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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2017 No. 25 House of Representatives The House met at noon and was all-star standout in both Gators foot- 2, a medium-range ballistic missile, called to order by the Speaker pro tem- ball and baseball. His contributions on was test-fired on Sunday. The actions pore (Mr. MEADOWS). the field earned him entry into the by the North Korean regime are unac- f prestigious Hall of Fame as a Gators ceptable and in clear violation of the Great in 1969. U.N. Security Council. DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO Perry was married to his wife, Noel, It is imperative that the U.S. stand TEMPORE for 57 years, raised four children—Jana, strong with Japan, South Korea, and The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- Mark, Keith, and Matthew—and en- all of our allies in the region against fore the House the following commu- joyed the joy and laugher of their 15 the provocative and threatening ac- nication from the Speaker: grandchildren. tions of the North Korean totalitarian A tremendous family man, Perry was WASHINGTON, DC, regime. It is a regime that is deter- February 13, 2017. also successful in business. He was an mined to thumb their nose at the world I hereby appoint the Honorable MARK insurance agent for 48 years. He had by advancing their nuclear capabili- MEADOWS to act as Speaker pro tempore on the honor of being the youngest person ties, thus threatening their neighbors, this day. ever elected as mayor of Gainesville, the region, and for that matter, the PAUL D. RYAN, and he was a representative for the world. Speaker of the House of Representatives. State of Florida. The United States and its world part- f He was a tireless volunteer and doer ners must continue to persuade North in Gainesville, receiving countless MORNING-HOUR DEBATE Korea to adhere to the U.N. Security awards and recognition for his commu- Council resolutions or they choose to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- nity service. Two of those particularly invite worldwide sanctions upon them. ant to the order of the House of Janu- stick out to me. He received the first This is North Korea’s decision and no- ary 3, 2017, the Chair will now recog- ever Ethics in Business Award and the body else’s. nize Members from lists submitted by Service Above Self Award, given by the the majority and minority leaders for Gainesville Rotary for his lifetime of f morning-hour debate. service. In addition to his time, Perry CORETTA SCOTT KING LETTER TO The Chair will alternate recognition donated more than 60 gallons of blood SENATE JUDICIARY between the parties, with each party and set an example for all to follow. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The limited to 1 hour and each Member For all the things Perry was and all Chair recognizes the gentleman from other than the majority and minority the good things Perry did, I will always California (Mr. SHERMAN) for 5 min- leaders and the minority whip limited remember him most for his smile, his utes. to 5 minutes, but in no event shall de- great attitude, and his notorious rep- Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I in- bate continue beyond 1:50 p.m. utation to have his camera at the clude in the RECORD a letter and state- ready. He was always snapping pictures f ment by Coretta Scott King from of people enjoying life and making sure March 19, 1986. HONORING PERRY C. MCGRIFF to send to each individual a copy so The SPEAKER pro tempore. The they could remember the happy mo- THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CEN- TER FOR NONVIOLENT SOCIAL ments in the life that he captured. Chair recognizes the gentleman from CHANGE, INC., Florida (Mr. YOHO) for 5 minutes. To Noel and the McGriff family, Atlanta, GA, March 19, 1986. Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, on Thurs- thank you for sharing Perry’s time. Re Nomination of Jefferson B. Sessions, U.S. day, February 2, 2017, Gainesville, Flor- Thank you for sharing your husband Judge, Southern District of Alabama ida, and the State of Florida lost a fa- and father with all of us. We will miss Hearing, March 13, 1986. vorite son in Mr. Perry C. McGriff. him forever, but we will never forget Hon. STROM THURMOND, Perry was an icon in my hometown of Perry. All of us, the city of Gainesville, Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, U.S. Gainesville, Florida, and was known the State of Florida, and I are all bet- Senate, Washington, DC. for his strong civic duty in helping peo- ter for having known Perry. DEAR SENATOR THURMOND: I write to ex- press my sincere opposition to the confirma- ple wherever and whenever they needed STANDING STRONG AGAINST NORTH KOREA tion of Jefferson B. Sessions as a federal dis- it. Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, this past trict court judge for the Southern District of Perry was born in Arcadia, Florida, weekend, North Korea said it had suc- Alabama. My professional and personal roots in 1937, and went to school at the Uni- cessfully completed the launch of a in Alabama are deep and lasting. Anyone versity of Florida, where he became an new ballistic missile. The Pukguksong- who has used the power of his office as

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.

H1101

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:24 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.000 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1102 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 United States Attorney to intimidate and vote in key Southern states has doubled The scope and character of the investiga- chill the free exercise of the ballot by citi- since 1965. This would not have been possible tions conducted by Mr. Sessions also warrant zens should not be elevated to our courts. without the Voting Rights Act. grave concern. Witnesses were selectively Mr. Sessions has used the awesome powers of However, Blacks still fall far short of hav- chosen in accordance with the favorability of his office in a shabby attempt to intimidate ing equal participation in the electoral proc- their testimony to the government’s case. and frighten elderly black voters. For this ess. Particularly in the South, efforts con- Also, the prosecution illegally withheld from reprehensible conduct, he should not be re- tinue to be made to deny Blacks access to the defense critical statements made by wit- warded with a federal judgeship. the polls, even where Blacks constitute the nesses. Witnesses who did testify were pres- I regret that a long-standing commitment majority of the voters. It has been a long up- sured and intimidated into submitting the prevents me from appearing in person to tes- hill struggle to keep alive the vital legisla- ‘‘correct’’ testimony. Many elderly blacks tify against this nominee. However, I have tion that protects the most fundamental were visited multiple times by the FBI who attached a copy of my statement opposing right to vote. A person who has exhibited so then hauled them over 180 miles by bus to a Mr. Sessions’ confirmation and I request much hostility to the enforcement of those grand jury in Mobile when they could more that my statement as well as this letter be laws, and thus, to the exercise of those rights easily have testified at a grand jury twenty made a part of the hearing record. by Black people should not be elevated to miles away in Selma. These voters, and oth- I do sincerely urge you to oppose the con- the federal bench. ers, have announced they are now never The irony of Mr. Sessions’ nomination is firmation of Mr. Sessions. going to vote again. that, if confirmed, he will be given life ten- Sincerely, I urge you to consider carefully Mr. Ses- ure for doing with a federal prosecution what CORETTA SCOTT KING. sions’ conduct in these matters. Such a re- the local sheriffs accomplished twenty years view, I believe, raises serious questions ago with clubs and cattle prods. Twenty about his commitment to the protection of STATEMENT OF CORETTA SCOTT KING ON THE years ago, when we marched from Selma to NOMINATION OF JEFFERSON BEAUREGARD the voting rights of all American citizens Montgomery, the fear of voting was real, as and consequently his fair and unbiased judg- SESSIONS FOR THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT the broken bones and bloody heads in Selma COURT, SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF ALABAMA— ment regarding this fundamental right. and Marion bore witness. As my husband When the circumstances and facts sur- SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE, THURSDAY, wrote at the time, ‘‘it was not just a sick MARCH 13, 1986 rounding the indictments of Al Turner, his imagination that conjured up the vision of a wife, Evelyn, and Spencer Hogue are ana- MR. CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE COM- public official, sworn to uphold the law, who lyzed, it becomes clear that the motivation MITTEE: Thank you for allowing me this op- forced an inhuman march upon hundreds of was political, and the result frightening—the portunity to express my strong opposition to Negro children; who ordered the Rev. James wide-scale chill of the exercise of the ballot the nomination of Jefferson Sessions for a Bevel to be chained to his sickbed; who for blacks, who suffered so much to receive federal district judgeship for the Southern clubbed a Negro woman registrant, and who that right in the first place. Therefore, it is callously inflicted repeated brutalities and District of Alabama. My longstanding com- my strongly-held view that the appointment indignities upon nonviolent Negroes peace- mitment which I shared with my husband, of Jefferson Sessions to the federal bench fully petitioning for their constitutional Martin, to protect and enhance the rights of would irreparably damage the work of my right to vote.’’ Black Americans, rights which include equal husband, Al Turner, and countless others access to the democratic process, compels Free exercise of voting rights is so funda- mental to American democracy that we can who risked their lives and freedom over the me to testify today. past twenty years to ensure equal participa- Civil rights leaders, including my husband not tolerate any form of infringement of those rights. Of all the groups who have been tion in our democratic system. and Albert Turner, have fought long and The exercise of the franchise is an essen- disenfranchised in our nation’s history, none hard to achieve free and unfettered access to tial means by which our citizens ensure that has struggled longer or suffered more in the the ballot box. Mr. Sessions has used the those who are governing will be responsible. awesome power of his office to chill the free attempt to win the vote than Black citizens. No group has had access to the ballot box de- My husband called it the number one civil exercise of the vote by black citizens in the right. The denial of access to the ballot box district he now seeks to serve as a federal nied so persistently and intently. Over the past century, a broad array of schemes have ultimately results in the denial of other fun- judge. This simply cannot be allowed to hap- damental rights. For, it is only when the pen. Mr. Sessions’ conduct as U.S. Attorney, been used in attempts to block the Black vote. The range of techniques developed with poor and disadvantaged are empowered that from his politically-motivated voting fraud they are able to participate actively in the prosecutions to his indifference toward the purpose of repressing black voting rights run the gamut from the straightforward ap- solutions to their own problems. criminal violations of civil rights laws, indi- We still have a long way to go before we plication of brutality against black citizens cates that he lacks the temperament, fair- can say that minorities no longer need be ness and judgment to be a federal judge. who tried to vote to such legalized frauds as ‘‘grandfather clause’’ exclusions and rigged concerned about discrimination at the polls. The Voting Rights Act was, and still is, vi- Blacks, Hispanics, Native Americans and tally important to the future of democracy literacy tests. The actions taken by Mr. Sessions in re- Asian Americans are grossly underrep- in the United States. I was privileged to join gard to the 1984 voting fraud prosecutions resented at every level of government in Martin and many others during the Selma to represent just one more technique used to in- America. If we are going to make our time- Montgomery march for voting rights in 1965. timidate Black voters and thus deny them less dream of justice through democracy a Martin was particularly impressed by the de- this most precious franchise. The investiga- reality, we must take every possible step to termination to get the franchise of blacks in tions into the absentee voting process were ensure that the spirit and intent of the Vot- Selma and neighboring Perry County. As he conducted only in the Black Belt counties ing Rights Act of 1965 and the Fifteenth wrote, ‘‘Certainly no community in the his- where blacks had finally achieved political Amendment of the Constitution is honored. tory of the Negro struggle has responded power in the local government. Whites had The federal courts hold a unique position with the enthusiasm of Selma and her neigh- been using the absentee process to their ad- in our constitutional system, ensuring that boring town of Marion. Where Birmingham vantage for years, without incident. Then, minorities and other citizens without polit- depended largely upon students and unem- when Blacks, realizing its strength, began to ical power have a forum in which to vindi- ployed adults [to participate in non-violent use it with success, criminal investigations cate their rights. Because of this unique role, protest of the denial of the franchise], Selma were begun. it is essential that the people selected to be has involved fully 10 per cent of the Negro In these investigations, Mr. Sessions, as federal judges respect the basic tenets of our population in active demonstrations, and at U.S. Attorney, exhibited an eagerness to legal system: respect for individual rights least half the Negro population of Marion bring to trial and convict three leaders of and a commitment to equal justice for all. was arrested on one day.’’ Martin was refer- the Perry County Civic League including Al- The integrity of the Courts, and thus the ring of course to a group that included the bert Turner despite evidence clearly dem- rights they protect, can only be maintained defendants recently prosecuted for assisting onstrating their innocence of any wrong- if citizens feel confident that those selected elderly and illiterate blacks to exercise that doing. Furthermore, in initiating the case, as federal judges will be able to judge with franchise. In fact, Martin anticipated from Mr. Sessions ignored allegations of similar fairness others holding differing views. the depth of their commitment twenty years behavior by whites, choosing instead to chill I do not believe Jefferson Sessions pos- ago, that a united political organization the exercise of the franchise by blacks by his sesses the requisite judgment, competence, would remain in Perry County long after the misguided investigation. In fact, Mr. Ses- and sensitivity to the rights guaranteed by other marchers had left. This organization, sions sought to punish older black civil the federal civil rights laws to qualify for ap- the Perry County Civic League, started by rights activists, advisors and colleagues of pointment to the federal district court. Mr. Turner, Mr. Hogue, and others, as Martin my husband, who had been key figures in the Based on his record, I believe his confirma- predicted, continued ‘‘to direct the drive for civil rights movement in the 1960’s. These tion would have a devastating effect on not votes and other rights.’’ In the years since were persons who, realizing the potential of only the judicial system in Alabama, but the Voting Rights Act was passed, Black the absentee vote among Blacks, had learned also on the progress we have made every- Americans in Marion, Selma and elsewhere to use the process within the bounds of legal- where toward fulfilling my husband’s dream have made important strides in their strug- ity and had taught others to do the same. that he envisioned over twenty years ago. I gle to participate actively in the electoral The only sin they committed was being too therefore urge the Senate Judiciary Com- process. The number of Blacks registered to successful in gaining votes. mittee to deny his confirmation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:24 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.002 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1103 I thank you for allowing me to share my rights by Black people should not be Much of this artistry, delightful spir- views. elevated to the federal bench. it, strong determination, and hard Mr. SHERMAN. Mr. Speaker, last ‘‘The irony of Mr. Sessions’ nomina- work, was inspired by religious faith in Tuesday, Senator ELIZABETH WARREN tion is that, if confirmed, he will be You and the promise of the Holy Bible sought to bring to the attention of the given life tenure for doing with a fed- and, in recent decades, for many, the Senate some material about an Attor- eral prosecution what the local sheriffs Holy Koran. Their witness to undying ney General nominee, Senator Jeff Ses- accomplished twenty years ago with hope and peaceful resolution carry the sions. She was silenced. She persisted. clubs and cattle prods.’’ hope of forming a better United States Ultimately, the RECORD of the Senate ‘‘The actions taken by Mr. Sessions forever. does not reflect the remarks she was in regard to the 1984 voting fraud pros- Lord, we praise and thank You for trying to give. ecutions represent just one more tech- the African-American communities In particular, Senator WARREN was nique used to intimidate Black voters across this landscape who have shared trying to bring to the attention of the and thus deny them this most precious our past, bless our present, and endow Senate a statement and letter of franchise.’’ our future with hope, laughter, memo- Coretta Scott King from 1986. In 1986, ‘‘In these investigations, Mr. Ses- rable music, and other contributions to then Jefferson B. Sessions was a U.S. sions, as U.S. Attorney, exhibited an our common good. Bless them, and Attorney, a Federal prosecutor who eagerness to bring to trial and convict bless our Nation with peace and rec- had been appointed for a position as a three leaders of the Perry County Civic onciliation. U.S. district judge. League including Albert Turner despite And here, in the people’s House, may At that time, Coretta Scott King evidence clearly demonstrating their all that is done be for Your greater wrote to the then-chair of the Senate innocence of any wrongdoing.’’ honor and glory. Judiciary Committee, Senator Strom ‘‘In fact, Mr. Sessions sought to pun- Amen. Thurmond. While the Senate may not ish older black civil rights activists, f entertain these remarks and while the advisors and colleagues of my husband, Senate may stifle a United States Sen- who had been key figures in the civil THE JOURNAL ator, this is the people’s House and it is rights movement in the 1960’s.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The appropriate that the RECORD of this ‘‘Therefore, it is my strongly-held Chair has examined the Journal of the House, at least, reflect the comments view that the appointment of Jefferson last day’s proceedings and announces of Coretta Scott King. Sessions to the federal bench would ir- to the House his approval thereof. So I would like to use the time re- reparably damage the work of my hus- Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- maining to read her cover letter from band, Al Turner, and countless others nal stands approved. March 13, 1986, and to read excerpts who risked their lives and freedom over from the statement she attached to it. the past 20 years to ensure equal par- f ‘‘Dear Senator Thurmond: ticipation in our democratic system.’’ PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ‘‘I write to express my sincere oppo- Clearly, if these criticisms set forth sition to the confirmation of Jefferson in this statement—the entirety of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the B. Sessions as a federal district court which will be made part of the House gentleman from Texas (Mr. POE) come judge for the Southern District of Ala- Record—indicate, as they did to the forward and lead the House in the bama. My professional and personal United States Senate in 1986, that Mr. Pledge of Allegiance. roots in Alabama are deep and lasting. Sessions should not be a district court Mr. POE of Texas led the Pledge of Anyone who has used the power of his judge, they also argue that he should Allegiance as follows: office as United States Attorney to in- not have been confirmed as Attorney I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the timidate and chill the free exercise of General of the United States. United States of America, and to the Repub- the ballot by citizens should not be ele- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, f indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. vated to our courts. Mr. Sessions has used the awesome powers of his office RECESS f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- in a shabby attempt to intimidate and RESIGNATION FROM THE HOUSE ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair frighten elderly black voters. For this OF REPRESENTATIVES reprehensible conduct, he should not be declares the House in recess until 2 rewarded with a federal judgeship. p.m. today. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- ‘‘I regret that a long-standing com- Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 10 fore the House the following resigna- mitment prevents me from appearing minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- tion from the House of Representa- in person to testify against this nomi- cess. tives: nee. However, I have attached a copy of f CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, my statement opposing Mr. Sessions’ b 1400 confirmation and I request that my February 10, 2017. AFTER RECESS Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, statement as well as this letter be Speaker, U.S. House of Representatives, made part of the hearing record. The recess having expired, the House Washington, DC. ‘‘I do sincerely urge you to oppose was called to order by the Speaker pro DEAR SPEAKER RYAN: In order to serve as the confirmation of Mr. Sessions.’’ tempore (Mr. SMITH of Nebraska) at 2 the Secretary of the Department of Health The statement attached to that let- p.m. and Human Services in President Donald J. Trump’s administration, I hereby resign my ter is fairly long and very convincing, f and I will read parts of it here: seat in the United States House of Rep- ‘‘Mr. Sessions has used the awesome PRAYER resentatives effective 9:00 AM on February power of his office to chill the free ex- The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick 10th, 2017. Please see the enclosed letter to the Hon- ercise of the vote by black citizens in J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: orable Nathan Deal, Governor of the State of the district he now seeks to serve as a We give You thanks, O God, for giv- Georgia. federal judge. This simply cannot be al- ing us another day. Yours truly, lowed to happen. Mr. Sessions’ conduct During this Black History Month, we THOMAS PRICE, M.D. as U.S. Attorney, from his politically- are made aware again of the history motivated voting fraud prosecutions to that has formed our Nation and affects CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, his indifference toward criminal viola- us still. With the craft of mass commu- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, tions of civil rights laws, indicates that nication and the skill of good teachers February 10, 2017. he lacks the temperament, fairness and and of artists, You have brought to life Hon. NATHAN DEAL, Governor, State of Georgia, judgment to be a federal judge.’’ again powerful stories of African- Atlanta, GA. ‘‘A person who has exhibited so much American heroes, scholars, artists, and DEAR GOVERNOR DEAL: In order to serve as hostility to the enforcement of those outstanding leaders throughout our the Secretary of the Department of Health laws, and thus, to the exercise of those Nation’s history. and Human Services in President Donald J.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:24 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.004 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1104 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 Trump’s administration, I hereby resign ef- all worked together to track down traf- b 1629 fective 9:00AM on February 10th, 2017, from fickers and buyers during the Super AFTER RECESS the United States House of Representatives. Bowl, making the game a huge success. The opportunity to serve the citizens of As the game moves to Minnesota The recess having expired, the House the Sixth District of Georgia has truly been was called to order by the Speaker pro one of the greatest honors of my life. This next year, those in the slave trade need tempore (Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky) at 4 job and my passion for serving would not to know the law will be ready to cap- have been possible without the support, love, ture them. o’clock and 29 minutes p.m. and friendship of family, constituents, com- And that is just the way it is. f munity, colleagues, and staff throughout the ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER years. It has been a blessing to work with f such talented and bright minds to advance PRO TEMPORE real solutions to some of our nation’s tough- PRESIDENT TRUMP’S REPORT The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- est issues and challenges. CARD ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair My first professional calling was not that (Mr. SMITH of Texas asked and was will postpone further proceedings of an elected official, it was to care for pa- today on motions to suspend the rules tients—following in the footsteps of both my given permission to address the House father and grandfather who were also physi- for 1 minute and to revise and extend on which a recorded vote or the yeas cians. The caring relationship a doctor has his remarks.) and nays are ordered, or on which the for their patients is what brought me into Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, vote incurs objection under clause 6 of public service, and it is that caring approach here is President Trump’s report card rule XX. I wish to continue at the Department of after less than a month in office: Record votes on postponed questions Health and Human Services. will be taken later. With the remarkable challenges that lay The President wants to stop terrorist ahead for our great nation, I am enthusiastic attacks by conducting background f for the opportunity to be a part of solving checks on refugees from countries that ABIE ABRAHAM VA CLINIC them on behalf of the American people. are considered security threats. There is much work to be done to ensure we The President wants to prevent Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I have a health care system that works for pa- criminal immigrants from being re- move to suspend the rules and pass the tients, families, and doctors; that leads the leased into our neighborhoods where bill (H.R. 609) to designate the Depart- world in the cure and prevention of illness; they continue to prey on innocent ment of Veterans Affairs health care and that is based on sensible rules to protect Americans. center in Center Township, Butler the well-being of the country while embrac- County, Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Abie ing its innovative spirit. The President wants to lower the cost of health care and let individuals Abraham VA Clinic’’. It will be my honor to continue working The Clerk read the title of the bill. with you and every other Governor of these choose their own insurance plans. great United States to ensure that that our The President wants to reduce our The text of the bill is as follows: health care system becomes one that is more $500 billion trade deficit and export H.R. 609 patient-centered, innovative, responsive and goods and services, not jobs. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- affordable for all Americans. Thanks to you The President wants to eliminate un- resentatives of the United States of America in for your service, friendship, and support. necessary regulations which are a drag Congress assembled, Yours truly, SECTION 1. FINDINGS. THOMAS PRICE, M.D., on the economy. Mr. Speaker, the President’s critics Congress finds the following: Member of Congress. (1) Abie Abraham of Lyndora, Pennsyl- f oppose all these actions. Only the peo- vania, was stationed during World War II ple are on the President’s side. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER with the 18th Infantry in New York; 3 years with the 14th Infantry in Panama; 15th In- PRO TEMPORE f fantry, unassigned in China, while the U.S.S. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Panay was sunk; 30th Infantry, Presidio, San clause 5(d) of rule XX, the Chair an- COMMUNICATION FROM THE Francisco; and the 31st Infantry, Manila, nounces to the House that, in light of CLERK OF THE HOUSE Philippines, for 9 years. the resignation of the gentleman from The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- (2) During World War II, Abraham fought, was captured, endured the Bataan Death Georgia (Mr. PRICE), the whole number fore the House the following commu- March and as a prisoner of war for 31⁄2 years, of the House is 432. nication from the Clerk of the House of was beaten, stabbed, shot, survived malaria f Representatives: and starvation to be rescued by the 6th OFFICE OF THE CLERK, NO TRAFFICKING IN OUR CITY, Rangers. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, (3) Abraham stayed behind at the request OUR STATE, OR OUR COUNTRY Washington, DC, February 13, 2017. of General Douglas MacArthur for 21⁄2 more (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, years disinterring the bodies of his fallen given permission to address the House The Speaker, House of Representatives, comrades from the Bataan Death March and for 1 minute.) Washington, DC. the prison camps, helping to identify their Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- bodies and see that they were properly laid mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of to rest. Houston recently hosted the exciting the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- (4) After his promotion in 1945, Abraham Super Bowl LI. As Texas welcomed peo- tives, the Clerk received the following mes- came back to the United States where he ple from across the United States, the sage from the Secretary of the Senate on served as a recruiter and then also served 2 message was clear: no trafficking, not February 13, 2017, at 10:11 am.: years in Germany until his retirement with in our city, not in our State, not in our That the Senate agreed to without amend- 30 years of service as a Master Sergeant. country. ment H. Con. Res. 18. (5) Abraham received numerous medals for As exploiters and buyers roamed the Appointment: National Advisory Com- his service, including the Purple Heart, and streets looking for prey, Mayor Turner, mittee on Institutional Quality and Integ- had several documentaries on the Discovery rity. Channel and History Channel. the Department of Homeland Security, With best wishes, I am, (6) Abraham wrote the books ‘‘Ghost of Ba- and local law enforcement were pre- Sincerely, taan Speaks’’ in 1971 and ‘‘Oh, God, Where pared to jail traffickers and rescue vic- KAREN L. HAAS. Are You’’ in 1977 to help the public better un- tims. derstand what our brave men endured at the Well, Mr. Speaker, 183 sex buyers and f hands of the Imperial Japanese Army as pris- nine traffickers were arrested; 76 vic- oners of war. tims were rescued. The local news RECESS (7) Abraham was a life member of the Vet- showed the faces of the arrested traf- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- erans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, fickers and buyers across the bottom of ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair the Purple Heart Combat/Infantry Organiza- tion, the American Ex-POWs, the Disabled Houston television screens. The days of declares the House in recess until ap- American Veterans, and the American De- hiding in plain sight are over. proximately 4:30 p.m. today. fenders of Bataan. I am proud of all the work by Hous- Accordingly (at 2 o’clock and 6 min- (8) Abraham was a volunteer at Veterans ton, the NFL, local law enforcement, utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. Affairs Butler Healthcare for 23 years from

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.005 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1105 1988 to 2011 and had 36,851 service hours car- course of 23 years tending to the vet- tion could ask no more of a single per- ing for our veterans. eran patients there. son, and Mr. Abraham continued to SEC. 2. ABIE ABRAHAM VA CLINIC. In his spare time, he authored two give. (a) DESIGNATION.—The Department of Vet- books, made public appearances at To the gentleman from Pennsyl- erans Affairs health care center in Center schools and community centers, and vania, the State of Pennsylvania is rep- Township, Butler County, Pennsylvania, participated in documentary films that resented well here. They were rep- shall after the date of the enactment of this Act be known and designated as the ‘‘Abie have aired on the Discovery and His- resented well by Mr. Abraham. It is an Abraham VA Clinic’’. tory Channels. In addition to all of honor and a privilege to support this (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in any that, he was also a lightweight boxing piece of legislation. I encourage my law, regulation, map, document, paper, or champion and trainer. colleagues to not only support this, but other record of the United States to the Master Sergeant Abraham most cer- to maybe go read the bio of this great health care center referred to in subsection tainly lived a full and interesting life American. (a) shall be deemed to be a reference to the characterized by both service in and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ‘‘Abie Abraham VA Clinic’’. out of uniform. Given that, it is only my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- fitting and appropriate that we honor Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ant to the rule, the gentleman from him by naming the VA healthcare cen- yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. ROE) and the gentleman ter in Butler County, Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania (Mr. KELLY), my friend from Minnesota (Mr. WALZ) each will after him. This legislation satisfies all and colleague. control 20 minutes. the committee’s naming criteria and is Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. The Chair recognizes the gentleman supported by the Pennsylvania con- Speaker, I thank the chairman. I from Tennessee. gressional delegation as well as many brought with me today a picture of GENERAL LEAVE VSOs. Master Sergeant Abraham. Now, I Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Once again, I thank my colleague, never knew him when he looked like ask unanimous consent that all Mem- Congressman MIKE KELLY, for intro- this. I knew him when he was much bers have 5 legislative days in which to ducing this bill. I urge all of my col- older. I have got to tell you that to revise and extend their remarks and leagues to join me in supporting it. know Master Sergeant Abraham, you add extraneous material. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of would never have known what he had The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there my time. gone through in his life because all of objection to the request of the gen- Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- these folks from that time period just tleman from Tennessee? self such time as I may consume. did what they had to do. When you ask There was no objection. I would, first of all, like to thank the them, ‘‘Why did you do it?’’ they said, Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I chairman for bringing H.R. 609 to the ‘‘It wasn’t an option. It wasn’t an op- yield myself such time as I may con- floor, and a very special thank you to tion. We had to do it.’’ There is just sume. the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. certain times in our history that peo- Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support KELLY) for the honor and privilege to ple rise up and they do things that are of H.R. 609, a bill to name the Depart- learn about this great American. You incredible, ordinary people doing ex- ment of Veterans Affairs health care heard a little bit of the story, and you traordinary things. center in Center Township, Butler will hear more of it from Mr. KELLY. It Just being around Mr. Abraham for a County, Pennsylvania, the Abie Abra- is sometimes unimaginable that such long time—I never called him Abie, by ham VA Clinic. as Mr. Abraham walked amongst us. the way. I did not call him Abie. I al- This bill is sponsored by the gen- I oftentimes hear that people dispar- ways called him sergeant or Mr. Abra- tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. age when Congress does naming bills. If ham—I was just always so impressed KELLY), my good friend. I am grateful anyone was ever deserving of having a with him. It is such an honor and a to him for introducing this legislation VA center named after them, and the privilege to be able to stand here in the in honor of an American hero. importance of attaching that name and people’s House to talk about a true Master Sergeant Abraham lived a the history for those who come after, American hero, somebody who was not truly remarkable life. As a teenager, he this is the gentleman. just a patriot, but was compassionate, set a world record for tree sitting—a You are going to hear more of this, somebody who never stopped serving popular pastime in those days—after but Mr. Abraham was born in Lyndora, his country in so many different ways. sitting in a tree for 31⁄2 months, accord- Pennsylvania. The stories just keep When I first read ‘‘The Ghost of Ba- ing to his obituary in the Pittsburgh coming up. Apparently he was gifted taan,’’ I went back and I talked to Mr. Post-Gazette. academically and, of course, was a Abraham. I said: You never told me In 1932, at the age of just 19, he en- boxer. Again, this is a point of personal about these things. listed in the United States Navy and, 2 privilege on this, he was actually a He said: Oh, don’t worry about that. years later, the United States Army. Regimental Sergeant Major for a time Those were just things we had to do. Over the course of a 30-year military when he was in his service. He served I said: No, but what you did was in- career, he served in the Philippines, in the Philippines, China, Germany, credible: to survive the Bataan Death China, Germany, and Panama. He and Panama. He survived the Bataan March, to be in a Japanese prison camp earned a number of accolades, includ- Death March. Having been out on Cor- for 31⁄2 years, to be stabbed, to be shot, ing the Purple Heart. He survived, Mr. regidor Island and hearing the stories to be beaten, to survive malaria and Speaker, the Bataan Death March and of the people who survived, unimagi- starvation. Did you ever think of try- 31⁄2 years in captivity, being beaten, nable horrors that they survived, and ing to get away? shot, and starved. then imagine after being rescued and He said: Yeah, MIKE, I did, but here Following his rescue, instead of re- being liberated and having a chance to was the thing: if one of us were to es- turning immediately to the United come home, Mr. Abraham chose to cape, the Japanese soldiers would shoot States, Master Sergeant Abraham make sure that all of his comrades 10 of the prisoners who were still in the agreed to stay behind to recover the re- came home. camp; so we didn’t want to do that to mains of his fallen comrades and to en- He was a recipient of the Purple any of our colleagues. I watched them sure they received the recognition they Heart and a lifelong member of the die. I held them as they died. We tried were certainly due. VFW, the American Legion, the Mili- to get them through the darkest times Following his service, Master Ser- tary Order of the Purple Heart, the that we could. geant Abraham devoted his time to American Ex-Prisoners of War Organi- I said: How did you endure? caring for his fellow brothers and sis- zation, the Disabled American Vet- He said: My faith. My faith. ters in arms as a lifelong member of erans, and the American Defenders of That is how we all get through the several veterans service organizations Bataan; but I think the chairman darkest time, on both knees, believing and as a volunteer at the VA Butler brought up something truly remark- that God is there for us no matter Healthcare Center, where he spent a able: giving 40,000 hours of volunteer what. But when you read his books and total of almost 40,000 hours over the service to his fellow veterans. This Na- you understand who this man was—and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.008 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 I think the second book was the one the fact that every single one of us has ‘‘§ 5906. Access of certain congressional em- that was incredible. Let me read this a role. I would just ask people to please ployees to veteran records because I just thought if there was look into Abie Abraham. Go online and ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—(1) The Secretary shall anything that somebody did out of see about Mr. Abraham. Go and see provide to each veteran who submits a claim love, it was Mr. Abraham. what Master Sergeant Abraham did, for benefits under the laws administered by His second book was ‘‘Oh, God, Where and say: If I could just be a little bit the Secretary an opportunity to permit a like Abie Abraham, the world would be covered congressional employee employed in Are You?’’ I want you to think of this the office of the Member of Congress rep- as a prisoner of war who survived the a better place. For all those who have resenting the district where the veteran re- Bataan Death March, who watched his died in the service of our country, they sides to have access to all of the records of colleagues killed along the way, and if will rest easier. the veteran in the databases of the Veterans they fell down, they got shot. Toward Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no Benefits Administration. the end, when they fell down and they additional speakers and I am prepared ‘‘(2) Notwithstanding any other provision couldn’t move anymore, they were put to close. of law, upon receipt of the permission from the veteran under paragraph (1), the Sec- into open graves, and they were told to I would just like to thank the gen- tleman again for bringing this to our retary shall provide read-only access to such go ahead and cover the graves. He re- records to such a covered congressional em- fused to do it. He said: They are still attention, honoring Master Sergeant Abraham’s life. Again, I think there is ployee in a manner that does not allow such moving. employee to modify the data contained in a little lesson here of how we conduct So we come to today and we think such records or in any part of a database of about what it is that we as Americans ourselves reflects on the sacrifice that the Veterans Benefits Administration. people like Mr. Abraham gave; and the can do. What is it we can do? What is ‘‘(3) A Member of Congress may designate gentleman has done so honorably and in our hearts? What is in our memory? not more than two employees of the Member nobly, and I thank him for that. I en- as covered congressional employees. What about all those who came before courage my colleagues to support H.R. ‘‘(b) REQUIREMENTS.—The Secretary may us and what they went through? 609. not impose any requirement other than the Mr. Abraham, as a child, went to Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance requirements specified under subsection school barefoot. His family didn’t have of my time. (e)(1) before treating an employee as a cov- money to even buy him shoes, but he Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I ered congressional employee for purposes of had a love for our Nation. He had a think this is an amazing story that Mr. this section. ‘‘(c) NONRECOGNITION.—A covered congres- love for his fellow man. He had a love KELLY shared before us. I had a history for veterans that was just incredible. sional employee may not be recognized as an professor in college who survived the agent or attorney under this chapter. But imagine the despair of being in Bataan Death March. He spent 31⁄2 ‘‘(d) LIMITATION ON USE OF FUNDS.—None of that prison camp and not knowing years in the same—I wonder if these the amounts made available to carry out what was going on in the outside war. two men knew each other. He, indeed, this section may be used to design, develop, I asked him: What did you do? How too, was a remarkable man. I can think or administer any training for purposes of did you keep people’s spirits up? of no better honor in Butler, Pennsyl- providing training to covered congressional He said: I made up stories. I would vania, than to honor his memory by employees. tell them that I just heard there was a ‘‘(e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: naming this medical center. Once ‘‘(1) The term ‘covered congressional em- rumor going through camp that our ar- again, I encourage all Members to sup- ployee’ means a permanent, full-time em- mies are close and they are going to port this legislation. ployee of a Member of Congress— rescue us. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ‘‘(A) whose responsibilities include assist- Think about that. They were clinging of my time. ing the constituents of the Member with to a made-up story from this man be- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The issues regarding departments or agencies of cause he knew that is how he could question is on the motion offered by the Federal Government; keep their spirits up in the darkest of the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. ‘‘(B) who satisfies the criteria required by the Secretary for recognition as an agent or ROE) that the House suspend the rules times. He kind of smiled about it. attorney under this chapter; and I said: That is incredible. and pass the bill, H.R. 609. ‘‘(C) who is designated by the Member of He said: Well, sometimes you have to The question was taken; and (two- Congress as a covered congressional em- do things a little different just to get thirds being in the affirmative) the ployee for purposes of this section. people’s spirits up. rules were suspended and the bill was ‘‘(2) The term ‘database of the Veterans I want you to fast forward to who passed. Benefits Administration’ means any data- this man was. I watched him walk with A motion to reconsider was laid on base of the Veterans Benefits Administration a cane as he got into his later years, in the table. in which the records of veterans relating to claims for benefits under the laws adminis- f his eighties and nineties, going to VA tered by the Secretary are retained, includ- Butler Healthcare Center every single WORKING TO INTEGRATE NET- ing information regarding medical records, day to help fellow veterans. His sole WORKS GUARANTEEING MEMBER compensation and pension exams records, purpose in life was to help other Amer- ACCESS NOW ACT rating decisions, statements of the case, sup- ican citizens, to help other veterans, to plementary statements of the case, notices Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I bring a little light into their life, to of disagreement, Form–9, and any successor move to suspend the rules and pass the form. bring a little happiness into their life; bill (H.R. 512) to title 38, United States 40,000 hours of service in a VA center. ‘‘(3) The term ‘Member of Congress’ means Code, to permit veterans to grant ac- a Representative, a Senator, a Delegate to He could have spent his time doing cess to their records in the databases of Congress, or the Resident Commissioner of other things, but he didn’t. He chose to the Veterans Benefits Administration Puerto Rico.’’. stay with those he loved. He chose to to certain designated congressional (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of serve those he loved. He chose to con- employees, and for other purposes, as sections at the beginning of such chapter is tinue to serve even in his retirement amended by adding at the end the following amended. new item: this Nation that he loved so much. The Clerk read the title of the bill. I can’t tell you how much it means to The text of the bill is as follows: ‘‘5906. Access of certain congressional em- ployees to veteran records.’’. be able to look at that new health cen- H.R. 512 (c) NO AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIA- ter going up and knowing that Mr. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- TIONS.—No additional funds are authorized to Abraham, from his new post, is looking resentatives of the United States of America in be appropriated to carry out this section or down and is so thankful to a grateful Congress assembled, the amendments made by this section. This nation that we are taking time to take SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. section and such amendments may only be care of those who have given every- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Working to carried out using amounts otherwise author- Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member thing they can to make sure our Na- ized to be appropriated, of which, during the Access Now Act’’ or the ‘‘WINGMAN Act’’. tion remains free. period of fiscal years 2018 through 2021, not This is an incredible time in our his- SEC. 2. PROVISION OF ACCESS TO CASE-TRACK- more than $10,000,000 may be obligated or ex- ING INFORMATION. pended for such purpose. tory. This has nothing to do with par- (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 59 of title 38, ties. It has nothing to do with who you United States Code, is amended by adding at The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- vote for. It has to do with who we are, the end the following: ant to the rule, the gentleman from

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Mr. Speaker, I months, only to be told a piece of docu- quests from veterans seeking aid in ask unanimous consent that all Mem- ment has been missing that could have navigating the benefits claims process. bers have 5 legislative days in which to been added months before. It makes Unfortunately, the VA is notoriously revise and extend their remarks and sense. It tracks the system. It ensures plagued by a culture of complacency add extraneous material. that the veteran is getting the fastest, and inefficiency. Even something as The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there best possible claim adjudication. simple as checking the status of a vet- objection to the request of the gen- The purpose is to provide that faster eran’s claim means that congressional tleman from Tennessee? status and let them know. There are staff members have to circle back There was no objection. privacy safeguards in the bill, which around numerous times with VA em- Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I reinforce the necessity for getting ployees before being able to provide the yield myself such time as I may con- prior consent from the veteran. Also, veterans in the First District with an sume. the bill clearly requires that congres- accurate update. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and urge all sional employees designated for this As a veteran of the Vietnam war, I Members to support H.R. 512, as access must be full-time employees know that time is valuable to our vet- amended, the WINGMAN Act. who provide constituent services. erans. We have to introduce more effi- First, I want to say a special thanks Veterans service organizations have ciency and transparency into the bene- to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. suggested that the VA should put a fits claims process. YOHO) and the gentleman from Illinois tracking system in place to ensure that H.R. 512 is designed to cut out the (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS), our colleagues, for these employees are only assisting con- middle step. The WINGMAN Act pro- introducing the WINGMAN Act. This stituents from their congressional dis- vides congressional offices with read- bill will help Members cut through the trict, and that congressional staff be only access to veterans’ records within red tape and help constituents who held accountable if found to abuse any the Veterans Benefits Administration. have applied for benefits from VA. aspect of this new and unprecedented This commonsense bill allows our vet- Isn’t that why we are here, to help authority. I support that suggestion. erans quicker access to simple status our constituents? In my district, county veterans serv- inquiries, provides greater trans- The problem is that when a con- ice organizations have also asked to parency for congressional offices, and stituent calls one of our offices to ask have read-only access to veterans’ allows the VA employees more time to about the status of a claim for benefits, records so they can assist veterans. I work on completing these claims. the only thing we can do is write VA wish to work with Chairman ROE to ex- Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 and wait for the VA to respond. I know amine whether that might be some- minutes to the gentleman from the I get very frustrated, and I am sure my thing that could be included down the Northern Mariana Islands (Mr. colleagues do as well, with how long it road. SABLAN), my good friend, a member of takes for the VA to get back to us. The There is broad bipartisan support for the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and a WINGMAN Act provides a simple solu- giving congressional staff access to stalwart supporter of this Nation’s vet- tion. The bill allows designated, per- veterans’ records so they can help vet- erans and those in uniform. manent, full-time congressional staff- erans navigate a complex claims sys- Mr. SABLAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank ers to look up the status of a claim on tem. Often it takes too long to find out my good friend, the ranking member of VA’s database, but only if the veteran the status of a veteran’s claim from the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Mr. has given the staffer permission. Staff- the VA. Allowing certain professional WALZ, for allowing me to speak in sup- ers would have read-only access to VA staff to do the checking themselves port of H.R. 512, the WINGMAN Act. databases, meaning they wouldn’t be seems like a simple step in the right I rise today in support of H.R. 512, able to add or remove any information. direction, and I support it. the WINGMAN Act, introduced by the Passing H.R. 512, as amended, would Last Congress, similar legislation to gentleman from Florida (Mr. YOHO), allow Members to help constituents H.R. 512 unanimously passed this my colleague, which would allow vet- who simply want to understand the House. I urge my colleagues to support erans to grant designated congres- status of their claim for benefits. I it today. sional office staff read-only access to urge all of my colleagues to join me in Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of their claim records within the VBA, supporting H.R. 512, as amended. my time. Veterans Benefits Administration. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, there are no Veterans my time. ask unanimous consent that the gen- Benefits Administration personnel in tleman from Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) the Northern Marianas. The veterans b 1645 control the balance of my time. in my district have no one to meet Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there with, but for the very occasional, usu- self such time as I may consume. objection to the request of the gen- ally one 6-hour visit to the Marianas Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. tleman from Tennessee? from a VBA staff based in Guam or Ha- 512, as amended, the WINGMAN Act. I, There was no objection. waii. It usually comes once every 6 too, would like to thank the gentleman Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield months if we are lucky. from Florida for trying to do all they 2 minutes to the gentleman from Staffs’ request for information on be- can to speed constituent services to Michigan (Mr. BERGMAN). half of veterans sometimes takes their folks. Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise months to receive a reply. This bipar- This legislation gives certain des- today in support of H.R. 512, the tisan bill would eliminate the delay by ignated congressional office case- WINGMAN Act. enabling permitted staff to obtain the workers access to veterans’ electronic I am honored to represent the First information directly from VBA data- disability claim records at the Vet- District of Michigan, which, as a State, bases. This would be especially mean- erans Benefits Administration, or VBA. has a higher than average percentage ingful to veterans in my district who It has broad support in this House, of veterans, and the First District has face additional challenges for dis- both Democrat and Republican. double the percentage of veterans of ability claims due to the lack of VA This bill would allow designated con- the rest of the State. To advocate for presence. gressional employees to have read-only these fine men and women who have Mr. Speaker, I represent three is- access to the Veterans Benefits Admin- served so honorably, we have the abso- lands. I work with Social Security and istration database to look at veterans’ lute imperative to make sure that they Selective Service, of course, like other records. Congressional staff would not get the help that they need to cut Members. For Social Security, we are

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.015 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 allowed to go and take data informa- didn’t know which files were attached for them on things that they haven’t tion, application forms, bring them to to which claims, the dates they were been able to get answers on, things the main island of Saipan, where we go received, which department they were that they haven’t heard back on. in line like everyone else and submit referred to, or that he could have filed Too often, we are faced with the bu- the applications on behalf of those con- one single, fully developed claim. Had reaucratic layers within the VA and a stituents we serve. my staff had access to the files, which slow turnaround that leave congres- So having separate islands and hav- WINGMAN permits, they would have sional staff, like mine and my col- ing a post office in one island and no been able to assess the issue and up- leagues here, jumping through hoops to post office in another island is a little date his claims without having to go access basic, but critical, information complicated and difficult. Can you just on a wild goose chase for the docu- on behalf of our veterans and their imagine for the veteran who needs ac- ments with the VA system. Getting his families. At times, we have waited for cess to his VBA records or who needs case on track could have happened in a months to get answers from the VA on access to his Veterans Health Adminis- matter of days, rather than years. He is behalf of a Hawaii veteran for some- tration file? Because we only have one more than deserving of this, especially thing that should be a quick turn- in the Northern Marianas. This one since some of his claims are over 6 around, like a status update. This is really would allow us to serve the vet- years old. unacceptable. erans who deserve nothing else but the Another constituent lost her husband I am proud to cosponsor the best. while he was serving this Nation. The WINGMAN Act, legislation introduced Our veterans responded to our call to VA was mailing all correspondence to by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. serve and defend this country without his widow to an incorrect address. This YOHO), my friend and colleague, which hesitation. We must, in return, do ev- resulted in an overpayment, which she allows us to cut through the red tape erything we can to serve them in the was unaware of since she was not re- and ensure that our certified case- same manner. ceiving the mail. The long-term result workers within our offices can provide I urge my colleagues to support this was a veteran’s widow having her ac- quicker, more efficient, and effective bill. count sent to collections, which dam- service to our veterans. It would help Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield aged her credit, and ended with her streamline the veterans claims process 3 minutes to the gentleman from Flor- new spouse’s tax return being con- by allowing congressional offices on be- ida (Mr. YOHO), a good friend and a fiscated. With access to the system half of our veteran constituents to di- strong advocate for our veterans. files, our office would have had a clear- Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I want to rectly access the status of pending er picture of the timeline of events and claims, rating decisions, statement of thank Mr. BILIRAKIS for the work that been able to direct and streamline our the case, and so on. he has done. And I want to congratu- inquiry. Instead, our staff had to hunt late Chairman ROE for taking over the down the relevant files from numerous I urge my colleagues to support this Veterans’ Affairs Committee. branches within the VA and reassemble commonsense legislation so that all of I would also like to thank the com- them like a jigsaw puzzle. us working here in the people’s House mittee staff for their diligence and help When I hear the story of Sergeant can better serve our veterans who have on this piece of legislation, as well as ABRAHAM or Colonel BERGMAN or Staff sacrificed so much for our communities the co-leads of this bill, Representa- Sergeant BRIAN MAST behind me, these and our country. tives RODNEY DAVIS, KYRSTEN SINEMA, people have paid a price for their serv- Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no and JOHN DELANEY. ice to this country, and our country further speakers. I urge support of H.R. Last Congress, WINGMAN passed the owes them a debt. As a country, we can 512. Veterans’ Affairs Committee unani- do better by our veterans and their I yield back the balance of my time. mously in the House due to the bipar- families. WINGMAN will not get rid of tisan support of the Members of this the claims backlog or solve all of the b 1700 Chamber. While it was disappointing problems. What it will do, however, is that we were unable to get it across make the process helping our veterans Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, once the finish line in the Senate, I feel con- easier. again, I encourage all Members to sup- fident, given the support this bill has Let’s put the words ‘‘customer serv- port this legislation. witnessed early on in this year, with ice’’ into our government. So I encour- Representative YOHO does out- 175 Members in the House and 7 Mem- age my colleagues to support this bill. standing work. He traveled to VISN 8 bers in the Senate, I am encouraged, Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 in St. Petersburg, Florida, which is and my hope is that we will see it pass minutes to the gentlewoman from Ha- about 3 hours away. We had a discus- the Senate this Congress and be signed waii (Ms. GABBARD) one of our warriors sion about this particular issue. He into law by the President. and a veteran of the war in Iraq, and a came up with the suggestion, and he is Congressional constituent advocates staunch advocate for this Nation’s vet- following through with it. It is a good worked diligently in our district offices erans. piece of legislation. Let’s get it to help veterans navigate the VA Ms. GABBARD. Mr. Speaker, one of through the Senate this time. claims appeals system. But, they are the things I appreciate most about the I yield back the balance of my time. hampered by having to wait weeks, job that I have to represent Hawaii’s The SPEAKER pro tempore. The months, and sometimes even years to Second District is to be able to respond question is on the motion offered by receive documents from the VA that to and provide assistance to the hun- the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. are often vital to helping the veteran dreds of veterans from across my State ROE) that the House suspend the rules reach a favorable resolution. that contact our office every single and pass the bill, H.R. 512, as amended. WINGMAN will help to expedite the year. They call to ask for help with process by cutting out the middleman things like compensation and pension The question was taken; and (two- and providing direct access to the files issues, health care, mileage reimburse- thirds being in the affirmative) the our office already has permission to ob- ment, especially for our veterans who rules were suspended and the bill, as tain. Currently, advocates must have a live on the neighboring islands where amended, was passed. privacy release form signed by the con- they don’t have a VA clinic on an is- The title of the bill was amended so stituent prior to acting on their behalf. land, education, home loan benefits, as to read: ‘‘A bill to amend title 38, This doesn’t change. What changes is and more. This is a responsibility as a United States Code, to permit veterans the wait time our offices, veterans, and Member of Congress and as a fellow to grant access to their records in the their families must endure while the veteran that I take very seriously. databases of the Veterans Benefits Ad- VA sends us the appropriate docu- Right now, if a veteran contacts my ministration to certain designated con- ments. office for assistance, we are required to gressional employees, and for other WINGMAN will help veterans such as go directly through the congressional purposes.’’. James, from my district, who had eight liaison at the VA. We act as the vet- A motion to reconsider was laid on separate, but related, claims filed. He erans advocate to try to get answers the table.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.017 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1109 HONORING INVESTMENTS IN RE- (5) NOTICE TO RECIPIENTS.—The Secretary hiring and retention of veteran employees, CRUITING AND EMPLOYING shall notify employers who will receive HIRE including efforts focused on veteran hiring AMERICAN MILITARY VETERANS Vets Medallion Awards not later than Octo- and training; (v) such employer provides each of its em- ACT OF 2017 ber 11th of each calendar year for the Awards to be awarded in November of that calendar ployees serving on active duty in the United Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I move year. States National Guard or Reserve with com- to suspend the rules and pass the bill (d) LIMITATION.—An employer who receives pensation sufficient, in combination with the (H.R. 244) to encourage effective, vol- a HIRE Vets Medallion Award for one cal- employee’s active duty pay, to achieve a untary private sector investments to endar year is not eligible to receive a HIRE combined level of income commensurate recruit, employ, and retain men and Vets Medallion Award for the subsequent with the employee’s salary prior to under- calendar year. taking active duty; and women who have served in the United SEC. 3. SELECTION OF RECIPIENTS. (vi) such employer has a tuition assistance States military with annual presi- (a) APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS.— program to support veteran employees’ at- dential awards to private sector em- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall re- tendance in postsecondary education during ployers recognizing such efforts, and view all applications received in a calendar the term of their employment. for other purposes, as amended. year to determine whether an employer (D) EXEMPTION FOR SMALLER EMPLOYERS.— The Clerk read the title of the bill. should receive a HIRE Vets Medallion An employer shall be deemed to meet the re- The text of the bill is as follows: Award, and, if so, of what level. quirements of subparagraph (C)(iv) if such (2) APPLICATION CONTENTS.—The Secretary employer— H.R. 244 shall require that all applications provide in- (i) employs 5,000 or fewer employees; and Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- formation on the programs and other efforts (ii) employs at least one human resources resentatives of the United States of America in of applicant employers during the calendar professional whose regular work duties in- Congress assembled, year prior to that in which the medallion is clude those described under subparagraph SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. to be awarded, including the categories and (C)(iv). This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Honoring In- activities governing the level of award for (E) ADDITIONAL CRITERIA.—The Secretary vestments in Recruiting and Employing which the applicant is eligible under sub- may provide, by rule, additional criteria American Military Veterans Act of 2017’’ or section (b). with which to determine qualifications for the ‘‘HIRE Vets Act’’. (3) VERIFICATION.—The Secretary shall receipt of each level of HIRE Vets Medallion SEC. 2. HIRE VETS MEDALLION AWARD PRO- verify all information provided in the appli- Award. GRAM. cations, to the extent that such information (2) SMALL- AND MEDIUM-SIZED EMPLOYERS.— (a) PROGRAM ESTABLISHED.—Not later than is relevant in determining whether or not an The Secretary shall establish similar awards 2 years after the date of enactment of this employer should receive a HIRE Vets Medal- in order to recognize achievements in sup- Act, the Secretary of Labor shall establish, lion Award or in determining the appropriate porting veterans by— by rule, a HIRE Vets Medallion Program to level of HIRE Vets Medallion Award for that (A) employers with 50 or fewer employees; solicit voluntary information from employ- employer to receive, including by requiring and (B) employers with more than 50 but fewer ers for purposes of recognizing, by means of the chief executive officer or the chief than 500 employees. an award to be designated a ‘‘HIRE Vets Me- human relations officer of the employer to (c) DESIGN BY SECRETARY.—The Secretary dallion Award’’, verified efforts by such em- attest under penalty of perjury that the em- shall establish the shape, form, and design of ployers— ployer has met the criteria described in sub- each HIRE Vets Medallion Award, except (1) to recruit, employ, and retain veterans; section (b) for a particular level of Award. that the Award shall be in the form of a cer- and (b) AWARDS.— tificate and shall state the year for which it (2) to provide community and charitable (1) LARGE EMPLOYERS.— was awarded. services supporting the veteran community. (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- (b) APPLICATION PROCESS.—Beginning in tablish two levels of HIRE Vets Medallion SEC. 4. DISPLAY OF AWARD. the calendar year following the calendar Awards to be awarded to employers employ- (a) IN GENERAL.—The recipient of a HIRE year in which the Secretary establishes the ing 500 or more employees, to be designated Vets Medallion Award may— program, the Secretary shall annually— the ‘‘Gold HIRE Vets Medallion Award’’ and (1) publicly display such Award through (1) solicit and accept voluntary applica- the ‘‘Platinum HIRE Vets Medallion the end of the calendar year following re- tions from employers in order to consider Award’’. ceipt of such Award; and whether those employers should receive a (B) GOLD HIRE VETS MEDALLION AWARD.—No (2) publicly display the HIRE Vets Medal- HIRE Vets Medallion Award; employer shall be eligible to receive a Gold lion Award Certificate issued in conjunction (2) review applications received in each HIRE Vets Medallion Award in a given cal- with such Award. calendar year; and endar year unless— (b) UNLAWFUL DISPLAY PROHIBITED.—It is (3) notify such recipients of their awards; (i) veterans constitute not less than 7 per- unlawful for any employer to publicly dis- and cent of all employees hired by such employer play a HIRE Vets Medallion Award, in con- (4) at a time to coincide with the annual during the prior calendar year; nection with, or as a part of, any advertise- commemoration of Veterans Day— (ii) such employer has retained not less ment, solicitation, business activity, or (A) announce the names of such recipients; than 75 percent of the veteran employees product— (B) recognize such recipients through pub- hired during the calendar year preceding the (1) for the purpose of conveying, or in a lication in the Federal Register; and preceding calendar year for a period of at manner reasonably calculated to convey, a (C) issue to each such recipient— least 12 months from the date on which the false impression that the employer received (i) a HIRE Vets Medallion Award of the employees were hired; the Award through the HIRE Vets Medallion level determined under section 3; and (iii) such employer has established an em- Award Program, if such employer did not re- (ii) a certificate stating that such em- ployee veteran organization or resource ceive such Award through the HIRE Vets Me- ployer is entitled to display such HIRE Vets group to assist new veteran employees with dallion Award Program; or Medallion Award. integration, including coaching and men- (2) for the purpose of conveying, or in a (C) TIMING.— toring; and manner reasonably calculated to convey, a (1) SOLICITATION PERIOD.—The Secretary (iv) such employer has established pro- false impression that the employer received shall solicit applications not later than Jan- grams to enhance the leadership skills of the Award through the HIRE Vets Medallion uary 31st of each calendar year for the veteran employees during their employment. Award Program for a year for which such Awards to be awarded in November of that (C) PLATINUM HIRE VETS MEDALLION employer did not receive such Award. calendar year. AWARD.—No employer shall be eligible to re- SEC. 5. APPLICATION FEE AND FUNDING. (2) END OF ACCEPTANCE PERIOD.—The Sec- ceive a Platinum HIRE Vets Medallion (a) FUND ESTABLISHED.—There is estab- retary shall stop accepting applications not Award in a given calendar year unless— lished in the Treasury of the United States a earlier than April 30th of each calendar year (i) the employer meets all the require- fund to be designated the ‘‘HIRE Vets Medal- for the Awards to be awarded in November of ments for eligibility for a Gold HIRE Vets lion Award Fund’’. Amounts appropriated to that calendar year. Medallion Award under subparagraph (B); the fund pursuant to subsection (c) shall re- (3) REVIEW PERIOD.—The Secretary shall (ii) veterans constitute not less than 10 main available until expended. finish reviewing applications not later than percent of all employees hired by such em- (b) FEE AUTHORIZED.—The Secretary may August 31st of each calendar year for the ployer during the prior calendar year; assess a reasonable fee on employers that Awards to be awarded in November of that (iii) such employer has retained not less apply for receipt of a HIRE Vets Medallion calendar year. than 85 percent of the veteran employees Award and the Secretary shall deposit such (4) SELECTION OF RECIPIENTS.—The Sec- hired during the calendar year preceding the fees into the HIRE Vets Medallion Award retary shall select the employers to receive preceding calendar year for a period of at Fund. The Secretary shall establish the HIRE Vets Medallion Awards not later than least 12 months from the date on which the amount of the fee such that the amounts col- September 30th of each calendar year for the employees were hired; lected as fees and deposited into the Fund Awards to be awarded in November of that (iv) such employer employs dedicated are sufficient to cover the costs associated calendar year. human resources professionals to support with carrying out this Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.020 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1110 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 (c) USE OF FUNDS.—Amounts in the HIRE While we still have work to do, it is of Labor, or DOL VETS, to establish a Vets Medallion Award Fund shall be avail- important to note that the veteran un- HIRE Vets Medallion Program. This able, subject to appropriation, to the Sec- employment rate has continued to de- program solicits voluntary information retary to carry out the HIRE Vets Medallion crease over recent years and, as of last from private sector employers, which Award Program. month, was at the low rate of 4.5 per- we know they want to give—and we SEC. 6. INITIAL IMPLEMENTATION. The HIRE Vets Medallion Program shall cent. Again, we have more work to do. know they are out there hiring folks— begin to solicit applications on January 31 of While many factors have led to the and allows these employers to display, the year that is two fiscal years after the fis- continued reduction of the unemploy- with other marketing materials, a rec- cal year during which funds are first appro- ment rate for the men and women who ognized medallion as a symbol of their priated to carry out this Act. have served, our Nation’s employers in support and willingness to make sure SEC. 7. REPORT TO CONGRESS. both the public and private sectors de- we hire veterans. Employers who pro- (a) REPORTS.—Beginning not later than 2 serve a lot of credit, and it is impor- vide community and charitable serv- years after the date of enactment of this tant that we highlight the work that ices that support veterans will also be Act, the Secretary shall submit to Congress these companies have done and that we eligible. annual reports on— (1) the fees collected from applicants for publicly recognize their commitment Hiring veterans isn’t just the right HIRE Vets Medallion Awards in the prior to hiring our veterans—hiring our true thing to do because it is morally and year and any changes in fees to be proposed American heroes. I commend them so ethically right; it makes good business in the present year; much. sense, and our folks know that. (2) the cost of administering the HIRE Vets With this idea in mind, H.R. 244, as The men and women who have served Medallion Award Program in the prior year; amended, would authorize the Sec- in our military have received invalu- (3) the number of applications for HIRE retary of Labor to create the HIRE able training and experience that has Vets Medallion Awards received in the prior year; and Vets Medallion Program, which would proven to help them thrive in post- (4) the HIRE Vets Medallion Awards recognize employers who hire and re- military employment. What they need awarded in the prior year, including the tain veterans as well as companies that is a foot in the door. Fortunately, we name of each employer to whom a HIRE Vets provide support services to the vet- have been seeing encouraging trends in Medallion Award was awarded and the level erans and their communities. veterans’ employment. Thanks to the of medallion awarded to each such employer. Employers would earn either plat- hard work of DOL VETS, combined (b) COMMITTEES.—The Secretary shall pro- inum or gold status based on require- with efforts within the private sector vide the reports required under subsection (a) to the Chairman and Ranking Member ments that are related to the number and Federal and State governments, of— of veterans hired each year, providing the veterans’ unemployment rate in (1) the Committees on Education and the pay equity for guardsmen and Reserve January of 2017 was 4.5 percent, which Workforce and Veterans’ Affairs of the House employees who were called up to active is lower than the national average. We of Representatives; and military service and other require- also know that the unemployment rate (2) the Committees on Health, Education, ments. Once these employers have for post-9/11 veterans remains unac- Labor, and Pensions and Veterans’ Affairs of earned HIRE Vets Medallions, they ceptably high at 8 percent. the Senate. would be able to publicly display their We must remain vigilant to make SEC. 8. Definitions. sure that the men and women who In this Act: awards to illustrate the work they (a) The term ‘‘employer’’ means any per- have done on behalf of our veterans and signed up to defend our Nation enjoy son, institution, organization, or other enti- the priorities they place on hiring vet- opportunities for growth when they re- ty that pays salary or wages for work per- erans within their workforces. turn home. The HIRE Vets Medallion formed or that has control over employee op- As we work to continue to decrease Program represents an additional in- portunities, except that such term does not the national unemployment rate centive for employers to hire and re- include— among our men and women who have tain veterans, which is something we (1) the Federal Government; or (2) any State government, as defined in served, it is vital that we highlight and can all get behind. such section. thank the employers who have stepped Again, I thank Colonel COOK for of- (b) The term ‘‘Secretary’’ means the Sec- up and have recognized the benefits of fering this bipartisan legislation. retary of Labor. hiring a veteran, and there are many Thank you to the vice chairman for (c) The term ‘‘veteran’’ has the meaning benefits as their work ethic is out- bringing this up and throwing his sup- given such term under section 101 of title 38, standing—their dedication, their integ- port behind it. I am certainly proud to United States Code. rity. They are really outstanding peo- stand in support of this legislation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ple, and I am glad that our employers Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ant to the rule, the gentleman from have stepped up. my time. Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) and the gen- I thank the staff of the Department Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield tleman from Minnesota (Mr. WALZ) of Labor and the Trump administration 3 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- each will control 20 minutes. for working with us to make improve- fornia (Mr. COOK), a good friend and a The Chair recognizes the gentleman ments to the legislation from what was great veterans’ advocate. I thank him from Florida. passed last year. for his service. GENERAL LEAVE I also thank Colonel PAUL COOK of Mr. COOK. I thank Mr. BILIRAKIS for Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask California for introducing and advo- yielding. unanimous consent that all Members cating for this bill, which, again, has Mr. Speaker, as a combat veteran, I have 5 legislative days in which to re- my full support. am deeply concerned that the men and vise and extend their remarks and to I urge all of my colleagues to join me women of our Armed Forces continue add extraneous materials. in supporting H.R. 244, as amended. to struggle to find jobs upon their re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of turn to civilian life. These individuals objection to the request of the gen- my time. have not only displayed great courage tleman from Florida? Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- in serving their country, but have ac- There was no objection. self such time as I may consume. quired certain skills that make them Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield I rise in support of H.R. 244, as ideal candidates for employment. myself such time as I may consume. amended, the HIRE Vets Act. I am not going to go over many of H.R. 244, as amended, would require I give a special thank-you to my col- the things that were said about how the Department of Labor to establish a league from California, Colonel COOK, the program is an incentive, as I think HIRE Vets Medallion Program to rec- who, himself, is a Vietnam veteran. that has already been covered. I just ognize and award employers with a Since the first day he got into Con- want to underscore the fact that this is HIRE Vets Medallion for their efforts gress, he has been our veterans’ stanch- a problem. It is not a new problem. You to recruit, employ, and retain veterans, est supporter, and I appreciate that. can have the statistics, but one has to as well as their work to provide com- Mr. Speaker, this is an innovative, ask oneself: Why do we have a lower munity and charitable services to vet- bipartisan piece of legislation. The percentage of veterans who are getting erans and their local communities. HIRE Vets Act directs the Department the jobs?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.009 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1111 As was already mentioned, I am a gether, these qualities make our vet- The Clerk read the title of the bill. product of the Vietnam war; and the erans especially valuable to employers, The text of the bill is as follows: veterans who were getting out there, a whether it be in the private sector, in H.R. 974 lot of people were afraid to hire them. the public sector, or in the nonprofit Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- They didn’t know whether they would sector. resentatives of the United States of America in be recalled back into the service, and Unfortunately, for them, returning Congress assembled, they didn’t know whether they had to a civilian job market is not as easy SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. post-traumatic stress disorder. They as it should be. They often face an un- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Boosting were not going to take a chance on friendly job market or even an un- Rates of American Veteran Employment them, and that was sad. That was friendly culture that doesn’t fully un- Act’’ or the ‘‘BRAVE Act’’. many, many years ago, but the stats derstand them and what they bring to SEC. 2. PREFERENCE FOR OFFERORS EMPLOY- don’t lie. the table. Many people don’t under- ING VETERANS. I am very, very supportive. I get pas- stand that our veterans are not seeking (a) IN GENERAL.—Subchapter II of chapter 81 of title 38, United States Code, is amended sionate about these programs because pity or a handout but are simply look- by adding after section 8128 the following the bottom line is we have to make ing for an opportunity to continue to new section: serve—to continue to contribute to our sure that we take care of the troops, ‘‘§ 8129. Preference for offerors employing and this is a bill that, with the co- communities and to our country. veterans operation of private industry, has This legislation is focused on encour- ‘‘(a) PREFERENCE.—In awarding a contract those incentives built in there. I am aging employers to hire more veterans. for the procurement of goods or services, the optimistic. We had bipartisan support We have seen different programs and Secretary may give a preference to offerors the last time. We went all the way up initiatives in my home State of Hawaii that employ veterans on a full-time basis. there and were waiting the last time and in States across the country that The Secretary shall determine such pref- for the Senate—holding our breath. Ev- focus on recruiting and retaining vet- erence based on the percentage of the full- erybody knows you don’t always get erans, but the fact is that there are time employees of the offeror who are vet- what you want. I am not going to give still more than 400,000 unemployed vet- erans. ‘‘(b) ENFORCEMENT PENALTIES FOR MIS- up and neither will the people who erans across the country. We need to REPRESENTATION.—(1) Any offeror that is de- have been supporting this bill because do more. termined by the Secretary to have willfully we are all very, very passionate about This legislation, the HIRE Vets Act, and intentionally misrepresented the vet- veterans. gets directly at this need by setting up eran status of the employees of the offeror I thank Chairman ROE. I thank an incentive system to encourage em- for purposes of subsection (a) may be Ranking Member WALZ for his great ployers to hire and retain veterans. It debarred from contracting with the Depart- support and military service. I thank creates a standard of recognition for ment for a period of not less than five years. Representative TULSI GABBARD for, employers who go the extra mile to re- ‘‘(2) If the Secretary carries out a debar- once again, being the original cospon- cruit and retain veterans and provide ment under paragraph (1), the Secretary services that support our veteran com- shall commence debarment action against sor of this important legislation and the offeror by not later than 30 days after de- for always being there for the veterans munity. termining that the offeror willfully and in- and the military. I also thank Con- We came together at the end of last tentionally misrepresented the veteran sta- gressman BILIRAKIS for his great sup- year and passed this legislation unani- tus of the employees of the offeror as de- port. mously. I am hopeful that my col- scribed in paragraph (1) and shall complete Once again, this passed out of the leagues will once again stand and pass debarment actions against such offeror by House last November and had unani- this important legislation and move it not later than 90 days after such determina- mous support. I urge my colleagues to along through the Senate and to the tion. ‘‘(3) The debarment of an offeror under once again vote in favor of this bill. President’s desk for his signature. Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no paragraph (1) includes the debarment of all Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 principals in the offeror for a period of not minutes to the gentlewoman from Ha- further speakers. I encourage my col- less than five years.’’. waii (Ms. GABBARD), who still serves leagues to support H.R. 244, as amend- (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of this Nation in uniform. ed. sections at the beginning of such chapter is Ms. GABBARD. Mr. Speaker, I stand I yield back the balance of my time. amended by inserting after the item relating in strong support of H.R. 244, the HIRE Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I urge to section 8128 the following new item: Vets Act, which I am so proud and hon- all Members to support this legislation. ‘‘8129. Preference for offerors employing vet- ored to have worked on with my col- I yield back the balance of my time. erans.’’. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The league and fellow veteran, Colonel The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- question is on the motion offered by PAUL COOK from California. ant to the rule, the gentleman from the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- This is personal for us. This is about Florida (Mr. BILIRAKIS) and the gen- RAKIS) that the House suspend the rules our brothers and sisters in uniform— tleman from Minnesota (Mr. WALZ) from different generations—who have and pass the bill, H.R. 244, as amended. The question was taken. each will control 20 minutes. been honored and thanked for their The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the The Chair recognizes the gentleman service in uniform but who, unfortu- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being from Florida. nately, are often forgotten about when in the affirmative, the ayes have it. b 1715 they lay that uniform down. Most peo- Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on GENERAL LEAVE ple aren’t aware that every single day that I demand the yeas and nays. roughly 500 veterans are transitioning The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. BILIRAKIS. I ask unanimous from military life to civilian life, join- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- consent that all Members have 5 legis- ing more than 2.9 million veterans who ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- lative days in which to revise and ex- have returned home since 9/11 alone. ceedings on this motion will be post- tend their remarks. Through their service and training, poned. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there these are men and women who are f objection to the request of the gen- highly trained, who have experience in tleman from Florida? leading, in making decisions under BOOSTING RATES OF AMERICAN There was no objection. pressure, in acting and working well as VETERAN EMPLOYMENT ACT Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield members of a team, and in accom- Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I move myself such time as I may consume. plishing the mission. to suspend the rules and pass the bill Mr. Speaker, to improve employment Data show that veterans are civic as- (H.R. 974) to amend title 38, United opportunities for veterans and business sets in our communities. They have States Code, to authorize the Secretary opportunities for the companies that higher rates of voting, of engaging with of Veterans Affairs, in awarding a con- employ them, H.R. 974 would authorize local governments and community or- tract for the procurement of goods or the Secretary of the Department of ganizations, of participating actively services, to give a preference to Veterans Affairs to consider how many in community service, and more. To- offerors that employ veterans. veterans an offeror employs during a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.022 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1112 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 decision to award a contract. Under Again, I would like to thank the gen- I yield back the balance of my time. this bill, the Secretary may give a pref- tlewoman from New York (Miss RICE), Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, once erence to such employers based on the who will tell us a little more about this again, I encourage all Members to sup- percentage of the workforce made up of in a few moments, and Chairman ROE port this legislation. I commend Rep- veterans. It makes sense. of Tennessee and Vice Chairman BILI- resentative RICE for her good work. The bill would also allow the Sec- RAKIS for continuing to bring good I yield back the balance of my time. retary to debar any offeror who will- pieces of veterans legislation to the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The fully and intentionally misrepresents floor. We are grateful for that. question is on the motion offered by the number of veterans they employ. I Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- am glad that provision is in there. my time. RAKIS) that the House suspend the rules Mr. Speaker, the unemployment rate Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I re- and pass the bill, H.R. 974. among certain age groups of veterans serve the balance of my time. The question was taken. still exceeds their nonveteran peers, Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the and this legislation is one common- minutes to the gentlewoman from New opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being sense step to incentivize employers to York (Miss RICE), the author, the lead in the affirmative, the ayes have it. bring veterans into their workforce and sponsor of this piece of legislation, a Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on increase job opportunities for veterans member of the Veterans’ Affairs Com- that I demand the yeas and nays. of all ages. mittee since coming to Congress, and a The yeas and nays were ordered. I firmly believe that we should do all fierce advocate for those warriors. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- we can to encourage both small and Miss RICE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- large businesses to provide job opportu- in support of H.R. 974, the Boosting ceedings on this motion will be post- nities for veterans as well as provide Rates of American Veteran Employ- poned. the Secretary the authority to consider ment Act, which I introduced along f such hires when making contracting with Congressman and Colonel PAUL decisions. This will further incentivize COOK of California. APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUALS government contractors to make a The BRAVE Act is commonsense, bi- TO UNITED STATES-CHINA ECO- positive investment in their companies partisan legislation that will authorize NOMIC AND SECURITY REVIEW by making investments in our Nation’s the VA Secretary, when awarding Fed- COMMISSION veterans. eral contracts, to give preference to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The I thank Miss RICE for her hard work contractors with high concentrations Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- on this bill, and it has my full support. I urge all of my colleagues to support of full-time veteran employees. This pointment, pursuant to section H.R. 974. bill will cost taxpayers absolutely 1238(b)(3) of the Floyd D. Spence Na- I reserve the balance of my time. nothing. tional Defense Authorization Act for Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- It will, first, reward companies that fiscal year 2001 (22 U.S.C. 7002), as self such time as I may consume. actively hire and invest in our vet- amended, and the order of the House of Mr. Speaker, I, too, rise in support of erans, companies that seek out vet- January 3, 2017, of the following indi- H.R. 947, the Boosting Rates of Amer- erans and give them opportunities to viduals on the part of the House to the ican Veteran Employment Act, or bring their unique skills, training, and United States-China Economic and Se- BRAVE Act. experience to the civilian workforce. curity Review Commission for a term I thank the vice chairman for his Second, it will create an incentive expiring on December 31, 2018: kind words on this bill, and I especially for other companies to do the same and Mr. Larry Wortzel, Williamsburg, would like to thank the gentlewoman bring more veterans into their work- Virginia from New York (Miss RICE), an unwav- force. Mr. Robert Glenn Hubbard, New ering advocate of our veterans and au- Most importantly, as more and more York, New York thor of this smart piece of legislation. companies hire more and more vet- f Both parties agree it is unacceptable erans, they will ultimately see that in- APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUALS that men and women returning home vesting in veterans is good for busi- TO THE CREATING OPTIONS FOR from our most recent conflicts don’t ness. That is the real incentive here. It VETERANS’ EXPEDITED RECOV- have good, reliable jobs waiting for is not just an advantage in securing ERY COMMISSION them. We can start right here in the Federal contracts; it is getting the ben- Federal Government. The VA estab- efit of employees who have worn the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The lishes long-term contracts with private uniform, who have been trained by the Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- companies for medical equipment, con- greatest military in the world, and who pointment, pursuant to section 931(c) struction, supplies, services, and more. have learned to get the job done, no of the Comprehensive Addiction and Currently, the VA gives preferences matter what that job is. Recovery Act of 2016 (Pub. L. 114–198), to veteran-owned small businesses. We need more businesses in the pri- and the order of the House of January That is great. What this piece of legis- vate sector to recognize the value of in- 3, 2017, of the following individuals on lation does is expand this contracting vesting in the men and women who the part of the House to the Creating preference to allow the VA Secretary have served our country. It is not an Options for Veterans’ Expedited Recov- to give a preference to companies that act of charity. Veterans are not look- ery Commission: actively search out and employ vet- ing for a handout; they just need an op- Captain John M. Rose, U.S. Navy, Re- erans, a policy that would incentivize portunity. The BRAVE Act will help tired, Kenosha, Wisconsin companies to even hire more veterans. ensure that more veterans have those Lieutenant Colonel Jamil S. Khan, This is already a smart approach for opportunities. U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, Janesville, those companies because veterans I want to thank Chairman ROE of Wisconsin bring to a job the skills they have Tennessee, Vice Chairman BILIRAKIS, f learned over the years and make the and Ranking Member WALZ for sup- APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUAL TO company even stronger. porting this bill and for helping to This bipartisan piece of legislation bring it to the floor today. THE NATIONAL COMMISSION ON adds no cost to the taxpayers. It allows This legislation passed unanimously MILITARY, NATIONAL, AND PUB- for debarment of any company that in the last Congress, and I urge my col- LIC SERVICE knowingly misrepresents its portion of leagues on both sides of the aisle to, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The veteran employees in order to receive once again, give it the bipartisan sup- Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- the contracting preference. port it deserves. pointment, pursuant to section 553(b) The BRAVE Act represents a win-win Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I have no of the National Defense Authorization for the private sector, the Federal Gov- further speakers on my side. Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Pub. L. 114– ernment, and, most importantly, for I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 328), and the order of the House of Jan- our veterans. 974. uary 3, 2017, of the following individual

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.025 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1113 on the part of the House to the Na- (Rept. No. 115–11) on the resolution (H. Cicilline Heck McSally Clark (MA) Hensarling Meadows tional Commission on Military, Na- Res. 116) providing for consideration of Clarke (NY) Herrera Beutler Meehan tional, and Public Service: the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 66) dis- Clay Hice, Jody B. Meng Mr. Thomas Kilgannon, Centreville, approving the rule submitted by the Cleaver Higgins (LA) Messer Virginia Department of Labor relating to sav- Clyburn Higgins (NY) Mitchell Coffman Hill Moolenaar f ings arrangements established by Cohen Himes Mooney (WV) States for non-governmental employ- APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUALS Cole Holding Mullin ees, and providing for consideration of Collins (GA) Hollingsworth Murphy (FL) TO THE MEDAL OF VALOR RE- the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 67) dis- Collins (NY) Hoyer Murphy (PA) VIEW BOARD Comer Hudson Nadler approving the rule submitted by the Comstock Huffman Napolitano The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Department of Labor relating to sav- Conaway Huizenga Neal Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- ings arrangements established by Connolly Hultgren Newhouse pointment, pursuant to section 3(b) of qualified State political subdivisions Conyers Hunter Noem the Public Safety Officer Medal of Cook Hurd Nolan for non-governmental employees, Cooper Issa Norcross Valor Act of 2001 (42 U.S.C. 15202), and which was referred to the House Cal- Correa Jackson Lee Nunes the order of the House of January 3, endar and ordered to be printed. Costa Jayapal O’Halleran 2017, of the following individuals on the Costello (PA) Jeffries O’Rourke f Courtney Jenkins (WV) Olson part of the House to the Medal of Valor Cramer Johnson (GA) Palazzo Review Board for a term of 4 years: ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Crawford Johnson (LA) Pallone Mr. Brandon Clabes, Choctaw, Okla- PRO TEMPORE Crist Johnson (OH) Palmer Crowley Johnson, E. B. Panetta homa The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. Brian Murphy, Milwaukee, Wis- Cuellar Johnson, Sam Pascrell ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Culberson Jones Paulsen consin will resume on motions to suspend the Cummings Jordan Payne f Curbelo (FL) Joyce (OH) Pearce rules previously postponed. Davidson Kaptur Pelosi APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUAL TO Votes will be taken in the following Davis (CA) Katko Perlmutter THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF order: Davis, Danny Keating Perry H.R. 244, by the yeas and nays; Davis, Rodney Kelly (IL) Peters THE AMERICAN FOLKLIFE CEN- DeFazio Kelly (MS) Peterson TER IN THE LIBRARY OF CON- H.R. 974, by the yeas and nays. DeGette Kelly (PA) Pocan GRESS The first electronic vote will be con- DeLauro Kennedy Poe (TX) DelBene Khanna Poliquin The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ducted as a 15-minute vote. The second electronic vote will be conducted as a Demings Kihuen Polis Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- Denham Kildee Posey pointment, pursuant to 20 U.S.C. 5-minute vote. Dent Kilmer Price (NC) DeSantis Kind Quigley 2103(b), and the order of the House of f DeSaulnier King (IA) Raskin January 3, 2017, of the following indi- HONORING INVESTMENTS IN RE- DesJarlais King (NY) Ratcliffe vidual to the Board of Trustees of the Deutch Kinzinger Reed CRUITING AND EMPLOYING American Folklife Center in the Li- Diaz-Balart Knight Reichert AMERICAN MILITARY VETERANS Dingell Krishnamoorthi Renacci brary of Congress on the part of the ACT OF 2017 Doggett Kuster (NH) Rice (NY) House for a term of 6 years: Donovan Kustoff (TN) Rice (SC) Ms. Patricia A. Atkinson, Carson The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Doyle, Michael Labrador Richmond City, Nevada finished business is the vote on the mo- F. LaHood Roby Duffy Lamborn Roe (TN) f tion to suspend the rules and pass the Duncan (SC) Lance Rogers (AL) bill (H.R. 244) to encourage effective, Duncan (TN) Langevin Rogers (KY) RECESS voluntary private sector investments Dunn Larsen (WA) Rohrabacher The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- to recruit, employ, and retain men and Emmer Larson (CT) Rokita Engel Latta Rooney, Francis ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair women who have served in the United Eshoo Lawrence Rooney, Thomas declares the House in recess until ap- States military with annual presi- Espaillat Lawson (FL) J. proximately 6:30 p.m. today. dential awards to private sector em- Esty Lee Ros-Lehtinen Evans Levin Rosen Accordingly (at 5 o’clock and 23 min- ployers recognizing such efforts, and Farenthold Lewis (GA) Roskam utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. for other purposes, as amended, on Ferguson Lewis (MN) Ross f which the yeas and nays were ordered. Fitzpatrick Lieu, Ted Rothfus The Clerk read the title of the bill. Fleischmann Lipinski Rouzer b 1830 Flores LoBiondo Roybal-Allard The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Fortenberry Loebsack Royce (CA) AFTER RECESS question is on the motion offered by Foster Lofgren Ruiz the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- Foxx Long Ruppersberger The recess having expired, the House Frankel (FL) Loudermilk Russell was called to order by the Speaker pro RAKIS) that the House suspend the rules Franks (AZ) Love Rutherford tempore (Mr. WOODALL) at 6 o’clock and pass the bill, as amended. Frelinghuysen Lowenthal Ryan (OH) and 30 minutes p.m. The vote was taken by electronic de- Fudge Lowey Sa´ nchez vice, and there were—yeas 409, nays 1, Gabbard Lucas Sanford f Gaetz Luetkemeyer Sarbanes not voting 21, as follows: Gallagher Lujan Grisham, Scalise REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- [Roll No. 86] Garrett M. Schakowsky VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF Gibbs Luja´ n, Ben Ray Schiff YEAS—409 H.J. RES. 66, DISAPPROVING Gohmert Lynch Schneider Abraham Bilirakis Bucshon Gonzalez (TX) MacArthur Schrader RULE SUBMITTED BY DEPART- Adams Bishop (GA) Budd Goodlatte Maloney, Schweikert MENT OF LABOR RELATING TO Aderholt Bishop (MI) Burgess Gosar Carolyn B. Scott (VA) SAVINGS ARRANGEMENTS BY Aguilar Bishop (UT) Bustos Gottheimer Maloney, Sean Scott, Austin STATES FOR NON-GOVERN- Allen Black Butterfield Gowdy Marchant Scott, David Amodei Blackburn Byrne Granger Marino Sensenbrenner MENTAL EMPLOYEES, AND PRO- Arrington Blum Calvert Graves (GA) Marshall Serrano VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF Babin Blumenauer Capuano Graves (LA) Massie Sessions H.J. RES. 67, DISAPPROVING Bacon Blunt Rochester Carbajal Graves (MO) Mast Sewell (AL) Banks (IN) Bonamici Ca´ rdenas Green, Al Matsui Shea-Porter RULE SUBMITTED BY DEPART- Barletta Bost Carson (IN) Green, Gene McCarthy Sherman MENT OF LABOR RELATING TO Barr Brady (PA) Carter (GA) Griffith McClintock Shimkus SAVINGS ARRANGEMENTS BY Barraga´ n Brady (TX) Carter (TX) Grijalva McCollum Shuster QUALIFIED STATE POLITICAL Barton Brat Cartwright Grothman McEachin Simpson Bass Bridenstine Castor (FL) Guthrie McGovern Sinema SUBDIVISIONS FOR NON-GOVERN- Beatty Brooks (AL) Castro (TX) Hanabusa McHenry Sires MENTAL EMPLOYEES Bera Brooks (IN) Chabot Harper McKinley Slaughter Bergman Brown (MD) Chaffetz Harris McMorris Smith (MO) Mr. BYRNE, from the Committee on Beyer Brownley (CA) Cheney Hartzler Rodgers Smith (NE) Rules, submitted a privileged report Biggs Buck Chu, Judy Hastings McNerney Smith (NJ)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.026 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1114 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 Smith (TX) Tonko Wasserman every adventure, every budget, every RYAN says family is important to her. Smith (WA) Torres Schultz run for office. So much of what we have Family is important to all of us, and Smucker Trott Watson Coleman Soto Tsongas Weber (TX) accomplished has been because of her— this is a family. It is sometimes a con- Speier Turner Webster (FL) because of her leadership, because of tentious family, but it is a family. Stefanik Upton Wenstrup her planning, because of her caring na- Frankly, the peacemakers in the Stewart Valadao Westerman ture, because of her deep understanding family are largely the members of the Stivers Vargas Williams Suozzi of how this place works. She really is a Veasey Wilson (FL) staff, particularly the highest ranking Swalwell (CA) Vela Wilson (SC) person of the House. staffers, and particularly those staffers Takano ´ Wittman Above all, she never, ever forgot and Taylor Velazquez who have been with each of us and Tenney Visclosky Womack never let me forget whom I was work- many of us for a significant period of Thompson (CA) Wagner Woodall ing for: the people of the First District time. They understand the tensions Thompson (MS) Walberg Yarmuth of Wisconsin. She is from Wisconsin. Yoder that can be created, but they also un- Thompson (PA) Walden She is from Franklin, Wisconsin, which Thornberry Walker Yoho derstand that there is a responsibility Tiberi Walorski Young (AK) is a small town in southern Wisconsin, to the American people. Every time I Tipton Walters, Mimi Young (IA) near Milwaukee. She is a Badger. Wis- went across the aisle and talked to Titus Walz Zeldin consin is so much at the heart of who Joyce Meyer, I knew that she under- NAYS—1 she is. She knows when the deer rut is. stood that and that she wanted to be a Amash She knows that, on Sundays, there are positive force in making this institu- only two things you do: Mass and NOT VOTING—21 tion work better. Packers games in the fall. For all of Let me say that Joyce Meyer now Boyle, Brendan Gutie´rrez Pingree her years here, she never forgot where F. Jenkins (KS) Pittenger has an even bigger responsibility be- Buchanan LaMalfa she came from. cause she is going to the White House. Rush The truth is we have been through it Delaney McCaul Waters, Maxine May we all wish her the best in making Ellison Meeks Welch all together. In fact, she has not just that institution work better. Faso Moore Zinke been a confidant or a friend—she is Gallego Moulton Joyce, God bless you and Godspeed. Garamendi Mulvaney family. I often refer to her as my sis- ter; and, to Joyce, family is at the cen- f b 1854 ter of everything. She treated all of our BOOSTING RATES OF AMERICAN Mrs. DEMINGS, Mr. BUCK, Ms. ROY- staff like family. She hosted wedding VETERAN EMPLOYMENT ACT BAL-ALLARD, and Mr. HUFFMAN showers and baby showers. She made changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to sure that everyone on our team put The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without ‘‘yea.’’ their own loved ones first. It is her own objection, 5-minute voting will con- So (two-thirds being in the affirma- family that, through all of these years, tinue. tive) the rules were suspended and the has really been her source of inspira- There was no objection. bill, as amended, was passed. tion: her parents; her sisters; her hus- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- The result of the vote was announced band, Don, who, himself, was part of finished business is the vote on the mo- as above recorded. our team; and, of course, their beau- tion to suspend the rules and pass the The title of the bill was amended so tiful and sweet daughter, Eva. bill (H.R. 974) to amend title 38, United as to read: ‘‘A bill to encourage effec- I know it is for a better life for Eva States Code, to authorize the Secretary tive, voluntary investments to recruit, and her generation that Joyce has of Veterans Affairs, in awarding a con- employ, and retain men and women made serving government her life’s tract for the procurement of goods or who have served in the United States work. She could have gone on and done services, to give a preference to military with annual Federal awards to something so much more rewarding to offerors that employ veterans, on employers recognizing such efforts, and the pocketbook, but she is doing this which the yeas and nays were ordered. for other purposes.’’. because she believes in our country. The Clerk read the title of the bill. A motion to reconsider was laid on I will cut this short because, for any- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The one who knows Joyce, she does not like the table. question is on the motion offered by attention; she does not like the fuss. the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- f She is here to serve. She is the best of RAKIS) that the House suspend the rules THANKING JOYCE MEYER what we aspire to in public service. and pass the bill. (Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin asked and This woman has done so much to make This will be a 5-minute vote. was given permission to address the us successful, has done so much to The vote was taken by electronic de- make me successful. I just want to House for 1 minute.) vice, and there were—yeas 407, nays 0, thank, from the bottom of my heart, a Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, not voting 24, as follows: person who has done so much to make all of us have people in our lives, in [Roll No. 87] this House successful, and she is Joyce these vocations, without whom none of YEAS—407 Meyer. this would be possible. Today, I want Abraham Blumenauer Castro (TX) Joyce, I wish you and your family Adams Blunt Rochester Chabot to say good luck and good-bye to one of the best of luck. Thank you for serving those people. Aderholt Bonamici Chaffetz us so much. Joyce, you are always Aguilar Bost Cheney Joyce Meyer, whom many of you going to be considered a person of the Allen Brady (PA) Chu, Judy Amash Brady (TX) Cicilline know on my staff, is heading to the House of Representatives. Thank you White House after being with me in Amodei Brat Clark (MA) so much, Joyce. Arrington Bridenstine Clarke (NY) this office for 18 years—and, yes, there And there is her mom. Babin Brooks (AL) Clay are some gray hairs here. She and I go Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Bacon Brooks (IN) Cleaver back even further than that. Banks (IN) Brown (MD) Clyburn from Maryland (Mr. HOYER). Barletta Brownley (CA) Coffman Joyce and I started off as staffers to- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Barr Buck Cohen gether in the United States Senate. In Speaker RYAN for yielding. He admon- Barraga´ n Bucshon Cole many ways, we grew up together. We ished us to be brief. So, Joyce, I will be Barton Budd Collins (GA) were just kids then, fresh out of col- Bass Burgess Collins (NY) brief. Beatty Bustos Comer lege. She went by Joyce Yamat in Often I rise on this floor when we Bera Butterfield Comstock those days. She was a good friend, but have extraordinary staffers retire on Bergman Byrne Conaway she was an equally good staffer, which either side of the aisle, Republican or Beyer Calvert Connolly Biggs Capuano Conyers is why she was, at that time, one of the Democrat, and observe what an ex- Bilirakis Carbajal Cook first people I asked to come work with traordinary difference they make to Bishop (GA) Ca´ rdenas Cooper me when I, at 28 years old, got elected the comity that does, in fact, exist but Bishop (MI) Carson (IN) Correa to the House of Representatives. Bishop (UT) Carter (GA) Costa is rarely seen by the public. Black Carter (TX) Costello (PA) She has been at the heart of our team Joyce Meyer has been an extraor- Blackburn Cartwright Courtney ever since—through every up and down, dinary member of our family. Speaker Blum Castor (FL) Cramer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.011 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1115 Crawford Johnson (OH) Panetta Valadao Walters, Mimi Wilson (SC) both for such a tremendous achieve- Crist Johnson, E. B. Pascrell Vargas Walz Wittman ment. Crowley Johnson, Sam Paulsen Veasey Wasserman Womack Cuellar Jones Payne Vela Schultz Woodall f Culberson Jordan Pearce Vela´ zquez Watson Coleman Yarmuth Cummings Joyce (OH) Pelosi Visclosky Weber (TX) Yoder b 1915 Curbelo (FL) Kaptur Perlmutter Wagner Webster (FL) Yoho Davidson Katko Perry Walberg Wenstrup Young (AK) DRAINING THE SWAMP Walden Westerman Davis (CA) Keating Peters Young (IA) Walker Williams (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given Davis, Danny Kelly (IL) Peterson Zeldin Davis, Rodney Kelly (MS) Pittenger Walorski Wilson (FL) permission to address the House for 1 DeFazio Kelly (PA) Pocan NOT VOTING—24 minute.) DeGette Kennedy Poe (TX) Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, President DeLauro Khanna Poliquin Boyle, Brendan Gutie´rrez Pingree DelBene Kihuen Polis F. Jenkins (KS) Ratcliffe Trump said he was going to drain the Demings Kildee Posey Buchanan LaMalfa Rush swamp. Denham Kilmer Price (NC) Delaney McCaul Shuster Really? Dent Kind Quigley Duncan (TN) Meeks Waters, Maxine His actions speak louder than words. DeSantis King (IA) Raskin Ellison Messer Welch Check the facts. Wall Street’s gold dig- DeSaulnier King (NY) Reed Faso Moore Zinke DesJarlais Kinzinger Reichert Gallego Moulton gers are in charge of the swamp al- Deutch Knight Renacci Garamendi Mulvaney ready. Diaz-Balart Krishnamoorthi Rice (NY) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE The President’s senior strategist, Dingell Kuster (NH) Rice (SC) Doggett Kustoff (TN) Richmond The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Steve Bannon, spent half a decade Donovan Labrador Roby the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- working at Goldman Sachs. Trump’s Doyle, Michael LaHood Roe (TN) ing. National Economic Council Director, F. Lamborn Rogers (AL) Gary Cohn, spent 25 years more there. Duffy Lance Rogers (KY) b 1911 Duncan (SC) Langevin Rohrabacher He rose to be Goldman Sachs’ presi- Dunn Larsen (WA) Rokita So (two-thirds being in the affirma- dent. Trump’s Senior Counsel for Eco- Emmer Larson (CT) Rooney, Francis tive) the rules were suspended and the nomic Initiatives, Dina Powell, was a Engel Latta Rooney, Thomas bill was passed. Eshoo Lawrence J. partner since 2010 at Goldman Sachs. Espaillat Lawson (FL) Ros-Lehtinen The result of the vote was announced Steve Mnuchin, up for a vote tonight Esty Lee Rosen as above recorded. for Treasury Secretary, spent 17 years Evans Levin Roskam A motion to reconsider was laid on at Goldman. Dubbed the ‘‘Foreclosure Farenthold Lewis (GA) Ross Ferguson Lewis (MN) Rothfus the table. King,’’ Mnuchin was the fast-buck art- Fitzpatrick Lieu, Ted Rouzer PERSONAL EXPLANATION ist who maneuvered OneWest out of Fleischmann Lipinski Roybal-Allard Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, my apologies for IndyMac’s collapse with shady tactics Flores LoBiondo Royce (CA) that kicked hundreds of thousands of Fortenberry Loebsack Ruiz not being able to be present for today’s re- Foster Lofgren Ruppersberger corded votes. My flight from ALB to DCA was families out of their homes in Ohio and Foxx Long Russell cancelled due to a winter storm, and I could beyond. Mnuchin is the ultimate Frankel (FL) Loudermilk Rutherford make no other flight that would have gotten swamp dweller. His father worked at Franks (AZ) Love Ryan (OH) Frelinghuysen Lowenthal Sa´ nchez me to Washington in time. Had I been Goldman, his brother still works there, Fudge Lowey Sanford present, I would have voted ‘‘yea on rollcall and they all return for alumni engage- Gabbard Lucas Sarbanes No. 86, and ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 87. ments. Gaetz Luetkemeyer Scalise Come now. While millions of Ameri- Gallagher Lujan Grisham, Schakowsky f Garrett M. Schiff cans lost their homes, with millions Gibbs Luja´ n, Ben Ray Schneider HONORING ISRAEL BONDS more underwater today, Goldman in- Gohmert Lynch Schrader (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was creased its profits. It is obvious, Wall Gonzalez (TX) MacArthur Schweikert Street’s trolls have squiggled their way Goodlatte Maloney, Scott (VA) given permission to address the House Gosar Carolyn B. Scott, Austin for 1 minute and to revise and extend through the White House transom even Gottheimer Maloney, Sean Scott, David her remarks.) before the First Lady has remodeled Gowdy Marchant Sensenbrenner Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I the living quarters. Granger Marino Serrano Graves (GA) Marshall Sessions am so honored that the gentleman When Wall Street rigs our economy Graves (LA) Massie Sewell (AL) from Maryland (Mr. HOYER) is here to again, does anyone seriously expect Graves (MO) Mast Shea-Porter listen to this important 1 minute, as he President Trump to drain the swamp? Green, Al Matsui Sherman He is fast in it with them. Green, Gene McCarthy Shimkus always does. Griffith McClintock Simpson Israel Bonds recently hosted its an- f Grijalva McCollum Sinema nual award ceremony at the Fontaine- Grothman McEachin Sires bleau Hotel located in Miami Beach, in CAREER AND TECHNICAL Guthrie McGovern Slaughter EDUCATION MONTH Hanabusa McHenry Smith (MO) my congressional district. Harper McKinley Smith (NE) For over 30 years, Mr. Speaker, Israel (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania Harris McMorris Smith (NJ) Bonds has honored members of the asked and was given permission to ad- Hartzler Rodgers Smith (TX) Hastings McNerney Smith (WA) Jewish community from all over the dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Heck McSally Smucker country who have made an incredible vise and extend his remarks.) Hensarling Meadows Soto impact on the U.S.-Israel relationship Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Herrera Beutler Meehan Speier and who have helped make Israel’s Mr. Speaker, February is Career and Hice, Jody B. Meng Stefanik Higgins (LA) Mitchell Stewart economy one of the world’s strongest. Technical Education Month. Higgins (NY) Moolenaar Stivers I have had the privilege of working As co-chairman of the Career and Hill Mooney (WV) Suozzi with Israel Bonds over the years and Technical Education Caucus, and as a Himes Mullin Swalwell (CA) Holding Murphy (FL) Takano the many individuals who helped make senior member of the Committee on Hollingsworth Murphy (PA) Taylor its mission such a success. Education and the Workforce, I have Hoyer Nadler Tenney One of those individuals, who I know long been aware of the importance of Hudson Napolitano Thompson (CA) is a friend of the gentleman from Mary- CTE programs that provide learners of Huffman Neal Thompson (MS) Huizenga Newhouse Thompson (PA) land (Mr. HOYER), Alex Halberstein, all ages with career-ready skills. Hultgren Noem Thornberry was honored with the Israel69 Award From agriculture to the arts, from Hunter Nolan Tiberi for his commitment to strengthening marketing to manufacturing, CTE pro- Hurd Norcross Tipton Issa Nunes Titus the economy of the democratic Jewish grams work to develop America’s most Jackson Lee O’Halleran Tonko State of Israel. valuable resource—its people. Jayapal O’Rourke Torres Mr. Speaker, Alex is the chairman of CTE is taught in a range of settings, Jeffries Olson Trott Israel Bonds for south Florida. Alex from high schools and area technical Jenkins (WV) Palazzo Tsongas Johnson (GA) Pallone Turner and his wife, Monique, are deserving of centers, to technical and 2-year com- Johnson (LA) Palmer Upton such a high honor. I congratulate them munity colleges. In total, 12.5 million

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE7.012 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1116 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 high school and college students are honor the memory of Nick Littlefield, HONORING THE RICHMOND FREE enrolled in CTE programs across the a dear friend and dedicated public serv- PRESS Nation. ant who passed away last week. (Mr. MCEACHIN asked and was given Last Congress, I was proud to intro- Few in our country could match permission to address the House for 1 duce the Strengthening Career and Nick’s career. From the stages of minute.) Technical Education for the 21st Cen- Broadway to classrooms at Harvard Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise tury Act. This bill, which passed the Law School, to courtrooms in New today to recognize the Richmond Free House by a vote of 405–5, aimed to close York City, and eventually to the Halls Press, an independent, Black-owned the skills gap by modernizing the Fed- of this Capitol as an aide to my late weekly newspaper that recently cele- eral investment in CTE programs and uncle, Senator Ted Kennedy, Nick did brated its 25th anniversary. connecting educators with industry it all. The newspaper was founded by Ray- stakeholders. Always guided by the simple prin- mond H. Boone, a former Howard Uni- I look forward to reintroducing simi- ciple that our laws should help protect versity associate professor and reporter lar legislation this Congress and I re- our citizens, his fingerprints can be who tirelessly served as editor and pub- main committed to working with the found on landmark legislation such as lisher until his death in June of 2014. gentleman from Rhode Island (Mr. the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- The Richmond Free Press serves as a LANGEVIN), my CTE Caucus co-chair gram, the Americans with Disabilities voice for all people and, since its incep- and good friend, to improve our Na- Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, tion, has altered the media landscape tion’s career and technical education and the 1996 minimum wage increase. of Richmond, the former Capital of the system. Every day that he arrived at his Sen- Confederacy. The paper has positively f ate office, he brought a contagious en- impacted the community through its thusiasm for his work and extraor- news stories and its editorials. CAREER AND TECHNICAL dinary empathy for the people he Through the leadership of Mrs. Jean EDUCATION MONTH served. Even while battling the mul- Patterson Boone, advertising director (Mr. LANGEVIN asked and was given tiple system atrophy that ultimately and wife of the late founder, Raymond permission to address the House for 1 cost him his life, he considered himself Boone, this is an award-winning publi- minute and to revise and extend his re- ‘‘not entirely unlucky’’ to have this cation. Not only has the Richmond marks.) disease because it allowed him to Free Press been a source of informa- Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I am ‘‘truly sympathize’’ with those who had tion for 25 years, but it has been a pil- so pleased to join the gentleman from disabilities. lar in our community. Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON), my Nothing was ever more important to Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate that friend and co-chair of the Career and him than his family. In this difficult this recognition come during Black Technical Education Caucus, to recog- time, my thoughts and prayers are History Month, for the Richmond Free nize February as Career and Technical with Nick’s incredible wife, Jenny, as Press does not only chronicle history, Education Month. well as his stepchildren Frank, Tom, it has made history for the last 25 In Rhode Island and across the coun- and Kate. years. try right now, employers are strug- f f gling to find workers with the skills BLACK HISTORY MONTH that they need to fill jobs in STEM, in NATIONAL HEALTH AND (Mr. LAWSON of Florida asked and manufacturing, in IT, and so many WELLNESS COACH RECOGNITION was given permission to address the other skilled trades. Hundreds of thou- WEEK House for 1 minute.) (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given sands of high-skilled, high-paying jobs Mr. LAWSON of Florida. Mr. Speak- are open right now, going unfilled, and permission to address the House for 1 er, I rise today in honor of Black His- this number is growing. minute and to revise and extend his re- tory Month. It is especially meaningful To close the skills gap, we must bet- marks.) to me this year as I am so proud to ter align education and industry to Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I am glad have the honor to represent the great make sure that what we are teaching to join my colleague, Congressman people of Florida’s Fifth Congressional in classrooms is better meeting the MARKWAYNE MULLIN today in intro- District. needs of real-world companies right ducing a resolution designating the Now, more than ever, it is incumbent now. We must increase work-based week of February 13 as National Health upon all of us to work to ensure we are learning and build education pathways and Wellness Coach Recognition Week. protecting our beacons of democracy to help students become career and col- Lifestyle-related chronic diseases are within our government institutions, lege-ready. causing a health crisis in this country. from maintaining a vigilant and re- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Chronic diseases are the leading cause sponsive Department of Justice, to a support investment in CTE in the 115th of preventable deaths and disabilities, robust Department of Health and Congress, including by reauthorizing and they cost the U.S. economy more Human Services, to ensuring that our the Carl D. Perkins Career and Tech- than $1 trillion per year. Department of Education is advancing nical Education Act to adapt our work- This crisis is so severe that the Cen- public education and protecting our force to the 21st century economy. ters for Disease Control and Prevention Historically Black Colleges and Uni- Mr. Speaker, this act passed with has deemed chronic disease to be ‘‘the versities. strong, bipartisan support in the last public health challenge of the 21st cen- One African-American who left a Congress, and I hope we can quickly tury.’’ lasting legacy in education in Florida bring it up again to pass it with strong We can reduce lifestyle-related is John G. Riley, who was born a slave bipartisan support in this Congress as chronic disease and end this crisis, but in 1857 and who died as a millionaire in well. that means improving and sustaining 1954. Riley was a schoolteacher in I thank the gentleman from Pennsyl- health-related behaviors. That is where Wakulla County, near Tallahassee, and vania (Mr. THOMPSON) for his leader- the health coaches come in. They step later became the principal of Lincoln ship. in to fill the gap between healthcare Academy in Tallahassee, Florida, serv- f provider recommendations and sustain- ing the community as an educator for able lifestyle changes. By helping to 49 years. HONORING THE MEMORY OF NICK improve individual health and Riley was also the first African- LITTLEFIELD wellness, health coaches get to the root American in Tallahassee to own prop- (Mr. KENNEDY asked and was given of this Nation’s health crisis. erty at the turn of the century. Today, permission to address the House for 1 I want to give my deepest thanks to we can all visit the John G. Riley Mu- minute and to revise and extend his re- the health and wellness coaches who seum for African American History and marks.) are making the people of this Nation Culture to learn more about his con- Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, I rise healthier. We should all support them tributions to the fabric of African- this evening with a heavy heart to in their efforts. American history.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.034 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1117 In Jacksonville, we celebrate Mary able to come, and those who were hov- medicine in the U.S.; Dr. Daniel Hale Littlejohn Singleton, who became the ering and sheltering could dial 911 on Williams owned the first Black-owned first Black woman elected to the City their cell phones. hospital and is credited with the first Council in Jacksonville, Florida, and So today I want to join with the law successful heart surgery performed by then elevated herself to be elected to enforcement coalition who are working an African American; Dr. Charles the Florida Legislature, the first one with former Congresswoman Gabby Drew—many have heard of him—re- since the Reconstruction era. Sin- Giffords and Mark Kelly, who are nowned for his research during World gleton paved the way for other Black standing up against legislation that War II which allowed for us to better women to follow in her footsteps in the would deregulate and allow civilians to understand blood plasma and its stor- Florida Legislature, like former Con- buy silencers. age for transfusions. More recently, Dr. gresswoman Carrie Meek, and our col- It indicates that the gun lobby ap- Regina Benjamin became the first league, FREDERICA WILSON, who serves plauds introduction of the Hearing Pro- Black woman elected to the American now with us today. tection Act. A quote in an article says Medical Association Board of Trustees It is stories like John G. Riley’s and many gun owners and sportsmen suffer and was appointed the 18th surgeon Singleton’s and countless others that severe hearing loss after years of general by President Barack Obama in remind me to work and lead us ahead shooting. Yet, the tool necessary to re- 2009. in the future. We must think dif- duce such loss is onerously neglected Each of these medical pioneers broke ferently and act differently to affect and taxed. barriers for the betterment of the com- change by working together to help our What about the law enforcement offi- munity, and each worked to use tools fellow men and women. cers who will suffer at the hands of of their profession to improve the I am committed to standing with the those who want to do us harm with si- health of each patient they treat and Congressional Black Caucus and to lencers on their guns? What will hap- also for future generations. The Secretary of Health and Human keep the fight for equality for all pen to those who will be murdered in Services shared similar responsibil- Americans. the streets? What about them and their ities, but on a much, much wider scale, families? f Mr. Speaker. The agency, as you know, This is a legislation misdirected. CELEBRATING THE 60TH BIRTH- of HHS is tasked with enhancing and This is a legislation that is unfortu- DAY OF OVERSEER ELVIS L. protecting the health of all American nate. I join with my fellow Americans BOWMAN citizens. However, the recent appoint- and law enforcement officers, first re- (Mr. VEASEY asked and was given ment of Dr. Tom Price as HHS Sec- sponders, in standing up against a non- retary threatens to roll back the permission to address the House for 1 sensical and misdirected initiative. minute.) progress pioneered by Black medical Let’s stand with those who are to professions and the progress made Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise protect us and let’s protect our fami- today to celebrate the 60th birthday of under President Barack Obama. lies and not support this legislation. Dr. Price, as many of you know and my good friend, overseer Elvis L. Bow- f as has been documented and seen on man, the senior pastor of the Greater television on the cable news shows, was Mt. Tabor Christian Center in my b 1930 very hostile, extremely hostile, and hometown of Fort Worth, Texas. BLACK HISTORY MONTH openly hostile to the Affordable Care Pastor Bowman was born February Act during the time that he was in 23, 1957, and became a lifelong member The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. FITZPATRICK). Under the Speaker’s an- Congress, despite the law ultimately of Greater Mt. Tabor Christian Center extending health insurance for close to and their congregation; and the church nounced policy of January 3, 2017, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. VEASEY) is 20 million Americans who didn’t have was founded by his father, E.L. Bow- it before. That is what is so amazing man. recognized for 60 minutes as the des- ignee of the minority leader. that a doctor would take that view. Pastor Bowman graduated from the Because of the ACA, 2.3 million Afri- Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask University of Texas in Arlington with a can Americans between the ages of 18 unanimous consent that all Members bachelor’s degree in business and a and 64 gained coverage, and the unin- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- minor in music. He has since used his sured rate, among African Americans, tend their remarks and to include any education to serve the congregation in fell by nearly 7 percent. In the district extraneous material in the RECORD. so many wonderful ways. that I represent, 47,000 more residents The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there An accomplished musician, Pastor now have coverage thanks to the ACA. Bowman served as a staff musician objection to the request of the gen- And for the district that I represent, under his father before being appointed tleman from Texas? that is pretty significant. minister of music in 1974. He then There was no objection. People hear a lot about the Texas served as the Church business manager Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, W. E. B. miracle and about all the jobs and the before he was appointed pastor in 2002. Du Bois is quoted as saying: ‘‘The cost economic growth in the State of Texas. He was later elevated to full gospel dis- of liberty is the less than the price of Despite living in Dallas-Fort Worth— trict overseer of Tarrant County in repression.’’ And the cost of liberty has one of the most vibrant economies in 2008. come at a steep price for members of the entire world, quite frankly—it had Pastor Bowman, I wish you happy the Black community. But despite this the highest uninsured rate out of any birthday, my friend, on your 60th birth- immense challenge the Black commu- congressional district in the country. day. I wish you nothing but health and nity has faced, our resiliency is what It is a shame that, with that type of happiness. Please enjoy your special we celebrate every month during Black prosperity, we would have such a large day. History Month. group of people—over 1 million people f Every February, we get together to collectively when you include people talk about it, highlight it, and share outside of the district that I rep- LEGISLATION TO DEREGULATE with school children, friends, and fam- resent—in the Dallas-Fort Worth GUN SILENCERS ily the accomplishments of the men metroplex who don’t have insurance. It (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was and women who changed the course of is really a shame. We cannot let the given permission to address the House American history. We thank these pio- progress forged by African-American for 1 minute.) neers for expanding what we believed trailblazers be undermined by a Sec- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, on possible and use them as an inspiration retary of Health and Human Services a warm Sunday morning, yesterday, for the fight that remains. who does not see how expanding six men in a blue truck and six men in There have been so many African- healthcare access can help better a black truck began shooting along American pioneers in every field, in- health outcomes for African Ameri- Griggs Road. Women and children fled. cluding medicine. Dr. James McCune cans. Families fled in fear of their lives. Be- Smith was the first African American Similarly, in an area of history cause of the gunshot noise, police were to earn a medical degree and practice where we saw historic tenures of both

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.036 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch as At- comes to the right of suffrage, the plishments of black Americans.’’ There torneys General, the recent confirma- right to vote that we hold so precious— is a lot of talk about health care these tion of Jeff Sessions as Attorney Gen- that all of us are worried about. days, and in no area has the contribu- eral is very troubling and really a bla- But Mrs. King went on to describe tions of African Americans been more tant reminder that we must remain why she believes Jeff Sessions would do neglected and dishonored as much as in vigilant for those who would like to irreparable harm to her husband’s civil the field of health care. turn back the clock on the civil rights rights legacy. ‘‘The exercise of the How many people are aware of the progress that African Americans franchise,’’ she states, ‘‘is an essential contributions of Charles Drew who un- fought and died for, particularly when means by which our citizens ensure locked the secrets that led to the abil- you start talking about voter fraud. that those who are governing will be ity to perform blood transfusions; or It seems like right now what we are responsible. My husband called it the Daniel Hale Williams who performed starting to see is the very beginning of number one civil right. The denial of the first successful open-heart surgery; people who are against the gains that access to the ballot box ultimately re- or Samuel Kountz who performed the have been made. They are trying to lay sults in the denial of other funda- first successful kidney transplant not the groundwork so they can go in and mental rights. For, it is only when the done on identical twins? Because of do some really, really serious oppres- poor and disadvantaged are empowered these and many other slights in many sion. And that is absolutely scary just that they are able to participate ac- other fields, Mr. Speaker, I have not al- because that was a chapter in our tively in the solutions to their own ways celebrated this occasion with country’s history that we don’t want to problems. pleasure. During those discussions back in the go back to. ‘‘We still have a long way to go be- We want to know that the new Attor- fore we can say that minorities no late 1960s and early 1970s, I, and many others, felt that the appropriate action ney General is going to be working for longer need be concerned about dis- was not just to expand from 1 week to us and not trying to undermine us crimination at the polls. Blacks, His- a month but to mandate the incorpora- when it comes to people being able to panics, Native Americans and Asian tion of African-Americans’ contribu- exercise their suffrage. And in the Sen- Americans are grossly underrep- tions and achievements throughout the ate Chamber, a very esteemed col- resented at every level of government curricula of all of our schools year league in Congress, Senator WARREN, in America. If we are going to make round. brought much attention to a letter our timeless dream of justice through But, with each passing day, I grow that Coretta Scott King wrote oppos- democracy a reality, we must take more and more appreciative and re- ing Senator Session’s consideration for every step possible to ensure that the spective of a lesson taught in 1 Corin- a Federal judgeship. spirit and intent of the Voting Rights thians 11:13, which I share with you in This Chamber has yet to hear Mrs. Act of 1965 and the 15th Amendment to JIM CLYBURN’s version. ‘‘When I was a King’s words in a letter that she used the Constitution is honored.’’ child, young and inexperienced, I spoke to highlight the brutal harm Sessions And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield with the reasoning and understanding could wreak on voting rights. And if to a Member of this body that is no of a child, but as I grew and matured, you look at her letter, it simply states: stranger when it comes to civil rights, I put those childish thoughts, expres- ‘‘Free exercise of voting rights is so knew Mrs. King, knew many of the key sions, and ways behind me.’’ fundamental to American democracy players and figures, and was a key I have come to understand, Mr. that we cannot tolerate any form of in- player and figure himself, and that is Speaker, that Black History Month is fringement of those rights. Of all the the gentleman from South Carolina. I not only about celebrating past groups who have been disenfranchised would like to recognize our assistant achievements and contributions. It is in our nation’s history, none has strug- leader, JIM CLYBURN, to come and talk also a time for reflection and intro- gled longer or suffered more in the at- on this topic of Black History Month spection. tempt to win the vote than black citi- and some of the things that are so im- b 1945 zens. No group has had access to the portant to our community this month ballot box denied so persistently and and why we are going to continue to Aristotle once intoned: ‘‘A life with- intently.’’ talk about these issues. out contemplation is not worth liv- And Mrs. King continued: ‘‘The ac- Mr. CLYBURN. Thank you very ing.’’ I have spent a lot of introspective tions taken by Mr. Sessions in regards much for yielding to me. moments over the last several weeks. to the 1984 voting fraud prosecutions Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to Over the last several days, I have re- represent just one more technique used join my colleagues and people through- flected on the comments made by Dr. to intimidate black voters and thus out the United States to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr., at the annual deny them this most precious fran- Black History Month. It may come as a meeting of the Medical Committee for surprise to some that Black History chise. The investigations into the ab- Human Rights back in 1966, when he sentee voting process were conducted Month is also celebrated in Canada and said: ‘‘Of all the forms of inequality, only in the black belt counties where the United Kingdom, although they do injustice in health care is the most blacks had finally achieved political so in the United Kingdom in the month shocking and inhumane.’’ power in local government. Whites had of October. That is what was on my mind when I been using the absentee process to Thanks to the hard work and persist- addressed this House on the day that their advantage for years, without inci- ence of Carter G. Woodson and the As- we passed the Patient Protection and dent. Then, when blacks, realizing its sociation for the Study of Negro Life Affordable Care Act. On that occasion, strength, began to use it with success, and History, known today as the Asso- I referred to the Affordable Care Act as criminal investigations were begun.’’ ciation for the Study of African Amer- the civil rights act of the 21st century. Mrs. King went on to state: ‘‘In fact, ican Life and History, the celebration It may seem a bit odd to some to Mr. Sessions sought to punish older of Black history was inaugurated in hear the Affordable Care Act referred black civil rights activists, advisers 1926. In response to Mr. Woodson’s ad- to as a civil rights act, but that is ex- and colleagues of my husband, who had vocacy, it was to be for 1 week, the sec- actly what it is. The Affordable Care been key figures in the civil rights ond week in February, in order to enve- Act outlawed discrimination against movement in the 1960’s. These were lope the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, children with preexisting conditions, persons who, realizing the potential of February 12, and Frederick Douglass, outlawed discrimination against people the absentee vote among blacks, had February 14. with disabilities, and outlawed dis- learned to use the process within the First proposed by students at Kent crimination against women just be- bounds of legality and had taught oth- University in 1969 and 1970, the week cause they are women. ers to do the same.’’ was officially expanded to a month in Mr. Speaker, I want to believe that And that is what I am talking about, 1976. Gerald Ford was President at the we have grown and matured beyond Mr. Speaker, is that sort of attitude, time. When the month was established, where we were when our country al- that sort of hostility towards the Afri- President Ford urged the country to lowed insurance companies to discrimi- can-American community when it ‘‘honor the too-often neglected accom- nate against women with breast cancer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.037 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1119 and men with prostate cancer. I would is a fellow Texan that also knows otherwise, what is your answer to the like to believe, Mr. Speaker, that we about Black history just because so question: Is it now still time to cele- have put behind us the childish prac- much of great Black history in our brate and commemorate Black History tice of kicking children off of their country has been made in Harris Coun- Month? What are you doing about it? family insurance policies as soon as ty, in Houston, Texas. I thank her for I know that Texas is certainly full they turn 21, even if they are still in participating on this very important and rich with history, although our school or have not yet found employ- Special Order hour. schoolbooks do not denote that. In ment. Mr. Speaker, what could be more Ms. JACKSON LEE. Let me thank fact, there was a vigorous fight with childish and immature than allowing my friends and distinguished leaders of the Texas education board on their insurance companies to deny benefits this Special Order, Congressman lack of responsibility in terms of in- to the sick and disabled in order to VEASEY of Texas and Congresswoman sisting on textbooks that had an accu- gain big bonuses and payouts for execu- PLASKETT of the Virgin Islands. rate recounting of Black history. tives? As I begin today, I want to pose a Certainly, we know—I hope that we These arguments are not new. In question that was posed by Eddie know—the names of Congresswoman fact, they are reminiscent of an age-old Chambers. Chambers is a professor of Shirley Chisolm, the first woman Afri- debate. art and art history at the University of can American to run for President; my Fifty years ago, during my years of Texas in Austin. colleague and former predecessor, the student protest, there were those who As I say that, let me respond to Con- Honorable Barbara Jordan, who in the urged us to slow down. You are pushing gressman VEASEY and indicate that we Judiciary Committee said, ‘‘We, the too hard, too fast, they would say. do have a lot of history in Harris Coun- people,’’ and repeated a statement of Some of those who wanted a slower ap- ty, but also in the State of Texas. Also, the importance of the Constitution; ac- proach claimed to be on our side, like I had the privilege of working for the tivists like Harriet Tubman, Rosa those eight White ministers who im- Southern Christian Leadership Con- Parks, and Sojourner Truth. plored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to ference during the leadership of, then, Secretary Hillary Clinton and myself slow down, arguing that Christianity Ralph David Abernathy and met Hosea introduced legislation to put the first took 2,000 years to accomplish all it Williams and many of the foot soldiers American bust, that of Sojourner has. Those ministers believed that the that worked with Dr. King. I can see Truth, in the United States Capitol, escalation of marches and demonstra- the historic perspective that they were where she sits today. Who would have tions to secure civil rights was unwise able to garner by their experience and known her name, had it not been for and untimely. association with this great modern-day the celebration through that legisla- In 1963, while sitting in the Bir- profit, a man who understood that in- tion of over 2,500 women who came to mingham city jail, Dr. King started justice anywhere is injustice every- celebrate the placing of this bust? penning a letter that, of course, he fin- where. Astronaut Mae Jemison still remains ished after leaving jail, but in that let- As I answer the question, I want to the first African-American woman to ter he dealt with the whole issue of cite from Eddie Chambers’ article that go into space. We have mathematicians time. In his letter, Dr. King said: appeared in the Chronicle today. He Catherine G. Johnson, Dorothy ‘‘Time itself is neutral; it can be used said in one of his sentences: ‘‘Is there Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, who I be- either destructively or construc- an important place for a celebration lieve are evidenced in the film ‘‘Hidden tively.’’ that might well appear in some re- Figures.’’ ‘‘Fences’’ is another great He continued: ‘‘More and more I feel spects as anachronistic? movie of great history. We have Maya that the people of ill will have used ‘‘In a word,’’ he said, ‘‘yes.’’ Angelou, Toni Morrison, and Gwen- time much more effectively than the He went on to say: ‘‘As a professor dolyn Brooks. All of these are evidence people of good will. We will have to re- whose classes invariably deal with as- of great people. pent in this generation not merely for pects of African-American history and Or the likes of Ruby Mosley, who the hateful word and actions of the bad African Diaspora history, any moment started with the city of Houston but people but for the appalling silence of of doubt I might have about the valid- was an activist and is an activist in the good people.’’ ity of Black History Month are dis- Acres Homes. Not one thing of good Dr. King continued: ‘‘Human progress pelled once classes begin each semes- news happened in Acres Homes and never rolls in on wheels of inevitably; ter. I am still shocked and saddened at around the city without Ruby Mosley’s it comes through the tireless efforts of the level of ignorance among students great leadership. She is still going. men’’—and, I might add, women— of important events and personalities Barbara Jordan, Mickey Leland, ‘‘willing to be coworkers with God, and that are part of African-American his- Craig Washington, and myself, who without this hard work, time itself be- tory, and consequently, American his- served in this seat in the 18th Congres- comes an ally of the forces of social tory. I don’t, of course, blame my stu- sional District, fought to make sure stagnation. We must use time cre- dents, and this ignorance is by no that seniors had housing, make sure atively, in the knowledge that time is means restricted to students of a par- their Social Security and city services always ripe to do right.’’ ticular ethnicity or cultural back- were there, and standing up to fight for I believe these words ring true today, ground.’’ civil rights. There were so many like in our current situation. Our Nation In other words, he said: ‘‘Widespread Ruby Mosley. All of them should be has waited for nearly a century to find ignorance of Black American history placed in literature to announce their a way to bring all its citizens into the leads to an insufficient grasp of Amer- greatness. healthcare system. The time was ripe ican history.’’ And then, of course, let me say how to do right for the American people. So my few words tonight will explain proud I am to have a father by the Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank or highlight the fact that this is a need name of Ezra C. Jackson, one of the our assistant leader for his comments. for not only African-American History first African-American cartoonists He has such a plethora of information Month, which is February, but it needs working in New York City in the media when it comes to the civil rights move- to be taught throughout the year and of comic books. He was a strange figure ment. He knew Reverend Abernathy integrated into the education of all there. Tragically and unfortunately, as and a lot of figures that aren’t as well students, no matter where they live; the White men begin to return after known, like A. G. Gaston and James and it is shameful testimony that the World War II, the African Americans Farmer from my family’s hometown in books that children are learning from, who worked during that time, since he Marshall, Texas. He is able to bring all the curriculum, is so missing, so lack- was the youngest of four sons—three of that in today and tie it into the rel- ing in the history that is American his- went to World War II—were displaced. evance of what we are working on here tory—African-American history. Racism. But yet I am so proud of him in Congress. My challenge tonight is for those of for being such an astute and brilliant I yield to the gentlewoman from my colleagues who are listening, those artist. So much of his work still re- Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE), a friend here educators in primary and secondary mains, shown in the Smithsonian in its on the House floor from Houston. She education, in colleges, Ivy League and early stages of putting together the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.039 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 National Museum of African American As I close my remarks, I call upon minorities and majority people across History and Culture. this Congress and I call upon this this country. We are alarmed by the re- Also, my father-in-law, Phillip Fer- President to get the wheels back on the cent actions of this administration and guson Lee, one of the Tuskegee Air- White House and begin to recognize the threat those actions pose to the men. Clearly, it began as an experi- that America has always been the com- hard-fought progress of African de- ment to determine whether colored sol- forter in receiving refugees, and it has scendants and minorities in this coun- diers were capable of operating expen- always been a friend of the continent of try. sive and complex combat aircraft but Africa. There are Members of Congress The nomination of Jeff Sessions as ended as an unqualified success, based who have gone to Africa in times of Attorney General for many minorities on the experience of the Tuskegee Air- need, but we have also worked with the across this country was a direct affront men, whose record included 261 aircraft administration, from George Bush to to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther destroyed, 141 aircraft damaged, 15,553 Bill Clinton, to Barack Obama and King, Jr., Stokely Carmichael, our col- combat sorties, and 1,578 missions over many others, who recognized that we league JOHN LEWIS, and the many oth- Italy and north Africa. are connected to the continent of Afri- ers who sacrificed and dedicated their This past weekend, we buried a ca by the very slaves who were brought lives to the civil rights movement and church member of mine, Clyde Alex- here. the right to vote. The concerns ex- ander, who was also a Tuskegee Air- Let us fight for Somalia to survive. I pressed by the great Coretta Scott man. To both of those men, we pay call upon my fellow colleagues to join King 30 years ago about the dubious tribute, and I ask the question: How me in legislation dealing with the star- past of Mr. Sessions with respect to en- many textbooks in America, in school vation here, that we can raise up hu- forcing civil rights laws remain the districts, rural and urban, have the manitarian dollars and efforts to save same for many Americans today. Mr. story about the Tuskegee Airmen? the lives of hundreds of thousands who Speaker, the American Dream was, in Is the question: Do we need to cele- are now on the brink of starving. That fact, made possible by the plight of Af- brate and commemorate Black history? is what this month commemorates, not rican descendants, and we must remain If that is the question, then the answer only the African American history, but vigilant and steadfast in the fight is not only a resounding yes, but what the diaspora of which we are so con- against racial, social, and economic in- are you doing in the academic institu- nected. justice. tions across America to ensure that we Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Speaker, I want to raise another tell the story not of African American the gentlewoman from Texas for shar- area of concern that African Americans history or Black history, but of Amer- ing that great information and talking have, and that is for health care. My ican history? about some of the highlights that district of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Let me finish my remarks by adding Black Americans have made toward home to the first African-American fe- a challenge evidenced in the Los Ange- our story when it comes to African male physician in Congress, my es- les Times. teemed predecessor, Donna One of the things that comes out of American History Month this Feb- Christensen, like many underserved the commemoration of African-Amer- ruary. communities across the country, is ad- ican history is a connection to the di- I now yield to the gentlewoman from versely impacted by disparate health aspora. The Congressional Black Cau- the Virgin Islands, STACY PLASKETT, outcomes. Diabetes, hypertension, cus has been the singular connecting who is here tonight to also talk about along with funding for disease such as force to the diaspora, whether it is to contributions from the part of the the Caribbean; whether it is to the Af- world that she represents. I thank her sickle cell, may be adversely affected rican Brazilians in Brazil who happen for her efforts here tonight and for in this administration. Programs for to be of Nigerian heritage; whether it being part of this Special Order hour. nutrition and preventative health, like is, as I indicated, in the Caribbean, Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, I Temporary Assistance for Needy Fami- where my parents and grandparents thank Congressman MARC VEASEY for lies, or TANF, and Supplemental Nu- came from, from Jamaica; from Pan- assisting me and for being a leader in trition Assistance Programs, or SNAP, ama, where my grandfather worked on this Special Order hour for the Con- provide critical food to the neediest in the Panama Canal. All of this is part of gressional Black Caucus. Of course, I all of our communities, especially the portfolio of the Congressional thank the chair of the Congressional mine, the Virgin Islands, and especially Black Caucus, and I thank our chair- Black Caucus, our friend and colleague, to our children. the Honorable CEDRIC RICHMOND, for Repeal of the Affordable Care Act man, Mr. RICHMOND. his continued leadership of both our would create unhealthy African-Amer- b 2000 caucus and on issues impacting Black ican communities. Since the Affordable We have been the strongest voices on America and minority communities Care Act was passed, nearly half of the these issues. Mickey Leland, who was across this Nation. African-American adults who didn’t my predecessor, died on the side of an Mr. Speaker, Black History Month is have health insurance now have health Ethiopian mountain because he cared a time to reflect on notable African- insurance. Under the Affordable Care about the horrible and devastating American icons, their achievements as Act, the number of working-age Afri- drought that was killing those in the a people, and our continued struggle can-American adults who are unin- region and he continued to want to for a more perfect Union. Not only does sured has been cut from 27 percent to take them food and to hold dying ba- it serve as a source of great pride and 14 percent, the lowest rate ever. The bies in his hands. an anchor to the African descendants number of African-American children Now we have a new challenge, and in the African-American community, without insurance also decreased to that is of Somalia, a new hunger emer- but it is also a vehicle to educate the the lowest rate ever, negative 5 per- gency. Millions are going to die if this masses on the totality of the Black ex- cent. Repealing the Affordable Care President does not recognize that his perience throughout the history of this Act would take away coverage for more responsibilities include not only being Nation. than 3.3 million African Americans. In the Commander in Chief, but many As we gather this evening to cele- my district, we are looking for ways to times the chief humanitarian of the brate the life, legacy, and achievement expand coverage, not to remove or re- world. of African descendants, it is important peal it. In the last drought, some 350,000 chil- to remember the journey told and em- Members of this caucus and members dren died in this region because of star- ploy the same resilient spirit in our before us have offered policy solutions vation. Right now they are expecting continued push for fair and equal ac- and continue to push policies and ini- that starvation is going to impact hun- cess to life, liberty, and the pursuit of tiatives that would help African-Amer- dreds of thousands of women and chil- happiness. ican communities because we know the dren. This is a picture of a woman and Mr. Speaker, the Congressional Black work that our communities have done, her child walking by the dead goats Caucus is a body of 49 members in both the work of our forefathers to ensure that would be the source of their liveli- houses of Congress representing mil- that we have a place at the table; indi- hood because there is no water. lions of African Americans and other viduals like Shirley Chisholm, as was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.040 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1121 spoken about by my colleague SHEILA Frederick Douglass as if he was still How dare you ask that question. JACKSON LEE. People who have come to alive. If anyone has any questions From the beginning of the Presidency America to be part of the experience of about the relevance of Black History of Barack Obama, you declared war on the African diaspora are people from Month, we can start by noting that him. You followed a philosophy that many parts of the Caribbean. Right perhaps it is important to make sure may be familiar to those of us who are now we have Congresswoman YVETTE that the Nation’s Commander in Chief familiar with the history of the Deep CLARKE, representing the Ninth Dis- understands the contributions that Af- South: obstruction today, obstruction trict of New York, of Jamaican de- rican Americans have made to the tomorrow, obstruction forever. scent. Other notable Jamaicans who United States of America, going all the b 2015 have served this country: General Colin way back to the Boston Massacre, Powell, the first Black U.S. Secretary where one of its leaders, Crispus Mr. MCCONNELL declared that his top of State; Constance Baker Motley, the Attucks, was the first American killed priority was to make Barack Obama a first Black woman appointed to the at the onset of the American Revolu- one-term President. And yet, he ques- Federal bench; our previous Attorney tion in connection with the Boston tions whether Americans, who are part General, Eric Holder, whose family Massacre, challenging the unjust tax- of the growing resistance movement, hails from Barbados; Cicely Tyson, the ation policies of the British Empire. have failed to give Donald Trump a Academy Award-nominated actress Now, the 45th President of the United chance. Let’s be clear. He has zero whose family is from Nevis; Edward States of America asked a question credibility on the issue of lecturing us Blyden, from my own St. Thomas, who over the last several months: What ex- about Presidential etiquette. We will has been known as the father of pan- actly do Black folks have to lose? decide what the rules of engagement Africanism; Hubert Harrison, a promi- Many of us were perplexed by that are when it comes to this current nent political activist, writer, and ora- question, given his history, and actu- President. Pipe down as it relates to tor; and my own special hero, Ruby ally think that you have lost your talking to any of us about how to en- Rouss of the island of St. Croix, who mind if you come to the conclusion gage the White House because he has was the first Black woman assigned as that the current occupant of 1600 Penn- no credibility on the issue. His obstruc- a permanent staff of the Supreme sylvania Avenue has any interest in tion took place in the midst of two Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. It making a positive difference in the failed wars in the worst economy since is the work of these great African lives of people of color generally, Afri- the Great Depression. Americans and those who are not her- can Americans specifically, perhaps be- So we have got a lot of issues that we alded and those that we don’t know. cause of his own history. have got to sort out with this current Ms. JACKSON LEE talked about her We know that in the early 1970s The President here in Black History Month, own family members. My own father, Trump Organization, of which he was both for the African-American commu- LeRoy Plaskett, and my mother, who president, was sued by the Justice De- nity and for the broader community of came from the Virgin Islands and went partment for racial discrimination in Americans in blue States, in red to New York as older siblings to give the housing stock that they owned, States, in urban America, in rural back and to ensure that their younger where they were denying African America, in suburban America, in the siblings could have the things needed Americans and people of Puerto Rican north, the south, the east, and the back home in the Virgin Islands. They ancestry access to apartments, not- west. And I look forward to working have given a legacy for all of us, and withstanding their economic qualifica- with my colleagues in the Congres- we are so grateful for the work they tions to be renters or co-op owners. sional Black Caucus, and others, to have all done. I spoke of Congress- I would just note parenthetically tackle issues like criminal justice re- woman YVETTE CLARKE of New York. that it was the Nixon Justice Depart- form, to fix the Voting Rights Act that Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I now ment—not the Kennedy Justice De- was damaged in such an irresponsible yield to another distinguished member partment or the Johnson Justice De- way by the Supreme Court decision in of the New York delegation, my col- partment or the Carter Justice Depart- Shelby County v. Holder, and to work league, the great HAKEEM JEFFRIES, ment or the Clinton Justice Depart- to build an economy that works for all who has led this Special Order before ment or the Obama Justice Depart- Americans, not simply the millionaires and who I look to for guidance on how ment—that concluded that Donald J. and billionaires who dominate the to continue the great work that he and Trump and his organization was dis- Trump Cabinet. JOYCE BEATTY did previously. criminating on the basis of race. I thank my distinguished colleague Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, I thank Those of us from New York under- from the Virgin Islands (Ms. PLASKETT) the distinguished gentlewoman from stand that the current occupant of the for giving me the opportunity to share the Virgin Islands for her very kind re- White House was the leader of the some thoughts today. I thank my col- marks and for yielding and for the tre- high-tech lynch mob designed to try to league, MARC VEASEY, for his continued mendous job that she and my class- get the wrongfully convicted Central leadership. And I look forward to hear- mate, MARC VEASEY, have done in lead- Park Five sentenced to death, taking ing my distinguished colleague, BREN- ing this CBC Special Order hour over out a full-page ad in some of the local DA LAWRENCE, from Motown. this 115th Congress during the last few periodicals in New York calling for Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, I weeks. that. It turns out that all five individ- thank Mr. VEASEY. We stand here today in the midst of uals were wrongfully convicted and Mr. Speaker, I yield to the distin- Black History Month where many Afri- spent years in jail for a crime they did guished gentlewoman from Michigan can Americans throughout the country not commit. Donald J. Trump has (Mrs. LAWRENCE), who is my classmate are asking the question: What do we do never apologized for that reckless and and one of my very good dear friends. now that the unthinkable has oc- irresponsible action. Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, I curred? Then, of course, for 5 years he per- want to thank Representative MARC As a community, as a nation, we petrated the racist lie that Barack VEASEY from Texas, who has been an have gone from the Presidency—distin- Obama was not born in the United amazing advocate for voting rights and guished and dynamic 8 years—of States of America, all designed to un- has been standing with the people in Barack Obama to the current situation dermine the legitimacy of the 44th Texas across this country for American where we have a swamp percolating at President of the United States of values with the refugee ban. 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue under the America, which is why here in Black And I can’t say enough about my col- leadership of Donald J. Trump. History Month it is very interesting to league, my freshman class member, He began Black History Month by me that some of my friends on the STACY PLASKETT, from the beautiful saying that he was convening folks for other side of the aisle question whether Virgin Islands. Her commitment to what he called his little Black history we, as members of the Congressional being a voice for people who are often breakfast. Those of us who actually Black Caucus, or others are being irre- not heard has been one that has been watched some of the coverage seemed sponsible in not giving the current valuable, not only to us here in Con- perplexed by his reference to the great President a chance. gress but for this country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.042 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 Mr. Speaker, Black History Month is Our criminal justice system is under We have heard from so many of our a time to celebrate our progress while attack. colleagues about the achievements of recognizing the challenges that we still Civil rights icons that we know and African Americans. But not just the face today. celebrate during Black History Month, achievements—the struggles, and the The President, Donald Trump, posed like Martin Luther King and our amaz- issues that we are facing today. the question to African Americans ask- ing Congressman JOHN LEWIS, endured Mr. Speaker, we heard from Con- ing: What do you have to lose? pain and suffering during a peaceful gresswoman SHEILA JACKSON LEE, who Our Black history is outlined with protest and support of voting rights in outlined not just the past struggles of the great progress and hard sacrifices 1965. African Americans and their achieve- endured by our forefathers. Under this Disproportionate injustices against ments, but also about the rising con- administration and under these current African Americans and minorities did cerns throughout the African diaspora circumstances that we are dealing not end with the civil rights move- when she talked about what is hap- with, yes, Mr. President, we have a lot ment. pening in Somalia and other places, to lose. We have a lot to lose for every Today, we fight for equality under and the fact that African Americans point of progress that we have made in the law. This fight continues. have a duty to support other diasporas this country. And for every hard fought Now, we have Senator Jeff Sessions and the work that they are doing and step forward, we have a lot to lose. charged with leading the Justice De- the struggles they have. Instead of draining the swamp, this partment. His record speaks for itself. We heard about the Affordable Care administration is filling it with un- He was denied for a position as a Fed- Act from our assistant leader, Mr. CLY- qualified and dangerous megadonors. eral court judge speaks volumes. BURN, the civil rights movement, the Our basic rights and privileges included Clearly, there seems to be a certain work that was done, and the assault in our Constitution are under the risk amount of fear of the truth when it that is occurring now on some of those of being attacked under this adminis- comes from the mouth of Coretta Scott issues. tration. Old battles that we fought and King. So we, as the Congressional Black celebrate the wins, such as equal rights We cannot go backwards. African Caucus, have a duty to present those and quality education and criminal jus- Americans have worked hard to be a issues here before you all, our col- tice, have now begun again anew. part of the fabric of this country leagues, here in Congress, Mr. Speaker, How are they under attack, you through education, and health care is to put those issues on the RECORD so would ask? Well, let’s go appointment one of them. that we can expound on them. by appointment. Let’s talk about Charles Drew, who, Mr. Speaker, I yield to Mr. VEASEY if Under DeVos’ leadership, our edu- with his research, developed a tech- there is anything else that he wanted cation system is under attack. nique to have blood banks that we can African Americans have historically to discuss or that he reflected on in use in transfusions; Daniel Williams, fought for equal access and oppor- hearing some of the words that our col- the first person to successfully com- tunity in education. leagues spoke about today. African Americans had to suffer plete open-heart surgery; and Dr. Pa- Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I want to through the Jim Crow era to fight a tricia Bath, whose invention in cata- thank the gentlewoman from the Vir- segregated education system. They ract lenses transformed eye surgery, gin Islands (Ms. PLASKETT) for offering were forced to learn under a system and she was the first African-American that to me. There were several things that I that was both separate and unequal. woman doctor to receive a patent for a African Americans have faced and medical invention. heard that were deeply inspiring, yet fought against injustice in the edu- Now, our society’s most vulnerable deeply troubling at the same time. It is cation system ever since our emanci- stand to lose something that we fought amazing how when you start talking pation. so hard for, and that is ensuring every- about Black history, and you get ready And now, in 2017, our Secretary of one receives health care in America, to apply it to present day, you under- Education is Betsy DeVos. And frank- ACA. Women should not be charged stand just how important it is that we ly, she is not qualified to be the Sec- more for insurance than a man. The do bridge those two things—the his- retary of Education because she has sick shouldn’t be denied insurance be- tory, the future, and where we are at zero experience in public education, cause of preexisting conditions. And today. and she is not the right person to lead Republicans instead want to repeal, If you look at education, for in- our public schools. Being a millionaire take away, the ACA without any plan stance, I know that BRENDA LAWRENCE does not mean you are qualified to di- to replace it. We are going backwards. talked about the school desert phe- rect good policy. This month, we celebrate how far we nomena and how there are some neigh- We have real issues in Detroit. Under have come. We celebrate the progress borhoods where there are no neighbor- DeVos’ direct involvement in Michigan of the Civil Rights Act and the Voting hood schools. That is really sad. Be- public schools, we now have a chal- Rights Act. We celebrate the heros and cause when you think about Brown v. lenge in our city of Detroit with school sheros who paved the way. We have Board of Education and some of the deserts. Some of you may not have come too far to go back now. things that were brought out about heard about that. But a school desert is That is why I am proud to be a mem- people having to travel great distances where a community does not have a ber of the Congressional Black Caucus, just to be able to get an education, and local public school to attend. This along with others who have fought for now you start looking at today in mod- means a family’s only opportunity to Americans’ equality and for the mil- ern-day America and there still are no educate their children would be to go lions of Americans we represent. It is neighborhood schools, there is still seg- to a for-profit charter school that is time for us to remember the great regation in schools, and then you see a miles away, and there is no public progress we have made as a nation. It Secretary of Education who wants to transportation given for your child to is time to remember the past injustices try to implement plans that many say get there, so you are in a school desert. so that we never repeat them. The sac- would resegregate the schools, would Our Secretary of Education should be rifices of those who came before us eliminate neighborhood schools, that is enforcing civil rights equality and must never be forgotten. Their sac- what brought us here. The neighbor- making sure that every child is edu- rifices must not be in vain. hood school is what brought us here. cated in America, and this includes During this month of remembrance, That is what allowed us to have so children of color who can’t advocate let us all remember we are not going many great inventions when you start for themselves. back. We, the African-American com- talking about the inventions in Black Funneling taxpayer dollars to private munity, we Americans, we are moving History Month, when you learn about religious schools is a step backwards. forward. medicine, when you start talking about Resegregation masked under the guise Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, I science, almost all of those people of school of choice is a step backwards. thank Mrs. LAWRENCE so much for that mentioned, even during that time of So let’s talk about Secretary Ses- discussion and inspiration she has some of the most awful segregation in sions. given us. We are not going to go back. our country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.043 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1123 And I think about that in my own EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, (d) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the family. I have a high school invitation ETC. Committee on Foreign Affairs. from the 1930s in a little town called 552. A letter from the Acting Assistant Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department Henderson in Rusk County. I think communications were taken from the of State, transmitting Transmittal No. LOUIE GOHMERT is the representative Speaker’s table and referred as follows: DDTC 16-079, pursuant to the reporting re- there. When you open up the high 543. A letter from the Assistant to the quirements of Section 36(d) of the Arms Ex- school invitation—it is from my grand- Board, Board of Governors of the Federal Re- port Control Act; to the Committee on For- mother’s first cousin—and it says Hen- serve System, transmitting the Board’s final eign Affairs. derson Negro High School, and the rule — Amendments to the Capital Plan and 553. A letter from the Acting Assistant graduation will be held at the Hender- Stress Test Rules [Docket No.: R-1548] (RIN: Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department son Negro High School auditorium. 7100 AE-59) received February 9, 2017, pursu- of State, transmitting Transmittal No. I like to bring that up because when ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- DDTC 16-109, pursuant to the reporting re- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee quirements of Section 36(d) of the Arms Ex- people start asking: Well, why is there port Control Act; to the Committee on For- Black History Month— on Financial Services. 544. A letter from the Assistant General eign Affairs. Ms. PLASKETT. So we don’t forget. 554. A letter from the Acting Assistant Mr. VEASEY. So we don’t forget. But Counsel for Regulations, Office of Policy De- velopment and Research, Department of Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department before there was a Black History Housing and Urban Development, transmit- of State, transmitting Transmittal No. Month, people started putting those ting the Department’s final rule — Federal DDTC 16-101, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the things—Black, Negro, colored, what- Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee ever it may happen to be for that time received February 9, 2017, pursuant to 5 on Foreign Affairs. 555. A letter from the Acting Assistant U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. period—in front of schools. They didn’t Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Fi- put White in front of there. There was of State, transmitting Transmittal No. nancial Services. no Henderson White High School. It DDTC 16-096, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the 545. A letter from the Special Inspector was the Negro High School. Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee General, Office of the Special Inspector Gen- on Foreign Affairs. eral For The Troubled Asset Relief Program, b 2030 556. A letter from the Acting Assistant transmitting the Office’s quarterly report on I think the important thing in our Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department the actions undertaken by the Department of State, transmitting Transmittal No. trying to bridge all of that is we want of the Treasury under the Troubled Asset DDTC 16-084, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the to make sure that we don’t go back. We Relief Program; to the Committee on Finan- Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee don’t want to take steps backwards cial Services. on Foreign Affairs. when it comes particularly to edu- 546. A letter from the Acting Assistant 557. A letter from the Acting Assistant cation because all of those people, Secretary, for Energy Efficiency and Renew- Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department whether they went to the Henderson able Energy, Department of Energy, trans- of State, transmitting Transmittal No. Negro High School, whether it be blood mitting a report titled ‘‘Effects of Climate DDTC 16-133, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the transfusions—whatever it may happen Change on Federal Hydropower: The Second Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee Report to Congress’’, pursuant to Sec. 9505 of to be—they got there because of the in- on Foreign Affairs. the SECURE Water Act of 2009; to the Com- 558. A letter from the Acting Assistant vestment that we made in this country mittee on Energy and Commerce. in our public education system. The Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department 547. A letter from the Director, Regula- of State, transmitting Transmittal No. fact that someone in a position of im- tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, DDTC 16-127, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the portance would want to roll back those Department of Health and Human Services, Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee opportunities is absolutely scary. transmitting the Department’s final rule — on Foreign Affairs. It is the same with health care, when Refuse to Accept Procedures for Premarket 559. A letter from the Acting Assistant you start talking about health care Tobacco Product Submissions; Revised Ef- Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department and so many people who don’t have fective Date [Docket No.: FDA-2016-N-1555] of State, transmitting Transmittal No. received February 9, 2017, pursuant to 5 DDTC 16-119, pursuant to Section 36(c) of the adequate health care. It is when we see U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. the racial discrepancies and the life ex- Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- on Foreign Affairs. pectancy amongst African Americans. ergy and Commerce. 560. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, An African-American man, in par- 548. A letter from the Associate Adminis- Legislative Affairs, Department of State, ticular, has the lowest life expectancy. trator, Environmental Protection Agency, transmitting determinations of the Sec- And you want to remove people—20 transmitting the Agency’s Initial Report to retary and the associated report, pursuant to million Americans—from having life Congress on the EPA’s Capacity to Imple- the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation insurance? ment Certain Provisions of the Frank R. Act of 2012; to the Committee on Foreign Af- Ms. PLASKETT. Sure. Lautenberg Chemical Safety for the 21st fairs. Mr. VEASEY. It is absolutely scary. Century Act as required under Sec. 26(m)(1) 561. A letter from the Associate General I thank the gentlewoman for partici- of the Toxic Substances Control Act as Counsel for General Law, Department of amended; to the Committee on Energy and pating in this very timely conversa- Homeland Security, transmitting seventeen Commerce. (17) notifications of a federal vacancy, des- tion. We needed to have this conversa- 549. A letter from the Acting Secretary, ignation of acting officer, nomination, or ac- tion with the country. Department of the Treasury, transmitting a tion on nomination, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Ms. PLASKETT. We did. There are six-month periodic report on the national 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. some additional conversations that we emergency with respect to Lebanon that was 2681-614); to the Committee on Oversight and need to have, but I know that our time declared in Executive Order 13441 of August Government Reform. has drawn nigh. 1, 2007, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public 562. A letter from the Solicitor, Federal Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 Labor Relations Authority, transmitting a back the balance of my time. U.S.C. 1703(c); Public Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); notification of a federal vacancy, pursuant (91 Stat. 1627); to the Committee on Foreign The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); Affairs. (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on bers are reminded to refrain from en- 550. A letter from the Director, Inter- Oversight and Government Reform. gaging in personalities toward the national Cooperation, Acquisition, Tech- 563. A letter from the General Counsel, Na- President. nology, and Logistics, Department of De- tional Mediation Board, transmitting the f fense, transmitting Transmittal No. 04-17, in- Board’s final rule — Access to Information forming of an intent to sign the Memo- [Docket No.: C-7156] (RIN: 3140-AA00) re- ADJOURNMENT randum of Agreement Between the Depart- ceived February 9, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, I move ment of Defense of the United States of 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 that the House do now adjourn. America and the Kingdom of Denmark, pur- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Oversight The motion was agreed to; accord- suant to Section 27(f) of the Arms Export and Government Reform. ingly (at 8 o’clock and 31 minutes Control Act and Executive Order 13637; to the 564. A letter from the Acting Attorney Committee on Foreign Affairs. General, Department of Justice, transmit- p.m.), under its previous order, the 551. A letter from the Acting Assistant ting a decision of the United States Court of House adjourned until tomorrow, Tues- Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, United day, February 14, 2017, at 10 a.m. for of State, transmitting Transmittal No. States v. Robert Cardena et al., 842 F.3d 959 morning-hour debate. DDTC 16-104, pursuant to Sections 36(c) and (7th Cir. 2016), pursuant to 28 U.S.C.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K13FE7.044 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 530D(a)(1); Public Law 107-273, Sec. 202(a); arrangements established by qualified State U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; (116 Stat. 1771); to the Committee on the Ju- political subdivisions for non-governmental to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in diciary. employees (Rept. 115–11). Referred to the addition to the Committee on Homeland Se- 565. A letter from the Acting Assistant At- House Calendar. curity, for a period to be subsequently deter- torney General, Office of Legislative Affairs, mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- f Department of Justice, transmitting an up- sideration of such provisions as fall within date on the Bureau of Prisons’ compliance PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. with the Revitalization Act’s privatization By Mr. KATKO (for himself, Mr. KING requirements, pursuant to Public Law 105-33, Under clause 2 of rule XII, public of New York, and Mr. PETERSON): Sec. 11201(c)(2)(B); (111 Stat. 734); to the Com- bills and resolutions of the following H.R. 1007. A bill to direct the Secretary of mittee on the Judiciary. titles were introduced and severally re- Veterans Affairs to establish a task force on 566. A letter from the Chief, Regulations ferred, as follows: Agent Orange exposure; to the Committee on and Standards Branch, Bureau of Safety and By Mr. LYNCH (for himself, Mr. SCHRA- Veterans’ Affairs. Environmental Enforcement, Department of DER, Ms. NORTON, Mr. TED LIEU of By Mr. SOTO (for himself and Mr. the Interior, transmitting the Department’s California, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, CRIST): H.R. 1008. A bill to ensure reliable observa- final rule — Civil Penalty Inflation Adjust- Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. VARGAS, Ms. tion of hurricanes; to the Committee on ment [Docket ID: BSEE-2017-0001; JACKSON LEE, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. Science, Space, and Technology. 17XE1700DX EX1SF0000.DAQ000 EEEE50000] ROSEN, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, By Mr. MITCHELL (for himself, Mr. (RIN: 1014-AA34) received February 6, 2017, Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New MEADOWS, and Mr. PALMER): pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law York, Mr. CICILLINE, Mr. H.R. 1009. A bill to amend title 44, United 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- O’HALLERAN, Mr. MEEKS, Ms. JUDY States Code, to require the Administrator of mittee on the Judiciary. CHU of California, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. the Office of Information and Regulatory Af- 567. A letter from the Chairman and CEO, HASTINGS, Ms. GABBARD, Ms. fairs to review regulations, and for other Farm Credit Administration, transmitting BONAMICI, and Ms. SHEA-PORTER): purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and the Administration’s final rule — Rules of H.R. 1001. A bill to exempt certain veterans Government Reform, and in addition to the Practice and Procedure; Adjusting Civil and other individuals from the application of Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to Money Penalties for Inflation (RIN: 3052- the hiring freeze; to the Committee on Over- be subsequently determined by the Speaker, AD16) received February 9, 2017, pursuant to sight and Government Reform. in each case for consideration of such provi- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. By Mr. DENT (for himself, Mr. TONKO, sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on the Mr. HIGGINS of New York, Mr. THOMP- committee concerned. Judiciary. SON of Pennsylvania, Mr. GRIJALVA, 568. A letter from the Chairman, Surface By Mr. BARLETTA: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New H.R. 1010. A bill to amend the Immigration Transportation Board, transmitting the York, Mr. MOULTON, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Board’s final rule — Civil Monetary Pen- and Nationality Act to expand the definition Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of an unauthorized alien to include aliens alties —— 2017 Adjustment [Docket No.: EP of Pennsylvania, Mr. ALLEN, Mr. 716 (Sub-No. 2)] received February 9, 2017, who have not been admitted to and are not POLIS, and Mr. BARLETTA): lawfully present in the United States, and pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law H.R. 1002. A bill to authorize a National 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- for other purposes; to the Committee on the Heritage Area Program, and for other pur- Judiciary. mittee on the Judiciary. poses; to the Committee on Natural Re- 569. A letter from the Chief, Publications By Mr. BURGESS: sources. H.R. 1011. A bill to make clear that an and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue By Ms. NORTON: agency outside of the Department of Health Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only H.R. 1003. A bill to authorize the establish- and Human Services may not designate, ap- rule — Revenue Procedure for Early Vol- ment of a program of voluntary separation point, or employ special consultants, fellows, untary Country-by-Country Filing (Rev. incentive payments for nonjudicial employ- or other employees under subsection (f) or Proc. 2017-23) received February 8, 2017, pur- ees of the District of Columbia courts and (g) of section 207 of the Public Health Service suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- employees of the District of Columbia Public Act; to the Committee on Energy and Com- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee Defender Service; to the Committee on Over- merce. on Ways and Means. sight and Government Reform. By Mr. BURGESS: 570. A letter from the Chief, Publications By Mr. WALBERG (for himself, Mr. H.R. 1012. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue CARTER of Georgia, Mr. MEADOWS, enue Code of 1986 to increase the dollar limi- Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only Mr. NEWHOUSE, Mr. GOSAR, and Mr. tation on employer-provided group term life rule — Updated Withholding Foreign Part- FARENTHOLD): insurance that can be excluded from the nership Agreement and Withholding Foreign H.R. 1004. A bill to amend chapter 3 of title gross income of the employee; to the Com- Trust Agreement (Rev. Proc. 2017-21) re- 5, United States Code, to require the publica- mittee on Ways and Means. ceived February 8, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. tion of information relating to pending agen- By Mr. CASTRO of Texas (for himself, 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 cy regulatory actions, and for other pur- Ms. JACKSON LEE, and Mr. NOLAN): Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and poses; to the Committee on Oversight and H.R. 1013. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Means. Government Reform. enue Code of 1986 to extend the above-the- 571. A letter from the Chief, Publications By Mr. ZELDIN (for himself and Miss line deduction for certain expenses of ele- and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue RICE of New York): mentary and secondary school teachers to Service, transmitting the Service’s final reg- H.R. 1005. A bill to amend title 38, United individuals involved in early childhood edu- ulations and temporary regulations — Divi- States Code, to improve the provision of cation programs; to the Committee on Ways dend Equivalents from Sources within the adult day health care services for veterans; and Means. United States [TD 9815] (RIN: 1545-BM33) re- to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. By Ms. CLARKE of New York (for her- ceived February 8, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. By Ms. JAYAPAL (for herself, Mr. CON- self, Ms. LEE, Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 YERS, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. NADLER, Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and JACKSON LEE, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Ms. VARGAS, Ms. NORTON, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Means. JUDY CHU of California, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. SOTO, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. GALLEGO, f Mr. SWALWELL of California, Ms. Mr. MEEKS, Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Il- ROYBAL-ALLARD, Ms. MICHELLE linois, Ms. MAXINE WATERS of Cali- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico, Mr. fornia, Ms. BASS, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS RICHMOND, Mr. QUIGLEY, Ms. CLARKE ELLISON, Ms. WILSON of Florida, and Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of of New York, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. Mr. SERRANO): committees were delivered to the Clerk SERRANO, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, H.R. 1014. A bill to designate Haiti under Mrs. TORRES, Mr. KILMER, Mr. SMITH section 244 of the Immigration and Nation- for printing and reference to the proper of Washington, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mrs. ality Act to permit nationals of Haiti to be calendar, as follows: NAPOLITANO, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, eligible for temporary protected status under Mr. BYRNE: Committee on Rules. House Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. LANGEVIN, Ms. such section; to the Committee on the Judi- Resolution 116. Resolution providing for con- ESHOO, Ms. NORTON, Mr. VARGAS, Ms. ciary. sideration of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. TED LIEU By Mr. CONNOLLY (for himself, Ms. 66) disapproving the rule submitted by the of California, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. NORTON, Mr. NOLAN, Mr. PETERS, Mr. Department of Labor relating to savings ar- ELLISON, and Mr. JOHNSON of Geor- DESAULNIER, Mr. SOTO, Mr. BLU- rangements established by States for non- gia): MENAUER, Mr. BEYER, Mr. TONKO, Ms. governmental employees, and providing for H.R. 1006. A bill to clarify the rights of all MATSUI, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. consideration of the joint resolution (H.J. persons who are held or detained at a port of CARTWRIGHT, and Mr. POLIS): Res. 67) disapproving the rule submitted by entry or at any detention facility overseen H.R. 1015. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- the Department of Labor relating to savings by U.S. Customs and Border Protection or enue Code of 1986 to allow a credit against

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income tax for qualified conservation con- York, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, Ms. By Mr. SESSIONS: tributions which include National Scenic BORDALLO, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Ms. H. Res. 115. A resolution providing Trails; to the Committee on Ways and WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. COHEN, Ms. amounts for the expenses of the Committee Means, and in addition to the Committee on SHEA-PORTER, Ms. TSONGAS, Mr. FOS- on Rules in the One Hundred Fifteenth Con- Natural Resources, for a period to be subse- TER, Ms. BONAMICI, Mrs. WATSON gress; to the Committee on House Adminis- quently determined by the Speaker, in each COLEMAN, Ms. MOORE, Mr. KILMER, tration. case for consideration of such provisions as Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, and By Mr. CHAFFETZ (for himself and fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Ms. SCHAKOWSKY): Mr. CUMMINGS): concerned. H.R. 1022. A bill to provide that 6 of the 12 H. Res. 117. A resolution providing By Ms. DELAURO (for herself, Mr. weeks of parental leave made available to a amounts for the expenses of the Committee MCGOVERN, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. Federal employee shall be paid leave, and for on Oversight and Government Reform in the RASKIN, Mr. QUIGLEY, Mr. BLU- other purposes; to the Committee on Over- One Hundred Fifteenth Congress; to the MENAUER, and Mr. SERRANO): sight and Government Reform, and in addi- Committee on House Administration. H.R. 1016. A bill to amend the Inspector tion to the Committee on House Administra- By Mr. ELLISON (for himself, Mr. General Act of 1978 to establish an Office of tion, for a period to be subsequently deter- MCGOVERN, and Mr. POCAN): Inspector General in the Executive Office of mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- H. Res. 118. A resolution expressing support the President, and for other purposes; to the sideration of such provisions as fall within for the designation of February 14 of each Committee on Oversight and Government the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. year as International Flower Workers’ Day, Reform. By Mr. MEEHAN (for himself and Ms. in acknowledgment of workers in flower-pro- By Mr. DENT (for himself, Mr. PAYNE, CLARK of Massachusetts): ducing countries and to demonstrate the and Mr. LANCE): H.R. 1023. A bill to create penalties for commitment of the United States to prac- H.R. 1017. A bill to amend title XVIII of the massage establishment owners and employ- tices that respect labor rights in other coun- Social Security Act to waive coinsurance ees who fail to report knowledge or reason- tries; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, under Medicare for colorectal cancer screen- able suspicion of sexual assault; to the Com- and in addition to the Committee on Ways ing tests, regardless of whether therapeutic mittee on the Judiciary. and Means, for a period to be subsequently intervention is required during the screen- By Mr. MESSER: determined by the Speaker, in each case for ing; to the Committee on Energy and Com- H.R. 1024. A bill to amend section 1105(a) of consideration of such provisions as fall with- merce, and in addition to the Committee on title 31, United States Code, to require that in the jurisdiction of the committee con- Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- annual budget submissions of the President cerned. quently determined by the Speaker, in each to Congress provide an estimate of the cost By Mr. GOODLATTE: case for consideration of such provisions as per taxpayer of the deficit and of the public H. Res. 119. A resolution providing fall within the jurisdiction of the committee debt; to the Committee on the Budget. amounts for the expenses of the Committee concerned. on the Judiciary in the One Hundred Fif- By Mr. NADLER (for himself, Mr. CON- By Mr. DESJARLAIS (for himself and teenth Congress; to the Committee on House NOLLY, and Mr. QUIGLEY): Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee): Administration. H.R. 1018. A bill to replace the Director of H.R. 1025. A bill to provide for media cov- erage of Federal appellate court proceedings, By Mr. KING of Iowa: the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protec- H. Res. 120. A resolution expressing the and for other purposes; to the Committee on tion with a 5-person commission, and for sense of the House with regard to the courts’ the Judiciary. other purposes; to the Committee on Finan- actions against President Trump’s executive By Mr. NOLAN (for himself, Mr. cial Services. order; to the Committee on the Judiciary. WELCH, Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. ELLISON, By Mr. GARRETT (for himself, Mrs. By Mr. PAYNE (for himself, Mr. Mr. PETERSON, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. COMSTOCK, Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. WITT- MULLIN, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRIS- WALZ, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. MEEKS, MAN, Mr. TAYLOR, Mr. GRIFFITH, and HAM of New Mexico, Mr. RYAN of Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania, Ms. Mr. BRAT): Ohio, Mr. BUCHANAN, Mrs. NAPOLI- CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. KILDEE, H.R. 1019. A bill to designate the Federal TANO, Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Ms. NOR- Mr. BEYER, Mr. TONKO, Mrs. DINGELL, building and United States courthouse lo- TON, Ms. MENG, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. Mr. FASO, Mr. CRAMER, Mr. SENSEN- cated at 255 West Main Street Charlottes- PETERS, Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of BRENNER, and Mr. PAULSEN): ville, Virginia, as the ‘‘Justice Antonin G. New York, and Mr. DEFAZIO): Scalia Federal Building and United States H.R. 1026. A bill to revise the authorized H. Res. 121. A resolution expressing support Courthouse’’; to the Committee on Transpor- route of the North Country National Scenic for health and wellness coaches and ‘‘Na- tation and Infrastructure. Trail in northeastern Minnesota and to ex- tional Health and Wellness Coach Recogni- By Mr. GRIFFITH (for himself and Mr. tend the trail into Vermont to connect with tion Week’’; to the Committee on Energy BRAT): the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, and and Commerce. H.R. 1020. A bill to allow the manufacture, for other purposes; to the Committee on Nat- By Mr. SMITH of Texas: importation, distribution, and sale of inves- ural Resources. H. Res. 122. A resolution providing tigational drugs and devices intended for use By Mr. SARBANES (for himself, Mrs. amounts for the expenses of the Committee by terminally ill patients who execute an in- DINGELL, Mr. SWALWELL of Cali- on Science, Space, and Technology in the formed consent document, and for other pur- fornia, Ms. DELAURO, and Mr. LARSON One Hundred Fifteenth Congress; to the poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- of Connecticut): Committee on House Administration. merce. H.R. 1027. A bill to amend title XXI of the f By Mr. KING of Iowa (for himself and Social Security Act to improve access to, Mr. BRAT): and the delivery of, children’s health serv- CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY H.R. 1021. A bill to amend section 349 of the ices through school-based health centers, STATEMENT Immigration and Nationality Act to deem and for other purposes; to the Committee on specified activities in support of terrorism as Energy and Commerce. Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of renunciation of United States nationality, By Mr. SIRES: the Rules of the House of Representa- and for other purposes; to the Committee on H.R. 1028. A bill to amend titles 23 and 49, tives, the following statements are sub- the Judiciary, and in addition to the Com- United States Code, with respect to conges- mitted regarding the specific powers mittee on Foreign Affairs, for a period to be tion mitigation and metropolitan transpor- granted to Congress in the Constitu- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in tation planning, and for other purposes; to tion to enact the accompanying bill or each case for consideration of such provi- the Committee on Transportation and Infra- joint resolution. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the structure. committee concerned. By Mr. TIPTON (for himself and Mr. By Mr. LYNCH: H.R. 1001. By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of SCALISE): Congress has the power to enact this legis- New York (for herself, Mrs. COM- H.J. Res. 71. A joint resolution providing lation pursuant to the following: STOCK, Mr. HOYER, Mr. CONNOLLY, Ms. for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 Article I, Section 8, Clause 18. NORTON, Mr. BEYER, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. of title 5, United States Code, of the final By Mr. DENT: GARAMENDI, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. SOTO, rule of the Office of Natural Resources Rev- H.R. 1002. Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. SPEIER, Mr. NAD- enue of the Department of the Interior relat- Congress has the power to enact this legis- LER, Mr. LYNCH, Mr. SMITH of Wash- ing to consolidated Federal oil and gas and lation pursuant to the following: ington, Mr. KEATING, Mr. RYAN of Federal and Indian coal valuation reform; to Article I, Section 8 of the United States Ohio, Mr. COOPER, Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. the Committee on Natural Resources. Constitution. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New York, By Mr. CHABOT: By Ms. NORTON: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. ADAMS, Mrs. H. Res. 114. A resolution providing H.R. 1003. LAWRENCE, Mr. SARBANES, Mr. GRI- amounts for the expenses of the Committee Congress has the power to enact this legis- JALVA, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. JOHNSON of on Small Business in the One Hundred Fif- lation pursuant to the following: Georgia, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, teenth Congress; to the Committee on House Clause 18 of section 8 of article I of the Mr. TAKANO, Ms. CLARKE of New Administration. Constitution.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L13FE7.100 H13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with HOUSE H1126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 13, 2017 By Mr. WALBERG: to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 1004. whatever source derived, without apportion- New York: Congress has the power to enact this legis- ment among the several states, and without H.R. 1022. lation pursuant to the following: regard to any census or enumeration.’’ Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Con- By Mr. CASTRO of Texas: lation pursuant to the following: stitution of the United States; the power to H.R. 1013. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3: regulate commerce among the several states Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress shall have the power . . . to regu- and Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 to make lation pursuant to the following: late Commerce with foreign Nations, and all Laws which shall be necessary and proper The Congress shall have power . . . To among the several states, and with the In- for carrying into Execution the foregoing make all laws which shall be necessary and dian Tribes. Powers. proper for carrying into execution the fore- By Mr. MEEHAN: The bill will prevent Executive Agencies going powers, and all other powers vested by H.R. 1023. from violating the rule and spirit of the Ad- this Constitution in the government of the Congress has the power to enact this legis- ministrative Procedures Act by requiring ad- United States, or in any department or offi- lation pursuant to the following: ditional transparency about public commu- cer thereof. This bill is enacted pursuant to: Article I, nications made by the agencies; most impor- By Ms. CLARKE of New York: Section 8, Clause 3 and Article I, Section 8, tantly communications made with the intent H.R. 1014. Clause 18 of artificially promoting support for pending Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. MESSER: regulatory actions. Congress has the author- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1024. ity to limit regulations by the Executive the power granted to Congress under Arti- Congress has the power to enact this legis- branch under its Commerce Clause power cle I of the United States Constitution and lation pursuant to the following: and it is necessary and proper to introduce its subsequent amendments, and further Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1, which pro- legislation to effectively carryout this clarified and interpreted by the Supreme vides that, ‘‘The Congress shall have the power. Court of the United States. Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Im- By Mr. ZELDIN: By Mr. CONNOLLY: posts and Excises, to pay the Debts and pro- H.R. 1005. H.R. 1015. vide for the common Defence and general Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Imposts, and Excises shall be uniform Article 1, Section 8 of the United States Clause 1 of section 8 or article I of the Con- throughout the United States,’’ and Article Constitution. stitution, and clause 18 of section 8 of article 1, Section 9, Clause 7, which provides that, By Ms. JAYAPAL: I of the Constitution. ‘‘No money shall be drawn from the Treas- H.R. 1006. By Ms. DELAURO: ury, but in Consequence of Appropriations Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1016. made by Law; and a regular Statement and lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Account of the Receipts and Expenditures of This bill is enacted pursuant to the power lation pursuant to the following: all public Money shall be publish from time granted to Congress under Article I of the Article 1, Section 8 to time.’’ United States Constitution and its subse- By Mr. DENT: By Mr. NADLER: quent amendments, and further clarified and H.R. 1017. H.R. 1025. interpreted by the Supreme Court of the Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- United States. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. KATKO: Section 8, Article I of the Constitution, to Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- H.R. 1007. provide for the general welfare, to regulate tion. Congress has the power to enact this legis- commerce, and to make all laws which shall By Mr. NOLAN: lation pursuant to the following: be necessary and proper for carrying into H.R. 1026. Article 1 Section 8 Clause 1: Congress shall execution federal powers. Congress has the power to enact this legis- have power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, By Mr. DESJARLAIS: lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1018. Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution of Congress has the power to enact this legis- provide for the common Defense and general the United States grants Congress the au- lation pursuant to the following: Welfare of the United States. thority to enact this bill. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18: By Mr. SOTO: By Mr. SARBANES: The Congress shall have Power .... To H.R. 1008. H.R. 1027. make Laws which shall be necessary and Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- proper for carrying into Execution the fore- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Article 1, Section 8, of the United States going Powers, and all other Powers vested by Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- Constitution. this Constitution in the Government of the tion. By Mr. MITCHELL: United States, or in any Department or Offi- By Mr. SIRES: H.R. 1009. cer thereof. H.R. 1028. Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. GARRETT: Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1019. lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 to make all Congress has the power to enact this legis- Pursuant to clause 3(d)(1) of rule XIII of Laws which shall be necessary and proper for lation pursuant to the following: the Rules of the House of Representatives, carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- Article I, Section 8 of the United States the Committee finds the authority for this ers. Constitution, specifically Clause 1 (relating legislation in article I, section 8 of the Con- By Mr. BARLETTA: to providing for the general welfare of the stitution. H.R. 1010. United States), Clause 6 (relating to post of- Congress has the power to enact this legis- fices and post roads), and Clause 18 (relating By Mr. TIPTON: lation pursuant to the following: to the power to make all laws necessary and H.J. Res. 71. Article 1, Section 8, Clauses 4 and 18 proper for carrying out the powers vested in Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. BURGESS: Congress), and Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2 lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1011. (relating to the power of Congress to dispose Article I, Section 1 and Article I, Section 8, Congress has the power to enact this legis- of and make all needful rules and regulations Clause 18. lation pursuant to the following: respecting the territory or other property f Article I, Section 9, clause 7, ‘‘No Money belonging to the United States). shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in By Mr. GRIFFITH: ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Consequence of Appropriations made by Law; H.R. 1020. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors and a regular Statement and Account of the Congress has the power to enact this legis- were added to public bills and resolu- Receipts and Expenditures of all public lation pursuant to the following: Money shall be published from time to This bill is enacted pursuant to the power tions, as follows: time.’’ granted to Congress under Article I, Section H.R. 25: Mr. HENSARLING. By Mr. BURGESS: 8 of the United States Constitution. H.R. 60: Mr. SIMPSON. H.R. 1012. By Mr. KING of Iowa: H.R. 112: Mr. MAST. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1021. H.R. 179: Mr. COOK, Mr. BYRNE, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- LOBIONDO. Article I, Section VIII, clause 1 enumerates lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 233: Ms. DELBENE and Mr. that, ‘‘The Congress shall have power to lay Article I, Section 8, Clause 4 which states: O’HALLERAN. and collect taxes, duties, imposts and ‘‘The Congress shall have the Power To . . . H.R. 244: Mr. KILMER. excises . . .’’ Further, Amendment XVI establish an uniform Rule of Naturalization H.R. 246: Mr. KINZINGER, Mr. ROGERS of states that ‘‘The Congress shall have power . . .’’ Alabama, Mr. FASO, Mr. SIMPSON, Mr.

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ROUZER, Mr. VALADAO, Mr. DESJARLAIS, Mr. H.R. 804: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of BALART, Mr. MOULTON, Mr. BISHOP of Geor- O’HALLERAN, Mr. BOST, Mr. BERGMAN, Mr. New York, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Penn- gia, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. CLAY, Ms. MEADOWS, and Ms. MCSALLY. sylvania, Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. PERLMUTTER, MENG, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. NADLER, H.R. 275: Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Mr. Ms. WILSON of Florida, Miss RICE of New Mr. ZELDIN, Mr. MCGOVERN, and Ms. TENNEY. BRADY of Pennsylvania, and Mr. MICHAEL F. York, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. KEATING, Mr. H. Res. 30: Mr. PETERS and Mr. THOMPSON DOYLE of Pennsylvania. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania, Mr. of California. H.R. 281: Mr. NEWHOUSE, JEFFRIES, Mr. THOMPSON of California, Mrs. H. Res. 31: Ms. DELAURO, Mr. WALZ, Mr. H.R. 291: Mr. GOTTHEIMER. LOWEY, Mr. KIHUEN, and Ms. TITUS. NADLER, Mr. DONOVAN, Mr. AGUILAR, and Ms. H.R. 299: Mr. PALLONE, Mrs. TORRES, Mr. H.R. 807: Ms. NORTON, Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. TENNEY. DUNCAN of South Carolina, Mr. KING of Iowa, DELAURO, Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. COHEN, Mr. H. Res. 47: Mr. FASO. Mr. FITZPATRICK, and Mr. POLIQUIN. JONES, Mr. COLE, Mr. MULLIN, Mr. WALZ, Mr. H. Res. 57: Ms. SPEIER. H.R. 350: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. HARPER, and Mr. GRIJALVA. H. Res. 60: Mr. HENSARLING. WALZ, Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. MITCHELL, Mr. H.R. 816: Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, H. Res. 72: Mr. VELA. JORDAN, and Mr. BYRNE. Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. H. Res. 78: Mr. HUFFMAN, Mr. MEEKS, and H.R. 355: Mr. YOHO. KEATING, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. GAETZ, Ms. Ms. DEGETTE. H.R. 367: Mr. AMODEI. NORTON, and Ms. LEE. H. Res. 79: Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. H.R. 389: Mr. SHERMAN. H.R. 820: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. TIP- RYAN of Ohio, and Mr. SERRANO. H.R. 391: Mr. BRAT. TON, Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Ms. LOF- H. Res. 85: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 392: Mr. POCAN, Mr. WOODALL, Mr. GREN, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New New York. CLEAVER, Mr. GROTHMAN, Mr. NADLER, Mr. Mexico, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. CRAMER, Ms. H. Res. 94: Ms. JACKSON LEE and Mr. RICE of South Carolina, Mr. TONKO, Mr. BONAMICI, Mr. RICHMOND, Mr. DEUTCH, Mrs. GUTIE´ RREZ. ROTHFUS, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. COOPER, Ms. BUSTOS, Ms. NORTON, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- H. Res. 102: Mr. COHEN, Mr. GALLEGO, Mr. ESHOO, Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. TROTT, and Mr. fornia, Mr. POLIS, Mr. SARBANES, and Mr. VELA, Mr. VEASEY, and Mr. MCGOVERN. SCHIFF. MULLIN. H. Res. 104: Ms. CLARKE of New York and H.R. 394: Mr. HENSARLING. H.R. 828: Mr. BYRNE, Mr. SMUCKER, Mr. Mr. KIHUEN. H.R. 402: Mr. TAKANO. WALKER, and Mr. RICE of South Carolina. H. Res. 105: Mr. PANETTA, Ms. MOORE, Mr. H.R. 421: Mr. BACON. H.R. 830: Mr. BARR. HASTINGS, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, and Ms. H.R. 428: Mr. LUCAS. H.R. 842: Mr. QUIGLEY. ADAMS. OHEN H.R. 459: Mr. C . H.R. 850: Mr. FASO and Mr. YOHO. H. Res. 111: Ms. LEE, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. H.R. 469: Mr. SMITH of Missouri. H.R. 852: Mr. DEUTCH. CICILLINE, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. BLUMENAUER, H.R. 502: Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. H.R. 858: Mr. RUIZ and Mr. AGUILAR. Ms. JACKSON LEE, Ms. SPEIER, Mr. SARBANES, WALZ, Mr. O’HALLERAN, Mr. AGUILAR, Mrs. H.R. 860: Mr. FORTENBERRY. and Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. LAWRENCE, Mrs. DINGELL, Ms. TITUS, Mr. H.R. 866: Ms. JAYAPAL. KENNEDY, and Mr. CLAY. H.R. 868: Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. f H.R. 512: Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. HIGGINS H.R. 869: Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. of New York, Mr. WALKER, and Mr. KILMER. H.R. 881: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. NORTON, H.R. 523: Mr. HENSARLING and Mr. RICE of Mr. WELCH, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. TED LIEU of CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- South Carolina. California, and Mr. COOPER. ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- H.R. 530: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. YARMUTH, H.R. 893: Mr. COHEN. ITED TARIFF BENEFITS and Mr. KIHUEN. H.R. 898: Mr. MEEKS. H.R. 540: Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Mr. GENE H.R. 906: Mr. SMITH of Texas. Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or GREEN of Texas, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mrs. H.R. 909: Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. statements on congressional earmarks, BUSTOS, Mr. JEFFRIES, and Ms. HANABUSA. GOTTHEIMER, Mr. REICHERT, Mr. DESAULNIER, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff H.R. 544: Mr. THOMPSON of California and Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, Ms. GABBARD, benefits were submitted as follows: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Ms. PLASKETT, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. EVANS, Mr. OFFERED BY MS. FOXX H.R. 550: Mr. GOTTHEIMER. KIHUEN, and Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. H.R. 613: Mr. NORCROSS, Mr. RUSSELL, Mr. H.R. 926: Mr. HASTINGS and Ms. ESHOO. The provisions warranting a referral to the CONAWAY, Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. ROHRABACHER, H.R. 931: Mr. REED, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, and Committee on Education and the Workforce and Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. Mr. MACARTHUR. in H.J. Res. 66 do not contain any congres- H.R. 624: Mr. ISSA. H.R. 939: Mr. VISCLOSKY. sional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or lim- H.R. 625: Mr. COOK. H.R. 943: Mr. SOTO. ited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of H.R. 630: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY and Mr. NADLER. H.R. 947: Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas and Mrs. rule XXI. H.R. 632: Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Mr. DAVIS of California. OFFERED BY MS. FOXX SWALWELL of California, and Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 972: Ms. TITUS. The provisions warranting a referral to the H.R. 637: Mr. SHIMKUS. H.R. 974: Mr. YODER, Mr. KILMER, Mr. Committee on Education and the Workforce H.R. 656: Mr. OLSON, Mr. BANKS of Indiana, GARAMENDI, and Ms. KUSTER of New Hamp- in H.J. Res 67 do not contain any congres- and Mr. RUSSELL. shire. sional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or lim- H.R. 662: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Mr. H.R. 976: Mr. TAKANO and Mr. BILIRAKIS. ited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of GRAVES of Missouri, Ms. MOORE, and Mr. H.R. 997: Mr. MASSIE and Mr. JONES. rule XXI. WITTMAN. H.R. 998: Mr. SESSIONS and Mr. CHAFFETZ. H.R. 664: Mr. KATKO and Mr. RENACCI. H.J. Res. 6: Mr. PALMER and Mr. BUDD. f H.R. 671: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Ms. ROSEN, H.J. Res. 27: Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. GROTHMAN, and Mr. CRIST. and Mr. RENACCI. H.R. 686: Mr. MEEHAN. H.J. Res. 31: Mr. COOPER. PETITIONS, ETC. H.R. 691: Mr. BANKS of Indiana. H.J. Res. 42: Mr. RATCLIFFE and Mr. BABIN. Under clause 3 of rule XII, petitions H.R. 696: Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. JAYAPAL, Mr. H.J. Res. 53: Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas, Ms. and papers were laid on the clerk’s CA´ RDENAS, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, and Mr. ROSEN, and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. CLAY. H.J. Res. 59: Ms. CHENEY and Mr. HUDSON. desk and referred as follows: H.R. 710: Mr. HARPER and Mr. HENSARLING. H.J. Res. 66: Mr. ROE of Tennessee and Mr. 13. The SPEAKER presented a petition of H.R. 721: Mr. PAULSEN, Mr. WELCH, Mr. SESSIONS. the Common Council of Albany, NY, relative LOEBSACK, and Mr. HIGGINS of New York. H.J. Res. 67: Mr. ROE of Tennessee and Mr. to Resolution No. 11.12.17R (MC), opposing a H.R. 747: Mr. BANKS of Indiana, Mr. SCHRA- SESSIONS. wholesale repeal of the Affordable Care Act, DER, Mr. RICE of South Carolina, Mr. CAL- H.J. Res. 69: Mr. SESSIONS and Mr. MOONEY urging Congress to protect Americans from VERT, and Mr. PEARCE. of West Virginia. losing health insurance, and recognizing H.R. 748: Mr. SCHIFF, Ms. CLARKE of New H. Con. Res. 17: Mr. SOTO. health care as a basic human right; to the York, and Mrs. LOWEY. H. Con. Res. 21: Mr. GRIJALVA. Committee on Energy and Commerce. H.R. 756: Mr. RUSSELL and Mrs. LAWRENCE. H. Res. 15: Mr. SWALWELL of California, Mr. 14. Also, a petition of the City Council of H.R. 757: Mr. CLAY, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. PETERS, Mr. ROYCE of California, Mrs. Akron, OH, relative to Resolution No. 15- SIRES, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Ms. SLAUGH- BEATTY, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. DONOVAN, Ms. 2017, urging the Speaker of the House Paul TER, Mr. POCAN, Mr. GARAMENDI, Mrs. CARO- TENNEY, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, and Ms. Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch LYN B. MALONEY of New York, and Mr. SA´ NCHEZ. McConnell not to repeal the Affordable Care BRADY of Pennsylvania. H. Res. 21: Mr. GALLEGO. Act as this law has been so important for the H.R. 772: Mr. CARTER of Georgia and Mr. H. Res. 23: Ms. CLARKE of New York. health and wellbeing of Akron residents; LUCAS. H. Res. 28: Mr. HIGGINS of New York, Mr. jointly to the Committees on Energy and H.R. 782: Mr. COFFMAN. COOK, Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI, Ms. BONAMICI, Commerce, Ways and Means, Education and H.R. 787: Mr. BLUMENAUER and Ms. JUDY Mr. DONOVAN, Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, the Workforce, the Judiciary, Natural Re- CHU of California. Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, Ms. LEE, Ms. DELAURO, sources, House Administration, Rules, and H.R. 800: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Mrs. DINGELL, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. DIAZ- Appropriations.

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Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2017 No. 25 Senate The Senate met at 12 noon and was consideration of the nomination of Ste- dent’s Cabinet, which is filled not with called to order by the President pro ven T. Mnuchin, of California, to be champions of the working class, not tempore (Mr. HATCH). Secretary of the Treasury, which the with people who came from the work- f clerk will report. ing class but with a slew of superrich The senior assistant legislative clerk nominees, Washington insiders, and PRAYER read the nomination of Steven T. corporate types who have spent their The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- Mnuchin, of California, to be Secretary whole careers sticking it to the work- fered the following prayer: of the Treasury. ing man. Let us pray. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- A President’s Cabinet provides in- O God, who sends showers to soften ator from New Hampshire. sight into how they will govern and the Earth, You are the source of life Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I yield what their priorities will be. The Presi- and joy. You have challenged us to my postcloture debate time to Senator dent has shown his hand by selecting number our days, not our weeks, WYDEN. the most anti-working class Cabinet we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- months, or years. Give us wisdom to have ever seen. ator has that right. comprehend the brevity and uncer- The slate of nominees we will soon Ms. HASSAN. I suggest the absence consider, including Steve Mnuchin for tainty of our life’s journey. Forgive us of a quorum. when we boast about tomorrow, forget- Treasury, Andrew Pudzer for Labor, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The and RICK MULVANEY for OMB, show the ting that our times are in Your hands. clerk will call the roll. Today, bless our lawmakers and their yawning gap between the President’s The senior assistant legislative clerk audacious promises to working Amer- staffs. Remind them that they belong proceeded to call the roll. ica and the practical reality of his ad- to You and that You will order their Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask ministration, which is steadily stack- steps. As they wrestle with complex unanimous consent that the order for ing the deck against them. issues, help them seek Your wisdom the quorum call be rescinded. This evening we will debate the nom- and guidance. Lord, empower them as The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ination of Steve Mnuchin for Treasury, stewards of Your bounty, making them objection, it is so ordered. a Cabinet post that will have oversight faithful in the vocation to which You RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY LEADER over Wall Street. have called them. The Democratic leader is recognized. Candidate Trump spent the campaign We pray in Your Holy Name. Amen. CABINET NOMINATIONS lambasting elites and criticizing Wall f Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, can- Street. He said: didate Trump ran a populist campaign PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE I’m not going to let Wall Street get away that promised so much to working with murder. Wall Street has caused tremen- The President pro tempore led the America. Many of those themes were dous problems for us. Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: actually echoed in his inaugural ad- Those are his words, but what does I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the dress, but ever since President Trump President Trump do? With one of his United States of America, and to the Repub- took the oath of office, he has gone first Executive orders, he started the lic for which it stands, one nation under God, about breaking promise after promise process to try to roll back Wall Street indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. to the working people of this country. reform, undoing protections we put in f A predictable pattern is beginning to place after the financial crisis to pre- emerge. This President uses populist vent another one from occurring. He RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME rhetoric to cover up a hard-right agen- wants to eviscerate the one agency The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. KEN- da. We still hear the remnants of can- that sticks up for consumers when they NEDY). Under the previous order, the didate Trump’s populism in his speech- are being ripped off by payday lenders leadership time is reserved. es, but his actions as President don’t or debt collectors—the CFPB. That is a f match up. Just an hour after he had de- broken promise. livered populist words on the steps of Candidate Trump said at his rallies: EXECUTIVE SESSION the Capitol in his inaugural address, ‘‘When you cast that ballot, just pic- the President signed an Executive ture a Wall Street board room filled order—his first, I believe—that jacked with the special interests . . . and EXECUTIVE CALENDAR up the price on Americans trying to af- imagine the look on their faces when The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under ford a mortgage. you tell . . . them: ‘You’re fired!’ ’’ the previous order, the Senate will pro- Ever since, we here in the Senate But President Trump told Steve ceed to executive session to resume have been working through the Presi- Mnuchin, a Wall Street insider with

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

S1095

.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:15 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.000 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1096 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 decades of experience in that board MULVANEY or Representative Price to Treasury Department, Mr. Steven room he described, ‘‘You’re hired,’’ as take an ax to the programs they have Mnuchin, waded into very early on his Treasury Secretary, no less. That is relied on for generations. after his nomination became public. a broken promise. Just 3 weeks in, the administration News leaked on November 29 of last A President who is a true champion is stretching the boundaries of cog- year that Mr. Mnuchin was the Presi- for working America would never con- nitive dissonance. The President still dent-elect’s choice for Secretary of the sider unwinding protections that were speaks like a populist but governs like Treasury. The very next day, Mr. designed to make our financial system a hard-right conservative. He promises Mnuchin appeared on a CNBC program more secure and protect hard-working to stick up for working families, but and confirmed his selection. During an Americans from the risky practices too every decision he has made is rigging extended interview with CNBC, he in- often seen on Wall Street. the system further against them. troduced what I have come to call the For the Secretary of Labor, the Every American who works hard for Mnuchin rule. I will quote Mr. Mnuchin President picked Andrew Puzder, a their paycheck, who desperately de- directly with respect to what he said: man who once said he prefers robots to serves fairer overtime pay, who is ‘‘Any reductions we have in upper in- human employees because, in his counting on Social Security and Medi- come taxes would be offset by less de- words, they are always polite, they al- care to be there when they retire ductions, so there would be no absolute ways upsell, they never take a vaca- should look at this Cabinet and be very tax cut for the upper class.’’ tion, they never show up late, there is worried. I will repeat that last part of the never a slip and fall, or an age, sex, or I know many working people voted Mnuchin rule: ‘‘no absolute tax cut for race discrimination case. for President Trump in hopes that they the upper class.’’ Secretary Nominee Puzder, the guy would change the power structure in Mr. Mnuchin is the President’s nomi- who is supposed to be protecting labor- Washington, as he promised so many nee for Treasury Secretary. This is a ers—working people—actually said times. His Cabinet is the first way to position that has been held by Amer- that. see if he really meant it. His Cabinet is ican economic giants like Alexander I want to read it again. It galls me the first way to measure: Is President Hamilton, Albert Gallatin, Salmon that this man is nominated for Labor Trump measuring up in his Presidency Chase, Henry Morgenthau and Lloyd Secretary. Why does he prefer robots to to what he promised in his campaign? Bentsen. When a nominee for Treasury human employees? Secretary Puzder: It turns out President Trump was Secretary makes a pledge like Mr. They are always polite, they always using populist rhetoric to cover up a Mnuchin’s, it really ought to mean upsell, they never take a vacation, hard-right agenda, which will be car- something. It ought to stand for some- they never show up late, there is never ried out by this bevy of billionaires and thing. a slip and fall, or an age, sex, or race bankers and hard-right idealogues— Unfortunately, it already looks as discrimination case. broken promise after broken promise. though the Mnuchin rule is on the This is a man who has such disdain Candidate Trump said that Wash- ropes. The very first act of the 115th for workers that he said the minimum ington was a place where ‘‘the hedge Congress and a unified Republican gov- wage is a big mistake, and while at fund managers, the Wall Street inves- ernment, repealing the Affordable Care CKE Restaurants, his company, he con- tors . . . and the powerful [protect] the Act, shatters the Mnuchin rule. tinually outsourced American jobs. powerful.’’ The Affordable Care Act repeal A President who is a true champion ‘‘But I’m fighting for you,’’ he said to scheme that Republicans kicked off of working America would never even working Americans. months ago, in my view, is a Trojan consider selecting a nominee like An- If these first 3 weeks are any indica- horse of tax breaks for the most fortu- drew Puzder to run the Labor Depart- tion, that is a broken promise. nate. Nobody outside the top 4 or 5 per- ment. It is another broken promise to The nominations of Steve Mnuchin, cent of earners would get any of that the working men and women of Amer- Representative MULVANEY, and Andrew break. Most of it would go to house- ica. Amazing. Puzder represent broken promise after holds in the top 1 percent of earners— What President Trump did during the broken promise after broken promise. even then, the top one-tenth of 1 per- campaign and said during the cam- We Democrats, over the next several cent—and it is paid for by taking insur- paign and in his inaugural address is weeks, will make clear to the Amer- ance coverage and tax cuts for health almost the exact opposite of what he is ican people, as we continue to debate care literally out of the hands of mil- doing now. You could not find a more these nominations, that what Presi- lions of working people. anti-labor nominee for Labor Secretary dent Trump said on the campaign trail Then it is back for another whack at than Mr. Puzder. is not what he is doing as President. He the Mnuchin rule later this year. Last Now, what about OMB? The Presi- is breaking his promises to the work- week, the New York Times published a dent selected Representative MIKE ing people of America. story talking about Mr. Mnuchin, MULVANEY, whose congressional career Many working people who voted for which said that ‘‘his guarantee appears is a direct rebuke to key promises Can- Mr. Trump are depending on him to do impossible to fulfill either under the didate Trump made to working Amer- what he said in the campaign. Reading tax overhaul that the House Repub- ica. Candidate Trump promised that he the tea leaves of the first 3 weeks, licans are pushing or similar, sketchier was ‘‘not going to cut Social Security working Americans are going to be proposals that Mr. Trump has offered.’’ like every other Republican and I’m deeply, deeply disappointed over the Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- not going to cut Medicare or Med- course of his Presidency. sent to have printed in the RECORD the icaid.’’ Thank you. I yield the floor. article titled ‘‘Treasury Nominee Vows That is a quote from Candidate I suggest the absence of a quorum. No Tax Cut for Rich. Math Says the Trump. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Opposite.’’ But who does he choose for OMB? A clerk will call the roll. There being no objection, the mate- pick who has relentlessly argued to cut The senior assistant legislative clerk rial was ordered to be printed in the both of these programs, including bill proceeded to call the roll. RECORD, as follows: Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I ask after bill that would end both Medicare [Feb. 9, 2017] and Social Security as we know it. unanimous consent that the order for TREASURY NOMINEE VOWS NO TAX CUT FOR Our new Health and Human Services the quorum call be rescinded. RICH. MATH SAYS THE OPPOSITE. Secretary—who, unfortunately, passed The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without this Chamber because our Republican objection, it is so ordered. (By Patricia Cohen) colleagues are just marching in lock- Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, when The newly christened ‘‘Mnuchin rule’’—the step to the President—is in exactly the you serve as the Secretary of Treasury, assurance given by the Treasury nominee Steven T. Mnuchin that ‘‘there would be no same vein. you are charged with a variety of re- absolute tax cut for the upper class’’—seems A true champion of senior citizens, of sponsibilities, and right at the center as if it was made to be broken. the working man and woman, wouldn’t of your duties is to address taxes. This Mr. Mnuchin initially made the statement hire someone like Representative is an area that the nominee to head the during an interview on CNBC in November,

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It Whether it will be kept may become clear- cut—32 times as much as a middle-income would be great if it were actually true. er in two or three weeks—the timing Mr. family. In reality, the promise turned out to be Trump mentioned Thursday for delivering a Mr. Mnuchin has offered his own formula pretty much just a head fake. Rather ‘‘phenomenal’’ tax plan. for adhering to the standard he laid down, than closing the loophole and asking Although Mr. Mnuchin said any rate reduc- explaining that ‘‘any reductions we have in investment fund managers to pay their tions at the top would be offset by the clos- upper-income taxes would be offset by less fair share, the Trump plan actually ing of fat loopholes, his guarantee appears deductions.’’ impossible to fulfill either under the tax That would require some otherworldly gives them a 25-percent tax cut. In overhaul that the House Republicans are mathematical magic, however. fact, the Trump plan slashes tax rates pushing or similar, sketchier proposals that Consider the list of proposals that would for corporations and the wealthy Mr. Trump has offered. reduce taxes on the rich: across the board at a cost of trillions of Redesigning the tax code with an eye fixed Cut the top income to 33 percent, from 39.6 dollars. on lower rates has been a Republican mission percent. The President and Mr. Mnuchin for decades, and one that Mr. Trump adopt- Cut taxes on capital gains, 70 percent of might defend this plan by claiming it is which flow to the top 1 percent. ed. That prospect, combined with a promised a tax cut for the middle class, so I want regulatory retreat, has pumped up the stock Eliminate the estate tax, which applies to market and fueled optimism among business a tiny number of people, couples that have to spend just a few minutes checking in leaders. estates bigger than $10.8 million. with that part of the plan. If we read At the same time, the president has raised Eliminate the 3.8 percent surtax on high the fine print, we will notice that one expectations among his working-class sup- earners’ investment income that has been of the Trump tax plan’s big casualties porters that ‘‘the rich will pay their fair used to subsidize health care for poorer is something called head of household share,’’ and that ‘‘special-interest loopholes Americans. status. That is a particularly impor- that have been so good for Wall Street inves- End the alternative minimum tax, which currently limits deductions for high earners. tant benefit for a lot of middle-income tors, and for people like me, but unfair to taxpayers because it reduces their American workers’’ will be eliminated. Mr. Lower taxes on cash flow and income that Mnuchin, soon to be one of the administra- passes from small businesses to their owners, bills. What would it mean for head of tion’s top economic policy officials, prom- which also primarily benefits wealthier household status to go away? Millions ised ‘‘a big tax cut for the middle class.’’ Americans. of working Americans, mostly single Yet analyses of the president’s and the Now, what deductions could be eliminated parents, would get hit with tax in- that would offset all those cuts at the top? House Republicans’ plans consistently con- creases. clude that the wealthy will receive the larg- There aren’t many, said Alan Viard, an econ- omist at the conservative American Enter- Furthermore, the Trump plan elimi- est tax cuts by far. nates key personal exemptions for mil- Start with the House blueprint, which at prise Institute. If Republicans insist on low- the moment is the closest thing to a working ering taxes on top wages, capital gains, es- lions of other middle-income families. draft that exists. The nonpartisan Tax Pol- tates and cash-flow and pass-through income It pushes a lot of families into higher icy Center, a joint project of the Urban Insti- as advertised, ‘‘there’s not a lot of latitude tax brackets than they are in today. tute and Brookings Institution, found ‘‘high- to limit itemized deductions further,’’ Mr. The administration touts its proposals income taxpayers would receive the biggest Viard said. for a larger standard deduction and a Any plan to curb itemized deductions cuts, both in dollar terms and as a percent- new child care tax credit as the cure- age of income.’’ would be partly offset by Mr. Trump’s plan to increase the standard deduction. Cur- all for its tax increases on the middle How big? ‘‘Three-quarters of the tax cuts class and on working people, but the would benefit the top 1 percent of tax- tailing mortgage deductions for the most ex- payers,’’ if the plan were put into effect this pensive homes is probably a good idea, Mr. math just doesn’t add up. Families who year, it said. The highest-income house- Viard said, but that isn’t going to do much are struggling to get ahead today are holds—the top 0.1 percent—would get ‘‘an av- to raise revenue from those at the top of the going to pay higher taxes tomorrow. erage tax cut of about $1.3 million, 16.9 per- income pyramid, and the deduction is al- So let’s recap the Trump tax plan: a cent of after-tax income.’’ ready roughly limited to the interest paid on multitrillion-dollar tax break for the Those in the middle fifth of incomes would $1 million in mortgage debt. wealthy and corporations and a gut Such alternative ideas, however, assume get a tax cut of almost $260, or 0.5 percent, punch of higher taxes for working fam- while the poorest would get about $50. that the Mnuchin rule will have a meaning- ful impact on what the White House will pro- ilies. That split would worsen down the road, the At this point, it would be generous to Tax Policy Center says: ‘‘In 2025 the top 1 pose or Congress will debate. Not everyone is percent of households would receive nearly convinced that it will. As Mr. Viard said, ‘‘I say that the Mnuchin rule is now on 100 percent of the total tax reduction.’’ don’t know how much interest there is in life support. If we wanted to design a Those wary of any potential liberal bias fulfilling that statement by Mnuchin, how- tax plan to push more Americans out could turn to the conservative-leaning Tax ever it’s interpreted.’’ of the economic winners circle, the Foundation. Its analysis found a smaller gap Mr. WYDEN. After breaking the Trump plan is what you would come up between the wealthy and everyone else, but Mnuchin rule once, the majority is now with. When I look at the Trump tax a gap nonetheless. The foundation concluded planning to fast-track a second tax plan that Mr. Mnuchin would be in that four out of five taxpayers would see break for the wealthy. This one will be only a 0.2 to 0.5 percent increase in after-tax charge of spearheading, it looks to me income, while those in the top 1 percent of even larger; in fact, it could be 10 times as though the administration has zero the income scale would save at least 10 times bigger or more. My guess is that a lot interest in cleaning out the rot that is as much, or 5.3 percent. That’s nearly $40,000 of Americans are wondering what has right at the heart of America’s tax sys- extra for those at the top, compared to $67 happened to all the campaign talk tem. for those smack dab in the middle of the in- about fixing the Tax Code and really Here is what it is all about, in my come scale. going out there and standing up for the view. The Tax Code today is a tale of ‘‘The Mnuchin rule is already being broken working people. As the Republican two systems. If you are a wage earner— as Republicans look to strip away hundreds nominee, the President said he was the a welder in Portland or a nurse in Lou- of billions of dollars in Affordable Care Act tax credits for working Americans to pay for guy to repair the country’s broken tax isiana—your taxes come straight out of a giant tax break for the wealthy,’’ Senator system. The particulars of the Trump your paycheck. They are compulsory— Wyden said. ‘‘Bottom line is it’s unfair to plan were buried deep in the business no special deals. You can even see the cut benefits that the middle class depends pages and on his Web site, but the numbers right on your pay stub. Once on, all so the wealthy pay a lower rate.’’ broad strokes of the message were or twice a month, out it comes. There Mr. Mnuchin did not respond to a request pitched in rallies across the Nation: are no special tax-dodging strategies or for comment. Donald Trump alone knew how to do loopholes to winnow down the tax bill Republicans argue their plan makes every- one a winner—that lower taxes will unleash the job because he had taken advan- for the welder in Portland or the nurse an enormous swell of economic growth, rais- tage of the rules himself, and he was in Louisiana. You can’t set up a John ing wages, incomes and tax revenue all ready to crack down on those who Doe, Inc., in a Cayman Islands P.O. box around. weren’t paying their fair share. to shield your income from taxes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:32 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.001 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1098 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 But the rules are different for the potential merger, this is pretty much I believe his impressive record of serv- powerful and the well connected. At the equivalent of stuffing the ballot ice in both the public and private their disposal are huge armies of law- box. health care sectors as well as his firm yers and accountants who specialize in Now, as a nominee for a Cabinet posi- grasp of VA health care issues make tax games. They specialize in tax tion, Mr. Mnuchin could be in line for him extraordinarily well qualified to tricks. With the right advice, the most a special elective Federal tax deferral lead the Department through the com- fortunate individuals and corporations on money made by selling stocks and ing period of major reforms and con- in the country can decide how much bonds. That is the very definition of tinuing transformation. tax to pay and when to pay it. If any- getting to pay what you want, when Dr. Shulkin has served in numerous body wonders why people in America you want. We hear a frequent and com- executive roles at hospitals across the feel the tax system is rigged and the mon defense when these kinds of tax country, including Beth Israel Medical rules are stacked against them, this is tricks are brought into public view. It Center in New York City, the Univer- a big part of the answer. I intend to is true that the people who use them sity of Pennsylvania Health System, talk more about that, but I want to are following the laws on the books, and the Atlantic Rehabilitation Insti- come back to highlight the difference but the outrage in our tax system, as I tute. In fact, he has been named one of between the welder in Portland and the have said on this Senate floor, is what the top 100 Physician Leaders of Hos- nurse in Louisiana. is legal. That is the real outrage with pitals and Health Systems and one of When those hard-working Americans the American tax system, and it is out- the 50 Most Influential Physician Ex- are out there working for a wage and rageous that the Senate has allowed ecutives in the country. once or twice a month have their taxes obvious gamesmanship to stay legal. It In 2015, Dr. Shulkin brought his ex- taken right out of their paycheck, they is outrageous that the administration tensive experience in the private sector know they aren’t getting anything spe- and its chosen nominee for Treasury to the Department of Veterans Affairs cial. It is compulsory. It is mandatory. have shown no interest in changing it. and served as the VA Under Secretary They see it on their paychecks. Yet When you are the Treasury Sec- for Health. Last year, I had the oppor- they get lots of news coverage and arti- retary, one of your paramount obliga- tunity to host Dr. Shulkin in my cles and the like, and they will see that tions is overseeing taxes. The last time hometown of Caribou, ME, as he toured for those who are fortunate, instead of the United States overhauled its Tax the community-based outpatient clinic paying taxes in a mandatory and com- Code—this was in 1986—the Reagan and our local hospital, Cary Medical pulsory way, they pretty much get to Treasury Department played a huge Center, to see the innovative work decide what they are going to pay, role in that effort, and one of the core being done there to provide veterans when they are going to pay it, and principles of that reform was treating with top-quality health care closer to maybe nothing at all. It seems to me wages and wealth the same way. Demo- where they live. that as we look at the nominee for crats and Republicans came together Cary Medical Center partners with Treasury Secretary, we get a pretty to pass a tax reform bill based on fair- the VA through the Access Received good example of how it does play out in ness. It said that the wage earner—that Closer to Home or ARCH Program to terms of taxes for those fortunate few nurse in Louisiana or welder in Port- provide veterans in Northern Maine and how his taxes stand in sharp con- land—their income and the income of with high-quality care, including spe- trast to that welder in Portland or that those who made their money in finance cialty care close to home and close to nurse in Louisiana. and on Wall Street and the like would their families, rather than forcing Not long after ending a 17-year run at be treated the same. I see no indication them to drive 250 or more miles to re- Goldman Sachs, Mr. Mnuchin opened a that this administration is prepared to ceive their care at the Togus VA Med- hedge fund called Dune Capital in 2004. repeat that formula. ical Center in Augusta, the location of He set up an outpost in Anguilla and The campaign promise to fix the bro- Maine’s only VA hospital. the Cayman Islands. That is not a ken, dysfunctional Tax Code—Donald This partnership between Cary Med- move you make for the infrastructure Trump’s campaign promise—lured in a ical Center and the VA has been a huge or the ease of the commute. It is about lot of voters. When I heard that success, with an approval rating from a zero-percent tax rate. Mnuchin rule the first time, I said that our veterans exceeding 90 percent. Last During Mr. Mnuchin’s hearing, he sounds pretty good—no net tax break spring, when we were faced with the claimed that having those overseas for those who are the most fortunate. potential expiration of the ARCH Pro- funds benefited American nonprofits. That sounds pretty appealing. The tax gram, Dr. Shulkin, at my invitation, When he testified in front of the Fi- plans that the administration and Re- came to Maine and announced his com- nance Committee, he said: You know, publicans in Congress have on offer mitment to ensure that veterans using the main thing we are doing with these now will not undo the disgusting un- this innovative program in our State overseas funds is we are helping fairness that is right at the heart of would maintain seamless community churches and pension funds. But docu- the American Tax Code. In fact, it is care. He has kept his word. ments from the Securities and Ex- only going to get worse. During his visit to Maine, Dr. change Commission show something This issue has to be at the center of Shulkin also toured the Togus VA Med- quite different. In some cases, 100 per- the debate on Mr. Mnuchin’s nomina- ical Center, the oldest VA facility in cent of his investors were from outside tion. I am particularly troubled by the the Nation and the community-based of the United States, and setting up fact that the evidence shows that the outpatient clinic in Bangor. I would overseas allowed Mr. Mnuchin to help Mnuchin rule is already on the ropes. note that he drove the 4 hours from Au- them avoid paying taxes. What was the I intend to oppose this nominee. I gusta, where the VA hospital is lo- end effect? Dune Capital was heavily urge my colleagues to do the same. cated, to Caribou to get a better sense invested in movies. So millions of dol- I suggest the absence of a quorum. of the distances in our State. Right lars in profits from Hollywood exports, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The now, when we are in the midst of a like the movie ‘‘Avatar,’’ were funneled clerk will call the roll. fierce blizzard, you can imagine how to an offshore web of entities and in- The senior assistant legislative clerk important it is for veterans in need of vestors, giving him the chance to skirt proceeded to call the roll. care to be able to access that care close a U.S. tax bill. Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I ask to home in an emergency. At a more recent point in his career, unanimous consent that the order for I was truly impressed, and remain Mr. Mnuchin’s bank was up for a merg- the quorum call be rescinded. truly impressed, with Dr. Shulkin’s un- er. The deal had the potential to be a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without derstanding of the needs of rural vet- personal windfall for him and a small objection, it is so ordered. erans and the challenges of providing circle of others. A foundation Mr. NOMINATION OF DAVID SHULKIN health care in rural settings. While in Mnuchin chaired reportedly used tax- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise Maine, Dr. Shulkin listened to veterans exempt dollars to fund a write-in cam- to express my strong support for the health care providers, VSO advocates, paign pushing for the deal’s approval. nomination of Dr. David Shulkin to be and the VA staff alike to ensure that During the public comment period on a the next Secretary of Veterans Affairs. our veterans received the care they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:32 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.004 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1099 have earned through their service to lapse. The situation was so dire, he ar- dom, foreclosed on more than 16,000 our Nation. gued, that we could not even pause to seniors who were living on fixed in- In fact, he remained in Caribou and provide additional, meaningful relief to comes and who had reverse mortgages had a town meeting in which he heard the millions of families across the with that company. In one case, the from people representing a variety of country facing home foreclosures. company foreclosed on a 90-year-old views but all of whom encouraged him In the years that followed, we woman’s home over a 27-cent debt. to continue this wonderful program. learned a lot more about just how bad Hundreds of families across Hawaii Dr. Shulkin’s nomination to be VA things were. Many banks sold mort- who had mortgages with OneWest felt Secretary has drawn support from our gages to people who couldn’t afford the impact of Steve Mnuchin’s business veterans service organizations them, packaged those mortgages into practices personally. throughout the country, including the complex financial instruments, In 2013, I received a letter from Su- American Legion, the VFW, the Dis- colluded with ratings agencies, and zanne on the Big Island. Suzanne is a abled American Veterans, the Para- sold those ‘‘products’’ as solid invest- retired Navy civilian. She depends on lyzed Veterans of America, AMVETS, ments. her disability and retirement income and the Vietnam Veterans of America. The American people stepped in with to afford her modest home in Hilo. She That does not surprise me because he hundreds of billions of dollars to bail had her mortgage through OneWest. has demonstrated, in very concrete out Wall Street. But without effective, When she wrote to me, her home was in ways, his commitment to the veterans broad laws in place before the financial court-ordered mediation pending fore- we are serving. At a time when bipar- crisis to prevent predatory lending, closure. Suzanne went into mediation tisan consensus, unfortunately, has millions of people lost their homes and in good faith, assuming that OneWest been all too rare in this Chamber, Dr. trillions of dollars in household wealth. would assist her with a loan modifica- Shulkin’s nomination has been one of Many of those victims have yet to re- tion. Well, she was wrong. Suzanne and the few areas where Republicans and cover. OneWest agreed that before she signed Democrats have found common ground. That was bad enough as it was un- any modification, she would receive a His nomination was approved unani- folding, but in the years that followed, written offer that included the full mously by the Senate Veterans’ Affairs we learned more and more about the terms of the agreement. But during Committee. numerous abuses these banks per- their second mediation meeting, in vio- During this time, when crucial re- petrated on the American people. lation of the agreement, OneWest told forms and organizational changes are After years of pushing subprime Suzanne that she owed $30,000 more necessary to ensure consistent, high- loans on minority homeowners who than her records showed and made a quality care for our Nation’s veterans, couldn’t afford them, foreclosures dev- unilateral offer without disclosing any it is critical that the VA have a tal- astated minority communities across of the terms, contrary to what they ented, experienced, and committed the country. According to a 2010 study had agreed to. leader to spearhead the Department’s by the Center for Responsible Lending, Suzanne wisely refused to accept the transformation as we seek to improve minority homeowners were 70 percent so-called offer. At the time that she the quality and timeliness of health more likely to lose their homes in fore- wrote to me, OneWest was pushing a care for our veterans. closure proceedings. judge to proceed with her foreclosure. Dr. Shulkin is an excellent nominee Many banks also violated judicial ‘‘I can afford my home,’’ she wrote. ‘‘I and I urge all of my colleagues to sup- foreclosure proceedings when they want to keep my home, but the dif- port his confirmation. signed hundreds of thousands of fore- ference between $1,300 and $1,500 a Seeing no one seeking recognition, I closure documents without reviewing month is huge.’’ suggest the absent of a quorum. them, also known as robo-signing. OneWest has billions and is consid- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Some of my colleagues might argue ering going public this year. clerk will call the roll. that it isn’t worth rehashing this dev- She went on to say: ‘‘They have made The legislative clerk proceeded to astating economic history, but I dis- unreasonable offers, lost paperwork, ig- call the roll. agree because today we will be asked to nored requests. All the nightmares you Ms. HIRONO. Mr. President, I ask vote for a Treasury nominee whose hear about on the news, well, consider unanimous consent that the order for questionable business practices earned me a poster child.’’ the quorum call be rescinded. him the title of ‘‘Foreclosure King.’’ Suzanne asked us to write to Steve The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without As a senior executive at Goldman Mnuchin on her behalf, even though objection, it is so ordered. Sachs for 17 years, Steve Mnuchin was she knew that OneWest had a record of Ms. HIRONO. Mr. President, it is ob- an evangelist for the types of financial hanging homeowners like her out to served that we are being asked to con- transactions—credit default swaps and dry. She said: ‘‘It seems to me that Mr. firm a Treasury Secretary who helped collateralized debt obligations—that Mnuchin was one of the architects of bring about the 2008 financial crisis and crashed the economy in 2008. He said our meltdown.’’ She is right. profited off the misery that followed. these instruments were ‘‘an extremely There are tens of thousands of stories During his campaign, President positive development in terms of being from OneWest customers like Suzanne Trump promised to crack down on Wall able to finance different parts of the across the country, and Mr. Mnuchin is Street abuses. In one of his campaign economy and different businesses effec- responsible for each one of them as ads, the President said that the CEO of tively.’’ What was essentially just busi- CEO of OneWest. Now President Trump Goldman Sachs was part of a ‘‘global ness to him devastated the economy is asking us to confirm Mr. Mnuchin to elite’’ that was ‘‘robbing our working and the lives of millions of people. serve as Treasury Secretary. class.’’ He said that on Wall Street, As the CEO of OneWest, Mnuchin was Throughout his campaign, President ‘‘It’s the powerful protecting only the deeply involved in subprime lending Trump made it clear that he wants to powerful.’’ and was responsible for tens of thou- dismantle Dodd-Frank, eliminate the Given his campaign promises, it is sands of foreclosures across the coun- Consumer Financial Protection Bu- astounding that President Trump nom- try. Under Mr. Mnuchin’s leadership, reau, and roll back financial regula- inated Steve Mnuchin, someone whose OneWest was among the worst offend- tions that would prevent another fi- business record embodies the worst ers in robo-signing foreclosure docu- nancial crisis. As Treasury Secretary, abuses from the financial crisis, to ments. While he denied this fact during Mr. Mnuchin would be charged with serve as Secretary of the Treasury. his confirmation hearing, a vice presi- implementing this agenda. In the fall of 2008, when I served in dent at OneWest admitted to signing Credible economists have warned the U.S. House, then-Treasury Sec- 750 documents per week while spending that we could end up in another finan- retary Hank Paulson came to Capitol less than 30 seconds on each one. In cial crisis. My question is, Who would a Hill and painted a dire picture. He told other words, he was very busy robo- Secretary Mnuchin try to save—Wall us that without drastic intervention by signing these documents. Street or the millions of people who Congress and the White House, the en- Under Mr. Mnuchin’s leadership, a will be adversely impacted? His record tire global financial system would col- OneWest subsidiary, Financial Free- shows which path Steve Mnuchin

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The impressed by these young men and a constitutional right to prostitution. clerk will call the roll. women, and we all appreciate the role She always advocated for coeduca- The legislative clerk proceeded to they play in our Nation’s government. tional prisons and juvenile facilities. call the roll. There are so many others, like Ser- She even proposed abolishing Mother’s Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I geant at Arms Frank Larkin and his Day. ask unanimous consent that the order Deputy, Jim Morhard, who work tire- So you can understand why Senators for the quorum call be rescinded. lessly behind the scenes to keep the wanted to get her views on issues that The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Capitol running smoothly. I would like might come before her as a Justice, but YOUNG). Without objection, it is so or- to thank their team: the doorkeepers, when pressed at her confirmation hear- dered. the Senate recording and television ing, here is what she had to say: RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY LEADER studio, the Press Galleries, the IT and You are well aware that I came to this pro- The majority leader is recognized. technical support, and the help desk, ceeding to be judged as a judge, not as an ad- vocate. Because I am and hope to continue to WELCOMING THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA the security and operations teams, the executive office, and the Capitol ex- be a judge, it would be wrong for me to say Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, or preview in this legislative chamber how I later today we will welcome Prime change operators, who oversee the many calls that come into Senate of- would cast my vote on questions the Su- Minister Justin Trudeau to the Cap- preme Court may be called upon to decide. itol. Canada is more than just our fices. Many of these teams provided Were I to rehearse here what I would say and neighbor. Canada is our ally. I am support literally around the clock, and how I would reason on such questions, I looking forward to a productive discus- we are thankful. would act injudiciously. Judges in our sys- Of course, none of this would have sion with him. tem are bound to decide concrete cases, not been possible without the Capitol Po- abstract issues. CABINET NOMINATIONS lice, headed by Chief of Police Matthew She went on: Mr. President, after much unneces- Verderosa. These men and women A judge sworn to decide impartially can sary delay from Senate Democrats, we worked overtime to ensure the safety offer no forecasts, no hints, for that would will finally confirm two more key Cab- of the Senate Chamber and the entire show not only disregard for the specifics of a inet nominees this evening—Steve Capitol as Members and their staffs particular case, it would display disdain for Mnuchin as Treasury Secretary and worked through the night. We thank the entire judicial process. David Shulkin as Veterans Affairs Sec- them for their service and for keeping So summing it up, she said: No hints, retary. The President has selected two us safe every day. no forecasts, no previews, and that is well qualified candidates to lead the I would also like to thank the Sec- what has become known as the Gins- charge on strengthening our economy retary of the Senate, Julie Adams, As- burg standard. Supreme Court nomi- and providing veterans with more of sistant Secretary Mary Suit Jones, and nees of Presidents of both parties have the care they deserve. I will have more their entire team. adhered to it. to say on Mr. Mnuchin and Dr. Shulkin Specifically, I would like to thank For example, President Clinton’s sec- tomorrow, but for now I look forward the following offices and staffers, many ond nominee, Stephen Breyer, noted to their confirmation this evening. of whom who worked for more than 50 that ‘‘there is nothing more important After we work with these nominees, straight hours: the Official Reporters to a judge than to have an open mind we will continue to put the rest of of Debates, which include Patrick and to listen carefully to arguments,’’ President Trump’s Cabinet in place. Renzi, Susie Nguyen, Julia Jones, and so he told the Judiciary Com- It has been really disappointing to Mary Carpenter, Patrice Boyd, Octavio mittee he did ‘‘not want to predict or see the historic level of obstruction by Colominas, Alice Haddow, Andrea commit myself on an open issue that I Senate Democrats. I would like to re- Huston, Carol Darche, Desirae Jura, feel is going to come up in the Court.’’ mind our colleagues across the aisle of Megan McKenzie, Wendy Caswell, That meant, he said, not discussing the very real consequences their ac- Diane Dorhamer, Mark Stuart, and ‘‘how’’ a ‘‘right applies, where it ap- tions have on our country and on the Julie Bryan; the Captioning Services plies, under what circumstances’’ it ap- men and women forced to work gruel- team, which includes Sandra Schumm, plies. ing hours to keep the Senate running Brenda Jamerson, Doreen Chendorain, When his nomination to be Chief Jus- overnight last week. Jennifer Smolka, and Laurie Harris. tice was pending, John Roberts said There are so many who worked In addition to the offices I just that adhering to the principle em- around the clock to keep the Senate named, I would also like to recognize bodied in the Ginsburg standard is ‘‘of operating and I would like to offer the following legislative offices: The great importance not only to potential some words of thanks now. Bill Clerk, the Enrolling Clerk, the Ex- Justices but to judges, which most First, I would like to start with our ecutive Clerk, the Journal Clerk, the nominees to the Supreme Court al- floor staff led by Laura Dove on the Legislative Clerk, the Daily Digest, ready are.’’ Republican side and Gary Myrick on and, of course, the Parliamentarians. ‘‘We’re sensitive,’’ he said, ‘‘to the the Democratic side. They, along with Lastly, I would like to thank our need to maintain the independence and the cloakroom staff and floor teams, subway drivers and the Government integrity of the Court.’’ worked nonstop to allow us to keep the Publishing Office, which worked tire- Let me repeat that. The Chief Justice floor running smoothly. So I want to lessly to get the RECORD printed. said this principle was necessary ‘‘to thank them for their hard work and We are also grateful for the long maintain the independence and integ- dedication. hours and sacrifice that each of these rity of the Court.’’ I would also like to recognize the offices and staffers made last week. Of He then explained how the Ginsburg Senate pages, who didn’t miss a beat course, it was completely unnecessary standard helps maintain that independ- just 2 weeks into their new job. They but, nevertheless, they were here ence. Nominees, he said, ‘‘go on the are Hailey Maggelet, Cameron Mabry, through the night. Court not as a delegate from [the Judi- Shelby Hogan, Elizabeth Flachbart, NOMINATION OF NEIL GORSUCH ciary] Committee with certain com- Chris An, Sammy Potter, Sydney Mr. President, now, one final matter. mitments laid out and how they’re Jones, Cynthia Yue, Avery Beard, When President Clinton took office in going to approach cases.’’ Wade Quigley, Eddie Owens, Hannah 1993, he named his first nominee to the Rather, ‘‘[T]hey go on the Court as Seawell, Chloe Smith, Bryant Rey- Supreme Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justices who will approach cases with nolds, Taylor Ball, Mitchell Heiman, Ginsburg’s nomination was not without an open mind and decide those cases in Drew Beussink, Harrison Bushnell, controversy. She had argued for posi- light of the arguments presented, the Lauren Cavignano, Mitchell Durbin, tions that are still quite controversial record presented, and the rule of law.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:32 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.007 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1101 And the litigants before them,’’ he con- Connecticut, also says that Judge the Democratic leader said he was pre- cluded, ‘‘have a right to expect that Gorsuch, for the first time with Su- pared to keep Justice Scalia’s seat and to have the appearance of that as preme Court nominees, has some ‘‘spe- open for 4 years—4 years. That was well. That has been the approach that cial obligation’’—some ‘‘special obliga- made difficult by the nomination of an all of the Justices have taken.’’ tion’’—to give his views on ‘‘specific outstanding candidate like Judge At the time, my colleague from New issues,’’ without the benefit of the judi- Gorsuch. York and other Senate Democrats were cial process that Justice Sotomayor So our colleague came up with a new upset that the Chief Justice followed noted was so important. supermajority standard for his con- Justice Ginsburg’s approach—even Under our colleagues’ approach, firmation—a standard that didn’t exist though many of them didn’t complain there is no need to review the record in for seven of the eight Justices cur- when she refused to preview or pre- the case, no need to do any legal re- rently on the Court—a fact my friend judge legal issues during her confirma- search, no need to hear the best argu- later had to admit. tion hearing. ments from each side, no need to delib- The Democratic double standard on But guess who came to the Chief Jus- erate with your colleagues on the requiring nominees to prejudge issues tice’s defense. Justice Ginsburg. She bench to arrive at a correct result. is just the latest attempt to come up felt compelled to depart from protocol Nope. Just give a driveby legal conclu- with something, with anything—any- and weigh in on the matter. She said: sion on a complicated and consequen- thing—to justify opposing an excep- ‘‘Judge Roberts was unquestionably tial matter of constitutional law. tional nominee like Judge Gorsuch. right’’ in refusing to preview or pre- Let’s be clear about what is going on Judge Gorsuch is one of the most im- judge legal issues at his confirmation here. This new ‘‘special test’’ and ‘‘spe- pressive, most highly qualified nomi- hearing. cial obligation’’ aren’t about ensuring nees to ever come before us. He has Both of President Obama’s nominees Judge Gorsuch’s judicial independence; won kudos from across the political adhered to the Ginsburg standard as they are about compromising it. Our spectrum. Even the top Democrat on well. His first nominee, Sonia friends on the other side of the aisle the Judiciary Committee couldn’t help Sotomayor, explained that what her want to constrain his ability to rule in but praise him. ‘‘experience on the trial court and the a later case according to the facts and Instead of appreciating that our new appellate court have reinforced for me the law by holding him to what he said President has nominated an accom- is that the process of judging is a proc- in their meetings or what he said under plished, independent, and thoughtful ess of keeping an open mind. It’s the oath at his hearing. jurist, Democrats are viewing this out- process,’’ she continued, ‘‘of not com- In the upside down world of my standing nominee as a political prob- ing to a decision with a prejudgment Democratic friends, Judge Gorsuch lem. Their base is demanding total re- ever of an outcome. . . . ‘’ That proc- must lose his judicial independence— sistance to everything, but they can’t ess, she said, applied not only to the both as a sitting circuit court judge find a good reason to oppose Judge cases that would come before her on and as a future Supreme Court Jus- Gorsuch on the merits. They are in a pickle. the Supreme Court if she were con- tice—in order to prove his judicial So we have this attempt to replace firmed but that could come before her independence. the bipartisan Ginsburg standard with As Justice Ginsburg and Justice in her then-current capacity as a cir- the double standard. I understand the Breyer and Justice Sotomayor all cuit court judge. difficulty of their situation, but the Most Senators of both parties have noted, the process of judging is about standard we are going to follow with respected the Ginsburg standard. having an open mind, seeing what the this nominee is the same one—the For example, during her hearing, facts are in a particular case, hearing same one—we followed for Ruth Bader Senator LEAHY told Justice Ginsburg the arguments on both sides, and mak- Ginsburg and every other Justice on that he ‘‘certainly’’ didn’t want her ‘‘to ing what the judge believes is the cor- the Court since then: no hints, no fore- have to lay out a test here in the ab- rect ruling according to the law. It is casts, no previews, fair consideration, stract which might determine what not about a judge hemming himself in and an up-or-down vote. [her] vote or [her] test would be in a before a legislative body by previewing I suggest the absence of a quorum. case [she had] yet to see that may well how he would view a legal issue, or, as The PRESIDING OFFICER. The come before the Supreme Court.’’ Even Senator LEAHY noted, announcing the clerk will call the roll. my friend from New York has recog- legal test he might apply in a par- The bill clerk proceeded to call the nized the Ginsburg Standard is a ticular case, and it is definitely not roll. ‘‘grand tradition.’’ about that judge saying whether some- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I ask The far left has been pushing my thing in the abstract is constitutional. unanimous consent that the order for counterpart and other Senate Demo- So under this double standard, Sen- the quorum call be rescinded. crats to oppose anyone—anyone— ators must respect the need for judicial The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without whom the President nominates to the independence of the Supreme Court objection, it is so ordered. Supreme Court. So the Ginsburg stand- nominees of Democratic Presidents, Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, we are ard is given way to the double stand- even when those nominees espouse currently in the midst of the longest ard. views that are far, far outside the transitional leadership gap at the De- My friend from New York now says mainstream, like suggesting there is a partment of Treasury in our Nation’s this Supreme Court nominee has to constitutional right to prostitution or history. The Senate has never let this pass some ‘‘special test’’—some ‘‘spe- urging the abolition of Mother’s Day. much time go without a Treasury Sec- cial test’’—to show his judicial inde- Under this double standard, Senators retary. In fact, the Senate has never pendence. He says Judge Gorsuch, a can compromise the judicial independ- left Treasury without a confirmed Sec- highly respected, experienced jurist, ence of clearly mainstream Supreme retary in between administrations for must preview his approach or even pre- Court nominees of Republican Presi- this long. Yet, despite the obvious need judge legal issues that could come be- dents, even when those nominees are, to fill this position, we have had to fore him, like whether the President’s like Judge Gorsuch, well-known pro- deal with continual and pointless Executive order on refugee vetting is ponents of maintaining judicial inde- delays, courtesy of some of our col- ‘‘constitutional.’’ This is clearly an ef- pendence, who have a long record on leagues. fort to get Judge Gorsuch to prejudge the issue. I will not begrudge any Senator for not a matter that could be in the Fed- That is not just my view of Judge taking advantage of the privileges of- eral courts but to prejudge on a matter Gorsuch’s commitment to judicial fered to them under the rules of the that is in the Federal courts right now. independence, by the way; that is ac- Senate; however, I think we have Senator SCHUMER is not alone in cording to prominent Democratic law- ample reason to question some of our wanting to replace the Ginsburg stand- yers like President Obama’s top liti- colleagues’ judgment and priorities ard with a new double standard. His gator in the Supreme Court. with regard to how we have dealt with colleague who serves on the Judiciary This Democratic double standard, the nomination of Steven Mnuchin to Committee, the senior Senator from though, is not surprising. Recall that the Office of Treasury Secretary.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:32 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.009 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1102 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 Let’s get the obvious points out of Mr. Mnuchin placed some invest- I have always believed that . . . [the] the way. Mr. Mnuchin has 30 years’ ex- ments offshore, in full conformity with President—any President, regardless of perience working in a variety of capac- the law and not for the purpose of party—is owed a certain degree of deference avoiding U.S. taxes. But my friends when choosing people to work in his admin- ities in the financial sector. He has ex- istration. Therefore, though I personally perience managing large and com- have simply asserted that no one uses would have chosen a different person for this plicated private-sector enterprises and offshore financial vehicles unless they position, I intend to vote in favor of Mr. in negotiating difficult compromises are trying to avoid U.S. taxes, and, Lew’s confirmation. and making tough decisions—and being therefore, Mr. Mnuchin’s investments I wasn’t alone. Many other Repub- accountable for those decisions. He has disqualify him to serve as Treasury licans also voted to confirm Secretary the support of a number of key organi- Secretary. Yet Secretary Lew, prior to Lew, despite serious reservations, in zations and associations within the fi- his confirmation, actually made in- recognition that the President had a nance industry, and experts across the vestments in the famous Ugland House right to appoint who he wanted to—as ideological spectrum have endorsed his in the Cayman Islands, which Presi- long as they were not crooks and peo- nomination. dent Obama described as ‘‘outrageous’’ ple of unsavory reputation. Well, Mr. Long story short: Under any objec- and ‘‘the biggest tax scheme in the Lew was not either of those. tive standard, Mr. Mnuchin has ample world.’’ My Democratic colleagues My, how times have changed. As is experience, credentials, and qualifica- knew this, but did not care, and hap- typically the case, when a group of tions for this important position. Yet pily confirmed Secretary Lew with Senators is unable to make a believ- my colleagues have done all they can hardly a mention of this matter. We al- able case against a nominee, they tend under the rules—even to the point of lowed him to go through, in the inter- to just raise every possible issue and casting aside some longstanding cus- est of civility and getting along with hope something gains traction. When toms and traditions of the Senate—in our colleagues. in the end nothing works, they cling to Democrats have argued that Mr. order to delay his confirmation. whatever allegation came last and hope Mnuchin unduly profited from the I will not relive the entire chain of it is enough to change the outcome. housing market collapse. Yet Sec- events that got this nomination That is why, over the past couple of retary Lew, prior to his nomination, through the Finance Committee, bring- weeks or so, we have heard an awful lot ing us to this point. For now, I would ran ‘‘proprietary trading’’ groups at Citigroup, where they invested in a about ‘‘robo-signing.’’ urge my colleagues to look fairly at Here is the basic rundown of what hedge fund that bet heavily on the col- the record. In every case, as the com- has happened on this issue: My friends lapse of the housing market. My Demo- mittee processed his nomination, Mr. on the other side got an answer to a cratic colleagues knew this, but did not Mnuchin responded to questions and al- poorly and vaguely worded question care, and happily confirmed Secretary legations with full and complete an- that was not the answer they wanted Lew without really ever acknowledging swers and demonstrated no signs of to receive. The answer from Mr. this part of his record. acting or responding in bad faith to- Democrats claim that Mr. Mnuchin Mnuchin, that OneWest Bank did not ward the committee or its members. unfairly foreclosed on homeowners, de- engage in ‘‘robo-signing’’ under his People are free, I suppose, to walk spite evidence to the contrary. Yet leadership, was truthful and defensible, into the confirmation process with an Secretary Lew, prior to being nomi- but it did not conform to the Demo- assumption of bad faith. But through- nated, ran a Citigroup division that cratic talking points drafted for this out my time in the Senate—and keep was, according to arbitration panels at nominee. in mind, I have been here a long time— the Financial Industry Regulatory Au- Since that time, Senate Democrats that isn’t usually how we operate thority and later the SEC, ‘‘defrauding have repeatedly referenced new stories around here. investors.’’ When asked about the toxic that purportedly prove that not only My colleagues on the other side have securities sold by his Citigroup unit, did Mr. Mnuchin run a bank that en- put forward a number of claims and al- Secretary Lew’s answers varied be- gaged in the nefarious, yet not well-de- legations about Mr. Mnuchin. They tween not remembering any specific se- fined practice of ‘‘robo-signing’’ mort- have essentially thrown everything, in- curities to claiming he somehow wasn’t gage documents, he lied about it in his cluding the kitchen sink, at this nomi- involved in the investment decisions answers to the committee. However, I nee in a desperate attempt to block his made at the Citigroup unit he oversaw. would urge my colleagues on both sides confirmation. Well, so far, nothing has My Democratic colleagues knew this, to actually look at the supposed evi- worked. That is because none of the al- but they did not care, and happily con- dence from those news articles. legations my colleagues have raised firmed Secretary Lew without any- Put simply, to say that my Demo- can withstand even a modest amount thing resembling full and complete an- cratic friends are trying to make a of scrutiny. But that hasn’t stopped swers to these questions. mountain out of a molehill would be an some of them from trying. Despite ample evidence to the con- insult to moles everywhere. There is no I have found it particularly inter- trary, Democrats claim that Mr. molehill to be found here. esting to see my friends raise concerns Mnuchin ran a ‘‘robo-signing’’ fore- To make the case that Mr. Mnuchin about matters that did not bother closure machine. Yet Citigroup, while was untruthful in his answers, the arti- them in the least when it came to vot- Jack Lew was in senior management, cles rely on quotes mined from a single ing for Democratic nominees for Treas- sliced and diced mortgages and was al- deposition of a OneWest employee. ury Secretary. Indeed, with regard to leged to have ‘‘robo-signed’’ mortgage Quoted out of context, the employee Mr. Mnuchin, my Democratic col- documents. Democrats knew this, but seems to have said that she rapidly leagues have created a wholly new set they did not care, and happily con- signed several hundred foreclosure-re- of standards from those that were ap- firmed Secretary Lew without ever lated documents a week without fully plied to the most recent previous really asking him about these issues. verifying their accuracy. That is the Treasury Secretary. Many issues that I can go on and on. There are many supposed smoking gun on the Mnuchin seemed to be of little or no concern to other issues that my colleagues were ‘‘robo-signing’’ question. my colleagues and my friends on the willing to overlook, if not outright ig- However, if you read the full deposi- other side during the confirmation nore, with regard to Secretary Lew tion, the employee makes it absolutely process for Secretary Jack Lew have that have resulted in hyperbolic at- clear that she was not the employee re- been considered disqualifying for Mr. tacks on Mr. Mnuchin. sponsible for verifying the accuracy or Mnuchin. By the way, many of these I wish to remind my colleagues that validity of everything in the docu- problems existed in the prior Treasury despite the numerous concerns that I ments. She was part of a process that Secretary too. But we, in good faith, and others have had about Secretary included several steps and multiple em- brought him through and allowed him Lew and the many significant disagree- ployees to verify the accuracy of dif- to go through without a lot of fuss and ments that I had with President ferent parts of the documents. We don’t bother. Obama’s agenda, I voted in favor of even have to dig for this explanation. Let me review just a few of the dis- Secretary Lew’s confirmation. On this It is not a matter of any interpreta- crepancies that are claimed. very floor, I stated the following: tion. That explanation, in plain

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.011 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1103 English, is right there in the deposition banks’s error rates were routinely I intend to vote in favor of con- my colleagues and the news articles below the average for the industry and firming Mr. Mnuchin, and so should ev- have been using as ‘‘evidence’’ that Mr. often zero. erybody else in the U.S. Senate. I urge Mnuchin lied to the Finance Com- I think people should quit using false all of my colleagues to do so. mittee. arguments against this man. All of this When I first met Mr. Mnuchin, I Nothing—not a single thing—in the was discussed out in the open during hadn’t met him before. I didn’t even deposition quoted in those news arti- the Finance Committee’s hearing on know his name. I have to say I was cles could be considered evidence of the Mnuchin nomination. Nothing was really impressed. ‘‘robo-signing’’ on the part of OneWest hidden. No one was misled. I said to him: Why are you doing Bank. Unfortunately, rather than focusing this? You are going to lose a lot of While I can understand that my col- on the actual facts surrounding money because you are going to have leagues don’t like seeing or hearing OneWest’s performance under the to sell your holdings and get rid of anything that contradicts their pre- nominee’s leadership, my friends on them. Why are you doing this? conceived notions, particularly when it the other side opted to try to smear He looked at me, looked me square in comes in the form of an answer to one Mr. Mnuchin. In essence, they have the eyes, and he said: I am doing it be- of their questions, that is no basis or tried to relitigate the foreclosure cri- cause I love my country, and I want to justification to make wild and brazen sis, with Mr. Mnuchin’s company con- help. I want to help turn it around. accusations that a nominee has been fusingly placed in the crosshairs. This I was pretty impressed with that. I lying. And make no mistake, that is is a company that, according to a let- have been pretty impressed with Mr. precisely what they are doing with Mr. ter from Faith Schwartz, former execu- Mnuchin ever since. I think we need a Mnuchin. tive director of the Hope Now Alliance, terribly smart guy who is honest, who On a related note, it is really amaz- ‘‘was committed to avoiding fore- is decent, who has made a great success ing to me that my friends on the other closures where possible.’’ of his life, who understands where side are now feigning outrage over al- As I said, with Mr. Mnuchin, my col- money comes from and where it goes, leged lack of responsiveness to their leagues are applying a clear double who literally is willing to sacrifice and questions after having gone through standard for confirming a Treasury lose some of his savings and money in the last 8 years with Treasury Secre- Secretary. For Republican Treasury order to save this country and because taries who routinely ignored questions Secretary nominees, any allegation, no he wants to work with our good Presi- and requests for briefings posed by my- matter how careless or untrustworthy dent, who every day is going through self and a number of my other Senate the source, is enough to inspire the calumny and slanders like I have never colleagues. But I digress. Democrats’ outrage and trigger a seem- seen anybody go through before. I certainly sympathize with the ingly endless bout of name-calling. For The slowdown in the Senate that is many people who suffered through the Democratic nominees, on the other occurring here is unbelievably stupid. foreclosure crisis and with Democrats hand, even proven instances of ques- Yes, I know they want his first 100 days in Congress who were, and continue to tionable actions and poor judgment on to not be successful, but gee-whiz, to be, frustrated that Treasury officials in the part of the nominee fail to even do this kind of maneuvering and this the Obama administration failed to make a blip on their radar screens. kind of playing around with the facts is construct effective homeowner relief I have spent quite a bit of time in re- beneath the dignity of my colleagues programs, despite having made numer- cent weeks decrying the antics of my on the other side. ous promises to do so. Democratic colleagues with regard to If my side was doing this, I would be However, given that frustration, it is President Trump’s Cabinet nomina- chewing them up. The fact is, we didn’t odd to me that my colleagues remain tions. Frankly, I am tired of talking do this. The past two Treasury Secre- so opposed to Mr. Mnuchin’s nomina- about it. My colleagues are, of course, taries—I personally said ‘‘We are going tion when he was very much engaged in free to do whatever they think will to support them’’ even though we could the practice of making mortgage modi- help them hobble the new administra- have pulled this kind of stuff on them, fications work during his time as the tion and score points with their polit- and the facts were true. Both of them head of OneWest Bank. Moreover, Mr. ical base, even if it breaks from the were good people. Both of them had Mnuchin worked diligently with regu- longstanding customs and traditions of made a couple of mistakes. Both of lators and others to clean up the sys- the Senate and even if it puts our fi- them made mistakes in their filings. tem under which foreclosure docu- nancial stability and the stability of But they were good men, good people, ments were being processed. You don’t our relations with Finance Ministers of and so is Mr. Mnuchin. have to take my word for it; you can other countries at greater risk. How- Wouldn’t it be wonderful if both sides examine the numerous letters of sup- ever, they should know that these tac- would treat people with respect and port we have received from a range of tics do absolutely nothing to help dignity? I have to admit, sometimes people and organizations, from commu- American families seeking greater op- our side could do better, but what we nity groups to community bankers, portunities and economic growth. They have been going through for the last al- which attest to Mr. Mnuchin’s success don’t help us fix our broken Tax Code, most 2 months now is pathetic. I think in turning a bank that was plagued by reform our failing health care system, it is all done in the hope that they can toxic loans and numerous processing and empower businesses and job cre- ruin the first 100 days of this President. errors into a viable financial services ators to grow and expand. Well, there are 200 days, and we are firm that provides jobs and support to The bottom line is this: Mr. Mnuchin going to keep going. communities. is clearly qualified to serve as Sec- They are not making any headway Along the way, Mr. Mnuchin’s com- retary of the U.S. Treasury. with the President where they could panies significantly outperformed ri- Some of my colleagues on the other make headway. He is someone who ac- vals in the industry in terms of offer- side of the aisle made clear they intend tually came from their side of the ing loan modifications to help keep to vote no on the nomination, and that floor—at least at one time when I knew Americans facing foreclosure in their is their right. However, while each Sen- him long ago. He is a person with an homes. Mr. Mnuchin has acknowledged ator has a right to vote according to open mind. He is a person who has su- that his efforts were not without errors his or her own judgment, Senators do a preme intelligence. He is a person who and that he genuinely regrets any mis- disservice to the country and the Sen- is bringing with him some of the best takes that were made. He has also ate as an institution when they con- people in this country, not the least of made clear that OneWest was com- coct stories and antics designed merely whom is Mr. Mnuchin. mitted to providing remediation in to delay a vote for the sake of delay. I think they ought to wake up and order to compensate those who were af- Going forward, I hope my colleagues quit this slandering and even libeling fected. will recognize the problematic prece- this really fine man who is willing to It should also be noted that in the dence they are setting with regard to sacrifice much of his personal fortune vast majority of independent evalua- these nominees and opt to change to serve in this government as the tions of OneWest’s practices, the course. Treasury Secretary. We are lucky that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.012 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1104 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 people like this are willing to do it, to actions. We should take a lesson from That is in those estimates. So even take all the guff and calumny and slan- the past and recognize that there is no with economic growth, these proposals der and libel they have to go through. easy way to get our budget in better will greatly enhance the deficit of this Thank goodness we have people like balance. It requires a fiscal policy that country, something that we should not Mr. Mnuchin who are willing to do is fair—that is fair to middle-income be doing. this. I don’t intend to see him fail, so families, that is fair to our children What does that mean? You increase I hope we can all vote for him tonight and grandchildren, that is fair to those the debt of this country. America has and send a message. I hope some of my who depend upon the services that are to borrow more. Interest rates go up. colleagues on the other side will vote financed through the government sec- Middle-income families have to pay for him. They should. They should, in tor, including our seniors with Medi- more on mortgage payments or car good faith. Yes, they can play this care and Social Security. We can do loans. game of having a lot of votes against that if we work together. Middle income families are the ones him, but some of them should vote for But Mr. Mnuchin’s economic plan, who get hurt by this. If we are going to him. The truly honest, the truly fair, the one that he has submitted to Con- see real economic growth, we have to and the truly good people—I think all gress, I think, would put us at great help the middle class—the growing of them are good people on the other risk. The main part of what he is advo- middle class—the consumers, those side and on this side, but it is not cating is tax cuts primarily for the who buy the goods, those who are showing up as well as I would like it to wealthy. The top 0.1 percent under the struggling every day to make ends show up in these confirmation fights. Mnuchin plan will receive in excess of meet. This plan doesn’t help them. In this particular one, there is a fel- $1 million in tax breaks; the upper 1 What they are going to be saddled with low who is willing to sacrifice im- percent in excess of $200,000 in tax cuts. is more debt and higher interest costs, mensely to be able to help our country, Here is the problem: How do we pay which will be a drag on our economic who is known on Wall Street, who is for this? How do we offset the cost of growth. known as one of the bright lights up these tax cuts? Because I don’t think So for all those reasons, I think what there, who has been immensely suc- any of us wants to add to the deficit. is important to have is an advocate for cessful, and he has had a wide variety So we asked Mr. Mnuchin that ques- the President as Secretary of the of experiences in the area of finance. tion during the confirmation process. Treasury, someone who recognizes the We ought to be getting on our knees Let me just read for the RECORD the balance here. and thanking him for being willing to questions that I asked him as to how Let me tell you what else deficits do. go through this and being willing to he would offset the cost of the tax cuts. They are used as justification to con- serve his country. The Trump plan, including those cuts, tinue to cut our discretionary spending Mr. President, I suggest the absence is estimated by the Tax Policy Center accounts, as well as to take a look at of a quorum. to add $6.2 trillion to the deficit and by entitlement spending. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the Tax Foundation to add $3.9 trillion I acknowledge that, as part of the clerk will call the roll. to the deficit. strategy to balance the Federal budget, The bill clerk proceeded to call the I asked Mr. Mnuchin: we must look at our spending, but we roll. In your hearing, you discussed the impor- have to have the revenues in order to Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I ask tance of economic growth in offsetting the make it balance. If you don’t have the unanimous consent that the order for revenues lost under the President’s tax re- revenues, and you are taking another the quorum call be rescinded. form plan. . . . For instance, you’ve said, $4 to $6 trillion out of the equation, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘[s]o we think that by cutting corporate there is going to be a lot more pressure objection, it is so ordered. taxes, we’ll create huge economic growth to make irresponsible cuts on the and we’ll have huge personal income, so the Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I take revenues will be offset on the other side.’’ spending side. this time to explain to my colleagues Is it your view that the tax cuts in the I heard Candidate Trump talk about why I will be opposing Steve Mnuchin’s President’s plan will be fully offset by eco- that we are not going to cut Social Se- nomination for Secretary of the Treas- nomic growth? curity. But can you really have $6 tril- ury. That is the question I asked. lion of tax cuts without looking at So- Mr. Mnuchin has an impressive Mr. Mnuchin’s answer: ‘‘Our objec- cial Security? And how about Medi- record of accomplishment, and I ad- tive is to have any tax cuts offset by care? These are programs that are vi- mire his willingness to serve the pub- economic growth.’’ tally important for our seniors. It pro- lic. But because of his advocacy for fis- I asked: ‘‘If so, could you please share vides them money to live on so they cally irresponsible and unfair fiscal your team’s analysis supporting that don’t have to live in poverty, so they policies, which I believe will add to the position?’’ can pay their medical bills. For a ma- deficit of this country, I cannot sup- Mr. Mnuchin’s answer: ‘‘Our objec- jority of seniors, Social Security is port his nomination. tive is to have any tax cuts offset by their largest source of income. Are we Let me go back a while, if I may. I economic growth.’’ really thinking about equating that was in the Congress when we passed a I then asked: ‘‘Will you commit, as with tax cuts for the wealthiest in this budget that balanced the Federal budg- we discussed in our meeting, not to put country of over $1 million? I don’t et, where we were actually reducing forward a plan that will increase the think that is fairness. I don’t think the Federal debt. It was controversial deficit and put our country in a worse that is what we should be doing. at the time because we did it by cut- financial position?’’ When you look at the programs that ting spending first—and we did—but Mr. Mnuchin’s answer: ‘‘Our objec- are financed through government, are making sure we had adequate revenues tive is to have any tax cuts offset by we going to take away from our stu- in the Treasury to pay our bills be- economic growth.’’ dents? They already are suffering too cause we recognized that we had a In other words, there is no effort here high, as far as the cost of attending moral obligation to pay our bills, that to offset the cost of this tax cut, other colleges. Interest rates are already too we are wealthy enough of a nation that than borrowing money, putting our high in regards to what they do. we don’t have to ask our children and children and grandchildren at greater Are we going to put more pressure to grandchildren to pay for our spending risk. make more cuts in regards to how we today. We took the steps to balance the I want to repeat again the estimate help our students? Are we going to cut Federal budget, and we did it by mak- that we have heard on the President’s maintaining our highways? We want to ing some tough votes. I was proud to be tax proposal—that it will add anywhere spend more on highways, bridges, tran- in the Congress that took those tough from $6 trillion to almost $4 trillion in sit systems, and water infrastructure, votes that balanced the Federal budg- deficit. Those estimates are from pro- which I think we need to do. How do et. gressive and conservative groups, and you do that if you cut $4 to $6 trillion After we balanced the Federal budg- they do consider that there will be of revenue on the revenue side without et, we saw unprecedented economic some dynamic score keeping here, that adding greatly to the deficit, which is growth because we took the responsible there will be some economic growth. something none of us wants to do?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.013 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1105 How about something like our na- bottom line, and it seems that Mr. and Social Security to live on. We try to tional parks? We take pride and want Mnuchin doesn’t know this. When serv- save, but it is difficult. We are hoping that to maintain that, but with the pressure ing on the board for Sears, Mr. the pension will last more than 10 years, but on the budgets that is a result of tak- Mnuchin played a critical and direct who knows. ing the revenues out of government, we role in how to fund the company’s pen- I also hear from people in Michigan know what is going to happen. We have sions. So what happened? Sears rou- all the time about how little account- seen this movie before. We have seen tinely underfunded the company’s plan ability there is when it comes to the what has happened before. The driving throughout his tenure. Analysts pre- management of people’s pensions. force behind all of this is that the most dicted that Sears ‘‘massively under- One man wrote in from Macomb important thing, the most important funded’’ their pension plan. They said County about his own pension plan: part of the economic program, is to their ‘‘massively underfunded’’ pension Why are none of the trustees being held ac- have these tax cuts primarily for the plan was ‘‘a ticking time bomb’’ that countable for the bad investments or failure of the plan? I’m sure they all have their wealthy. could even hasten or bring down the fi- golden parachutes in place for when they re- No, I think the center of our eco- nancial collapse of the company. tire. Why do we, the hard workers, have to nomic policy needs to be fairness—fair- The company used investment return suffer because of their incompetence? I am ness for middle-income families, fair- projections that were too optimistic, just an average guy hoping that you can help ness so that Americans can afford to along with accounting gimmicks so protect the benefits that are due to me, so I raise their families and send their kids they could avoid paying into the pen- can enjoy retirement when my time comes. to college and can afford to have de- sion fund. They inflated their earnings The Treasury Secretary nominee sat cent opportunities in this country. on paper while contributing less to the on the Sears board when they were That is how we all grow together, and pension. making changes that created the in- that requires a balanced approach to Sears did such a bad job managing vestments that were not as good as our Nation’s budget—one that, yes, their pension fund while Mr. Mnuchin they should have been, when they un- looks at restraining spending but also was on their board, that the fund only derfunded their pension system, cut looks at having a Tax Code that is fair made a return of 1.5 percent, putting back on help for health care, and he is and raises the revenues to pay our bills their fund in the bottom 5 percent of asking for a promotion. I wonder what and not pushing that off to future gen- all the pension funds over $1 billion. Is my constituents in Macomb County erations. this the kind of result the American will be saying about that. I think for all those reasons, we need taxpayers want when he manages their The Treasury Secretary plays a very a person who is going to advocate on money? important role in the security of our behalf of middle-income families and Already, Sears has been cutting its pension system—one of the basic tenets on behalf of a growing economy. I employees’ pensions. In 2014, the com- in our country, the way we support think the plan that Mr. Mnuchin is ad- pany eliminated the monthly health each other, the way people have trust vocating will not accomplish that. For care subsidy that helped its retirees af- in the system, you know that when you these reasons and others, I cannot sup- ford their health care premiums. That pay into the pension and then when port his nomination for Secretary of saved Sears and Kmart about $6.2 mil- you retire you get the pension. the Treasury. lion a year. The Treasury Secretary oversees im- I suggest the absence of a quorum. I have received a lot of letters from plementation of the Multiemployer The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Michigan families a lot from families Pension Reform Act and serves on the clerk will call the roll. who are very concerned about their board of directors of the pension over- The legislative clerk proceeded to pensions. One of my constituents who seers. I asked Mr. Mnuchin in com- call the roll. worked in the trucking industry said: mittee: What is your position on the Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, I ask We took small raises on our paycheck each Multiemployer Pension Reform Act, unanimous consent that the order for contract so the company could put more in which Treasury is responsible for ad- the quorum call be rescinded. the pension fund— ministering? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without That is what people do. They take How do you propose to shore up our objection, it is so ordered. less every month in their paycheck so multiemployer pension system and pro- Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, the they can have more in the pension tect people who are counting on their Secretary of the Treasury is one of the fund. I know in the Presiding Officer’s pensions? His answer was: ‘‘You have most powerful positions in our govern- State and my State, that is what they my commitment to work with you to ment, as we know. The Treasury Sec- do. He continued— find solutions to the multiemployer retary has broad responsibilities—for and [we] were told we would receive a certain pension crisis.’’ the economy, for our tax system, trade, amount for the rest of our lives. That is what That is it. I resubmitted the ques- our pensions, housing, and so much we based our retirement on. Through no tion, hoping for a more detailed re- more. It is critical that anyone who fault of ours, over the years, government de- sponse. holds that position use their power to regulation of the trucking industry, passing His response was: ‘‘If confirmed, I help working people. It is clear to me trade agreements and other laws that have will consult with you and other inter- devastated the economy, have made our pen- that Mr. Mnuchin’s policies will, in sions become doubtful. ested parties on the Multiemployer fact, hurt middle-class families and Pension Reform Act of 2014.’’ Can you imagine paying all your life- working people. That is not much of an answer for the time? My brother drives a truck and There are also serious ethical con- people whom I represent, who want to counts on the fact that he is working cerns that neither he nor my Repub- know how he feels and what he is going hard every day and putting money into lican colleagues have been able to ad- to do to protect their pensions. The a pension fund for his family when he dress. As a result, I will be voting no on American people deserve a better an- retires, and it is supposed to be there, his nomination. swer than that. I would like to talk about something right? The pension is a promise that is People are struggling, retirees are that has not received the focus that I supposed to be there. struggling after trusting the system Another woman from West Michigan think it deserves and certainly that and paying into their pensions their wrote in worried about her Central the people of Michigan feel it deserves, whole life—the whole time they have States Pension Plan. That is the pen- and that is the question of pensions been working, paying in, counting on sion plan my brother is in as well. She and what is happening to pensions in having that dignity in retirement. We said: our country. need a Treasury Secretary who under- Mr. Mnuchin has a history of fighting My husband retired from Grocers Baking stands that a pension is a promise. Mr. against working people and profiting Co. of Grand Rapids and has a pension in Central States Pension Fund. As you know, Mnuchin’s actions have not dem- off their misfortune. As we know, pen- that pension fund is in critical status and onstrated that he understands that. sion funding can have a significant im- the Treasury Department turned down a Even when it comes to something as pact on a company’s bottom line. But plan to save all the pensions. My husband is basic as Social Security, during our Fi- losing a pension can destroy a family’s 74 and I am 78 and we rely on that pension nance Committee hearing, Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.014 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 Mnuchin couldn’t tell me the average Eventually, she said: ‘‘I received a I don’t mean to be flip, but this is so monthly benefit when I asked him, knock on my door and a man intro- shocking when I listen to some of this. which, by the way, one-third of our duced himself as the owner of my The idea that we would believe some- seniors virtually rely on that alone, house.’’ Unbelievable. Shortly there- one who says this, that it somehow is and the rest are putting together a after she had to leave her home. making sense—that is why we as small pension, and most seniors are OneWest was Mr. Mnuchin’s company. Democrats on the Finance Committee, counting on Social Security and their This is one of the many stories about before this final confirmation vote, pension to have dignity and a quality OneWest’s abusive conduct. When asked that he be required to come back of life in their retirement. The Treas- OneWest Bank sold, Mr. Mnuchin and in and answer questions, because these ury Secretary is a key overseer of the other investors made about $3 billion are serious questions. laws and management process and ac- off the backs of folks who lost their This nominee has not been properly countability for both of those systems. home and many were like the women vetted. He supports policies that do not So for me this is a very big deal who is we heard from who tried desperately to have the interests of the working men in this spot, in terms of how this af- work it out to keep their home. I won- and women in Michigan at heart or fects working people, middle-class fam- der if the checks they cashed from her people across the country. He adheres ilies, and retirees. after they said they didn’t get them to policies that don’t protect the pen- I didn’t mention earlier that when I were a part of that $3 billion. sions of hard-working men and women asked him what the average Social Se- Finally, I want to express my con- in Michigan and across the country or curity payment was—which he could cern over statements that Mr. Mnuchin people’s retirement systems. I don’t not answer—he also couldn’t tell me made at the Finance Committee hear- know where he really is on Social Se- what he meant about a ‘‘cut’’ in Social ing that just don’t line up with the curity, which is the other big piece of Security; if he wasn’t going to cut, facts; particularly, Mr. Mnuchin was the promise we made as Americans, what that meant. Did that mean put- asked whether his bank, OneWest, where people pay into Social Security ting in place a lower cost of living? robo-signed foreclosure documents. To and are counting on that being there. What did that mean? He did not answer be clear on what this is, the banks, He has personally profited off the mis- that. during the foreclosure crisis, had sworn fortune of those who need help the Let me talk about another pretty documents robo-signed, automatically most. basic area. Pensions are critically im- signed so they could foreclose on home- I urge my colleagues to join me in portant so is the ability to have a owners quickly without anyone even voting no. home. Up until the financial crash, the reading the documents. They just The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- disaster in 2008 and 2009, most families’ signed the papers—signed the papers— ator from Rhode Island. savings for retirement, savings to put nobody reviewed whether they added Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, I, their kids in college, were through the up or whether they were right, whether too, will be voting no on the candidacy equity in their home. In 2008 and 2009, of Mr. Mnuchin to become Secretary of for millions of Americans, that dis- they could help them. They just had the machine signing, signing, signing, the Treasury. appeared. Rhode Island got hit so hard by the Mr. Mnuchin has made his career foreclose, foreclose, foreclose. mortgage meltdown that Wall Street profiting from the misfortunes of work- Mr. Mnuchin said in the hearing his created. Frankly, I can never forget ing people, and let me talk about the bank didn’t do that. He said his bank the Rhode Islanders who lost their financial crisis and how he benefitted didn’t do that. The Columbus Dispatch homes in the course of that debacle. We from that as well. During the financial did an investigation that found that were able to help some of them in my crisis, he put together a group of inves- OneWest did do that in Ohio. A source office. tors to purchase IndyMac Bank, which in Texas reported that OneWest did do As the Presiding Officer knows, when was renamed OneWest. During that it in Texas. New Jersey temporarily you come to the Senate, you put to- time, OneWest was notorious for tak- banned OneWest from foreclosing on gether a constituent office, and your ing an especially aggressive role in homeowners at all in New Jersey be- constituent people work on usual con- foreclosing on struggling homeowners. cause of its history of robo-signing doc- stituent business. In the ordinary OneWest Bank pushed people into fore- uments. Sign, sign, sign—don’t look at course, constituent business is dealing closure and made their last-ditch ef- it, just sign away. We heard the story forts to save their homes through a of one woman who lost her house be- with Federal agencies. It is making mortgage modification or other means cause of a 27-cent difference. I wonder sure Social Security is fine, getting all but impossible. if she was in one of those piles they people replacement passports that they When their voices were not allowed just signed away. Mr. Mnuchin said put into the laundry by accident, deal- at the hearing on this confirmation, I they didn’t do that. There is evidence ing with veterans issues and getting was pleased to join with colleagues in to the contrary. veterans their benefits, helping people putting together a forum where home- Mr. Mnuchin also forgot to disclose with Medicare and Medicaid confusion. owners who had been impacted could to the committee that he owned a com- It is all generally involving people who share their experience. We held this pany organized in the Cayman Islands. have gotten somehow fouled up in the forum for homeowners who were re- When I asked him about that, his best Federal programs of which they are peatedly given hope by OneWest that defense was that ‘‘I did not use a Cay- beneficiaries. they might be able to avoid fore- man Islands entity in any way to avoid In our case, we had to open a con- closure, only to have it snatched away paying taxes myself.’’ At the time, I stituent wing for dealing with the big every time. One small business owner said: Oh, so you just helped other peo- banks because they were foreclosing so at the forum told us her story of how ple avoid paying their taxes. recklessly and in such a mercenary OneWest defrauded her and ultimately We find out now he did use it to help fashion on Rhode Islanders. It was such foreclosed on her. She told us that ‘‘de- foreign investors avoid paying U.S. torture for Rhode Islanders, once the spite how difficult OneWest made the taxes. I have a funny feeling that he foreclosure process began, because they process, I did everything I was told, be- made money by helping those investors could never get the same person twice cause I wanted to keep my home.’’ avoid paying their U.S. taxes. on the phone; there was always a mis- Twice she applied for a loan modi- He also forgot to disclose that he match between what they were being fication. She submitted two checks owned $95 million in real estate in var- told on the phone and being told on with her new modification offer. ious locations. I forget that all of the paper. It was a nightmare of bad infor- OneWest cashed the checks—they time. I have so many houses all over mation and bad practice by these big cashed the checks—but told her that the place, it is easy to forget. So $95 banks. both offers were never received. million in property that he ‘‘forgot’’ to What we would often be able to do is Wait a minute. What is that? They disclose. He said he didn’t know his to say: Look, at least give this person cashed the checks, then told her the of- real estate was an asset. He didn’t one person they can deal with, that fers were not received, and therefore know his real estate was an asset. That they can call every time so it is not the offer was void. is alarming. ‘‘Hi, I am John’’ on one phone call and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.017 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1107 ‘‘Hi, I am Mary’’ on the next phone call The story continues: is a market failure in this area—a mar- and ‘‘Hi, I am Joseph’’ on the third According to Barclays— ket failure—as current fossil fuel phone call and nobody ever remembers Barclays is a significant inter- prices arguably do not reflect the true the other phone calls, nobody ever national banking institution— costs of their extraction and use. knew where they were in the process. the fossil fuel industry could lose $34 trillion That is what we are fighting about You can’t move the process forward if in revenues by 2040 as a global deal to limit here. The fossil fuel industry has the the person on the other end of the line temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Cel- best racket going in the world. They can’t keep track of the conversation. sius reduces demand for oil, coal, and gas, re- are able to pollute like crazy, do im- So we were able to get that done, and turning reserves into stranded assets. mense damage in the world—damage that actually was able to help Rhode If, in fact, this is an industry that that coastal homeowners in Rhode Is- Islanders come to a deal with these big could lose $34 trillion in revenues by land, fishermen in Rhode Island, people banks and save their homes. But for all 2040, that explains a lot of their mis- who have breathing difficulties and are the ones we were able to help, there behavior around Congress. Obviously, trying to breathe on a hot summer day were many, many we were not. for that kind of money, there is very in Rhode Island—they all have to pay I simply cannot forgive somebody little mischief these folks wouldn’t get the price. who took a look at that banking crisis, up to, and sure enough, they are get- Under real market theory, the harm who took a look at the pain Wall ting up to all of that mischief, and of the product has to be in the price of Street sent in a wave across all of more, around here. But the financial the product for the market to work. America, and thought: Oh, here is a industry itself is pretty big, and it That is market 101. Well, they don’t great new way to make money—fore- doesn’t care. It is not going to be want to play by those rules. They want closing on people. pushed around and bullied. to have everybody else cover the harm Done. I am out. Sorry, I can’t vote This Task Force on Climate-related in their product, and they just get to for somebody like that. Financial Disclosure is described as shove it out into the marketplace with What I hope, though, is that he will having 32 members from large banks, the biggest subsidy in creation. at least show some common sense and insurance companies, asset manage- The International Monetary Fund is some decency when it comes to other ment companies, pension funds, credit not a bunch of stupid people, and the issues, and one of them is climate rating agencies, and accounting and International Monetary Fund, as far as change. consulting firms—32 members rep- I can tell, has no conflict of interest If you go to the financial sector, they resenting the 20 biggest economies in with respect to fossil fuel, unlike the are taking climate change pretty seri- fossil fuel companies, which are one the world, and they are saying: Here it ously. Frankly, the financial sector is massive example of a conflict of inter- comes. Let’s get ready. probably about as big as the fossil fuel So I hope colleagues will begin to lis- est. The International Monetary Fund industry, so when the fossil fuel indus- ten to these folks in the financial serv- says that the subsidy to the fossil fuel try comes around bullying and shoving ices industry and these major market industry every year—just in the United and lying and going through all of its economies about what is going on and States of America—is $700 billion—bil- usual climate denial nonsense, the fi- lion with a ‘‘b.’’ Like I said, how much stop listening to the self-serving non- nancial guys really don’t care. They mischief would they get up to for $700 sense that the fossil fuel industry in- just do their thing. You are not going billion? Oh, about $700 billion worth. sists on trying to jam into our ears to intimidate Goldman. You are not Is there a fix to this? Yes, continues going to intimidate BlackRock. You around here. It just is bogus. Bottom the BlackRock report. ‘‘The most cost- are not going to intimidate Bank of line: It is bogus. effective way for governments to meet Most recently, at the end of last America. It just doesn’t make any emissions reduction targets: Policy year, September 2016, BlackRock, sense. So when you look at what these frameworks that result in realistic car- which is one of the most significant in- guys are saying, they are being pretty bon pricing.’’ Market 101. Of course, vestment firms in the world—I think it straight up about it. they don’t want market 101, they want As long ago as 2013, Goldman Sachs has more than $1 trillion in assets fossil fuels subsidies 101, and we go issued a report that said: ‘‘The window under management—issued this new re- along with it because of the mis- for thermal coal investment is clos- port: ‘‘Adapting Portfolios to Climate chievous way they behave in politics. ing.’’ That is the caption of the report. Change.’’ OK. So BlackRock, one of the But we should not go along with it. It ‘‘Thermal coal’s current position atop smartest and biggest companies in the is not proper economics. It is not con- the fuel mix for global power genera- world, is now talking about how we servative. It is nothing except tradi- tion will be gradually eroded,’’ it said. have to adapt to climate change and tional, old-fashioned, special interests, And sure enough, it has been. There helping investors plan for it. In this special pleading. It is no different from was no grief for coal in there; they building, can we have a sensible con- any other polluter who wants to be were just trying to predict the market. versation about climate change? No, of able to dump their waste into the river In 2015, Goldman Sachs did another re- course not, because the fossil fuel in- or onto their neighbor’s yard or wher- port about the low-carbon economy. It dustry won’t even let some of us men- ever it is rather than having to pay for was ‘‘Goldman Sachs equity investor’s tion the words, but in the real world, cleaning up the mess they made. guide to a low carbon world, 2015–25.’’ where real money and real decisions We go on through the report: ‘‘The So unless somebody is going to say are being made by very smart people, world is rapidly using up its carbon that Goldman Sachs is in on the hoax, they are all over this. Here is budget,’’ says BlackRock. ‘‘The dam- they are taking this pretty seriously. BlackRock: ‘‘Adapting Portfolios to age from climate change could shave 5 From 2015 to 2025, they expect a low- Climate Change.’’ to 20 percent off global GDP annually Sentence No. 1 in the report: ‘‘Inves- carbon world. by 2100.’’ Up to a fifth of global GDP And it is coming on fast and furious tors can no longer ignore climate gone. That is a massive economic cor- now. Just recently, a global task force change.’’ rection. That is massive economic Investors can no longer ignore cli- was set up by the G20 companies—the pain. mate change. No, it takes Congress to 20 biggest economies in the world. ‘‘The economic impacts,’’ it goes on do that. Investors can no longer ignore They have a group called the Task to say, ‘‘are not just in the distant fu- climate change, but don’t worry, we Force on Climate-related Financial ture. More frequent and more intense will, as long as we are following the Disclosures. They have asked that extreme weather events, such as hurri- lead of our fossil fuel industry friends, companies begin to come clean on the canes, flooding, and droughts, are al- right over the climate cliff. climate risk they face. ready affecting assets and economies.’’ The news report about this says: The report continues that we can ex- For anybody just tuning in, this is pect more frequent and severe weather Concerns among the financial community not me making this stuff up, this is are growing that assets are being mispriced events over the long term—something BlackRock investments. because the full extent of climate risk is not that actually we are seeing already, They talk about global fossil fuel being factored in, threatening market sta- not only in the United States but subsidies—four times as large, they bility. around the world. They say that there say, as renewable energy support.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.018 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 Here is an interesting thing: ‘‘Scrap- A few folks who aren’t so gullible— Furthermore, a well-designed carbon ping energy subsidies could save gov- all Republicans—have just come out dividends plan, the second half, the ernments some $3 trillion a year, more with a very interesting report. Three of tax, would stimulate new investment than they collect from corporate them were Treasury Secretaries. Re- and ‘‘a well-designed carbon dividends taxes,’’ according to BlackRock. publican Presidents trusted these folks plan would further contribute to eco- So here we have the fossil fuel indus- with the conduct of the U.S. economy: nomic growth through its dynamic ef- try over there, and they are getting the Jim Baker, Secretary of the Treasury fects on consumption and investment.’’ biggest subsidy in the world—by IMF under President Reagan; Hank They definitely want to protect that calculations, $700 billion a year—and Paulson, Secretary of the Treasury one-to-one relationship so that all the the party that says it wants a more ef- under President Bush; and George money that comes in goes back out. ficient government and that ordinarily Shultz, Secretary of the Treasury That is the principle of my bill, as well, would like to reduce corporate taxes is under President Nixon. These men have and I am more than willing to live with defending that subsidy, even though some pretty impressive credentials. it. But the problems of failing to act that is taking money out of govern- Not only was he Secretary of the also need attention. ment more than corporate taxes. It is Treasury, but James Baker was also Since two of these gentlemen were quite astonishing. The BlackRock re- the Secretary of State. And not only Secretaries of State, we should take port gives such a window into Congress was George Shultz Secretary of the some interest when they say: ‘‘Our reli- by comparison, frankly. They conclude Treasury and Secretary of State, he ance on fossil fuels contributes to a here by giving some pretty dire warn- was also Secretary of Labor. less stable world, empowers rogue ings about where this goes if people These three former Treasury Secre- petro-states and makes us vulnerable aren’t preparing for climate change. taries have led a group of other inves- to a volatile world oil market.’’ They say: tors, including the former chairman of We have to address this issue for a Risk for the long-term investor . . . could the board of Walmart, the world’s larg- lot of reasons, and I couldn’t be more lead to a permanent loss of capital. The ef- est retailer and employer; Tom Ste- satisfied that these two Republican fects of climate change need to be part of phenson, a Republican who is a partner Secretaries of State have actually that equation, we believe. at Sequoia Capital, a very successful Yet even short-term investors would do made the connection that Thomas well to integrate climate factors into their venture capital firm out in Silicon Val- Friedman has made and that the De- portfolio. ley; and Greg Mankiw, who was Chair- partment of Defense has repeatedly So from Goldman Sachs on to man of George W. Bush’s Council of made in its ‘‘Quadrennial Defense Re- BlackRock, some of the most powerful Economic Advisers, so this is a very view’’ between our overreliance on car- and intelligent financial firms in the Republican group. They have a lot of bon and between the harms of climate world are telling their investors: Get experience. None of them holds elective change and a less stable world—a world ready for climate change. office now, so they don’t have to worry in which climate change is what the The last page of the BlackRock re- about the fossil fuel industry threat- Defense Department has so often called port says: ening to crush them in a primary or a catalyst for conflict. [C]urrent market prices arguably do not spend millions of dollars through They then reflect a little bit on what yet reflect the social costs of burning fossil phony-baloney front groups against is going on with their party: ‘‘The op- fuels. . . . This externality is at the core of them or any of the usual stuff that position of many Republicans to mean- the climate challenge. politicians have to put up with from ingfully address climate change re- The externality, of course, being that the fossil fuel industry as it fights to flects poor science and poor economics, you take the harm that you cause and protect that massive subsidy that we and is at odds with the party’s own instead of putting it in the price of have talked about already. noble tradition of stewardship.’’ Let’s go through this report by these your product, you make everybody else You would never know it nowadays, very senior Republican officials. The around you pay for it by being a pol- but the Republican Party was once the first sentence: luter. party of Teddy Roosevelt. They point Then they asked the question: Mounting evidence of climate change is out that ‘‘64% of Americans worry a What is the correct price of carbon? It is growing too strong to ignore. . . . For too long, many Republicans have looked the great deal or a fair amount about cli- hard to say. A 2015 U.S. government study mate change, while a clear majority of estimated $36 of economic damages for each other way. metric ton of carbon emitted. Yet estimates Indeed. They go on to propose a con- Republicans acknowledge that climate are rising: A 2015 Stanford University study servative climate solution—what they change is occurring.’’ points to $220 per metric ton. call a carbon dividends plan—which They go on to point out ‘‘that 67 per- I believe that our U.S. social cost of aligns actually fairly well with my cent of Americans’’—two thirds of carbon is running at about $45 per met- American Opportunity Carbon Fee Act, Americans—‘‘support a carbon tax with ric ton right now. And, by the way, it which I have put forward in the past proceeds returned directly to them.’’ has been upheld twice—at least twice— and am going to put forward in this Two thirds ‘‘of Americans support a by Federal courts. In fact, one court Congress as well. I hope, given its carbon tax with proceeds returned di- rather insisted that the social cost of alignment with this Republican leader- rectly to them, including 54% of con- carbon had to be baked into the under- ship on climate, that we might actu- servative Republicans.’’ lying rule; otherwise, the underlying ally begin to get some conversations So let’s not pretend that this is a rule couldn’t pass the test of being log- going here. We may have to go hide out partisan issue. It is not a partisan ical and fair and not arbitrary and ca- of State someplace so the fossil fuel issue. It is an issue in which a big spe- pricious. folks don’t find who is participating in cial interest has thrown incredible So there is the case from some of our the conversation and start punishing weight around to try to crush one side leading financial institutions about cli- them for doing so, but we will see how of the debate. But clearly, if 67 percent mate change. They have real money at that goes. of Americans supported anything and stake. They have real clients. They The recommendation basically is for 54 percent of conservative Republicans can’t engage in the kind of nonsense a carbon tax that collects revenue to supported that, we would probably be that we engage in around here about offset the cost of pollution that is not having a sensible conversation in the climate change not being real or not in the price of the product and then re- Senate about whatever that thing was. being important or being something turn it all to the American people We just can’t do it when that thing that there is still debate about or being through a big dividend. happens to be climate change because something that if we try to fix it, it is The report says: ‘‘A carbon tax would we have the fossil fuel industry out going to cost too much money. All of send a powerful market signal that en- there—powered up by Citizens United, that is total bunkum processed courages technological innovation and spending all that money—trying to through all sorts of advertising-type largescale substitution of existing en- protect that huge, huge subsidy that public relations firms by the fossil fuel ergy and transportation infrastruc- they enjoy. industry and sold to a gullible public as tures, thereby stimulating new invest- Finally, the report points out—and I if it were true. ment.’’ see the pages lined up here along the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.019 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1109 side of the podium: ‘‘Increasingly, cli- the Treasury. It is a nomination I sim- ceived and sent to companies for re- mate change is becoming a defining ply cannot support. view upward of 700,000 complaints from issue for this next generation of Ameri- The Treasury Department plays an consumers across the country, ranging cans, which the GOP ignores at its own essential role in the development of from abuses in debt collection and peril.’’ the economic policies that financially credit reporting, to student loans. I If this party wants to write off the secure the United States in world mar- worry about the future of the CFPB young generation as they follow the kets, that expand the opportunities under President Trump’s administra- fossil fuel industry off the climate cliff, available to all Americans, and that tion. Its value and importance in pro- there will be a very grave price to be help set the stage for a sound and tecting Americans from predatory paid. growing economy. Our country’s eco- practices, like those of OneWest, can- The report concludes: ‘‘With the nomic engine must be one that is ac- not be overstated. I cannot support a privilege of controlling all branches of cessible to all Americans, not just the Secretary who would unravel the re- the government comes a responsibility wealthy few. Regrettably, while Mr. forms we worked hard to enact and to exercise wise leadership on the de- Mnuchin may have a knowledge of the that protect the American people from fining challenges of our era, including inner workings of Wall Street, he the devastation of runaway corporate global climate change.’’ seems to know shockingly little of the greed. I don’t know where Mr. Mnuchin will hardships faced on Main Street. One For the last 8 years, we have focused lead on climate change at the Treasury need look no further than his role dur- with considerable success on rebuilding Department. There are a number of ing the height of the housing crisis in our economy. The unemployment rate ways in which the Treasury Depart- foreclosing on tens of thousands of is lower than it was before the finan- ment can be influential in this area. To American families. Reducing these ac- cial crisis. Small businesses are grow- my knowledge, he has never said any- tions to mere administrative matters ing. It is imperative that we continue thing about it yet. belies the true struggles of those who to make economic progress and that we It was not too long ago—2009—that a don’t boast the personal coffers Mr. find additional ways to help those who full-page advertisement ran in the New Mnuchin enjoys. I simply cannot ac- have been left behind, without return- York Times, a full page advertisement cept his explanation of his role in these ing to the destructive policies that that pointed out that the science of cli- actions. brought about the crisis in the first mate change was already, by then, to We cannot forget the devastation and place. I am not convinced that Mr. use the word in the advertisement, ‘‘ir- hardship that the recent financial cri- Mnuchin is the right nominee to lead refutable.’’ The science of climate sis brought upon our country, its peo- the Treasury Department and to con- change was ‘‘irrefutable,’’ the adver- ple, its neighborhoods, its small busi- tinue this forward progress. tisement said. nesses, and its communities. People Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, Then the advertisement went on to lost their homes and their jobs, and our today we consider the nomination of say that the consequences of climate markets crashed. Many have still have Steve Mnuchin, a multimillionaire change would be ‘‘catastrophic and ir- not recovered from those losses. As former Goldman Sachs executive, reversible.’’ That is another quote from Congress worked to find the answers, it hedge fund manager, and investor, to the advertisement: The consequences became clear that many large invest- be Secretary of the Treasury. In our of climate change were to be ‘‘cata- ment banks and insurance companies Nation’s history, the Treasury Sec- strophic and irreversible.’’ hid the insecurity of their finances retary was the first Cabinet official to On the one hand, you have science from stockholders and from the Amer- be confirmed by the Senate, when Alex- that is irrefutable; on the other hand, ican people. While many people lost ander Hamilton took his post in 1789. you have consequences of ignoring it their life savings, corporate executives The first Congress valued the Treas- that are catastrophic and irreversible. received outrageous severance pack- ury Department highly, giving it more Who signed that advertisement? None ages. As the country lurched into a fi- resources than all other government other than Donald J. Trump—not only nancial downward spiral, Mr. agencies combined. Today the mission he, but his children, Donald Trump, Mnuchin’s company, One West, admin- of the Treasury Department is to: Eric Trump, and Ivanka Trump, also istered aggressive foreclosure tactics ‘‘Maintain a strong economy and create all signed it. that added to the devastation of these economic and job opportunities by pro- families, including veterans. It was moting the conditions that enable economic The year 2009 was not that long ago. growth and stability at home and abroad, It is possible that the Trump family wrong. Mr. Mnuchin, in his testimony strengthen national security by combating could refer to what they knew in 2009 before the Senate Finance Committee, threats and protecting the integrity of the and perhaps take advice from a Treas- may have tried to convince the Amer- financial system, and manage the U.S. Gov- ury Secretary. I hope they take advice ican people that his was an innocent ernment’s finances and resources effec- from three Treasury Secretaries, but role in the crisis. But given that he tively.’’ we will see how that goes. could not provide a valid reason for While the Department always serves Perhaps Mr. Mnuchin can be a voice failing to disclose that he was the di- a critical function, it has been particu- to try to get the GOP out of the fossil rector of an offshore account worth larly vital in times of financial crisis. fuel hole it is in, aligned with the 67 more than $100 million, domiciled off- In 2008, in the wake of lax regulation percent of American voters who want shore in the Cayman Islands, I just and excessive speculation, a financial to see a revenue-neutral carbon tax, cannot buy what he is selling—and nei- crash shook our Nation’s economy. The aligned with the majority of Repub- ther can Vermonters. Treasury Department was a key player lican conservative voters who would In 2010, Congress worked hard to pass to pull us back from the brink and support that, and aligned with the ir- the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform keep the toxic contagion on Wall refutable nature of the science, and ad- and Consumer Protection Act. This Street from spilling over to Main dressing the catastrophic and irrevers- legislation included a number of finan- Street. We had to fight to ensure that ible consequences in this strange new cial reforms to change the way finan- the colossal failures of irresponsible administration in which the new nor- cial institutions and banks take on corporate executives would not wipe mal is abnormal. It is perhaps hard to risk, while adding protections for cus- out small businesses and citizens’ sav- expect much good to come, but let’s tomers of these institutions, and cre- ings. hope and let’s hope Mr. Mnuchin makes ating a new regulatory council in order At that time, my congressional office himself a part of the solution rather to provide more effective oversight of helped hundreds of homeowners facing than just a part of the climate-denial the industry. President Trump has in- foreclosure, working them through the problem that so infects us, particularly dicated that he will seek to roll back loan modification process, helping here in Congress. Dodd-Frank regulations, and Mr. track down missing documents, and I yield the floor. Mnuchin reinforced this pledge in front following up again and again with Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, today the of the Finance Committee. Since its in- banks to make sure that paperwork Senate will confirm the nomination of ception in 2011, the Consumer Finan- was processed. We held a foreclosure Steven Mnuchin to be the Secretary of cial Protection Bureau, CFPBP, has re- prevention forum to connect people to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.021 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1110 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 housing counselors. For too many, this ‘robo-sign’ documents.’’ But in a depo- hedge fund industry. Will he serve as a process was extremely difficult, tre- sition, a OneWest executive admitted check on the impulse to reopen bank- mendously confusing, and, in some to personally robo-signing hundreds of ing to greater risk? In an interview cases, deliberately misleading. While documents, even shortening her signa- with CNN’s Squawk Box after his nom- my office was always ready to help, ture to her initials to speed the process ination, he said, ‘‘We want to strip there was no reason why congressional even further. back parts of Dodd-Frank and that will intervention should have been nec- Thanks to these draconian practices, be the number one priority on the reg- essary to help families modify their Mr. Mnuchin made a tidy $1.5 billion in ulatory side,’’—the number one pri- payments to stay in their homes. profit when he and his fellow investors ority. Where was Steve Mnuchin at this sold OneWest after 6 years. It is unclear how Mr. Mnuchin, Mr. time, when families across the Nation In the aftermath of the devastating Cohn, and President Trump plan to re- were struggling? He was profiting from 2008 financial crisis, Congress worked shape financial regulation, how much it. In 2009, he joined a group of billion- to reform the system with the Dodd- risk they plan to reintroduce to the aire-investors to buy IndyMac, a failed Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- markets, and whether they would en- bank that the Federal Deposit Insur- sumer Protection Act. Congress in- sure adequate safeguards for consumers ance Corporation had taken over. The tended the law to reduce the kind of and investors. We do know, however, investors turned it into OneWest Bank, risk and recklessness that led to the that Mr. Mnuchin and Mr. Cohn are and they turned it into what the Cali- crisis and strengthen Federal oversight cozy with Wall Street and Big Banks, fornia Reinvestment Coalition called of Wall Street and Big Banks. Congress and it appears now that Mr. Trump’s ‘‘a foreclosure machine.’’ created the Consumer Financial Pro- talk about reining in Wall Street was Though the majority did not permit tection Bureau to be a watchdog for ev- just talk. the California Reinvestment Coalition eryday Americans and prevent preda- In addition to the need to continue to testify at an official hearing on Mr. tory lending and unscrupulous behav- sensible oversight of the financial sys- Mnuchin’s nomination, the coalition’s ior by financial institutions. It began tem, the next Treasury Secretary will Paulina Gonzalez spoke with a number regulation of exotic financial deriva- have to confront one of the greatest of Senators at a forum on Mr. tives that contributed to the crisis by challenges of our time—growing in- Mnuchin’s bank. Ms. Gonzalez told us masking risk and established the come inequality, wealth inequality, that OneWest was among the worst. Volcker rule to place limits on ways and wage stagnation. OneWest denied more applications than that banks can invest to minimize con- According to an Economic Policy In- most for the Home Affordable Modi- flicts of interest and high-risk trans- stitute Analysis of data from the Bu- fication Program, the government pro- actions. reau of Labor Statistics and Bureau of gram to help homeowners avoid fore- While Congress can certainly do more Economic Analysis, from 1948 until closure by adjusting their payment to improve consumer and investor pro- 1973, worker productivity and com- schedule. Ms. Gonzalez told us, ‘‘We tections and ensure that no bank is pensation rose at roughly similar ever ‘‘too big to fail,’’ Dodd-Frank is a have labeled OneWest a ‘foreclosure rates—productivity increased by 96.7 critical reform. And since the day it machine’ not only because it foreclosed percent and hourly compensation in- passed, Republicans in Congress have on more than 60,000 American families creased by 91.3 percent. Starting in attacked it, seeking to roll back its and because of its aggressive fore- 1973, however, growth in worker pro- protections, weaken the Consumer Fi- closure practices, but because it ductivity and wages began to diverge nancial Protection Bureau, and reduce seemed to do little else.’’ dramatically. Between 1973 and 2013, Consider some of the heartbreaking the oversight of the speculative trans- productivity increased by 74.4 percent, foreclosure stories that OneWest left in actions that increase risk in our finan- but hourly compensation increased by its wake. cial markets. A 90-year-old Florida woman lost her President Trump has called Dodd- just 9.2 percent. Not everyone, however, saw stagna- home after making a 27-cent payment Frank a ‘‘disaster’’ and vowed to ‘‘do a tion. The wages of the top 1 percent of error. big number on it.’’ And last week, Christina Clifford attempted to mod- President Trump signed an Executive earners grew 138 percent between 1979 ify her loan twice. Each time that she order directing a review of Dodd-Frank and 2013, once again, according to anal- sent in her check with the paperwork, regulations. ysis by the Economic Policy Institute. OneWest told her that her paperwork By his side at that moment was Gary In that same time period, the wages of was not received—even though the Cohn, who was co-president of Goldman workers in the bottom 10 percent actu- bank cashed the check that was in the Sachs during the financial crisis. As ally dropped by 5 percent. same envelope. detailed in a report by the Senate Per- In 1965, an average company CEO A Minneapolis woman was in the manent Subcommittee on Investiga- made 20 times the salary of an average, process of negotiating a loan modifica- tions, Goldman survived the crash in nonmanagement worker. In 2014, the tion when she came home in a blizzard part by betting against its own cus- average CEO made 303 times the salary and found that her locks had been tomers and sticking them with bad of an average worker. changed. mortgages. In 2006, they saw trouble Many Americans feel that they are OneWest and its subsidiary Financial coming in the subprime mortgage mar- working harder than ever, but they Freedom were also notorious for what ket and realized that they were over- aren’t getting ahead. Too often, they came to be called ‘‘widow fore- invested. So they packaged the bad are right. They are taking on more and closures.’’ They lured seniors into re- deals into new mortgage-backed prod- not getting compensated for the extra verse mortgages signed by one spouse ucts and dumped them. In 2009, one an- effort. We need policies to help average of a married couple. When the spouse alyst called Goldman ‘‘a single under- workers, like increasing the minimum who signed the paperwork died, writer solely interested in pushing its wage, fair pay, and improvements to OneWest and Financial Freedom would dirty inventory onto unsuspecting and the Tax Code to encourage hard work immediately begin the foreclosure gullible investors.’’ rather than simply rewarding those process, sending out notices in as little President Trump’s adviser Gary Cohn who make money off of money. as 10 days to widows and widowers. was a leader of Goldman Sachs at that Is Mr. Mnuchin the right person to Another egregious bank practice dur- time. Now, after walking away from address this problem? His experience is ing the foreclosure crisis was ‘‘robo- Goldman Sachs with a $285 million pay- certainly different from that of the av- signing.’’ Mortgage officials would out, he has become chair of the Na- erage worker. The son of a Goldman speed through foreclosure documents tional Economic Council. Mr. Cohn is Sachs banker, he has accumulated and sign off without reviewing their ac- at President Trump’s side to work to enough wealth that he forgot to dis- curacy. This practice all too frequently unravel the reforms that Congress put close a hundred million dollars in as- led to the bank powering through as in place to stop bad behavior of banks sets to the Finance Committee. He has many foreclosures as possible. like Goldman Sachs. said little about his ideas for tax re- Mr. Mnuchin told the Finance Com- Mr. Mnuchin also worked at Goldman form, except creating what my col- mittee that ‘‘OneWest Bank did not Sachs and continued to work in the league Senator WYDEN has dubbed the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.009 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1111 ‘‘Mnuchin Rule.’’ In an interview, Mr. group of our nation’s Capital has Mr. Mnuchin was the head of the Mnuchin said of tax reform: ‘‘Any re- reaped the rewards of government company that was doing the fore- ductions we have in upper-income while the people have borne the cost.’’ closure. After our country experienced taxes will be offset by less deductions, President Trump is right. The people the worst economic downturn since the so there will be no absolute tax cut for have borne unimaginable costs: the Great Depression, Congress worked the upper class.’’ I would certainly wel- cost of foreclosure, the cost of inequal- around the clock to prevent the econ- come that outcome. Unfortunately, it ity, the cost of poverty, and the cost of omy from going into free-fall and end is totally inconsistent with the Trump injustice. Sadly, it doesn’t look like some of the worst practices that helped tax plan. that is going to change soon with this bring the American economy to its According to Matt Gardner, a senior administration. Three weeks into this knees. fellow at the Institute on Taxation and administration, President Trump has As we were working to save Amer- Economic Policy, President Trump’s already begun to restore power back to ican homes, Mr. Mnuchin—like Presi- tax plan is heavily weighted to benefit Wall Street and the very same people dent Trump—saw opportunity to make the wealthy, leading to ‘‘a new era of who he said have caused tremendous a profit, personally earning millions dynastic wealth.’’ A report from the problems for us. The nomination of from OneWest’s success as a fore- Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center Steve Mnuchin, someone who spent his closure machine. concluded that President Trump’s plan entire career working on behalf of Wall As the head of OneWest, Mr. Mnuchin would ‘‘significantly raise taxes’’ for Street at the expense of hard-working had the power to destroy lives through about 8.5 million families, particularly Americans, is a clear example. foreclosure or find ways to help home- working single parents. In contrast, Let me say at the outset, I have not owners stay in their homes. He chose the wealthiest one percent would re- met him, but I tried to, but we couldn’t to aggressively foreclose on families. ceive 47 percent—almost half—of the get an agreement as to when we might During his nomination hearing, Mr. tax cuts, saving on average $214,000. be able to get together. I wanted to Mnuchin defended OneWest’s fore- The 117,000 households in the top 0.1 talk to him about some important closure practices and said he was proud percent would receive, on average, a issues that many of us remember. of the work of the bank during the whopping $1.3 million each. We know what happened with the re- foreclosure crisis. In addition to exacerbating the prob- cession that greeted President Obama Let me tell you about some of the lem of income inequality, the Trump when he was sworn into office 8 years stories, and you can decide whether tax plan would add $7 trillion to the ago. We know about the foreclosures. Mr. Mnuchin should be proud of the national debt over the next decade. It We know of families being literally record of the company he was man- would blow a hole in our Federal budg- wiped out, all their savings gone be- aging. et to give big checks to the super- cause of misleading tactics by fin- Rex Schaffer and his wife Rose lost wealthy, provide limited benefit to the anciers. their home of nearly 50 years, despite middle class, and hurt low-income fam- I still look at this, and as much as I having qualified for a loan modifica- ilies. respect President Obama and his ad- tion. This is entirely backwards. We have ministration, I shake my head and Ossie Lofton, a 90-year-old woman, learned over and over again that mas- think: Nobody went to jail for all that was foreclosed on because she was sive tax cuts for the wealthy do not occurred. People at the highest levels short 27 cents in her mortgage pay- lead to economic growth for everyone. of the financial community on Wall ment—27 cents. Trickle down has never worked. We Street and others were engaged in The locks were changed on Leslie need to build an economy that works practices that we know now were un- Park’s Minneapolis home in the middle for everyone, not just the very fair and just plain wrong and, in many of a blizzard. wealthy. And we certainly should not cases, illegal. We have seen how organizations be rewarding the wealthy at the ex- I have taken a look at Mr. Mnuchin’s headed by Mr. Mnuchin treat people. If pense of everyone else. record. I have read a lot of stories confirmed, Mr. Mnuchin would have Given what little we know of Mr. about him. I have heard from home- the ability to use the power of the U.S. Mnuchin’s policy priorities, we have to owners’ personally impacted by his Treasury Department to stand on the look to his career to determine his ex- conduct, and let me tell you, what I side of Wall Street and on the opposite perience to carry out the mission of have seen and heard leads me to be- side of millions of working Americans. the Treasury to create economic and lieve he is not the right person to be I don’t have confidence, based on his job opportunities and sustain economic Secretary of the Treasury. professional record, that Mr. Mnuchin growth. Unfortunately, Mr. Mnuchin Like most of President Trump’s will put the needs of hard-working fam- appears to have had a canny ability to nominees, Mr. Mnuchin was not chosen ilies first over Wall Street. take advantage of the dire cir- for his knowledge and experience on While the foreclosure crisis and its cumstances of others to benefit him- critical issues he will face if confirmed aftermath seem like something in the self, particularly in pushing aggres- as Secretary of the Treasury. He was past for so many people, that is not the sively for foreclosures at OneWest. It is not chosen for his commitment to case in my home State of Illinois. far from clear that he is willing to now work for average working families. He Foreclosures are devastating for the work on behalf of all Americans and es- was chosen for his loyalty to the Presi- families forced out of their homes, but pecially those who have been working dent, the new litmus test in the Repub- they are also devastating to sur- harder and receiving no return. I hope lican Party. rounding communities and neighbor- to be proven wrong, but I cannot sup- Before serving as President Trump’s hoods. port his nomination. chief fundraiser on the campaign, Mr. If you want to know what a commu- Mr. WHITEHOUSE. I suggest the ab- Mnuchin worked to help wealthy indi- nity looks like 50 years after the fore- sence of a quorum. viduals and powerful special interest closure crisis, visit my birthplace, my The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. groups reap the benefits of what the hometown of East St. Louis, IL, or ERNST). The clerk will call the roll. President has called ‘‘a rigged system.’’ even some of the neighborhoods on the The bill clerk proceeded to call the He served as an executive at Goldman south side of Chicago, or the west side, roll. Sachs and as a hedge fund manager. for that matter—vacant lot after va- Mr. DURBIN. Madam President, I ask Perhaps what troubles me the most cant lot, neglected buildings and unanimous consent that the order for about Mr. Mnuchin’s experience is his homes, an economy devastated. And the quorum call be rescinded. tenure at the helm of a group known as what is left? Some of the poorest fami- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without OneWest, which came to be known as a lies on earth. objection, it is so ordered. foreclosure machine in America be- While we have made significant Mr. DURBIN. Madam President, on cause of the aggressive and question- progress since the recession of 2008, January 20, at his inauguration, Presi- able practices it used to foreclose on many families in my State and across dent Trump stood before the American the homes of thousands of American the country are still suffering. There is people and said: ‘‘For too long, a small families. work to do. If confirmed, Mr. Mnuchin

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.009 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1112 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 will be responsible for protecting these Dr. David Shulkin to be confirmed soon cantly more cost effective, as well. And families and ensuring that we don’t as the next Secretary of the Depart- most veterans across the country pre- have another financial crisis. All we ment of Veterans Affairs. We all know fer their veteran-centric health care have seen from him is his ability to the Veterans Affairs Department faced that they receive in the VA. Despite profit from the foreclosure crisis and a number of challenges in recent years: what some may claim, most of them do the devastation left in its wake. In the long waiting times, disability claims not support privatization. I want to be aftermath of the financial crisis of 2008, backlogs, issues related to account- clear that this includes a myriad of ef- Congress got together with the Presi- ability, whistleblowers, and the quality forts under the guise of expanding ac- dent and passed Dodd-Frank. This was of care. The list is too long. As the sec- cess or choice. Wall Street reform determined not to ond largest Federal agency, employing So I hope my colleagues will join me let another economic crisis follow. The more than 350,000 people across Amer- in supporting Dr. Shulkin to be the consumer protection act was also ica and serving as our largest inte- next VA Secretary. I shared then- passed to prevent these crises and to grated health care system, some chal- President Obama’s sentiment that he reform the problems that caused them. lenges are unavoidable. was the right person to head up the Mr. Mnuchin has made no secret of As the VA provides for the brave men Veterans Health Administration back the fact that his No. 1 regulatory pri- and women who fought and sacrificed in 2015, and I believe he is the right ority is to roll back Wall Street re- for this country, as well as their fami- person to head the VA today. form, to return the barbarians to the lies, it is critical that it be held to a Just 3 days ago, I was in Marion, IL, gates. Despite the promises President high standard. We in Congress must and visited our veterans hospital there. Trump made during his campaign, in- work to ensure that, in addition to I met with the administrator. Ms. cluding ‘‘not letting Wall Street get holding the Department to a high Ginsberg told me she knew of Dr. away with murder,’’ Mr. Mnuchin has standard, we also ensure that it is well Shulkin and had high regard for him. an ally in President Trump in undoing funded and that it has the tools and That came as high praise from someone Dodd-Frank. President Trump signed flexibility to do the job. who is on the front line of serving an Executive order that would begin It is critical that we strengthen the thousands of deserving veterans in rolling back the important consumer VA system and not weaken it through southern Illinois every single day. So and financial system reforms we passed privatization, which would only lower her endorsement helped me to come as part of Dodd-Frank. The President the quality of health care for our vet- forward today and to commit that I signed this order sitting among the erans. That is why I am pleased with will be voting to make sure that Dr. biggest beneficiaries of his actions, the nomination of Dr. Shulkin by Shulkin gets this opportunity to head some of Wall Street’s high rollers. President Trump to be the next Sec- the Veterans Affairs agency. Make no mistake, if President Trump retary of Veterans Affairs. I yield the floor. gets his way and Steven Mnuchin is Despite years of people playing poli- I suggest the absence of a quorum. confirmed, the banks are going to have tics with the VA—efforts which have The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the best friend they can think of in the only been counterproductive and have clerk will call the roll. Treasury Department, just like they made it difficult for the VA to fill crit- The senior assistant legislative clerk did before the economic crash of 2008. ical vacancies—and despite months of proceeded to call the roll. It is clear the American people can’t President Trump’s talking about pri- Mr. MERKLEY. Madam President, I count on Mr. Mnuchin, based on his vatization without offering real solu- ask unanimous consent that the order business experience, to decide with tions, today we have a nominee who for the quorum call be rescinded. them over Wall Street. But, certainly, appears to understand that, while there The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without he should be committed to basic fair- is a role for expanded care options, objection, it is so ordered. ness of the Tax Code. He said he was weakening or dismantling the VA is Mr. MERKLEY. Madam President, until he wasn’t. Shortly after his nomi- not the answer. I was heartened by Dr. even now, more than 2 months after nation, Mr. Mnuchin said there would Shulkin’s commitment during his hear- then President-Elect Trump nominated be ‘‘no absolute tax cut for the upper ing in the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Steven Mnuchin to be Treasury Sec- class.’’ Yet he has not spoken out Committee on February 1, where he retary, I still find it hard to believe. against the significant tax cuts the said: ‘‘The Department of Veterans Af- Month after month out on the cam- wealthy would receive from the repeal fairs will not be privatized under my paign trail, President Trump attacked of the Affordable Care Act or under the watch.’’ Wall Street. He said, time after time, President’s and the House Republican’s Dr. Shulkin may not be a veteran that he was going to take on Wall tax reform plan. We shouldn’t be sur- himself, but I am encouraged by the Street. He attacked his opponents in prised by this because we are asking fact that he comes from a military the primaries and in the general elec- Mr. Mnuchin to close the loopholes and family and has decades of medical ex- tion by saying that they were too close raise the taxes on the very people he perience, including serving for 2 years to Wall Street and, specifically, too helped to avoid paying taxes by using under former VA Secretary Robert close to Goldman Sachs. offshore tax havens as a hedge fund McDonald as head of the Veterans He said, regarding Secretary Clinton: manager. Health Administration after being She will never reform Wall Street. I We are still recovering from the dev- nominated by President Obama. May I know the guys at Goldman Sachs; they astation of that financial crisis 8 years add that he left a lucrative private sec- have total control. But he countered ago. We can’t afford to have our Na- tor job and took a huge pay cut to join this by saying that he would do it dif- tion’s top economic official be a man the VA. ferently. He promised to take on Wall who has only been looking out for Wall It is no surprise that a number of vet- Street. He promised to fight for mid- Street. For a President who ran on erans service organizations actively dle-class Americans. He promised to bringing back jobs and being a cham- support his nomination. Although drain the swamp and reduce and elimi- pion of the working people, the choices progress has been made in recent years, nate the powerful entrenched special of President Trump for his Cabinet are there are still challenges at the VA interests here in Washington, DC. the opposite and have taken advantage that we need to continue to address. I But what a change can happen within of the very system he has derided as worry about the veterans’ health care, a few weeks. Less than a month after rigged against the people. education, homelessness, account- winning the Presidency—I should point The American people deserve better. ability, and a host of other issues. I out, winning the electoral college but When Mr. Mnuchin’s nomination is look forward to working with Dr. losing by a massive margin the popular brought to the Senate floor for a vote, Shulkin on these matters. vote, the citizen vote—who does Mr. I will vote no, and I urge my colleagues But we must not forget that, overall, Trump pick to be Treasury Secretary? to do the same. in terms of health care, the VA is con- A 17-year Goldman Sachs veteran, a NOMINATION OF DAVID SHULKIN sistently found to provide care in key foreclosure king—Steve Mnuchin. Madam President, I want to take a areas that is better than or on par with So here tonight, not even a decade moment to address the nomination of care in the private sector. It is signifi- after the second worst financial crisis

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.024 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1113 in U.S. history, we will be holding a of discriminating against minority house in Penn Hills in 2012; a Pitts- vote on whether Steve Mnuchin is a fit home buyers, running a bank with a burgh house was foreclosed in 2011. character to be Secretary of the Treas- record of discriminating against mi- These are all communities in Alle- ury. nority neighborhoods. gheny County, Southwestern Pennsyl- What is particularly puzzling is not So for all these reasons, this is the vania, and Nellie was from Westmore- only the Goldman Sachs background, wrong man; the wrong man because he land County, which is just to the east in contrast with the President’s cam- does not fit the promise the President of Allegheny County. So that is what paign promises, but also that this indi- made to take on Wall Street; the wrong the article summarizes—foreclosures vidual was a contributor to many of man because he participated in de- throughout a corner of Southwestern the predatory practices that nearly de- stroying our economy, which harmed Pennsylvania, as the headline says, stroyed our economy in 2008, and he is millions of American families; and the hundreds of foreclosures. someone who made a fortune throwing wrong man because he wants to dis- The article starts with this line: struggling American families out of mantle Dodd-Frank, which had been ‘‘Critics say President-elect Donald their homes and onto the streets. put together specifically to end the Trump’s pick for treasury secretary, I am somewhat shocked we are here predatory practices, including the ille- Steven Mnuchin, ran a foreclosure ma- tonight and that some of my colleagues gal robo-signing he participated in. chine at a major bank,’’ and it goes on are considering voting to put a man in This individual has no business over- from there. That is one in Pennsyl- charge of our Nation’s financial system seeing the financial future of the vania, and then references to fore- who played such a role in bringing it to American people so I will be voting no closures that I read from are sum- its knees just a couple of years ago. on his confirmation, and I passionately maries of what happened to some oth- Let’s remember the massive impact urge my colleagues to do the same. ers. on American families. They lost jobs Mr. President, I suggest the absence Then we go to the other end of the by the millions. The unemployment of a quorum. State. This is in Southeastern Pennsyl- rate soared. They lost their retirement The PRESIDING OFFICER. The vania, the region within which Phila- savings and often they lost their clerk will call the roll. delphia sits. In this case, the individual homes—not just because they lost their The senior assistant legislative clerk is Ruth Guerriero. Ruth is from South jobs and couldn’t pay their mortgage proceeded to call the roll. Philadelphia, and she remembers the but because of the predatory design of Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, I ask day she got the letter that ‘‘scared me the mortgages. unanimous consent that the order for to death.’’ The letter threatened a fore- So I am shocked that I am here to- the quorum call be rescinded. closure because of a reverse mortgage night and we are holding this vote and The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. that she didn’t know existed. The head- that we are particularly considering an MORAN). Without objection, it is so or- line of this article is ‘‘Reverse-mort- individual who worked to tear down dered. gage nightmare can start after bor- the protections and throw American Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, I ask rower dies.’’ families to the Wall Street wolves. unanimous consent to speak as in In this case, Ruth lost her husband. Maybe we should have a Treasury morning business. The article says that this particular Secretary who succeeded in the past to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without piece of mail in October 2013 was from build up the economy, not one who par- objection, it is so ordered. OneWest Bank, informing Ruth that it ticipated in tearing it down. Maybe we Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, I rise this was foreclosing on the house in the 2800 should have a Treasury Secretary who afternoon to speak about the nomina- block of South Hutchinson Street that worked hard to put tens of thousands tion of Steve Mnuchin to be Secretary she and her late husband had bought in of people into homes, rather than of the Treasury and the concerns I 2006 for $200,000. Without her knowl- someone who personally profited by have about his nomination. edge, Ruth Guerriero said, her hus- throwing tens of thousands of Amer- I want to start with a Pennsylvania band, 23 years her senior, had taken ican families out of their homes. I story. It is a story we wish we didn’t out a reverse mortgage in September would be feeling much better about the have to highlight, but it is relevant to 2007. It goes on from there. vote we are holding tonight if that was the discussion and debate on this nomi- So anyone who has had that experi- the case because the American people nation. ence of losing a home or becoming the have endured too much pain and suf- I am looking at a document that is a victim of a reverse mortgage when you fering at the machinations of Wall written summary of a television inves- didn’t have prior knowledge can relate Street. tigative news report from January of to what has happened to these individ- I thought we had perhaps learned our this year. It is from the Pittsburgh tel- uals. This is part of the debate. These lesson. We worked hard to pass the evision station WTAE, and it is dated are not the only considerations we Dodd-Frank reforms that would end January 16, 2017. The headline on the weigh, but when you have, in this case, those predatory mortgages, that would document is ‘‘Trump Pick for Treasury a nominee for Treasury Secretary who end those liar loans, that would end Secretary Foreclosed on Hundreds of comes into the nomination process not those teaser rate-exploding interest Homeowners in Western Pennsyl- having held public office or not having rate loans that brought families to vania.’’ The article says in pertinent held appointed government office, this their knees, that would end the securi- part about this one Pennsylvanian: is part of the record you are to review. ties designed in such a fashion that you Nellie Mlinek lost her husband to cancer. It is really the only record—the record couldn’t evaluate whether they were She lost her son to an overdose. And then she in this case as a banker or a business- AAA or AA, that would end this proc- lost her home to OneWest Bank. person, and in his case, his work on ess and this formulation that turned It goes on to describe the interaction Wall Street. the dream of American homeownership between this individual and the bank, I had the opportunity, of course, as a into the nightmare of American home- and of course this is the bank of which member of the Finance Committee, to ownership—this nightmare in which, Steve Mnuchin was a part owner. meet Mr. Mnuchin in my office and to instead of building wealth for Amer- I also want to read what she said question him more than once in the ican families, homeownership became a about the circumstance she was in. She question period for the Finance Com- predatory instrument for draining was hoping that because of the cir- mittee. In our meeting, I asked him, wealth from American families. cumstances with regard to her home, for example—and these are other rel- What was Steve Mnuchin doing when that she would be able to work with evant questions in terms of presenting the Banking Committee was working the bank instead of having foreclosure. accurate information, presenting infor- to save the economy he had helped to That was not to be. mation that will fully answer ques- tear down? Well, he was foreclosing on The article goes on to talk about oth- tions—I asked him how many times his more than 36,000 struggling home- ers in the region who had foreclosures financial institution chose to modify owners, conducting more than one- as well. A house in White Oak, PA, was mortgages as opposed to foreclosing, third of all the reverse mortgage fore- foreclosed in 2014; a house in North and he told me that there were about closures, running a bank with a record Versailles was foreclosed in 2013; a 100,000 mortgage modifications. Yet we

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People have to be is true of Ruth in South Philadelphia, member the exact number, but I was able to rely upon the information, the in terms of the impact of that decision. surprised at how far off he was in some- accuracy of it and the completeness of We have a lot of ways to summarize in- thing so substantial in someone’s life, it. And if he has had problems in his formation like this, and I will just whether it was a person like Nellie or nomination process, that causes us to highlight maybe one or two. other individuals. A mortgage fore- raise some real questions. For example, according to the Na- closure, as opposed to a modification, I wanted to start with OneWest tional Consumer Law Center, in March which is a better result for an indi- Bank—another entity called Financial of 2012, a Philadelphia senior citizen vidual or family—that is a substantial Freedom. I don’t know how far we will with a reverse mortgage from a wing of difference in their lives. And I would get into this in the limited time we Mr. Mnuchin’s bank—in this case, the hope that when you are in any way in- have. In 2009, Mr. Mnuchin and his name of the entity was Financial Free- volved in a foreclosure, as a banker or business partners bought OneWest dom—sought assistance because he had as a part of an entity that is fore- Bank at the height of the financial cri- been served with a preforeclosure no- closing, that you would carefully weigh sis for $1.6 billion, paying about 5 cents tice. The reverse mortgage company the consequences before you choose to on the dollar for the bank’s assets. Mr. owned by Mr. Mnuchin gave this indi- pursue foreclosure or pursue a different Mnuchin was able to buy the bank at vidual 30 days to pay almost $5,000. path, the path of modification, which, such a significant discount in part be- What was the bill for? Well, without of course, everyone would prefer in cause he was entrusted to modify as his knowing it, Financial Freedom that circumstance. many home mortgages as possible so charged him over $2,000 for forced- I asked Steve Mnuchin how many homeowners could stay in their homes. placed insurance coverage from 2010 to Americans his bank had foreclosed on He foreclosed on more than—I should 2012. Financial Freedom threatened to during the financial crisis, and he has say OneWest Bank foreclosed on more go forward with the foreclosure unless yet to provide an answer to that ques- than 40,000 Americans, so we are told. this senior citizen made immediate tion. I know others may have asked a We don’t know how many fore- monthly payments equal to almost 35 similar question, and I wonder if they closures they engaged in in Pennsyl- percent of his monthly income. With got an answer. We will see what the vania, but, as I read a couple moments legal assistance, those payments were public record shows. ago from an investigative report from reduced. Mr. Mnuchin was also asked to pro- WTAE, it is at least hundreds in one I would hope you would not need to vide a copy of a letter he said he sent region of the State. We have 67 coun- hire a lawyer to get those payments re- to the Department of Housing and ties. Depending on where you draw the duced, but sometimes when you are up Urban Development raising concerns line, Southwestern Pennsylvania is 10 against a powerful financial institu- about the impact of the company’s re- counties, 12 counties, somewhere in tion, that is the only way to proceed. verse mortgage guidance. It was almost that range, maybe as high as 15 if you Instead of immediately informing a month ago that we asked for that in- went as far north as Erie. Let’s say it this senior citizen of his lapsed cov- formation to be produced, that letter, is 15 counties. Hundreds of foreclosures erage, Financial Freedom charged ex- and we still haven’t seen it. So I won- in that region is substantial. cessive amounts for forced-placed cov- der about the statement he made with Later, after all of those thousands of erage. Financial Freedom then waited 2 regard to information from HUD. foreclosures across the country, Mr. years to begin collection, but it ex- I also asked Mr. Mnuchin whether his Mnuchin sold OneWest Bank for $3.4 pected this senior, who was living on a financial institution engaged in the billion in 2015. The sale itself yielded fixed income, to pay within 30 days. Fi- predatory practice of so-called robo- the group of individuals, including Mr. nancial Freedom also did not tell this signing, and this is a question which Mnuchin, billions of dollars—that senior citizen he could apply for a was asked by a couple of Senators. I would be Mr. Mnuchin and also inves- longer repayment plan due to his low asked him for that information, and he tors. income. said that wasn’t the case. But now we I mentioned the foreclosures before According to the National Consumer know from the documented evidence in and the individuals involved. I wanted Law Center, in 2015, Financial Freedom an answer that he later changed that to go a little deeper into the particular notified a Pennsylvania reverse mort- there was robo-signing taking place at circumstances. gage holder’s heirs that the only way the time we alleged that it did. I mentioned and highlighted Nellie’s to avoid foreclosure on the family So when you ask a question in a story. Here is what took place in that home was by repaying the loan balance hearing and you get an answer that circumstance—or what she had hoped or selling the property for at least 95 was wrong or incomplete or misleading would take place. Nellie was hoping percent of its appraised value. They or otherwise, that is one thing. You that she would be able to work some- said the appraised value for the Penn- could sometimes have a circumstance thing out with the bank, so she asked sylvania home was $170,000, even where someone didn’t intentionally OneWest to help her keep the house by though their own appraisal of the prop- want to mislead or tell a lie, or they adjusting her payment. That often hap- erty just one month earlier was $67,000. may have answered a question impre- pens when a bank initiates a fore- There is a big difference between cisely or without a lot of information. closure. It begins a process but works $170,000 and $67,000. It seems that But I think it is a little different when something out with a homeowner, and $170,000 was the appraised value at loan you ask a question in writing, where that would be called a modification. In origination, way back in 2007. Now, of the individual had the time to analyze this case, Nellie asked OneWest to help course, it is years later, and that was, a question and provide an answer in her keep her house by adjusting her of course, before the market collapsed. writing with some time to reflect, payment, but she said the bank refused So for the purposes of preforeclosure some time to consult some other and then foreclosed on her. She said: notice, Financial Freedom used an ap- sources of information before they ‘‘They should have worked with me to praisal over $100,000 more than the ac- draft their answer and then submit it meet a payment that I could make.’’ tual value of the home. They were try- to you as part of the nomination proc- She filed for bankruptcy, but even that ing to force the heirs to pay more than ess. In this case, Mr. Mnuchin had a did not save her house. She said it cost $100,000 above the home’s value to pre- different answer than the facts showed, her ‘‘a lot of depression.’’ That is what vent foreclosure of the family home. and I will go through that a little bit Nellie said about her own cir- So these are a couple of Pennsylvania later. cumstances, and I mentioned the other stories—Ruth and Nellie and then some At some level, there is a question of communities in Western Pennsylvania. others, whose names aren’t in the text accuracy, maybe even rising to the That is the reality foreclosure brings of my remarks, but give similar stories level of trust, and that is something we to bear on the life of one individual about some of the foreclosure practices

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The ques- So I will wrap up because I know we try. tion was this: have to go, but I will put more infor- At every step of the way, Mr. One of the most significant scandals during mation in the RECORD. Mnuchin’s mantra has been to pri- the financial crisis was the practice of ‘‘robo- Let me conclude with one thought vatize profits and socialize losses. signing’’ whereby bank employees rapidly before we move on. One of the concerns While our President spent much of approved foreclosure documents without I have about his nomination, also, is his campaign railing against Goldman thorough review. Many were wrongfully fore- not something you can point to in a Sachs and Wall Street’s stranglehold closed upon on account of these practices. Did OneWest Bank ‘‘robo sign’’ documents document. It is just a gut instinct or a on Washington, it should be lost on no relating to foreclosures and evictions? judgment that I have made, and it is a one that Wall Street has the majority His response was pretty shocking: judgment that can be summarized this vote in this administration. With way: I have a real concern about his OneWest Bank did not robo-sign docu- friends like Mr. Mnuchin and Gary ments, and as the only bank to successfully commitment to public service. Why do Cohn in high places, the country’s larg- complete the independent foreclosure review I say that? It seemed that, in this est and most complex financial institu- required by Federal banking regulators to whole process of disclosing financial tions can rest easy, knowing this ad- investigate allegations of robo-signing, I am information—turning over documents, ministration is firmly committed to proud of our institution’s extremely low answering questions, answering follow- their bottom lines. As Treasury Sec- error rate. up questions—Mr. Mnuchin was kind of retary, Mr. Mnuchin will be a chief ar- The reason I say that it was a shock- resistant to scrutiny or seemed to be chitect of the GOP’s ‘‘Wall Street ing answer is because he had signed his burdened by this, and that somehow he First’’ policy. name to a 2011 document that found was disclosing too much. His de- Despite his self-described humble be- that OneWest Bank did, in fact, robo- meanor, when you would ask him some ginnings at Goldman Sachs in the sign. The findings from the Office of questions, appeared to me to be a de- 1980s, Mr. Mnuchin was on the Thrift Supervision does not explicitly meanor that was not consistent with frontlines of developing the now-infa- state robo-signing—that is not a legal what public service must be about. mous collateralized debt obligations term of art—but it does set forth a fact When you are in public service, wheth- known as CDOs and credit default pattern for robo-signing, which in- er you are elected or appointed, you swaps. volves an employee signing foreclosure are, in fact, a servant. You don’t work I urge my colleagues not to be fooled documents without reviewing them. In- for a bank, you don’t work for a finan- by Mr. Mnuchin. He was part of the stead of reviewing the details of each, cial institution, and you don’t work for cadre of corporate raiders that brought robo-signers assume the paperwork is a company. You don’t even work for a our economy to its knees. correct and sign it automatically. Al- President. You work for the people. In its 2011 report on the great reces- most anyone who lived through the fi- I was taught a long time ago that the sion that wiped out nearly $13 trillion nancial crisis of 2008 knows what robo- closer you can get to this ideal—which in household wealth and cost nearly 9 signing is, and many were victims of is inscribed on a building in our State million Americans their jobs, the Sen- this practice. capitol in Harrisburg: ‘‘All public serv- ate Permanent Subcommittee on In- So that is a problem, obviously, when ice is a trust, given in faith and accept- vestigations described Goldman Sachs’ you answer a question in a manner ed in honor’’—the way you accept your role in the crisis as follows: that is totally inconsistent with the public duties is not only to disclose Goldman engaged in securitization prac- facts. what you should disclose, to answer tices that magnified risk in the market by I know I am low on time, and I want questions which you must answer, but selling high risk, poor quality mortgage to wrap up. What I will do for the to do it in a manner where you are products. record—or if we have time to come doing it with a belief that you are a It said: back later—is to get into some other public servant and with the spirit of Conflicts of interest related to proprietary issues. But one of the real concerns I public service. If you are labored and if investments led Goldman to conceal its ad- have about his nomination is not just you are chafing under that or resisting, verse financial interests from potential in- his record as a banker, as a person you should probably do something else vestors, sell investors poor quality invest- working on Wall Street and working in with your life. ments, and place its final interests before that world. It is one thing to say you I hope I am wrong about that. I hope those of its clients. . . .’’ did something in your prior life, but once he is in office—and it appears that Despite the damage they caused, Mr. once you put on the mantle of public he may be confirmed—and if he is con- Mnuchin never learned his lesson, and, service and the heavy responsibilities firmed, we see a different approach to as recently as 2012, he praised these in- of Treasury Secretary, you set aside the duties of public service and the struments, calling them ‘‘an extremely that other work you did or that other burdens of public service. I hope I am positive development in terms of being position you had, maybe, on some wrong about him, but my instincts tell able to finance different parts of the issues. But, apparently, some of his me otherwise. economy and different businesses effi- work—or at least some of his points of I yield the floor. ciently.’’ view—will continue in the Treasury The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Now, after he left Goldman Sachs, Department, because I think it is pret- ator from New Jersey. Mr. Mnuchin started a hedge fund, ty clear, based upon some reporting Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, I Dune Capital, which started investing back at the end of November, that Mr. rise today to speak in opposition to in an exotic financial instrument Mnuchin believes that one of his prime President Trump’s nominee to serve as called life settlements, which are made responsibilities is to begin to dis- Secretary of the Treasury, Steve up of life insurance policies purchased mantle, or substantially alter, what we Mnuchin. from cash-strapped seniors. The inves- know as the Dodd-Frank legislation. From his days at Goldman Sachs, on tor, Mr. Mnuchin’s hedge fund, had a We know what happened prior to the frontlines of developing the very plan to pay the premiums on the poli- that. We know what happened to the products that brought our economy to cies until the seniors died, at which economy. We know that the United its knees, to his reign as chairman of point they would cash in on the insur- States lost about $19 trillion in house- OneWest Bank, quantified by tens of ance claims. hold wealth. That is $19 trillion, with a thousands of foreclosures and qualified So let’s be clear. Under Mr. ‘‘t.’’ More than 8 million jobs—by one by years of despair, to his plan to get Mnuchin’s plan, the sooner seniors estimate, 8.7 million jobs—were lost. rich off cash-strapped seniors, to his in- died, the more money his hedge fund So I would hope that as Treasury Sec- vestments in Sears that stripped pen- would make. While the markets for

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First he about his plan to unchain Wall Street. early 2009. Wall Street had brought our blamed IndyMac for the quality of Mr. Mnuchin has made it his No. 1 pri- economy to the brink of collapse, and mortgage loans; then he blamed gov- ority to roll back Wall Street reform. 13.2 million Americans were facing un- ernment regulations, which he falsely As my friend Senator BROWN has employment. Home values were plum- claimed forced his bank to kick people often said, our colleagues seem to have meting, having fallen 12.5 percent in out of their homes. If that wasn’t contracted a case of collective amnesia just one quarter. And where was Mr. enough, Mr. Mnuchin had the audacity about the great recession. Just 8.5 Mnuchin? He was negotiating the deal to tell us that his bank did not robo- years after the worst financial collapse of a lifetime. In the darkest days of the sign documents despite clear evidence in 80 years, which put taxpayers on the financial crisis, when Rome was burn- to the contrary. line for billions in bailouts, the Presi- ing, Mr. Mnuchin and his friends were To make matters worse, Mr. Mnuchin dent, Republicans in Congress, and Mr. looking for stores to raid. had the gall to call OneWest a loan Mnuchin are champing at the bit to Boy, did they find a gem in IndyMac. modification machine. He repeatedly take down the very protections that He purchased IndyMac’s $23.5 billion of misled the committee that OneWest were put in place to prevent another assets for a mere $1.55 billion in March provided more than 100,000 loan modi- catastrophe. I ask them, Have we of 2009. With the FDIC, Federal Deposit fications when, in fact, they modified learned nothing? Insurance entity backing, its too many less than one-quarter of that amount. We know what this administration loans went south. So he had a govern- On top of misleading the committee, wants. It wants what the industry mental guarantee for $23.5 billion of as- Mr. Mnuchin has been unwilling to pro- wants. On the day the President signed sets for about $1.5 billion, and he had vide information on the number of bor- his ‘‘Wall Street First’’ Executive the government’s guarantee. All that rowers who lost their homes during the order, Goldman Sachs’ shares soared Mr. Mnuchin had to do was to agree to time that he ran the bank. We believe 4.6 percent, a $4 billion gain. At the end help homeowners struggling with their that number is at least 60,000 families of the day, Mr. Mnuchin is nominated mortgages, but Mr. Mnuchin didn’t and seniors, but those numbers could to serve in a position to ensure the fi- hold up his end of the bargain. He even be higher. nancial stability of the American econ- wanted more. Apparently, the profit At the end of the day, this is about omy, but his only experience is betting margins of foreclosure were just too much more than numbers. It is about on the financial instability of Amer- sweet to ignore. the seniors who are barely hanging on ican families. After buying IndyMac and renaming to their homes—their only source of Not only did he profit off the backs of it OneWest Bank, Mr. Mnuchin was in- wealth. It is about communities that struggling homeowners, he also stands stalled as chairman. But instead of were hit with a one-two punch of to profit off of pensions he mismanaged working to achieve sustainable loan subprime loans in the years leading up while on the board of the Sears com- modifications and workouts for strug- to the crisis, only to face banks like pany. From the time Mr. Mnuchin gling borrowers, as Mr. Mnuchin had OneWest with unrelenting foreclosure joined the board of Sears, the company committed to doing, OneWest’s busi- practices that stopped at nothing until lost billions of dollars, including more ness model centered on kicking bor- they had kicked people out of their than $8 billion since 2011 alone. Rather rowers out of their homes at the first homes. than invest in growth and its workers, sign of default. It is about people like Sylvia Oliver he decided to strip the company of its In April of 2011, the former Office of of Scotch Plains, NJ. After her em- most valuable assets and keep them for Thrift Supervision hit OneWest Bank ployer cut her hours in 2009, like so themselves and their friends. with a consent order because the bank many other hardworking Americans at While Sears seemed to lose in this was actually putting homeowners on a the time, she ran into difficulty paying transaction, there were some that cer- fast track to foreclosure, robo-signing her mortgage. Despite the fact that Ms. tainly appeared to profit. Not surpris- foreclosure documents. Oliver found a full-time job and applied ingly, Mr. Mnuchin and his hedge fund In a sworn deposition in 2009, a eight—eight—times for loan modifica- friends were those profiteers. As a OneWest vice president admitted to tions, Mr. Mnuchin’s bank denied each shareholder lawsuit contended, they robo-signing 750 foreclosure documents and every one of her applications. Ms. gobbled up the most valuable and prof- a week without ever reading or review- Oliver has been fighting to save her itable assets, and they saved golden ing them. In 2014, an independent gov- home for 7 years. She is hanging on by parachutes for themselves to escape if ernment review of OneWest’s fore- a thread. Her own words speak volumes the company crashed. This might closure activities in 2009 and 2010 alone about Mr. Mnuchin. She said: sound complicated, but it is a move identified more than 10,000 home- It’s been very painful and stressful not that would make Gordon Gecko from owners, including dozens of active-duty knowing if my kids and my family are going the movie ‘‘Wall Street’’ proud. Just servicemembers, who were owed $8.5 to have a home to live in, or if it’s going to replace Bluestar Airlines with Sears, million in damages due to the bank’s be foreclosed on. I would ask you to remem- and fiction becomes reality. In the foreclosure practices. ber my experience when you consider wheth- world of both men, greed is good. OneWest’s practices were especially er Mr. Mnuchin is qualified to lead the De- But this isn’t a movie. It is the real partment of the Treasury. As the CEO and egregious when it came to seniors with Chair of OneWest Bank, Mr. Mnuchin had world with real-life consequences for reverse mortgage loans. During Mr. the opportunity to help families like mine 200,000 people who work at Sears. Strip- Mnuchin’s tenure at the bank, with responsible loan modifications, and he ping Sears of $12 billion worth of its OneWest’s reverse mortgage sub- didn’t. I don’t think this is a track record most valuable assets contributed to the sidiary, Financial Freedom, had ap- that anybody should be proud of. devaluation of the company, which fur- proximately 17 percent of the reverse Ms. Oliver is right. Mr. Mnuchin’s ther jeopardized the pensions of more mortgage shares but was responsible record is not only undeserving of pride, than 200,000 Americans. According to for nearly 40 percent of reverse mort- it is shameful. While Mr. Mnuchin’s the most recent filing, this pension gage foreclosures. In other words, Mr. business formula proved toxic for tens fund is now underfunded by an alarm- Mnuchin cornered the market on focus- of thousands of hard-working American ing $2 billion after they stripped $12 ing and foreclosing on seniors in Amer- families and seniors, it was incredibly billion of its most valuable assets. ica. Whether it was foreclosing on a 90- lucrative for Mr. Mnuchin and These retirees, who rely on pensions to year-old woman over a 27-cent—27- OneWest’s investors. He sold OneWest live, who worked hard all of their lives cent—missed payment or threatening for $3.4 billion, a profit of $1.85 billion and played by the rules, have already

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.031 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1117 had their benefits cut by Mr. Mnuchin same combined net worth as nearly 90 I urge may colleagues to oppose his and the Sears finance board. In fact, percent of all American workers. These nomination. the pension situation has become so 160,000 of the richest families in the I yield the floor. dire that the government, through the country have as much wealth as 144 The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, million families in America. LANKFORD). The Senator from Nevada. or the PBGC, felt compelled to step in I have nothing against wealthy peo- Ms. CORTEZ MASTO. Mr. President, to protect the pension benefits for ple. I have nothing against millionaires I rise today, along with many of my these 200 people. and billionaires. Many worked hard for colleagues, to speak out against the As if his past mismanagement of pen- their money, and they played by the White House nominating Steven sions isn’t bad enough, as Treasury rules. I applaud their success. But I Mnuchin to be the next Secretary of Secretary, Mr. Mnuchin would oversee don’t think the wealthy, who are doing the U.S. Treasury. President Trump the decision whether to bail out the just fine right now, need an extra mil- has nominated the former CEO of pension. Mr. Mnuchin would have to lion dollars or more than the middle OneWest Bank—who before that for 17 decide whether to protect his personal class. I don’t think we should be bor- years was a Goldman Sachs executive— hedge fund investments in Sears, which rowing trillions more from China just to run the Federal agency tasked with he refuses to divest, or to protect the to give the top one-tenth of 1 percent crafting and implementing U.S. eco- Federal Government and those 200,000 another million dollars. This is fun- nomic policy. So much for draining the retirees. damentally backward. swamp. To be fair, when I asked Mr. Mnuchin They say we can’t afford to invest in I want to start, however, by sharing about his inherent conflict of interest infrastructure, we can’t afford to help the story of a good friend, Lola Orvik, during his confirmation hearing, he our graduates with mounting college whom I met when I was attorney gen- pledged to recuse himself from any de- debt, we can’t afford to give a whole eral of Nevada. cision by the PBGC regarding Sears. host of resources to things we think In 2013, Lola’s mortgage on her town- But we have heard that song before. are critical to compel our Nation to be house in Henderson was underwater. Mr. Mnuchin can’t avoid a conflict of the continuing global economic leader, Like thousands of other Nevadans, she interest by recusing himself any more but we can afford to give $1 million needed to refinance, but five different than President Trump can avoid a con- away to all the millionaires and bil- loan modification applications had all flict by supposedly letting his children lionaires in the country. This warped been rejected by her bank. Lola was run his businesses. The only true fire- order of priorities is a perfect meta- desperate for a solution and on the wall against a potential conflict of in- phor for Mr. Mnuchin’s school of eco- verge of losing her home. She received terest is through a full divestiture, nomics: Give the rich more and more a telephone call offering help that was which Mr. Mnuchin refuses to do. As a because they know best. too good to be true, and it was. After private citizen and executive at Sears, Unfortunately, this theory of trickle- calling my office, she thankfully dis- Mr. Mnuchin showed a total disregard down economics hasn’t worked in the covered that it was a scam. I am so for the earned pension benefits of hun- past and will not work now. The Amer- glad she called my office. Our staff re- dreds of thousands of hard-working ican people are sick and tired of get- ferred her to a new program we had Americans. I have no reason to think ting fleeced. They are tired of working created, the Home Again Homeowner he will have a change of heart as Treas- hard every day and playing by the Relief Program. It is a one-stop shop to ury Secretary. rules only to fall further behind. They help struggling homeowners. It helped Not only does Mr. Mnuchin want to are tired of losing in a rigged system. Lola finally get a loan modification, let banks write their own rules and let But a Treasury Department led by reduce her principal by $37,000, slash executives profit when they cut pen- Mr. Mnuchin will only deliver more of her interest rate from 5.7 percent to 2 sions, but he also wants to cut taxes on the same: more tax breaks for the percent, and keep the house she had the rich so he and his friends can keep wealthiest in the country, more bor- lived in for nearly 20 years. more of their ill-gotten gains. After rowing from China, more income in- The Home Again Program helped helping raise millions of dollars from equality. These are not the principles thousands of Nevada homeowners un- Wall Street and big corporations for Americans want or need. derstand all the State and Federal President Trump’s campaign, they are In conclusion, you can tell a lot housing resources available to them. It now expecting a big return on their in- about a person based on how they han- has helped folks like Lola restructure vestment—and, boy, do they win big dle a crisis. When Wall Street crashed their loans to ensure more affordable league under the Mnuchin-Trump tax and the country plunged into recession, monthly payments. That simple hot- plan. This ill-conceived proposal would where was Mr. Mnuchin? Was he warn- line number has gone a long way. give large corporations, which are al- ing regulators that they were asleep at Because we were there to help her, ready earning record profits, an addi- the wheel and hard-working Americans Lola got her life back. However, not ev- tional $2.5 trillion. That is $2.5 trillion were being exploited? Was he working eryone was as fortunate as Lola. In taken away from transportation, from to reform the broken system? No. He fact, some families are still trying to schools, from the middle class, and was looking for stores to raid with one overcome the continuing destructive given directly to multinational cor- goal in mind: profits. impact of the foreclosure crisis in Ne- porations. It would eliminate the es- Some would like to either ignore or vada and across this country. tate tax and gift taxes, giving a nearly whitewash this past, but if we don’t In the depths of the great recession, $200 billion windfall to the wealthiest learn from history, we are doomed to Lola’s predicament was not unique. Ne- 5,000 family dynasties in the country— repeat it. The American people cannot vada was ground zero for the housing $200 billion to the wealthiest 5,000 fam- afford a repeat of that past. We cannot crisis. Property values plummeted. ily dynasties in the country—and 99.99 afford a return to the Wild West of ‘‘For sale’’ signs lined the streets. percent of all Americans will not see a Wall Street—when the middle class was Foreclosure notices hung on doors penny from this giveaway. But we held hostage to the earnings reports of throughout the State. Thousands of know who would benefit: Mr. Mnuchin the biggest banks, when the cure for families lived in constant fear of losing and President Trump. income inequality was simply more tax their homes. It doesn’t stop there. On top of all of cuts for the wealthy. In 2008, Nevada had the highest fore- this, the Mnuchin-Trump proposal We need a Treasury Secretary who closure rate in the Nation, with more would also give the top one-tenth of 1 will stand up to Wall Street, not take than 77,000 homes getting a notice at percent—the wealthiest of the wealthy, orders from them. We need a Treasury the door saying they were at risk for the corporate CEOs and hedge fund Secretary who understands that the eviction. We led the Nation in the managers who make around $4 million strength of our country has come and terms of foreclosure rate for 62 straight per year or more—$1 million back each will always come from the middle months during the recession. and every year. This group of elite class, not from the CEOs and the hedge Things got so bad that by 2010, nearly earners already take home a whopping funds. Unfortunately, Mnuchin is not 70 percent of Nevada homeowners were 184 times the average pay and has the that person. underwater on their homes, meaning

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.033 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 that they owed more on their mort- However, according to new data, dur- Here is what she told us at the hear- gages than the current value of their ing the foreclosure crisis and its imme- ing: property. diate aftermath, OneWest made $3 bil- In 2008, when the economy started to get As Nevada’s attorney general, I lion in profit while evicting 3,654 Ne- worse, I was laid off. The following year, in fought the big banks, Wall Street insti- vada families from their homes. This 2009, my husband Jack was laid off too. tutions, and default servicing compa- includes 181 foreclosures on seniors Though Jack was able to find another job nies to secure more than $1.9 billion to pretty fast, he had to take a big pay cut— who had taken out reverse mortgages. from about $25 an hour to $8.50 an hour. Be- help hard-working families get back on When he eventually left the bank, Mr. tween the cut in Jack’s pay and the loss in their feet. That money helped to fund Mnuchin received a $10.9 million pay- income I experienced when going on unem- the Home Again Program. out. This is on top of the annual com- ployment insurance benefits after I got laid More than just getting that money pensation of $4.5 million he has re- off, we were pinched and we were drowning back, this was about changing the con- ceived since 2015, when OneWest was financially. duct and predatory practices of the big bought by other investors. Let me re- However, we were determined to keep our banks when working with homeowners. dream home, so Jack and I were tenacious peat that. Some 3,654 Nevada families about doing whatever we could to get help. For instance, we made dual tracking lost their homes because Mr. We sought help from the Hope Now Alliance, an illegal practice so that banks could Mnuchin’s OneWest put profits over which is an alliance of HUD-approved coun- no longer foreclosure on a home while people. That is a snapshot and a sta- selors who provide free foreclosure help, and simultaneously considering their re- tistic which does not do justice to how from the Washoe County Senior Law Project. quest for a loan modification and then much pain that caused for those fami- We worked side-by-side with both organiza- charging them fees every step of the lies. tions to do everything required of us by our way. We demanded that a homeowner mortgage servicer IndyMac, which later be- I want to spend some time on these came OneWest. When we first asked for help, have a single point of contact within accusations of robo-signing, both be- OneWest gave us a short forbearance and al- the financial institution so the home- cause Mr. Mnuchin clearly lied and lowed us to make a smaller payment for sev- owner would no longer get shuffled also because this was an issue I took on eral months with the goal of a reduction in around from person to person and told when I was attorney general during our monthly mortgage payments through to resubmit their loan modification ap- and after the crash. the Home Affordable Modification Program plication over and over again. We de- First, let’s be clear what this is. (or HAMP). By applying for the HAMP program, we manded that the banks demonstrate Robo-signing is a procedure used by thought we were back on the road to keeping that they had personal knowledge of mortgage companies to sign fore- our home. We complied 100 percent with the foreclosure documents they filed to closure documents without reviewing OneWest requirements for HAMP—we were prevent robo-signing and unlawful fore- them. This is a reckless practice used incredibly nervous about being able to keep closures of a home. by banks to cut corners and forge docu- our house, so we were extremely careful to Unfortunately, not every bank was ments, to rush things along, and it make sure we did everything we could to willing to do everything possible to caused thousands of families to be keep the process going forward. Our applica- help the millions of Nevadans and tion for HAMP was processed and we were wrongfully evicted from their homes. approved for our modification. I sent in the Americans who were suffering. Mr. Like OneWest, the banks were in- signed paperwork and the first payment Mnuchin’s OneWest Bank—formally volved in a massive robo-signing under the modified payment amount along known as IndyMac—was one such scheme in my home State of Nevada, with it. bank. Instead of trying to help home- and I went after them aggressively as But then the process started to fall apart. owners, OneWest enforced predatory the State’s attorney general. Nevada After a whole 30 days, OneWest returned our and unforgiving practices that only led the Nation in foreclosures every personal check and told us that only cer- served to line the pockets of Mr. tified checks would be accepted, so they were month for more than 4 years. now voiding the modification offer. We had Mnuchin and his co-owners. Mr. Mnuchin’s company did not care followed the instructions to the letter on Steven Mnuchin purchased IndyMac that middle-class families were losing OneWest paperwork, crossing our ‘‘T’’s and from the Federal Government after it their homes during the crisis. In fact, dotting our ‘‘I’’s. But in the end, this didn’t collapsed and took control of the thou- during his confirmation hearing before matter—and OneWest’s rejection of our sands of mortgages the bank managed. the Senate, he admitted: HAMP application put us on the road to fore- Mnuchin rebranded the bank as I never wanted to be in the mortgage serv- closure. We applied two more times for loan modi- OneWest and went to work using ques- icing business. I didn’t want to be in the re- fications over the next six months because verse mortgage business, I wanted to build a tionable foreclosure practices, like we were given assurances by people at regional bank. dual tracking, so he could make more OneWest that they would approve our appli- money. That is not right. In other words, Mr. Mnuchin had to cation. We again complied with every re- Instead of working to help these convince his investors that they would quest OneWest made of us, taking care to homeowners stay in their homes, make money—a point that Mr. send in extra documents whenever OneWest OneWest Bank, under Mnuchin’s lead- Mnuchin admitted at the hearing, say- requested them. ership, became a foreclosure machine. ing: ‘‘Yes, my investors made a lot of But as far as I can tell, OneWest never at- tempted to process the loan modification. The bank had one of the highest denial money on OneWest.’’ The foreclosure went through and we lost rates for applications to the Home Af- Not only did his investors make a lot our home on September 10, 2010. The fore- fordable Modification Program. A of money, Mr. Mnuchin did so as well. closure left us without a home; and finding a judge in Wisconsin cited OneWest’s Since leaving the bank, he has pock- new rental was extremely difficult because ‘‘harsh, repugnant, shocking, and re- eted nearly $20 million. Mr. Mnuchin of our credit. Juggling the demands of rais- pulsive’’ practices when deciding a suit was making millions, while thousands ing our twins was so hard—the foreclosure against them. Recent documents show of Nevadans were losing their homes even meant that our kids had to miss school. and their dignity, Nevadans like Eventually we did find a new place, but we that the company used robo-signing to had to pay an outrageous rent, even though deny modification claims, proving that Heather McCreary of Sparks, who came it was not a good home for us at all. it did not fairly consider loan modifica- to Capitol Hill last month to share her It’s hard to explain the shame, embarrass- tion applications for tens of thousands heart-wrenching story of how she ap- ment, and grief that Jack and I felt. I’ve of homeowners. plied to OneWest for a loan modifica- cried a river of tears over this. I really didn’t When confronted with these facts at tion in 2010 after she and her husband think we were asking too much: We wanted his Senate confirmation hearing, Mr. lost their jobs as a result of the finan- to hang on to our home for the sake of our Mnuchin lied. He denied that OneWest cial crisis. Despite three applications kids, and we did everything we could to stay in our home. And while I will probably never used robo-signing, offered empty ex- and following all instructions, the know exactly what OneWest did, the out- cuses, and shifted blame for his com- bank kept Heather’s family dangling come of my story proves that Steve pany’s heinous practices. And during and then suddenly foreclosed on their Mnuchin’s company had no interest in help- his confirmation hearing, Mr. Mnuchin home. I want to read some of Heather’s ing us. They wanted to foreclose because repeatedly refused to say how many testimony. It is moving and heart- they were focused on their profits. homes OneWest foreclosed on in Ne- breaking and deserves to be heard by Heather’s story is just one of thou- vada. every Member of this body. sands that highlight just how wrong

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:56 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.034 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1119 Mr. Mnuchin is to be our next Sec- IndyMac. It had been taken over by the Fed- Back to the text: retary of the U.S. Treasury. The Treas- eral Deposit Insurance Corporation after its They arrived home from work during Tues- ury Department has the vital mission sketchy mortgage loans went seriously bad. day night’s blizzard to find that the locks Mnuchin and his partners bought IndyMac had been changed. After spending the night of promoting the conditions that en- on the condition that the FDIC agree to pay able economic growth, stability, job at her mother’s, Leslie Parks went Wednes- future losses above a certain threshold. They day to Hennepin County Housing Court, opportunities, and the ability to buy a renamed the bank OneWest Bank, and after where a referee ordered that she be allowed running it for 6 years, they sold it last year car or own a home. Their actions di- back into her mother’s former duplex at 3749 for a profit, estimated at close to $1.5 billion. rectly affect the lives of every Amer- Park Avenue while negotiations continued. ican. Kevin Stein of the California Reinvest- ment Coalition, a housing advocacy group, Locksmiths on Wednesday reconfigured the Our next Treasury Secretary should says that profit was made on the backs of locks that had been changed Tuesday by a have a proven record of fighting to ex- suffering Californian homeowners. contractor for OneWest Bank. pand economic opportunities for every- This is not in the text here, but These are the kind of tactics that one. That is what Americans deserve. homeowners who were suffering from a were being used, the kind of hardball Yet, from where I stand, Mr. Mnuchin massive mortgage collapse that was tactics that were being used by Mr. falls far short of that test. created in many ways or stimulated by Mnuchin’s company that really under- President Trump’s choice of Mr. the greed and avarice of bad actors. I mined a lot of hard-working Americans Mnuchin to lead the U.S. Treasury is a witnessed this myself in Newark, NJ, from a variety of backgrounds in slap in the face for Nevada families watching people feed upon a subprime many, many different States. like Heather’s. Her story makes it mortgage environment where they His record is clear. Mr. Mnuchin not crystal clear: This is not someone who were pushing bad loans on only advocated in support of this com- will be looking out for working people unsuspecting borrowers. pany and its tactics, but even now he when he implements our Nation’s eco- Back to the text: talks about trying to roll back the nomic policy. In essence what they did is they bought a kind of protections that have been put In many ways, President Trump’s un- foreclosure machine. in place to try to protect average fortunate choice of someone like Mr. According to the coalition, OneWest fore- Americans. Many of them are in the Mnuchin should not surprise us be- closed on more than 36,000 homeowners Dodd-Frank legislation that helped to cause in 2006 the President said he under Mnuchin. During that time, the FDIC protect against the creation of an envi- ‘‘sort of hoped’’ the real estate market made payments to OneWest totaling more ronment in which such predatory prac- than $1 billion. Those payments went to the would tank, and in 2007 he said he was billionaire investors of OneWest Bank, says tices can take place. ‘‘excited’’ for the housing market Stein, to cover the cost of foreclosing on This position that Mr. Mnuchin has crash. The motive was the same: prof- working-class everyday American folks, been nominated for, which is the Sec- its. many of whom lived in California. retary of Treasury, has a critical role We cannot afford to return to the So this was what we saw at the within our economy. But one of those misguided policies that brought us to height of the financial crisis. Mr. roles has to be the idea that average the worst financial crisis since the Mnuchin, already very wealthy, al- Americans will be protected from the Great Depression. Families cannot af- ready very successful, did not see kind of financial victimization that ford to lose their homes again. But Americans struggling, did not join ef- was going on during the recession—ac- that is exactly what we can expect if forts to try to empower, support, or tually, which lead into the recession. Stephen Mnuchin is confirmed as deal with this crisis. What he saw was We see that we can prevent Wall President Trump’s Treasury Secretary. an opportunity to take over a financial Street from burdening Main Street When I ran for the Senate, I promised institution and continue, if not accel- with the costs while they reap the re- Nevadans that I would fight for them, erate, the foreclosures that were going wards. This is the broken system that that I would stand up for them and be on. we saw in the past that needs fixing their voice here in Washington. Today, It has become painfully clear that in and needs healing. We don’t need one of I am that voice, and that is why I rise what Mr. Mnuchin oversaw in the oper- the architects of the system that with my colleagues in opposition to the ations of this bank that, as its business caused so much pain to be in one of the ‘‘Foreclosure King,’’ Mr. Mnuchin. model, he set out to explicitly mislead most important positions in our land. Mr. President, I yield the floor. and manipulate homeowners into fore- The head of this vital agency must be I suggest the absence of a quorum. closure. someone who understands their respon- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The This one article that I read has been sibility to look out for the struggling clerk will call the roll. repeated by organizations and by news American trying to make it by playing The senior assistant legislative clerk outlets all over the spectrum, talking by the rules and someone who is quali- proceeded to call the roll. about how Mr. Mnuchin, in this envi- fied and willing to direct the Depart- Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, I ask ronment, worked very hard to accel- ment to fiercely protect the economic unanimous consent that the order for erate foreclosures and take advantage security of our Nation, the economic the quorum call be rescinded. of this and make a profit. From elderly well-being of the American people, and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without widows, the stories continue, to fami- the integrity of our financial system. objection, it is so ordered. lies, to small business owners, to Ac- I don’t believe Mr. Mnuchin is that Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, I rise tive-Duty servicemembers, there were person. He has made it clear in his dec- today to join a chorus of my colleagues many, many victims of Mr. Mnuchin’s ades-long career that he is willing for a in speaking out against the nomination bank’s predatory tactics, taking advan- profit to work hard to exploit hard- of Steven Mnuchin to serve as Sec- tage of folks in a crisis, as opposed to working families and shortchange retary of the Department of the Treas- trying to figure out a way to support homeowners for that personal gain. ury. folks through it. This is unacceptable. Mr. Mnuchin has What I believe is, if you look at Mr. I would like to read one more from built a career and has reaped literally Mnuchin’s record, he has spent a lot of the Minneapolis StarTribune, an arti- millions of dollars of success by push- time benefiting from—in fact, even ex- cle that documented one instance of ing people, by exploiting people, and by ploiting—families who are struggling the disturbingly prevalent practices of hurting people. homeowners in my State. Mr. Mnuchin’s company. The American people cannot afford I would like to read into the RECORD The headline reads: ‘‘Negotiating on to suffer through another financial cri- a report by NPR from November of last foreclosure, then locked out in a bliz- sis. We can’t afford to have a master year which makes his pattern stun- zard.’’ Wall Street manipulator put in the po- ningly clear. A Minneapolis woman who was negotiating sition that we should be relying on to with a lender to find a way to stay in her During the depths of the financial crisis, protect us from that kind of financial foreclosed house— Mnuchin was looking to make profits from manipulation. the ruins of the housing bust. In 2009, he put Stepping back from the text, this is This is a difficult economy where together a group of billionaire investors and someone who is working hard to do the people in our country are still strug- bought a failed California-based bank called right thing in negotiations. gling under challenging financial

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.036 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 times. I believe that we can make a na- Secretary. Mr. Mnuchin turned the will quote Mr. Mnuchin directly with tion where people can do good and do bank he bought into a cash cow, and respect to what he said. well at the same time, where we should they set a land speed record for fore- Mr. Mnuchin said: ‘‘Any reductions not elevate or celebrate people who closures. we have in upper income taxes would really fed off of the misery and the I have supported nominees for this be offset by less deductions, so there challenges of others, but, instead, that position from both parties. I voted for would be no absolute tax cut for the we can have a nation where we put peo- Paul O’Neill. I voted for John Snow, upper class.’’ ple, regardless of their political back- and Hank Paulson, who served under I will repeat the last part of the ground, in positions like the Depart- President George W. Bush. I don’t ex- Mnuchin rule: ‘‘no absolute tax cut for ment of Treasury to celebrate the best pect to see eye to eye on each issue the upper class.’’ of who we are, the best of our values— with every Treasury Secretary. I do ex- When I first called this the Mnuchin people who are public servants, people pect to have confidence that the Treas- rule during the Finance Committee’s who have shown a commitment to not ury Secretary is going to work on be- hearing on his nomination, Mr. only serve but even sacrifice for one half of all Americans—all Americans— Mnuchin said he took it as a great another. and not just the well healed, not just compliment, comparing it to the What we saw amidst this crisis— the fortunate, not just the powerful. Volcker rule and the Buffett rule. Well, amidst a crisis that, in many ways, was After considering Mr. Mnuchin’s you would think a fellow who proudly aggravated and caused by greed and qualifications and background, I just embraced having a rule named after avarice in the mortgage industry and don’t believe he would be that kind of himself would actually stick to it. The Mnuchin rule didn’t last for very the banking industry, among rating Treasury Secretary. In Mr. Mnuchin’s long before it was abandoned. The very agencies—was that many people response to questions from members of first act of the 115th Congress in a uni- showed who they were in a time of the Finance Committee, he denied that fied Republican government, repealing American struggle and American cri- his bank, OneWest, engaged in a prac- the Affordable Care Act, would shatter sis. We saw with clarity where people’s tice known as robo-signing. The public the Mnuchin rule. Then it is set to priorities were. Was it exploiting peo- record says that is just dead wrong. In fact, a OneWest vice president who take another hit later this year. That ple? Was it manipulating systems for is with the majority working on plans their own avarice and their own ben- worked under Mr. Mnuchin, Erica Johnson-Seck, admitted under oath to fast-track a second, even bigger tax efit, or was it for being there for our break for those who are the most fortu- that she ran an office that churned out country, trying to make thing things nate. The Trump plan, in fact, would roughly 6,000 sets of foreclosure docu- better, trying to give people bridges hit millions of middle-income families that could carry them from financial ments a week. She said she personally signed more with tax increases by wiping out key struggle and strain to stability, or peo- personal exemptions and eliminating ple that were trying to crumble those than 750 disclosure documents a week without even reading them, and there head of household filing status. bridges and have people free fall in fi- So I want to be really clear what this was no notary present during the proc- nancial distress. means to people in Oklahoma and Or- ess. That is a violation of the law. This is, unfortunately, what we see egon and all across the country, work- When asked how much time she spent here today. We have President Trump ing families: Working families would executing each foreclosure document, trying to elevate someone who has not get hurt by the Trump plan. They shown a record of someone who wanted Ms. Johnson-Seck replied: would lose key personal exemptions. to help but instead has shown a record I changed my signature considerably. It’s They would eliminate the head of just an E now. So not more than 30 seconds. of someone who wants to hurt. That to household filing status while those who me is unacceptable, especially at this Now, on the eve of the Finance Com- were more fortunate would be in a posi- time where so many American families mittee mark-up for Mr. Mnuchin, the tion to get tax breaks, additional tax are still struggling to get back on their Columbus Dispatch in Ohio reported breaks beyond what they already have feet to find financial security and find documented examples of robo-signing in the Tax Code. the pathway to their American dream. in Ohio. Now, on the eve of Mr. The fact is, the Tax Code today is a It is for this reason and more that I Mnuchin’s confirmation vote in the tale of two systems. For the firefighter cannot support this nomination. Senate, another such story has broken. in Coos Bay, OR, or the retail worker I suggest the absence of a quorum. This time it is in the State of Wash- in Roseburg, your taxes come straight The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ington, more evidence of robo-signing out of each and every paycheck. That clerk will call the roll. that directly contradicts what Mr. is the way it works in Oklahoma, the The senior assistant legislative clerk Mnuchin told the Finance Committee way it works all across the country. proceeded to call the roll. and the public. The Tax Code for working people is Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I ask Mr. Mnuchin also withheld fore- compulsory. Once or twice a month, unanimous consent that the order for closure data requested by two Demo- your taxes come directly out of your the quorum call be rescinded. cratic members of the Finance Com- paycheck—no special dodges, no spe- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without mittee, Senators BROWN and CASEY. He cial loopholes. Nobody is able to hide objection, it is so ordered. did, apparently, give similar informa- their pay in a Cayman Islands account Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, there are tion to Senator HELLER, one of the if they are a firefighter or a retail communities across this country that committee’s Republican members. worker. are still waiting for the recovery from That is on top of $100 million worth of But there is a very different Tax the great recession to show up. In property and more than a dozen posi- Code in America for the well-connected many of those towns and cities, the tions with various business entities and the powerful. They have a whole storefronts are boarded up, the fac- missing from his disclosures to the Fi- array of lawyers and accountants who tories are shuttered, and, in what could nance Committee. specialize in helping them shrink their be the most lasting scar of the crisis, My own view is, if not for the com- tax bills. And with the right advice, homes—many homes—have been fore- mittee’s minority investigations team, the fact is, those people can, to a great closed. A lot of people in those commu- I don’t believe any of that information, extent, decide what they are going to nities cast their votes in November none of it—$100 million, the other dis- pay, when they are going to pay it, and based on a Trump message that real closures—would have ever come to sometimes be in a position to not pay change was coming. light. much, if anything at all. Heads are going to be spinning to- I am going to turn from missing dis- The fact is, the tax system today night with the news from the Senate. closures and misleading testimony to a punishes working Americans because it In just a few minutes, this body will broken promise. The day after news of treats them very differently than it vote to confirm as Treasury Secretary Mr. Mnuchin’s nomination was leaked, treats the most fortunate. And the ad- Steven Mnuchin, known by many as he appeared on television and, in ef- ministration and the majority in Con- the ‘‘foreclosure king.’’ That is whom fect, debuted a new tax policy. I have gress don’t seem to be doing much in the President chose as his Treasury come to call it the Mnuchin rule, and I terms of fixing this disparity.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:56 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.037 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1121 The Mnuchin rule just hasn’t held up. NAYS—47 but also cast their vote for our vet- It is beyond being on the ropes. It is Baldwin Gillibrand Nelson erans. This is a time for us to send a not going anywhere at all. In fact, the Bennet Harris Peters message to them: We don’t want to pri- early proposals only make this extraor- Blumenthal Hassan Reed vatize the VA. We don’t want to reor- Booker Heinrich Sanders dinary unfairness, the unfairness at the Brown Heitkamp Schatz ganize the VA. We want to make the heart of America’s Tax Code, even Cantwell Hirono Schumer VA work, to give our veterans access worse. Cardin Kaine Shaheen to every bit of care they can possibly Carper King Stabenow So what we have is another Trump Casey Klobuchar get, and follow in the line of the great Tester Coons Leahy leaders who have been in the Veterans’ nominee who, in my view, doesn’t meet Udall Cortez Masto Markey the test of standing up for working Van Hollen Administration before. Donnelly McCaskill I am very pleased to serve with JON families in those communities all Duckworth Menendez Warner across the country who are waiting for Durbin Merkley Warren TESTER of Montana as my ranking economic recovery to show up in their Feinstein Murphy Whitehouse member. We have worked together as a Wyden neighborhood. They are the ones who Franken Murray team—Democrats and Republicans—to have seen the factory close and seen The nomination was confirmed. make this happen. the foreclosures and seen their neigh- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I I yield the remainder of my time to bors laid off. And they would like to move to reconsider the vote on the JON TESTER of Montana on the nomina- see people in these positions advocate nomination, and I move to table the tion of David Shulkin to be Secretary for them, advocate for them because motion to reconsider. of the VA. they need somebody who is going to The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- stand up for them, and they were told DAINES). The question is on agreeing to ator from Montana. in the campaign that is what they were the motion to table. Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise, as going to get. The motion was agreed to. did the Senator from Georgia, in sup- The fact is, Mr. Mnuchin is yet an- f port of the nomination of Dr. David Shulkin to be Secretary of the VA. other Trump nominee who, instead of EXECUTIVE CALENDAR standing up for those working families, First, I wish to take this opportunity has a different set of priorities and, in The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under to thank Senator ISAKSON for his lead- addition to that, has the ethics alarm the previous order, the Senate will pro- ership of the Veterans’ Affairs Com- bells sounding. ceed to the following nomination, mittee and throughout this confirma- which the clerk will report. He appears to be withholding infor- tion process—and throughout the many The legislative clerk read the nomi- mation requested by Members of this processes—as chair of the committee. nation of David J. Shulkin, of Pennsyl- Look, I think it is critically impor- body. My view is, he misled the Fi- vania, to be Secretary of Veterans Af- tant that we have a Secretary of the nance Committee and the public about fairs. VA to serve our veterans. I think Dr. his bank’s foreclosure tactics. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under Shulkin is the perfect person for that Mnuchin rule—the first promise he the previous order, there will be 10 position. The solutions to the VA’s made, the very first promise he made minutes of debate, equally divided in problems should be based on common on policy, which he was proud to have the usual form. sense rather than partisanship or an described as a rule named after him, al- The Senator from Georgia. extreme agenda. I think Dr. Shulkin ready has been broken. Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I want recognizes that. He is committed to So I am not going to be supporting to make a statement that has not been our Nation’s veterans above all. Mr. Mnuchin to lead the Treasury De- heard much around these Halls or these Through the conversations I have had partment. I urge my colleagues as well Chambers in a couple of years. But on with him over the last year and a half, to reject this appointment. February 7—this month—the Veterans’ I think he understands the challenges I yield the floor. Affairs Committee reported by a vote ahead of us in the VA. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under of 17 to 0 the name of David Shulkin to The Choice Program, for example, the previous order, all postcloture time be the next Secretary of Veterans’ Ad- which has been a wreck by anybody’s has expired. ministration. That is a unanimous standards, is looming with dramatic The question is, Will the Senate ad- vote. Nine Republicans and eight funding shortfalls and is a program we vise and consent to the Mnuchin nomi- Democrats—everybody voted for this need to work on here in Congress—and nation? man to be Secretary of the VA. I am we will on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Mr. HATCH. I ask for the yeas and going to ask each Member in the Committee—to fix, and I think Dr. nays. Chamber today: Let’s do it as an entire Shulkin is on top of it. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a body and find one person, one thing we I have many letters from veterans sufficient second? agree upon. across Montana about how the Choice There appears to be a sufficient sec- They are not Republican veterans or Program has not worked. It is not that ond. Democrat veterans; they are American it isn’t a good idea. When we passed it, The clerk will call the roll. veterans who went to the battlefield we all agreed that it was a good idea. The legislative clerk called the roll. and fought for us. It is time we fought But it needs to be changed to fix the The result was announced—yeas 53, for them. needs of our veterans and make it more nays 47, as follows: Dr. Shulkin is the right man at the workable. right time for the Veterans’ Adminis- One other thing is a big problem, and [Rollcall Vote No. 63 Ex.] tration. On March 15, 2015, we hired that is the workforce problem we have YEAS—53 him to come in and take over and be within the VA. The hiring freeze has Alexander Flake Paul Under Secretary of Veterans Health. made this problem even worse. We all Barrasso Gardner Perdue The President looked around to find talk about the backlog, and the back- Blunt Graham Portman Boozman Grassley Risch the best man to run the VA and found log is real. But we need to make sure Burr Hatch Roberts him in David Shulkin. the VA has the people they need to Capito Heller Rounds David Shulkin is committed to the serve the veterans in this country, Cassidy Hoeven Rubio following: fixing the problems at the whether reducing that backlog or Cochran Inhofe Sasse Collins Isakson Scott Veterans’ Administration, making sure whether it is making sure they get the Corker Johnson Shelby the Choice Program works, making care they need. Cornyn Kennedy Strange Cotton Lankford sure every veteran gets the care they Finally, and Johnny talked about Crapo Lee Sullivan deserve, the care we all want them to this: privatization. He has reassured Cruz Manchin Thune get, and seeing to it they get it from me he will oppose efforts to privatize Tillis Daines McCain us. the VA. Typically, this isn’t a problem, Enzi McConnell Toomey Ernst Moran Wicker I am going to ask each Member to but the administration has talked Fischer Murkowski Young cast their vote today for David Shulkin about it extensively. I think it would

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.038 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 be a path that is reckless for our vet- testimony before the Veterans Affairs Before joining the VA, Dr. Shulkin erans, and I think the veterans service Committee and through his public served as president and CEO of Beth organizations would tell us that. statements that he believes in the VA Israel Medical Center in New York City Again, I express my support for the and in the importance of its mission. It and president at Morristown Medical nomination of Dr. Shulkin to be VA is evident that he understands the Center, Goryeb Children’s Hospital, Secretary. I believe he will stand up for value of looking to the community for and Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute, our veterans. I believe he will put them health care answers when that makes and the Atlantic Health System Ac- above politics. sense and that he also understands that countable Care Organization. Dr. Moving forward, I look forward to the Nation should never ignore its sol- Shulkin also previously served as the working with him and other Members emn responsibility to care for veterans chief medical officer of the University in this body to make sure we serve our through all possible avenues. I am also of Pennsylvania Health System, the veterans the best we possibly can. Our reassured by his pledge not to dis- Hospital of the University of Pennsyl- veterans deserve no less. mantle the VA or turn its delivery of vania, Temple University Hospital, and Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, as the care into a voucher system. It is evi- the Medical College of Pennsylvania Senate has spent the last few weeks dent that he intends to speak his mind Hospital. He had been chairman of considering controversial nominee about what makes the most sense for medicine and vice dean at Drexel Uni- after controversial nominee, it is a re- leading a missive health care system versity School of Medicine. And Dr. freshing break to consider Dr. David focused on providing quality care to Shulkin founded and was the chairman Shulkin to lead the Department of Vet- each individual veteran. and CEO of DoctorQuality, a consumer- erans Affairs. Dr. Shulkin is a man de- I will support Dr. Shulkin’s nomina- oriented source of information for fined by his professionalism, com- tion, and I look forward to working quality and safety in health care. petence, and dedication to the mission with him. Veterans groups are cautiously opti- of the agency he is tapped to lead. Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I am mistic that Dr. Shulkin will continue proud to support Dr. David Shulkin’s The son of an Army psychologist and to improve the timeliness and quality nomination for Secretary of Veterans an experienced hospital system admin- of medical care our veterans receive. Affairs. The Department of Veterans istrator, Dr. Shulkin was selected by They are also hopeful that he will Affairs, VA, faces massive challenges President Obama to restore trust and begin much-needed reforms in the ad- in delivering care to our veterans, but confidence at the Veterans Health Ad- ministration of veterans’ benefits, in- I believe that Dr. Shulkin is well ministration after years of struggles cluding the reform of the appellate re- equipped for the task at hand. punctuated by the horrible scandal of view process. wait times in Phoenix. Under his lead- Dr. Shulkin has committed to fully implementing the Veterans Choice The Department of Veterans Affairs ership, the VA has made great provides important services, care, and progress. Amid a sea of questionable Program as Secretary and will work to expand this program to provide a net- peace of mind for our Nation’s 21 mil- Cabinet nominations, Dr. Shulkin is lion veterans. The VA has more to do one about which I have no question. work that meets the needs of veterans, their families, and providers in the to make sure that the care that it pro- Of course, Dr. Shulkin will face im- vides is worthy of those who served our mense challenges. The VA needs sig- community—every veteran deserves access to care, whether that be at the Nation. I believe that Dr. Shulkin’s ex- nificant overhaul, not just in its prac- perience and training has prepared him tices and policies, but in its facilities VA or in the community. Through the Veterans Choice Pro- well to continue that effort, and I sup- and technology. In eliminating the gram, we have seen more than 7 mil- port his nomination. backlog for access to health care and in lion appointments made for veterans in Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I yield the midst of tackling the backlog in their communities, a network ex- back the remainder of our time. claims, facilities have been short- panded by 350,000 providers and over 1.5 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The changed with respect to needed im- million veterans that have benefitted Democratic time has been yielded provements and upgrades, while experi- from using the Choice Card. I will seek back. encing increased usage. New tech- to build and expand upon this progress The Senator from Georgia. nologies provide new opportunities for and look to Dr. Shulkin’s support for Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I thank providing care, but they also require legislation that would bring care in the the Senator from Montana and urge new investments. community under an integrated and Areas that are finally receiving the every Member of the Senate—Repub- coordinated system that utilizes a Vet- attention required include mental lican, Independent, Democrat—to cast erans Choice Card. This will ensure ac- their vote for our veterans, cast their health, posttraumatic stress, and other cess to timely, flexible, and quality lingering invisible wounds of war. It vote for our country, and cast their care that our veterans have earned and vote for David Shulkin to be the new has been one of my priorities to ensure deserve. that the best science and practices Secretary of the Veterans’ Administra- I believe that Dr. Shulkin is the per- tion. with respect to mental health and son that can repair the culture of the posttraumatic stress can be spread to I yield back the remainder of our VA to focus on the veteran and restore time. the communities where veterans live honesty and accountability to the De- and work, like the rural communities The PRESIDING OFFICER. All time partment. I thank him for accepting is yielded back. of Vermont. Only then will we see this challenge to serve our Nation and The question is, Will the Senate ad- progress in improving the lives of vet- look forward to working with him in vise and consent to the Shulkin nomi- erans in those areas. the days ahead. Dr. Shulkin must also rebuild the Thank you. nation? confidence of a VA workforce that has Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I Mr. BARRASSO. I ask for the yeas been unfairly targeted and vilified by support the nomination of David and nays. some for the actions of a few. The Fed- Shulkin to be Secretary of the Depart- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a eral employees who work at the VA are ment of Veterans Affairs. sufficient second? among the most dedicated anywhere. President Obama nominated Dr. There appears to be a sufficient sec- Their devotion to improving care for Shulkin, a medical doctor, to be Under ond. veterans is inspiring, but their jobs Secretary for Health for the Depart- The clerk will call the roll. have been made more difficult by both ment of Veterans Affairs and Chief Ex- The bill clerk called the roll. the disappointing actions of some indi- ecutive of the Veterans Health Admin- The result was announced—yeas 100, viduals and the frustrating policies and istration. The Senate confirmed Dr. nays 0, as follows: organizational structures that some- Shulkin in June 2015 by a voice vote. [Rollcall Vote No. 64 Ex.] times get in the way of them serving Since then, he has led the VA’s health YEAS—100 veterans. care system, with more than 1,700 care Alexander Bennet Booker I believe that Dr. Shulkin is up to sites and 9 million veterans using the Baldwin Blumenthal Boozman this challenge. It is evident from his system each year. Barrasso Blunt Brown

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:23 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.043 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1123 Burr Hassan Peters Mitch McConnell, John Cornyn, Mike The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Cantwell Hatch Portman Rounds, Tim Scott, Johnny Isakson, question is on agreeing to the motion. Capito Heinrich Reed James M. Inhofe, Roger F. Wicker, Cardin Heitkamp The motion was agreed to. Risch John Thune, Michael B. Enzi, Lindsey Carper Heller The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Roberts Graham, David Perdue, Orrin G. Hatch, Casey Hirono Rounds clerk will report the nomination. Cassidy Hoeven Mike Crapo, James E. Risch, James Rubio The legislative clerk read the nomi- Cochran Inhofe Sanders Lankford, John Hoeven, Chuck Grass- Collins Isakson Sasse ley. nation of Wilbur L. Ross, Jr., of Flor- Coons Johnson Schatz ida, to be Secretary of Commerce. Corker Kaine f Cornyn Kennedy Schumer CLOTURE MOTION Scott Cortez Masto King LEGISLATIVE SESSION Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Cotton Klobuchar Shaheen Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I send a cloture motion to the desk. Crapo Lankford Shelby Cruz Leahy Stabenow move to proceed to legislative session. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- Daines Lee Strange The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ture motion having been presented Donnelly Manchin Sullivan question is on agreeing to the motion. under rule XXII, the Chair directs the Duckworth Markey Tester Durbin McCain Thune The motion was agreed to. clerk to read the motion. Enzi McCaskill Tillis f The bill clerk read as follows: Ernst McConnell Toomey CLOTURE MOTION Feinstein Menendez Udall EXECUTIVE SESSION We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- Fischer Merkley Van Hollen ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Flake Moran Warner Franken Murkowski Warren Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby Gardner Murphy Whitehouse EXECUTIVE CALENDAR move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- Gillibrand Murray Wicker nation of Wilbur L. Ross, of Florida, to be Graham Nelson Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Wyden Secretary of Commerce. Grassley Paul move that the Senate proceed to execu- Harris Perdue Young Mitch McConnell, John Hoeven, Deb tive session to consider Calendar No. Fischer, John Thune, Johnny Isakson, The nomination was confirmed. 15, Scott Pruitt to be Administrator of Tom Cotton, Marco Rubio, Dan Sul- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under the Environmental Protection Agency. livan, Mike Rounds, James M. Inhofe, the previous order, the motion to re- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Tim Scott, Lindsey Graham, Jerry consider is considered made and laid question is on agreeing to the motion. Moran, Pat Roberts, John Barrasso, upon the table and the President will The motion was agreed to. John Kennedy, Patrick J. Toomey. be immediately notified of the Senate’s The PRESIDING OFFICER. The f action. clerk will report the nomination. The majority leader. The legislative clerk read the nomi- LEGISLATIVE SESSION f nation of Scott Pruitt, of Oklahoma, to Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I be Administrator of the Environmental move to proceed to legislative session. LEGISLATIVE SESSION Protection Agency. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I CLOTURE MOTION question is on agreeing to the motion. move to proceed to legislative session. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I The motion was agreed to. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The send a cloture motion to the desk. f question is on agreeing to the motion. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- The motion was agreed to. ture motion having been presented EXECUTIVE SESSION f under rule XXII, the Chair directs the clerk to read the motion. EXECUTIVE SESSION EXECUTIVE CALENDAR The bill clerk read as follows: CLOTURE MOTION Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I EXECUTIVE CALENDAR We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- move that the Senate proceed to execu- tive session to consider Calendar No. 8, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the move that the Senate proceed to execu- Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby RYAN ZINKE to be Secretary of the Inte- tive session to consider Calendar No. move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- rior. nation of Scott Pruitt, of Oklahoma, to be The PRESIDING OFFICER. The 16, MICK MULVANEY to be Director of Administrator of the Environmental Protec- question is on agreeing to the motion. the Office of Management and Budget. tion Agency. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The motion was agreed to. Mitch McConnell, John Cornyn, Mike The PRESIDING OFFICER. The question is on agreeing to the motion. Rounds, Tim Scott, Johnny Isakson, The motion was agreed to. Lindsey Graham, James M. Inhofe, clerk will report the nomination. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The David Perdue, Shelley Moore Capito, The legislative clerk read the nomi- clerk will report the nomination. Roger F. Wicker, Orrin G. Hatch, Mike nation of RYAN ZINKE, of Montana, to The legislative clerk read the nomi- Crapo, James E. Risch, James be Secretary of the Interior. Lankford, John Hoeven, John Thune, nation of MICK MULVANEY, of South CLOTURE MOTION Deb Fischer. Carolina, to be Director of the Office of Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Management and Budget. f send a cloture motion to the desk. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- LEGISLATIVE SESSION jority leader. ture motion having been presented Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I CLOTURE MOTION under rule XXII, the Chair directs the move to proceed to legislative session. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I clerk to read the motion. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The send a cloture motion to the desk. The bill clerk read as follows: question is on agreeing to the motion. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- CLOTURE MOTION The motion was agreed to. ture motion having been presented We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- under rule XXII, the Chair directs the f ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby clerk to read the motion. EXECUTIVE SESSION The bill clerk read as follows: move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- nation of Ryan Zinke, of Montana, to be Sec- CLOTURE MOTION retary of the Interior. We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- EXECUTIVE CALENDAR Mitch McConnell, Roger F. Wicker, John ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Boozman, Orrin G. Hatch, Roy Blunt, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby Steve Daines, Tim Scott, Chuck Grass- move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- move that the Senate proceed to execu- ley, John Hoeven, Michael B. Enzi, nation of Mick Mulvaney, of South Carolina, tive session to consider Calendar No. 3, John Barrasso, John Thune, Mike to be Director of the Office of Management Wilbur Ross to be Secretary of Com- Rounds, Mike Crapo, James M. Inhofe, and Budget. merce. Joni Ernst, John Cornyn.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:25 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.015 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 LEGISLATIVE SESSION The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- any of its Subcommittees shall be open to the public unless the Committee or Sub- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ture motion having been presented under rule XXII, the Chair directs the committee involved, by majority vote of all move to proceed to legislative session. the Members of the Committee or such Sub- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk to read the motion. The bill clerk read as follows: committee, orders the hearing or meeting to question is on agreeing to the motion. be closed in accordance with paragraph 5(b) The motion was agreed to. CLOTURE MOTION of Rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- f Senate. ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the (b) A transcript shall be kept of each hear- EXECUTIVE SESSION Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby ing of the Committee or any Subcommittee. move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- (c) A transcript shall be kept of each busi- nation of James Richard Perry, of Texas, to ness meeting of the Committee unless a ma- EXECUTIVE CALENDAR be Secretary of Energy. jority of all the Members of the Committee John Boozman, Chuck Grassley, Johnny agrees that some other form of permanent Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Isakson, John Cornyn, James record is preferable. move that the Senate proceed to execu- Lankford, James M. Inhofe, Michael B. HEARING PROCEDURE tive session to consider Calendar No. 5, Enzi, Roger F. Wicker, Pat Roberts, Rule 4. (a) Public notice shall be given of Ben Carson to be Secretary of Housing Lamar Alexander, Bill Cassidy, John the date, place, and subject matter of any and Urban Development. Barrasso, Orrin G. Hatch, Jerry Moran, hearing to be held by the Committee or any The PRESIDING OFFICER. The David Perdue, John Thune, Mitch Subcommittee at least one week in advance question is on agreeing to the motion. McConnell. of such hearing unless the Chairman of the The motion was agreed to. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I full Committee or the Subcommittee in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ask unanimous consent that the man- volved determines that the hearing is non- clerk will report the nomination. datory quorum calls for these cloture controversial or that special circumstances The legislative clerk read the nomi- motions be waived. require expedited procedures and a majority of all the Members of the Committee or the nation of Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. Subcommittee involved concurs. In no case Florida, to be Secretary of Housing and shall a hearing be conducted with less than Urban Development. f twenty-four hours’ notice. Any document or CLOTURE MOTION MORNING BUSINESS report that is the subject of a hearing shall be provided to every Member of the Com- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I send a cloture motion to the desk. mittee or Subcommittee involved at least 72 ask unanimous consent that the Sen- hours before the hearing unless the Chair- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- ate be in a period of morning business, man and Ranking Member determine other- ture motion having been presented with Senators permitted to speak wise. under rule XXII, the Chair directs the therein for up to 10 minutes each. (b) Each witness who is to appear before clerk to read the motion. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without the Committee or any Subcommittee shall The bill clerk read as follows: objection, it is so ordered. file with the Committee or Subcommittee, at least 24 hours in advance of the hearing, a CLOTURE MOTION f written statement of his or her testimony in We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- as many copies as the Chairman of the Com- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES mittee or Subcommittee prescribes. Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby (c) Each Member shall be limited to five move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- minutes in the questioning of any witness nation of Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., of Flor- RULES OF PROCEDURE until such time as all Members who so desire ida, to be Secretary of Housing and Urban have had an opportunity to question the wit- Development. Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, ness. Mitch McConnell, Johnny Isakson, Jeff pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 2, of (d) The Chairman and Ranking Minority Flake, Steve Daines, James Lankford, the Standing Rules of the Senate, on Member of the Committee or Subcommittee Roger F. Wicker, Dan Sullivan, Thom behalf of myself and Senator CANT- or the Ranking Majority and Minority Mem- Tillis, Rob Portman, John Thune, John bers present at the hearing may each appoint WELL, I ask unanimous consent that a Hoeven, Deb Fischer, James M. Inhofe, one Committee staff member to question Tim Scott, Lindsey Graham, Jerry copy of the rules of the Committee on each witness. Such staff member may ques- Moran, Pat Roberts. Energy and Natural Resources for the tion the witness only after all Members f 115th Congress be printed in the present have completed their questioning of RECORD. the witness or at such other time as the LEGISLATIVE SESSION There being no objection, the mate- Chairman and the Ranking Majority and Mi- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I rial was ordered to be printed in the nority Members present may agree. No staff move to proceed to legislative session. RECORD, as follows: member may question a witness in the ab- sence of a quorum for the taking of testi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The RULES OF THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY mony. question is on agreeing to the motion. AND NATURAL RESOURCES BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA The motion was agreed to. GENERAL RULES Rule 5. (a) A legislative measure, nomina- f Rule 1. The Standing Rules of the Senate, as supplemented by these rules, are adopted tion, or other matter shall be included on EXECUTIVE SESSION as the rules of the Committee and its Sub- the agenda of the next following business committees. meeting of the full Committee if a written request by a Member of the Committee for MEETINGS OF THE COMMITTEE EXECUTIVE CALENDAR such inclusion has been filed with the Chair- Rule 2. (a) The Committee shall meet on man of the Committee at least one week Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I the third Thursday of each month while the prior to such meeting. Nothing in this rule move that the Senate proceed to execu- Congress is in session for the purpose of con- shall be construed to limit the authority of tive session to consider Calendar No. 9, ducting business, unless, for the convenience the Chairman of the Committee to include a James Richard Perry to be Secretary of Members, the Chairman shall set some legislative measure, nomination, or other other day for a meeting. Additional meetings matter on the Committee agenda in the ab- of Energy. may be called by the Chairman as he may The PRESIDING OFFICER. The sence of such request. deem necessary. (b) The agenda for any business meeting of question is on agreeing to the motion. (b) Hearings of any Subcommittee may be the Committee shall be provided to each The motion was agreed to. called by the Chairman of such Sub- Member and made available to the public at The PRESIDING OFFICER. The committee, Provided, That no Subcommittee least three days prior to such meeting, and clerk will report the nomination. hearing other than a field hearing, shall be no new items may be added after the agenda The legislative clerk read the nomi- scheduled or held concurrently with a full is so published except by the approval of a Committee meeting or hearing, unless a ma- majority of all the Members of the Com- nation of James Richard Perry, of jority of the Committee concurs in such con- Texas, to be Secretary of Energy. mittee on matters not included on the public current hearing. agenda. The Staff Director shall promptly CLOTURE MOTION OPEN HEARINGS AND MEETINGS notify absent Members of any action taken Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Rule 3. (a) All hearings and business meet- by the Committee on matters not included send a cloture motion to the desk. ings of the Committee and all the hearings of on the published agenda.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.053 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1125 QUORUMS these rules, given the opportunity to make a Works has adopted rules governing its Rule 6. (a) Except as provided in sub- brief and relevant oral statement before or procedures for the 115th Congress. Pur- sections (b) and (c), eight Members shall con- after questioning, and be permitted to have suant to rule XXVI, paragraph 2, of the stitute a quorum for the conduct of business counsel of his or her choosing present during Standing Rules for the Senate, I ask of the Committee. his or her testimony at any public or closed hearing, or at any unsworn interview, to ad- unanimous consent that a copy of the (b) No measure or matter shall be ordered committee rules be printed in the reported from the Committee unless twelve vise the witness of his or her legal rights. Members of the Committee are actually (c) For purposes of this rule, the terms ‘‘in- RECORD. present at the time such action is taken. vestigation’’ shall not include a review or There being no objection, the mate- (c) One Member shall constitute a quorum study undertaken pursuant to paragraph 8 of rial was ordered to be printed in the for the purpose of conducting a hearing or Rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the Sen- RECORD, as follows: ate or a preliminary inquiry, undertaken at taking testimony on any measure or matter COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND the direction of the Chairman or the Rank- before the Committee or any Subcommittee. PUBLIC WORKS ing Member, intended to determine whether VOTING there is substantial credible evidence that JURISDICTION Rule 7. (a) A rollcall of the Members shall would warrant an investigation. (Pursuant to Rule XXV, Sec. 2, Standing be taken upon the request of any Member. SWORN TESTIMONY Rules of the Senate) Any Member who does not vote on any roll- Rule 11. Witnesses in Committee or Sub- The Senate Committee on Environment call at the time the roll is called, may vote committee hearings may be required to give and Public Works is one of sixteen standing (in person or by proxy) on that rollcall at testimony under oath whenever the Chair- committees established by Rule XXV of the any later time during the same business man or Ranking Minority Member of the Senate, under which committee jurisdictions meeting. Committee or Subcommittee deems such to were last revised by the adoption of S. Res. (b) Proxy voting shall be permitted on all be necessary. If one or more witnesses at a 4, Senate Committee Reorganization, Feb- matters, except that proxies may not be hearing are required to testify under oath, ruary 11, 1977. counted for the purpose of determining the all witnesses at such hearing shall be re- Section 2 of Rule XXV as amended on Jan- presence of a quorum. Unless further limited, quired to testify under oath. uary 7, 1993 provides that the Committee a proxy shall be exercised only upon the date shall consist of seventeen Senators. SUBPOENAS for which it is given and upon the items pub- The pertinent section of Senate Rule XXV lished in the agenda for that date. Rule 12. The Chairman shall have author- follows: (c) Each Committee report shall set forth ity to issue subpoenas for the attendance of (h)(1) Committee on Environment and Pub- the vote on the motion to report the meas- witnesses or the production of memoranda, lic Works, to which shall be referred all pro- ure or matter involved. Unless the Com- documents, records, or other materials (1) posed legislation, messages, petitions, me- mittee directs otherwise, the report will not with the agreement of the Ranking Minority morials, and other matters relating to the set out any votes on amendments offered Member, (2) when authorized by a majority following subjects: during Committee consideration. Any Mem- of all the Members of the Committee, or (3) 1. Air pollution. ber who did not vote on any rollcall shall when within the scope of an investigation 2. Construction and maintenance of high- have the opportunity to have his position re- authorized under Rule 10(a). ways. corded in the appropriate Committee record CONFIDENTIAL TESTIMONY 3. Environmental aspects of outer conti- or Committee report. Rule 13. No confidential testimony taken nental shelf lands. (d) The Committee vote to report a meas- by or any report of the proceedings of a 4. Environmental effects of toxic sub- ure to the Senate shall also authorize the closed Committee or Subcommittee meeting stances, other than pesticides. staff of the Committee to make necessary shall be made public, in whole or in part or 5. Environmental policy. technical and clerical corrections in the by way of summary, unless authorized by a 6. Environmental research and develop- measure. majority of all the Members of the Com- ment. mittee at a business meeting called for the 7. Fisheries and wildlife. SUBCOMMITTEES 8. Flood control and improvement of rivers purpose of making such a determination. Rule 8. (a) The number of Members as- and harbors, including environmental as- signed to each Subcommittee and the divi- DEFAMATORY STATEMENTS pects of deepwater ports. sion between Majority and Minority Mem- Rule 14. Any person whose name is men- 9. Noise pollution. bers shall be fixed by the Chairman in con- tioned or who is specifically identified in, or 10. Nonmilitary environmental regulation sultation with the Ranking Minority Mem- who believes that testimony or other evi- and control of nuclear energy. ber. dence presented at, an open Committee or 11. Ocean dumping. (b) Assignment of Members to Subcommit- Subcommittee hearing tends to defame him 12. Public buildings and improved grounds tees shall, insofar as possible, reflect the or otherwise adversely affect his reputation for the United States generally, including preferences of the Members. No Member will may file with the Committee for its consid- Federal buildings in the District of Colum- receive assignment to a second Sub- eration and action a sworn statement of bia. committee until, in order of seniority, all facts relevant to such testimony or evidence. 13. Public works, bridges, and dams. Members of the Committee have chosen as- BROADCASTING OF HEARINGS OR MEETINGS 14. Regional economic development. signments to one Subcommittee, and no Rule 15. Any meeting or hearing by the 15. Solid waste disposal and recycling. 16. Water pollution. Member shall receive assignment to a third Committee or any Subcommittee which is 17. Water resources. Subcommittee until, in order of seniority, open to the public may be covered in whole (2) Such committee shall also study and re- all Members have chosen assignments to two or in part by web, television, or radio broad- view, on a comprehensive basis, matters re- Subcommittees. cast or still photography. Photographers and lating to environmental protection and re- (c) Any Member of the Committee may sit reporters using mechanical recording, film- source utilization and conservation, and re- with any Subcommittee during its hearings ing, or broadcasting devices shall position port thereon from time to time. but shall not have the authority to vote on their equipment so as not to interfere with any matters before the Subcommittee unless the seating, vision, and hearing of Members RULES OF PROCEDURE he is a Member of such Subcommittee. and staff on the dais or with the orderly Rule 1. Committee Meetings in General NOMINATIONS process of the meeting or hearing. (a) Regular Meeting Days: For purposes of Rule 9. At any hearing to confirm a Presi- AMENDING THE RULES complying with paragraph 3 of Senate Rule dential nomination, the testimony of the Rule 16. These rules may be amended only XXVI, the regular meeting day of the com- nominee and, at the request of any Member, by vote of a majority of all the Members of mittee is the first and third Thursday of any other witness shall be under oath. Every the Committee in a business meeting of the each month at 10:00 a.m. If there is no busi- nominee shall submit the financial disclo- Committee: Provided, that no vote may be ness before the committee, the regular meet- sure report filed pursuant to title I of the taken on any proposed amendment unless ing shall be omitted. Ethics in Government Act of 1978. Such re- such amendment is reproduced in full in the (b) Additional Meetings: The chair may port is made available to the public. Committee agenda for such meeting at least call additional meetings, after consulting three days in advance of such meeting. with the ranking minority member. Sub- INVESTIGATIONS committee chairs may call meetings, with Rule 10. (a) Neither the Committee nor any f the concurrence of the chair, after con- of its Subcommittees may undertake an in- COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT sulting with the ranking minority members vestigation unless specifically authorized by AND PUBLIC WORKS of the subcommittee and the committee. the Chairman and the Ranking Minority (c) Presiding Officer: Member or a majority of all the Members of (1) The chair shall preside at all meetings the Committee. RULES OF PROCEDURE of the committee. If the chair is not present, (b) A witness called to testify in an inves- the ranking majority member shall preside. tigation shall be informed of the matter or Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, the (2) Subcommittee chairs shall preside at matters under investigation, given a copy of Committee on Environment and Public all meetings of their subcommittees. If the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.017 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 subcommittee chair is not present, the rank- testimony at least 48 hours before the hear- Rule 6. Subcommittees ing majority member of the subcommittee ing. If a witness fails to comply with this re- (a) Regularly Established Subcommittees: shall preside. quirement, the presiding officer may pre- The committee has four subcommittees: (3) Notwithstanding the rule prescribed by clude the witness’ testimony. This rule may Transportation and Infrastructure; Clean Air paragraphs (1) and (2), any member of the be waived for field hearings, except for wit- and Nuclear Safety; Superfund, Waste Man- committee may preside at a hearing. nesses from the Federal Government. agement, and Regulatory Oversight; and (d) Open Meetings: Meetings of the com- (2) Any witness planning to use at a hear- Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife. mittee and subcommittees, including hear- ing any exhibit such as a chart, graph, dia- (b) Membership: The committee chair, ings and business meetings, are open to the gram, photo, map, slide, or model must sub- after consulting with the ranking minority public. A portion of a meeting may be closed mit one identical copy of the exhibit (or rep- member, shall select members of the sub- to the public if the committee determines by resentation of the exhibit in the case of a committees. roll call vote of a majority of the members model) and 100 copies reduced to letter or Rule 7. Statutory Responsibilities and Other present that the matters to be discussed or legal paper size at least 48 hours before the Matters the testimony to be taken— hearing. Any exhibit described above that is (1) will disclose matters necessary to be not provided to the committee at least 48 (a) Environmental Impact Statements: No kept secret in the interests of national de- hours prior to the hearing cannot be used for project or legislation proposed by any execu- fense or the confidential conduct of the for- purpose of presenting testimony to the com- tive branch agency may be approved or oth- eign relations of the United States; mittee and will not be included in the hear- erwise acted upon unless the committee has (2) relate solely to matters of committee ing record. received a final environmental impact state- staff personnel or internal staff management (3) The presiding officer at a hearing may ment relative to it, in accordance with sec- or procedure; or have a witness confine the oral presentation tion 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental (3) constitute any other grounds for clo- to a summary of the written testimony. Policy Act, and the written comments of the sure under paragraph 5(b) of Senate Rule (4) Notwithstanding a request that a docu- Administrator of the Environmental Protec- XXVI. ment be embargoed, any document that is to tion Agency, in accordance with section 309 (e) Broadcasting: be discussed at a hearing, including, but not of the Clean Air Act. This rule is not in- (1) Public meetings of the committee or a limited to, those produced by the General tended to broaden, narrow, or otherwise subcommittee may be televised, broadcast, Accounting Office, Congressional Budget Of- modify the class of projects or legislative or recorded by a member of the Senate press fice, Congressional Research Service, a Fed- proposals for which environmental impact gallery or an employee of the Senate. eral agency, an Inspector General, or a non- statements are required under section (2) Any member of the Senate Press Gal- governmental entity, shall be provided to all 102(2)(C). lery or employee of the Senate wishing to members of the committee at least 72 hours (b) Project Approvals: televise, broadcast, or record a committee before the hearing. (1) Whenever the committee authorizes a meeting must notify the staff director or the project under Public Law 89–298, the Rivers Rule 4. Business Meetings: Notice and Filing and Harbors Act of 1965; Public Law 83–566, staff director’s designee by 5:00 p.m. the day Requirements before the meeting. the Watershed Protection and Flood Preven- (3) During public meetings, any person (a) Notice: The chair of the committee or tion Act; or Public Law 86–249, the Public using a camera, microphone, or other elec- the subcommittee shall provide notice, the Buildings Act of 1959, as amended; the chair- tronic equipment may not position or use agenda of business to be discussed, and the man shall submit for printing in the Con- the equipment in a way that interferes with text of agenda items to members of the com- gressional Record, and the committee shall the seating, vision, or hearing of committee mittee or subcommittee at least 72 hours be- publish periodically as a committee print, a members or staff on the dais, or with the or- fore a business meeting. If the 72 hours falls report that describes the project and the rea- derly process of the meeting. over a weekend, all materials will be pro- sons for its approval, together with any dis- vided by close of business on Friday. Rule 2. Quorums senting or individual views. (b) Amendments: First-degree amendments (2) Proponents of a committee resolution (a) Business Meetings: At committee busi- must be filed with the chair of the com- shall submit appropriate evidence in favor of ness meetings, and for the purpose of approv- mittee or the subcommittee at least 24 hours the resolution. ing the issuance of a subpoena or approving before a business meeting. After the filing (c) Building Prospectuses: a committee resolution, seven members of deadline, the chair shall promptly distribute (1) When the General Services Administra- the committee, at least two of whom are all filed amendments to the members of the tion submits a prospectus, pursuant to sec- members of the minority party, constitute a committee or subcommittee. tion 7(a) of the Public Buildings Act of 1959, quorum, except as provided in subsection (d). (c) Modifications: The chair of the com- as amended, for construction (including con- (b) Subcommittee Meetings: At sub- mittee or the subcommittee may modify the struction of buildings for lease by the gov- committee business meetings, a majority of notice and filing requirements to meet spe- ernment), alteration and repair, or acquisi- the subcommittee members, at least one of cial circumstances, with the concurrence of tion, the committee shall act with respect to whom is a member of the minority party, the ranking member of the committee or the prospectus during the same session in constitutes a quorum for conducting busi- subcommittee. which the prospectus is submitted. ness. Rule 5. Business Meetings: Voting A prospectus rejected by majority vote of (c) Continuing Quorum: Once a quorum as the committee or not reported to the Senate prescribed in subsections (a) and (b) has been (a) Proxy Voting: (1) Proxy voting is allowed on all meas- during the session in which it was submitted established, the committee or subcommittee ures, amendments, resolutions, or other mat- shall be returned to the General Services Ad- may continue to conduct business. ters before the committee or a sub- ministration and must then be be resub- (d) Reporting: No measure or matter may mitted in order to be considered by the com- be reported to the Senate by the committee committee. (2) A member who is unable to attend a mittee during the next session of the Con- unless a majority of committee members business meeting may submit a proxy vote gress. cast votes in person. on any matter, in writing, orally, or through (2) A report of a building project survey (e) Hearings: One member constitutes a personal instructions. submitted by the General Services Adminis- quorum for conducting a hearing. (3) A proxy given in writing is valid until tration to the committee under section 11(b) Rule 3. Hearings revoked. A proxy given orally or by personal of the Public Buildings Act of 1959, as (a) Announcements: Before the committee instructions is valid only on the day given. amended, may not be considered by the com- or a subcommittee holds a hearing, the chair (b) Subsequent Voting: Members who were mittee as being a prospectus subject to ap- of the committee or subcommittee shall not present at a business meeting and were proval by committee resolution in accord- make a public announcement and provide unable to cast their votes by proxy may ance with section 7(a) of that Act. A project notice to members of the date, place, time, record their votes later, so long as they do so described in the report may be considered for and subject matter of the hearing. The an- that same business day and their vote does committee action only if it is submitted as a nouncement and notice shall be issued at not change the outcome. prospectus in accordance with section 7(a) least one week in advance of the hearing, un- (c) Public Announcement: and is subject to the provisions of paragraph less the chair of the committee or sub- (1) Whenever the committee conducts a (1) of this rule. committee, with the concurrence of the rollcall vote, the chair shall announce the (d) Naming Public Facilities: The com- ranking minority member of the committee results of the vote, including a tabulation of mittee may not name a building, structure or subcommittee, determines that there is the votes cast in favor and the votes cast or facility for any living person, except good cause to provide a shorter period, in against the proposition by each member of former Presidents or former Vice Presidents which event the announcement and notice the committee. of the United States, former Members of shall be issued at least twenty-four hours in (2) Whenever the committee reports any Congress over 70 years of age, former Jus- advance of the hearing. measure or matter by rollcall vote, the re- tices of the United States Supreme Court (b) Statements of Witnesses: port shall include a tabulation of the votes over 70 years of age, or Federal judges who (1) A witness who is scheduled to testify at cast in favor of and the votes cast in opposi- are fully retired and over 75 years of age or a hearing of the committee or a sub- tion to the measure or matter by each mem- have taken senior status and are over 75 committee shall file 100 copies of the written ber of the committee. years of age.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:25 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.019 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1127 Rule 8. Amending the Rules interviews me every month. I recently ‘‘We teach them how to be good,’’ he said. The rules may be added to, modified, read an opinion piece he wrote in the ‘‘We become good by being reborn—born amended, or suspended by vote of a majority New York Times where he gives his again.’’ He continued. ‘‘Democrats believe that we of committee members at a business meeting take on the perspective of rural Amer- if a quorum is present. are born good, that we create God, not that ica toward the role of government. he created us. If we are our own God, as the f This perspective is often lost in policy Democrats say, then we need to look at TRIBUTE TO DR. JEFFERY P. debates in our Nation’s Capital. In this something else to blame when things go HOLLAND piece, Dr. Bob gives very thorough and wrong—not us.’’ intellectually honest commentary that Mr. Watts talked about the 2015 movie the- Mr. COCHRAN. Mr. President, I wish more people should read. ater shooting in Lafayette, La., in which two to commend Dr. Jeffery P. Holland for I ask unanimous consent to have people were killed. Mr. Watts said that Re- 37 years of service to the U.S. Army publicans knew that the gunman was a bad printed in the RECORD the New York man, doing a bad thing. Democrats, he Corps of Engineers. Times article entitled, ‘‘Why Rural Dr. Holland will soon retire as the added, ‘‘would look for other causes—that America Voted for Trump’’ by Robert the man was basically good, but that it was Director of the Research and Develop- Leonard dated January 5, 2017. the guns, society or some other place where ment and Director of the Corps Engi- There being no objection, the mate- the blame lies and then they will want to neer Research Center, ERDC, rial was ordered to be printed in the control the guns, or something else—not the headquartered in Vicksburg, MS. He is RECORD, as follows: man.’’ Republicans, he said, don’t need to capping his career with a highly suc- look anywhere else for the blame. [From the New York Times, Jan. 5, 2017] cessful management term leading one Hearing Mr. Watts was an epiphany for me. of the most diverse research organiza- WHY RURAL AMERICA VOTED FOR TRUMP For the first time I had a glimpse of where tions in the world—an organization (By Robert Leonard) many of my conservative friends and neigh- bors were coming from. I thought, no wonder KNOXVILLE, IA.—One recent morning, I sat that includes seven laboratories in four Republicans and Democrats can’t agree on near two young men at a coffee shop here States with more than 2,000 employees, things like gun control, regulations or the whom I’ve known since they were little boys. including more than 1,200 Federal engi- value of social programs. We live in different Now about 18, they pushed away from the philosophical worlds, with different neers and scientists. table, and one said: ‘‘Let’s go to work. Let foundational principles. As director of R&D and chief sci- the liberals sleep in.’’ The other nodded. Overlay this philosophical perspective on entist for the Corps since 2010, Dr. Hol- They’re hard workers. As a kid, one washed the American rural-urban divides of history, land has effectively promoted its re- dishes, took orders and swept the floor at a economy and geography, and the conserv- restaurant. Every summer, the other picked search missions, including warfighter ative individual responsibility narrative be- sweet corn by hand at dawn for a farm stand support, military installations, the en- comes even more powerful. In my experience, and for grocery stores, and then went to vironment, water resources, and infor- the urban-rural divide isn’t really so much a work all day on his parents’ farm. Now one mation technology. His work has en- red state versus blue state issue, it’s red is a welder, and the other is in his first year county versus blue county. Rural Iowans hanced our Nation’s knowledge and at a state university on an academic scholar- have more in common with the rural resi- sparked innovation related to military ship. They are conservative, believe in hard dents of Washington State and New Mexico— and civilian missions of the Depart- work, family, the military and cops, and places I’ve also lived—than with the resi- ment of Defense and other agencies. they know that abortion and socialism are dents of Des Moines, Seattle and Albu- evil, that Jesus Christ is our savior, and that His leadership in research and devel- querque. opment led to numerous achievements, Donald J. Trump will be good for America. Look at a national map of which counties among them increased soldier surviv- They are part of a growing movement in went for Democrats and which for Repub- ability and improved unit protection in rural America that immerses many young licans: Overwhelmingly the blue counties are people in a culture—not just conservative combat zones. He distinguished himself along waterways, where early river transpor- news outlets but also home and church envi- tation encouraged the formation of cities, within the Senior Executive Service ronments—that emphasizes contemporary with his work to establish excellence in and surround state capitals. This is also conservative values. It views liberals as where most investment in infrastructure and human capital benchmarks, to develop loathsome, misinformed and weak, even dan- services is made. Rural Americans recognize an enterprise knowledge management gerous. that this is how it must be, as the cities are and technology transfer plan for the Who are these rural, red-county people who where most of the people are, yet it’s a sore Corps, and to develop a science and brought Mr. Trump into power? I’m a native spot. technology initiative to improve De- Iowan and reporter in rural Marion County, In state capitols across America, law- Iowa. I consider myself fairly liberal. My fense Department acquisition. makers spend billions of dollars to take a family has mostly voted Democratic since few seconds off a city dweller’s commute to Over his long career, Dr. Holland long before I was born. To be honest, for earned a reputation as a strong leader his office, while rural counties’ farm-to-mar- years, even I have struggled to understand ket roads fall into disrepair. Some of the and coalition builder, who empowered how these conservative friends and neighbors paved roads in my region are no longer main- thousands of engineers and scientists I respect—and at times admire—can think so tained and are reverting to gravel. For a cou- to find new ways to solve problems. His differently from me, not to mention how ple of generations now, services that were career has resulted in significant and over 60 percent of voters in my county could once scattered across rural areas have in- lasting contributions to the Depart- have chosen Mr. Trump. creasingly been consolidated in urban areas, Political analysts have talked about how and rural towns die. It’s all done in the name ment of the Army, the Department of ignorance, racism, sexism, nationalism, Defense, the Vicksburg community, of efficiency. Islamophobia, economic disenfranchisement In cities, firefighters and E.M.T.s are pro- and the Nation. and the decline of the middle class contrib- fessionals whose departments are funded by His distinguished tenure and out- uted to the popularity of Mr. Trump in rural local, state and federal tax dollars. Rural standing accomplishments are in keep- America. But this misses the deeper cultural America relies on volunteers. If I have a seri- ing with the highest standards of civil- factors that shape the thinking of the con- ous heart attack at home, I’ll be cold to the ian service and reflect great credit servatives who live here. touch by the time the volunteer ambulance upon him, the Department of the For me, it took a 2015 pre-caucus stop in crew from a town 22 miles away gets here. Pella by J. C. Watts, a Baptist minister Urban police officers have the latest in Army, and the Department of Defense. raised in the small town of Eufaula, Okla., I am pleased to commend Dr. Holland computer equipment and vehicles, while who was a Republican congressman from 1995 small-town cops go begging. for his many years of service and to to 2003, to begin to understand my neigh- In this view, blue counties are where most wish him well in the years ahead. bors—and most likely other rural Americans of our tax dollars are spent, and that’s where f as well. all of our laws are written and passed. To ‘‘The difference between Republicans and rural Americans, sometimes it seems our PERSPECTIVE OF RURAL AMERICA Democrats is that Republicans believe peo- taxes mostly go to making city residents TOWARD THE ROLE OF GOVERN- ple are fundamentally bad, while Democrats live better. We recognize that the truth is MENT see people as fundamentally good,’’ said Mr. more complex, particularly when it comes to Watts, who was in the area to campaign for social programs, but it’s the perception that Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, there Senator Rand Paul. ‘‘We are born bad,’’ he matters—certainly to the way most people is a very good radio reporter in said and added that children did not need to vote. smalltown Iowa named Robert Leon- be taught to behave badly—they are born To make matters worse, jobs are con- ard, or ‘‘Dr. Bob,’’ as he is known, who knowing how to do that. tinuing to move to metropolitan areas.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:25 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.021 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 Small-town chamber of commerce directors ficiaries to access fresh local foods at mental Affairs Subcommittee on Fed- and mayors still have big dreams, and use Farmers Markets; he was determined eral Financial Management, Govern- their perkiest grins and tax abatements to that children should have more access ment Information, Federal Services, try to lure new businesses, only to see their to nutritious foods in WIC, schools, and and International Security. There, he hopes dashed, time and again. Many towns with a rich history and strong community childcare. While Kevin and I agree on helped us to identify and address pride are already dead; their citizens just that goal, I must add that, as a native waste, fraud, and abuse in government don’t know it yet. Mainer, Kevin may have missed the spending and financial improvement, Many moderate rural Republicans became mark on where white potatoes fit into audit readiness, and business trans- supporters of Mr. Trump when he released those meal plans. formation at our Federal agencies. his list of potential Supreme Court nominees Kevin Concannon came to USDA During my 2008 Presidential campaign, who would allow the possibility of over- with an amazingly broad spectrum of Justin served as a senior advance team turning Roe v. Wade. They also think the experience. From 1987 to 1995, he served lead. It was in that context that I was liberal worldview creates unnecessary rules and regulations that cripple the economy as the director of Oregon Department first introduced to Justin’s boundless and take away good jobs that may belong to of Human Resources; after having love of life and energy. them or their neighbor. Public school sys- served commissioner of Maine Depart- Justin also served as the director for tems and colleges are liberal tools of indoc- ment of Mental Health and Correc- candidate operations and advance for trination that go after what we love and tions. In 1995, I was fortunate to be able the Scott Brown for Senate 2012 cam- value most—our children. to bring him back to his home State of paign; a financial systems analyst with Some of what liberals worry about they see Maine to serve as the commissioner of the EMCOR Group; and a Navy/NASA as pure nonsense. When you are the son or Maine’s Deparment of Human Services. university faculty fellowship program daughter of a carpenter or mechanic and a housewife or secretary who lives paycheck to At the time, I commented that he was manager with the American Society paycheck, who can’t afford to send kids to the Dan Marino of commissioners and for Engineering Education, ASEE. college, as many rural residents are, white welcomed him back. I would point out Justin never took his young life for privilege is meaningless and abstract. that Dan Marino is now serving as the granted. An avid runner and adven- It’s not just older people. The two young VP of the Dolphins, and I expect that, turous soul, Justin sought to improve men at breakfast exemplify a younger gen- in the same way, Kevin Concannon will himself by taking courses in further- eration with this view. When Ted Cruz cam- find ways to continue his public serv- ance of a master’s in national security paigned in a neighboring town in 2015, I ice—and that will benefit us all. watched as a couple of dozen grade-school and strategic studies at the U.S. Naval pupils sat at his feet, as if they were at a Kevin led efforts throughout his ca- War College, after having received a children’s service at church. His campaign reer to improve child welfare, expand B.S. in business administration from speech was nearly a sermon, and the children Medicaid and child health insurance, the University of Florida and grad- listened wide-eyed when he told them the integrate programs of public health uated East Lake High School. Also, un- world is a scary place, and it’s godly men and medical care, and improve systems bowed by his continuing struggle with like him who are going to save them from for long-term care for elders and people cancer and always filled with hope, the evils of President Obama, Hillary Clinton with disabilities. Many of those efforts Justin married the love of his life, Eliz- and their fellow Democrats. were national in scope, and he was se- While many blame poor decisions by Mrs. abeth. Clinton for her loss, in an environment like lected by his peers to serve as the Justin will be forever remembered this, the Democratic candidate probably president of the American Public Wel- for the joy he brought to the lives of didn’t matter. And the Democratic Party fare Association from 1994 to 1995. his family, friends, and colleagues with may not for generations to come. The Repub- In every role, in every effort, Kevin his humor, energy, and selflessness. lican brand is strong in rural America—per- Concannon has been an exemplary pub- Throughout his young life, Justin al- haps even strong enough to withstand a dis- lic servant and leader. ways made sure that those closest to astrous Trump presidency. Margaret Chase Smith said it best: him knew how important they were to Rural conservatives feel that their world is ‘‘Public service must be more than under siege, and that Democrats are an him. enemy to be feared and loathed. Given the doing a job efficiently and honestly. It Cindy and I extend our warmest con- philosophical premises Mr. Watts presented must be a complete dedication to the dolences to Justin’s wife, Elizabeth; his as the difference between Democrats and Re- people and to the nation.’’ Kevin mother Jean Nowakowski; his step- publicans, reconciliation seems a long way Concannon is the personification of mother Karen Stevens, with whom Jus- off. total dedication, honesty, and deter- tin was exceptionally close; his siblings f mination to make the world a better Bryan and Damon; his niece Magdalena place; that has been the hallmark of TRIBUTE TO KEVIN CONCANNON and nephew Jackson. Thank you. his work each and every day. f Mr. KING. Mr. President, today I Congratulations and best wishes to wish to recognize and congratulate Kevin Concannon, and welcome home. ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS Kevin Concannon on his retirement f and distinguished career. The fact that Kevin Concannon retired is not news— REMEMBERING ROBERT JUSTIN TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL ILITCH he has done that several times before, STEVENS ∑ Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, and each time, he moved onto more ex- Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I rise today I wish to honor a champion for citing and challenging positions. today in fond memory of Robert Justin Detroit and for Michigan, Mike Ilitch. In 2016 Kevin Concannon retired from Stevens, a former staffer of mine who Everyone from Michigan knows his life the USDA as the Undersecretary of recently passed away—entirely too story: the son of Macedonian immi- Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Serv- young—after a long, arduous fight with grants, he founded Little Caesars ices after 8 years of service. cancer. Pizza, one of the largest pizza chains in Kevin is a tireless advocate of peo- Justin was exemplary in his desire to the world, and rebuilt both the Detroit ple—all people. His work to assure that serve and his love for public policy and Tigers and the Detroit Red Wings into every effort was made to address hun- politics. He was a dedicated public world class, winning franchises. He led ger in this country is an indicator of servant who worked tirelessly to im- the Red Wings to four Stanley Cups his compassion, understanding of both prove the lives of Americans. Over the and brought the Tigers to the World the issues and solutions, and his un- last few years, Justin managed Federal Series twice. wavering faith in the ability of this policy and advocacy for homeland se- The story of Mike Ilitch is the story great country to care for those who are curity, public safety, and military-re- of never doing anything halfway. He struggling—whether it is food insecu- lated issues as legislative director with embodies the American dream: he rity or earlier in his career on mental the National Governors Association. served as a marine, built a business health issues, long-term care, and child Before that, Justin worked with me, empire, and had an eye for perfection welfare. and later with Senator Scott Brown, as that led him to incredible success. At USDA, Kevin worked tirelessly to a professional staff member at the Sen- For him though, it wasn’t enough to increase options for SNAP bene- ate Homeland Security and Govern- be satisfied with success in business or

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.022 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1129 sports; it was all about giving back. He The message also announced that sive student achievement information; to the said it himself: ‘‘I was raised in De- pursuant to section 4 of the Virgin Is- Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and troit. I came from zero. This commu- lands of the United States Centennial Pensions. nity helped make me. It’s nice to give Commission Act (Public Law 114–224), By Mr. CORKER (for himself, Mr. CARDIN, Mr. ALEXANDER, and Mr. something back.’’ and the order of the House of January KAINE): He loved Detroit and worked to revi- 3, 2017, the Speaker appoints the fol- S. 352. A bill to award a Congressional Gold talize the city while maintaining its lowing Members of the House of Rep- Medal to Master Sergeant Rodrick ‘‘Roddie’’ cultural history. His company, Olym- resentatives to the Virgin Islands of Edmonds in recognition of his heroic actions pia Entertainment, purchased the Fox the United States Centennial Commis- during World War II; to the Committee on Theater and restored it in 1988. He sion: Mr. MACARTHUR of New Jersey Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. By Ms. COLLINS (for herself and Ms. built Comerica Park, home to the Ti- and Mrs. LOVE of Utah. gers. His recent $40 million donation to The message further announced that CANTWELL): the Wayne State University School of S. 353. A bill to amend title XVIII of the pursuant to 36 U.S.C. 2302, and the Social Security Act to extend the rural add- Business will help build their state-of- order of the House of January 3, 2017, on payment in the Medicare home health the-art facility on Woodward Avenue, the Speaker appoints the following benefit, and for other purposes; to the Com- next to the new home of the Red Wings Members of the House of Representa- mittee on Finance. and the Pistons, Little Caesars Arena. tives to the United States Holocaust By Mr. COTTON (for himself and Mr. Detroit is better off because of the Memorial Council: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN PERDUE): S. 354. A bill to amend the Immigration work that he did. And the people of De- of Florida, Mr. ZELDIN of New York, troit are better off because of his work. and Nationality Act to eliminate the Diver- and Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. sity Visa Program, to limit the President’s From his philanthropic organization The message also announced that that has given to those in need and the discretion in setting the number of refugees pursuant to Executive Order No. 12131, admitted annually to the United States, to program he started through Little and the order of the House of January reduce the number of family-sponsored im- Caesars that helps honorably dis- 3, 2017, the Speaker appoints the fol- migrants, to create a new nonimmigrant charged veterans get employed, Mike lowing Members of the House of Rep- classification for the parents of adult United Ilitch gave people a chance to succeed resentatives to the President’s Export States citizens, and for other purposes; to and to thrive. the Committee on the Judiciary. Council: Mr. TIBERI of Ohio, Mr. KELLY Mike will be sorely missed by all of By Mrs. SHAHEEN (for herself and Ms. of Pennsylvania, and Mr. REICHART of us. His legacy is shared by his loving COLLINS): Washington. wife of over 61 years, Marian, and his S. 355. A bill to amend the Federal Lands The message further announced that seven children, but it is also shared by Recreation Enhancement Act to provide for pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 6968(a), and the a lifetime National Recreational Pass for everyone in Michigan and all of those order of the House of January 3, 2017, any veteran with a service-connected dis- who love Detroit. Thank you.∑ the Speaker appoints the following ability; to the Committee on Energy and f Members of the House of Representa- Natural Resources. By Ms. STABENOW (for herself, Mr. tives to the Board of Visitors to the MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE PETERS, Mr. BROWN, and Mr. At 12:03 p.m., a message from the United States Naval Academy: Mr. FRANKEN): House of Representatives, delivered by MURPHY of Pennsylvania and Mr. S. 356. A bill to amend title XXI of the So- Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, DESANTIS of Florida. cial Security Act to improve access to, and announced that pursuant to 22 U.S.C. The message also announced that the delivery of, children’s health services 6913, and the order of the House of Jan- pursuant to section 2(a) of the National through school-based health centers, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- uary 3, 2017, the Speaker appoints the Cultural Center Act (20 U.S.C. 76h(a)), amended by Public Law 107–117, and nance. following Members of the House of Rep- By Mrs. FEINSTEIN: resentatives to the Congressional-Ex- the order of the House of January 3, S. 357. A bill to direct the Secretary of the ecutive Commission on the People’s 2017, the Speaker appoints the fol- Interior to convey certain public lands in Republic of China: Mr. SMITH of New lowing Member of the House of Rep- San Bernardino County, California, to the Jersey, Co-Chairman, Mr. PITTENGER of resentatives to the Board of Trustees San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation North Carolina, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, of the John F. Kennedy Center for the District, and to accept in return certain ex- changed non-public lands, and for other pur- and Mr. HULTGREN of Illinois. Performing Arts: Mrs. COMSTOCK of The message further announced that Virginia. poses; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- ural Resources. The message further announced that pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2761, and the By Mr. CASEY (for himself, Mr. ISAK- order of the House of January 3, 2017, pursuant to section 603 of the Depart- SON, Mr. RUBIO, and Ms. WARREN): the Speaker appoints the following ment of State Authorities Act, Fiscal S. 358. A bill to establish a designation for Member of the House of Representa- Year 2017 (Public Law 114–323), and the jurisdictions permissive to terrorism financ- tives to the British-American Inter- order of the House of January 3, 2017, ing, to build the capacity of partner nations parliamentary Group: Mr. COLE of the Speaker appoints the following in- to investigate, prosecute, and hold account- Oklahoma. dividual on the part of the House of able terrorist financiers, to impose restric- The message also announced that Representatives to the Western Hemi- tions on foreign financial institutions that pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 276h, and the provide financial services for terrorist orga- sphere Drug Policy Commission: Ms. nizations, and for other purposes; to the order of the House of January 3, 2017, Mary Bono of Washington, DC. Committee on Foreign Relations. the Speaker appoints the following The message also announced that By Mr. NELSON (for himself and Mr. Members of the House of Representa- pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 2501, and the RUBIO): tives to the Mexico-United States order of the House of January 3, 2017, S. 359. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Interparliamentary Group: Mr. the Speaker appoints the following enue Code of 1986 to provide a reduced excise MCCAUL of Texas, Chairman, Mr. Member of the House of Representa- tax rate for portable, electronically-aerated DUFFY of Wisconsin, Vice-Chairman, bait containers; to the Committee on Fi- tives to the National Historical Publi- nance. Mr. HURD of Texas, and Mr. PEARCE of cations and Records Commission: Mr. By Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself, Mr. New Mexico. MEADOWS of North Carolina. TESTER, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. The message further announced that f BLUMENTHAL, Ms. HIRONO, Mr. pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 276d, and the MENENDEZ, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Mr. order of the House of January 3, 2017, INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND MERKLEY, Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, and the Speaker appoints the following JOINT RESOLUTIONS Mr. VAN HOLLEN): Members of the House of Representa- The following bills and joint resolu- S. 360. A bill to amend the Help America tives to the Canada-United States tions were introduced, read the first Vote Act of 2002 to require States to provide Interparliamentary Group: Mr. for same day registration; to the Committee and second times by unanimous con- on Rules and Administration. HUIZENGA of Michigan, Chairman, Mr. sent, and referred as indicated: By Mr. CRUZ (for himself, Mr. GRASS- YOUNG of Alaska, Mr. POLIQUIN of By Mr. HATCH: LEY, and Mr. LEE): Maine, and Mr. CRAMER of North Da- S. 351. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- S. 361. A bill to amend section 349 of the kota. cation Act of 1965 to provide for comprehen- Immigration and Nationality Act to deem

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:25 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G13FE6.040 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1130 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 specific activities in support of terrorism as Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act New Jersey (Mr. MENENDEZ) were added renunciation of United States nationality, to allow for the personal importation as cosponsors of S. 338, a bill to protect and for other purposes; to the Committee on of safe and affordable drugs from ap- scientific integrity in Federal research the Judiciary. proved pharmacies in Canada. and policymaking, and for other pur- By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, and Mr. VAN HOLLEN): S. 102 poses. S. 362. A bill to provide that 6 of the 12 At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the S. 347 weeks of parental leave made available to a name of the Senator from New Jersey At the request of Mr. COONS, the Federal employee shall be paid leave, and for (Mr. MENENDEZ) was added as a cospon- name of the Senator from New York other purposes; to the Committee on Home- sor of S. 102, a bill to direct the Federal (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) was added as a co- land Security and Governmental Affairs. Communications Commission to com- sponsor of S. 347, a bill to amend the By Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself, Mr. mence proceedings related to the resil- Small Business Act and the Small HOEVEN, Ms. BALDWIN, Mrs. GILLI- BRAND, Ms. HEITKAMP, Mr. FRANKEN, iency of critical communications net- Business Investment Act of 1958 to in- Mr. LEAHY, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. SAND- works during times of emergency, and crease the percentage of loans guaran- ERS, and Mr. PETERS): for other purposes. teed for small business concerns that S. 363. A bill to revise the authorized route S. 109 are manufacturers. of the North Country National Scenic Trail At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the S.J. RES. 13 in northeastern Minnesota and to extend the name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. At the request of Mrs. ERNST, the trail into Vermont to connect with the Ap- palachian National Scenic Trail, and for KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. name of the Senator from Arkansas other purposes; to the Committee on Energy 109, a bill to amend title XVIII of the (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor and Natural Resources. Social Security Act to provide for cov- of S.J. Res. 13, a joint resolution pro- By Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself and erage under the Medicare program of viding for congressional disapproval Mr. BOOZMAN): pharmacist services. under chapter 8 of title 5, United S. 364. A bill to amend the Food Security S. 178 States Code, of the final rule submitted Act of 1985 to exempt certain recipients of At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the by the Secretary of Health and Human Department of Agriculture conservation as- Services relating to compliance with sistance from certain reporting require- names of the Senator from Rhode Is- ments, and for other purposes; to the Com- land (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) and the Senator title X requirements by project recipi- mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- from Hawaii (Ms. HIRONO) were added ents in selecting subrecipients. mental Affairs. as cosponsors of S. 178, a bill to prevent S.J. RES. 14 By Mr. ROUNDS: elder abuse and exploitation and im- At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the S. 365. A bill to amend the Consumer Fi- prove the justice system’s response to names of the Senator from Alaska (Ms. nancial Protection Act of 2010 to remove the victims in elder abuse and exploitation MURKOWSKI) and the Senator from funding cap relating to the transfer of funds North Dakota (Mr. HOEVEN) were added from the Board of Governors of the Federal cases. Reserve System to the Bureau of Consumer S. 241 as cosponsors of S.J. Res. 14, a joint Financial Protection, and for other purposes; At the request of Mrs. ERNST, the resolution providing for congressional to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and name of the Senator from Arkansas disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, Urban Affairs. (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor United States Code, of the rule sub- By Mr. ROUNDS: of S. 241, a bill to prohibit Federal mitted by the Social Security Adminis- S. 366. A bill to require the Federal finan- funding of Planned Parenthood Federa- tration relating to Implementation of cial institutions regulatory agencies to take tion of America. the NICS Improvement Amendments risk profiles and business models of institu- Act of 2007. tions into account when taking regulatory S. 251 At the request of Mr. STRANGE, his actions, and for other purposes; to the Com- At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. name was added as a cosponsor of S.J. Res. 14, supra. fairs. BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of S. f 251, a bill to repeal the Independent S.J. RES. 16 Payment Advisory Board in order to At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND ensure that it cannot be used to under- name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. SENATE RESOLUTIONS mine the Medicare entitlement for BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of The following concurrent resolutions beneficiaries. S.J. Res. 16, a joint resolution approv- and Senate resolutions were read, and S. 253 ing the discontinuation of the process for consideration and automatic imple- referred (or acted upon), as indicated: At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the By Mr. DAINES (for himself, Mr. name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. mentation of the annual proposal of the Independent Medicare Advisory TESTER, Mr. LANKFORD, Mr. GARD- BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of S. NER, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. HOEVEN, and 253, a bill to amend title XVIII of the Board under section 1899A of the Social Mr. UDALL): Social Security Act to repeal the Medi- Security Act. S. Res. 60. A resolution designating May 5, S. RES. 58 2017, as the ‘‘National Day of Awareness for care outpatient rehabilitation therapy At the request of Ms. WARREN, the Missing and Murdered Native Women and caps. name of the Senator from Rhode Island Girls’’; to the Committee on the Judiciary. S. 324 (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) was added as a co- At the request of Mr. HATCH, the f sponsor of S. Res. 58, a resolution con- name of the Senator from Oklahoma gratulating the New England Patriots ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS (Mr. INHOFE) was added as a cosponsor on their victory in Super Bowl LI. S. 63 of S. 324, a bill to amend title 38, f At the request of Mr. MORAN, the United States Code, to improve the name of the Senator from Oklahoma provision of adult day health care serv- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED (Mr. INHOFE) was added as a cosponsor ices for veterans. BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS of S. 63, a bill to clarify the rights of S. 326 By Mrs. FEINSTEIN: Indians and Indian tribes on Indian At the request of Mr. HELLER, the S. 357. A bill to direct the Secretary lands under the National Labor Rela- name of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. of the Interior to convey certain public tions Act. PERDUE) was added as a cosponsor of S. lands in San Bernardino County, Cali- S. 92 326, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- fornia, to the San Bernardino Valley At the request of Mr. MCCAIN, the enue Code of 1986 to provide for the Water Conservation District, and to ac- names of the Senator from Vermont tax-exempt financing of certain gov- cept in return certain exchanged non- (Mr. LEAHY), the Senator from Maine ernment-owned buildings. public lands, and for other purposes; to (Mr. KING), the Senator from Rhode Is- S. 338 the Committee on Energy and Natural land (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) and the Senator At the request of Mr. NELSON, the Resources. from Ohio (Mr. BROWN) were added as names of the Senator from Minnesota Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I cosponsors of S. 92, a bill to amend the (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) and the Senator from am pleased to reintroduce the Santa

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.003 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1131 Ana River Wash Plan Land Exchange sources of the area in an environ- Native women whose cases are documented Act. This legislation directs the Bu- mentally sensitive manner. and undocumented in public records and the reau of Land Management, BLM, to ex- I want to applaud diverse members of media; and change land with the San Bernardino the Wash Committee that worked to- (B) to demonstrate solidarity with the families of victims in light of those trage- Valley Water Conservation District, gether, including the cities of Highland dies. the District, in San Bernardino, CA, as and Redlands, East Valley Water Dis- f part of a regional land management trict, the County of San Bernardino, plan. Robertson’s Ready Mix, CEMEX, the ORDERS FOR TUESDAY, The bill is the culmination of years San Bernardino Valley Municipal FEBRUARY 14, 2017 of collaboration between numerous Water District, and the San Bernardino Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Federal and State agencies, private in- Valley Water Conservation District, ask unanimous consent that when the dustry, and municipalities representing along with the Federal, State and local Senate completes its business today, it mining, flood control, water supply and stakeholders, for their continued ef- adjourn until 10 a.m., Tuesday, Feb- wildlife conservation, among other in- forts on the Wash Plan. ruary 14; that following the prayer and terests. This group has demonstrated that, pledge, the morning hour be deemed Included among the supporters of while it takes significant time, fund- expired, the Journal of proceedings be this land exchange are county of San ing, and cooperation, it is possible to approved to date, and the time for the Bernardino; city of Redlands; city of simultaneously protect the environ- two leaders be reserved for their use Highland; San Bernardino Water Con- ment and support local jobs, business, later in the day; further, that following servation District; San Bernardino Val- and community interests. leader remarks, the Senate proceed to ley Municipal Water District: East Val- I would also like to thank my col- executive session as under the previous ley Water District; Endangered Habi- leagues, Representatives PAUL COOK order. tats League; CEMEX Construction Ma- and PETE AGUILAR, for introducing The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without terials Pacific; Robertson’s Ready Mix similar legislation in the House. objection, it is so ordered. and Inland Action I look forward to working with my f In 1993, representatives from this di- colleagues to pass the Santa Ana River verse group formed the Wash Com- Wash Plan Land Exchange Act. ORDER FOR ADJOURNMENT mittee to address mining issues in the f Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, if upper Santa Ana River wash area. there is no further business to come be- SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS The role of the committee subse- fore the Senate, I ask unanimous con- quently expanded in 1997 to consider sent that it stand adjourned under the the broad range of land uses in the SENATE RESOLUTION 60—DESIG- previous order, following the remarks area, including natural resource con- NATING MAY 5, 2017, AS THE of Senator RUBIO. servation. ‘‘NATIONAL DAY OF AWARENESS The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The Wash Committee developed a FOR MISSING AND MURDERED objection, it is so ordered. strategy that focused best uses for NATIVE WOMEN AND GIRLS’’ The Senator from Florida. more comprehensive planning and not f on private property boundaries that Mr. DAINES (for himself, Mr. would segment the area. The result is a TESTER, Mr. LANKFORD, Mr. GARDNER, VENEZUELA forthcoming Land Management and Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. HOEVEN, and Mr. Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I come Habitat Conservation Plan expected to UDALL) submitted the following resolu- here this evening to speak on the issue cover 4,500 acres. tion; which was referred to the Com- of human rights in Venezuela and de- This land exchange will take place in mittee on the Judiciary: velopments today in regard to all these a designated region within the Santa S. RES. 60 issues. It is part of the broader effort Ana Wash, at the junction of the Santa Whereas, according to a study commis- my office has undertaken for a while Ana River and Mill Creek. sioned by the Department of Justice, in some now. It is the hashtag ‘‘Expression NOT Currently, land within the Santa Ana tribal communities, American Indian women Oppression’’ campaign. Wash is owned by both the District and face murder rates that are more than 10 Every week we come here to the floor BLM. times the national average murder rate; of the Senate when in session and high- Whereas, according to the Centers for Dis- The land parcels owned by the dis- ease Control and Prevention, homicide was light political prisoners and dissidents trict are currently used for recharging the third-leading cause of death among whose lives are being destroyed by op- the local groundwater aquifer through American Indian and Alaska Native women pressive regimes around the world. more than 77 basins and also provide between 10 and 24 years of age and the fifth- Today, I will be highlighting the case critical Riversidian sage scrub habitat leading cause of death for American Indian of Leopoldo Lopez, a Venezuelan oppo- for a number of State and federally and Alaska Native women between 25 and 34 sition leader who, 3 years ago this listed species. In addition, under this years of age; week, led peaceful demonstrations plan, new land would be set aside for Whereas little data exist on the number of against the regime of Nicolas Maduro, missing American Indian and Alaska Native conservation purposes near land al- women in the United States; and he was thrown in jail for it. ready managed by BLM. Whereas, on July 5, 2013, Hanna Harris, a I am honored that this week we will The exchange of land between the member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, be visited here in Washington by Lilian district and BLM will connect a cur- was reported missing by her family in Lame Tintori, Leopoldo’s wife and the moth- rent patchwork of separately owned Deer, Montana; er of their two children. She is an in- land parcels into a consolidated open Whereas the body of Hanna Harris was credibly brave woman who does not space for conservation purposes and found 5 days after she went missing; rest as she continues advocating for will optimize the efficiency of mining Whereas Hanna Harris was determined to her husband’s release and the release of have been raped and murdered, and the indi- operations and water conservation ef- viduals accused of committing those crimes all political prisoners and continues to forts. were convicted; fight for a free and democratic Ven- The land transfer resulting from this Whereas the case of Hanna Harris is an ex- ezuela. So I want to recognize her as legislation will lead to increased habi- ample of many similar cases; and she visits Washington this week to ask tat protection, improved connectivity Whereas Hanna Harris was born on May 5, for our government’s continued help. in the wildlife corridor, expanded 1992: Now, therefore, be it Before I get into Leopoldo’s case, I groundwater recharge for water supply, Resolved, That the Senate— want to take a few moments to talk and the future establishment of public (1) designates May 5, 2017, as the ‘‘National about what is happening in our own access and trails. Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Western Hemisphere and in Venezuela Native Women and Girls’’; and Additionally, the legislation will (2) calls on the people of the United States specifically. allow the continued use of land and and interested groups— For decades, the Western Hemisphere mineral resources while maintaining (A) to commemorate the lives of missing has been neglected by our foreign pol- the biological and hydrological re- and murdered American Indian and Alaska icy—sadly, by administrations of both

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A13FE6.007 S13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with SENATE S1132 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE February 13, 2017 parties. As we see all over the world, thoritarians like Castro and Chavez, ists and to individuals with links to when America fails to lead and engage Maduro, Ortega, Morales, Correa, and terrorism. on the world stage, bad actors emerge others. But it is Venezuela’s economy that is and they grow emboldened, while our Today in Venezuela, all these prob- perhaps the saddest story of all. The enemies and adversaries rush to fill the lems have come together to bring this failures of Chavez-style socialism in void. We see democracy under assault country—one of the richest countries Venezuela led to misery for people and with it, an assault on the uni- in the world in terms of resources—to there of all ages. Not that long ago, versal, God-given rights and dignity of the verge of becoming a failed state, Venezuela was a relatively rich econ- citizens throughout this region. and today the people of that proud omy. It is a rich country blessed with Despite the one-sided concessions of country are living a nightmare. oil and other natural resources, and it the past 2 years, Castro’s Cuba remains Not that long ago, Venezuela was a has long had a well-educated popu- as repressive as ever. In Nicaragua, vibrant democracy. It had strong lation and vibrant middle class. But Daniel Ortega ran for and won an un- democratic and independent institu- under Hugo Chavez and Nicolas constitutional third term, with his wife tions. It had free and fair elections. Maduro, Venezuela has been crumbling. as the Vice President. Of course, we are But today in Venezuela, democracy and Caracas, the capital of Venezuela, has growing increasingly familiar with the human rights are under assault. The become the murder capital of the economic, social, and political disaster country is ruled by an incompetent world. It is one of the most dangerous in Venezuela, which I shall elaborate strongman—a criminal, a human rights cities on the planet. Venezuela is de- on shortly. abuser, someone who has perverted faulting on its loans. In fact, it will By the way, I am also concerned every independent institution in the owe about $6 billion in April. They will about the impact of ongoing, rampant country, and is incompetent, whether not be able to make those payments. In corruption in the region, which will un- it is the judiciary, the military, intel- Venezuela, the grocery shelves are dermine democratic governments and ligence, or the media—in order to en- bare—a rich country, and they are their institutions. trench himself and his cronies in completely bare. Everyday products, There is another major issue plagu- power. like toilet paper, are scarce, as is food. ing the region and threatening the se- Here in the United States, when we The people of Venezuela are literary curity of the United States, and that is have disagreements, people use dif- starving, so much so that a recent rising insecurity stemming from narco- ferent rules at their disposal to prolong Miami Herald article from last week terrorist drug cartels. In recent years, debates and slow things down. We are detailed how people have turned to we have seen the worst of them—the aware of that here in the Senate. In hunting and eating flamingos for food. FARC in Colombia—brought to their Venezuela, when people have disagree- By now, many of us have seen the im- knees and to the negotiating table by ments, especially with the government, ages of newborn babies being put in the Colombian Government’s efforts. they just try to stop debates com- cardboard boxes at the hospital be- But Mexico and other countries pletely. For example, after the opposi- cause these hospitals can no longer af- throughout Central America continue tion party in Venezuela miraculously ford cribs. to be threatened by organizations such won the last legislative election—de- So it comes as no surprise that the as these. spite every effort by the Maduro gov- Venezuelan people, living in misery A third problem in the region is the ernment to steal that election—the like this—robbed of their dignity and lack of economic opportunity. It is Venezuelan state police then blocked aspiring for more than this disaster— simply in America’s interest to have the new members of the Parliament would choose to speak up. They began more prosperous neighbors, people to from going to work. to do so in full force 3 years ago this sell to and trade with. Ultimately, if Imagine for a moment 2, 4 years ago, week. That is when Venezuelan stu- people can’t earn enough money to feed 2012, when President Obama was elect- dents took to the streets to protest the their families and live in a safe neigh- ed, if he had ordered—in 2014, when Re- violence and the scarcity of basic ne- borhood, they will either pick up and publicans took control of the Senate, cessities due to the negligent, incom- leave by any means necessary, includ- imagine if at that time the President petent policies enacted by the Maduro ing illegal immigration, or they will had ordered the police to stand at the regime. What began as a student pro- join drug gangs. door of the Chamber and not allow Sen- test soon became something bigger. It I know that too often there is a tend- ators from the Republican Party to became a movement. ency to overlook what is happening in enter the Chamber. That is what hap- Government thugs responded to this our own region. Some might say: I pened in Venezuela. Then that same movement with violence, and the have enough problems here at home to government in Venezuela ordered their peaceful demonstrations came to look worry about what is going on in other hacks on the kangaroo supreme court like a combat zone: 43 people dead, 600 countries. But I hope that everyone re- to invalidate laws passed by the Na- people injured, and approximately 3,400 members that all of this I have de- tional Assembly to free political pris- people detained. Among those detained scribed and am about to talk about ul- oners. was Leopoldo Lopez, a Venezuelan op- timately has direct consequences on us Venezuela also has a drug cartel position leader. The government of here in the United States and on our problem. In fact, there are officials in Maduro outrageously accused him of people. When you have a breakdown in the highest levels of the Venezuelan being responsible for all of this vio- any of these areas, people in these Government who have even been linked lence, and they threw him in jail and countries look to leave. The first place to drug cartels. Among them is the he has been there ever since. It has they often look to is the freest and the former head of the National Assembly, been about 1,100 days. To put that num- most prosperous country in the re- Diosdado Cabello, and the Vice Presi- ber into context, Washington Post re- gion—in the world—the United States dent of that country, Tareck El porter Jason Rezaian was held prisoner of America. Because it also happens to Aissami. I will talk about him in a mo- by the Iranian regime for 544 days. The be relatively close, that creates immi- ment. Iranian hostage crisis of 1979 lasted 444 gration pressures on our borders and on We also learned last week—and I days. In September 2015, Leopoldo our communities. came to the floor to discuss the CNN Lopez was sentenced to 13 years, 9 When economies aren’t functioning, report confirming what my office had months, 7 days, and 12 hours for his it means American workers and entre- been gathering for a while. By the way, participation in the protests. In jail he preneurs have fewer customers abroad that is going to be airing tonight on has suffered physical and psychological to sell products and services to. And CNN, the second part of that series. We torture. when you have all of this instability, learned that organized crime syn- He is the father of two young chil- vacuums are created that foreign en- dicates in Venezuela, with the tacit ap- dren, and he is married to Lilian emies or adversaries like North Korea, proval of the Government of Venezuela, Tintori. He was the mayor of Chacao, Iran, China, and Russia seek to fill, not of Maduro, are running counterfeit and the leader of Popular Will or to mention terrorist organizations. It passport rings, with counterfeit Ven- Voluntad Popular political party. He allows for the rise of tyrants and au- ezuelan passports being sold to terror- will be a critical part of building a

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Like Leopoldo, they each the extent to which corrupt regime of- an even more extraordinary human have a lot to contribute to make Ven- ficials have been allowed to freely trav- being off the field. ezuela a better place, but the Ven- el and prance around free U.S. soil with He is a man to much has been given, ezuelan Government is robbing them of impunity. whether it was the chance to be born to their freedom, and it is robbing their I am hopeful this is only the begin- two great parents, an incredible sup- families of the memories every child ning of the sanctions today, to make port network, and of course God. He and spouse deserves to create with sure the Maduro regime feels pressured has been given much, and he has given their father, husband, and loved ones. to cease its illicit activities, to free all back even more. We saw this once All these political prisoners should of its political prisoners, to tolerate again this past Friday, when the Tim be free. I have encouraged, publicly and dissent, and respect the will of the Tebow Foundation held its Night to privately, our new Secretary of State Venezuelan people who voted to aban- Shine Initiative, an annual prom for and the administration to make the don the disastrous past of Chavez and special needs students from all over the freedom of these political prisoners Maduro. world. their cause and to make it a priority. I I am hopeful this is only the begin- All told, 375 churches participated as know we are trying to work through ning of making sure the Maduro regime Night to Shine hosts in all 50 States, 11 our top-level Cabinet nominations here feels pressure to cease its illicit activi- countries, and on 6 continents. There in the Senate, but we need to get peo- ties and everything it is doing that has were 150,000 volunteers, and 75,000 spe- ple in place in other key roles through- placed Venezuela on this disastrous cial needs students were the guests of out the administration; for example, path. honor at events across the world. I en- our next Ambassador to the Organiza- We in this country are a blessed peo- courage those of you here today or tion of American States, where the ple, to have a vibrant democracy that watching this or watching this in the United States needs to recommit to serves as an example to the world. future to Google search Night to Shine, making its voice heard in that forum With those blessings come the respon- to visit Tim Tebow’s Facebook page, or as a voice for democracy and human sibility of speaking out when we see to see the hashtag ‘‘Night to Shine’’ on rights and for holding Venezuela’s re- others yearning to be free but re- Twitter. There you will see all of the gime accountable for violations of the pressed by their government. In recent photos that have been shared from Fri- Inter-American Democratic Charter. years, this body, the Senate, has spo- day night’s events. You will see 75,000 I am also pleased that today the ad- ken unanimously in support of the young people with special needs having ministration announced a new round of Venezuelan people’s aspirations, and the time of their lives. You will see sanctions against a key Venezuelan of- we have spoken unanimously against volunteers and teachers and especially ficial. Specifically, Venezuela’s Execu- the Maduro regime’s brutality. parents overcome with joy and emotion tive Vice President Tareck Zaidan El Today I come to the Senate to renew at the sight of their children feeling as Aissami Maddah, El Aissami, as I that support. To Leopoldo Lopez, all of loved, as important, and as special as talked about him earlier, and Ven- Venezuela’s political prisoners, and all each and every one of them truly is. ezuelan national Samark Jose Lopez in Venezuela who are fighting for a bet- Personally, I was very moved. So I Bello were sanctioned under the King- ter life, we stand with you, and we will wanted to take a few minutes this pin Act for international narcotics continue doing everything in our power evening to recognize Tim Tebow, the trafficking. to make sure your cause is supported Tebow Foundation, the churches and Aissami’s primary front man was by this Congress and by this adminis- the volunteers who participated, and Samark Jose Lopez Bello, whom I just tration. all of the incredible students and par- discussed. He was designated for pro- f ents who inspire us every day. I know viding material assistance, financial I speak on behalf of the entire Gator TRIBUTE TO TIM TEBOW support or goods and services, and sup- Nation—I should say the entire State port of international narcotics traf- Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, finally, on of Florida—in saying that we are proud ficking activities and acting for or on a separate topic, I did want to take of Tim. We are even prouder of all he behalf of El Aissami. Five U.S. compa- this moment to recognize someone I has done and continues to do. nies owned or controlled by Lopez am proud to represent in the Senate. With that, Mr. President, I yield the Bello have been blocked as part of to- He is a fellow Floridian and a con- floor. day’s action. stituent by the name of Tim Tebow. By All five of them are located in my now, a lot of people know I am proud to f home State of Florida. In fact, all five be a University of Florida alum. So as ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. of them have mailing addresses in a proud Gator fan, I have been rooting TOMORROW South Florida where I live. Among the for Tim Tebow since he first stepped properties seized: A U.S.-registered air- foot on campus in 2006. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- craft with the tail number N200VR. It He went on to win two national ate stands adjourned until 10 a.m. to- has been identified as block property championships, becoming the first morrow. owned or controlled by PSA Holdings, sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy, Thereupon, the Senate, at 8:20 p.m., LLC, controlled by Lopez Bello and by and in the process he rewrote the adjourned until Tuesday, February 14, El Aissami, with funds that were able record books. When I was the Speaker 2017, at 10 a.m. to get by conducting prohibited trans- of the Florida House of Representa- f actions dealing with drug traffickers. tives, we hosted the Gators champion- It is an outrage that the Vice Presi- ship team. One of my favorite memo- CONFIRMATIONS dent of a country in our hemisphere ries of my time in State government Executive nominations confirmed by not only is a narcotrafficker but is also was catching a pass from Tim Tebow— the Senate February 13, 2017: in the business of selling passports and No. 15—on the floor of the Florida DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY travel documents to people with links House. It was not a great pass, but I STEVEN T. MNUCHIN, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE SEC- to terrorism. caught it. The rules are a little dif- RETARY OF THE TREASURY. For years now, I have been talking ferent in the Senate. I wish it were OK DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS about how Venezuelan regime officials to throw passes in here, but it was a DAVID J. SHULKIN, OF PENNSYLVANIA, TO BE SEC- were committing crimes in Venezuela, great pleasure to be able to do that. RETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.

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HONORING JONATHAN R. ELAM very special life. Frank is an outstanding father IN RECOGNITION OF SHEILA and a true blessing to our Demarest commu- STEPHENS’ RETIREMENT HON. JARED HUFFMAN nity. I am sure he and his family had a won- OF CALIFORNIA derful time celebrating, dancing, and singing in HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Italian. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to OF TEXAS join me in honoring Frank and wishing him Monday, February 13, 2017 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES many more years of good health and happi- Monday, February 13, 2017 Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in ness. recognition of Jonathan (Jon) Elam on the oc- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to casion of his retirement as General Manager f honor Sheila Stephens, who is retiring from of Tamalpais Community Services District public service after 44 years with the City of (TCSD) after twelve years of stellar service. IN HONOR OF MR. GARY Keller. Ms. Stephens started working for the Starting in 2005, after a professional career SCHNEIDERS city in 1972 as an assistant to the Water De- in public works and city management, Mr. partment Manager. At that time, there were Elam was hired as General Manager of TCSD, only 1,500 residents and 25 people employed where he served the residents of Tamalpais HON. ROD BLUM by the city. She was appointed by the city Valley and Marin County at large with distinc- council to be city secretary in 1977. During her OF IOWA tion for a dozen years. 39 years in the position, Ms. Stephens dem- Under his leadership as General Manager, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES onstrated a level of professionalism and ex- he reinvigorated the refuse collection program pertise in municipal government that she has and created numerous new programs, includ- Monday, February 13, 2017 exhibited with colleagues in the City of Keller ing food waste collection and popular collec- Mr. BLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to as well as in other municipalities. tion programs such as e-waste, batteries, honor a remarkable teacher and citizen from During her tenure, the City of Keller’s popu- printer ink cartridges, eyeglasses and medical lation has grown to over 44,000 people and Waterloo, Iowa. Mr. Gary Schneiders has disposal, as well as two paper shredding days city staff has expanded to 300 people to serve taught History, Social Studies, and Economics per year for the TCSD service area. From up- the needs of the community. In her almost at Waterloo Columbus Catholic High School grading park and recreation facilities, to install- four decades with the city, Ms. Stephens su- ing new fire safe efforts, to working to ensure for 39 years. Over those 39 years, Mr. Schnei- pervised 76 elections, recorded countless our agencies are compliant with EPA regula- ders has made an enormous impact on the meetings, documented 2,900 deaths and 100 tions, Mr. Elam established a productive track lives of his students and members of the com- births in addition to fulfilling 2,960 open record for getting things done. munity. records requests. She has faithfully served Mr. Elam’s commitment to environmental Mr. Schneiders’s devotion goes beyond the under 12 mayors and 12 city managers pro- stewardship has been a common thread classroom with his annual trip to the hallowed viding needed continuity and depth. Current throughout his work and volunteer service. Not ground of Europe’s battlefields. This trip is no Keller Mayor Mark Matthews declared Decem- only did Mr. Elam serve as the Delegate for European vacation. Students walk the trench- ber 30, 2016 as ‘‘Sheila Stephens Day’’ to the California Climate Registry to the United es of the Western Front, and explore battle- thank Sheila for the hard work and time she Nations climate meetings, but he also has par- fields with a twelve mile hike one day and dedicated to her community. ticipated in a variety of local organizations, in- twenty mile bike-ride another day. Prior to I would like to express my appreciation for cluding the Carbon Cycle Institute, the San their departure, students are given reading as- the 44 years of exemplary service Sheila Ste- Anselmo Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Com- signments and must complete a 20 page phens gave to our community and extend best mittee, and the Marin County Solid Waste JPA essay. While in Europe, the students have wishes upon her retirement. It is my privilege Advisory Council. He also served in a number nightly homework assignments. This annual to represent the residents of Keller in the of volunteer roles in the community including trip is highly anticipated and one that many United States House of Representatives. his recent role as the president of the Marin Waterloo Columbus students work toward their f Conservation League. entire high school career. Mr. Elam’s professional and civic contribu- IN RECOGNITION OF REV. LEE tions leave a lasting and positive legacy that The itinerary also includes visits to several WON SANG will continue to benefit the local residents and American cemeteries and memorials honoring regions for years to come. He is a true envi- our fallen heroes, and a wreath-laying cere- HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK ronmentalist, and I’m sure he will continue to mony at the Meuse-Argonne American Ceme- OF VIRGINIA fight the good fight in retirement. tery. On the final day, the students visit the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Please join me in congratulating Mr. Elam Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial Monday, February 13, 2017 on his retirement and expressing our deep ap- where they clean the grave markers, plant an preciation for his long and exceptional career American Flag, and lay a rose on the grave of Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I would like and outstanding civic engagement. every Iowan. At the end of the day, students to take a moment to honor the life of Rev- f lay their final wreath of the trip at Normandy erend Lee Won Sang, a Pastor Emeritus of as Taps sounds in the background. the Korean Central Presbyterian Church in Vir- HONORING FRANK LUCIA’S 107TH ginia’s 10th District. Throughout his life, Rev. BIRTHDAY Upon their return to Iowa, the students give presentations to their families, fellow students, Lee was a respected leader in the community, served with admiral purpose, and placed a and residents of Waterloo and Cedar Falls; strong importance on education. HON. JOSH GOTTHEIMER with a special invitation extended to the local Rev. Lee was born in Manchuria, China in OF NEW JERSEY Veteran community. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1937. He began his higher education and path Over the past 39 years, Mr. Schneiders has to service by earning a bachelor’s degree in Monday, February 13, 2017 shown his students what cannot be taught in Theology from Keimyung University and a Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise a classroom—the meaning of sacrifice and master’s degree in Theology from Kyungbuk today to wish a very happy birthday to Frank love of country. Today, we honor his devotion University. In the early 1970s, he moved to Lucia, a treasured member of our North Jer- that extends far beyond the classroom and the United States to further his education, sey community. Frank recently celebrated his helps to ensure the preservation of American where he attended the Dallas Theological 107th birthday, a tremendous milestone in a values for generations to come. Seminary to study the Old Testament. After

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

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K13FE8.001 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS E176 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 13, 2017 graduating from that program, he started work- programs, The Wonderful Company has an team. It was his father’s business partner ing for the Korean Central Presbyterian extensive history of philanthropy and commu- Hoke Evetts that taught him the art of Church, but also was pursuing a Doctorate nity involvement. auctioneering. Following high school, Peter at- from the University of Pennsylvania. After retir- The Seventeenth Annual Chamber of Com- tended College of the Sequoias and graduated ing, he went on to receive a Ph.D. from the merce Corporate Citizenship Awards recog- from Missouri Auction School as a Colonel in University of Wales in the U.K. at the age of nized The Wonderful Company for its work in 1974. 72, a true testament to the importance Rev. Lost Hills, California, home of the company’s Peter took over his father’s role at Overland Lee placed on continuous education and largest pistachio plant, which serves as the Stockyard following Pete’s sudden death in growth. economic backbone of the local community. In 1983. Peter continued his father’s legacy Outside of his education, Rev. Lee is known fact, more than fifty percent of households in through the passion he put into his work each for his 23 years of work and leadership at the Lost Hills have family members who work at and every day. Peter became very well known Korean Central Presbyterian Church in Cen- the Wonderful Pistachio plant. Always com- in the dairy cattle, and beef cattle sales indus- treville, Virginia where I have frequently vis- mitted to the wellbeing of the local community, try both locally and throughout the country. He ited. The congregation has grown to almost The Wonderful Company has made significant was an innovative businessman, utilizing inter- 9,000 members at its main location, many of investments in Lost Hills, investing more than net video auction capabilities, allowing buyers whom are my 10th District constituents. In ad- $15 million in transportation and infrastructure from all over the country to participate in auc- dition to his work at the Korean Central Pres- projects, such as roads and sidewalks, bus tions held in Hanford. byterian Church, Rev. Lee took on many other shelters, storm drains, and streetlights. It has Peter had a number of hobbies that brought projects to advance the church globally and also rejuvenated the community park with two him joy. In his spare time he enjoyed visiting help within his community. He founded the community centers, two soccer fields, his home in Shell Beach, riding his pontoon Central Missionary Fellowship (CMF) in 1988, volleyball and basketball courts, playgrounds, boat through Shaver Lake and barbecuing for which later evolved into SEED International, and a broad range of community activities and his many family and friends. an organization which helped establish 12 events. The Wonderful Company has also Peter enjoyed giving back to the community overseas missionary groups. SEED Inter- helped build affordable housing, assisted with he loved so dearly. He frequently used his tal- national was the first Korean Missionary orga- financing and construction of the town’s first ents as a skilled auctioneer for local charity nization to become a member of the Mission sit-down restaurant, and recently received ap- groups, including the Kings County Fair and NEXUS organization. Additionally, Rev. Lee proval from the Kern County Board of Edu- the Fresno Fair. He was also a lifelong mem- founded Prassion, which is a SEED Inter- cation to open a charter school in the commu- ber of St. Brigid Catholic Church in Hanford. national affiliate and independent mission or- nity next fall. Peter is survived by his wife of 35 years, ganization focused on prayer movement na- This prestigious honor recognizes the hard Lisa and their children Julie, Daniel and Doug- tionally and internationally. work and significant investment made by Mr. las, their spouses and three grandsons, In Washington, D.C., Rev. Lee helped es- and Mrs. Stewart and Lynda Resnick, owners Bryson, Korban and Peter. tablish the Washington Youth Foundation and of The Wonderful Company. They have dedi- Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask my col- even was afforded the opportunity to lead the cated their lives not only to growing a suc- leagues in the U.S. House of Representatives opening prayer for the 107th U.S. Congress cessful and sustainable business, but to im- to join Mr. VALADAO and myself in honoring the on October 10, 2002. proving the lives of so many across the globe, life of Mr. Peter Belezzuoli. He will be remem- Mr. Speaker, I now ask that my colleagues especially those in the communities The Won- bered as a man of great character, who val- join me in recognizing Rev. Lee’s years of derful Company calls home. ued his family above all else. His presence in community service. Today, we honor and cele- Mr. Speaker, we ask our colleagues in the the San Joaquin Valley and in the local dairy brate the contributions the Reverend has United States House of Representatives to community will truly be missed. We join his made not just within the 10th District, but on join us in congratulating The Wonderful Com- family in honoring his life, service to his com- a global level. pany for receiving the U.S. Chamber of Com- munity and tremendous legacy he leaves be- f merce Foundation’s 2016 Corporate Citizen- hind. ship Award for Best Community Improvement f IN RECOGNITION OF THE Program. The Wonderful Company’s altruistic WONDERFUL COMPANY leadership provides an exceptional example of IN RECOGNITION OF THE VINE- corporate responsibility and we look forward to YARD AND WINERY AT LOST HON. DAVID G. VALADAO their future initiatives that continue to make CREEK OF CALIFORNIA the world a better place, one community at a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES time. HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK Monday, February 13, 2017 f OF VIRGINIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today HONORING THE LIFE OF PETER and am joined by Mr. MCCARTHY and Mr. VINCENT BELEZZUOLI Monday, February 13, 2017 COSTA of California, to commend The Wonder- Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ful Company for receiving the U.S. Chamber HON. JIM COSTA to celebrate and commend my constituents, of Commerce Foundation’s 2016 Corporate OF CALIFORNIA Todd and Aimee Henkle, on their victory in the Citizenship Award for Best Community Im- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competi- provement Program. tion. This win not only speaks to the hard The Best Community Improvement Program Monday, February 13, 2017 work, entrepreneurship and expertise of Todd Award honors businesses for the many ways Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along and Aimee Henkle, but also the growing and they influence and enhance local communities. with my colleague Mr. VALADAO, to honor the transforming Virginia wine industry. Companies from around the world compete for life and achievements of Peter Vincent In 1998 the two visited Bordeaux, France for this award, making it an extraordinary ac- Belezzuoli. Peter passed away on December their honeymoon, where they decided that one knowledgment of outstanding corporate social 15 at the age of 61. He will be remembered day they wanted to own their very own winery responsibility. The Wonderful Company was as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and vineyard. In 2007, corporate jobs brought presented with the esteemed 2016 U.S. auctioneer, dairyman, and friend to all who them to northern Virginia, and they quickly be- Chamber Foundation Corporate Citizenship knew him. came very impressed with what DC’s Wine Award for Best Community Improvement Pro- Peter was born on August 22, 1955 in County had to offer. In 2012, they had an op- gram. Tulare, California to Pete and Louise portunity to buy a plot of land in Leesburg, be- Since 1979, The Wonderful Company has Belezzuoli. In 1959, the Belezzuolis moved to tween Route 15 and the Potomac River, from quickly grown and become known worldwide Hanford, California after his father purchased an old vineyard owner, and with Todd’s busi- for its almonds, bottled water, citrus fruits, Overland Stockyard. From a young age, Peter ness background and Aimee’s passion for flower bouquets, pistachios, pomegranates, worked with his father to learn all aspects of wine, The Vineyard and Winery at Lost Creek and wines. However, its legacy does not stop the cattle business. He graduated from Han- was born. there. Investing nearly $200 million in edu- ford High School in 1973. During his years at Since opening five years ago, their hard cation, environmental technologies and sus- Hanford High he was a member of 4–H and work has certainly come to fruition. They have tainability research, and health and wellness FFA, in addition to playing on the basketball been recognized nationally and most recently

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A13FE8.001 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E177 have won the Best in Class in the Public Library and to commend its Food for Mayor Roger Vance, Vice Mayor Steve chardonnays priced between $26 and $29.99 Fines program. The Fannin County Public Li- Morgart, Council Member at Large John Dean, category with their wine, Lost Creek Reserve brary started this initiative a decade ago, and Council Member at Large Joseph Gertig, Chardonnay. this year’s program runs through the end of Council Member at Large Amy Newton In today’s society, family owned small busi- the month. Food for Fines is a smart, creative Marasco, Council Member at Large Matt nesses are crucial to the future of our nation way to give back to the community. It allows Parse, and the Town Clerk, Sherry Vance on and my constituents in the 10th District are individuals with overdue fines to donate non- the historic boundary line expansion. Today, proud they call Loudoun County their home. It perishable food items in lieu of a fee. For we honor and celebrate the town’s history as is families like the Henkles that help foster every food item donated, the library forgives one of Loudoun County’s most important as- strong, local economies by establishing suc- one dollar of fines. sets. cessful business practices that can be carried All of the donations from this food drive will f out for multiple generations. go to support the Fannin County Family Con- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me nection. The program benefits individuals in INTRODUCTION OF THE DISTRICT in applauding Todd and Aimee Henkle on their need and library patrons alike. Last year the li- OF COLUMBIA COURTS AND PUB- great accomplishment and successful small brary estimated that it collected nearly $500 LIC DEFENDER SERVICE VOL- business. I wish Todd, Aimee, and their chil- worth of non-perishable food items. Over the UNTARY SEPARATION INCEN- dren, Evan and Ryan, the best in their future years, it has become commonplace for those TIVE PAYMENTS ACT endeavors. who donate to do so in excess of their fine out f of support for this community cause. HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON Mr. Speaker, the ongoing success of this OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HONORING THE LIFE OF KITTY program speaks to the investment that the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MOON EMERY Fannin County Public Library staff and library patrons have made in their community. It is a Monday, February 13, 2017 HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN privilege to represent such civic-minded indi- Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I intro- OF TENNESSEE viduals and to recognize their service to their duce the District of Columbia Courts and Pub- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES neighbors. The Fannin County Public Library’s lic Defender Service Voluntary Separation In- Monday, February 13, 2017 Food for Fines program is an example of the centive Payments Act. The bill, which passed Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, there are inclusive service I see throughout Northeast the House in the 114th Congress, would make those who live their lives with distinct Georgia. a small but important change to the authorities intentionality. They have the ability to inspire f of the District of Columbia Courts (D.C. their communities by bringing innovation and IN HONOR OF THE HILLSBORO Courts) and the Public Defender Service for change in their relentless pursuit to make the TOWN EXPANSION the District of Columbia (PDS), placing these world a better place. They use their creativity entities in the same position as their federal to bring beauty and encourage leaders to counterparts for more effective management reach their fullest potentials. I am saddened HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK and operation. OF VIRGINIA by the loss of my friend, Kitty Moon Emery. I The bill would give the D.C. Courts and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES was fortunate to have met her early in my ca- PDS the same authority federal agencies and reer and always appreciated her advice and Monday, February 13, 2017 federal courts already have to offer voluntary counsel as she was one of those special lead- Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ac- separation incentive payments, or buyouts, to ers. knowledge my constituent, the Honorable their employees. The fiscal year 2016 omnibus Kitty was a Nashville native who had an en- Roger Vance, Mayor of the Town of Hillsboro, bill already gives D.C. Courts buyout authority, dearing love for Tennessee and our country. Vice Mayor Steve Morgart, Council Member at but my bill would make this authorization per- She worked as one of only two female press Large John Dean, Council Member at Large manent, and would extend it to PDS in addi- secretaries in the Senate under Senator Bill Joseph Gertig, Council Member at Large Amy tion to the D.C. Courts. Buyouts would allow Brock. She later went on to become the As- Newton Marasco, Council Member at Large the D.C. Courts and PDS to respond to future sistant National Director of Advertising for the Matt Parse, and the Town Clerk, Sherry administrative and budget needs, and would presidential campaign of Ronald Reagan. Kitty Vance on their historic boundary line expan- provide the flexibility to extend buyout offers to was eventually appointed by Secretary Henry sion. Not only did this expansion triple the their employees. Kissinger to a United Nations Advisory Com- town’s size from 55 to 171 acres and increase The U.S. Government Accountability Office mittee. In these spheres she broke many bar- the population from 80 to 115 residents, but it (GAO) has determined that voluntary separa- riers by filling positions that were not tradition- also created more economic opportunity, im- tion incentive payments may be made only ally held by women. proved walkability, and added businesses and where statutorily authorized. Federal agencies Kitty was a treasured advisor to many. She neighbors that have long considered them- and federal courts already have the statutory served as the chairman for the Metro Sports selves residents of Hillsboro. authority to offer buyouts, and PDS and the Authority and played a vital role by serving on Hillsboro, located in Western Loudoun D.C. Courts need the same express authority many boards including the Country Music As- County, was first settled in the mid-1750s by in order to manage their workforce as budget sociation, the CMA Foundation, the Rotary a small group of Quakers as a milling town. conditions and needs change. Club of Nashville, and Leadership Music. More Given the town’s location and its position on I urge my colleagues to support this impor- recently she founded the consulting firm Kitty the Short Hill Mountain formed by the North tant legislation. Moon Enterprises to support leaders in the Fork of Catoctin Creek, the small group of f Middle Tennessee Region. houses and mills became known as the Gap, Kitty’s presence in Nashville will be deeply a term still widely used today. After many IMPORTANCE OF A U.S.-U.K. missed. Her love and devotion to community years of growth and development, the Gap be- TRADE DEAL brought people together and made Tennessee came an incorporated town in 1802 called a much better place to live. I rise today to cel- Hillsborough. Many years later in 1893, the HON. TED POE ebrate her lasting achievements and ask my name was shortened to Hillsboro. OF TEXAS colleagues to join with me in honoring her life. Thanks to the work of Mayor Vance and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Town Council, today Hillsboro is among the Monday, February 13, 2017 RECOGNIZING FANNIN COUNTY best-preserved rural towns in the country, and PUBLIC LIBRARY with this successful expansion the town will be Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, this past able to expand and improve the historic area. summer British citizens chose to reclaim their HON. DOUG COLLINS This improvement, along with the town’s ongo- independence. In a landmark referendum they ing initiatives to increase economic oppor- decided to leave the European Union and take OF GEORGIA charge of their economic future. Now, in the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tunity, will help build a sustainable future for Loudoun County (careful we have other rural wake of Brexit, it is important that we pre- Monday, February 13, 2017 towns in Loudoun). serve, as Winston Churchill first put it in 1946, Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, I now ask that my colleagues the special relationship between the U.S. and rise today to recognize the Fannin County join me in recognizing the Town of Hillsboro, the U.K.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A13FE8.004 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS E178 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 13, 2017 Our two nations are bound together by a or maybe even opened up for other nations to Bobbie was accepted for the Regional Leader- shared history, a common language, and a join. ship Development Program where she worked friendship that reaches back hundreds of The geopolitical effects of a trade deal may in the SSA Office of Public Service and Oper- years. Now our two countries got off to a be just as important as the deal itself. This ations Support on the SDW ramp up initiative. rough start. The Crown opposed our inde- deal can send a message to those opposed to In 2004, she was promoted to Assistant Dis- pendence and then burned the Capitol and the our shared values of freedom and liberty that trict Manager in the Fresno office, and later White House in the War of 1812. But Great the United States and the United Kingdom are that year, she accepted a yearlong detail to Britain is not only our oldest enemy but our standing strong together. the SSA Office of Public Service and Oper- oldest ally. For over two hundred years our And that’s just the way it is. ations Support where she worked on the cross two countries have partnered together to pre- f program recovery project. Bobbie was pro- serve peace and security. From the trenches moted to Level 1 District Manager position in of WWI to the mountains of Afghanistan, our IN RECOGNITION OF VED the Southeast Fresno SSA office in 2005 men and women have spilt blood together on VENGSARKER ACHIEVING A PER- where she served until 2008. In 2008, she the battlefield. Our relationship is deep and FECT SCORE ON THE AMERICAN was given a detail in the SSA Central Office special. COLLEGE TEST to assist with the transition for the newly A trade deal represents yet another oppor- formed SSA Office of Disability Determinations tunity to deepen our relationship. The previous HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK Division. She returned to her Level 1 District Administration threatened to put the U.K. ‘‘at OF VIRGINIA Manager position in 2009. the back of the queue’’ for a trade deal. But IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Bobbie’s ongoing hard work and dedication that kind of snub to our greatest ally is exactly Monday, February 13, 2017 resulted in many awards throughout the years. the opposite of what we should be doing. Some of the awards she received are: The A bilateral agreement will enhance the flow Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to Commissioner’s Citation, Deputy Commis- of commerce and boost the welfare of our congratulate Briar Woods High School’s very sioner’s Citation, Regional Citation and Com- economies. Trade deals that do not help the own Ved Vengsarker on achieving a perfect missioner’s Team Award. United States are things of the past. A bilat- score on the American College Test (ACT)— In is with great pleasure that I applaud Bob- eral trade agreement can be in both our inter- a respected college admissions test in the bie Summers for her many years of tireless ests. United States. Ved, now a high school junior, work on behalf of the United States govern- The U.K. shares many values and business began studying diligently last summer in prep- ment. practices with the U.S. Our similarities will aration, reviewing his ACT books during the Mr. Speaker, it should be noted that in addi- help ensure a smooth negotiation process as week and taking several practice tests each tion to her countless gifts to the Social Secu- neither side will be forced into making hard weekend. His perfect score is not only a testa- rity Administration and our community, Bobbie concessions. For example, because Britain’s ment to his hard work and dedication, but also has been a true champion for my constituents. workers are paid at about the same rate as the exemplary teachers and faculty at Briar In my office, a majority of our constituent Americans, we do not have to worry about Woods High School located in Ashburn, Vir- casework involves the Social Security Admin- American manufacturers moving factories to ginia who helped cultivate Ved’s intellectual in- istration. These are sensitive cases that can the English countryside. Jobs will not be sent trigue. sometimes take a great deal of time to re- overseas. We will be able to streamline regu- Each year less than one-tenth of a percent solve. One member of my Fresno staff, Ms. lations and reduce barriers to trade. That of the ACT test-taking population receive a Kelly Gill has worked closely with Bobbie means more consumers for U.S. goods. Our perfect score. Ved is a self-driven individual Summers on Social Security issues for over two countries already enjoy close economic who understands the need to prepare early twenty years and proudly recollects Bobbie al- ties. No country receives more investment and continue practicing until you achieve your ways being available to discuss cases and from Britain than the United States. And the goal. It is young, hardworking students like work together on issues of concern. I ask my United States is the largest investor in the Ved who will help Loudoun County, Virginia’s colleagues to join me today in recognizing the United Kingdom. 10th District, and even the United States grow commitment, dedication and success of Bob- In my home state of Texas, the U.K. is the tremendously in the future. bie Summers and wish her well as she em- number one foreign direct investor. It sends Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join barks on new endeavors. over $2.5 billion dollars a year into the Texas me in congratulating Ved Vengsarker for f economy. This investment has helped to bring achieving a perfect score on the ACT test. It more than 87,000 jobs to hardworking Texans. is a privilege to represent him, and I wish him HONORING COWGIRL CREAMERY Texas is a great place to do business. The all the best in his future endeavors. British people see that. But these kinds of f HON. JARED HUFFMAN gains are not limited to Texas alone. Every OF CALIFORNIA HONORING THE SERVICE OF day over a million Americans go to work for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES British companies based in the U.S. It is crit- BOBBIE SUMMERS Monday, February 13, 2017 ical that we turn our backs on trade. Houston is dependent on the free flow of goods. Over HON. JIM COSTA Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 50 percent of the city’s economy is based on OF CALFIORNIA recognize Cowgirl Creamery and its founders, the Port of Houston. But that does not mean IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sue Conley and Peggy Smith, in honor of the the United States has to give away the farm 20th anniversary of this artisan cheese com- Monday, February 13, 2017 to get a trade deal done. We can have free pany, which has over the past two decades and fair trade. We can level the playing field Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to been a leader in the evolution of the local, for American businesses, give American recognize Ms. Bobbie Summers for her out- state, and national artisan cheese market. goods better access to consumers around the standing work with the Social Security Admin- Opened in 1997, the idea of Cowgirl Cream- world, and increase American jobs. istration (SSA) and to congratulate her on her ery began years earlier when Sue and Peggy, The new Administration has expressed its retirement after 40 years of dedicated service. each with twenty years of culinary experience, preference for bilateral deals over more cum- Bobbie began her career with the Social Se- settled in Point Reyes Station in West Marin, bersome multilateral agreements. A bilateral curity Administration in 1976. She was hired California. Inspired by local agricultural matri- deal with the U.K. is a great place to start. for a Claims Representative position in Han- arch Ellen Straus and her son, Albert Straus, Once the U.K. is able to throw off the shackles ford through the outstanding Scholar Program. who established organic milk producers west of the EU’s restrictive trade policies, there will After her time in Hanford, Bobbie worked as a of the Mississippi, Sue and Peggy decided to be better opportunities for job growth and in- Claims Representative in Southeast Fresno, combine their culinary expertise and environ- vestment. West Fresno, Fresno Downtown and as Oper- mental stewardship ethos to create an artisan A free trade deal between the United King- ations Supervisor for the Madera SSA office. cheesemaking business. Several years after dom and the United States will be an impor- In 1984, Bobbie was promoted to an Oper- purchasing a barn in downtown Point Reyes tant symbol of our dedication to promoting ations Supervisor position in the Fresno SSA Station, and after renovating, restoring, and economic freedom. Together we can come up office. In 1990, she was promoted to Branch acquiring the permits to open Tomales Bay with the gold standard of trade deals. This Manager in Carmel. Bobbie returned to Fresno Foods as a distribution company, Cowgirl deal could serve as a model for future deals in 1993 as an Operations Supervisor. In 2003, Creamery was opened.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A13FE8.009 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E179 Over the next twenty years, Cowgirl Cream- portunity beyond better managing daily life. IN HONOR OF LIZ THOMAS ery became an organic-certified creamery Most of our nation’s elders will live many known for its award-winning cheeses, and its years after retirement: Their goals for those HON. DONALD NORCROSS founders became leaders in sustainable food years are to be productive, engaged and open OF NEW JERSEY and artisan cheese movement in the North to new people, new experiences, and new IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Bay. With over ten different types of cheeses ideas. Its members quickly and clearly under- Monday, February 13, 2017 produced from milk from neighboring dairies stood how Beacon Hill Village could advance and two creameries with a staff of nearly 100, Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today those goals. the company is still growing its business and to honor Liz Thomas, a smart and savvy influence in the region. At the time of its open- Almost from the start, word of Beacon Hill businessperson, a wonderful friend and some- ing, there were few cheese companies in Village’s success serving its own members one who always supports organizations and Marin and Sonoma. Today, the West Marin re- spread. More and more communities, from causes near and dear to her heart. gion is considered a dairy and cheese appella- near and far, were soon flooding Beacon Hill On Saturday, February 11, 2017, Liz’s friends, family and colleagues will gather to- tion, and the region’s artisan cheese industry Village with requests for help in creating vil- gether to celebrate at the Hearts of Gold Sa- has bloomed thanks in large part to the suc- lages of their own. In response, just a few cess of Cowgirl Creamery. There are 28 maritan Gala and to honor her as she receives years after it opened in 2002, Beacon Hill Vil- the Samaritan Healthcare and Hospice Circle cheesemakers in the region and more in the lage was the chief force behind the creation of making, and the Marin-Sonoma Cheese Trail of Excellence Award. the Village to Village Network, dedicated to boasts a large following. Ms. Thomas began her communications ca- Not only did the founders of Cowgirl Cream- helping communities everywhere design their reer in the press office of New Jersey Gov- ery serve as advocates and mentors for local own villages reflecting local needs and using ernor Thomas Kean. Then, she moved on to agriculture and cheese producers, they en- local resources. Today that Network has more serve as Deputy Director of the New Jersey gaged with non-profit organizations supporting than 350 open and developing villages serving Division of Travel and Tourism. In 1989, she sustainable agriculture and with government members numbering over 40,000. These vil- opened her first public relations firm and she officials to advance the interests and growth in lages are all across the nation, in 45 states has been working hard in that field ever since. the environmentally-responsible food move- and the District of Columbia, and in six coun- In her professional capacity as co-founder ment. Sue served on the board of Marin Agri- tries abroad. and CEO of Thomas/Boyd, Ms. Thomas is fre- quently called upon to use her extensive cultural Land Trust for 18 years and is on the Mr. Speaker, I am convinced, that the best board of the California Artisan Cheese Guild. knowledge of communications, government re- days of Beacon Hill Village, the Village to Vil- Peggy serves as President of the American lations and event management to ensure that lage Network and the villages of the nation, Cheese Society, a national platform that pro- businesses, non-profit organizations, profes- vides educational resources for other are still ahead of them. Their message is sim- sional societies and service companies have cheesemakers, retailers, distributors and ple, forceful and optimistic: aging should be to successful events and communication cam- cheese enthusiasts. each individual’s own design. No one, as they paigns throughout the area. Inducted into the Guilde des Fromagers in age, should be told where to go or how to live. Ms. Thomas has received numerous honors 2010, Cowgirl Creamery has earned the re- Villages can help their members take respon- and recognitions throughout her professional spect of international cheese experts in addi- sibility for their own aging and make choices career. She was named a Person to Watch by tion to their robust reputations in the regional resulting in vibrant, purposeful lives lived on SJ Magazine and was a member of NJBiz’s and national artisan cheese marketplace. their own terms, in their own homes and com- inaugural class of Best 50 Women in Busi- From producers to consumers, Cowgirl munities. With this message the village move- ness. In addition to her professional accomplish- Creamery occupies an unparalleled space in ment is changing how elders experience aging ments, Ms. Thomas is proud to lend her its influence on artisan cheesemaking world- and how our society perceives aging. Every name, time and talents to a variety of organi- wide. Mr. Speaker, on the occasion of their American benefits from these changes. 20th Anniversary it is fitting to honor and thank zations throughout the area and is the Vice Peggy, Sue, and Cowgirl Creamery for their On February 13th in Boston, Dr. Atul Chair of New Jersey Public Media, the Chair impressive success and generosity, and to Gawande, whose celebrated 2014 book Being of the Samaritan Healthcare and Hospice’s wish them success in the decades to come. Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End Board of Trustees, and Vice Chair of the New f continues to sustain a lively national conversa- Jersey Governor’s Women’s Conference. She tion about living well and ending well in old is also a member of many great organizations, CONGRATULATING BEACON HILL age, will speak at a public forum to salute and such as the Salvation Army Kroc Community VILLAGES ON THEIR 15TH ANNI- conclude Beacon Hill Village’s fifteenth-year Center Capital Campaign and the New Jersey VERSARY celebrations. Being Mortal has generous Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. It is all altogether fitting that we congratulate things to say about how Beacon Hill Village Liz Thomas on receiving the Samaritan HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH and villages inspired by it provide a valuable OF MASSACHUSETTS Healthcare and Hospice Circle of Excellence model for such living and ending well. Dr. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Award and thank her for her contributions to Gawande’s remarks will be simulcast nation- Monday, February 13, 2017 the State of New Jersey and the many organi- ally to more than 150 villages where more zations that she devotes so much of her time Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to than 5000 will participate remotely in the cele- and talent. Ms. Thomas continues to give back commemorate the 15th Anniversary of Beacon bration. to her community both personally and profes- Hill Village in Boston. It’s an anniversary with sionally and I wish her continued success in significance for the whole Nation and they are One of the great issues worldwide today is all her endeavors. to be congratulated on reaching this special how to support and care for aging populations. milestone. By 2030, twenty percent of our nation’s popu- f Mr. Speaker, Beacon Hill Village was cre- lation will be over 65, an estimated 83 million IN RECOGNITION OF THE SHORT ated by, and for, neighbors determined, as people. The numbers are even larger in many HILL HISTORICAL SOCIETY they aged, to continue to thrive and grow in countries around the world. The Village con- the neighborhood they loved. There was no cept and Dr. Gawande’s profound under- HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK ready model. A core goal of Beacon Hill Vil- standing of the importance of community and OF VIRGINIA lage members was keeping independent. choice offer valuable insights and solutions for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES There isn’t much choice about growing old, this challenging phenomenon. but there are choices about where and how to Monday, February 13, 2017 do so. A little help with the ordinary business Mr. Speaker, in recognition of the positive Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I am hon- of living is always welcome, yet Beacon Hill impact that the village movement has had on ored to recognize my constituents of the Short Village’s philosophy was from the start all the experience of aging, I ask that my col- Hill Historical Society, formerly the Hillsboro about choice: its members are quite capable leagues join me in saluting Beacon Hill Village Community Association (HCA), for their pres- of figuring out what they need and when. and villages throughout the nation by desig- ervation and restoration efforts in one of the But the revolution in aging our nation is ex- nating Monday, February 13, 2017 as National oldest, historic cities in Virginia’s 10th Dis- periencing also presented an extraordinary op- Villages Day. trict—Hillsboro, Virginia.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K13FE8.002 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS E180 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 13, 2017 Over 40 years ago, the Old Stone School in Mr. Speaker, it is appropriate that this rec- been active in her community. She is a proud Hillsboro was saved from being demolished by ognition come during Black History Month, for member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. the HCA, a non-profit comprised of area resi- the Richmond Free Press does not only and for the past seven years she has posi- dents and alumni. Since 1976, the HCA has chronical history, it has made history for the tively impacted the lives of children in the made it their mission to preserve and restore last 25 years. community through her work as a character the Old Stone School and to identify and re- f school operations manager. From 2009 to store other historic landmarks in the Hillsboro 2015, she has worked tirelessly on behalf of area. More recently, the organization began to INTRODUCTION OF THE FEDERAL the students at James M. Singleton Charter operate under the name Friends of the Old EMPLOYEES PAID PARENTAL School and since July 2015, hmerved as the Stone School, as they placed an even strong- LEAVE ACT Operations Manager at William J. Fischer er focus on the landmark building. In 2006, the School. Ms. Glapion is a graduate of town government took over full management HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY McDonogh No. 35 Senior High School and the of the building from the HCA. OF NEW YORK University of Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a Now with the school in good hands, the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication. HCA, under the new name, the Short Hill His- She completed post graduate work in lan- Monday, February 13, 2017 torical Society, is planning to expand their res- guage studies at the Universidad toration efforts immensely. The group contrib- Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Iberoamericana, in Mexico City, Mexico. Ms. uted an estimated $15,000 worth of furniture Mr. Speaker, today, I am proud to reintroduce Glapion began her professional career as an and equipment to the school and also pro- the Federal Employees Paid Parental Leave Administrative Assistant in the office of the vided over $19,000 for management and oper- Act, bipartisan legislation to grant six weeks of late City Councilwoman Dorothy Mae ations. paid parental leave to hardworking federal em- DeLavallade Taylor and as Operations and Fi- This year, the Short Hill Historical Society ployees. nance Manager for the Mary L. Landrieu for has planned a plethora of events and concerts In the Presidential campaign, both can- Governor Campaign. to raise money and also garner support for didates voiced strong support for a workplace Ms. Glapion has served as an Operations new restoration projects. It is strong, commu- that makes sense for hardworking parents. Manager in the Corporate Real Estate/Facili- nity-focused groups, like the Short Hill Histor- This bipartisan legislation is a great place to ties Management Department at Whitney Na- ical Society, that will help Western Loudoun start. tional Bank, and from 2001 to 2005, she was County retain its rich history, and I look for- The federal government is our nation’s larg- part of a research team at Tulane University ward to their future projects and endeavors. est employer, and should be setting the trend School of Medicine as the Administrator of the Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me for commonsense, family-friendly policies. Hematology/Oncology Section. in congratulating the Short Hill Historical Soci- Paid parental leave would give a boost to the In closing Mr. Speaker, the hard work and ety for their years of dedication and hard work. almost two million people who work for the dedication of Ms. Donna Marie Glapion gives I wish them all of the best in their future en- federal government across the country, and us hope and promise for the future of our city deavors. would help our government recruit and retain and I wish to congratulate Ms. Glapion on her coronation as Queen Zulu and wish her a suc- f a talented workforce. The growing costs of caring for a new child, cessful reign in 2017. IN RECOGNITION OF RICHMOND the expensive diapers, bottles, baby carriers, f FREE PRESS they all add up very quickly. The USDA found IN HONOR OF JOHN S. SEDLAK that in the first two years a new child can cost HON. A. DONALD McEACHIN families an average of nearly $13,000. Paid leave makes sure that families can HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK OF VIRGINIA OF VIRGINIA start out on the right foot, not forcing them into IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES debt, or making devastating choices between Monday, February 13, 2017 caring for a child and the paycheck they need. Monday, February 13, 2017 Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rec- I am proud that versions of this legislation Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ac- ognize the Richmond Free Press, an inde- have passed the House twice before, and knowledge my constituent, Mr. John S. pendent, black-owned, weekly newspaper, that urge my colleagues to support this common- Sedlak, who will be departing from his position recently celebrated their 25th anniversary. The sense proposal. as Technical Advisor in the Office of Commer- paper was founded by Raymond H. Boone, a f cial Vessel Compliance this month after a 20- former Howard University associate professor year career of distinguished public service. Mr. and reporter who tirelessly served as editor HONORING MS. DONNA MARIE Sedlak has made tremendous contributions to and publisher until his death in June 2014. GLAPION, QUEEN ZULU 2017 his community and country as both an active The Richmond Free Press serves as a duty serviceman in the U.S. Coast Guard and voice for all people and since its inception has HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND as a civilian employee. altered the media landscape of Richmond, the OF LOUISIANA Mr. Sedlak graduated from the U.S. Coast former Capital of the Confederacy. Their mis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Guard Academy in 1974, beginning a long ca- sion is to, ‘‘provide solid, fair-minded news reer in active duty service that included as- Monday, February 13, 2017 stories and informed opinion to empower its signments to a Coast Guard Cutter, multiple readers to motivate them to take enlightened Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Marine Safety Offices, and a Staff Engineer action on important issues that touch their to recognize the achievements of Ms. Donna position at the Coast Guard Headquarters. lives.’’ Marie Glapion, a native of my hometown of After serving as Staff Engineer, Mr. Sedlak Positively impacting the community through New Orleans, Louisiana. I especially wish to earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering at news stories and editorials, the Richmond congratulate her on becoming the Queen of the Naval Post Graduate School of Monterey, Free Press is instrumental in providing honest the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club for 2017. California and served his final tour of active coverage that has contributed to a guber- It is my distinct privilege to recognize her for duty as the Electrical Branch Chief handling natorial pardon on behalf of a man wrongly this accomplishment. operations at the Coast Guard Marine Safety convicted of a murder charge; and rewriting Ms. Glapion has been a member of the Zulu Center. city code that purged unfair gender references Social Aid & Pleasure Club for 15 years. Over Following his departure from active duty leading to the resignation of a Richmond judge the years she has shared her creative talents, service, Mr. Sedlak assumed his current posi- who posted racist comments on the internet. having decorated numerous events for Zulu tion as Technical Advisor in the Office of Com- Through the leadership of Mrs. Jean Patter- Members, Characters and the organization. mercial Vessel Compliance in 2002. As one of son Boone, advertising director and wife of the She has served as the First Lady of the only three Technical Advisors in CVC and an late founder Raymond Boone, the Richmond Mighty Mayor’s Krewe, participated for many internationally recognized expert in his field, Free Press is an award-winning publication years with Zulu’s Toys for Tots program, and Mr. Sedlak developed national policy in a that has been recognized by the Virginia has served as Co-Modiste to the Zulu Maids number of passenger ships and offshore ves- Press Association, the National Newspaper from 2012–2014. sel areas. While developing these policies, Mr. Publishers Associations, the NAACP and In addition to her work with Zulu, Ms. Sedlak routinely collaborated with other Fed- countless other organizations. Glapion is dedicated to her family and has eral Agencies and represented the Coast

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A13FE8.014 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E181 Guard in international meetings and con- HONORING MR. ADONIS CHARLES contributed to the diversity and advancement ferences. EXPOSE, KING ZULU 2017 of our entire nation. As co-chair of the Congressional Macedonia Mr. Sedlak has been an integral member of HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND and Macedonian-Americans Caucus and Rep- the U.S. Coast Guard throughout his career, resentative for Michigan’s 11th district, the OF LOUISIANA and his contributions in both active duty serv- Macedonian people in Southeast Michigan are IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ice and as a civilian employee are greatly ap- a vibrant and esteemed part of our commu- preciated by all members of the district and Monday, February 13, 2017 nity. community. Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today A sovereign and strong Macedonia and At this moment, Mr. Speaker, I ask that my to recognize the achievements of Mr. Adonis Macedonian people serves to benefit our mu- tual interests and we must support, not under- colleagues join me in extending our sincerest Charles Expose, a native of my hometown of mine, our important ally. thanks to Mr. Sedlak for his service to our na- New Orleans, Louisiana. I especially wish to f tion and all the work he has done for the CVC. congratulate him on becoming the King of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club for 2017. It is TRIBUTE TO FRAN KAPLAN f my distinct privilege to recognize him for this accomplishment. HON. GWEN MOORE Mr. Expose has been a member of the Zulu HONORING THE LIFE OF ROSELYN OF WISCONSIN organization since 2002 and has actively par- BAKER IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ticipated on every level in various leadership capacities. In 2008, he represented the Zulu Monday, February 13, 2017 HON. JIM COSTA organization as Mayor of Zululand. He has Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to also had the honor of serving as Parliamen- recognize Fran Kaplan who has served as a OF CALIFORNIA tarian of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure mentor, educator, community leader, social IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Club, Inc. for six years. worker, translator, writer, administrator and In addition to his work with Zulu, Mr. Expose self-described ‘‘social justice activist’’ for near- Monday, February 13, 2017 is a dedicated family man and has been active ly five decades. Fran Kaplan turned 70 on in his community. He is a proud member of February 9, 2017 and in her retirement has Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and former volunteered hundreds of hours a year serving honor the life of Roselyn Baker, who passed board member of Young Audiences, Boys & as coordinator of America’s Black Holocaust away January 5, 2017. Roselyn was a won- Girls Clubs of Southeast Louisiana and Heart Museum’s (ABHM) online presence at derful mother, wife and friend, whose pres- N Hands, Inc. He has been a member of the www.abhmuseum.org. She helps curate the ence will be greatly missed. Pines Village Neighborhood Association, May- 2900+ exhibits covering 400 years of African American history, and co-facilitates ABHM’s Roselyn was born in Fresno, California in or’s Office Task Force Committee for Blighted film/dialogue series, helping Americans under- 1926 to Kourken and Varsenig Shabaghlian, Housing and an alumnus of the Committee for a Better New Orleans/Metropolitan Area Com- stand the past in order to heal the present. both survivors of the Armenian Genocide. The Fran was born in Lafayette, Indiana and at mittee along with being involved with Forever family initially lived in the heart of downtown an early age came to believe that racial/ethnic Our Children, Inc. and the Young Leadership Fresno before relocating to San Francisco hatred and power struggles were the principal Council. when Roselyn was a young child. There her cause of suffering in the U.S. and around the Mr. Expose is a graduate of McDonogh No. parents operated several grocery stores. You world. She had experienced the ways that rac- 35 Senior High School and the University of would frequently find Roselyn by her father’s ism distorts the psyches and lives of both vic- Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a Bachelor of tim and victimizer while growing up Jewish in side at the stores, assisting with deliveries and Arts degree in Mass Communications with a getting to know the customers. a small Indiana town. minor in English. He earned a Master of Arts Dr. Kaplan was able to participate in a field Roselyn attended Girls High School in San degree in Public Administration from Southern work placement as a graduate student at the Francisco, where her love of classical music University A&M College. He began his profes- University of Michigan with New Detroit, a was born and fostered by her teachers. sional career at the Housing Authority of New black led organization that arose to revive the Roselyn graduated high school in 1944 and Orleans (HANO) where he served as a Stra- city after the uprisings in 1971. Fran is a fluent enrolled in San Francisco City College. tegic Planning Analyst and was later promoted Spanish-speaker and is Jewish and was Roselyn began working in the ladies glove de- to Director of Communications for the agency. tasked to conduct anti-racism training and or- partment for Roos Brothers and Ransahoff’s Currently, he is employed by the Regional ganizing for whites and other non-blacks. Department Stores in downtown San Fran- Transit Authority (RTA) in the Office of Pro- Since that internship, she continued to find curement and Contracts. The commitment that cisco. many opportunities to apply what she learned Mr. Expose shows to his family and commu- there. The focus of her life’s work has been Roselyn met the love of her life George F. nity is an example to all of us. the rights of women, children, minorities and Baker, a veteran who was attending the Col- In closing Mr. Speaker, the hard work and the poor, and ensuring access to community lege of Physicians & Surgeons Dental School dedication of Mr. Adonis Charles Expose to resources for marginalized groups. Dr. Kaplan on the GI Bill. George and Roselyn were mar- improving the community gives us hope and has founded and administered a number of ried in 1947 at St. John’s Armenian Apostolic promise for the future of our city and I con- community organizations, among them a wom- Church in San Francisco. The couple moved gratulate him on his coronation as King Zulu en’s health center, a farm worker self-help or- to Fresno, where George would open a dental and wish him a successful reign in 2017. ganization, and a training center for Spanish- practice in the Tower District. Roselyn served f speaking early childhood educators. Fran is also a published writer and the producer of as the office manager and dental assistant in STANDING FOR A STRONG AND her husband’s practice. Roselyn was a de- award-winning short and feature films. Her co- SOVEREIGN MACEDONIA authored screenplay, Fruit of the Tree, about voted mother, frequently serving as a volun- the life of lynching survivor James Cameron, teer teacher’s aide. Roselyn enjoyed reading HON. DAVID A. TROTT founder of the ABHM, has won awards in na- books and keeping up with current events. OF MICHIGAN tional and regional competitions. The inter- She was an avid San Francisco Giants fan, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES national trainer-consultant for a global par- rejoicing when the team finally won the World enting education program, Fran authored and Monday, February 13, 2017 Series in 2010. co-produced its Spanish-language videos, Roselyn is survived by her two devoted chil- Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to un- books, and games. With Dr. Robert Smith, Dr. dren, Dr. Timothy G. Baker and Bethany R. derscore my support of a strong and sov- Kaplan curated and edited Lynching: An ereign Macedonia. Baker, in addition to family and close friends. American Folkway, a digital transmedia anthol- The nation of Macedonia has been a critical Timothy practices dentistry in the same build- ogy distributed by Biblioboard, Inc. to libraries partner in advancing U.S. national security ef- across the country. ing in the Tower District as his father. forts around the world. Furthermore, the Mac- Fran has been recognized by various orga- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join edonian diaspora in the United States has nizations in Milwaukee and Wisconsin for pro- me in memorializing the life of Roselyn Baker. been a critical part of our community and has moting racial justice and providing leadership

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:43 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A13FE8.018 E13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with REMARKS E182 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 13, 2017 in children’s and human rights, but perhaps to raise the minimum wage, supported edu- tions of African Americans in New York’s 13th her finest achievement is being able to do all cation and training for the hearing impaired, Congressional District. that while taking part in the growth and devel- bolstered vocational training and endeavored opment of several wonderful young people as to provide continued aid to elementary and f a mother, foster parent, and ‘‘bubbe’’ (grand- secondary schools and public libraries. ma). His presence as an African-American in the PERSONAL EXPLANATION Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Dr. U.S. House of Representatives was not just Fran Kaplan on her 70th birthday. She has left poignant for symbolisms’ sake. In 1951, Con- HON. LYNN JENKINS a legacy of advocacy and compassion. She is gressman Powell rose to become the Chair- OF KANSAS man of the House Committee on Education a true trailblazer and my friend for nearly 40 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES years. And now, Fran has returned to direct and Labor. For his efforts, President Lyndon anti-racism organizing and education, her first B. Johnson in 1966 wrote that Congressman Monday, February 13, 2017 true calling, at ABHM and has finally come Powell’s record, ‘‘represents the successful re- Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I home. The citizens of the Fourth Congres- porting of 49 pieces of bed-rock legislation. was absent from Roll Call votes 86 and 87 on sional District, the State of Wisconsin and the And the passage of every one of these bills the evening of February 13, 2017. I would nation have benefited tremendously from her attests to your ability to get things done.’’ have voted in favor of H.R. 244 which encour- dedicated service. I am honored for these rea- President Johnson continued ‘‘Even now, ages the hiring and contributes to the well- sons to pay tribute to Dr. Fran Kaplan. these laws which you so effectively guided being of our veterans, as well as provide com- f through the House are finding abundant re- munity and charitable services supporting the ward in the lives of our people.’’ Most striking veteran community. Lastly, I would have voted RECOGNIZING BLACK HISTORY was his affirmation that ‘‘only with progressive in favor of H.R. 974 which would boost vet- MONTH leadership could so much have been accom- eran employment as the VA would be directed plished by one committee in so short a time. to give preference to organizations that em- HON. ADRIANO ESPAILLAT I speak for millions of Americans who benefit ploy a higher percentage of full-time employ- OF NEW YORK from these laws when I say that I am truly ees when awarding contracts. Had I been IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES grateful.’’ present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call Congressman Powell’s example and work to No. 86 and YEA on Roll Call No. 87. Monday, February 13, 2017 build Harlem (formerly New York 22nd district) Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to and provide opportunities for the African f recognize Black History Month, also known as American community remain enshrined today. African American History Month during this Most well-known is Adam Clayton Powell Jr. month of February. Boulevard running through Harlem and the SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS This is an opportunity to celebrate the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, countless contributions that African Americans in Harlem. While these share his name, his agreed to by the Senate of February 4, have made to our great nation throughout its contributions reached beyond Harlem. Con- 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- history. First recognized in 1926 by Dr. Carter gressman Powell successfully coordinated the tem for a computerized schedule of all G. Woodson, Black History Month allows us to merger of Freedman’s Hospital locally in meetings and hearings of Senate com- reflect on the collective strength that diversity Washington, D.C. with Howard University. mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- continues to bring to our great nation today Howard University has the largest concentra- tees, and committees of conference. and the many days to come. tion of black faculty and student scholars in This title requires all such committees New York’s thirteenth congressional district the country and its College of Medicine stands to notify the Office of the Senate Daily has a rich history that celebrates the contribu- today as a proud institution whose legacy con- Digest—designated by the Rules Com- tions of African Americans to New York City, tributing to African American society will con- mittee—of the time, place and purpose and the legacy of African American history in tinue to stand the test of time. of the meetings, when scheduled and the United States. The Apollo Theater, opened To my new colleagues, the Honorable any cancellations or changes in the in 1914, introduced the world to the tran- Charles B. Rangel is no stranger to any of meetings as they occur. scendent voice and talent of Ella Fitzgerald, you. He has represented Harlem for almost 50 As an additional procedure along James Brown, and Lauryn Hill. years beginning in the New York State Legis- with the computerization of this infor- The Audubon Ballroom where the late Mal- lature and then in the U.S. House of Rep- mation, the Office of the Senate Daily colm X (Malcolm el-Hajj Malik el-Shabazz) resentatives. In this chamber, Congressman Digest will prepare this information for was assassinated now stands in memoriam to Rangel was a founding member of the Con- printing in the Extensions of Remarks his legacy and is also a venue for community gressional Black Caucus. For over 40 years, section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD organizing. this esteemed organization has served to on Monday and Wednesday of each Even after his passing, in his name the Mal- ‘‘promote the public welfare through legislation week. colm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and designed to meet the needs of millions of ne- Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Feb- Educational Center has become a landmark glected citizens.’’ Where Congressman Powell ruary 14, 2017 may be found in the for my constituents and visitors alike seeking rose to chair the House Committee on Edu- Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. reflection and enrichment. cation and Labor, Congressman Rangel in his Known to locals and across the country, own right rose among his peers to chair the Harlem’s famous Sylvia’s Restaurant founded House Committee on Ways and Means; where MEETINGS SCHEDULED by Sylvia Woods—the Queen of Soulfood—for his chairmanship represents the ‘‘most power- 55 years stands proudly as a window to the ful gavel ever held by an African American in FEBRUARY 15 rich culinary history of African Americans Congress.’’ 10 a.m. throughout the country. These institutions are Congressman Rangel’s place in African Committee on Armed Services cultural landmarks that help tell the story of American history transcends Harlem and New Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities the African American experience that runs York City. In 1965 Congressman Rangel To receive a closed briefing on Anti-Ac- throughout communities across the land. joined Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the histor- cess Area Denial challenges in Europe. During this month of reflection, as a rep- ical march from Selma, AL to Montgomery, AL SVC–217 resentative of New York’s 13th district, it is in- to advance equal civil rights for African Ameri- Committee on Environment and Public cumbent on me to highlight and celebrate the cans. The poignancy of this grand action over Works history of my predecessors. That history be- those five days guided a career advocating for To hold an oversight hearing to examine gins with the Honorable Congressman Adam nondiscrimination, developing urban neighbor- modernization of the Endangered Spe- Clayton Powell, Jr. Congressman Powell was hoods and protecting veterans like himself cies Act. SD–406 the first African-American to represent any dis- from disfranchisement. Committee on Foreign Relations trict of New York in the U.S. Congress. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have been To hold hearings to examine ending mod- First elected in 1944, Congressman Powell given the opportunity share with my col- ern slavery, focusing on building on served the Harlem community for more than leagues the virtues of African American Herit- success. two decades during which he worked tirelessly age Month and time to celebrate the contribu- SD–419

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HIGHLIGHTS Senate confirmed the nomination of Steven T. Mnuchin, of California, to be Secretary of the Treasury. Senate confirmed the nomination of David J. Shulkin, of Pennsylvania, to be Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Senate Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- Chamber Action tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1123 Routine Proceedings, pages S1095–S1133 Ross Nomination–Cloture: Senate began consider- Measures Introduced: Sixteen bills and one resolu- ation of the nomination of Wilbur L. Ross, Jr., of tion were introduced, as follows: S. 351–366, and S. Florida, to be Secretary of Commerce. Page S1123 Res. 60. Pages S1129–30 A motion was entered to close further debate on Mulvaney Nomination—Cloture: Senate began the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- consideration of the nomination of Mick Mulvaney, sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- of South Carolina, to be Director of the Office of ate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition of the nomination of Scott Pruitt, of Oklahoma, to be Management and Budget. Page S1123 Administrator of the Environmental Protection A motion was entered to close further debate on Agency. Page S1123 the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- ate took the following action: ate, a vote on cloture will occur on Wednesday, Feb- Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- ruary 15, 2017. Page S1123 tive Session. Page S1123 Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- ate took the following action: tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1123 Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- Zinke Nomination—Cloture: Senate began consid- tive Session. Page S1123 Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- eration of the nomination of Ryan Zinke, of Mon- tana, to be Secretary of the Interior. Page S1123 tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1123 A motion was entered to close further debate on Pruitt Nomination—Cloture: Senate began consid- the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- eration of the nomination of Scott Pruitt, of Okla- sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- homa, to be Administrator of the Environmental ate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition of Protection Agency. Page S1123 the nomination of Wilbur L. Ross, Jr., of Florida, to A motion was entered to close further debate on be Secretary of Commerce. Page S1123 the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- ate took the following action: ate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition of Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- the nomination of Mick Mulvaney, of South Caro- tive Session. Page S1123 lina, to be Director of the Office of Management and Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- Budget. Page S1123 tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1123 Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- Carson Nomination—Cloture: Senate began con- ate took the following action: sideration of the nomination of Benjamin S. Carson, Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- Sr., of Florida, to be Secretary of Housing and Urban tive Session. Page S1123 Development. Page S1124 D147

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A motion was entered to close further debate on Additional Cosponsors: Page S1130 the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- Pages S1130–31 ate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition of the nomination of Ryan Zinke, of Montana, to be Additional Statements: Pages S1128–29 Secretary of the Interior. Page S1124 Record Votes: Two record votes were taken today. Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- (Total—64) Pages S1121–23 ate took the following action: Adjournment: Senate convened at 12 noon and ad- Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- journed at 8:20 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, tive Session. Page S1124 February 14, 2017. (For Senate’s program, see the re- Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- marks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1124 page S1131.) Perry Nomination—Cloture: Senate began consid- eration of the nomination of James Richard Perry, of Texas, to be Secretary of Energy. Page S1124 Committee Meetings A motion was entered to close further debate on the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- (Committees not listed did not meet) sions of rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Sen- ate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition of BUSINESS MEETING the nomination of Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., of Flor- Committee on Armed Services: Committee announced ida, to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Develop- the following subcommittee assignments: ment. Page S1124 Subcommittee on Airland: Senators Cotton (Chair), Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- Inhofe, Wicker, Tillis, Sullivan, Cruz, Sasse, King, ate took the following action: McCaskill, Blumenthal, Donnelly, Warren, and Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- Peters. tive Session. Page S1124 Subcommittee on Cybersecurity: Senators Rounds Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- (Chair), Fischer, Perdue, Graham, Sasse, Nelson, tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S1124 McCaskill, Gillibrand, and Blumenthal. McMahon Nomination—Agreement: A unani- Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities: mous-consent agreement was reached providing that Senators Ernst (Chair), Wicker, Fischer, Perdue, at approximately 10 a.m., on Tuesday, February 14, Cruz, Heinrich, Nelson, Shaheen, and Peters. 2017, Senate begin consideration of the nomination Subcommittee on Personnel: Senators Tillis (Chair), of Linda E. McMahon, of Connecticut, to be Admin- Ernst, Graham, Sasse, Gillibrand, McCaskill, and istrator of the Small Business Administration, under Warren. the previous order. Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support: Senators Inhofe (Chair), Rounds, Ernst, Perdue, Nominations Confirmed: Senate confirmed the fol- Strange, Kaine, Shaheen, and Hirono. lowing nominations: Subcommittee on SeaPower: Senators Wicker (Chair), By 53 yeas to 47 nays (Vote No. EX. 63), Steven Cotton, Rounds, Tillis, Sullivan, Strange, Hirono, T. Mnuchin, of California, to be Secretary of the Shaheen, Blumenthal, Kaine, and King. Treasury. Pages S1121, S1133 Subcommittee on Strategic Forces: Senators Fischer By a unanimous vote of 100 yeas (Vote No. EX. (Chair), Inhofe, Cotton, Sullivan, Cruz, Graham, 64), David J. Shulkin, of Pennsylvania, to be Sec- Donnelly, Heinrich, Warren, and Peters. retary of Veterans Affairs. Pages S1122–23, S1133 Senators McCain and Reed are ex officio members of Messages from the House: Page S1129 each subcommittee. h House of Representatives Res. 71; and H. Res. 1141–115, 117–122 were in- Chamber Action troduced. Pages H1124–25 Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 28 pub- Additional Cosponsors: Pages H1126–27 lic bills, H.R. 1011–1028; and 9 resolutions, H.J.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:44 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D13FE7.REC D13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with DIGEST February 13, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D149 Report Filed: A report was filed today as follows: tary with annual presidential awards to private sector H. Res. 116, providing for consideration of the employers recognizing such efforts, by a 2⁄3 yea-and- joint resolution (H.J. Res. 66) disapproving the rule nay vote of 409 yeas to 1 nay, Roll No. 86; and submitted by the Department of Labor relating to Pages H1109–11 savings arrangements established by States for non- Agreed to amend the title so as to read: ‘‘To en- governmental employees, and providing for consider- courage effective, voluntary investments to recruit, ation of the joint resolution (H.J. Res. 67) dis- employ, and retain men and women who have served approving the rule submitted by the Department of in the United States military with annual Federal Labor relating to savings arrangements established awards to employers recognizing such efforts, and for by qualified State political subdivisions for non-gov- other purposes.’’. Page H1111 ernmental employees (H. Rept. 115–11). Page H1124 Boosting Rates of American Veteran Employment Act: Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he H.R. 974, to amend title 38, United States Code, to appointed Representative Meadows to act as Speaker authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, in award- pro tempore for today. Page H1101 ing a contract for the procurement of goods or serv- Recess: The House recessed at 12:10 p.m. and re- ices, to give a preference to offerors that employ vet- convened at 2 p.m. Page H1103 erans, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 407 yeas with Member Resignation: Read a letter from Rep- none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 87. Pages H1111–12 resentative Price, wherein he resigned as Representa- United States-China Economic and Security Re- tive for the Sixth Congressional District of Georgia, view Commission—Appointment: The Chair an- effective at 9 a.m. on February 10, 2017. nounced the Speaker’s appointment of the following Pages H1103–04 individuals on the part of the House to the United Whole Number of the House: The Chair an- States-China Economic and Security Review Com- nounced to the House that, in light of the resigna- mission for a term expiring on December 31, 2018: tion of the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Price, the Mr. Larry Wortzel, of Williamsburg, Virginia and whole number of the House is 432. Page H1104 Mr. Robert Glenn Hubbard of New York, New Recess: The House recessed at 2:06 p.m. and recon- York. Page H1112 vened at 4:29 p.m. Page H1104 Creating Options for Veterans’ Expedited Recov- Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules ery Commission—Appointment: The Chair an- and pass the following measures: nounced the Speaker’s appointment of the following individuals on the part of the House to the Creating Designating the Department of Veterans Affairs health Options for Veterans’ Expedited Recovery Commis- care center in Center Township, Butler County, Pennsyl- sion: Captain John M. Rose, U.S. Navy, Retired, of vania, as the ‘‘Abie Abraham VA Clinic’’: H.R. 609, Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Lieutenant Colonel Jamil to designate the Department of Veterans Affairs S. Khan, U.S. Marine Corps, Retired, of Janesville, health care center in Center Township, Butler Coun- Wisconsin. Page H1112 ty, Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Abie Abraham VA Clinic’’; Pages H1104–06 National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service—Appointment: The Chair an- Working to Integrate Networks Guaranteeing Member Ac- nounced the Speaker’s appointment of the following cess Now Act: H.R. 512, amended, to title 38, United individual on the part of the House to the National States Code, to permit veterans to grant access to Commission on Military, National and Public Serv- their records in the databases of the Veterans Bene- ice: Mr. Thomas Kilgannon of Centreville, Virginia. fits Administration to certain designated congres- Pages H1112–13 sional employees; Pages H1106–08 Agreed to amend the title so as to read: ‘‘To Medal of Valor Review Board—Appointment: amend title 38, United States Code, to permit vet- The Chair announced the Speaker’s appointment of erans to grant access to their records in the databases the following individuals on the part of the House of the Veterans Benefits Administration to certain to the Medal of Valor Review Board for a term of designated congressional employees, and for other four years: Mr. Brandon Clabes of Choctaw, Okla- purposes.’’. Page H1108 homa and Mr. Brian Murphy of Milwaukee, Wis- Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing Amer- consin. Page H1113 ican Military Veterans Act of 2017: H.R. 244, amend- American Folklife Center in the Library of Con- ed, to encourage effective, voluntary private sector gress—Appointment: The Chair announced the investments to recruit, employ, and retain men and Speaker’s appointment of the following individual on women who have served in the United States mili- the part of the House to the Board of Trustees of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:44 Feb 14, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D13FE7.REC D13FEPT1 emcdonald on DSK9F6TC42PROD with DIGEST D150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST February 13, 2017 the American Folklife Center in the Library of Con- points of order against provisions in each joint reso- gress for a term of six years: Ms. Patricia A. Atkin- lution. The rule provides each joint resolution one son of Carson City, Nevada. Page H1113 motion to recommit. Testimony was heard from Recess: The House recessed at 5:23 p.m. and recon- Representatives Walberg and Francis Rooney of Flor- vened at 6:30 p.m. Page H1113 ida. Senate Message: Message received from the Senate by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the Joint Meetings House today appears on page H1104. No joint committee meetings were held. Quorum Calls—Votes: Two yea-and-nay votes de- f veloped during the proceedings of today and appear COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR TUESDAY, on pages H1113–14, and H1114–15. There were no FEBRUARY 14, 2017 quorum calls. (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Adjournment: The House met at 12 noon and ad- journed at 8:31 p.m. Senate Committee on Armed Services: to receive a closed briefing Committee Meetings on long-term defense challenges and strategies, 9:30 a.m., SVC–217. MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE Subcommittee on Personnel, to hold hearings to exam- Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Full ine Department of Defense single servicemember and Committee held a markup on H.J. Res. 27, dis- military family readiness programs, 2:30 p.m., SR–222. approving the action of the District of Columbia Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: to Council in approving the Death with Dignity Act of hold hearings to examine the Semiannual Monetary Policy 2016. H.J. Res. 27 was ordered reported, without Report to the Congress, 10 a.m., SD–106. Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to amendment. examine certain intelligence matters, 2:30 p.m., SH–219. HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION House DISAPPROVING THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATING Committee on Armed Services, Full Committee, hearing TO SAVINGS ARRANGEMENTS entitled ‘‘The Evolving Threat of Terrorism and Effective ESTABLISHED BY STATES FOR NON- Counterterrorism Strategies’’, 10 a.m., 2118 Rayburn. GOVERNMENTAL EMPLOYEES; HOUSE Committee on Education and the Workforce, Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions, hearing en- JOINT RESOLUTION DISAPPROVING THE titled ‘‘Restoring Balance and Fairness to the National RULE SUBMITTED BY THE DEPARTMENT Labor Relations Board’’, 10 a.m., 2175 Rayburn. OF LABOR RELATING TO SAVINGS Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on ARRANGEMENTS ESTABLISHED BY Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection, hearing en- QUALIFIED STATE POLITICAL titled ‘‘Self-Driving Cars: Road to Deployment’’, 10:15 SUBDIVISIONS FOR NON-GOVERNMENTAL a.m., 2123 Rayburn. EMPLOYEES Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Ter- rorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade, hearing entitled Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on ‘‘Defeating Terrorism in Syria: A New Way Forward’’, 2 H.J. Res. 66, disapproving the rule submitted by p.m., 2172 Rayburn. the Department of Labor relating to savings arrange- Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Emer- ments established by States for non-governmental gency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, employees; and H.J. Res. 67, disapproving the rule hearing entitled ‘‘The Future of FEMA: Stakeholder Rec- submitted by the Department of Labor relating to ommendations for the Next Administrator’’, 10 a.m., savings arrangements established by qualified State HVC–210. political subdivisions for non-governmental employ- Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Courts, In- ees. The committee granted, by record vote of 8–3, tellectual Property, and the Internet, hearing entitled closed rules for H.J. Res. 66 and H.J. Res. 67. The ‘‘Judicial Transparency and Ethics’’, 10 a.m., 2141 Ray- rule provides one hour of debate on each joint reso- burn. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Full Com- lution equally divided and controlled by the chair mittee, markup on H.R. 195, the ‘‘Federal Register and ranking minority member of the Committee on Printing Savings Act of 2017’’; H.R. 624, the ‘‘Social Se- Education and the Workforce. The rule waives all curity Fraud Prevention Act of 2017’’; the ‘‘Searching for points of order against consideration of each joint and Cutting Regulations that are Unnecessarily Burden- resolution. The rule provides that each joint resolu- some Act of 2017’’; the ‘‘Regulatory Integrity Act of tion shall be considered as read. The rule waives all 2017’’; the ‘‘OIRA Insight, Reform, and Accountability

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Act’’; the ‘‘DC Courts and Public Defender Service Vol- Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Subcommittee untary Separation Incentive Payments Act’’; and H.R. on Research and Technology, hearing entitled ‘‘Strength- 653, the ‘‘Federal Intern Protection Act of 2017’’, 10 ening U.S. Cybersecurity Capabilities’’, 10 a.m., 2318 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. Rayburn. Committee on Rules, Full Committee, hearing on H.J. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Subcommittee on Dis- Res. 69, providing for congressional disapproval under ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, hearing entitled chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the final rule ‘‘Exploring National Work Queue’s Impact on Claims of the Department of the Interior relating to ‘‘Non-Sub- Processing’’, 10:30 a.m., 334 Cannon. sistence Take of Wildlife, and Public Participation and Committee on Ways and Means, Full Committee, markup Closure Procedures, on National Wildlife Refuges in on the committee’s Authorization and Oversight Plan for Alaska’’; and H.J. Res. 43, providing for congressional the 115th Congress; Views and Estimates on the Fiscal disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Year 2018 Federal Budget; and ratification of sub- Code, of the final rule submitted by Secretary of Health and Human Services relating to compliance with title X committee assignments and appointments to the Joint requirements by project recipients in selecting subrecipi- Committee on Taxation, 10:15 a.m., 1100 Longworth. ents, 3 p.m., H–313 Capitol.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Tuesday, February 14 10 a.m., Tuesday, February 14

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Tuesday: Senate will begin consideration of Program for Tuesday: Consideration of H.R. 428—Red the nomination of Linda E. McMahon, of Connecticut, to River Gradient Boundary Survey Act (Subject to a Rule). be Administrator of the Small Business Administration, and vote on confirmation of the nomination at approxi- mately 11 a.m.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Costa, Jim, Calif., E176, E178, E181 Moore, Gwen, Wisc., E181 Espaillat, Adriano, N.Y., E182 Norcross, Donald, N.J., E179 Blackburn, Marsha, Tenn., E177 Gottheimer, Josh, N.J., E175 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Blum, Rod, Iowa, E175 Huffman, Jared, Calif., E175, E178 E177 Burgess, Michael C., Tex., E175 Jenkins, Lynn, Kans., E182 Poe, Ted, Tex., E177 Collins, Doug, Ga., E177 Lynch, Stephen F., Mass., E179 Richmond, Cedric L., La., E180, E181 Comstock, Barbara, Va., E175, E176, E177, E178, E179, Maloney, Carolyn B., N.Y., E180 Trott, David A., Mich., E181 E180 McEachin, A. Donald, Va., E180 Valadao, David G., Calif., E176

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