in- posed by Mr. SHELBY to the bill H.R. SA 3532. Mr. MENENDEZ (for him- cluding an independent verification regime, self, Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. TESTER, Mr. 6147, making appropriations for the De- to provide reimbursement to airport spon- VAN HOLLEN, Ms. WARREN, and Mr. partment of the Interior, environment, sors that do not provide gateway operations BROWN) submitted an amendment in- and related agencies for the fiscal year and providers of general aviation ground sup- ending September 30, 2019, and for port services located at airports within the tended to be proposed to amendment other purposes; which was ordered to 30-mile temporary flight restriction (TFR) SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the lie on the table; as follows: area for any residence of the President that bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations is designated or identified to be secured by for the Department of the Interior, en- At the appropriate place in title IV of divi- the United States Secret Service, and for di- sion D, insert the following: vironment, and related agencies for the rect and incremental financial losses in- fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, SEC. 4ll. The National Railroad Pas- curred while such operators or service pro- senger Corporation shall grant a discount of and for other purposes; which was or- viders are subject to operating restrictions dered to lie on the table; as follows: not less than 15 percent on passenger fares to solely due to the actions of the Federal Gov- members of the public benefit corporation ernment: Provided, That no funds shall be ob- On page 253, strike lines 20 through 25. Veterans Advantage. ligated or distributed to airport sponsors that do not provide gateway operations and SA 3533. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted SA 3527. Mr. BLUMENTHAL (for providers of general aviation ground support an amendment intended to be proposed himself, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. COONS, and services until an independent audit is com- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. Mr. BOOKER) submitted an amendment pleted: Provided further, That losses incurred SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making intended to be proposed to amendment as a result of violations of law, or through appropriations for the Department of SA 3399 proposed by Mr. SHELBY to the fault or negligence, of such operators and the Interior, environment, and related bill H.R. 6147, making appropriations service providers or of third parties (includ- ing airports) are not eligible for reimburse- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- for the Department of the Interior, en- ments: Provided further, That obligation and tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; vironment, and related agencies for the expenditure of funds are conditional upon which was ordered to lie on the table; fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, full release of the United States Government as follows: and for other purposes; which was or- for all claims for financial losses resulting On page 142, between lines 16 and 17, insert dered to lie on the table; as follows: from such actions: Provided further, That the the following: Secretary shall give priority to funding ap- On page 462, line 13, strike ‘‘Act.’’ and in- PROHIBITION OF OIL AND GAS LEASING IN CER- plicants with the most significant, docu- sert ‘‘Act: Provided further, That of the TAIN AREAS OF THE OUTER CONTINENTAL mented financial losses due to these tem- amounts made available under this heading, SHELF porary flight restrictions: Provided further, not less than $150,000,000 shall be for projects That no funds shall be obligated or distrib- SEC. 433. Section 8 of the Outer Continental for the implementation of positive train con- uted under this section to such operators or Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337) is amended trol: Provided further, That in making grants service providers that received reimburse- by adding at the end the following: using the amounts set aside under the pre- ment under section 119F. ‘‘(q) PROHIBITION OF OIL AND GAS LEASING vious proviso, the Secretary shall give pri- IN CERTAIN AREAS OF THE OUTER CONTI- ority to projects relating to commuter rail SA 3530. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted NENTAL SHELF.—Notwithstanding any other operations.’’. an amendment intended to be proposed provision of this section or any other law, to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. the Secretary of the Interior shall not issue SA 3528. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted a lease or any other authorization for the ex- SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making an amendment intended to be proposed ploration, development, or production of oil, appropriations for the Department of to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. natural gas, or any other mineral in— the Interior, environment, and related ‘‘(1) the Mid-Atlantic planning area; SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- ‘‘(2) the South Atlantic planning area; appropriations for the Department of tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; ‘‘(3) the North Atlantic planning area; or the Interior, environment, and related which was ordered to lie on the table; ‘‘(4) the Straits of Florida planning area.’’. agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- as follows: tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; SA 3534. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted which was ordered to lie on the table; On page 16, line 10, strike ‘‘$2,500,369,000’’ and insert ‘‘$2,501,312,000’’. an amendment intended to be proposed as follows: On page 16, line 18, strike the period and by him to the bill H.R. 6147, making ap- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- insert the following: ‘‘: Provided further, That propriations for the Department of the lowing: of the amounts made available under this Interior, environment, and related

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00084 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.058 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5311 agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- tribute to the tracking and prosecution of il- tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; licit funding. which was ordered to lie on the table; which was ordered to lie on the table; (2) SCOPE.—In paragraph (1), the term ‘‘sex as follows: as follows: trafficking’’ means the recruitment, har- boring, transportation, provision, obtaining, At the appropriate place, insert the fol- On page 413, line 19, insert ‘‘Provided fur- patronizing, or soliciting of a person for the lowing: ther, That not less than 50 percent of the purpose of a commercial sex act that is in- SEC. ll. Section 414(b) of the McKinney- funds provided under this heading shall be duced by force, fraud, or coercion, or in Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. for projects located in urban areas:’’ after which the person induced to perform such 11373(b)) is amended to read as follows: ‘‘percent:’’. act has not attained 18 years of age. ‘‘(b) MINIMUM ALLOCATION REQUIREMENT.— (c) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—Not later than 1 ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If, under the allocation SA 3536. Ms. CORTEZ MASTO (for year after the date of the enactment of this provisions applicable under this subtitle, a herself and Mr. TOOMEY) submitted an Act, the Comptroller General of the United metropolitan city or an urban county would amendment intended to be proposed to States shall submit a report to the Com- receive a grant of less than .05 percent of the amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- amounts appropriated under section 408 and SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making fairs of the Senate and the Committee on Fi- made available to carry out this subtitle for nancial Services of the House of Representa- any fiscal year, such amount shall be— appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related tives that— ‘‘(A) in the case of the metropolitan city— (1) summarizes the results of the study re- ‘‘(i) reallocated to the urban county in agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- quired under subsection (b); and which the metropolitan city is located, if the tember 30, 2019, and for other purposes; (2) contains any recommendations for leg- urban county— which was ordered to lie on the table; islative or regulatory action that would im- ‘‘(I) has previously received and adminis- as follows: prove the efforts of Federal agencies to im- tered assistance under this section; and At the appropriate place in division B, in- pede the use of virtual currencies and online ‘‘(II) agrees to receive such amount; or sert the following: marketplaces in facilitating sex and drug ‘‘(ii) if the urban county in which the met- trafficking. ropolitan city is located does not meet the SEC. ll. FIGHTING ILLICIT NETWORKS AND DE- TECTING TRAFFICKING. requirements under subclauses (I) and (II) of SA 3537. Mr. WARNER (for himself, clause (i), reallocated to the State in which (a) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be Mr. HOEVEN, and Ms. CORTEZ MASTO) the metropolitan city is located; and cited as the ‘‘Fight Illicit Networks and De- ‘‘(B) in the case of the urban county— tect Trafficking Act’’ or the ‘‘FIND Traf- submitted an amendment intended to ‘‘(i) provided to the urban county, if the ficking Act’’. be proposed by him to the bill H.R. urban county has previously received and ad- (b) GAO STUDY.— 6147, making appropriations for the De- ministered assistance under this section; or (1) STUDY REQUIRED.—The Comptroller partment of the Interior, environment, ‘‘(ii) if the urban county has not previously General of the United States shall conduct a and related agencies for the fiscal year received and administered assistance under study on how virtual currencies and online marketplaces are used to facilitate sex and ending September 30, 2019, and for this section, reallocated to the State in other purposes; which was ordered to which the urban county is located. drug trafficking that considers— (A) how online marketplaces, including the lie on the table; as follows: ‘‘(2) EXCEPTIONS.— dark web, are being used as platforms to buy, ‘‘(A) METROPOLITAN CITIES.—Notwith- In the matter under the heading ‘‘FEDERAL standing paragraph (1)(A), the grant amount sell, or facilitate the financing of goods or AVIATION ADMINISTRATION’’ under the head- described in paragraph (1) with respect to a services associated with sex trafficking or ing ‘‘OPERATIONS’’ under the heading ‘‘(AIR- metropolitan city shall be provided to the drug trafficking (specifically, opioids and PORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND)’’ in title I of metropolitan city if the metropolitan city— synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, division D, strike ‘‘airport.’’ and insert ‘‘air- ‘‘(i) is located in a State that does not have fentanyl analogs, and any precursor chemi- port: Provided further, That of the amount counties as local governments; cals associated with manufacturing fentanyl appropriated under this heading, up to ‘‘(ii) has a population greater than 40,000 or fentanyl analogs) destined for, originating $6,000,000 shall be used for providing match- but less than 50,000 as used in determining from, or within the United States; ing funds to qualified commercial entities the fiscal year 1987 community development (B) how financial payment methods, in- seeking to demonstrate or validate tech- block grant program allocation; and cluding virtual currencies and peer-to-peer nologies that the Federal Aviation Adminis- ‘‘(iii) was allocated in excess of $1,000,000 in mobile payment services, are being utilized tration considers essential to the safe inte- community development block grant funds by online marketplaces to facilitate the buy- gration of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in fiscal year 1987. ing, selling, or financing of goods and serv- in the National Airspace System at Federal ices associated with sex or drug trafficking ‘‘(B) REALLOCATION TO THE STATE.— Aviation Administration designated UAS destined for, originating from, or within the ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding para- test sites: Provided further, That not later graph (1), any amount allocated to an urban United States; than 60 days after the date of the enactment county or metropolitan city under this sub- (C) how virtual currencies are being used of this Act, the Administrator of the Federal title shall be reallocated to the State in to facilitate the buying, selling, or financing Aviation Administration shall identify es- which the urban county or metropolitan city of goods and services associated with sex or sential integration technologies that could is located if the amount determined under drug trafficking, destined for, originating be demonstrated or validated at test sites clause (ii) for a fiscal year is less than .05 from, or within the United States, when an designated in accordance with the preceding percent of the amounts appropriated under online platform is not otherwise involved; proviso.’’. (D) how illicit funds that have been trans- section 408 and made available to carry out f this subtitle for that fiscal year. mitted online and through virtual currencies are repatriated into the formal banking sys- ‘‘(ii) AMOUNT.—The amount determined AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO under this clause is equal to the sum of— tem of the United States through money MEET laundering or other means; ‘‘(I) the grant that each metropolitan city Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I have 8 located within an urban county would re- (E) the participants (state and nonstate ac- tors) throughout the entire supply chain requests for committees to meet during ceive under the allocation provisions appli- today’s session of the Senate. They cable under this subtitle, in the aggregate; that participate in or benefit from the buy- and ing, selling, or financing of goods and serv- have the approval of the Majority and ‘‘(II) the grant that the urban county ices associated with sex or drug trafficking Minority leaders. would receive under the allocation provi- (either through online marketplaces or vir- Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph sions applicable under this subtitle. tual currencies) destined for, originating 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- from, or within the United States; ‘‘(3) AMOUNTS REALLOCATED TO URBAN COUN- ate, the following committees are au- (F) Federal and State agency efforts to im- TIES.—An urban county that receives pede the buying, selling, or financing of thorized to meet during today’s session amounts reallocated under paragraph of the Senate: (1)(A)(i) may expend those amounts for the goods and services associated with sex or benefit of metropolitan cities located in the drug trafficking destined for, originating COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND urban county.’’. from, or within the United States, including FORESTRY efforts to prevent the proceeds from sex or The Committee on Agriculture, Nu- SA 3535. Mr. MENENDEZ submitted drug trafficking from entering the United trition, and Forestry is authorized to an amendment intended to be proposed States banking system; meet during the session of the Senate (G) how virtual currencies and their under- to amendment SA 3399 proposed by Mr. lying technologies can be used to detect and on Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 10 a.m., to SHELBY to the bill H.R. 6147, making deter these illicit activities; and conduct a hearing on the following appropriations for the Department of (H) to what extent can the immutable and nominations: Dan Michael Berkovitz, the Interior, environment, and related traceable nature of virtual currencies con- of Maryland, to be a Commissioner of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00085 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.061 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5312 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 the Commodity Futures Trading Com- ing entitled ‘‘Strengthening and Em- istration on the 45th anniversary of the mission, and James E. Hubbard, of Col- powering U.S. Amateur Athletes: Mov- agency. orado, to be Under Secretary of Agri- ing Forward with Solutions.’’ There being no objection, the Senate culture for Natural Resources and En- SUBCOMMITTEE ON EAST ASIA, THE PACIFIC, AND proceeded to consider the resolution. vironment. INTERNATIONAL CYBERSECURITY POLICY Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN The Subcommittee on East Asia, The unanimous consent that the resolution AFFAIRS Pacific, and International Cybersecu- be agreed to, the preamble be agreed The Committee on Banking, Housing, rity Policy of the Committee on For- to, and the motions to reconsider be and Urban Affairs is authorized to eign Relations is authorized to meet considered made and laid upon the meet during the session of the Senate during the session of the Senate on table. on Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 10 a.m., to Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 2:30 p.m., to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without conduct a hearing on the following conduct a hearing entitled ‘‘The China objection, it is so ordered. nominations: Elad L. Roisman, of Challenge, Part 1: Economic Coercion The resolution (S. Res. 578) was Maine, to be a Member of the Securi- as Statecraft.’’ agreed to. The preamble was agreed to. ties and Exchange Commission, Mi- f chael R. Bright, of the District of Co- (The resolution, with its preamble, is lumbia, to be President, Government PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR printed in the RECORD of July 18, 2018, National Mortgage Association, and Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask under ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) Rae Oliver, of Virginia, to be Inspector unanimous consent that Bob Ross, a f General, both of the Department of detailee from the Department of Agri- RECOGNIZING AND SUPPORTING Housing and Urban Development, and culture; Ramsay Eyre, an intern at the PUBLIC AWARENESS OF THE IM- Dino Falaschetti, of Montana, to be Di- Appropriations Committee; and Olivia PORTANCE OF TRADEMARKS rector, Office of Financial Research, Harris, an intern in my personal office, AND THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF Department of the Treasury. be granted floor privileges for the THE NATIONAL TRADEMARK EX- COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL length of the current debate on H.R. POSITION OF THE UNITED RESOURCES 6147, an act making appropriations for STATES PATENT AND TRADE- The Committee on Energy and Nat- the Department of the Interior, envi- MARK OFFICE ural Resources is authorized to meet ronment, and related agencies for the Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask during the session of the Senate on fiscal year ending September 30, 2019, unanimous consent that the Judiciary Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 10 a.m., to and for other purposes. Committee be discharged from further conduct a hearing on the following The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without consideration of and the Senate now nominations: Teri L. Donaldson, of objection, it is so ordered. proceed to the consideration of S. Res. Texas, to be Inspector General, Karen f S. Evans, of West Virginia, to be an As- 580. sistant Secretary (Cybersecurity, En- RESOLUTIONS SUBMITTED TODAY The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ergy Security and Emergency Re- objection, it is so ordered. Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask The clerk will report the resolution sponse), Christopher Fall, of Virginia, unanimous consent that the Senate to be Director of the Office of Science, by title. now proceed to the en bloc consider- The bill clerk read as follows: and Daniel Simmons, of Virginia, to be ation of the following Senate resolu- A resolution (S. Res. 580) recognizing and an Assistant Secretary (Energy Effi- tions, which were submitted earlier ciency and Renewable Energy), all of supporting public awareness of the impor- today: S. Res. 589, S. Res. 590, and S. tance of trademarks and the goals and ideals the Department of Energy; Res. 591. of the National Trademark Exposition of the COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL There being no objection, the Senate United States Patent and Trademark Office. RESOURCES proceeded to consider the resolutions There being no objection, the Senate The Committee on Energy and Nat- en bloc. proceeded to consider the resolution. ural Resources is authorized to meet Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask during the session of the Senate on unanimous consent that the resolu- unanimous consent that the resolution Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 10 a.m., to tions be agreed to, the preambles be be agreed to, the preamble be agreed conduct a hearing. agreed to, and the motions to recon- to, and the motions to reconsider be SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE sider be considered made and laid upon considered made and laid upon the The Select Committee on Intel- the table, all en bloc. table. ligence is authorized to meet during The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without the session of the Senate on Tuesday, objection, it is so ordered. objection, it is so ordered. July 24, 2018, at 10 a.m., to conduct a The resolutions were agreed to. The resolution (S. Res. 580) was closed hearing. The preambles were agreed to. agreed to. SUBCOMMITTEE ON OCEANS, ATMOSPHERE, (The resolutions, with their pre- The preamble was agreed to. FISHERIES, AND COAST GUARD ambles, are printed in today’s RECORD (The resolution, with its preamble, is The Subcommittee on Oceans, At- under ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) printed in the RECORD of July 18, 2018, mosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard f under ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) of the Committee on Commerce, f Science, and Transportation is author- HONORING THE MEN AND WOMEN STATE OFFICES OF RURAL ized to meet during the session of the OF THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT HEALTH REAUTHORIZATION ACT Senate on Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at 10 ADMINISTRATION ON THE 45TH OF 2018 a.m., to conduct a hearing entitled ANNIVERSARY OF THE AGENCY ‘‘NOAA’s Blue Economy Initiative: Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I ask Supporting Commerce in American unanimous consent that the Judiciary unanimous consent that the Senate Oceans and Great Lakes.’’ Committee be discharged from further proceed to the immediate consider- SUBCOMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION, consideration of and the Senate now ation of Calendar No. 344, S. 2278. PRODUCT SAFETY, INSURANCE, AND DATA SE- proceed to the consideration of S. Res. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The CURITY 578. clerk will report the bill by title. The Subcommittee on Consumer Pro- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The bill clerk read as follows: tection, Product Safety, Insurance, and objection, it is so ordered. A bill (S. 2278) to amend the Public Health Data Security of the Committee on The clerk will report the resolution Service Act to provide grants to improve Commerce, Science, and Transpor- by title. health care in rural areas. tation is authorized to meet during the The bill clerk read as follows: There being no objection, the Senate session of the Senate on Tuesday, July A resolution (S. Res. 578) honoring the men proceeded to consider the bill, which 24, 2018, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hear- and women of the Drug Enforcement Admin- had been reported from the Committee

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00086 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY6.064 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5313 on Health, Education, Labor, and Pen- the State office of rural health involved The committee-reported amendment sions, with an amendment, as follows: agrees that the grant will not be expended— was agreed to. (The part of the bill intended to be ‘‘(A) to provide health care (including pro- The bill (S. 2278), as amended, was or- stricken is shown in boldface brackets viding cash payments regarding such care); dered to be engrossed for a third read- ‘‘(B) to conduct activities for which Fed- and the part of the bill intended to be eral funds are expended— ing, was read the third time, and inserted is shown in italic.) ‘‘(i) within the State to provide technical passed, as follows: S. 2278 and other nonfinancial assistance under sec- S. 2278 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tion 330A(f); Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in ‘‘(ii) under a memorandum of agreement resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, entered into with the State office of rural Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. health under section 330A(h); or SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘State Offices ‘‘(iii) under a grant under section 338I; This Act may be cited as the ‘‘State Offices of Rural Health Reauthorization Act of ‘‘(C) to purchase medical equipment, to of Rural Health Reauthorization Act of 2018’’. purchase ambulances, aircraft, or other vehi- 2018’’. cles, or to purchase major communications SEC. 2. STATE OFFICES OF RURAL HEALTH. equipment; SEC. 2. STATE OFFICES OF RURAL HEALTH. Section 338J of the Public Health Service ‘‘(D) to purchase or improve real property; Section 338J of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254r) is amended to read as fol- or Act (42 U.S.C. 254r) is amended to read as fol- lows: ‘‘(E) to carry out any activity regarding a lows: ‘‘SEC. 338J. GRANTS TO STATE OFFICES OF certificate of need. ‘‘SEC. 338J. GRANTS TO STATE OFFICES OF RURAL HEALTH. ‘‘(2) AUTHORITIES.—Activities for which a RURAL HEALTH. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary, acting State office of rural health may expend a ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Federal Office of grant under subsection (a) include— through the Director of the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (established under sec- ‘‘(A) paying the costs of maintaining an of- Rural Health Policy (established under sec- tion 711 of the Social Security Act), shall fice of rural health for purposes of subsection tion 711 of the Social Security Act), shall make grants to each State Office of Rural (a); make grants to each State Office of Rural Health for the purpose of improving health ‘‘(B) subject to paragraph (1)(B)(iii), paying Health for the purpose of improving health care in rural areas. the costs of any activity carried out with re- care in rural areas. ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENT OF MATCHING FUNDS.— spect to recruiting and retaining health pro- ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENT OF MATCHING FUNDS.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), fessionals to serve in rural areas of the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), the Secretary may not make a grant under State; and the Secretary may not make a grant under subsection (a) unless the State office of rural ‘‘(C) providing grants and contracts to pub- subsection (a) unless the State office of rural health involved agrees, with respect to the lic and nonprofit private entities to carry health involved agrees, with respect to the costs to be incurred in carrying out the pur- out activities authorized in this section. costs to be incurred in carrying out the pur- pose described in such subsection, to provide ‘‘(3) LIMIT ON INDIRECT COSTS.—The Sec- pose described in such subsection, to provide non-Federal contributions toward such costs retary may impose a limit of no more than non-Federal contributions toward such costs in an amount equal to $3 for each $1 of Fed- 15 percent on indirect costs claimed by the in an amount equal to $3 for each $1 of Fed- eral funds provided in the grant. recipient of the grant. eral funds provided in the grant. ‘‘(2) WAIVER OR REDUCTION.—The Secretary ‘‘(f) REPORTS.—The Secretary may not ‘‘(2) WAIVER OR REDUCTION.—The Secretary may waive or reduce the non-Federal con- make a grant under subsection (a) unless the may waive or reduce the non-Federal con- tribution if the Secretary determines that State office of rural health involved agrees— tribution if the Secretary determines that requiring matching funds would limit the ‘‘(1) to submit to the Secretary reports or requiring matching funds would limit the State office of rural health’s ability to carry performance data containing such informa- State office of rural health’s ability to carry out the purpose described in subsection (a). tion as the Secretary may require regarding out the purpose described in subsection (a). ‘‘(3) DETERMINATION OF AMOUNT OF NON-FED- activities carried out under this section; and ‘‘(3) DETERMINATION OF AMOUNT OF NON-FED- ERAL CONTRIBUTION.—Non-Federal contribu- ‘‘(2) to submit such a report or perform- ERAL CONTRIBUTION.—Non-Federal contribu- tions required in paragraph (1) may be in ance data not later than September 30 of tions required in paragraph (1) may be in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including each fiscal year immediately following any cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, including plant, equipment, or services. Amounts pro- fiscal year for which the State office of rural plant, equipment, or services. Amounts pro- vided by the Federal Government, or services health has received such a grant. vided by the Federal Government, or services assisted or subsidized to any significant ex- ‘‘(g) REQUIREMENT OF APPLICATION.—The assisted or subsidized to any significant ex- tent by the Federal Government, may not be Secretary may not make a grant under sub- tent by the Federal Government, may not be included in determining the amount of such section (a) unless an application for the included in determining the amount of such non-Federal contributions. grant is submitted to the Secretary and the non-Federal contributions. ‘‘(c) CERTAIN REQUIRED ACTIVITIES.—Re- application is in such form, is made in such ‘‘(c) CERTAIN REQUIRED ACTIVITIES.—Re- cipients of a grant under subsection (a) shall manner, and contains such agreements, as- cipients of a grant under subsection (a) shall use the grant funds for purposes of— surances, and information as the Secretary use the grant funds for purposes of— ‘‘(1) maintaining within the State office of determines to be necessary to carry out such ‘‘(1) maintaining within the State office of rural health a clearinghouse for collecting subsection. rural health a clearinghouse for collecting ‘‘(h) NONCOMPLIANCE.—The Secretary may and disseminating information on— and disseminating information on— not make payments under subsection (a) to a ‘‘(A) rural health care issues; ‘‘(A) rural health care issues; State office of rural health for any fiscal ‘‘(B) research findings relating to rural ‘‘(B) research findings relating to rural year subsequent to the first fiscal year of health care; and such payments unless the Secretary deter- health care; and ‘‘(C) innovative approaches to the delivery mines that, for the immediately preceding ‘‘(C) innovative approaches to the delivery of health care in rural areas; fiscal year, the State office of rural health of health care in rural areas; ‘‘(2) coordinating the activities carried out has complied with each of the agreements ‘‘(2) coordinating the activities carried out in the State that relate to rural health care, made by the State office of rural health in the State that relate to rural health care, including providing coordination for the pur- under this section. including providing coordination for the pur- pose of avoiding redundancy in such activi- ‘‘(i) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— pose of avoiding redundancy in such activi- ties; and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For the purpose of mak- ties; and ‘‘(3) identifying Federal and State pro- ing grants under subsection (a), there are au- ‘‘(3) identifying Federal and State pro- grams regarding rural health, and providing thorized to be appropriated øsuch sums as grams regarding rural health, and providing technical assistance to public and nonprofit may be necessary¿ $12,500,000 for each of fis- technical assistance to public and nonprofit private entities regarding participation in cal years 2018 through 2022. private entities regarding participation in such programs. ‘‘(2) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts appropriated such programs. ‘‘(d) REQUIREMENT REGARDING ANNUAL under paragraph (1) shall remain available ‘‘(d) REQUIREMENT REGARDING ANNUAL BUDGET FOR OFFICE.—The Secretary may not until expended.’’. BUDGET FOR OFFICE.—The Secretary may not make a grant under subsection (a) unless the Mr. ROUNDS. I ask unanimous con- make a grant under subsection (a) unless the State involved agrees that, for any fiscal sent that the committee-reported State involved agrees that, for any fiscal year for which the State office of rural amendment be agreed to; that the bill, year for which the State office of rural health receives such a grant, the office oper- as amended, be considered read a third health receives such a grant, the office oper- ated pursuant to subsection (a) of this sec- ated pursuant to subsection (a) of this sec- tion will be provided with an annual budget time and passed; and that the motion tion will be provided with an annual budget of not less than $150,000. to reconsider be considered made and of not less than $150,000. ‘‘(e) CERTAIN USES OF FUNDS.— laid upon the table. ‘‘(e) CERTAIN USES OF FUNDS.— ‘‘(1) RESTRICTIONS.—The Secretary may The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘(1) RESTRICTIONS.—The Secretary may not make a grant under subsection (a) unless objection, it is so ordered. not make a grant under subsection (a) unless

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:31 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00087 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24JY6.066 S24JYPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with SENATE S5314 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE July 24, 2018 the State office of rural health involved State office of rural health for any fiscal in the day, and morning business be agrees that the grant will not be expended— year subsequent to the first fiscal year of closed; further, that following leader ‘‘(A) to provide health care (including pro- such payments unless the Secretary deter- remarks, the Senate resume consider- viding cash payments regarding such care); mines that, for the immediately preceding ation of H.R. 6147. ‘‘(B) to conduct activities for which Fed- fiscal year, the State office of rural health eral funds are expended— has complied with each of the agreements The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘(i) within the State to provide technical made by the State office of rural health objection, it is so ordered. and other nonfinancial assistance under sec- under this section. f tion 330A(f); ‘‘(i) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— ‘‘(ii) under a memorandum of agreement ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For the purpose of mak- ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. entered into with the State office of rural ing grants under subsection (a), there are au- TOMORROW health under section 330A(h); or thorized to be appropriated $12,500,000 for ‘‘(iii) under a grant under section 338I; each of fiscal years 2018 through 2022. Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, if there ‘‘(C) to purchase medical equipment, to ‘‘(2) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts appropriated is no further business to come before purchase ambulances, aircraft, or other vehi- under paragraph (1) shall remain available the Senate, I ask unanimous consent cles, or to purchase major communications until expended.’’. that it stand adjourned under the pre- equipment; Mr. ROUNDS. Mr. President, I sug- vious order. ‘‘(D) to purchase or improve real property; gest the absence of a quorum. There being no objection, the Senate, or The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ‘‘(E) to carry out any activity regarding a at 8:20 p.m., adjourned until Wednes- certificate of need. clerk will call the roll. day, July 25, 2018, at 10 a.m. ‘‘(2) AUTHORITIES.—Activities for which a The bill clerk proceeded to call the f State office of rural health may expend a roll. grant under subsection (a) include— Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask NOMINATIONS ‘‘(A) paying the costs of maintaining an of- unanimous consent that the order for fice of rural health for purposes of subsection the quorum call be rescinded. Executive nominations received by (a); The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. the Senate: ‘‘(B) subject to paragraph (1)(B)(iii), paying ROUNDS). Without objection, it is so or- THE JUDICIARY the costs of any activity carried out with re- dered. J. NICHOLAS RANJAN, OF PENNSYLVANIA, TO BE spect to recruiting and retaining health pro- UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE WESTERN fessionals to serve in rural areas of the f DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA, VICE KIM R. GIBSON, RE- State; and ORDER OF PROCEDURE TIRED. ‘‘(C) providing grants and contracts to pub- DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask lic and nonprofit private entities to carry TAMARA BONZANTO, OF NEW JERSEY, TO BE AN AS- out activities authorized in this section. unanimous consent that it be in order SISTANT SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (OFFICE ‘‘(3) LIMIT ON INDIRECT COSTS.—The Sec- to call up the following amendments to OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND WHISTLEBLOWER PROTEC- TION), VICE DONALD P. LOREN, RESIGNING. retary may impose a limit of no more than amendment No. 3399: Moran No. 3433, 15 percent on indirect costs claimed by the Udall No. 3414. I further ask consent f recipient of the grant. that at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25, ‘‘(f) REPORTS.—The Secretary may not CONFIRMATIONS make a grant under subsection (a) unless the the Senate vote in relation to the State office of rural health involved agrees— Moran and Udall amendments in the Executive nominations confirmed by ‘‘(1) to submit to the Secretary reports or order listed and that there be no sec- the Senate July 24, 2018: performance data containing such informa- ond-degree amendments in order to the NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD tion as the Secretary may require regarding amendments prior to the votes. BRUCE LANDSBERG, OF SOUTH CAROLINA, TO BE A activities carried out under this section; and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY ‘‘(2) to submit such a report or perform- BOARD FOR A TERM EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2022. objection, it is so ordered. JENNIFER L. HOMENDY, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE A MEMBER ance data not later than September 30 of OF THE NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD each fiscal year immediately following any f FOR A TERM EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2019. fiscal year for which the State office of rural ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, JULY f health has received such a grant. 25, 2018 ‘‘(g) REQUIREMENT OF APPLICATION.—The Secretary may not make a grant under sub- Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask WITHDRAWAL section (a) unless an application for the unanimous consent that when the Sen- Executive Message transmitted by grant is submitted to the Secretary and the ate completes its business today, it ad- the President to the Senate on July 24, application is in such form, is made in such journ until 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 25; 2018 withdrawing from further Senate manner, and contains such agreements, as- further, that following the prayer and surances, and information as the Secretary consideration the following nomina- determines to be necessary to carry out such pledge, the morning hour be deemed tion: subsection. expired, the Journal of proceedings be RYAN WESLEY BOUNDS, OF OREGON, TO BE UNITED approved to date, the time for the two STATES CIRCUIT JUDGE FOR THE NINTH CIRCUIT, VICE ‘‘(h) NONCOMPLIANCE.—The Secretary may DIARMUID F. O’SCANNLAIN, RETIRED, WHICH WAS SENT not make payments under subsection (a) to a leaders be reserved for their use later TO THE SENATE ON JANUARY 8, 2018.

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ON THE DEPARTURE OF ETHAN day, July 23, 2018 I would have voted ‘aye’ on American elected to public office in the South- LAUER, DEPUTY PARLIAMEN- both. east United States that year. In the beginning, TARIAN f Senator Johnson faced many obstacles due to segregation but rose above the adversity, be- HON. PAUL D. RYAN PERSONAL EXPLANATION coming an influential lawmaker and attaining OF WISCONSIN the position of Chairman of the Judiciary Com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. YVETTE D. CLARKE mittee. Tuesday, July 24, 2018 OF NEW YORK All the while, Senator Johnson maintained a Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, my IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES successful law practice. He was the driving colleagues, rise to commend Ethan Lauer on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 force in getting the legendary Muhammad Ali’s boxing license reinstated in 1970. Ali had his exemplary service to the people’s House. Ms. CLARKE of New York. Mr. Speaker, on Ethan, who began here in 1999 as an As- been stripped of his boxing license in the July 23, 2018, I was unavoidably detained and sistant Parliamentarian, has served as the prime of his career due to his opposition to the missed recorded votes No. 366 through 367. Deputy Parliamentarian since 2012. While his Vietnam War. After big cities across the coun- Had I been present: on Roll Call No. 366, H.R. departure is certainly bittersweet, I am pleased try refused to host a match in which Ali would 2345, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and to note that he is returning to our shared participate, Senator Johnson offered Atlanta home state of Wisconsin for a position serving Pass, as Amended, the National Suicide Hot- as a location where the fight could take place. the Wisconsin State Assembly. line Improvement Act, I would have voted Yea; Senator Johnson fought behind the scenes to Ethan has been a tremendous asset to the on Roll Call No. 367, H.R. 4881, On Motion to get state and local officials to agree so that ul- House, from his encyclopedic knowledge of Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended, timately, Muhammad Ali could fight inside the rules and procedures, to his drafting and inter- the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act, I ring in a match that would lead the way for Ali pretation skills, which have been invaluable would have voted Yea. to eventually reclaim the heavyweight crown. during procedural challenges. Our presiding f Over the years, Senator Johnson received officers, in particular, have come to rely on IN RECOGNITION OF THE many awards and accolades for his legal, po- Ethan’s ability to quickly and clearly navigate HONORABLE LEROY R. JOHNSON litical, and civic work. In 1996, his portrait was a parliamentary situation. hung on the third floor of the State Capitol Given its importance to members, Ethan’s near the Senate chamber where he served for role in publishing the precedents of the House HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR. twelve years. In 2000, the Georgia State Sen- merits special mention. He has served as the OF GEORGIA ate passed a resolution renaming a portion of Managing Editor of the House Rules and Man- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fulton Industrial Boulevard as Leroy Johnson- ual since 2007. In addition, he has worked on Fulton Industrial Boulevard. In 2016, he was three volumes of House Practice and three Tuesday, July 24, 2018 awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by volumes of precedents. Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise Over the years, Ethan has always brought today to recognize and commend a prominent the State Bar of Georgia and the Chief Jus- an unbreakable demeanor and positive spirit attorney, exemplary civil rights leader, former tice’s Commission on Professionalism for his to his duties. He has that rare combination of Georgia State Senator, mentor to many, and a untiring commitment to volunteer participation endless patience and extraordinary dedication man whose life has truly impacted the world, in the community throughout his legal career. that has made him essential to keeping this in- the Honorable Leroy Reginald Johnson. Sen- Senator Johnson has accomplished much in stitution functioning. His record of public serv- ator Johnson will be celebrating his 90th birth- his life but none of this would be possible ice is one to which every Parliamentarian and day with family and friends on July 28, 2018 without the love and support of his wife, Cleo- House employee should aspire. at the Georgian Terrace Hotel in Atlanta, patra, and son, Michael Vince. On behalf of the whole House, I thank Georgia. On a personal note, I have had the great Ethan for his service and wish his wife, Erin, Leroy Reginald Johnson was born on July pleasure of knowing Senator Johnson since and their children Anna and Sadie, well as 28, 1928 in Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated high school in 1964 when he spoke in Mont- they return to the Badger State. from Booker T. Washington High School in gomery, Alabama at the Alabama State Asso- f 1945. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree ciation of Student Councils’ meeting where I PERSONAL EXPLANATION from Morehouse College in 1949 and a mas- was presiding as State Student Council Presi- ter’s degree from Atlanta University (now Clark dent. He was a schoolmate of Dr. Martin Lu- Atlanta University) in 1951. From 1950 to ther King, Jr. at Washington High School and HON. JAIME HERRERA BEUTLER at Morehouse College. Like Dr. King he was OF WASHINGTON 1954, Senator Johnson taught social science influenced greatly by Dr. Benjamin E. Mays to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in the Atlanta school system. He then enrolled in law school at North Carolina Central Univer- use his life to make a difference for humanity. Tuesday, July 24, 2018 sity, earning his law degree in 1957. I was inspired by this successful lawyer and Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. Mr. Speaker, on Following his graduation from law school, public official and was motivated to emulate Wednesday, July 18, 2018, I am wrongly re- Fulton County hired him as a criminal investi- his career path. I attended Morehouse Col- corded on Roll Call 354. I intended to support gator, the first African American to be hired by lege, became a civil rights lawyer, and twelve House Amendment 925 to H.R. 6147, the Inte- the solicitor general’s office (now the District years after meeting him, I was elected to the rior, Environment, Financial Services, and Attorney’s office). As the Civil Rights Move- Georgia State House and 14 years later to the General Government Appropriations Act of ment ramped up, he became involved in dem- State Senate and in 1992 to the U.S. Con- 2019. onstrations and protests. When black college gress. I have truly been blessed by Senator f students conducted mass sit-ins at Rich’s De- Johnson’s friendship, counsel, and mentorship throughout the years. PERSONAL EXPLANATION partment Store lunch counters in October 1960, he was present as one of the several Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the community leaders advising the students, who House to join my wife Vivian and me, along HON. PRAMILA JAYAPAL included Julian Bond. with the people of the state of Georgia, in rec- OF WASHINGTON In 1962, he was elected to the Georgia ognizing and commending former State Sen- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES State Senate, making him the first African ator Leroy Johnson for his outstanding profes- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 American to be elected to the Georgia Gen- sional achievements and service. Moreover, Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, had I been eral Assembly since the end of the Recon- we extend our best wishes to him as he, his present for roll call vote 366 and 367 on Mon- struction era. He was also the first African family, and friends celebrate his 90th birthday.

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

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.001 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E1052 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks July 24, 2018 PERSONAL EXPLANATION RECOGNIZING OSS VETERAN many. However, it was her parents’ concern HOWARD POLLARI about Russia that caused them to flee. Russia had seized her mother’s brother and sent him HON. JAIME HERRERA BEUTLER HON. BRADLEY SCOTT SCHNEIDER to Siberia never to be heard from again. As a OF WASHINGTON OF ILLINOIS professional chemist, Mall’s father feared being pressed into Russia’s weapons develop- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ment program or much worse. Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Tuesday, July 24, 2018 When Mall was about six months old the Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today family consisting of her mother, father, and Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. Mr. Speaker, on to recognize Mr. Howard Pollari, a World War sister fled under cover of night with basically Monday, July 23, 2018, I am not recorded on II veteran of the Office of Strategic Services nothing but the clothes on their backs. The one vote because I was unavoidably detained (OSS), and a resident of Illinois’s Tenth Dis- family spent several years in a Swedish ref- due to weather impacting my commercial trict. ugee camp and then in the general population flight. The OSS was a wartime intelligence agen- of Sweden. In 1951 Mall and her family were Had I been present, I would have voted Yes cy, and precursor to the Central Intelligence sponsored by a family friend from Canada and on Roll Call 336. Agency (CIA), that played an integral part in were able to migrate to Canada. our military and intelligence operations during Mall lived in Canada until she married John f World War II. Members of the service trained, Chaney, a resident of Florida, in 1982. Mall supplied, and fought alongside resistance or- became a U.S. citizen and has paid homage AGOA AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ganizations throughout Europe and Asia as to the United States by respecting our laws, SUPPORTING INTERNATIONAL they battled against the Axis Powers. becoming a respected and loved member of TRADE RELATIONS WITH AFRICA For two and a half years, Mr. Pollari com- the community, the state of Florida, and the mitted his life to the service of our country. country. Beginning in 1944, he participated in five Happy Birthday Mall, and best wishes. HON. TERRI A. SEWELL ‘‘Carpetbagger’’ operations as part of the f 857th Bomb Squadron of the OSS delivering OF ALABAMA SUMMER INTERN ELIJAH ALLISON much-needed supplies to resistance fighters IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and allies in Nazi-occupied Norway. These Tuesday, July 24, 2018 dangerous stealth missions were typically HON. KEN BUCK flown on moonlit nights and at low level to OF COLORADO Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, last avoid enemy detection. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES week, I had the privilege of attending the an- Mr. Pollari’s role as a flight engineer was Tuesday, July 24, 2018 nual forum on the African Growth and Oppor- vital to the success and survival of these mis- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- tunity Act (AGOA), where we focused on forg- sions, as he was responsible for making in- ognize Elijah Allison for his hard work and ing new strategies for U.S.-Africa trade and in- flight repairs to the B–24 aircrafts during the dedication to the people of Colorado’s Fourth vestment. It was an honor meeting with Afri- airdrop missions. District as an intern in my Washington, D.C. can leaders to continue the discussion on how Mr. Pollari was one of more than 13,000 in- office for the summer of 2018. we can continue to develop trade between the dividuals employed by the OSS at the war’s The work of this young man has been ex- United States and sub-Saharan Africa. peak. Today, fewer than 100 former OSS emplary, and I know he has a bright future. He members remain alive, and for too long their I want to thank all of the Members of Con- served as a tour guide, interacted with con- service and sacrifice was not properly recog- gress who have worked together to support stituents, and learned a great deal about our nized. and maintain the African Growth and Oppor- nation’s legislative process. I was glad to be Earlier this year, Congress awarded the tunity Act. Since the legislation’s passage in able to offer this educational opportunity, and Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian 2000, the strong bipartisan support that AGOA look forward to seeing him build his career in honor, to those who served in the OSS in rec- has received is proof of our nation’s commit- public service. ment to expanding global markets for U.S. ognition of their heroic and pioneering service Elijah plans to continue working in public goods and services. It shows that at our core, to our country. service after this internship. I wish him the It is my great honor and privilege to recog- despite President Trump’s protectionist views best as he pursues his career path. Mr. nize Howard Pollari on behalf of a grateful na- on trade and recent attacks on our allies, we Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Elijah Alli- tion for his service to our country and allies as Americans value any opportunity to son for his service the last several months to during World War II. I look forward to pre- strengthen international relations and develop the people of Colorado’s 4th District. strong democracies. senting him and his family with a copy of the f Trade with Africa has greatly benefited the Congressional Gold Medal in person this Au- United States and Africa. By allowing duty-free gust. PERSONAL EXPLANATION access to the U.S. market for exports from 40 f ´ sub-Saharan countries, AGOA offers African TRIBUTE TO MALL CHANEY ON HON. LUIS V. GUTIERREZ countries tangible incentives to continue their HER 75TH BIRTHDAY OF ILLINOIS efforts in opening their economies, while also IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES reinforcing internationally recognized human HON. DON YOUNG Tuesday, July 24, 2018 rights. While exporting $13.8 billion in goods ´ to the United States under the act in 2017, OF ALASKA Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- AGOA nations also continued to make efforts IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES avoidably absent in the House chamber for to enact policies that observe the rule of law, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Roll Call votes 366 and 367 on Monday, July political pluralism, and the right to due proc- 23, 2018. Had I been present, I would have Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. Mr. Speaker, I rise voted ‘‘Yea.’’ ess, fighting poverty and corruption along the today to pay tribute to a person of great merit f way. As a member of the Ways and Means on the occasion of her 75th birthday. It is often committee, and as a representative of the stated that the United States is great because JOBS AND INVESTOR CONFIDENCE state of Alabama, whose economy is highly it is a nation of immigrants. Mr. Speaker, I ACT OF 2018 dependent on trade, I will continue to be sup- would agree with this statement with the addi- portive of AGOA because it promotes invest- tion of the word legal in front of immigrants. SPEECH OF ment and strengthens our global economy. Mall Chaney is an example of such a person HON. MAXINE WATERS I applaud both American and African gov- who worked within the law to become a citizen OF CALIFORNIA ernment officials, the private sector, and the of the United States. I understand that it is not IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES people of the AGOA nations for working so an easy task. hard to maximize the benefits of AGOA. I en- Mall was born in Estonia in 1943 in the mid- Tuesday, July 17, 2018 courage us to continue working together to en- dle of World War II. At that time Estonia was Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Mr. hance our commitment to Africa. in peril at the hands of Russia as well as Ger- Speaker, S. 488 would not have been possible

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K24JY8.002 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1053 without the hard work of staff. I thank them for SUMMER INTERN ANGEL Tennis Professionals 500 level event in the their efforts and include in the RECORD the fol- CALDWELL United States and one of only four profes- lowing names: sional tennis tournaments combining men’s Katelynn Bradley, Kris Erickson, Eric Her- HON. KEN BUCK and women’s events. It is also recognized as sey, Bruce Johnson, Erika Jeffers, Erica OF COLORADO an international level tournament by the Wom- Loewe, Esther Kahng, Marcos Manosalvas, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES en’s Tennis Association. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Represent- Charla Ouertatani, Lisa Peto, Courtney Robin- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 atives to join me in recognizing the tour- son, Glen Sears, Katy Strohmeier. Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- nament’s 50th edition by celebrating ‘‘Tennis ognize Angel Caldwell for her hard work and Week in the District of Columbia,’’ commemo- f dedication to the people of Colorado’s Fourth rated July 28 through August 5, 2018, as well HONORING TEXAS A&M UNIVER- District as an intern in my Washington, D.C. as acknowledging the Washington Tennis & SITY–KINGSVILLE NCAA MEN’S office for the summer of 2018. Education Foundation for a world-class sport- OUTDOOR TRACK AND FIELD The work of this young woman has been ing event and contributions raised for D.C. CHAMPIONSHIP exemplary, and I know she has a bright future. youth. She served as a tour guide, interacted with f constituents, and learned a great deal about PERSONAL EXPLANATION HON. FILEMON VELA our nation’s legislative process. I was glad to be able to offer this educational opportunity, OF TEXAS and look forward to seeing her build her ca- HON. GWEN MOORE OF WISCONSIN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES reer in public service. Angel plans to continue pursuing her degree IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Virginia Union University at the end of this Tuesday, July 24, 2018 internship. I wish her the best as she pursues Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- her career path. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to ably absent on July 23, 2018 and missed Roll Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to con- recognize Angel Caldwell for her service the gratulate the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Call Votes 366 and 367. Had I been present, last several months to the people of Colo- I would have voted YES on both roll calls. Javelinas on their 2018 NCAA Division II rado’s 4th District. f Men’s Outdoor Track and Field National f Championship. TRIBUTE TO PRESIDENT AND RECOGNIZING THE CITI OPEN The Javelinas capped off an impressive CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF TENNIS TOURNAMENT season as National Champions on May 26, THE SAGINAW COUNTY CHAMBER 2018 thanks to the enduring dedication and OF COMMERCE ROBERT VAN leadership of head coach Ryan Dall and the HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON DEVENTER entire coaching staff. During the highly com- OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA petitive national meet of 113 total teams, the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. JOHN R. MOOLENAAR Javelinas scored 65 points and won four indi- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 OF MICHIGAN vidual National Champion titles. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to I want to congratulate the athletes. Charles ask the House of Representatives to recog- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Greaves secured a critical first place finish in nize the Citi Open Tennis Tournament, taking Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today the triple jump event for the Javelinas, and place July 28 through August 5, 2018, in Rock to pay tribute to Robert Van Deventer, the joined Deon Hope, Javier Lopez and Todd Creek Park, on its 50th edition in the District President and CEO of the Saginaw County Nicholas in their first place win in the 4 x 100 of Columbia. This tournament is not only a Chamber of Commerce, upon his retirement. meter relay race. Senior Javier Lopez claimed Washington tennis tradition, but also an eco- During his more than fifteen years with the back-to-hack titles in the 100 meter hurdles in nomic staple in the region. Saginaw County Chamber, Bob has been a his last event as a Javelina. Richard Cer- The Washington tennis tournament, now recognized community leader and a leading vantes impressively finished first overall after known as the Citi Open Tennis Tournament, advocate for enhancing the Great Lakes Bay trailing behind in 15th place in the shot put was founded in 1969 by tennis legend and Region. In fact, numerous non-profit organiza- event. I am very proud of the hard work and Hall of Famer Donald Dell and his business tions have recruited Bob to serve as an advi- perseverance these gentlemen demonstrated partner John Harris with the support of Arthur sor and have sought his expertise; Bob has on the national stage. Ashe, the first African American to win both served on the Great Lakes Bay Regional The National Championship team was com- the U.S. Open and Wimbledon tournaments. Branding and Communications Council, Sagi- prised of: Joshua Adame, Seth Barker, Ashe declared he would participate in the in- naw County Business and Education Partner- Marckenley Betony, Jamarkus Birks, Raymond augural tournament under two conditions: that ship, the Great Lakes Regional Convention Borjon, Jesus Caballero, Richard Cervantes, the tournament would take place in a naturally and Visitors Bureau, Saginaw Future, Inc., the Johnnie Davila, Robert Downs, Damian integrated neighborhood, and that it would be SVSU College of Business and Management Feeney, Kentwuan Freeman, Hilario Garcia, played on public land where all people could Advisory Board and the CMU Alumni Advisory come together, enjoy the sport and share the Charles Greaves, Daniel Guerrero, Miguel Board of Directors just to list a few. experience. Today, the tournament remains at Bob also served as President and member Hanze, Johnathon Harper, Drew Hill, Deon its original location, 16th & Kennedy Streets of the Board of Directors for the Great Lakes Hope, Arturo Huerta, Kenneth Jackson, Lane NW, in Rock Creek Park. Bay Regional Alliance. Under his leadership, Janecka, Sean Landez, Javier Lopez, Elias In 1972, Dell gifted the tournament to the Bob increased communication and joint ven- Madrid, Ricky Medrano, Lane Michna, Todd Washington Tennis & Education Foundation tures amongst Bay, Isabella, Midland and Nicholas, Jasiah Patterson, Andrew Perez, (then called the Washington Area Tennis Pa- Saginaw counties. At a time when the City of Supun Randeniya, Jorge Rios, Francisco trons), a nonprofit organization supporting Saginaw was about to close the doors on the Solis, Shane Stehle, Juan Suarez, Joseph local education causes for over 1,500 low-in- Saginaw Civic Center, Bob along with the Swierc, Jose Ventura IV, Dean Wallace, Chris- come and underserved children in the District. Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, led a topher Williams, Brandon Wilson, Ayman The Citi Open Tennis Tournament draws successful campaign to restore and upgrade Zahafi, Kenny Zamorano, and Vitaly Zhgun. the best players in the world, making D.C. a the building into what is now the Dow Event The coaching staff included: Ryan Dall, Tim global tennis destination. The tournament is Center. This advancement set in motion the Miller, Aared Sampson, and Amber Perry. also seen on television in over 140 countries, campaign to redevelop the deteriorating down- Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing contributing to the city’s reputation as a tourist town Saginaw. Bob and the Alliance have the great accomplishment of the Texas A&M- destination. Recent economic impact studies been able to enhance our local communities Kingsville Javelinas. As their Representative in found that the estimated total gross impact of by drawing tourism to the Great Lakes Bay Congress, I am very proud of all their hard the Citi Open Tennis Tournament on the re- Region. work and commitment that resulted in this ex- gional economy exceeds $25 million annually. Throughout Bob’s illustrious career with the ceptional achievement. The tournament is the only Association of Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, he

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.006 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E1054 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks July 24, 2018 truly embodied its mission and vision. From servant to all mankind, Mrs. Carolyn G. Ran- HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE supporting the success of local businesses to dolph. Mrs. Randolph, Life Member of Alpha OF OFFICER DIEGO MORENO building healthy organizations and community Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., has been elected through his volunteerism, Bob has dedicated to serve as the South Atlantic Regional Direc- HON. DAVID G. REICHERT his efforts to revitalizing Saginaw County and tor, reflecting her distinguished leadership in OF WASHINGTON creating an exceptional place to live and work. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. A luncheon IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES On behalf of the Fourth Congressional Dis- honoring her will be held on Saturday, July 28, Tuesday, July 24, 2018 trict of Michigan, I am honored today to recog- nize Robert Van Deventer upon his retirement 2018 at 1 p.m. at the Green Island Country Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to from the Saginaw County Chamber of Com- Club in Columbus, Georgia. remember Police Officer Diego Moreno who merce and extend my appreciation for his A native of Columbus, Georgia, Carolyn re- died in the line of duty on Sunday, July 22, 2018. commitment to Saginaw and the Great Lakes ceived a Bachelor of Science degree in Sec- Bay Region. On that somber day, Washington State’s ondary Mathematics from the University of law enforcement lost one of their own. Officer f North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Diego Moreno from the Kent Police Depart- SUMMER INTERN LIAM MULLETT Science degree from North Carolina A&T ment lost his life in the line of duty while plac- State University, and an Education Specialist ing spike strips while assisting to apprehend HON. KEN BUCK degree from Columbus State University. the suspects in an active vehicle pursuit. Officer Moreno was loved by his community OF COLORADO Winston Churchill said, ‘‘We make a living and his colleagues. Having grown up in Ven- by what we get, but we make a life by what IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ezuela, Officer Moreno used his fluency in Tuesday, July 24, 2018 we give.’’ Through every stage of her life, Mrs. Spanish to help translate between his fellow Randolph has always given of herself to oth- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- officers and the large Hispanic population in ers. She served as an educator for many ognize Liam Mullett for his hard work and the community in which they serve. The Kent dedication to the people of Colorado’s Fourth years before retiring and today, she serves as Police Department said, ‘‘His contributions to District as an intern in my Washington, D.C. a Clinical Supervisor for the Mathematics our department and positive impact on his co- office for the summer of 2018. Woodrow Wilson Fellows and an adjunct in- workers and the community have been signifi- The work of this young man has been ex- structor at Columbus State University. cant.’’ An eight-year veteran with the department, emplary, and I know he has a bright future. He Carolyn’s service also extends into her served as a tour guide, interacted with con- Officer Moreno served in the civil disturbance church life at Fourth Street Missionary Baptist unit as a hostage negotiator and a defense stituents, and learned a great deal about our Church in Columbus, Georgia where she is an nation’s legislative process. I was glad to be tactics instructor, and has been recognized for active member. A dedicated servant of God, able to offer this educational opportunity, and his heroic actions while serving with the de- look forward to seeing him build his career in she has served in the Deacon’s Wives, Chris- partment. After saving an elderly woman from public service. tian Education, Pastoral Relations, and Men’s a fire, Officer Moreno received the Chiefs Liam plans to continue pursuing his degree and Women’s Ministries. Award for Exceptional Duty in 2016. He was also honored by the Kent City Council with the at Princeton at the end of this internship. I Carolyn was first initiated in Alpha Kappa Lifesaving Medal for saving someone from an wish him the best as he pursues his career Alpha Sorority, Inc. through the Alpha Psi path. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize opioid overdose in June of last year. Omega Chapter in Wilmington, North Carolina, Since his passing, Washington State has Liam Mullett for his service the last several the first Greek letter organization among Afri- months to the people of Colorado’s 4th Dis- greatly mourned his loss. Our thoughts and can-American women in Southeastern North trict. prayers are with his loving family that he Carolina. She is currently a member of the leaves behind, his wife and his two children. f Gamma Tau Omega Chapter in Columbus, We also remember his colleagues at the Kent PERSONAL EXPLANATION Georgia where she has served as President Police Department as they face the heartbreak (two terms), First Vice President, Second Vice of losing a coworker and friend. President, House Treasurer, Chaplain, Chair Over the next week, in Kent, Washington, HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ his family, friends, colleagues, and community of the Connections Committee, a member of OF TEXAS will unite to celebrate his life and honor his IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Graduate Advisors Council, former Chair service to our country. We recognize that Tuesday, July 24, 2018 of the Scholarship Committee, and first Presi- same service here in Washington, D.C. today. dent of the chapter’s foundation, Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on I join with his family, friends, and community S.I.S.T.E.R.S., Inc. July 18, 2018 during Roll Call No. 345, I was in thanking Police Officer Diego Moreno for his inadvertently recorded as voting ‘‘aye.’’ I sup- She has diligently served at the local, re- service. port the National Endowment for the Arts and gional, and international levels within Alpha f the National Endowment for the Humanities, Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and was recently SUMMER INTERN JANSON and my vote should be recorded as ‘‘no.’’ The awarded the 2018 Georgia Legislative Wom- REQUIST NEA and NEH are essential because they en’s Caucus Servant Leadership Award, which support and strengthen our great country’s was presented by Georgia State Representa- HON. KEN BUCK rich and diverse cultural heritage and history. tive Carolyn Hugley (District 136) during Wom- OF COLORADO These organizations promote excellence en’s History Month. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES across all of America’s communities and de- serve Congress’ unwavering support. I look Mrs. Randolph has accomplished many Tuesday, July 24, 2018 forward to supporting the NEA and the NEH in things in her life but none of these would have Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- the future. been possible without the enduring love and ognize Janson Requist for his hard work and f support of her husband, Chester; their three dedication to the people of Colorado’s Fourth daughters, and their three grandchildren. District as an intern in my Washington, D.C. IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. office for the summer of 2018. CAROLYN G. RANDOLPH Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join my The work of this young man has been ex- wife Vivian and me, along with the more than emplary, and I know he has a bright future. He HON. SANFORD D. BISHOP, JR. 730,000 constituents of the Second Congres- served as a tour guide, interacted with con- OF GEORGIA sional District of Georgia, in extending our sin- stituents, and learned a great deal about our IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cerest congratulations to Mrs. Carolyn G. Ran- nation’s legislative process. I was glad to be dolph for being elected the South Atlantic Re- able to offer this educational opportunity, and Tuesday, July 24, 2018 gional Director for Alpha Kappa Alpha Soror- look forward to seeing him build his career in Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise ity, Inc. and for her many years of service to public service. today to recognize the work and service of a her community, nation, and all mankind. Janson plans to continue pursuing his de- dedicated educator, woman of grace, and gree at Colorado Christian University and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.010 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1055 working as a public servant after this intern- districts—we all have important stories to tell District of Columbia, because unlike in other ship. I wish him the best as he pursues his ca- that provide education to visitors—but it is also jurisdictions, officers and professionals of the reer path. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recog- imperative that we help bring much needed Court Services and Offender Supervision nize Janson Requist for his service the last development to our communities. Agency for the District of Columbia (CSOSA) several months to the people of Colorado’s Thanks again to Chairman CALVERT and come under congressional jurisdiction. 4th District. Ranking Member MCCOLLUM, and I urge all of CSOSA and the Pretrial Services Agency f my colleagues to continue supporting this his- for the District of Columbia (PSA) are dedi- toric preservation funding as we finalize appro- cated to reducing recidivism and enhancing INCREASING FY19 FUNDING FOR priations for FY19. public safety in the nation’s capital. CSOSA HISTORIC PRESERVATION OF f and PSA are recognized as model community CIVIL RIGHTS SITES supervision entities because of their use of PERSONAL EXPLANATION evidence-based practices and community part- HON. TERRI A. SEWELL nerships. OF ALABAMA HON. PATRICK T. McHENRY On any given day, CSOSA is responsible IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF NORTH CAROLINA for supervising approximately 15,000 individ- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES uals on probation, parole or supervised re- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 lease, while PSA supervises over 18,000 de- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I fendants over the course of a year. Charged rise today to state my excitement that Demo- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- with having to balance issues of public safety crats and Republicans came together this year ably detained. Had I been present, I would with social services and reentry support, the and supported my amendments to increase have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 366, and employees of CSOSA and PSA help to en- FY 2019 funding for competitive grants to pre- YEA on Roll Call No. 367. hance the security of everyone who lives, serve the sites and stories of the Civil Rights f works or visits the District. movement and grants for Civil Rights Preser- Mr. Speaker, again, I extend my gratitude to RECOGNIZING OUR NATION’S COM- vation of sites on Historically Black Colleges these public servants for their commitment, MUNITY CORRECTIONS PROFES- and Universities. In total, our amendments compassion and contributions to healthier and SIONALS DURING PRETRIAL, boosted funding for civil rights research by safer communities throughout the United PROBATION AND PAROLE SUPER- $4,500,000 for Fiscal Year 2019. I greatly ap- States. I ask the House of Representatives to VISION WEEK 2018 preciate the bipartisan commitment and sup- join me in acknowledging the impact commu- port from Interior Subcommittee Chairman nity corrections professionals have on the CALVERT, Ranking Member MCCOLLUM, and HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON quality of life of all Americans throughout our Democratic Assistant Leader CLYBURN. OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA country by recognizing July 15 through July These grants, as part of the National Park IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 21, 2018, as Pretrial, Probation and Parole Service’s Historic Preservation Fund, are criti- Supervision Week 2018. cally important to protecting and preserving Tuesday, July 24, 2018 f Civil Rights history. As the Congresswoman Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to representing the 7th Congressional District of recognize the nation’s community corrections PERSONAL EXPLANATION Alabama, also known as the Civil Rights Dis- professionals and the vital role they play in en- trict, I can personally attest to the impact hancing public safety throughout the United HON. MICHAEL R. TURNER these grants have in the community. Many States. In honor of the invaluable contributions OF OHIO historic events of the Civil Rights Movement of these dedicated public servants, the Amer- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES took place within my district, including the 16th ican Probation and Parole Association (APPA) Street Baptist Church bombing, the Children’s and its associated members have designated Tuesday, July 24, 2018 March, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and July 15 through July 21, 2018, ‘‘Pretrial, Pro- Mr. TURNER. Mr. Speaker, due to inclem- Bloody Sunday. We are fortunate that the Na- bation and Parole Supervision Week 2018.’’ I ent weather, I was unable to vote. Had I been tional Park Service is preserving and inter- thank the thousands of men and women who present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call preting these stories, and I am grateful for the perform these important public safety duties, No. 366, and YEA on Roll Call No. 367. Park Service’s dedication to telling a more and urge my colleagues in the House of Rep- f complete version of America’s history. resentatives to join me in support of APPA’s The National Park Service also brings much week-long recognition efforts this year. PERSONAL EXPLANATION needed economic revitalization to communities In my congressional district, the nation’s in my district through tourism. In Birmingham, capital, thousands of women and men serve HON. MARK POCAN the Civil Rights National Monument and other as pretrial, probation and parole officers or ad- OF WISCONSIN ministrators. As public servants, these con- sites are playing a critical role as part of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES new National Civil Rights Trail. In my home- stituents, along with many other Americans, town of Selma, the NPS Selma Interpretive commit themselves on a daily basis to helping Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Center attracts tourism to the rural black belt improve the lives of those involved in the Mr. POCAN. Mr. Speaker, on July 23, 2018 community. These historic sites will also help criminal justice system. The work of these pro- I was not able to participate in the 6:30 pm generate economic activity beyond tourism. In fessionals ultimately results in stronger and vote series. I would like to reflect how I would fact, for each dollar invested in National Parks, safer communities for all. have voted if I were present: YEA on Roll Call 10 dollars is generated in national economic Community corrections professionals are re- No. 366; and YEA on Roll Call No. 367. activity. sponsible for the supervision of adult and juve- f As the foot soldiers of the Civil Rights nile offenders in communities throughout our movement grow older, it is imperative that nation. These trained professionals go above IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNIVER- every effort is made to preserve the stories and beyond the call of duty by connecting SITY OF TEXAS-RIO GRANDE and sites of the era. There is no place more their clients to supportive services, community- VALLEY’S CHESS CLUB equipped for such preservation than Histori- based resources, employment opportunities, cally Black Colleges and Universities. These housing programs and other evidence-based HON. FILEMON VELA institutions and their students have a legacy practices that help individuals successfully OF TEXAS that is inseparable from the Civil Rights Move- complete supervision and reenter society. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ment. They continue to play a role in activism Community corrections professionals strive to and education that would make many of those provide these services and support, while si- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 who came before them proud. multaneously providing client supervision, Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to cele- The funding that my amendments provided crime prevention and restorative justice. brate The University of Texas-Rio Grande Val- in the House Interior Appropriations bill for FY In honor of Pretrial, Probation and Parole ley (UTRGV) Chess Club for their victory at 2019 is an investment aimed at both historic Supervision Week 2018, I want to particularly the President’s Cup. preservation and economic development. Not recognize those who carry out community cor- The President’s Cup, also known as the only is it important to preserve history in our rections and supervision services here in the Final Four of Chess, determines the national

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K24JY8.009 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E1056 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks July 24, 2018 championship for the United States Chess water treatment is a persistent issue in poverty TRIBUTE TO THE BRILLIANT LIFE Federation. The UTRGV chess team ad- stricken communities. I have been working to OF DR. THADDEUS C. vanced to the President’s Cup by placing in address this problem by helping secure an ad- RADZILOWSKI the top four at the Pan-American Intercolle- ditional $1.8 billion in funding for wastewater giate Team Chess Championship. infrastructure in addition to introducing the HON. MARCY KAPTUR Under the leadership of Coach Bartek Rural Septic Tank Access Act. This Act would OF OHIO Macieja, the team, composed of provide adequate resources for rural families IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Grandmasters Calors Antonio Hevia Alejano, to afford proper septic systems. Vladimir Belous, Kamil Dragun, Hovhannes UN Ambassador Nikki Haley publicly stated Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Gabuzyan, and Andrey Stukopin, won their that the UN report and its conclusion about Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of first championship over five-time consecutive poverty in America was ‘‘patently ridiculous’’ the bipartisan Polish Caucus, I rise to pay trib- champion Webster University, two-time cham- and questioned why poverty in the U.S. need- ute to the brilliant life and unique contribution pion Texas Tech, and St. Louis University. ed to be examined. I personally invite Ambas- to scholarship of Dr. Thaddeus C. Radzilowski UTRGV has a history of success, finishing in sador Haley to my district to witness firsthand who passed away on July 20, 2018 at the age second place at a previous tournament. the poverty and systemic environmental con- of 80. The UTRGV Chess Club competes at the cerns that millions of Americans experience Dr. Radzilowski was the co-founder and state, national, and international levels. The and suffer from every single day. President of the largest Polish American think group also helps promote chess within the Our nation cannot boast such greatness if tank in the United States known as the Piast local community by organizing tournaments, those suffering the most are left behind. As a Institute founded in Hamtramck, MI. An aca- camps, and chess classes. proud product of Selma, I know tenacity and demic giant in his field, he taught at several Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to honor the grit is commonplace among the great folks of prestigious universities including the University UTRGV Chess Club today. I wish them luck in the 7th Congressional District. But to be able of Michigan, Madonna University, Heidelberg future competitions and congratulate them on to overcome obstacles, basic needs must be College, Southwest Minnesota State Univer- their national championship. met and health concerns should be ad- sity, and finally as President of St. Mary Col- f dressed. We have no option but to stand firm lege. in our fight on the very real and pervasive He was a prolific leader in the Polish Amer- INADEQUATE WASTEWATER poverty all over rural America and in the area ican community, who uniquely understood the TREATMENT—ENVIRONMENTAL I call home. importance of preserving Polish-American her- INJUSTICE IN AMERICA f itage in the United States. He held a piercing dedication to accurately and painstakingly re- HON. TERRI A. SEWELL IN RECOGNITION OF DAVID count the sacrificial history of Poland, its peo- OF ALABAMA PORTMAN ple, and its diaspora. The history of Poland, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES often under-presented, resulted from the anni- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. hilation by the Russian military squads OF NEW JERSEY (NKVD) of over 23,000 of its preeminent lead- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ers in academia, the military, and religious and rise today to address the pervasive and ongo- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 community life. Those who would have re- ing environmental injustice affecting the citi- corded the 20th century’s most bloodied bat- zens of the 7th Congressional District of Ala- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tles were annihilated, making Dr. bama. Many residents of the Black Belt de- recognize David Portman for his immeas- Radzilowski’s scholarship all the more critical. pend on septic tanks for sewage disposal. Be- urable contributions to the community and to Under his leadership, the Piast Institute cause 35–45 percent of residents in the Black congratulate him as he receives the Distin- made significant contributions to the study of Belt face poverty, many cannot afford spend- guished Leadership Award at Hollywood Golf Central and Eastern Europe including pub- ing thousands of dollars on a septic tank and Club’s 2018 Benefit for the Jewish Federation lishing articles and school curricula, convening the upkeep it requires. in the Heart of New Jersey. Mr. Portman’s phi- key experts, presenting exhibitions, and men- As a result, many have turned to a far less lanthropy and professional accomplishments toring the next generation of leaders in his expensive but more alarming alternative: using are truly deserving of this body’s recognition. field. Thanks to his dedication, he was the re- ‘‘straight pipes’’ to transfer human waste from President of Triad Group, a development, cipient of countless awards including the the home directly to their backyards. This construction and management company, Mr. Cavaliers Cross of the Polish Order of Merit means that folks going for a walk and children Portman is an accomplished and respected presented to him by the Polish President. playing in their yards are in direct contact with businessman in New Jersey. For more than A man committed to serving others, Dr. sewage and human waste. During heavy 35 years, Triad Group has completed numer- Radzilowski served with dignity and honor in rains, these constituents are left helpless in ous projects, including medical facilities, legal the U.S. Armed Forces in Vietnam. He truly defending not only their homes, but their offices, and residential properties. In addition embodied America’s values which bind us. health from the effects of raw sewage and to his professional work, Mr. Portman is an ac- Mr. Speaker, please allow me to join hun- human waste. The heavy rains forces waste to tive member and leader in the Jewish commu- dreds of thousands of grateful Polish Ameri- go back up pipes and back into homes. The nity. He currently serves on the Leaders cans in my district and across the United issue of inadequate wastewater treatment is Council for the Jewish Federation in the Heart States in applauding his remarkable career not just a problem in Alabama. It is a problem of New Jersey and has previously served as and exemplary life. His legacy will continue to in communities throughout our country. Addi- President of the Jewish Federation of Mon- guide and inspire generations to come. That is tionally, this issue is causing dire health con- mouth County, as Vice President of the He- why I am honored to fly an American flag over sequences. Several studies have identified brew Immigrant Aid Society and as Regional the Capitol in his name. parasites specifically in Lowndes County, Ala- Chair of Operation Renewal, among others. f bama. In our great country, the presence of Combining his expertise as a developer with diseases found in third world nations is unac- his compassionate support of the Jewish com- PERSONAL EXPLANATION ceptable. Wastewater management and other munity, Mr. Portman has committed years to environmental concerns that exacerbate pov- the construction of The Jewish Home for Re- HON. EARL BLUMENAUER erty must be addressed. habilitation and Nursing. This new facility will OF OREGON Most recently, the United Nations weighed fulfill Mr. Portman’s mission to not only provide IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in on this issue. After visiting parts of the necessary medical care to patients, but to also Black Belt and other impoverished areas in maintain their connection to the Jewish faith Tuesday, July 24, 2018 America in December of 2017, United Nations and customs. Mr. Portman’s vision and re- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, had I Special Rapporteur Philip Alston was baffled spect for the comfort of these patients and been present for the vote yesterday on H.R. that such a developed and advanced country their families is truly admirable. 2345, the National Suicide Hotline Improve- like the United States could allow its most im- Once again, I sincerely hope my colleagues ment Act (Roll no. 366), I would have voted poverished to live in such awful conditions. will join me in honoring David Portman for his ‘‘aye.’’ The UN report has confirmed what I have dedicated leadership and support of the Jew- Additionally, had I been present for the vote known for a long time: that inadequate waste- ish community. on H.R. 4881, the Precision Agriculture

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.018 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1057 Connectivity Act (Roll no. 367), I would have who is a proud graduate of Port Isabel High gutting the theatre with Ben and several other voted ‘‘aye.’’ School and Texas College of Arts and Indus- Bryan residents assisting with the demolition f tries at Kingsville. In 1942, Mr. Chilton enlisted and clean-up. in the Army Air Corps, earning his wings when By 2011, the theatre’s Art Deco facade was HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY he was commissioned as a second lieutenant restored with Ben often seen doing much of OF FRANCISCO (FRANK) in 1944. Texas and the United States are for- the physical labor. Between 2013 and the ‘‘PANCHO’’ RIOS ever grateful for his service and leadership Queen’s re-opening on May 4, 2018, Ben and throughout his 13 missions in France and the Association made plans to restore the the- HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD other parts of the world. atre’s interior and began fund raising efforts OF CALIFORNIA After serving in the military, Mr. Chilton ma- for this purpose. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES jored in accounting at the the University of Ben spearheaded much of the effort, obtain- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Texas at Austin. His classroom and leadership ing labor and material donations, and even de- Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise experience led him to become a teacher at signing the handrails inside the building. Since its re-opening, the Queen now serves today to honor the life and legacy of Francisco Brownsville Junior College, where he taught as a single-screen movie theatre, performance (Frank) ‘‘Pancho’’ Rios, an Angeleno, a vet- introductory business. A man of family, service, and faith, Mr. venue, and, it also houses the Downtown eran, an immigrant, and a man who lived a Chilton is a member of the First United Meth- Bryan Association and visitor’s center. rich life full of love and service. With his pass- odist Church and an active community resi- Thanks to Ben Hardeman’s vision, the work ing on the evening of July 17, 2018, his loss dent. A former contributor to our district local of the Downtown Bryan Association and many is being mourned by family, friends, and oth- news outlet The Brownsville Herald and past volunteers who donated time, money, and re- ers who knew him. Francisco Rios was born in 1930 in the president of the Brownsville Tennis Club, Mr. sources, the Queen Theatre is once again a small town of Santa Barbara, Chihuahua, Chilton exemplifies the best of South Texas. place for the community to gather and enjoy. Mexico, and he resided in Mexico until 1952 He has been a loyal member of the Rotary Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate when he left to attain his piece of the Amer- Club for 53 years, served as president and Ben Hardeman on receiving the Outstanding ican Dream. He married his wife Paula Vega chairman of the Brownsville Public Utilities Individual Contribution award and recognize all in 1954, and together they settled in Fresno, Board, and was president of the Valley Zoo- the work done to restore the historic Queen California, before ultimately making their home logical Society. Theatre in Bryan, Texas. I have requested that a United States. flag in Los Angeles. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank you for the op- Francisco decided to serve his adopted portunity to honor and celebrate Carl Chilton’s be flown over the United States Capitol to home, enlisting in the U.S. Army, where he 95th birthday. I ask my colleagues to join me honor Be Hardeman and the Queen Theatre. served on active duty from 1955 to 1957, and and Mr. Chilton’s family and friends in wishing As I close today, I urge all Americans to received an honorable discharge on June 30, him well on this special occasion. Mr. Chilton’s continue praying for our country during these 1963. For three decades, he also dedicated devotion to his family and community make difficult times, for our military men and women himself to serving Los Angeles County resi- him a great role model for the people of who protect us from external threats, and for dents, working to maintain roadways for the Brownsville Texas, and I am very proud to be our first responders who protect us here at Department of Public Works. his Representative. home. Known affectionately as ‘‘Nino’’ and Uncle f f Frank, Francisco became an avid traveler, HONORING BEN HARDEMAN OF HONORING THE 70TH venturing to Africa, the Middle East, Western BRYAN TEXAS ANNIVERSARY OF LIFETRACK Europe, and his favorite destination, Las Vegas. He fondly recounted many of his trav- els, including his spiritual pilgrimage to the HON. BILL FLORES HON. BETTY McCOLLUM Holy Land, and to Vatican City. An Angeleno OF TEXAS OF MINNESOTA through and through, he was everyone’s favor- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ite tour guide of Los Angeles and its sur- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Tuesday, July 24, 2018 rounding areas, regularly exposing out-of-town Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today family visitors to the diversity of the region’s honor Ben Hardeman, a resident of Bryan, to congratulate Lifetrack on 70 years of pro- sights and attractions. Texas, and the 2018 recipient of the Out- viding high quality supportive services to some While Francisco and his wife Paula did not standing Individual Contribution award from of the most vulnerable residents of Saint Paul, have children together, they were an affec- the League of Historic American Theatres, a Minnesota and surrounding communities. tionate presence in the lives of their nieces national organization. Throughout decades of adaptations, Lifetrack and nephews, to whom they showed love, wis- In 2010, Ben was chairman of the Down- remains constant in serving those in need, dom, kindness, and unwavering and uncondi- town Bryan Association and heard that the and empowering families to thrive through tional support. The latest of these was Kaila abandoned Queen Theatre was put up for challenges. Vega, daughter of Amador Vega. sale. The structure was built in 1885, and first In 1948, injured veterans returning from Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me served as a hotel and boarding house. By WWII and families ravaged by the polio epi- in sending heartfelt condolences to the family 1913, silent films were being shown and by demic faced major obstacles. Lifetrack was of Francisco Rios. He leaves behind a rich 1939 the building was completely redone and born as a collaboration of social services legacy of love, patience, warmth, affection, included ‘‘chilled air’’, something of a novelty agencies that embarked on a mission to pro- strength, and wisdom that will be deeply in that era. The Queen continued to thrive until vide speech, physical, and occupational thera- missed by his loved ones. He is preceded in the late 1970s when the building was shut- pies to these adults and children. Later, the death by his parents Francisco and Soledad tered. By the time the Association purchased organization launched vocational programs and his wife Paula, and he is survived by sib- the building, it had been abandoned for 40 that aimed to prepare people for life and work lings, many nieces and nephews, and years. The theatre had a hole in the roof, pi- after their rehabilitation. Services have contin- godchildren, who will deeply miss and cherish geons in the rafters, and rotting wood. ued to expand to assist families and individ- the memory of their ‘‘Nino’’ and Uncle Frank. Ben brought the idea of the purchasing and uals experiencing homelessness and new ref- f restoring the Queen to the Downtown Bryan ugees. Lifetrack also now provides services to HONORING CARL CHILTON’S 95TH Association’s Board of Trustees. They ap- families of highly stressed and deaf and hard- BIRTHDAY proved the purchase and began raising money of-hearing children to help them build social, for a down payment. Just shy of reaching the emotional and life skills that can carry them HON. FILEMON VELA required amount, Ben paid the rest of the through their lives. OF TEXAS money personally. When individuals and families face adver- Ben spearheaded the restoration of the sity, a network of support is critical to resil- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES building, aiming to make it a truly community iency. For the most vulnerable in our commu- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 effort. The Association began collecting dona- nity, that support is not always available. Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to cele- tions and within a few weeks, they raised Lifetrack strengthens our community by em- brate the 95th birthday of Mr. Carl Chilton, $30,000 in pledges. Work quickly began on powering families and forging connections.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.021 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E1058 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks July 24, 2018 Staff and volunteers make it their mission to Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in thank- ward to the Lady Lions’ next championship help individuals build their own support sys- ing Mr. Reveley for his great leadership and season. tems and by connecting them to services both honoring his accomplishments he achieved as f within and outside the organization. All of us the 27th President of the College of William benefit when individuals and families have the and Mary. CONGRATULATING COUNCILMEM- BER NANCY WELTON OF HURST, tools to reach their full potential. f For 70 years Lifetrack has worked to help TEXAS ON HER RETIREMENT the most vulnerable achieve better lives by PERSONAL EXPLANATION building resilience, breaking cycles of trauma HON. KENNY MARCHANT and hardship, and providing therapies that HON. STEVE RUSSELL OF TEXAS make working and living a comfortable life OF OKLAHOMA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES more attainable. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratu- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 lating the staff, volunteers, board of Lifetrack Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on seven decades of remarkable service to Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, due to un- to recognize an outstanding public servant the community. avoidable travel delays, I was not able to be from my district, Councilmember Nancy f present for the first vote in the vote series yes- Welton of Hurst, Texas, who is retiring after 14 years of service on the Hurst City Council. IN RECOGNITION OF MR. W. terday evening. Had I been present, I would While Nancy has served as a TAYLOR REVELEY, III have voted YEA on roll Call No. 365. f councilmember for the last 14 years, her com- mitment to her community began well before HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN PERSONAL EXPLANATION then. As a resident of Hurst for over 33 years, OF VIRGINIA Nancy has shown a profound commitment to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. GARRET GRAVES the children of Hurst and to their education. Tuesday, July 24, 2018 OF LOUISIANA She has served as PTA President for both Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Shady Oaks Elementary and L.D. Bell High School, in addition to serving on the Hurst-Eu- recognition of Mr. W. Taylor Reveley, III’s Tuesday, July 24, 2018 service as the 27th President of the College of less-Bedford ISD School Board for 12 years. William and Mary and former Dean of the Wil- Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, my Nancy’s service as a councilmember has liam and Mary Law School. Mr. Reveley will flight was delayed due to weather. Had I been helped the city of Hurst experience redevelop- be retiring from his post as President of the present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call ment, revitalization, and economic prosperity College after serving in that capacity since No. 366, and YEA on Roll Call No. 367. through a number of initiatives and develop- 2008. f ment projects, such as the Hurst Town Center, Before his time at the College of William Hurst Conference Center, and Hurst Senior and Mary, Mr. Reveley graduated from Prince- HONORING THE UIL 3A STATE Center. The city has also expanded parks and ton University in 1968 and later received his CHAMPIONS SANTA GERTRUDIS recreation programs and championed cus- J.D. from the University of Virginia in 1968. ACADEMY SOFTBALL TEAM tomer service and staff development initiatives Mr. Reveley went on to have an impressive with the help of Nancy’s leadership. career as a lawyer, clerking for Justice William HON. FILEMON VELA At the heart of these projects is a commit- J. Brennan, Jr. of the U.S. Supreme Court, OF TEXAS ment to public safety and high quality of life and serving as a managing partner at the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for the nearly 40,000 residents of Hurst. In Hunton and Williams Law Firm. After a suc- Tuesday, July 24, 2018 recognition of the City Council’s efforts, the cessful legal career, Mr. Reveley joined the Texas City Manager’s Association recognized College of William and Mary in 1998, serving Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to the Hurst City Council as ‘‘Council of the as Dean of the Law School for 10 years be- honor the Santa Gertrudis Academy softball Year’’ in both 2013 and 2014. For more than fore being named President in 2008. team for winning the UIL 3A State Softball three decades, Nancy Welton has dem- Since joining as President in 2008, the Col- Championship this year. After making appear- onstrated an outstanding dedication to public lege of William and Mary has had tremendous ances at the state tournament in 2016 and service and community involvement. success under President Reveley. During his 2017, the Lady Lions of Santa Gertrudis Acad- Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congres- tenure, the campus has experienced large- emy left with a championship title. sional District of Texas, I ask all of my distin- scale expansions and renovations to its build- At the state championship match, the team guished colleagues to join me in honoring ings and facilities. President Reveley was also claimed the title with an impressive 8–3 win. Councilmember Nancy Welton for her extraor- responsible for updating and revising the un- This title-clinching victory cemented an out- dinary service and wishing her and her family dergraduate curriculum for the first time in standing 38–1 overall record for the Lady the best in her retirement. over 20 years with the innovative College Lions of Santa Gertrudis Academy. Saidi f (COLL) Curriculum. Some of his focuses as Castillo pitched a perfect game in the semi- President revolved around diversity and inclu- final against Brock High School and then held HONORING VERMONT’S WAYSIDE sion efforts, sexual assault and violence re- Hughes Springs High School to three runs on RESTAURANT ON ITS 100TH AN- sponse and prevention, and mental health and seven hits in the final championship game. NIVERSARY wellness programs across campus. Alumni en- Saidi Castillo’s stellar performance on the field gagements and philanthropic efforts reached led her to be named ‘‘Most Valuable Player’’ HON. PETER WELCH all-time highs thanks to President Reveley, of the season. OF VERMONT who adopted a new and innovative financial Members of the state championship team IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES model to increase funding to the College. were Sara Benavides, Alana Benitez, Breana President Reveley is heavily involved in nu- Carr, Saidi Castillo, Ariana De La Paz, Carissa Tuesday, July 24, 2018 merous educational, cultural, and religious or- De Los Santos, Jackie De Los Santos, Jackie Mr. WELCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ganizations, and has served on various boards Garza, Alyssa Gonzalez, Elleanna Longoria, pay tribute to the Wayside Restaurant in Ber- throughout the community. Though President Arianna Lopez, Yadira Lopez, Sarah Obregon, lin, Vermont. This year marks the Wayside’s Reveley is retiring, I am confident he and his Alyssa Robles, Ali Salinas, and Kennedy 100th anniversary of serving up exceptional wife, Helen, will have plenty to do with all of Silva. Thomas De Los Santos coached the and affordable home-style food to customers their philanthropic work and three grand- winning team, along with assistant coaches from central Vermont and beyond. children whom they will be spending more Matt Gonzalez, Amy Perez and Bianca Rocha. A century ago, founder Effie Ballou first time with. I know I speak for not only folks in On behalf of the 34th Congressional District started serving soups, snacks and meals out academia, but Virginia as a whole, when I say of Texas, I extend my congratulations to the of a shack straddling the border between Ber- that President Reveley and his contributions Santa Gertrudis Academy softball team and lin and Montpelier. She prepared the food at will be sorely missed. He will certainly leave their coaches for winning the UIL 3A State her small house just up the hill. an indelible mark on the College of William Softball Championship. We are very proud of Today, the Wayside—with a lot more seats and Mary that will last a lifetime. their accomplishments this year and look for- than in 1918—is still serving up some of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.025 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1059 best home-cooked food around. Its website IN RECOGNITION OF THE GLOBE 15–7. These promising players were joined by proudly and accurately proclaims, ‘‘Yankee AND LAUREL’S 50TH ANNIVER- their teammates Gabby Atchley, Macy Berg, Cooking at its Best Since 1918.’’ On the occa- SARY Kylexus Block, Madison Brabham, Kyra Hen- sion of this important milestone, the restaurant derson, Haley Hutchinson, Sarah Miller, Kadi joins an eclectic group of some 240 American HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN Shipman, Madeline Sims, Maelee Sowa, restaurants that have achieved centennial sta- OF VIRGINIA Shelby Tate, Whitney Walker and Loren tus. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Washington. During championship play at Hickory Point Mr. Speaker, I’m warning you. Take just a Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Beach Sand Volleyball Complex in Tavares, glance at the Wayside’s diverse menu and Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Florida, the Javelinas received a bye in the your mouth will water: old-fashioned country recognition of The Globe and Laurel, a military quarterfinal round. They then triumphed over breakfast, chicken pie, country fried steak, and law enforcement themed restaurant lo- the Spring Hill College Badgers in the semi- meatloaf, casseroles, fresh muffins and home- cated in Stafford, VA. Please join me in recog- final game by a score of 3–2. The final match made pies. nizing this restaurant and its owner, Major played against the Ekerd College Tritons saw But the Wayside is so much more than a Richard Spooner, USMC, Retired as they cel- the Javelinas prevail with a 4–1 win, securing good restaurant. For the thousands of ebrate their 50 year anniversary. the National Championship for the university. Vermonters and visitors who walk through its Major Richard Spooner opened The Globe Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing doors every year, it provides comfort, fellow- and Laurel restaurant in 1968 after serving for the Javelinas for their National Championship ship and a sense of community rivaled by few. over 29 years in the U.S. Marine Corps. At a which has brought pride and recognition to While dining on good food, customers catch young age, Richard Spooner fought in various Texas A&M-Kingsville. up with friends and neighbors, trade gossip, battles throughout the Pacific and was award- f and debate current events. ed four Purple Hearts for his brave sacrifice. He remained in the Marine Corps and fought HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVER- Owners Brian and Karen Zecchinelli have in both the Korean and Vietnam War. After re- SARY OF THE AMERICAN LEGION been at the helm for over 20 years. The res- tiring from service, Major Spooner turned his taurant has been in Karen’s family for over 50 passion for good food into his full-time job by HON. BETTY McCOLLUM years. Their employees are familiar and friend- opening his restaurant in Quantico and due to OF MINNESOTA ly faces. Many have been on the job for ten a fire, relocated to Triangle in 1973 and then IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES years or more. And in a tribute to their good in 2008 to Stafford, Virginia. Tuesday, July 24, 2018 service, the aprons of retired employees hang Major Spooner opened his restaurant as a proudly in the rafters. way to honor the brave men and women who Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today The Wayside Restaurant has been part of live to serve and protect our great country. to congratulate the American Legion on its the fabric of Vermont for 100 years. It is a The Globe and Laurel intends to proudly 100th anniversary and to welcome the 2018 shining example of a small business com- honor the history and service of the Marine national convention back to Minnesota where mitted to good service, quality products, and Corps by serving delicious food and offering this venerable organization had its founding socially responsible operations. I urge all unmatched customer service. On display at convention November 10–12, 1919. It is a Members of the House of Representatives to the restaurant is an extensive collection of special privilege to recognize the host of this stop by the Wayside if you find yourself navi- military memorabilia, including a Medal of historic gathering, the American Legion De- partment of Minnesota. Minnesotans are hon- gating the hills of central Vermont. But be Honor and Victoria Cross. Additionally, the ored to welcome Legionnaires from across careful—you won’t want to leave. restaurant has been recognized and praised in numerous periodicals and television shows for America. We are grateful for the many con- tributions the American Legion makes on be- f its fine dining, atmosphere, and camaraderie. The Globe and Laurel restaurant is a staple of half of all men and women who have worn the CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF LOIS Stafford County; a community institution so uniform through its 2.3 million members in FITCH loved by many. 14,000 posts in communities across the Mr. Speaker, as The Globe and Laurel cele- United States. We also welcome National brates its 50 year anniversary, I ask you to Commander Denise Rohan, the first woman to HON. DAVID SCHWEIKERT join me in recognizing Major Spooner for his serve as National Commander of the Amer- service; and his restaurant for its fine food and ican Legion. OF ARIZONA dedication to honoring the men and women Only steps away from where this year’s con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES who live to serve our country. vention is being held in Minneapolis, the American Legion was founded 100 years ago. f Tuesday, July 24, 2018 The American Legion is a voice for those who HONORING TEXAS A&M UNIVER- served in the U.S. Armed Forces and to assist Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise SITY-KINGSVILLE NCAA WOM- veterans who were disabled through their today to celebrate the life of Lois Fitch who EN’S BEACH VOLLEYBALL CHAM- service. Since its founding, the American Le- passed away on July 23, 2018. Throughout all PIONSHIP gion has been a driving force expanding serv- of my life, I have known Lois as someone who ices provided by the Federal Government for dedicated herself to helping young people find HON. FILEMON VELA our nation’s veterans and their families, includ- ways to become more meaningfully engaged OF TEXAS ing creation of the forerunner to the modern- in their community. Through her work leading IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES day Department of Veterans Affairs. As the the Teenage Republicans, Lois helped so American Legion’s advocacy and vision con- many individuals find their place in the civics Tuesday, July 24, 2018 tinued, services for veterans improved. In of working to improve our town, state, country, Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- 1922, the American Legion Department of and America’s place in the world. Lois epito- ognize the Texas A&M-Kingsville Javelinas for Minnesota created the Minnesota American mized a leader. She was kind and gracious to their 2018 American Volleyball Coaches Asso- Legion Hospital Association to provide medical all. She was encouraging and supportive in ciation Division II National Championship win. care to veterans and their dependents at little helping others find their passions. She was The Texas A&M-Kingsville Women’s Beach or no cost. This groundbreaking effort helped the reason I decided to run for elective office. Volleyball team was started in 2016, and they to build the extensive hospital and clinic sys- And, she has inspired me and so many others played their inaugural season in 2017. Head tem of the VA Health Care Administration. to serve on all levels of government. This past coach Tanya Allen, along with assistant Since the founding of the American Legion, Sunday I had a chance to visit with Lois in the coaches Gary Payne and Stephanie Johns, women have been vital to the successful ad- hospital. As I shared with her then, I will share are invaluable to the success of this young vocacy efforts on behalf of veterans. One hun- here in the United States Congress—‘‘Lois, team thus far. dred years ago, a Legion women’s auxiliary you changed me for the better, and I will for- The Javelinas ended the 2018 season with group began to form robust child-welfare and ever be grateful for your courage and service.’’ a 20–10 record, never losing a game in hospital visitation programs. As a life member May the flag of the United States Capitol fly in Kingsville. Freshmen Tenley Housler and Erin of the American Legion Auxiliary Post No. 39, full tribute to her. Umbel held the best set record of the team at North Saint Paul, Minnesota, I know firsthand

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.031 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E1060 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks July 24, 2018 the many contributions that local auxiliary It is my belief that the ‘‘Equality of Treatment Today, the United States Armed Forces en- posts make to our veterans, our community, and Opportunity; Executive Order 9981’’ was compass four diverse and heterogeneous our state and our nation. an indelible demarcation in the ever-present branches of brave, selfless, and upstanding From drafting the original document that battle to eradicate racial discrimination within servicemen and women. Prior to this Execu- would later become the first GI Bill to the on- American society. Moreover, the Harry S. Tru- tive Order, African American members of the going ‘‘We Believe Campaign’’ highlighting the man Library and Museum will be hosting an military had different rules than other positive impacts that veterans make on their event on Thursday, July 26 to honor this servicemembers, which often delayed their communities, the American Legion continues groundbreaking step towards equality as well entry to combat. Although other its essential work to support our veterans and as Truman’s other efforts to expand rights for servicemembers could begin their combat their families for their service and sacrifices. African American citizens. As the U.S. Rep- training in the months following their initial Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring resentative of Missouri’s Fifth Congressional qualifications, most African Americans were Commander Rohan and the 2.3 million mem- District, it gives me great pride and joy to forced to wait four years to begin training. bers of the American Legion as they meet to praise both President Truman for his valiant Since the founding of our country, African convene their 100th national convention in the and just actions and the Truman Library for Americans and other individuals of color ac- place where it all started, Minneapolis, Min- hosting such a noteworthy event within my tively participated in the Armed Forces; how- nesota. district. ever, intentionally attempting to separate or f delay this participation was also a perpetual Born and raised in the state of Missouri, occurrence within the military. President Tru- IN RECOGNITION OF THE 70TH AN- President Truman was a man of remarkable man’s issuance of the Executive Order of NIVERSARY OF EXECUTIVE character and ambition. Although he was born 1948 was the directive that officially and com- ORDER 9981 TO DESEGREGATE less than twenty years after the abolishment of pletely abolished this practice. THE ARMED FORCES OF THE slavery, in a time immersed in significant racial Mr. Speaker, please join with me as we UNITED STATES ramifications, the former president advanced commemorate the 70th anniversary of Presi- civil rights in the United States. One prominent dent Harry S. Truman’s Executive Order 9981. HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER example of the trailblazing legacy President The courageous actions taken by President OF MISSOURI Truman left behind is the issuance of Execu- Truman to eliminate racial discrimination within tive Orders 9980 and 9981 to desegregate the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES America’s armed forces are a true display of Armed Forces and federal workforce. As an leadership and a legacy that will live on for Tuesday, July 24, 2018 individual who has actively sought to further generations to come. Furthermore, it is my Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in expand and build upon this legacy, it is truly hope that we will honor our only president recognition of the 70th anniversary of Presi- an honor to join the Truman Library in cele- from Missouri by continuing the effort to end dent Harry S. Truman’s commitment to deseg- brating the 70th anniversary of such an racial discrimination in American society once regate the Armed Forces of our great nation. impactful milestone. and for all.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:23 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24JY8.035 E24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS Tuesday, July 24, 2018 Daily Digest Senate Chamber Action Measures Considered: Department of the Interior, Environment, and Routine Proceedings, pages S5227–S5314 Related Agencies Appropriations Act—Agree- Measures Introduced: Six bills and four resolutions ment: Senate continued consideration of H.R. 6147, were introduced, as follows: S. 3256–3261, and S. making appropriations for the Department of the In- Res. 588–591. Page S5267 terior, environment, and related agencies for the fis- Measures Passed: cal year ending September 30, 2019, taking action on the following amendments proposed thereto: National Day of the American Cowboy: Senate Pages S5230–40, S5240–62 agreed to S. Res. 589, designating July 28, 2018, as Adopted: ‘‘National Day of the American Cowboy’’. Page S5312 By 98 yeas to 1 nay (Vote No. 164), Collins (for Pioneer Day: Senate agreed to S. Res. 590, recog- Heller/Brown) Amendment No. 3405 (to Amend- nizing the 171st anniversary of the arrival of pio- ment No. 3399), to increase the amount available for neers belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of a Community Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Latter-day Saints to the Great Salt Lake Valley in matching grants program for tax return preparation Utah, and the contributions of the Church and its assistance. Pages S5240–41 members to the United States and the world. By a unanimous vote of 99 yeas (Vote No. 165), Page S5312 Collins (for Durbin) Amendment No. 3422 (to National Purple Heart Recognition Day: Senate Amendment No. 3399), to require the Inspector agreed to S. Res. 591, supporting the goals and General to update an audit report concerning on- ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day. time performance of Amtrak. Pages S5240–41 Page S5312 By 97 yeas to 1 nay (Vote No. 166), Murkowski (for Schatz/Hirono) Amendment No. 3407 (to Drug Enforcement Administration 45th Anni- Amendment No. 3399), to provide for a report on versary: Committee on the Judiciary was discharged facilities of the Department of the Interior damaged from further consideration of S. Res. 578, honoring by certain volcanic eruptions. Pages S5255–58 the men and women of the Drug Enforcement Ad- By 87 yeas to 11 nays (Vote No. 167), Mur- ministration on the 45th anniversary of the agency, kowski (for Kennedy/Cassidy) Amendment No. 3430 and the resolution was then agreed to. Page S5312 (to Amendment No. 3399), to provide amounts for National Trademark Exposition of the United inspection of foreign seafood manufacturers and field States Patent and Trademark Office: Committee examinations of imported seafood. Pages S5255–58 on the Judiciary was discharged from further consid- Pending: eration of S. Res. 580, recognizing and supporting Shelby Amendment No. 3399, in the nature of a public awareness of the importance of trademarks substitute. Pages S5230–40, S5240–62 and the goals and ideals of the National Trademark Murkowski Amendment No. 3400 (to Amend- Exposition of the United States Patent and Trade- ment No. 3399), of a perfecting nature. Page S5230 mark Office, and the resolution was then agreed to. A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- Page S5312 viding that it be in order to call up the following State Offices of Rural Health Reauthorization amendments to Shelby Amendment No. 3399 (listed Act: Senate passed S. 2278, to amend the Public above): Moran Amendment No. 3433, and Udall Health Service Act to provide grants to improve Amendment No. 3414; and that at 2:30 p.m., on health care in rural areas, after agreeing to the com- Wednesday, July 25, 2018, Senate vote on or in re- mittee amendment. Pages S5312–14 lation to Moran Amendment No. 3433, and Udall Amendment No. 3414, in the order listed, and that D857

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:35 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24JY8.REC D24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST D858 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST July 24, 2018 there be no second-degree amendments in order to the amendments prior to the votes. Page S5314 Committee Meetings A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- (Committees not listed did not meet) viding for further consideration of the bill at ap- proximately 10 a.m., on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. NOMINATIONS Page S5314 Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Com- Nominations Confirmed: Senate confirmed the fol- mittee concluded a hearing to examine the nomina- lowing nominations: tions of Dan Michael Berkovitz, of Maryland, to be Bruce Landsberg, of South Carolina, to be a Mem- a Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading ber of the National Transportation Safety Board for Commission, and James E. Hubbard, of Colorado, to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Natural Re- a term expiring December 31, 2022. sources and Environment, who was introduced by Jennifer L. Homendy, of Virginia, to be a Member Senator Bennet, after the nominees testified and an- of the National Transportation Safety Board for a swered questions in their own behalf. term expiring December 31, 2019. Pages S5262, S5314 BUSINESS MEETING Nominations Received: Senate received the fol- Committee on Armed Services: Committee ordered favor- lowing nominations: ably reported 4,120 nominations in the Army, Navy, J. Nicholas Ranjan, of Pennsylvania, to be United Air Force, and Marine Corps. States District Judge for the Western District of NOMINATIONS Pennsylvania. Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Tamara Bonzanto, of New Jersey, to be an Assist- Committee concluded a hearing to examine the ant Secretary of Veterans Affairs (Office of Account- nominations of Elad L. Roisman, of Maine, to be a ability and Whistleblower Protection). Page S5314 Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Nomination Withdrawn: Senate received notifica- Michael R. Bright, of the District of Columbia, to tion of withdrawal of the following nomination: be President, Government National Mortgage Asso- Ryan Wesley Bounds, of Oregon, to be United ciation, and Rae Oliver, of Virginia, to be Inspector States Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit, which General, both of the Department of Housing and was sent to the Senate on January 8, 2018. Urban Development, and Dino Falaschetti, of Mon- tana, to be Director, Office of Financial Research, Page S5314 Department of the Treasury, after the nominees tes- Messages from the House: Pages S5264–65 tified and answered questions in their own behalf. Measures Referred: Page S5265 NOAA’S BLUE ECONOMY INITIATIVE Measures Placed on the Calendar: Page S5265 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Sub- Executive Communications: Pages S5265–66 committee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard concluded a hearing to examine the Executive Reports of Committees: Pages S5266–67 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Additional Cosponsors: Pages S5267–69 blue economy initiative, focusing on supporting Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: commerce in American oceans and Great Lakes, after Pages S5269–70 receiving testimony from Rear Admiral Timothy Gallaudet, USN (Ret.), Assistant Secretary for Additional Statements: Pages S5263–64 Oceans and Atmosphere and Acting Under Secretary Amendments Submitted: Pages S5270–S5311 for Oceans and Atmosphere, National Oceanic and Authorities for Committees to Meet: Atmospheric Administration, Department of Com- merce. Pages S5311–12 EMPOWERING U.S. AMATEUR ATHLETES Privileges of the Floor: Page S5312 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Sub- Record Votes: Four record votes were taken today. committee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, (Total—167) Pages S5241, S5258 Insurance, and Data Security concluded a hearing to Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. and ad- examine strengthening and empowering United journed at 8:20 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, States amateur athletes, focusing on moving forward July 25, 2018. (For Senate’s program, see the re- with solutions, after receiving testimony from John marks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s Engler, Michigan State University, East Lansing; Su- Record on page S5314.) sanne Lyons, United States Olympic Committee,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:35 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24JY8.REC D24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D859 Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kerry Perry, USA Gym- School of International and Public Affiars, New nastics, Indianapolis, Indiana; and Han Xiao, Athlete York, New York; E. Russell Braziel, RBN Energy, Advisory Council, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania. LLC, Houston, Texas; Robert McNally, Rapidan En- ergy Group, Bethesda, Maryland; and Keisuke BUSINESS MEETING Sadamori, International Energy Agency, Paris, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee France. ordered favorably reported the nominations of Teri L. Donaldson, of Texas, to be Inspector General, Karen THE CHINA CHALLENGE S. Evans, of West Virginia, to be an Assistant Sec- Committee on Foreign Relations: Subcommittee on East retary (Cybersecurity, Energy Security and Emer- Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity gency Response), Christopher Fall, of Virginia, to be Policy concluded a hearing to examine the China Director of the Office of Science, and Daniel Sim- challenge, focusing on economic coercion as mons, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary (En- statecraft, after receiving testimony from Dan ergy Efficiency and Renewable Energy), all of the Blumenthal, American Enterprise Institute, and Ely Department of Energy. Ratner, Center for a New American Security, both of Washington, D.C. GLOBAL OIL PRICES Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee INTELLIGENCE concluded a hearing to examine factors that are im- Select Committee on Intelligence: Committee held closed pacting global oil prices, after receiving testimony hearings on intelligence matters, receiving testimony from John R. Auers, Turner, Mason and Company, from officials of the intelligence community. Dallas, Texas; Jason E. Bordoff, Columbia University Committee recessed subject to the call. h House of Representatives ical observation program for pre-med students pre- Chamber Action paring to attend medical school, with an amendment Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 22 pub- (H. Rept. 115–867); lic bills, H.R. 6479–6500; and 9 resolutions, H. H.R. 5693, to amend title 38, United States Res. 1017–1025 were introduced. Pages H7154–55 Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs Additional Cosponsors: Pages H7156–57 to enter into contracts and agreements for the place- Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: ment of veterans in non-Department medical foster H.R. 5649, to amend titles 10 and 38, United homes for certain veterans who are unable to live States Code, to amend the Social Security Act, and independently, with amendments (H. Rept. to direct the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, Defense, 115–868); Labor, and Homeland Security, and the Adminis- H.R. 5974, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Af- trator of the Small Business Administration, to take fairs to use on-site regulated medical waste treat- certain actions to improve transition assistance to ment systems at certain Department of Veterans Af- members of the Armed Forces who separate, retire, fairs facilities, and for other purposes, with an or are discharged from the Armed Forces, and for amendment (H. Rept. 115–869); other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. H.R. 5538, to amend title 38, United States 115–864, Part 1); Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain addi- H.R. 5882, to amend the Servicemembers Civil tional periods of active duty service for purposes of Relief Act to provide for the termination by a spouse suspending charges to veterans’ entitlement to edu- of a lessee of certain leases when the lessee dies while cational assistance under the laws administered by in military service (H. Rept. 115–865); the Secretary of Veterans Affairs during periods of H.R. 2409, to allow servicemembers to terminate suspended participation in vocational rehabilitation their cable, satellite television, and Internet access programs (H. Rept. 115–870); service contracts while deployed (H. Rept. H.R. 5938, to amend the VA Choice and Quality 115–866); Employment Act to direct the Secretary of Veterans H.R. 2787, to establish in the Department of Affairs to establish a vacancy and recruitment data- Veterans Affairs a pilot program instituting a clin- base to facilitate the recruitment of certain members

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:35 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24JY8.REC D24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST D860 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST July 24, 2018 of the Armed Forces to satisfy the occupational needs Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish and pass the following measures: and implement a training and certification program Equitable Access to Care and Health Act: H.R. for intermediate care technicians in that Department, 1201, amended, to amend section 5000A of the In- and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. ternal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide an addi- Rept. 115–871); tional religious exemption from the individual health H.R. 5864, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Af- coverage mandate; Pages H7107–09 fairs to establish qualifications for the human re- sources positions within the Veterans Health Admin- Native American Health Savings Improvement istration of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Act: H.R. 1476, amended, to amend the Internal for other purposes (H. Rept. 115–872); and Revenue Code of 1986 to permit individuals eligible H. Res. 1020, waiving a requirement of clause for Indian Health Service assistance to qualify for 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of cer- health savings accounts; Pages H7109–10 tain resolutions reported from the Committee on Water and Agriculture Tax Reform Act: H.R. Rules, and providing for consideration of motions to 519, amended, to amend the Internal Revenue Code suspend the rules (H. Rept. 115–873). of 1986 to facilitate water leasing and water transfers Pages H7153–54 to promote conservation and efficiency; Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he Pages H7110–12 appointed Representative Palazzo to act as Speaker Ensuring Integrity in the IRS Workforce Act of pro tempore for today. Page H7089 2018: H.R. 3500, amended, to amend the Internal Recess: The House recessed at 10:35 a.m. and re- Revenue Code of 1986 to prohibit the Commissioner convened at 12 noon. Page H7093 of the Internal Revenue Service from rehiring any employee of the Internal Revenue Service who was Guest Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the involuntarily separated from service for misconduct; Guest Chaplain, Imam Seyed Ali Ghazvini, Islamic Pages H7112–13 Cultural Center of Fresno, Fresno, California. Page H7093 Improving Social Security’s Service to Victims of Identity Theft Act: H.R. 6084, amended, to amend Restoring Access to Medication Act of 2018— title VII of the Social Security Act to provide for a Rule for Consideration: The House agreed to H. single point of contact at the Social Security Admin- Res. 1012, providing for consideration of the bill istration for individuals who are victims of identity (H.R. 6199) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of theft; Pages H7113–15 1986 to include certain over-the-counter medical products as qualified medical expenses, and pro- Improving Seniors Access to Quality Benefits viding for proceedings during the period from July Act: H.R. 4952, amended, to direct the Secretary of 27, 2018, through September 3, 2018, by a recorded Health and Human Services to conduct a study and vote of 229 ayes to 179 noes, Roll No. 369, after submit a report on the effects of the inclusion of the previous question was ordered by a yea-and-nay quality increases in the determination of blended vote of 224 yeas to 184 nays, Roll No. 368. benchmark amounts under part C of the Medicare Pages H7100–06 program; Pages H7115–16 Recess: The House recessed at 4:39 p.m. and recon- Ambulatory Surgical Center Payment Trans- vened at 4:50 p.m. Page H7124 parency Act of 2018: H.R. 6138, amended, to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to pro- Protect Medical Innovation Act: The House vide for ambulatory surgical center representation passed H.R. 184, to amend the Internal Revenue during the review of hospital outpatient payment Code of 1986 to repeal the excise tax on medical de- rates under part B of the Medicare program; vices, by a yea-and-nay vote of 283 yeas to 132 nays, Pages H7116–18 Roll No. 372. Pages H7119–24,7124–25 Pursuant to the Rule, the amendment printed in Tribal Social Security Fairness Act of 2018: H. Rept. 115–860 shall be considered as adopted. H.R. 6124, amended, to amend title II of the Social Page H7119 Security Act to authorize voluntary agreements for H. Res. 1011, the rule providing for consideration coverage of Indian tribal council members; of the bills (H.R. 184) and (H.R. 6311) was agreed Pages H7118–19 to by a recorded vote of 225 ayes to 184 noes, Roll Allowing servicemembers to terminate their No. 371, after the previous question was ordered by cable, satellite television, and Internet access serv- a yea-and-nay vote of 223 yeas to 188 nays, Roll ice contracts while deployed: H.R. 2409, amended, No. 370. Pages H7095–H7100, H7106–07 to allow servicemembers to terminate their cable,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:35 Jul 25, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24JY8.REC D24JYPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST July 24, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D861 satellite television, and Internet access service con- medical waste treatment systems at certain Depart- tracts while deployed; Pages H7130–31 ment of Veterans Affairs facilities. Pages H7144–45 Veterans-Specific Education for Tomorrow’s Suspensions—Proceedings Postponed: The House Medical Doctors Act: H.R. 2787, amended, to estab- debated the following measures under suspension of lish in the Department of Veterans Affairs a pilot the rules. Further proceedings were postponed. program instituting a clinical observation program The American Legion 100th Anniversary Com- for pre-med students preparing to attend medical memorative Coin Act: S. 1182, amended, to require school; Pages H7132–33 the Secretary of the Treasury to mint commemora- Amending title 38, United States Code, to pro- tive coins in recognition of the 100th anniversary of vide for the inclusion of certain additional periods The American Legion; and Pages H7125–30 of active duty service for purposes of suspending VA Hospitals Establishing Leadership Perform- charges to veterans’ entitlement to educational as- ance Act: H.R. 5864, amended, to direct the Sec- sistance under the laws administered by the Sec- retary of Veterans Affairs to establish qualifications retary of Veterans Affairs during periods of sus- for the human resources positions within the Vet- pended participation in vocational rehabilitation erans Health Administration of the Department of programs: H.R. 5538, to amend title 38, United Veterans Affairs. Pages H7141–42 States Code, to provide for the inclusion of certain additional periods of active duty service for purposes Raising a question of the privileges of the House of suspending charges to veterans’ entitlement to pursuant to article I, section 7, of the United educational assistance under the laws administered States Constitution: Agreed by unanimous consent by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs during periods to H. Res. 1019, raising a question of the privileges of suspended participation in vocational rehabilita- of the House pursuant to article I, section 7, of the Page H7150 tion programs; Pages H7133–34 United States Constitution. Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer William ‘Bill’ Recess: The House recessed at 8:39 p.m. and recon- Mulder (Ret.) Transition Improvement Act of vened at 9:28 p.m. Page H7150 2018: H.R. 5649, amended, to amend titles 10 and Senate Referral: S. 2503 was held at the desk. 38, United States Code, to amend the Social Security Senate Message: Message received from the Senate Act, and to direct the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs, today appears on page H7107. Defense, Labor, and Homeland Security, and the Ad- ministrator of the Small Business Administration, to Quorum Calls—Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes take certain actions to improve transition assistance and two recorded votes developed during the pro- to members of the Armed Forces who separate, re- ceedings of today and appear on pages H7105, tire, or are discharged from the Armed Forces; H7105–06, H7106–07, H7107, and H7124–25. Pages H7134–40 There were no quorum calls. Gold Star Spouses Leasing Relief Act: H.R. Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- 5882, amended, to amend the Servicemembers Civil journed at 9:28 p.m. Relief Act to provide for the termination by a spouse of a lessee of certain leases when the lessee dies while Committee Meetings in military service; Pages H7140–41 LEGISLATIVE MEASURE Veterans Serving Veterans Act of 2018: H.R. Committee on Education and the Workforce: Sub- 5938, amended, to amend the VA Choice and Qual- committee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pen- ity Employment Act to direct the Secretary of Vet- sions held a hearing on H.R. 4219, the ‘‘Workflex erans Affairs to establish a vacancy and recruitment in the 21st Century Act’’. Testimony was heard from database to facilitate the recruitment of certain Gayle L. Goldin, Senator, General Assembly, Rhode members of the Armed Forces to satisfy the occupa- Island; and public witnesses. tional needs of the Department of Veterans Affairs, to establish and implement a training and certifi- EXAMINING ADVERTISING AND cation program for intermediate care technicians in MARKETING PRACTICES WITHIN THE that Department; and Pages H7142–44 SUBSTANCE USE TREATMENT INDUSTRY Department of Veterans Affairs Creation of On- Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Site Treatment Systems Affording Veterans Im- Oversight and Investigations held a hearing entitled provements and Numerous General Safety En- ‘‘Examining Advertising and Marketing Practices hancements Act: H.R. 5974, amended, to direct the within the Substance Use Treatment Industry’’. Tes- Secretary of Veterans Affairs to use on-site regulated timony was heard from public witnesses.

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DOE MODERNIZATION: LEGISLATION TO the Secretary of Homeland Security to transmit cer- AUTHORIZE A PILOT PROJECT TO tain documents to the House of Representatives re- COMMERCIALIZE THE STRATEGIC lating to the border security policies, procedures, and PETROLEUM RESERVE activities as such relate to the interdiction of families Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on by the U.S. Border Patrol between ports of entry. Energy held a hearing entitled ‘‘DOE Modernization: H.R. 5869, H.R. 6198, H.R. 6265, H.R. 6374, Legislation to Authorize a Pilot Project to Commer- H.R. 6400, H.R. 6443, and H.R. 6447 were or- cialize the Strategic Petroleum Reserve’’. Testimony dered reported, as amended. H.R. 6430, H.R. 6438, was heard from Steven Winberg, Assistant Secretary H.R. 6439, H.R. 6459, H.R. 6461, and H. Res. of Fossil Energy, Department of Energy; Frank 1005 were ordered reported, without amendment. Rusco, Director, Natural Resources and Environ- ment, Government Accountability Office; and public BOOTS AT THE BORDER: EXAMINING THE witnesses. NATIONAL GUARD DEPLOYMENT TO THE MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES SOUTHWEST BORDER Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on a markup on H.R. 1511, the ‘‘Homeless Children Border and Maritime Security held a hearing entitled and Youth Act of 2017’’; H.R. 2069, the ‘‘Fostering ‘‘Boots at the Border: Examining the National Guard Stable Housing Opportunities Act of 2017’’; H.R. Deployment to the Southwest Border’’. Testimony 2570, the ‘‘Mortgage Fairness Act of 2017’’; H.R. was heard from Rodolfo Karisch, Chief Patrol Agent, 3626, the ‘‘Bank Service Company Examination Co- Tucson Sector, U.S. Border Patrol, Department of ordination Act of 2017’’; H.R. 5036, the ‘‘Financial Homeland Security; Major General John F. Nichols, Technology Protection Act’’; H.R. 5059, the ‘‘State Adjutant General, Texas National Guard, U.S. Army Insurance Regulation Preservation Act’’; and H.R. National Guard; and Major General Michael T. 6332, the ‘‘Improving Strategies to Counter Weap- McGuire, Adjutant General, Arizona National ons Proliferation Act’’. H.R. 1511, H.R. 2069, H.R. Guard, U.S. Army National Guard. 5036, H.R. 3626, and H.R. 5059 were ordered re- ported, as amended. H.R. 6332 and H.R. 2570 were EXAMINING THE WAYFAIR DECISION ordered reported, without amendment. AND ITS RAMIFICATIONS FOR CONSUMERS EGYPT: SECURITY, HUMAN RIGHTS, AND AND SMALL BUSINESSES REFORM Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee held a Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Mid- hearing entitled ‘‘Examining the Wayfair decision dle East and North Africa held a hearing entitled and its Ramifications for Consumers and Small Busi- ‘‘Egypt: Security, Human Rights, and Reform’’. Tes- nesses’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. timony was heard from public witnesses. MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES ASSESSING INNOVATIVE AND Committee on Homeland Security: Full Committee held ALTERNATIVE USES OF COAL a markup on H.R. 5869, the ‘‘Maritime Border Se- Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on En- curity Review Act’’; H.R. 6198, the ‘‘Countering ergy and Mineral Resources held a hearing entitled Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 2018’’; H.R. ‘‘Assessing Innovative and Alternative Uses of Coal’’. 6265, the ‘‘PreCheck is PreCheck Act of 2018’’; Testimony was heard from public witnesses. H.R. 6374, the ‘‘FIT Act’’; H.R. 6400, the ‘‘United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review LEGISLATIVE MEASURES Act’’; H.R. 6430, the ‘‘Securing the Homeland Secu- rity Supply Chain Act of 2018’’; H.R. 6438, the Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on In- ‘‘DHS Countering Unmanned Aircraft Systems Coor- dian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs held a hear- dinator Act’’; H.R. 6439, the ‘‘Biometric Identifica- ing on H.R. 5244, the ‘‘Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe tion Transnational Migration Alert Program Author- Reservation Reaffirmation Act’’; S. 607, the ‘‘Native ization Act of 2018’’; H.R. 6443, the ‘‘Advancing American Business Incubators Program Act’’; and S. Cybersecurity Diagnostics and Mitigation Act’’; 1116, the ‘‘Indian Community Economic Enhance- H.R. 6459, the ‘‘TSA Opportunities to Pursue Ex- ment Act of 2018’’. Testimony was heard from panded Networks for Business Act’’; H.R. 6461, the Darryl LaCounte, Acting Deputy Bureau Director— ‘‘TSA National Deployment Force Act’’; H.R. 6447, Office of Trust Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, the ‘‘Department of Homeland Security Chief Data Department of the Interior; and public witnesses. Officer Authorization Act’’; H. Res. 1005, directing

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CYBER-SECURING THE VOTE: ENSURING (requiring a two-thirds vote to consider a rule on the THE INTEGRITY OF THE U.S. ELECTION same day it is reported from the Rules Committee) SYSTEM against any resolution reported through the legisla- Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Full tive day of July 27, 2018 relating to a measure au- Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Cyber-securing thorizing appropriations for the Department of De- the Vote: Ensuring the Integrity of the U.S. Election fense. In section 2, the rule provides that it shall be System’’. Testimony was heard from Christopher in order at any time on the legislative day of July Krebs, Under Secretary, National Protection and 26, 2018, or July 27, 2018, for the Speaker to enter- Programs Directorate, Department of Homeland Se- tain motions that the House suspend the rules relat- curity; Thomas Hicks, Commissioner, U.S. Election ing to a measure authorizing appropriations for the Assistance Commission; Maggie Toulouse Oliver, Department of Defense. Finally, in section 3, the Secretary of State, New Mexico; and Ricky Hatch, rule provides that the Committee on Appropriations County Auditor, Weber County, Utah. may, at any time before 3 p.m. on Thursday, August 2, 2018, file privileged reports to accompany meas- SHIELDING SOURCES: SAFEGUARDING THE ures making appropriations for the fiscal year ending PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO KNOW September 30, 2019. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- URBAN AIR MOBILITY—ARE FLYING CARS committee on Healthcare, Benefits and Administra- READY FOR TAKE-OFF? tive Rules; and Subcommittee on Intergovernmental Affairs held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘Shielding Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Full Com- Sources: Safeguarding the Public’s Right to Know’’. mittee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Urban Air Mobil- Testimony was heard from public witnesses. ity—Are Flying Cars Ready for Take-Off?’’. Testi- mony was heard from Jaiwon Shin, Associate Ad- PRESERVING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ministrator, Aeronautics Research Mission Direc- GRAZING ON FEDERAL LAND torate, National Aeronautics and Space Administra- Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- tion; and public witnesses. committee on the Interior, Energy, and Environment MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES held a hearing entitled ‘‘Preserving Opportunities for Grazing on Federal Land’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Full Com- from public witnesses. mittee held a markup on H.R. 6468, the ‘‘Improv- ing Science in Chemical Assessments Act’’; and S. CONFERENCE REPORT TO ACCOMPANY 141, the ‘‘Space Weather Research and Forecasting THE JOHN S. MCCAIN NATIONAL DEFENSE Act’’. S. 141 was ordered reported, as amended. AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR H.R. 6468 was ordered reported, without amend- 2019 ment. Committee on Rules: Full Committee began a hearing on the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 5515, INVESTING IN RURAL AMERICA the ‘‘John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Eco- Act for Fiscal Year 2019’’. Testimony was heard nomic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access; and Sub- from Chairman Thornberry and Representative committee on Agriculture, Energy, and Trade held Smith of Washington. a joint hearing entitled ‘‘Investing in Rural Amer- WAIVING A REQUIREMENT OF CLAUSE ica’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. 6(A) OF RULE XIII WITH RESPECT TO UPDATE ON COAST GUARD ACQUISITION CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN PROGRAMS AND MISSION BALANCE AND RESOLUTIONS REPORTED FROM THE EFFECTIVENESS COMMITTEE ON RULES, AND PROVIDING Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- FOR CONSIDERATION OF MOTIONS TO committee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transpor- SUSPEND THE RULES tation held a hearing entitled ‘‘Update on Coast Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on Guard Acquisition Programs and Mission Balance H. Res. 1020, waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) and Effectiveness’’. Testimony was heard from Vice of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain Admiral Daniel Abel, Deputy Commandant for Op- resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules, erations, U.S. Coast Guard; Vice Admiral Michael and providing for consideration of motions to sus- McAllister, Deputy Commandant for Mission Sup- pend the rules. The Committee granted, by voice port, U.S. Coast Guard; and Marie A. Mak, Director vote, a rule providing for the consideration of H. of Acquisition and Sourcing Management, Govern- Res. ——. The rule waives clause 6(a) of rule XIII ment Accountability Office.

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Lawrence, Under Sec- vention, and treatment, S. 3016, to amend the Public retary for Benefits, Veterans Benefits Administration, Health Service Act to improve essential oral health care Department of Veterans Affairs; and Elizabeth H. for low-income and other underserved individuals by Curda, Director, Education, Workforce, and Income breaking down barriers to care, and pending nominations, Security Team, Government Accountability Office. 10 a.m., SD–430. Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold hearings to exam- THE OPIOID CRISIS: IMPLEMENTATION OF ine the nominations of Joseph Maguire, of Florida, to be THE FAMILY FIRST PREVENTION SERVICES Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, Office ACT (FFPSA) of the Director of National Intelligence, and Ellen E. McCarthy, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on State (Intelligence and Research), 9:30 a.m., SH–216. Human Resources held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Opioid Crisis: Implementation of the Family First House Prevention Services Act (FFPSA)’’. Testimony was Committee on Agriculture, Full Committee, hearing enti- heard from Jerry Milner, Associate Commissioner, tled ‘‘Examining the Upcoming Agenda for the Com- Children’s Bureau, and Acting Commissioner, Ad- modity Futures Trading Commission’’, 10 a.m., 1300 ministration on Children, Youth and Families, De- Longworth. partment of Health and Human Services. Committee on Appropriations, Full Committee, markup on FY 2019 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill; and the PRODUCT EXCLUSION PROCESS FOR Revised Report on the Suballocation of Budget Alloca- SECTION 232 TARIFFS ON STEEL AND tions for FY 2019, 10 a.m., 2118 Rayburn. ALUMINUM Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on Health, hearing entitled ‘‘21st Century Cures Implemen- Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Product Exclusion tation: Updates from FDA and NIH’’, 9 a.m., 2123 Ray- burn. Process for Section 232 Tariffs on Steel and Alu- Subcommittee on Environment, hearing entitled minum’’. Testimony was heard from public wit- ‘‘Background on Renewable Identification Numbers nesses. under the Renewable Fuel Standard’’, 9:15 a.m., 2322 Rayburn. Joint Meetings Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, No joint committee meetings were held. hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Federal Communica- tions Commission’’, 1 p.m., 2123 Rayburn. f Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Asia and COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, the Pacific, hearing entitled ‘‘Budget Priorities for South JULY 25, 2018 Asia’’, 2 p.m., 2172 Rayburn. Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Cy- (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) bersecurity and Infrastructure Protection, hearing entitled ‘‘Assessing the State of Federal Cybersecurity Risk Deter- Senate mination’’, 10:30 a.m., HVC–210. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: to Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, hold hearings to examine the race to 5G, focusing on ex- and Communications, hearing entitled ‘‘Using Innovative ploring spectrum needs to maintain United States global Technology and Practices to Enhance the Culture of Pre- leadership, 10 a.m., SR–253. paredness’’, 2 p.m., HVC–210. Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness, Committee on House Administration, Full Committee, to hold hearings to examine destination Mars, focusing on markup on Committee Resolution 115–20, 11:15 a.m., putting American boots on the surface of the red planet, 1310 Longworth. 2:15 p.m., SR–253. Full Committee, hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Li- Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- brary of Congress’ Strategic Plan Part 2’’, 11:30 a.m., ine American diplomacy to advance our national security 1310 Longworth. strategy, 3 p.m., SD–419. Committee on the Judiciary, Full Committee, markup on Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: busi- H.R. 1872, the ‘‘Reciprocal Access to Tibet Act of ness meeting to consider S. 2554, to ensure that health 2017’’, 10 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. insurance issuers and group health plans do not prohibit Committee on Natural Resources, Full Committee, hearing pharmacy providers from providing certain information to entitled ‘‘Management Crisis at the Puerto Rico Electric

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Power Authority and Implications for Recovery’’, 2 p.m., Security’s Disability Appeals Process’’, 10 a.m., 2020 1324 Longworth. Rayburn. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Sub- committee on Information Technology; and Sub- Joint Meetings committee on Government Operations, joint hearing enti- Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe: tled ‘‘GAO High Risk Focus: Cybersecurity’’, 2 p.m., to re- 2154 Rayburn. ceive a briefing on attacks on Roma in Ukraine, 10 a.m., Subcommittee on Intergovernmental Affairs, hearing SVC–214. entitled ‘‘Federal Grant Management’’, 2 p.m., 2247 Ray- Joint Economic Committee: to hold hearings to examine burn. the innovation economy, entrepreneurship, and barriers to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Full Com- capital access, 10 a.m., 1100, Longworth Building. mittee, begin hearing entitled ‘‘James Webb Space Tele- Joint Select Committee on Solvency of Multiemployer Pension scope: Program Breach and its Implications’’, 10 a.m., Plans: to hold hearings to examine how the multiem- 2318 Rayburn. ployer pension system affects stakeholders, 10 a.m., Committee on Small Business, Full Committee, hearing SD–215. entitled ‘‘The Tax Law’s Impact on Main Street’’, 11 Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe: to hold a.m., 2360 Rayburn. hearings to examine the state of play, focusing on Committee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee on Social globalized corruption, state-run doping, and international Security, hearing entitled ‘‘Examining Changes to Social sport, 2 p.m., SD–562.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 25 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 25

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Wednesday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Wednesday: Complete consideration of ation of H.R. 6147, Department of the Interior, Environ- H.R. 6199—Restoring Access to Medication and Mod- ment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, with ernizing Health Savings Accounts Act of 2018 and H.R. votes on or in relation to Moran Amendment No. 3433, 6311—Increasing Access to Lower Premium Plans and and Udall Amendment No. 3414, at 2:30 p.m. Expanding Health Savings Accounts Act of 2018. Con- sideration of measures under suspension of the Rules.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Jayapal, Pramila, Wash., E1051 Roybal-Allard, Lucille, Calif., E1057 Kaptur, Marcy, Ohio, E1056 Russell, Steve, Okla., E1058 Beutler, Jaime Herrera, Wash., E1051, E1052 Marchant, Kenny, Tex., E1058 Ryan, Paul D., Wisc., E1051 Bishop, Sanford D., Jr., Ga, E1051, E1054 McCollum, Betty, Minn., E1057, E1059 Schneider, Bradley Scott, Ill., E1052 Blumenauer, Earl, Ore., E1056 McHenry, Patrick T., N.C., E1055 Schweikert, David, Ariz., E1059 Buck, Ken, Colo., E1052, E1053, E1054, E1054 Moolenaar, John R., Mich., E1053 Sewell, Terri A., Ala., E1052, E1055, E1056 Clarke, Yvette D., N.Y., E1051 Moore, Gwen, Wisc., E1053 Turner, Michael R., Ohio, E1055 Cleaver, Emanuel, Mo., E1060 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Vela, Filemon, Tex., E1053, E1055, E1057, E1058, E1059 Flores, Bill, Tex., E1057 E1053, E1055 Waters, Maxine, Calif., E1052 Gonzalez, Vicente, Tex., E1054 Pallone, Frank, Jr., N.J., E1056 Welch, Peter, Vt., E1058 Gutie´rrez, Luis V., Ill., E1052 Pocan, Mark, Wisc., E1055 Wittman, Robert J., Va., E1058, E1059 Graves, Garret, La., E1058 Reichert, David G., Wash., E1054 Young, Don, Alaska, E1052

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