E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 116 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 166 WASHINGTON, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020 No. 205 Senate The Senate was not in session today. Its next meeting will be held on Monday, December 7, 2020, at 3 p.m. House of Representatives FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2020

The House met at 9 a.m. and was PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Families are hungry, restaurants and called to order by the Speaker. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman businesses are closing, millions are un- employed, and each one of them is f from Minnesota (Mr. PHILLIPS) come forward and lead the House in the waiting on us. But common ground has been found, PRAYER Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. PHILLIPS led the Pledge of Alle- my friends. A bipartisan, bicameral The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick giance as follows: framework awaits our action. Time is J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: short, the need is great, and I implore Dear Lord, we give You thanks for I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Repub- that we all come together and get it giving us another day. lic for which it stands, one nation under God, done. At the end of the week, we use this indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. f moment to be reminded of Your pres- f ence, and to tap the resources needed COMMENDING THE CENTRAL by the Members of this people’s House ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER TEXAS FOOD BANK to do their work as well as it can be The SPEAKER. The Chair will enter- (Mr. WILLIAMS asked and was given done in the days remaining in the 116th tain up to five requests for 1-minute permission to address the House for 1 Congress. speeches on each side of the aisle. minute.) May they be led by Your spirit in the f Mr. WILLIAMS. Mr. Speaker, I rise decisions they make. May they possess today to thank the Central Texas Food Your power as they steady themselves WE MUST RISE TO THE OCCASION Bank for being a leader in the fight amid the pressures of persistent prob- (Mr. PHILLIPS asked and was given against hunger and for their commit- lems. permission to address the House for 1 ment to serving our community over May their faith in You deliver them minute.) the last 40 years. from tensions that make fruitful legis- Mr. PHILLIPS. Madam Speaker, the Their generosity and dedication to lative work difficult, and from worries foundation of America’s greatness our Texas neighbors is at the heart of that might wear them out. stems from its remarkable ability—our the American story. Last year alone, In the final days of this Congress, remarkable ability—to meet the mo- they provided 39 million meals to cen- may they do their best to find solu- ment during times of crisis. tral Texas families, including those in tions to pressing issues facing our Na- Whether our foremothers and fore- Burnet, Coryell, Bell, Lampasas, Hays, tion during these stressful times of fathers faced threats from overseas, and Travis Counties in the 25th Dis- coronavirus. economic depressions, natural disas- trict. May all that is done be for Your ters, or attacks on our own soil, they I was grateful for the opportunity greater honor and glory. rose to the occasion. They met the mo- this fall to join them distributing food Amen. ment, and history shined favorably to veterans and their families in the upon their legacies. Austin area, and I look forward to f And now it is our turn. working together in the years to come. The pandemic is an enemy that has Mr. Speaker, I thank all the volun- THE JOURNAL already killed 276,000 of our neighbors teers who are working around the The SPEAKER. Pursuant to clause across the Nation, and by the time it is clock to provide food for families dur- 4(a) of House Resolution 967, the Jour- over, it will have likely claimed more ing a time that has presented unique nal of the last day’s proceedings is ap- lives—American lives—than World War and unforeseen challenges, especially proved. II. as we celebrate this holiday season. By

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.

H6817

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.000 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6818 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 mobilizing our communities to serve another round of grant awards, getting But today I would just like to salute and inspiring younger generations to this $138 billion out on the street be- those veterans of Air America, many of give back where they can, they are fore it is too late for many of these whom are still alive, some in my dis- making us a stronger and a better na- hard-hit businesses. This legislation is trict, and hope that we act quickly to tion. targeted, addresses a dire need across give them the retirement benefits that May God bless all of them, may God the Nation, and requires no additional they should have had many years ago. bless Texas, and may He continue to Federal funds. f bless the greatest country on Earth, Mr. Speaker, I urge the Speaker and her leadership to reconsider this tactic REMEMBERING DR. ROGER the United States of America. MANDLE In God We Trust. and allow this legislation to come to (Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given f the floor for a vote. I am confident it will receive bipartisan support. permission to address the House for 1 COVID–19 AID PACKAGE f minute.) (Mr. KILDEE asked and was given Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, last CONGRATULATING DR. JUDY permission to address the House for 1 week the arts and education commu- WHITE minute.) nities lost a giant when Dr. Roger Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, look, we (Mr. TAKANO asked and was given Mandle, the former president of the all know this pandemic is not over—it permission to address the House for 1 Rhode Island School of Design for more is far from over—and Congress has to minute and to revise and extend his re- than a decade, passed away in Dart- do its job. Families, seniors, small marks.) mouth, Massachusetts, at the age of 79. I was fortunate to work closely with businesses are suffering, and they need Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise President Mandle during my time as Congress to act now before we leave today to congratulate Dr. Judy White on her retirement from the Riverside mayor of Providence. He was a pas- town. sionate advocate for the humanities When we were all home over the County Office of Education. Known as a history maker and and a visionary leader who ensured Thanksgiving holiday, we all saw the stereotype breaker, Dr. White has been that Rhode Island remained home to same thing: the heartbreaking images a distinguished educator for the past 40 the leading arts and design school in of people, people who never have had to years. Most recently, she served as the the world. seek help, standing in lines for food, Riverside County Superintendent of Most of all, he was an extraordinary millions of people out of work. Schools, where she led the county’s 515 human being and talented leader who Small businesses, well, they are clos- schools, ensuring that all 430,000 stu- sought to leave our world in better ing. We are losing small businesses dents in the county received the qual- shape than he found it. every single day, and now Federal un- ity education they deserve. He recognized the influential post he employment benefits are set to expire. Dr. White has dedicated her career to held as a civic leader in the city of Look, families are falling into pov- bettering public education throughout Providence, he understood fully the im- erty as a result of our inaction. the Inland Empire. She encouraged stu- portance that great universities and The people who are hurting are rep- dents to pursue their educational colleges have to the success of cities, resented by Democrats and Repub- dreams, and she secured millions of and he worked to ensure that RISD was licans. The people who are hurting are dollars in funding to bridge the digital an asset for Rhode Island’s capital city. He will be deeply missed by all who in every district across this country. divide in our communities. We worked to get to a solution. In There is no doubt that Dr. White has knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with this House, we passed, twice, legisla- been an incredible asset to the students Roger’s wife, the renowned abstract tion that would provide that relief, of Riverside County, and I am glad to artist Gayle Wells Mandle, and their but, at this moment, we need to come have had the pleasure of working with entire family today. together as Democrats and Repub- her. She sets a high bar in everything licans. she does, and I wish her a happy retire- f The people who are hurting are rep- ment and all the best in her future en- LAKES FREEMAN AND SHAFER resented by Democrats and Repub- deavors. (Mr. BAIRD asked and was given per- licans. The solution has to come in a f mission to address the House for 1 bipartisan form. So let’s set aside our minute and to revise and extend his re- differences. Let’s find common ground. RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOR AIR AMERICA PILOTS marks.) Let’s pass a COVID relief bill now. Mr. BAIRD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise f (Mr. GROTHMAN asked and was on behalf of the communities and the given permission to address the House LET’S EXTEND THE PAYCHECK residents surrounding Lakes Freeman for 1 minute.) PROTECTION PROGRAM and Shafer. Mr. GROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I This summer, these communities (Mr. JACOBS asked and was given think, without question, one of the witnessed the water levels in Lake permission to address the House for 1 parts of our history that has been Freeman reach a dangerously low level. minute.) underreported is that of the great wars The low water levels were brought on Mr. JACOBS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in against communism, one of which was by drought, but were exacerbated by a support of extending the successful and the Vietnam war. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ruling bipartisan Paycheck Protection Pro- One part of the Vietnam war that meant to protect several species of gram by making $138 billion in already hasn’t been discussed enough is that of mussels. appropriated funds available to help Air America. It was a CIA-run oper- However well-intended the ruling, it more businesses that are experiencing ation in which they would take air- is having devastating consequences for dire and desperate need. lines, scrub off the markings related to these communities and the city of This week, it was reported that al- the U.S. Air Force, and then fly over Monticello. Local businesses are strug- most 30 percent of small businesses in Laos maybe to drop off supplies, maybe gling to get by, property values are de- New York have closed for good due to to do rescue missions, both with regard creasing, and the ecosystem of the lake the COVID–19 epidemic, and many to American troops and our Hmong al- is threatened. more will face the same fate without lies. Fish and Wildlife have the power to further aid. I have the honor to introduce, to- resolve this issue, but the agency has $138 billion appropriated to the PPP gether along with Congresswoman been unable to adjust to realtime cir- is just sitting here in Washington, MALONEY, the bipartisan Air America cumstances. D.C., instead of helping our Nation’s Act, which will give those people who I brought this issue to the attention small businesses. risked their lives, and many of them of the Department of the Interior. My For months, we have asked the have died, the same retirement bene- hope is that our government can be re- Speaker to allow a vote on H.R. 8265, fits as other people who fought for the sponsive to the concerns of the people which simply enables the SBA to do military in the Vietnam war. on a problem they have helped create.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.002 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6819 WE MUST PASS BIPARTISAN SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. schedules of controlled substances. For the pur- COVID RELIEF This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Marijuana Op- poses of the Controlled Substances Act, mari- portunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act huana and tetrahydrocannabinols shall each be (Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire of 2020’’ or the ‘‘MORE Act of 2020’’. deemed to be a drug or other substance that asked and was given permission to ad- SEC. 2. FINDINGS. does not meet the requirements for inclusion in dress the House for 1 minute.) The Congress finds as follows: any schedule. A rulemaking under this para- Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. Mr. (1) The communities that have been most graph shall be considered to have taken effect Speaker, I rise to speak of the urgent harmed by cannabis prohibition are benefiting as of the date of enactment of this Act for pur- need to pass bipartisan COVID–19 relief the least from the legal marijuana marketplace. poses of any offense committed, case pending, legislation as Congress works to con- (2) A legacy of racial and ethnic injustices, conviction entered, and, in the case of a juve- nile, any offense committed, case pending, and clude our work this year. compounded by the disproportionate collateral consequences of 80 years of cannabis prohibition adjudication of juvenile delinquency entered be- Families, businesses, and workers in enforcement, now limits participation in the in- fore, on, or after the date of enactment of this New Hampshire are feeling the contin- dustry. Act. ued pain and impact of this pandemic (3) 36 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS TO CON- as cases reach record highs in my State Rico, and Guam have adopted laws allowing TROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT.—The Controlled and hospitals and frontline health legal access to cannabis, and 15 States, the Dis- Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) is amend- workers brace for the expected surge. trict of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of the ed— Northern Mariana Islands have adopted laws (1) in section 102(44) (21 U.S.C. 802(44)), by This week, I was pleased to see striking ‘‘marihuana,’’; Democrats and Republicans in the legalizing cannabis for adult recreational use. (4) A total of 47 States have reformed their (2) in section 401(b) (21 U.S.C. 841(b))— House and the Senate come together to laws pertaining to cannabis despite the Sched- (A) in paragraph (1)— find common ground and release a ule I status of marijuana and its Federal crim- (i) in subparagraph (A)— promising framework that we should inalization. (I) in clause (vi), by inserting ‘‘or’’ after the consider immediately. This legislation (5) Legal cannabis sales totaled $9.5 billion in semicolon; would bolster our public health and 2017 and are projected to reach $23 billion by (II) by striking clause (vii); and (III) by redesignating clause (viii) as clause economic response to COVID–19 to help 2022. (6) According to the American Civil Liberties (vii); us get through the long, cold, dark (ii) in subparagraph (B)— winter ahead. Union (ACLU), enforcing cannabis prohibition laws costs taxpayers approximately $3.6 billion a (I) in clause (vi), by inserting ‘‘or’’ after the Democrats and Republicans won’t get year. semicolon; everything they want, but we need to (7) The continued enforcement of cannabis (II) by striking clause (vii); and come together and put politics aside. prohibition laws results in over 600,000 arrests (III) by redesignating clause (viii) as clause This legislation includes new funding annually, disproportionately impacting people (vii); (iii) in subparagraph (C), in the first sentence, of color who are almost 4 times more likely to be for the Paycheck Protection Program by striking ‘‘subparagraphs (A), (B), and (D)’’ arrested for cannabis possession than their for small businesses, State and local and inserting ‘‘subparagraphs (A) and (B)’’; White counterparts, despite equal rates of use funding for our first responders, ex- (iv) by striking subparagraph (D); across populations. tended unemployment, and critical (v) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as sub- (8) People of color have been historically tar- paragraph (D); and funding to help with the distribution of geted by discriminatory sentencing practices re- (vi) in subparagraph (D)(i), as so redesig- the promising COVID–19 vaccine, as sulting in Black men receiving drug sentences nated, by striking ‘‘subparagraphs (C) and (D)’’ well as $5 billion in funding to combat that are 13.1 percent longer than sentences im- and inserting ‘‘subparagraph (C)’’; posed for White men and Latinos being nearly the opioid epidemic, which, tragically, (B) by striking paragraph (4); and continues to rage. 6.5 times more likely to receive a Federal sen- (C) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), and It is time to come together and get tence for cannabis possession than non-His- (7) as paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), respectively; the job done. panic Whites. (3) in section 402(c)(2)(B) (21 U.S.C. (9) In 2013, simple cannabis possession was the 842(c)(2)(B)), by striking ‘‘, marihuana,’’; f fourth most common cause of deportation for (4) in section 403(d)(1) (21 U.S.C. 843(d)(1)), by any offense and the most common cause of de- striking ‘‘, marihuana,’’; b 0915 portation for drug law violations. (5) in section 418(a) (21 U.S.C. 859(a)), by (10) Fewer than one-fifth of cannabis business striking the last sentence; MARIJUANA OPPORTUNITY REIN- owners identify as minorities and only approxi- (6) in section 419(a) (21 U.S.C. 860(a)), by VESTMENT AND EXPUNGEMENT mately 4 percent are black. striking the last sentence; ACT OF 2019 (11) Applicants for cannabis licenses are lim- (7) in section 422(d) (21 U.S.C. 863(d))— ited by numerous laws, regulations, and exorbi- (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, tant permit applications, licensing fees, and pursuant to House Resolution 1244, I striking ‘‘marijuana,’’; and costs in these States, which can require more (B) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘, such as a call up the bill (H.R. 3884) to decrimi- than $700,000. marihuana cigarette,’’; and nalize and deschedule cannabis, to pro- (12) Historically disproportionate arrest and (8) in section 516(d) (21 U.S.C. 886(d)), by vide for reinvestment in certain per- conviction rates make it particularly difficult striking ‘‘section 401(b)(6)’’ each place the term sons adversely impacted by the War on for people of color to enter the legal cannabis appears and inserting ‘‘section 401(b)(5)’’. Drugs, to provide for expungement of marketplace, as most States bar these individ- (c) OTHER CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— uals from participating. certain cannabis offenses, and for other (1) NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM DRUG CONTROL (13) Federal law severely limits access to loans ACT OF 1986.—The National Forest System Drug purposes, and ask for its immediate and capital for cannabis businesses, dispropor- consideration. Control Act of 1986 (16 U.S.C. 559b et seq.) is tionately impacting minority small business amended— The Clerk read the title of the bill. owners. (A) in section 15002(a) (16 U.S.C. 559b(a)) by The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. (14) Some States and municipalities have striking ‘‘marijuana and other’’; CUELLAR). Pursuant to House Resolu- taken proactive steps to mitigate inequalities in (B) in section 15003(2) (16 U.S.C. 559c(2)) by tion 1244, in lieu of the amendment in the legal cannabis marketplace and ensure striking ‘‘marijuana and other’’; and the nature of a substitute rec- equal participation in the industry. (C) in section 15004(2) (16 U.S.C. 559d(2)) by ommended by the Committee on the SEC. 3. DECRIMINALIZATION OF CANNABIS. striking ‘‘marijuana and other’’. Judiciary printed in the bill, an amend- (a) CANNABIS REMOVED FROM SCHEDULE OF (2) INTERCEPTION OF COMMUNICATIONS.—Sec- CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.— tion 2516 of title 18, United States Code, is ment in the nature of a substitute con- (1) REMOVAL IN STATUTE.—Subsection (c) of amended— sisting of the text of Rules Committee schedule I of section 202(c) of the Controlled (A) in subsection (1)(e), by striking ‘‘mari- Print 116–67, modified by the amend- Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812) is amended— huana,’’; and ment printed in House Report 116–607, (A) by striking ‘‘(10) Marihuana.’’; and (B) in subsection (2) by striking ‘‘mari- is adopted, and the bill, as amended, is (B) by striking ‘‘(17) Tetrahydrocannabinols, huana’’. considered read. except for tetrahydrocannabinols in hemp (as (3) FMCSA PROVISIONS.— The text of the bill, as amended, is as defined in section 297A of the Agricultural Mar- (A) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section follows: keting Act of 1946).’’. 31301(5) of title 49, United States Code, is (2) REMOVAL FROM SCHEDULE.—Not later than amended by striking ‘‘section 31306,’’ and insert- H. R. 3884 180 days after the date of the enactment of this ing ‘‘sections 31306, 31306a, and subsections (b) Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Act, the Attorney General shall finalize a rule- and (c) of section 31310,’’. Representatives of the United States of America making under section 201(a)(2) removing mari- (B) DEFINITION.—Section 31306(a) of title 49, in Congress assembled, huana and tetrahydrocannabinols from the United States Code, is amended—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.004 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6820 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 (i) by striking ‘‘means any substance’’ and in- propriations Act, 1987 (5 U.S.C. 7301 note) is trust fund to be known as the ‘Opportunity serting the following: ‘‘means— amended by adding at the end the following: Trust Fund’ (referred to in this section as the ‘‘(A) any substance’’; and ‘‘(h) MARIJUANA.— ‘Trust Fund’), consisting of such amounts as (ii) by striking the period at the end and in- ‘‘(1) CONTINUED TESTING.—Notwithstanding may be appropriated or credited to such fund as serting ‘‘; and the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and provided in this section or section 9602(b). ‘‘(B) any substance not covered under sub- Expungement Act of 2020 and the amendments ‘‘(b) TRANSFERS TO TRUST FUND.—There are paragraph (A) that was a substance under such made thereby, the Secretary of Health and hereby appropriated to the Trust Fund amounts section as of December 1, 2018, and specified by Human Services may continue to include mari- equivalent to the net revenues received in the the Secretary of Transportation.’’. juana for purposes of drug testing of Federal Treasury from the taxes imposed under chapter (C) DISQUALIFICATIONS.—Section 31310(b) of employees subject to this section, Executive 56. title 49, United States Code, is amended by add- Order 12564, or other applicable Federal laws ‘‘(c) EXPENDITURES.—Amounts in the Trust ing at the end the following: and orders. Fund shall be available, without further appro- ‘‘(3) In this subsection and subsection (c), the ‘‘(2) DEFINITION.—The term ‘marijuana’ has priation, only as follows: term ‘controlled substance’ has the meaning the meaning given to the term ‘marihuana’ in ‘‘(1) 50 percent to the Attorney General to given such term in section 31306(a).’’. section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 carry out section 3052(a) of part OO of the Om- (4) FAA PROVISIONS.—Section 45101 of title 49, 6 U.S.C. 802) on the day before the date of en- nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of United States Code, is amended— actment of the Marijuana Opportunity Rein- 1968. (A) by striking ‘‘means any substance’’ and vestment and Expungement Act of 2020.’’. ‘‘(2) 10 percent to the Attorney General to inserting the following: ‘‘means— (h) SPECIAL RULE FOR CERTAIN REGULA- carry out section 3052(b) of part OO of the Om- ‘‘(A) any substance’’; and TIONS.— nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of (B) by striking the period at the end and in- (1) IN GENERAL.—The amendments made by 1968. serting ‘‘; and this section may not be construed to abridge the ‘‘(3) 20 percent to the Administrator of the ‘‘(B) any substance not covered under sub- authority of the Secretary of Transportation, or Small Business Administration to carry out sec- paragraph (A) that was a substance under such the Secretary of the department in which the tion 6(b)(1) of the Marijuana Opportunity Rein- section as of December 1, 2018, and specified by Coast Guard is operating, to regulate and screen vestment and Expungement Act of 2020. the Secretary of Transportation.’’. for the use of a controlled substance. ‘‘(4) 20 percent to the Administrator of the (5) FRA PROVISIONS.—Section 20140(a) of title (2) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE DEFINED.—In this Small Business Administration to carry out sec- 49, United States Code, is amended— subsection, the term ‘‘controlled substance’’ tion 6(b)(2) of the Marijuana Opportunity Rein- (A) by striking ‘‘means any substance’’ and means— vestment and Expungement Act of 2020.’’. inserting the following: ‘‘means— (A) any substance covered under section 102 (b) CANNABIS REVENUE AND REGULATION ‘‘(A) any substance’’; and of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802) ACT.—Subtitle E of the Internal Revenue Code (B) by striking the period at the end and in- on the day before the date of enactment of this of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the fol- serting ‘‘; and Act; and lowing new chapter: (B) any substance not covered under subpara- ‘‘(B) any substance not covered under sub- ‘‘CHAPTER 56—CANNABIS PRODUCTS graph (A) that was a substance covered under paragraph (A) that was a substance under such ‘‘SUBCHAPTER A. TAX ON CANNABIS PRODUCTS section as of December 1, 2018, and specified by section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 ‘‘SUBCHAPTER B. OCCUPATIONAL TAX the Secretary of Transportation.’’. U.S.C. 802) on December 1, 2018, and specified by the Secretary of Transportation. (6) FTA PROVISIONS.—Section 5331(a)(1) of ‘‘SUBCHAPTER C. BOND AND PERMITS title 49, United States Code, is amended— SEC. 4. DEMOGRAPHIC DATA OF CANNABIS BUSI- ‘‘SUBCHAPTER D. OPERATIONS NESS OWNERS AND EMPLOYEES. (A) by striking ‘‘means any substance’’ and ‘‘SUBCHAPTER E. PENALTIES (a) IN GENERAL.—The Bureau of Labor Statis- inserting the following: ‘‘means— ‘‘Subchapter A—Tax on Cannabis Products ‘‘(A) any substance’’; and tics shall regularly compile, maintain, and make ‘‘Sec. 5901. Imposition of tax. (B) by striking the period at the end and in- public data on the demographics of— (1) individuals who are business owners in the ‘‘Sec. 5902. Definitions. serting ‘‘; and cannabis industry; and ‘‘Sec. 5903. Liability and method of payment. ‘‘(B) any substance not covered under sub- (2) individuals who are employed in the can- ‘‘Sec. 5904. Exemption from tax; transfers in paragraph (A) that was a substance under such nabis industry. bond. section as of December 1, 2018, and whose use (b) DEMOGRAPHIC DATA.—The data collected ‘‘Sec. 5905. Credit, refund, or drawback of tax. the Secretary of Transportation decides has a under subsection (a) shall include data regard- ‘‘SEC. 5901. IMPOSITION OF TAX. risk to transportation safety.’’. ing— ‘‘(a) IMPOSITION OF TAX.—There is hereby im- (d) RETROACTIVITY.—The amendments made (1) age; posed on any cannabis product produced in or by this section to the Controlled Substances Act (2) certifications and licenses; imported into the United States a tax equal to— (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) are retroactive and shall (3) disability status; ‘‘(1) for any such product removed during the apply to any offense committed, case pending, (4) educational attainment; first 5 calendar years ending after the date on conviction entered, and, in the case of a juve- (5) family and marital status; (6) nativity; which this chapter becomes effective, the appli- nile, any offense committed, case pending, or cable percentage of such product’s removal adjudication of juvenile delinquency entered be- (7) race and Hispanic ethnicity; (8) school enrollment; price, and fore, on, or after the date of enactment of this (9) veteran status; and ‘‘(2) for any product removed during any cal- Act. (10) sex. endar year after the calendar years described in (e) EFFECT ON OTHER LAW.—Nothing in this (c) CONFIDENTIALITY.—The name, address, paragraph (1), the applicable equivalent subtitle shall affect or modify— and other identifying information of individuals amount. (1) the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act employed in the cannabis industry shall be kept ‘‘(b) APPLICABLE PERCENTAGE.—For purposes (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.); confidential by the Bureau and not be made of subsection (a)(1), the applicable percentage (2) section 351 of the Public Health Service Act available to the public. shall be determined as follows: (42 U.S.C. 262); or (d) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: ‘‘(1) For any cannabis product removed dur- (3) the authority of the Commissioner of Food (1) CANNABIS.—The term ‘‘cannabis’’ means ing the first 2 calendar years ending after the and Drugs and the Secretary of Health and either marijuana or cannabis as defined under date on which this chapter becomes effective, 5 Human Services— the State law authorizing the sale or use of can- percent. (A) under— nabis in which the individual or entity is lo- ‘‘(2) For any cannabis product removed dur- (i) the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act cated. ing the calendar year after the last calendar (21 U.S. 301 et seq.); or (2) CANNABIS INDUSTRY.—The term ‘‘cannabis year to which paragraph (1) applies, 6 percent. (ii) section 351 of the Public Health Service industry’’ means an individual or entity that is ‘‘(3) For any cannabis product removed dur- Act (42 U.S.C. 262); or licensed or permitted under a State or local law ing the calendar year after the calendar year to (B) to promulgate Federal regulations and to engage in commercial cannabis-related activ- which paragraph (2) applies, 7 percent. guidelines that relate to products containing ity. ‘‘(4) For any cannabis product removed dur- cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds under (3) OWNER.—The term ‘‘owner’’ means an in- ing the calendar year after the calendar year to the Act described in subparagraph (A)(i) or the dividual or entity that is defined as an owner which paragraph (3) applies, 8 percent. section described in subparagraph (A)(ii). under the State or local law where the indi- ‘‘(c) APPLICABLE EQUIVALENT AMOUNT.— (f) PUBLIC MEETINGS.—Not later than one vidual or business is licensed or permitted. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of subsection year after the date of enactment of this Act, the SEC. 5. CREATION OF OPPORTUNITY TRUST FUND (a)(2), the term ‘applicable equivalent amount’ Secretary of Health and Human Services, acting AND IMPOSITION OF TAXES WITH means, with respect to any cannabis product re- through the Commissioner of Food and Drugs, RESPECT TO CANNABIS PRODUCTS. moved during any calendar year, an amount shall hold not less than one public meeting to (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF TRUST FUND.—Sub- equal to— address the regulation, safety, manufacturing, chapter A of chapter 98 of the Internal Revenue ‘‘(A) in the case of any cannabis product not product quality, marketing, labeling, and sale of Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end described in subparagraph (B), the product of products containing cannabis or cannabis-de- the following new section: the applicable rate per ounce multiplied by the rived compounds. ‘‘SEC. 9512. OPPORTUNITY TRUST FUND. number of ounces of such product (and a pro- (g) SPECIAL RULE FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYEE ‘‘(a) CREATION OF TRUST FUND.—There is es- portionate tax at the like rate on all fractional TESTING.—Section 503 of the Supplemental Ap- tablished in the Treasury of the United States a parts of an ounce of such product), and

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‘‘(B) in the case of any THC-measurable can- ‘‘(1) CANNABIS ENTERPRISE.—The term ‘can- the transferor shall thereupon be relieved of nabis product, the product of the applicable rate nabis enterprise’ means a producer, importer, or their liability for such tax, and per gram multiplied by the number of grams of export warehouse proprietor. ‘‘(ii) in the case of cannabis products which tetrahydrocannabinol in such product (and a ‘‘(2) PRODUCER.— are released in bond from customs custody for proportionate tax at the like rate on all frac- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘producer’ means transfer to the bonded premises of a producer, tional parts of a gram of tetrahydrocannabinol any person who plants, cultivates, harvests, the transferee shall become liable for the tax on in such product). grows, manufactures, produces, compounds, such articles upon release from customs custody, ‘‘(2) APPLICABLE RATES.— converts, processes, prepares, or packages any and the importer shall thereupon be relieved of ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of paragraph cannabis product. their liability for such tax. (1)(A), the term ‘applicable rate per ounce’ ‘‘(B) PERSONAL USE EXCEPTION.—Subject to ‘‘(B) RETURNED TO BOND.—All provisions of means, with respect to any cannabis product re- regulation prescribed by the Secretary, the term this chapter applicable to cannabis products in moved during any calendar year, 8 percent of ‘producer’ shall not include any individual oth- bond shall be applicable to such articles re- the prevailing sales price of cannabis flowers erwise described in subparagraph (A) if the only turned to bond upon withdrawal from the mar- sold in the United States during the 12-month cannabis product described in such subpara- ket or returned to bond after previous removal period ending one calendar quarter before such graph with respect to such individual is for per- for a tax-exempt purpose. calendar year, expressed on a per ounce basis, sonal or family use and not for sale. ‘‘(b) METHOD OF PAYMENT OF TAX.— as determined by the Secretary. ‘‘(3) IMPORTER.—The term ‘importer’ means ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.— ‘‘(B) THC-MEASURABLE CANNABIS PRODUCTS.— any person who— ‘‘(A) TAXES PAID ON BASIS OF RETURN.—The For purposes of paragraph (1)(B), the term ‘ap- ‘‘(A) is in the United States and to whom non- taxes imposed by section 5901 shall be paid on plicable rate per gram’ means, with respect to tax-paid cannabis products, produced in a for- the basis of return. The Secretary shall, by reg- any cannabis product removed during any cal- eign country or a possession of the United ulations, prescribe the period or the event to be endar year, 8 percent of the prevailing sales States, are shipped or consigned, covered by such return and the information to price of tetrahydrocannabinol sold in the United ‘‘(B) removes cannabis products for sale or be furnished on such return. States during the 12-month period ending one consumption in the United States from a cus- ‘‘(B) APPLICATION TO TRANSFEREES.—In the calendar quarter before such calendar year, ex- toms bonded warehouse, or case of any transfer to which subsection pressed on a per gram basis, as determined by ‘‘(C) smuggles or otherwise unlawfully brings (a)(2)(A) applies, the tax under section 5901 on the Secretary. any cannabis product into the United States. the transferee shall (if not otherwise relieved by ‘‘(d) TIME OF ATTACHMENT ON CANNABIS ‘‘(4) EXPORT WAREHOUSE PROPRIETOR.— reason of a subsequent transfer to which such PRODUCTS.—The tax under this section shall at- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘export ware- subsection applies) be imposed with respect to tach to any cannabis product as soon as such house proprietor’ means any person who oper- the removal of the cannabis product from the product is in existence as such, whether it be ates an export warehouse. bonded premises of the transferee. subsequently separated or transferred into any ‘‘(B) EXPORT WAREHOUSE.—The term ‘export ‘‘(C) POSTPONEMENT.—Any postponement other substance, either in the process of original warehouse’ means a bonded internal revenue under this subsection of the payment of taxes production or by any subsequent process. warehouse for the storage of cannabis products, determined at the time of removal shall be con- ‘‘SEC. 5902. DEFINITIONS. upon which the internal revenue tax has not ditioned upon the filing of such additional ‘‘(a) DEFINITIONS RELATED TO CANNABIS been paid— bonds, and upon compliance with such require- PRODUCTS.—For purposes of this chapter— ‘‘(i) for subsequent shipment to a foreign ments, as the Secretary may prescribe for the ‘‘(1) CANNABIS PRODUCT.— country or a possession of the United States, or protection of the revenue. The Secretary may, ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in sub- ‘‘(ii) for consumption beyond the jurisdiction by regulations, require payment of tax on the paragraph (B), the term ‘cannabis product’ of the internal revenue laws of the United basis of a return prior to removal of the can- means any article which contains (or consists States. nabis products where a person defaults in the of) cannabis. ‘‘(5) CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY.—The postponed payment of tax on the basis of a re- ‘‘(B) EXCEPTIONS.—The term ‘cannabis prod- term ‘cannabis production facility’ means an es- turn under this subsection or regulations pre- uct’ shall not include an FDA-approved article tablishment which is qualified under subchapter scribed thereunder. or industrial hemp. C to perform any operation for which such qual- ‘‘(D) ADMINISTRATION AND PENALTIES.—All ‘‘(C) FDA-APPROVED ARTICLE.—The term ification is required under such subchapter. administrative and penalty provisions of this title, insofar as applicable, shall apply to any ‘FDA-approved article’ means any article if the ‘‘(c) OTHER DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of producer or importer thereof demonstrates to the this chapter— tax imposed by section 5901. ‘‘(2) TIME FOR PAYMENT OF TAXES.— satisfaction of the Secretary of Health and ‘‘(1) PRODUCE.—The term ‘produce’ includes ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except as otherwise pro- Human Services that such article is— any activity described in subsection (b)(2)(A). vided in this paragraph, in the case of taxes on ‘‘(i) a drug— ‘‘(2) REMOVAL; REMOVE.—The terms ‘removal’ cannabis products removed during any semi- ‘‘(I) that is approved under section 505 of the or ‘remove’ means— monthly period under bond for deferred pay- Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or li- ‘‘(A) the transfer of cannabis products from ment of tax, the last day for payment of such censed under section 351 of the Public Health the premises of a producer (or the transfer of taxes shall be the 14th day after the last day of Service Act, or such products from the bonded premises of a such semimonthly period. ‘‘(II) for which an investigational use exemp- producer to a non-bonded premises of such pro- ‘‘(B) IMPORTED ARTICLES.—In the case of can- tion has been authorized under section 505(i) of ducer), nabis products which are imported into the the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act or ‘‘(B) release of such products from customs United States, the following provisions shall under section 351(a) of the Public Health Service custody, or apply: Act, or ‘‘(C) smuggling or other unlawful importation ‘‘(ii) a combination product (as described in ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The last day for payment of of such products into the United States. section 503(g) of the Federal Food, Drug, and tax shall be the 14th day after the last day of ‘‘(3) REMOVAL PRICE.—The term ‘removal Cosmetic Act), the constituent parts of which the semimonthly period during which the article price’ means— were approved or cleared under section 505, is entered into the customs territory of the ‘‘(A) except as otherwise provided in this 510(k), or 515 of such Act. United States. paragraph, the price for which the cannabis ‘‘(D) INDUSTRIAL HEMP.—The term ‘industrial ‘‘(ii) SPECIAL RULE FOR ENTRY OF product is sold in the sale which occurs in con- hemp’ means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and WAREHOUSING.—Except as provided in clause nection with the removal of such product, any part of such plant, whether growing or not, (iv), in the case of an entry for warehousing, ‘‘(B) in the case of any such sale which is de- with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentra- the last day for payment of tax shall not be scribed in section 5903(c), the price determined tion of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry later than the 14th day after the last day of the under such section, and weight basis. semimonthly period during which the article is ‘‘(C) if there is no sale which occurs in con- ‘‘(2) THC-MEASURABLE CANNABIS PRODUCT.— removed from the first such warehouse. nection with such removal, the price which The term ‘THC-measurable cannabis product’ ‘‘(iii) FOREIGN TRADE ZONES.—Except as pro- would be determined under section 5903(c) if means any cannabis product— vided in clause (iv) and in regulations pre- ‘‘(A) with respect to which the Secretary has such product were sold at a price which cannot scribed by the Secretary, articles brought into a made a determination that the amount of be determined. foreign trade zone shall, notwithstanding any tetrahydrocannabinol in such product can be ‘‘SEC. 5903. LIABILITY AND METHOD OF PAYMENT. other provision of law, be treated for purposes of measured with a high degree of accuracy, or ‘‘(a) LIABILITY FOR TAX.— this subsection as if such zone were a single cus- ‘‘(B) which is not cannabis flower and the ‘‘(1) ORIGINAL LIABILITY.—The producer or toms warehouse. concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol in which importer of any cannabis product shall be liable ‘‘(iv) EXCEPTION FOR ARTICLES DESTINED FOR is significantly higher than the average such for the taxes imposed thereon by section 5901. EXPORT.—Clauses (ii) and (iii) shall not apply to concentration in cannabis flower. ‘‘(2) TRANSFER OF LIABILITY.— any article which is shown to the satisfaction of ‘‘(3) CANNABIS.—The term ‘cannabis’ has the ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—When cannabis products the Secretary to be destined for export. meaning given such term under section 102(16) are transferred, without payment of tax, pursu- ‘‘(C) CANNABIS PRODUCTS BROUGHT INTO THE of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. ant to subsection (b) or (c) of section 5904— UNITED STATES FROM PUERTO RICO.—In the case 802(16)). ‘‘(i) except as provided in clause (ii), the of cannabis products which are brought into the ‘‘(b) DEFINITIONS RELATED TO CANNABIS EN- transferee shall become liable for the tax upon United States from Puerto Rico and subject to TERPRISES.—For purposes of this chapter— receipt by the transferee of such articles, and tax under section 7652, the last day for payment

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of tax shall be the 14th day after the last day of ‘‘(1) PARTIAL PAYMENTS.—In the case of— notices as the Secretary shall by regulations the semimonthly period during which the article ‘‘(A) a contract for the sale of an article prescribe. is brought into the United States. wherein it is provided that the price shall be ‘‘(c) CANNABIS PRODUCTS RELEASED IN BOND ‘‘(D) SPECIAL RULE WHERE DUE DATE FALLS ON paid by installments and title to the article sold FROM CUSTOMS CUSTODY.—Cannabis products SATURDAY, SUNDAY, OR HOLIDAY.—Notwith- does not pass until a future date notwith- imported or brought into the United States may standing section 7503, if, but for this subpara- standing partial payment by installments, be released from customs custody, without pay- graph, the due date under this paragraph would ‘‘(B) a conditional sale, or ment of tax, for delivery to a producer or export fall on a Saturday, Sunday, or a legal holiday ‘‘(C) a chattel mortgage arrangement wherein warehouse proprietor if such articles are not put (as defined in section 7503), such due date shall it is provided that the sales price shall be paid up in packages, in accordance with such regula- be the immediately preceding day which is not a in installments, tions and under such bond as the Secretary Saturday, Sunday, or such a holiday. there shall be paid upon each payment with re- shall prescribe. ‘‘(E) SPECIAL RULE FOR UNLAWFULLY PRO- spect to the article a percentage of such pay- ‘‘(d) CANNABIS PRODUCTS EXPORTED AND RE- DUCED CANNABIS PRODUCTS.—In the case of any ment equal to the rate of tax in effect on the TURNED.—Cannabis products classifiable under cannabis products produced in the United date such payment is due. item 9801.00.10 of the Harmonized Tariff Sched- States at any place other than the premises of a ‘‘(2) SALES OF INSTALLMENT ACCOUNTS.—If in- ule of the United States (relating to duty on cer- producer that has filed the bond and obtained stallment accounts, with respect to payments on tain articles previously exported and returned), the permit required under this chapter, tax shall which tax is being computed as provided in as in effect on the date of the enactment of the be due and payable immediately upon produc- paragraph (1), are sold or otherwise disposed of, Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and tion. then paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect Expungement Act of 2020, may be released from ‘‘(3) PAYMENT BY ELECTRONIC FUND TRANS- to any subsequent payments on such accounts customs custody, without payment of that part FER.—Any person who in any 12-month period, (other than subsequent payments on returned of the duty attributable to the internal revenue ending December 31, was liable for a gross accounts with respect to which credit or refund tax for delivery to the original producer of such amount equal to or exceeding $5,000,000 in taxes is allowable by reason of section 6416(b)(5)), but cannabis products or to the export warehouse imposed on cannabis products by section 5901 instead— proprietor authorized by such producer to re- (or section 7652) shall pay such taxes during the ‘‘(A) there shall be paid an amount equal to ceive such products, in accordance with such succeeding calendar year by electronic fund the difference between— regulations and under such bond as the Sec- transfer (as defined in section 5061(e)(2)) to a ‘‘(i) the tax previously paid on the payments retary shall prescribe. Upon such release such Federal Reserve Bank. Rules similar to the rules on such installment accounts, and products shall be subject to this chapter as if of section 5061(e)(3) shall apply to the $5,000,000 ‘‘(ii) the total tax which would be payable if they had not been exported or otherwise re- amount specified in the preceding sentence. such installment accounts had not been sold or moved from internal revenue bond. ‘‘(c) DETERMINATION OF PRICE.— otherwise disposed of (computed as provided in ‘‘SEC. 5905. CREDIT, REFUND, OR DRAWBACK OF ‘‘(1) CONSTRUCTIVE SALE PRICE.— paragraph (1)), except that TAX. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—If an article is sold directly ‘‘(B) if any such sale is pursuant to the order ‘‘(a) CREDIT OR REFUND.— to consumers, sold on consignment, or sold (oth- of, or subject to the approval of, a court of com- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Credit or refund of any tax erwise than through an arm’s length trans- petent jurisdiction in a bankruptcy or insol- imposed by this chapter or section 7652 shall be action) at less than the fair market price, or if vency proceeding, the amount computed under allowed or made (without interest) to the can- the price for which the article sold cannot be de- subparagraph (A) shall not exceed the sum of nabis enterprise on proof satisfactory to the Sec- termined, the tax under section 5901(a) shall be the amounts computed by multiplying— retary that the claimant cannabis enterprise has computed on the price for which such articles ‘‘(i) the proportionate share of the amount for paid the tax on— are sold, in the ordinary course of trade, by pro- which such accounts are sold which is allocable ‘‘(A) cannabis products withdrawn from the ducers thereof, as determined by the Secretary. to each unpaid installment payment, by market by the claimant, or ‘‘(B) ARM’S LENGTH.— ‘‘(ii) the rate of tax under this chapter in ef- ‘‘(B) such products lost (otherwise than by ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this section, fect on the date such unpaid installment pay- theft) or destroyed, by fire, casualty, or act of a sale is considered to be made under cir- ment is or was due. God, while in the possession or ownership of the cumstances otherwise than at arm’s length if— The sum of the amounts payable under this sub- claimant. ‘‘(2) CANNABIS PRODUCTS LOST OR DESTROYED ‘‘(I) the parties are members of the same con- section in respect of the sale of any article shall IN BOND.— trolled group, whether or not such control is ac- not exceed the total tax. tually exercised to influence the sale price, or ‘‘(A) EXTENT OF LOSS ALLOWANCE.—No tax ‘‘(II) the parties are members of a family, as ‘‘SEC. 5904. EXEMPTION FROM TAX; TRANSFERS shall be collected in respect of cannabis prod- IN BOND. defined in section 267(c)(4), or ucts lost or destroyed while in bond, except that ‘‘(III) the sale is made pursuant to special ar- ‘‘(a) EXEMPTION FROM TAX.—Cannabis prod- such tax shall be collected— rangements between a producer and a pur- ucts on which the internal revenue tax has not ‘‘(i) in the case of loss by theft, unless the Sec- chaser. been paid or determined may, subject to such retary finds that the theft occurred without con- ‘‘(ii) CONTROLLED GROUPS.— regulations as the Secretary shall prescribe, be nivance, collusion, fraud, or negligence on the ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘controlled group’ withdrawn from the bonded premises of any part of the proprietor of the cannabis produc- has the meaning given to such term by sub- producer in approved containers free of tax and tion facility, owner, consignor, consignee, bail- section (a) of section 1563, except that ‘more not for resale for use— ee, or carrier, or their employees or agents, than 50 percent’ shall be substituted for ‘at least ‘‘(1) exclusively in scientific research by a lab- ‘‘(ii) in the case of voluntary destruction, un- 80 percent’ each place it appears in such sub- oratory, less such destruction is carried out as provided section. ‘‘(2) by a proprietor of a cannabis production in paragraph (3), and ‘‘(II) CONTROLLED GROUPS WHICH INCLUDE facility in research, development, or testing ‘‘(iii) in the case of an unexplained shortage NONINCORPORATED PERSONS.—Under regulations (other than consumer testing or other market of cannabis products. prescribed by the Secretary, principles similar to analysis) of processes, systems, materials, or ‘‘(B) PROOF OF LOSS.—In any case in which the principles of subclause (I) shall apply to a equipment, relating to cannabis or cannabis op- cannabis products are lost or destroyed, whether group of persons under common control where erations, under such limitations and conditions by theft or otherwise, the Secretary may require one or more of such persons is not a corpora- as to quantities, use, and accountability as the the proprietor of a cannabis production facility tion. Secretary may by regulations require for the or other person liable for the tax to file a claim ‘‘(2) CONTAINERS, PACKING AND TRANSPOR- protection of the revenue, or for relief from the tax and submit proof as to the TATION CHARGES.—In determining, for the pur- ‘‘(3) by the United States or any governmental cause of such loss. In every case where it ap- poses of this chapter, the price for which an ar- agency thereof, any State, any political subdivi- pears that the loss was by theft, the burden ticle is sold, there shall be included any charge sion of a State, or the District of Columbia, for shall be upon the proprietor of the cannabis for coverings and containers of whatever na- nonconsumption purposes. production facility or other person responsible ture, and any charge incident to placing the ar- ‘‘(b) CANNABIS PRODUCTS TRANSFERRED OR for the tax under section 5901 to establish to the ticle in condition packed ready for shipment, REMOVED IN BOND FROM DOMESTIC FACTORIES satisfaction of the Secretary that such loss did but there shall be excluded the amount of tax AND EXPORT WAREHOUSES.— not occur as the result of connivance, collusion, imposed by this chapter, whether or not stated ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to such regulations fraud, or negligence on the part of the propri- as a separate charge. A transportation, delivery, and under such bonds as the Secretary shall etor of the cannabis production facility, owner, insurance, installation, or other charge (not re- prescribe, a producer or export warehouse pro- consignor, consignee, bailee, or carrier, or their quired by the preceding sentence to be included) prietor may transfer cannabis products, without employees or agents. shall be excluded from the price only if the payment of tax, to the bonded premises of an- ‘‘(C) REFUND OF TAX.—In any case where the amount thereof is established to the satisfaction other producer or export warehouse proprietor, tax would not be collectible by virtue of sub- of the Secretary in accordance with regulations. or remove such articles, without payment of tax, paragraph (A), but such tax has been paid, the ‘‘(3) DETERMINATION OF APPLICABLE EQUIVA- for shipment to a foreign country or a posses- Secretary shall refund such tax. LENT AMOUNTS.—Paragraphs (1) and (2) shall sion of the United States, or for consumption be- ‘‘(D) LIMITATIONS.—Except as provided in apply for purposes of section 5901(c) only to the yond the jurisdiction of the internal revenue subparagraph (E), no tax shall be abated, remit- extent that the Secretary determines appro- laws of the United States. ted, credited, or refunded under this paragraph priate. ‘‘(2) LABELING.—Cannabis products may not where the loss occurred after the tax was deter- ‘‘(d) PARTIAL PAYMENTS AND INSTALLMENT be transferred or removed under this subsection mined. The abatement, remission, credit, or re- ACCOUNTS.— unless such products bear such marks, labels, or fund of taxes provided for by subparagraphs (A)

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Application for permit. of cannabis products lost after the tax was de- the same person at the same time, except as oth- ‘‘Sec. 5923. Permit. termined and before completion of the physical erwise provided in this subchapter, the occupa- removal of the cannabis products from the bond- tional tax shall be paid for each according to ‘‘SEC. 5921. ESTABLISHMENT AND BOND. ed premises. the rates severally prescribed. ‘‘(a) PROHIBITION ON PRODUCTION OUTSIDE OF ‘‘(3) VOLUNTARY DESTRUCTION.—The propri- ‘‘(c) BUSINESSES IN MORE THAN ONE LOCA- BONDED CANNABIS PRODUCTION FACILITY.— etor of a cannabis production facility or other TION.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Except as authorized by the persons liable for the tax imposed by this chap- ‘‘(1) LIABILITY FOR TAX.—The payment of the Secretary or on the bonded premises of a can- ter or by section 7652 with respect to any can- occupational tax shall not exempt from an addi- nabis production facility duly authorized to nabis product in bond may voluntarily destroy tional occupational tax the person carrying on produce cannabis products according to law, no such products, but only if such destruction is a trade or business in any other place than that cannabis product may planted, cultivated, har- under such supervision and under such regula- stated in the records of the Internal Revenue vested, grown, manufactured, produced, com- tions as the Secretary may prescribe. Service. pounded, converted, processed, prepared, or ‘‘(4) LIMITATION.—Any claim for credit or re- ‘‘(2) STORAGE.—Nothing contained in para- packaged in any building or on any premises. fund of tax under this subsection shall be filed graph (1) shall require imposition of an occupa- ‘‘(2) AUTHORIZED PRODUCERS ONLY.—No per- within 6 months after the date of the with- tional tax for the storage of cannabis products son other than a producer which has filed the drawal from the market, loss, or destruction of at a location other than the place where such bond required under subsection (b) and received the products to which the claim relates, and products are sold or offered for sale. a permit described in section 5923 may produce shall be in such form and contain such informa- ‘‘(3) PLACE.— any cannabis product. tion as the Secretary shall by regulations pre- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this sec- ‘‘(3) PERSONAL USE EXCEPTION.—This sub- scribe. tion, the term ‘place’ means the entire office, section shall not apply with respect the activi- ‘‘(b) DRAWBACK OF TAX.—There shall be an plant or area of the business in any one location ties of an individual who is not treated as a pro- allowance of drawback of tax paid on cannabis under the same proprietorship. ducer by reason of section 5902(b)(2)(B). products, when shipped from the United States, ‘‘(B) DIVISIONS.—For purposes of this para- ‘‘(b) BOND.— in accordance with such regulations and upon graph, any passageways, streets, highways, rail ‘‘(1) WHEN REQUIRED.—Every person, before the filing of such bond as the Secretary shall crossings, waterways, or partitions dividing the commencing business as a producer or an export prescribe. premises shall not be deemed sufficient separa- warehouse proprietor, shall file such bond, con- ‘‘Subchapter B—Occupational Tax tion to require an additional occupational tax, ditioned upon compliance with this chapter and ‘‘Sec. 5911. Imposition and rate of tax. if the various divisions are otherwise contig- regulations issued thereunder, in such form, ‘‘Sec. 5912. Payment of tax. uous. amount, and manner as the Secretary shall by ‘‘Sec. 5913. Provisions relating to liability for ‘‘(d) DEATH OR CHANGE OF LOCATION.— regulation prescribe. A new or additional bond occupational taxes. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In addition to the person may be required whenever the Secretary con- ‘‘Sec. 5914. Application to State laws. who has paid the occupational tax for the car- siders such action necessary for the protection ‘‘SEC. 5911. IMPOSITION AND RATE OF TAX. rying on of any business at any place, any per- of the revenue. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Any person engaged in son described in paragraph (2) may secure the ‘‘(2) APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL.—No person business as a producer or an export warehouse right to carry on, without incurring any addi- shall engage in such business until he receives proprietor shall pay a tax of $1,000 per year (re- tional occupational tax, the same business at notice of approval of such bond. A bond may be ferred to in this subchapter as an ‘occupational the same place for the remainder of the taxable disapproved, upon notice to the principal on the tax’) in respect of each premises at which such period for which the occupational tax was paid. bond, if the Secretary determines that the bond business is carried on. ‘‘(2) ELIGIBLE PERSONS.—The persons de- is not adequate to protect the revenue. ‘‘(b) PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER.— scribed in this paragraph are the following: ‘‘(3) CANCELLATION.—Any bond filed here- Any person engaged in business as a producer ‘‘(A) The surviving spouse or child, or execu- under may be canceled, upon notice to the prin- or an export warehouse proprietor who willfully tor or administrator or other legal representa- cipal on the bond, whenever the Secretary deter- fails to pay the occupation tax shall be fined tive, of a deceased taxpayer. mines that the bond no longer adequately pro- not more than $5,000, or imprisoned not more ‘‘(B) A husband or wife succeeding to the tects the revenue. than 2 years, or both, for each such offense. business of his or her living spouse. ‘‘SEC. 5922. APPLICATION FOR PERMIT. ‘‘SEC. 5912. PAYMENT OF TAX. ‘‘(C) A receiver or trustee in bankruptcy, or ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Every person, before com- ‘‘(a) CONDITION PRECEDENT TO CARRYING ON an assignee for benefit of creditors. mencing business as a cannabis enterprise, and BUSINESS.—No person shall be engaged in or ‘‘(D) The partner or partners remaining after at such other time as the Secretary shall by reg- carry on any trade or business subject to the oc- death or withdrawal of a member of a partner- ulation prescribe, shall make application for the cupational tax until such person has paid such ship. permit provided for in section 5923. The applica- tax. ‘‘(3) CHANGE OF LOCATION.—When any person tion shall be in such form as the Secretary shall ‘‘(b) COMPUTATION.— moves to any place other than the place for prescribe and shall set forth, truthfully and ac- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The occupational tax shall which occupational tax was paid for the car- curately, the information called for on the form. be imposed— rying on of any business, such person may se- Such application may be rejected and the permit ‘‘(A) as of on the first day of July in each cure the right to carry on, without incurring ad- denied if the Secretary, after notice and oppor- year, or ditional occupational tax, the same business at tunity for hearing, finds that— ‘‘(B) on commencing any trade or business on the new location for the remainder of the tax- ‘‘(1) the premises on which it is proposed to which such tax is imposed. able period for which the occupational tax was conduct the cannabis enterprise are not ade- ‘‘(2) PERIOD.—In the case of a tax imposed paid. To secure the right to carry on the busi- quate to protect the revenue, or under subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1), the ness without incurring additional occupational ‘‘(2) such person (including, in the case of a occupational tax shall be reckoned for 1 year, tax, the successor, or the person relocating their corporation, any officer, director, or principal and in the case of subparagraph (B) of such business, must register the succession or reloca- stockholder and, in the case of a partnership, a paragraph, it shall be reckoned proportionately, tion with the Secretary in accordance with reg- partner)— from the first day of the month in which the li- ulations prescribed by the Secretary. ‘‘(A) is, by reason of their business experience, ability to such tax commenced, to and including ‘‘(e) FEDERAL AGENCIES OR INSTRUMENTAL- financial standing, or trade connections or by the 30th day of June following. ITIES.—Any tax imposed by this subchapter reason of previous or current legal proceedings ‘‘(c) METHOD OF PAYMENT.— ‘‘(1) PAYMENT BY RETURN.—The occupational shall apply to any agency or instrumentality of involving a felony violation of any other provi- tax shall be paid on the basis of a return under the United States unless such agency or instru- sion of Federal or State criminal law relating to such regulations as the Secretary shall pre- mentality is granted by statute a specific exemp- cannabis or cannabis products, not likely to scribe. tion from such tax. maintain operations in compliance with this ‘‘(2) STAMP DENOTING PAYMENT OF TAX.—After ‘‘SEC. 5914. APPLICATION TO STATE LAWS. chapter, or receiving a properly executed return and remit- ‘‘The payment of any tax imposed by this sub- ‘‘(B) has failed to disclose any material infor- tance of any occupational tax, the Secretary chapter for carrying on any trade or business mation required or made any material false shall issue to the taxpayer an appropriate stamp shall not be held to— statement in the application therefor. as a receipt denoting payment of the tax. This ‘‘(1) exempt any person from any penalty or ‘‘SEC. 5923. PERMIT. paragraph shall not apply in the case of a re- punishment provided by the laws of any State ‘‘(a) ISSUANCE.—A person shall not engage in turn covering liability for a past period. for carrying on such trade or business within business as a cannabis enterprise without a per- ‘‘SEC. 5913. PROVISIONS RELATING TO LIABILITY such State, or in any manner to authorize the mit to engage in such business. Such permit, FOR OCCUPATIONAL TAXES. commencement or continuance of such trade or conditioned upon compliance with this chapter ‘‘(a) PARTNERS.—Any number of persons business contrary to the laws of such State or in and regulations issued thereunder, shall be doing business in partnership at any one place places prohibited by municipal law, or issued in such form and in such manner as the

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Secretary shall by regulation prescribe. A new ‘‘(d) INDECENT OR IMMORAL MATERIAL PRO- ‘‘(2) ALTERATIONS BY PERSONS OTHER THAN permit may be required at such other time as the HIBITED.—No indecent or immoral picture, print, ORIGINAL PRODUCER.—This section shall apply Secretary shall by regulation prescribe. or representation shall be contained in, at- to articles labeled for export even if the pack- ‘‘(b) SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION.— tached to, or stamped, marked, written, or print- aging or the appearance of such packaging to ‘‘(1) SHOW CAUSE HEARING.—If the Secretary ed on any package of cannabis products. the consumer of such articles has been modified has reason to believe that any person holding a ‘‘(e) EXCEPTIONS.—Subject to regulations pre- or altered by a person other than the original permit— scribed by the Secretary, cannabis products may producer so as to remove or conceal or attempt ‘‘(A) has not in good faith complied with this be exempted from subsections (a) and (b) if such to remove or conceal (including by the place- chapter, or with any other provision of this title products are— ment of a sticker over) any export label. involving intent to defraud, ‘‘(1) for experimental purposes, or ‘‘(3) EXPORTS INCLUDE SHIPMENTS TO PUERTO ‘‘(B) has violated the conditions of such per- ‘‘(2) transferred to the bonded premises of an- RICO.—For purposes of this section, section mit, other producer or export warehouse proprietor 5904(d), section 5941, and such other provisions ‘‘(C) has failed to disclose any material infor- or released in bond from customs custody for de- as the Secretary may specify by regulations, ref- mation required or made any material false livery to a producer. erences to exportation shall be treated as includ- statement in the application for such permit, ‘‘SEC. 5933. PURCHASE, RECEIPT, POSSESSION, OR ing a reference to shipment to the Common- ‘‘(D) has failed to maintain their premises in SALE OF CANNABIS PRODUCTS wealth of Puerto Rico. such manner as to protect the revenue, or AFTER REMOVAL. ‘‘(b) EXPORT LABEL.—For purposes of this ‘‘(E) is, by reason of previous or current legal ‘‘(a) RESTRICTION.—No person shall— section, an article is labeled for export or con- proceedings involving a felony violation of any ‘‘(1) with intent to defraud the United States, tains an export label if it bears the mark, label, other provision of Federal or State criminal law purchase, receive, possess, offer for sale, or sell or notice required under section 5904(b). relating to cannabis, not likely to maintain op- or otherwise dispose of, after removal, any can- ‘‘Subchapter E—Penalties erations in compliance with this chapter, nabis products— the Secretary shall issue an order, stating the ‘‘Sec. 5941. Civil penalties. ‘‘(A) upon which the tax has not been paid or ‘‘Sec. 5942. Criminal penalties. facts charged, citing such person to show cause determined in the manner and at the time pre- ‘‘SEC. 5941. CIVIL PENALTIES. why their permit should not be suspended or re- scribed by this chapter or regulations there- ‘‘(a) OMITTING THINGS REQUIRED OR DOING voked. under, or THINGS FORBIDDEN.—Whoever willfully omits, ‘‘(2) ACTION FOLLOWING HEARING.—If, after ‘‘(B) which, after removal without payment of neglects, or refuses to comply with any duty im- hearing, the Secretary finds that such person tax pursuant to section 5904(a), have been di- posed upon them by this chapter, or to do, or has not shown cause why their permit should verted from the applicable purpose or use speci- cause to be done, any of the things required by not be suspended or revoked, such permit shall fied in that section, be suspended for such period as the Secretary ‘‘(2) with intent to defraud the United States, this chapter, or does anything prohibited by this deems proper or shall be revoked. purchase, receive, possess, offer for sale, or sell chapter, shall in addition to any other penalty ‘‘(c) INFORMATION REPORTING.—The Secretary or otherwise dispose of, after removal, any can- provided in this title, be liable to a penalty of may require— nabis products which are not put up in pack- $10,000, to be recovered, with costs of suit, in a ‘‘(1) information reporting by any person ages as required under section 5932 or which are civil action, except where a penalty under sub- issued a permit under this section, and put up in packages not bearing the marks, la- section (b) or (c) or under section 6651 or 6653 or ‘‘(2) information reporting by such other per- bels, and notices, as required under such sec- part II of subchapter A of chapter 68 may be sons as the Secretary deems necessary to carry tion, or collected from such person by assessment. ‘‘(b) FAILURE TO PAY TAX.—Whoever fails to out this chapter. ‘‘(3) otherwise than with intent to defraud the pay any tax imposed by this chapter at the time ‘‘(d) INSPECTION OR DISCLOSURE OF INFORMA- United States, purchase, receive, possess, offer prescribed by law or regulations, shall, in addi- TION.—For rules relating to inspection and dis- for sale, or sell or otherwise dispose of, after re- tion to any other penalty provided in this title, closure of returns and return information, see moval, any cannabis products which are not put be liable to a penalty of 10 percent of the tax section 6103(o). up in packages as required under section 5932 or due but unpaid. ‘‘Subchapter D—Operations which are put up in packages not bearing the ‘‘(c) SALE OF CANNABIS OR CANNABIS PROD- ‘‘Sec. 5931. Inventories, reports, and records. marks, labels, and notices, as required under UCTS FOR EXPORT.— ‘‘Sec. 5932. Packaging and labeling. such section. ‘‘(1) Every person who sells, relands, or re- ‘‘Sec. 5933. Purchase, receipt, possession, or ‘‘(b) EXCEPTION.—Paragraph (3) of subsection ceives within the jurisdiction of the United sale of cannabis products after re- (a) shall not prevent the sale or delivery of can- States any cannabis products which have been moval. nabis products directly to consumers from prop- labeled or shipped for exportation under this ‘‘Sec. 5934. Restrictions relating to marks, la- er packages, nor apply to such articles when so chapter, bels, notices, and packages. sold or delivered. ‘‘(2) every person who sells or receives such re- ‘‘Sec. 5935. Restriction on importation of pre- ‘‘(c) LIABILITY TO TAX.—Any person who pos- landed cannabis products, and viously exported cannabis prod- sesses cannabis products in violation of para- ‘‘(3) every person who aids or abets in such ucts. graph (1) or (2) of subsection (a) shall be liable selling, relanding, or receiving, ‘‘SEC. 5931. INVENTORIES, REPORTS, AND for a tax equal to the tax on such articles. shall, in addition to the tax and any other pen- RECORDS. ‘‘SEC. 5934. RESTRICTIONS RELATING TO MARKS, alty provided in this title, be liable for a penalty ‘‘Every cannabis enterprise shall— LABELS, NOTICES, AND PACKAGES. equal to the greater of $10,000 or 10 times the ‘‘(1) make a true and accurate inventory at ‘‘No person shall, with intent to defraud the amount of the tax imposed by this chapter. All the time of commencing business, at the time of United States, destroy, obliterate, or detach any cannabis products relanded within the jurisdic- concluding business, and at such other times, in mark, label, or notice prescribed or authorized, tion of the United States shall be forfeited to the such manner and form, and to include such by this chapter or regulations thereunder, to ap- United States and destroyed. All vessels, vehi- items, as the Secretary shall by regulation pre- pear on, or be affixed to, any package of can- cles, and aircraft used in such relanding or in scribe, with such inventories to be subject to nabis products before such package is emptied. removing such cannabis products from the place verification by any internal revenue officer, ‘‘SEC. 5935. RESTRICTION ON IMPORTATION OF where relanded, shall be forfeited to the United ‘‘(2) make reports containing such informa- PREVIOUSLY EXPORTED CANNABIS States. tion, in such form, at such times, and for such PRODUCTS. ‘‘(d) APPLICABILITY OF SECTION 6665.—The periods as the Secretary shall by regulation pre- ‘‘(a) EXPORT LABELED CANNABIS PRODUCTS.— penalties imposed by subsections (b) and (c) scribe, and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Cannabis products pro- shall be assessed, collected, and paid in the ‘‘(3) keep such records in such manner as the duced in the United States and labeled for ex- same manner as taxes, as provided in section Secretary shall by regulation prescribe, with portation under this chapter— 6665(a). such records to be available for inspection by ‘‘(A) may be transferred to or removed from ‘‘(e) CROSS REFERENCES.—For penalty for fail- any internal revenue officer during business the premises of a producer or an export ware- ure to make deposits or for overstatement of de- hours. house proprietor only if such articles are being posits, see section 6656. ‘‘SEC. 5932. PACKAGING AND LABELING. transferred or removed without tax in accord- ‘‘SEC. 5942. CRIMINAL PENALTIES. ‘‘(a) PACKAGES.—All cannabis products shall, ance with section 5904, ‘‘(a) FRAUDULENT OFFENSES.—Whoever, with before removal, be put up in such packages as ‘‘(B) may be imported or brought into the intent to defraud the United States— the Secretary shall by regulation prescribe. United States, after their exportation, only if ‘‘(1) engages in business as a cannabis enter- ‘‘(b) MARKS, LABELS, AND NOTICES.—Every such articles either are eligible to be released prise without filing the application and obtain- package of cannabis products shall, before re- from customs custody with the partial duty ex- ing the permit where required by this chapter or moval, bear the marks, labels, and notices if emption provided in section 5904(d) or are re- regulations thereunder, any, that the Secretary by regulation prescribes. turned to the original producer of such article ‘‘(2) fails to keep or make any record, return, ‘‘(c) LOTTERY FEATURES.—No certificate, cou- as provided in section 5904(c), and report, or inventory, or keeps or makes any false pon, or other device purporting to be or to rep- ‘‘(C) may not be sold or held for sale for do- or fraudulent record, return, report, or inven- resent a ticket, chance, share, or an interest in, mestic consumption in the United States unless tory, required by this chapter or regulations or dependent on, the event of a lottery shall be such articles are removed from their export thereunder, contained in, attached to, or stamped, marked, packaging and repackaged by the original pro- ‘‘(3) refuses to pay any tax imposed by this written, or printed on any package of cannabis ducer into new packaging that does not contain chapter, or attempts in any manner to evade or products. an export label. defeat the tax or the payment thereof,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.001 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6825 ‘‘(4) sells or otherwise transfers, contrary to shall report to the Assistant Attorney General tunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of this chapter or regulations thereunder, any can- for the Office of Justice Programs. The Director 2020). nabis products subject to tax under this chapter, shall award grants and may enter into com- ‘‘(2) The term ‘eligible entity’ means a non- or pacts, cooperative agreements, and contracts on profit organization, as defined in section ‘‘(5) purchases, receives, or possesses, with in- behalf of the Cannabis Justice Office. The Di- 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, that is tent to redistribute or resell, any cannabis prod- rector may not engage in any employment other representative of a community or a significant uct— than that of serving as the Director, nor may segment of a community with experience in pro- ‘‘(A) upon which the tax has not been paid or the Director hold any office in, or act in any ca- viding relevant services to individuals adversely determined in the manner and at the time pre- pacity for, any organization, agency, or institu- impacted by the War on Drugs in that commu- scribed by this chapter or regulations there- tion with which the Office makes any contract nity. under, or or other arrangement. ‘‘(3) The term ‘individuals adversely impacted ‘‘(B) which, without payment of tax pursuant ‘‘(c) EMPLOYEES.— by the War on Drugs’ has the meaning given to section 5904, have been diverted from the ap- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Director shall employ that term in section 6 of the Marijuana Oppor- plicable purpose or use specified in that section, as many full-time employees as are needed to tunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of shall, for each such offense, be fined not more carry out the duties and functions of the Can- 2020’’.’’. than $10,000, or imprisoned not more than 5 nabis Justice Office under subsection (d). Such (b) CANNABIS OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM; EQUI- years, or both. employees shall be exclusively assigned to the TABLE LICENSING GRANT PROGRAM.— (1) CANNABIS OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM.—The ‘‘(b) LIABILITY TO TAX.—Any person who pos- Cannabis Justice Office. Administrator of the Small Business Administra- sesses cannabis products in violation of sub- ‘‘(2) INITIAL HIRES.—Not later than 6 months tion shall establish and carry out a program, to section (a) shall be liable for a tax equal to the after the date of enactment of this section, the be known as the ‘‘Cannabis Opportunity Pro- tax on such articles.’’. Director shall— gram’’ to provide any eligible State or locality (c) STUDY.—Not later than 2 years after the ‘‘(A) hire no less than one-third of the total funds to make loans under section 7(m) of the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 5 number of employees of the Cannabis Justice Of- Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 363(m)) to assist years thereafter, the Secretary of the Treasury, fice; and small business concerns owned and controlled or the Secretary’s delegate, shall— ‘‘(B) no more than one-half of the employees by socially and economically disadvantaged in- (1) conduct a study concerning the character- assigned to the Cannabis Justice Office by term dividuals, as defined in section 8(d)(3)(C) of the istics of the cannabis industry, including the appointment that may after 2 years be converted Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(3)(C)) that number of persons operating cannabis enter- to career appointment. operate in the cannabis industry. prises at each level of such industry, the volume ‘‘(3) LEGAL COUNSEL.—At least one employee (2) EQUITABLE LICENSING GRANT PROGRAM.— of sales, the amount of tax collected each year, hired for the Cannabis Justice Office shall serve The Administrator of the Small Business Admin- and the areas of evasion, and as legal counsel to the Director and shall pro- istration shall establish and carry out a grant (2) submit to Congress recommendations to im- vide counsel to the Cannabis Justice Office. program, to be known as the ‘‘Equitable Licens- prove the regulation of the industry and the ad- ‘‘(d) DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS.—The Cannabis ing Grant Program’’, to provide any eligible ministration of the related tax. Justice Office is authorized to— State or locality funds to develop and implement (d) ANNUAL REPORTS REGARDING DETERMINA- ‘‘(1) administer the Community Reinvestment equitable cannabis licensing programs that min- TION OF APPLICABLE RATES.—Not later than 6 Grant Program; and imize barriers to cannabis licensing and employ- months before the beginning of each calendar ‘‘(2) perform such other functions as the As- ment for individuals adversely impacted by the year to which section 5901(a)(2) of the Internal sistant Attorney General for the Office of Jus- War on Drugs, provided that each grantee in- Revenue Code of 1986 (as added by this section) tice Programs may delegate, that are consistent cludes in its cannabis licensing program at least applies, the Secretary of the Treasury, or the with the statutory obligations of this section.’’. four of the following: Secretary’s delegate, shall make publicly avail- (2) COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT GRANT PRO- GRAM.—Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control (A) A waiver of cannabis license application able a detailed description of the methodology fees for individuals who have had an income which the Secretary anticipates using to deter- and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following: below 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Level mine the applicable rate per ounce and the ap- for at least 5 of the past 10 years who are first- ‘‘PART OO—COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT plicable rate per gram which will apply for such time applicants. calendar year under section 5901(c)(2) of such GRANT PROGRAM (B) A prohibition on the denial of a cannabis Code. ‘‘SEC. 3052. AUTHORIZATION. license based on a conviction for a cannabis of- (e) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Director of the Can- fense that took place prior to State legalization (1) Section 6103(o)(1)(A) of the Internal Rev- nabis Justice Office shall establish and carry of cannabis or the date of enactment of this Act, enue Code of 1986 is amended by striking ‘‘and out a grant program, known as the ‘Community as appropriate. firearms’’ and inserting ‘‘firearms, and cannabis Reinvestment Grant Program’, to provide eligi- (C) A prohibition on criminal conviction re- products’’. ble entities with funds to administer services for strictions for licensing except with respect to a (2) The table of chapters for subtitle E of such individuals adversely impacted by the War on conviction related to owning and operating a Code is amended by adding at the end the fol- Drugs, including— business. lowing new item: ‘‘(1) job training; (D) A prohibition on cannabis license holders ‘‘CHAPTER 56. CANNABIS PRODUCTS’’. ‘‘(2) reentry services; engaging in suspicionless cannabis drug testing of their prospective or current employees, except (3) The table of sections for subchapter A of ‘‘(3) legal aid for civil and criminal cases, in- with respect to drug testing for safety-sensitive chapter 98 of such Code is amended by adding cluding expungement of cannabis convictions; positions under part 40 of title 49, Code of Fed- at the end the following new item: ‘‘(4) literacy programs; ‘‘(5) youth recreation or mentoring programs; eral Regulations. ‘‘Sec. 9512. Opportunity Trust Tund.’’. and (E) The establishment of a cannabis licensing (f) EFFECTIVE DATE.— ‘‘(6) health education programs. board that is reflective of the racial, ethnic, eco- (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as otherwise provided ‘‘(b) SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER SERVICES.— nomic, and gender composition of the State or in this subsection, the amendments made by this The Director, in consultation with the Secretary locality, to serve as an oversight body of the eq- section shall apply to removals, and applica- of Health and Human Services, shall provide eli- uitable licensing program. tions for permits under section 5922 of the Inter- gible entities with funds to administer substance (3) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: nal Revenue Code of 1986 (as added by sub- use disorder services for individuals adversely (A) The term ‘‘individual adversely impacted section (b)), after 180 days after the date of the impacted by the War on Drugs or connect pa- by the War on Drugs’’ means an individual— enactment of this Act. tients with substance use disorder services. Also (i) who has had an income below 250 percent (2) ESTABLISHMENT OF TRUST FUND.—The eligible for such services are individuals who of the Federal Poverty Level for at least 5 of the amendment made by subsection (a) shall take ef- have been arrested for or convicted of the sale, past 10 years; and (ii) has been arrested for or convicted of the fect on the date of the enactment of this Act. possession, use, manufacture, or cultivation of a sale, possession, use, manufacture, or cultiva- SEC. 6. OPPORTUNITY TRUST FUND PROGRAMS. controlled substance other than cannabis (ex- tion of cannabis (except for a conviction involv- (a) CANNABIS JUSTICE OFFICE; COMMUNITY RE- cept for a conviction involving distribution to a ing distribution to a minor), or whose parent, INVESTMENT GRANT PROGRAM.— minor). sibling, spouse, or child has been arrested for or (1) CANNABIS JUSTICE OFFICE.—Part A of title ‘‘SEC. 3053. FUNDING FROM OPPORTUNITY TRUST convicted of such an offense. I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets FUND. (B) The term ‘‘eligible State or locality’’ Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10101 et seq.) is amended ‘‘The Director shall carry out the program means a State or locality that has taken steps by inserting after section 109 the following: under this part using funds made available to— ‘‘SEC. 110. CANNABIS JUSTICE OFFICE. under section 9512(c)(1) and (2) of the Internal (i) create an automatic process, at no cost to ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established Revenue Code. the individual, for the expungement, destruc- within the Office of Justice Programs a Can- ‘‘SEC. 3054. DEFINITIONS. tion, or sealing of criminal records for cannabis nabis Justice Office. ‘‘In this part: offenses; and ‘‘(b) DIRECTOR.—The Cannabis Justice Office ‘‘(1) The term ‘cannabis conviction’ means a (ii) eliminate violations or other penalties for shall be headed by a Director who shall be ap- conviction, or adjudication of juvenile delin- persons under parole, probation, pre-trial, or pointed by the Assistant Attorney General for quency, for a cannabis offense (as such term is other State or local criminal supervision for a the Office of Justice Programs. The Director defined in section 13 of the Marijuana Oppor- cannabis offense.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.001 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6826 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 (C) The term ‘‘State’’ means each of the sev- amended by adding at the end the following juana use as criteria for granting, denying, or eral States, the District of Columbia, Puerto new subsection: rescinding a security clearance. Rico, any territory or possession of the United ‘‘(p) SERVICES FOR CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITI- SEC. 9. NO ADVERSE EFFECT FOR PURPOSES OF States, and any Indian Tribe (as defined in sec- MATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.—A THE IMMIGRATION LAWS. tion 201 of Public Law 90–294 (25 U.S.C. 1301) women’s business center may not decline to pro- (a) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of the immi- (commonly known as the ‘‘Indian Civil Rights vide services to an otherwise eligible small busi- gration laws (as such term is defined in section Act of 1968’’)). ness concern under this section solely because 101 of the Immigration and Nationality Act), SEC. 7. AVAILABILITY OF SMALL BUSINESS AD- such concern is a cannabis-related legitimate cannabis may not be considered a controlled MINISTRATION PROGRAMS AND business or service provider.’’. substance, and an alien may not be denied any SERVICES TO CANNABIS-RELATED (d) SCORE.—Section 8(b)(1)(B) of the Small benefit or protection under the immigration laws LEGITIMATE BUSINESSES AND SERV- Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)(B)) is amended based on any event, including conduct, a find- ICE PROVIDERS. by adding at the end the following new sen- ing, an admission, addiction or abuse, an arrest, (a) DEFINITIONS RELATING TO CANNABIS-RE- tence: ‘‘The head of the SCORE program estab- a juvenile adjudication, or a conviction, relating LATED LEGITIMATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE lished under this subparagraph may not decline to cannabis, regardless of whether the event oc- PROVIDERS.—Section 3 of the Small Business Act to provide services to an otherwise eligible small curred before, on, or after the effective date of (15 U.S.C. 632) is amended by adding at the end business concern solely because such concern is this Act. the following new subsection: a cannabis-related legitimate business or service (b) CANNABIS DEFINED.—The term ‘‘can- ‘‘(ff) CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITIMATE BUSI- provider.’’. nabis’’— NESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.—In this Act: (e) VETERAN BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTERS.— (1) means all parts of the plant Cannabis ‘‘(1) CANNABIS.—The term ‘cannabis’— Section 32 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. sativa L., whether growing or not; the seeds ‘‘(A) means all parts of the plant Cannabis 657b) is amended by adding at the end the fol- thereof; the resin extracted from any part of sativa L., whether growing or not; the seeds lowing new subsection: such plant; and every compound, manufacture, thereof; the resin extracted from any part of ‘‘(h) SERVICES FOR CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITI- salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of such such plant; and every compound, manufacture, MATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.—A plant, its seeds or resin; and salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of such Veteran Business Outreach Center may not de- (2) does not include— plant, its seeds or resin; and cline to provide services to an otherwise eligible (A) hemp, as defined in section 297A of the ‘‘(B) does not include— small business concern under this section solely Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946; ‘‘(i) hemp, as defined in section 297A of the because such concern is a cannabis-related le- (B) the mature stalks of such plant, fiber pro- Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946; gitimate business or service provider.’’. duced from such stalks, oil or cake made from ‘‘(ii) the mature stalks of such plant, fiber (f) 7(A) LOANS.—Section 7(a) of the Small the seeds of such plant, any other compound, produced from such stalks, oil or cake made Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)) is amended by manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or prepa- from the seeds of such plant, any other com- adding at the end the following new paragraph: ration of such mature stalks (except the resin ‘‘(37) LOANS TO CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITI- pound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, extracted therefrom), fiber, oil, or cake, or the MATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.—The or preparation of such mature stalks (except the sterilized seed of such plant which is incapable Administrator may not decline to provide a resin extracted therefrom), fiber, oil, or cake, or of germination; or the sterilized seed of such plant which is in- guarantee for a loan under this subsection to an (C) any drug product approved under section capable of germination; or otherwise eligible small business concern solely 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic ‘‘(iii) any drug product approved under sec- because such concern is a cannabis-related le- Act, or biological product licensed under section tion 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cos- gitimate business or service provider.’’. 351 of the Public Health Service Act. (g) DISASTER LOANS.—Section 7(b) of the metic Act, or biological product licensed under (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS TO IMMIGRA- Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(b)) is amended section 351 of the Public Health Service Act. TION AND NATIONALITY ACT.—The Immigration by inserting after paragraph (15) the following ‘‘(2) CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITIMATE BUSI- and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) is new paragraph: NESS.—The term ‘cannabis-related legitimate amended— ‘‘(16) ASSISTANCE TO CANNABIS-RELATED LE- business’ means a manufacturer, producer, or (1) in section 212(h), by striking ‘‘and sub- GITIMATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.— any person or company that is a small business paragraph (A)(i)(II) of such subsection insofar The Administrator may not decline to provide concern and that— as it relates to a single offense of simple posses- assistance under this subsection to an otherwise ‘‘(A) engages in any activity described in sub- sion of 30 grams or less of marijuana’’; paragraph (B) pursuant to a law established by eligible borrower solely because such borrower is (2) in section 237(a)(2)(B)(i), by striking a State or a political subdivision of a State, as a cannabis-related legitimate business or service ‘‘other than a single offense involving posses- determined by such State or political sub-divi- provider.’’. sion for one’s own use of 30 grams or less of (h) MICROLOANS.—Section 7(m) of the Small sion; and marijuana’’; Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(m)) is amended by ‘‘(B) participates in any business or organized (3) in section 101(f)(3), by striking ‘‘(except as adding at the end the following new paragraph: activity that involves handling cannabis or can- such paragraph relates to a single offense of ‘‘(14) ASSISTANCE TO CANNABIS-RELATED LE- nabis products, including cultivating, pro- simple possession of 30 grams or less of mari- GITIMATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.— huana)’’; ducing, manufacturing, selling, transporting, An eligible intermediary may not decline to pro- (4) in section 244(c)(2)(A)(iii)(II) by striking displaying, dispensing, distributing, or pur- vide assistance under this subsection to an oth- ‘‘except for so much of such paragraph as re- chasing cannabis or cannabis products. erwise eligible borrower solely because such bor- lates to a single offense of simple possession of ‘‘(3) SERVICE PROVIDER.—The term ‘service rower is a cannabis-related legitimate business provider’— 30 grams or less of marijuana’’; or service provider.’’. (5) in section 245(h)(2)(B) by striking ‘‘(except ‘‘(A) means a business, organization, or other (i) STATE OR LOCAL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY for so much of such paragraph as related to a person that— LOANS.—Title V of the Small Business Invest- single offense of simple possession of 30 grams or ‘‘(i) sells goods or services to a cannabis-re- ment Act of 1958 (15 U.S.C. 695 et seq.) is amend- less of marijuana)’’; lated legitimate business; or ed by adding at the end the following new sec- (6) in section 210(c)(2)(B)(ii)(III) by striking ‘‘, ‘‘(ii) provides any business services, including tion: the sale or lease of real or any other property, except for so much of such paragraph as relates ‘‘SEC. 511. LOANS TO CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITI- to a single offense of simple possession of 30 legal or other licensed services, or any other an- MATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE cillary service, relating to cannabis; and PROVIDERS. grams or less of marihuana’’; and ‘‘(B) does not include a business, organiza- ‘‘The Administrator may not decline to pro- (7) in section 245A(d)(2)(B)(ii)(II) by striking tion, or other person that participates in any vide a guarantee for a loan under this title to ‘‘, except for so much of such paragraph as re- business or organized activity that involves han- an otherwise eligible State or local development lates to a single offense of simple possession of dling cannabis or cannabis products, including company solely because such State or local de- 30 grams or less of marihuana’’. cultivating, producing, manufacturing, selling, velopment company provides financing to an en- SEC. 10. RESENTENCING AND EXPUNGEMENT. transporting, displaying, dispensing, distrib- tity that is a cannabis-related legitimate busi- (a) EXPUNGEMENT OF NON-VIOLENT FEDERAL uting, or purchasing cannabis or cannabis prod- ness or service provider (as defined in section CANNABIS OFFENSE CONVICTIONS FOR INDIVID- ucts.’’. 3(ff) of the Small Business Act).’’. UALS NOT UNDER A CRIMINAL JUSTICE SEN- (b) SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTERS.— SEC. 8. NO DISCRIMINATION IN THE PROVISION TENCE.— Section 21(c) of the Small Business Act (15 OF A FEDERAL PUBLIC BENEFIT ON (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 1 year after U.S.C. 648(c)) is amended by adding at the end THE BASIS OF CANNABIS. the date of the enactment of this Act, each Fed- the following new paragraph: (a) IN GENERAL.—No person may be denied eral district shall conduct a comprehensive re- ‘‘(9) SERVICES FOR CANNABIS-RELATED LEGITI- any Federal public benefit (as such term is de- view and issue an order expunging each convic- MATE BUSINESSES AND SERVICE PROVIDERS.—A fined in section 401(c) of the Personal Responsi- tion or adjudication of juvenile delinquency for small business development center may not de- bility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act a non-violent Federal cannabis offense entered cline to provide services to an otherwise eligible of 1996 (8 U.S.C. 1611(c))) on the basis of any by each Federal court in the district before the small business concern under this section solely use or possession of cannabis, or on the basis of date of enactment of this Act and on or after because such concern is a cannabis-related le- a conviction or adjudication of juvenile delin- May 1, 1971. Each Federal court shall also issue gitimate business or service provider.’’. quency for a cannabis offense, by that person. an order expunging any arrests associated with (c) WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTERS.—Section 29 (b) SECURITY CLEARANCES.—Federal agencies each expunged conviction or adjudication of ju- of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 656) is may not use past or present cannabis or mari- venile delinquency.

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(2) NOTIFICATION.—To the extent practicable, that the individual is serving a term of proba- (5) Federal welfare assistance applications; each Federal district shall notify each indi- tion, parole, supervised release, imprisonment, (6) rate of arrests related to methamphetamine vidual whose arrest, conviction, or adjudication official detention, pre-release custody, or work possession; of delinquency has been expunged pursuant to release, pursuant to a sentence or disposition of (7) hospitalization rates related to meth- this subsection that their arrest, conviction, or juvenile delinquency imposed on or after the ef- amphetamine and narcotics use; adjudication of juvenile delinquency has been fective date of the Controlled Substances Act (8) uses of marijuana and its byproducts for expunged, and the effect of such expungement. (May 1, 1971). medical purposes; (3) RIGHT TO PETITION COURT FOR (f) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the (9) uses of marijuana and its byproducts for EXPUNGEMENT.—At any point after the date of United States, in consultation with the Sec- purposes relating to the health, including the enactment of this Act, any individual with a retary of Health and Human Services, shall con- mental health, of veterans; prior conviction or adjudication of juvenile de- duct a demographic study of individuals con- (10) arrest rates of individuals driving under linquency for a non-violent Federal cannabis of- victed of a Federal cannabis offense. Such study the influence or driving while intoxicated by fense, who is not under a criminal justice sen- shall include information about the age, race, marijuana; (11) traffic-related deaths and injuries where tence, may file a motion for expungement. If the ethnicity, sex, and gender identity of those indi- the driver is impaired by marijuana; expungement of such a conviction or adjudica- viduals, the type of community such users dwell (12) arrest of minors for marijuana-related tion of juvenile delinquency is required pursu- in, and such other demographic information as charges; ant to this Act, the court shall expunge the con- the Comptroller General determines should be (13) violent crime rates; viction or adjudication, and any associated ar- included. (14) school suspensions, expulsions, and law rests. If the individual is indigent, counsel shall (g) REPORT.—Not later than 2 years after the enforcement referrals that are marijuana-re- be appointed to represent the individual in any date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- lated; proceedings under this subsection. troller General of the United States shall report (15) high school dropout rates; (4) SEALED RECORD.—The court shall seal all to Congress the results of the study conducted (16) changes in district-wide and State-wide records related to a conviction or adjudication under subsection (f). standardized test scores; of juvenile delinquency that has been expunged SEC. 11. REFERENCES IN EXISTING LAW TO MARI- (17) marijuana-related hospital admissions under this subsection. Such records may only be JUANA OR MARIHUANA. and poison control calls; made available by further order of the court. Wherever, in the statutes of the United States (18) marijuana-related juvenile admittances (b) SENTENCING REVIEW FOR INDIVIDUALS or in the rulings, regulations, or interpretations into substance rehabilitation facilities and men- UNDER A CRIMINAL JUSTICE SENTENCE.— of various administrative bureaus and agencies tal health clinics; (1) IN GENERAL.—For any individual who is of the United States— (19) diversion of marijuana into neighboring under a criminal justice sentence for a non-vio- (1) there appears or may appear the term States and drug seizures in neighboring States; lent Federal cannabis offense, the court that im- ‘‘marihuana’’ or ‘‘marijuana’’, that term shall (20) marijuana plants grown on public lands posed the sentence shall, on motion of the indi- be struck and the term ‘‘cannabis’’ shall be in- in contravention to Federal and State laws; and vidual, the Director of the Bureau of Prisons, serted; and (21) court filings under a State’s organized the attorney for the Government, or the court, (2) there appears or may appear the term crime statutes. conduct a sentencing review hearing. If the in- ‘‘Marihuana’’ or ‘‘Marijuana’’, that term shall The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, dividual is indigent, counsel shall be appointed be struck and the term ‘‘Cannabis’’ shall be in- as amended, shall be debatable for 1 serted. to represent the individual in any sentencing re- hour equally divided among and con- view proceedings under this subsection. SEC. 12. SEVERABILITY. trolled by the chair and ranking minor- (2) POTENTIAL REDUCED RESENTENCING.—After If any provision of this Act or an amendment a sentencing hearing under paragraph (1), a made by this Act, or any application of such ity member of the Committee on the court shall— provision to any person or circumstance, is held Judiciary. (A) expunge each conviction or adjudication to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this The gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. of juvenile delinquency for a non-violent Fed- Act, the amendments made by this Act, and the JACKSON LEE) and the gentleman from eral cannabis offense entered by the court before application of this Act and the amendments Ohio (Mr. JORDAN) each will control 30 the date of enactment of this Act, and any asso- made by this Act to any other person or cir- minutes. ciated arrest; cumstance shall not be affected. The Chair recognizes the gentle- (B) vacate the existing sentence or disposition SEC. 13. CANNABIS OFFENSE DEFINED. of juvenile delinquency and, if applicable, im- woman from Texas. For purposes of this Act, the term ‘‘cannabis Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I pose any remaining sentence or disposition of offense’’ means a criminal offense related to juvenile delinquency on the individual as if this cannabis— yield myself such time as I may con- Act, and the amendments made by this Act, (1) that, under Federal law, is no longer pun- sume. were in effect at the time the offense was com- ishable pursuant to this Act or the amendments Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate and mitted; and made under this Act; or find relief in the opportunity to speak (C) order that all records related to a convic- (2) that, under State law, is no longer an of- on behalf of H.R. 3884, the Marijuana tion or adjudication of juvenile delinquency fense or that was designated a lesser offense or Opportunity Reinvestment and that has been expunged or a sentence or disposi- for which the penalty was reduced under State Expungement Act of 2020, or the MORE tion of juvenile delinquency that has been va- law pursuant to or following the adoption of a cated under this Act be sealed and only be made State law authorizing the sale or use of can- Act of 2020. available by further order of the court. nabis. I have great determination for the (c) EFFECT OF EXPUNGEMENT.—An individual SEC. 14. RULEMAKING. American people who, with a majority who has had an arrest, a conviction, or juvenile Unless otherwise provided in this Act, not of Democrats and Republicans, under- delinquency adjudication expunged under this later than 1 year after the date of enactment of stand the importance of the MORE section— this Act, the Department of the Treasury, the Act, and I believe it is important to (1) may treat the arrest, conviction, or adju- Department of Justice, and the Small Business pass a long overdue measure, and I en- dication as if it never occurred; and Administration shall issue or amend any rules, courage the rest of my colleagues to do (2) shall be immune from any civil or criminal standard operating procedures, and other legal penalties related to perjury, false swearing, or so as well. or policy guidance necessary to carry out imple- I don’t rise today to promote drug false statements, for a failure to disclose such mentation of this Act. After the 1-year period, arrest, conviction, or adjudication. any publicly issued sub-regulatory guidance, in- use. I don’t rise today to harm those (d) EXCEPTION.—An individual who at sen- cluding any compliance guides, manuals, young people who are in the beginning tencing received an aggravating role adjustment advisories and notices, may not be issued with- of their life. pursuant to United States Sentencing Guideline out 60-day notice to appropriate congressional I do not rise today to undermine law 3B1.1(a) in relation to a Federal cannabis of- committees. Notice shall include a description enforcement. In fact, in speaking to a fense conviction shall not be eligible for and justification for additional guidance. representative of the law enforcement expungement of that Federal cannabis offense SEC. 15. SOCIETAL IMPACT OF MARIJUANA LE- conviction under this section. community, detailing this legislation, GALIZATION STUDY. there was a great relief and under- (e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: The Comptroller General of the United States (1) The term ‘‘Federal cannabis offense’’ shall, not later than 2 years after the date of en- standing of the fairness and the justice means an offense that is no longer punishable actment of this Act, provide to Congress a study that would be rendered with the pas- pursuant to this Act or the amendments made that addresses the societal impact of the legal- sage of the MORE Act. under this Act. ization of recreational cannabis by States, in- It has taken us a long time to get (2) The term ‘‘expunge’’ means, with respect cluding— here, and I would like to take the op- to an arrest, a conviction, or a juvenile delin- (1) sick days reported to employers; portunity to thank all of those who quency adjudication, the removal of the record (2) workers compensations claims; have made it possible for us to consider of such arrest, conviction, or adjudication from (3) tax revenue remitted to States resulting each official index or public record. from legal marijuana sales; this bill today; in particular, my col- (3) The term ‘‘under a criminal justice sen- (4) changes in government spending related to league, our chairman on the House Ju- tence’’ means, with respect to an individual, enforcement actions and court proceedings; diciary Committee, the author of this

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.001 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6828 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 bill, Chairman JERRY NADLER. He has Latinx heritage, Hispanic heritage. over the course of five years would increase worked without ceasing on this legisla- What an imbalance. What a massive in- from five to eight percent. tion, as well as two very determined fusion of incarceration across this Na- The funds collected through this tax will be colleagues who have continued their tion. used to establish a trust fund to reinvest in advocacy, and they were particularly Thousands of men and women have communities ravaged by the War on Drugs instrumental in getting us here, Con- suffered needlessly from the Federal and in communities of color. gresswoman BARBARA LEE and Con- criminalization of marijuana, particu- The trust fund will be used for rehabilitation gressman EARL BLUMENAUER. larly in communities of color, and have and reentry programs in the Department of To summarize the provisions of the born the burden of collateral con- Justice and for programs in the Small Busi- MORE Act, they fall into two cat- sequences for those ensnared in the ness Administration to ensure that the bur- egories: First, simply, it would remove criminal legal system that have dam- geoning marijuana market is diverse and marijuana or cannabis from the list or aged our society across generations. opens up opportunities for entrepreneurship in schedule of Federally controlled sub- This is unacceptable, and we must communities that have been adversely im- stances. This means that, going for- change our laws. pacted by the War on Drugs. ward, individuals could no longer be It is time for Congress to catch up Finally, the bill would expunge and seal prosecuted federally for marijuana of- with the reforms that States have en- Federal marijuana convictions and resentence fenses. acted. It is time for Congress to catch offenders, as appropriate—a much-needed This does not mean that marijuana up with Americans. Thirty-six States, measure to try to undo the damage that has would now be legal in the entire United the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, been done to our communities since mari- States, as some have tried to argue. It and Guam have adopted laws allowing juana was arbitrarily placed on the list of con- would simply remove the Federal Gov- legal access to cannabis. Fifteen trolled substances, back in 1970. ernment from interfering with State States, the District of Columbia, and Mr. Speaker, thousands of men and women laws and State structures in the busi- the Northern Mariana Islands have have suffered needlessly from the federal ness of prosecuting marijuana cases adopted laws legalizing cannabis for criminalization of marijuana, particularly in and would leave the question of legal- adult recreational use. communities of color, and have born the bur- ity to the individual States. A total of 47 States have reformed den of the collateral consequences for those Those States choosing to decrimi- their laws in one form or another per- ensnared in the criminal legal system that nalize can do so without ongoing inter- taining to cannabis, despite its Federal have damaged our society across generations. ference from the Federal Government; criminalization. The racially disproportionate prosecution of and those States that choose to con- The State legal cannabis industry al- marijuana offenses is, in fact, a real problem tinue to make marijuana illegal can ready employs almost a quarter of a at the federal level, and is not just a problem continue to do so as well. million people, and the Federal Gov- at the state and local level. Second, the bill would establish a ernment needs to get out of the way of Data from the U.S. Sentencing Commission taxation structured to collect a sales State-level decisionmaking for their proves the prosecution of cannabis offenses at tax on marijuana which, over the citizens. the federal level disproportionately affects mi- course of 5 years, could increase from 5 We need to open the door to research, nority communities. to 8 percent. The funds collected better banking, and tax laws. We need According to the U.S. Sentencing Commis- through this tax will be used to estab- to help fuel economic growth in this in- sion, about 84 percent of the more than 2,000 lish a trust to do good, to reinvest in dustry. We need to save lives. We need marijuana offenders who were federally sen- communities ravaged by the war on to help young people. We need to bring tenced in 2018 were people of color. drugs. I know it firsthand, by living our Nation together. Only 11 percent were white, even though and growing up in those communities, And we need to do this without con- more than 60 percent of the U.S. population is those communities of color and those tinuing to spend Federal resources on white. communities beyond. criminalization and unjust incarcer- This is unacceptable and we much change What I would also say is it would ation for marijuana offenses. our laws. bring banking a relief. Businesses who We need to pass the MORE Act. It is time for Congress to catch up with the ultimately will come from this legisla- That is why I support it, and that is times and the reforms that states are enacting. tion, legally, will have the legal right why I believe it is important for us to Thirty-six states, the District of Columbia, and opportunity to secure legal bank- unify and support this bill today. And I Puerto Rico, and Guam have adopted laws al- ing relationships. The trust fund will ask my colleagues to do the same. lowing legal access to cannabis. be used for rehabilitation and re-entry Mr. Speaker, as a cosponsor of the legisla- Fifteen states, the District of Columbia, and programs in the Department of Justice tion and a senior member of the Judiciary the Northern Mariana Islands have adopted and for programs in the Small Business Committee, and its Subcommittee on Crime, laws for legalizing cannabis for adult rec- Administration to ensure that the Homeland Security, and Terrorism, I rise in reational use. growing marijuana market is diverse strong support of H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana A total of 47 States have reformed their and opens up opportunities for entre- Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement laws in one form or another pertaining to can- preneurship in communities that have Act of 2020,’’ or ‘‘MORE Act of 2020.’’ nabis, despite its Federal criminalization. been adversely impacted by the war on I support this legislation because it accom- Mr. Speaker, the State legal-cannabis indus- drugs. plishes three very important things. try already employs almost a quarter of a mil- In the last week, in my community, First, it removes marijuana, or cannabis, lion people and the federal government needs a bright, young individual was killed from the list—or the schedule—of Federally to get out of the way of state-level decision because of marijuana, marijuana sales. controlled substances. making for their citizens. A bright light, yes, was extinguished in This means that, going forward, individuals We need to open the door to research, bet- a minute with violence. This is what could no longer be prosecuted, federally, for ter banking and tax laws, and we need to help we want to see eliminated. We want a marijuana offenses. fuel economic growth in this industry. government structure that saves lives. To be clear, this does not mean that mari- And we need to do this without continuing to Finally, the bill would expunge and juana would now be legal in the entire United spend federal resources on criminalization and seal Federal marijuana arrests and States—it would simply remove the Federal unjust incarceration for marijuana offenses. convictions and resentence offenders as government from the business of prosecuting In short, Congress needs to pass the MORE appropriate, a much-needed measure to marijuana cases and would leave the question Act. try to undo the damage that has been of legality to the individual States. Mr. Speaker, I will address briefly why cer- done to our communities since mari- States choosing to decriminalize can do so, tain objections raised against the bill lack merit juana was arbitrarily placed on the list without ongoing interference from the Federal and should be disregarded. of controlled substances back in 1970. government, and those states that choose to Some opponents propose merely re-sched- The numbers are staggering but, continue to make marijuana illegal can con- uling marijuana (instead of descheduling it most of all, the numbers are staggering tinue to do so, as well. completely). with the imbalance of prosecution of Second, the bill sets up a taxation structure I oppose rescheduling marijuana to a lower African Americans and people of to collect a sales tax on marijuana, which, schedule, such as Schedule III, because that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.006 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6829 would only benefit industry, as cannabis-re- In the past several years, Congress has un- Finally, I would appreciate your response lated businesses could start receiving tax dertaken significant efforts to address the in- to this letter confirming our understanding breaks that would be prohibited if cannabis re- justices inherent in our system of criminal jus- regarding H.R. 3884 and would ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this mat- mained scheduled under Schedules I or II. tice. ter be included in the Committee Report and Rescheduling marijuana would do absolutely Criminal justice reform has been a bipar- the Congressional Record during floor con- nothing to address the problem of enforce- tisan pursuit. sideration of the measure. Thank you for the ment of marijuana laws. Expungement is a critical component of any cooperative spirit in which you have worked The Controlled Substances Act does not legislation seeking to address the disparities in regarding this matter and others between distinguish among the different schedules for our criminal justice system. our respective committees. purposes of enforcement and this amendment This is especially true in the context of mari- Sincerely, ´ does not even touch the penalties associated juana arrests, prosecutions, and convictions, NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ, Chairwoman. with marijuana—including draconian manda- which disproportionately affect tory minimums. overcriminalized communities of color. Keeping marijuana on the schedule of con- These are the communities that today con- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, trolled substances at all will only continue to tinue to suffer most from the consequences of COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, exacerbate disparities in the criminal justice Washington, DC, July 13, 2020. our failed drug policies. ´ system and further entrench the issues cur- Hon. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ, There are two different kinds of Chairwoman, Committee on Small Business, rently presented by federal marijuana prohibi- expungement processes established by the House of Representatives, Washington, DC. tion, VA doctors will continue to be prohibited MORE Act. ´ from prescribing medical marijuana for suf- DEAR CHAIRWOMAN VELAZQUEZ: I am writ- For those individuals who are in prison on a ing to you concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Mari- fering veterans, and federal employees will still marijuana conviction or still under some form juana Opportunity Reinvestment and be subjected to random workplace drug test- of federal court supervision, expungement Expungement Act of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act ing for off-the-job marijuana consumption. takes place by way of resentencing, under the of 2019’’). You wrote me a letter concerning Next, let me address the misconception that watch of a federal judge who will reevaluate this legislation on February 19, 2020. decriminalization of marijuana at the federal whether, based on the person’s conviction or I appreciate your willingness to work coop- level will lead to an increase in crime. convictions, it is appropriate to expunge or re- eratively on this legislation. I recognize that In fact, there is every reason to believe it calculate his or her sentence. the bill contains provisions that fall within would be the exact opposite. For those individuals who have completely the jurisdiction of the Committee on Small Studies show that: finished serving their sentences and are no Business. I acknowledge that your Com- 1. Laws allowing adult use of marijuana are mittee will not formally consider H.R. 3884 longer under court supervision, expungement not associated with an uptick in overall crimi- and agree that the inaction of your Com- would help give them a fresh start—again, nal activity. mittee with respect to the bill does not 2. Medical cannabis regulatory laws are not consistent with the principles of criminal justice waive any future jurisdictional claim over associated with an uptick in overall criminal reform we have espoused in a bipartisan man- the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall activity. ner. within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- 3. Retail cannabis facilities are not positively The collateral consequences suffered by tion. associated with increased criminality and may those with marijuana convictions are numer- I will ensure that our exchange of letters is play a role in the prevention of certain crimes ous and vast and they are the direct result of included in the Congressional Record during such as larceny. the unfair and unwise placement of marijuana floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate There is no need to anticipate that federal on Schedule I. your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work with descheduling of marijuana will lead to more We can help undo the harm by expunging federal marijuana convictions in the manner you as this measure moves through the legis- crime; states will still be allowed to leave in lative process. place their criminal laws and regulations re- set forth in the MORE Act. Sincerely, lated to marijuana, if they desire. Mr. Speaker, in voting to pass the MORE JERROLD NADLER, Mr. Speaker, what is now largely a cash Act, this body will promoting public health and Chairman. business will finally have access to banking, safety and delivering restorative justice. which will reduce the potential that lawfully I urge all Members to join me in voting to HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, compliant businesses become targets for pass H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana Opportunity COMMITTEE ON OVERSIGHT AND REFORM, crime. Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2020.’’ Washington, DC, September 21, 2020. In fact, for this very reason, decriminalizing Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Hon. JERROLD NADLER, marijuana at the federal level will enhance my time. Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, public safety. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Additionally, Mr. Speaker, veterans con- COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS, DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: I am writing to sume marijuana at rates far higher than the Washington, DC, February 19, 2020. you concerning H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Op- general population, and many vets report sub- Hon. JERROLD NADLER, portunity Reinvestment and Expungement Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, stituting alcohol and prescription drugs with Act of 2019. There are certain provisions in House of Representatives, Washington, DC. the legislation which fall within the Rule X medicinal marijuana. DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: I am writing to jurisdiction of the Committee on Oversight Veterans often report using cannabis to you concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana and Reform. treat symptoms of chronic pain and mood dis- Opportunity Reinvestment and orders, like post-traumatic stress. In fact, mari- Expungement Act of 2019.’’ Thank you for In the interest of permitting your Com- consulting with the Committee on Small mittee to proceed expeditiously on this bill, juana used for medical purposes can help vet- I am willing to waive this Committee’s right erans ease their reliance on prescription and Business regarding the matters in H.R. 3884 that fall within the Committee’s jurisdic- to sequential referral. I do so with the under- non-prescription opioids for pain relief. standing that by waiving consideration of And the clinical data support the use of can- tion. As a result of your consultation with us on the bill, the Committee on Oversight and Re- nabis treatment for these indications. this measure and in order to expeditiously form does not waive any future jurisdic- Descheduling will allow VA doctors to pre- move the bill to the floor, I forego further tional claim over the subject matters con- scribe marijuana without fear of punishment, consideration of H.R. 3884. The Committee tained in the bill which fall within its Rule and it will allow the choice to be with doctors on Small Business takes this action with our X jurisdiction. I request that you urge the and patients, where it belongs. mutual understanding that we do not waive Speaker to name Members of this Committee Descheduling marijuana, as this bill would any jurisdiction over the subject matter con- to any conference committee which is named to consider such provisions. do, will greatly benefit our veterans. tained in this or similar legislation, and the Let me discuss briefly the expungement pro- Committee will be appropriately consulted Please place this letter into the Congres- visions in the legislation. and involved as the bill or similar legislation sional Record during consideration of the The expungement provisions relate only to moves forward so that we may address any measure on the House floor. Thank you for remaining issues that fall within our juris- the cooperative spirit in which you have marijuana offenses, which are not per se vio- diction. Further, I request your support for worked regarding this matter and others be- lent offenses. the appointment of an appropriate number of tween our respective Committees. Punishment for other offenses committed si- conferees from the Committee on Small Sincerely, multaneously (or, for that matter, at any other Business during any House-Senate con- CAROLYN B. MALONEY, time) would remain in place. ference involving this or similar legislation. Chairwoman.

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HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, and agree that the inaction of your Com- you as this measure moves through the legis- COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, mittee with respect to the bill does not lative process. Washington, DC, September 21, 2020. waive any future jurisdictional claim over Sincerely, Hon. CAROLYN B. MALONEY, the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall JERROLD NADLER, Chairwoman, Committee on Oversight and Re- within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- Chairman. form, House of Representatives, Wash- tion. ington, DC. I will ensure that our exchange of letters is COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, DEAR CHAIRWOMAN MALONEY: I am writing included in the Congressional Record during HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, to you concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate Washington, DC, November 27, 2020. Opportunity Reinvestment and your cooperation regarding this legislation Hon. JERROLD NADLER, Expungement Act of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act and look forward to continuing to work with Chairman, Committee on Judiciary, of 2019’’). you as this measure moves through the legis- Washington, DC. I appreciate your willingness to work coop- lative process DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: In recognition of eratively on this legislation. I recognize that Sincerely, the desire to expedite consideration of H.R. the bill contains provisions that fall within JERROLD NADLER, 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvest- the jurisdiction of the Committee on Over- Chairman. ment and Expungement Act of 2019, the Com- sight and Reform. I acknowledge that your mittee on Ways and Means agrees to waive Committee will not formally consider H.R. formal consideration of the bill as to provi- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, 3884 and agree that the inaction of your sions that fall within the rule X jurisdiction COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION AND LABOR, Committee with respect to the bill does not of the Committee on Ways and Means. Washington, DC, November 24, 2020. waive any future jurisdictional claim over The Committee on Ways and Means takes Hon. JERROLD L. NADLER, the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall this action with the mutual understanding Chairman, House Committee on the Judiciary, within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- that we do not waive any jurisdiction over House of Representatives, Washington, DC. tion. the subject matter contained in this or simi- I will ensure that our exchange of letters is DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: I write con- lar legislation, and the Committee will be included in the Congressional Record during cerning H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Oppor- appropriately consulted and involved as the floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate tunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act bill or similar legislation moves forward so your cooperation regarding this legislation of 2019. This bill was primarily referred to that we may address any remaining issues and look forward to continuing to work with the Committee on the Judiciary, and addi- within our jurisdiction. The Committee also you as this measure moves through the legis- tionally to the Committee on Education and reserves the right to seek appointment of an lative process. Labor. As a result of Leadership and the appropriate number of conferees to any Sincerely, Committee on Judiciary having consulted House-Senate conference involving this or similar legislation. JERROLD NADLER, with me concerning this bill generally, I Finally, I would appreciate your response Chairman. agree to forgo formal consideration of the bill so the bill may proceed expeditiously to to this letter confirming this understanding and would ask that a copy of our exchange of HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, the House floor. letter on this matter be included in the Con- COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, The Committee on Education and Labor gressional Record during floor consideration Washington, DC, November 17, 2020. takes this action with our mutual under- of H.R. 3884. Hon. JERROLD NADLER, standing that by forgoing formal consider- Sincerely, Chair, Committee on the Judiciary, ation of H.R. 3884, we do not waive any juris- RICHARD E. NEAL, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. diction over the subject matter contained in Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means. DEAR CHAIR NADLER: In recognition of the this or similar legislation, and we will be ap- goal of expediting consideration of H.R. 3884, propriately consulted and involved as the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, the ‘‘Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment bill or similar legislation moves forward so COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, and Expungement Act of 2019,’’ the Com- we may address any remaining issues within Washington, DC, November 30, 2020. mittee on Natural Resources agrees to waive our Rule X jurisdiction. I also request that Hon. RICHARD NEAL, formal consideration of the bill as to provi- you support my request to name members of Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, sions that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction the Committee on Education and Labor to House of Representatives, Washington, DC. of the Committee on Natural Resources. any conference committee to consider such DEAR CHAIRMAN NEAL: I am writing to you The Committee on Natural Resources provisions. concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana Oppor- takes this action with the mutual under- Finally, I would appreciate a response con- tunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act standing that, in doing so, we do not waive firming this understanding and ask that a of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act of 2019’’). any jurisdiction over the subject matter con- copy of our exchange of letters on this mat- I appreciate your willingness to work coop- tained in this or similar legislation, and that ter be included in the committee report for eratively on this legislation. I recognize that the Committee will be appropriately con- H.R. 3884 or in the Congressional Record dur- the bill contains provisions that fall within sulted and involved as the bill or similar leg- ing floor consideration thereof. the jurisdiction of the Committee on Ways islation moves forward so that we may ad- Sincerely, and Means. I acknowledge that your Com- dress any remaining issues within our juris- ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT, mittee will not formally consider H.R. 3884 diction. Our Committee also reserves the Chairman. and agree that the inaction of your Com- right to seek appointment of conferees to mittee with respect to the bill does not any House-Senate conference involving this HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, waive any future jurisdictional claim over or similar legislation. COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall Thank you for agreeing to include our ex- Washington, DC, November 24, 2020. within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- change of letters in the Congressional Hon. BOBBY SCOTT, tion. Record. I appreciate your cooperation re- Chairman, House Committee on Education and I will ensure that our exchange of letters is garding this legislation and look forward to Labor, Washington, DC. included in the Congressional Record during continuing to work with you as this measure floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate DEAR CHAIRMAN SCOTT: I am writing to you moves through the legislative process. concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana Oppor- your cooperation regarding this legislation Sincerely, tunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act and look forward to continuing to work with RAU´ L M. GRIJALVA, of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act of 2019’’). you as this measure moves through the legis- Chair, House Natural Resources Committee. lative process. I appreciate your willingness to work coop- Sincerely, eratively on this legislation. I recognize that HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, JERROLD NADLER, the bill contains provisions that fall within COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, Chairman. Washington, DC, November 18, 2020. the jurisdiction of the Committee on Edu- cation and Labor. I acknowledge that your Hon. RAU´ L M. GRIJALVA, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Committee will not formally consider H.R. Chairman Committee on Natural Resources, COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. 3884 and agree that the inaction of your Washington, DC, November 30, 2020. Committee with respect to the bill does not DEAR CHAIRMAN GRIJALVA: I am writing to Hon. JERROLD NADLER, you concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana waive any future jurisdictional claim over Chair, Committee on Judiciary, Opportunity Reinvestment and Expunge- the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall Washington, DC. ment Act of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act of 2019’’). within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- DEAR CHAIRMAN NADLER: I write con- I appreciate your willingness to work coop- tion. cerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana Oppor- eratively on this legislation. I recognize that I will ensure that our exchange of letters is tunity Reinvestment and Expungemnent Act the bill contains provisions that fall within included in the Congressional Record during of 2019,’’ which was additionally referred to the jurisdiction of the Committee on Natural floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Resources. I acknowledge that your Com- your cooperation regarding this legislation In recognition of the desire to expedite mittee will not formally consider H.R. 3884 and look forward to continuing to work with consideration of H.R. 3884, the Committee on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.005 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6831 Energy and Commerce agrees to waive for- rious health risks associated with the The criminalization of marijuana was mal consideration of the bill as to provisions use of marijuana in adolescence and in used to disenfranchise an entire gen- that fall within the rule X jurisdiction of the pregnancy. eration of Black men and women. The Committee on Energy and Commerce. The The bill fails to set any standards to Committee takes this action with the mu- MORE Act is an important step for- tual understanding that we do not waive any prevent marijuana, THC concentrates, ward toward more enlightened policy. I jurisdiction over the subject matter con- vaping products, or edibles from get- am proud to vote in favor of this bill, tained in this or similar legislation, and that ting into the hands of teenagers and and I encourage my colleagues to do the Committee will be appropriately con- young adults whose brains are still de- the same. sulted and involved as this bill or similar veloping. Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 legislation moves forward so that we may The MORE Act doesn’t help prevent minutes to the gentleman from Florida address any remaining issues within our ju- the distribution of marijuana to mi- (Mr. GAETZ). risdiction. I also request that you support nors. It disrespects States’ rights, fails Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, I thank the my request to name members of the Com- to prevent violence and the use of fire- mittee on Energy and Commerce to any con- gentleman for yielding. ference committee to consider such provi- arms in growing and distributing mari- The MORE Act is flawed. It uses can- sions. juana and, lastly, it allows for the po- nabis policy to do a great deal of social Finally, I would appreciate the inclusion of tential of marijuana revenue to fund engineering to create new taxes and this letter into the Congressional Record criminal organizations, gangs, or car- new programs and redistribution of as- during floor consideration of H.R. 3884. tels. sets. Sincerely, I have been to the border and have But I am here as the only Republican FRANK PALLONE, JR., personally seen what smuggling oper- Chairman. cosponsor of the MORE Act, and I am ations this legislation might allow. voting for it because the Federal Gov- Yes, legalizing weed would create HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ernment has lied to the people of this revenue from taxes, but at what cost? COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, country about marijuana for a genera- Do we then start legalizing cocaine? Washington, DC. December 1, 2020. tion. Hon. FRANK PALLONE, JR., Marijuana is a gateway drug; make no mistake about that. It undoubtedly We have seen a generation, particu- Chairman, Committee on Energy and Commerce, larly of Black and Brown youth, locked House of Representatives, Washington, DC. leads to further and much more dan- DEAR CHAIRMAN PALLONE: I am writing to gerous drug use. up for offenses that should not have re- you concerning H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana And while I do believe that medical sulted in any incarceration whatso- Opportunity Reinvestment and marijuana can have some activity in ever. Expungement Act of 2019’’ (the ‘‘MORE Act chronic pain or those with cancer, this I am also deeply troubled by the cur- of 2019’’). bill simply goes way too far. I will vote rent policy of the Federal Government I appreciate your willingness to work coop- that inhibits research into cannabis, eratively on this legislation. I recognize that against it on the House floor, and I the bill contains provisions that fall within urge my colleagues to do the same. research that could unlock cures and the jurisdiction of the Committee on Energy GENERAL LEAVE help people live better lives. and Commerce. I acknowledge that your Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I My Republican colleagues today will Committee will not formally consider H.R. ask unanimous consent that all Mem- make a number of arguments against 3884 and agree that the inaction of your this bill, but those arguments are over- Committee with respect to the bill does not bers may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their re- whelmingly losing with the American waive any future jurisdictional claim over people. In every State where cannabis the matters contained in H.R. 3884 which fall marks and insert extraneous material within your Committee’s Rule X jurisdic- on H.R. 3884. reform was on the ballot in this coun- tion. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there try, it passed. It passed with over- I will ensure that our exchange of letters is objection to the request of the gentle- whelming support. included in the Congressional Record during woman from Texas? As a matter of fact, the only thing floor consideration of the bill. I appreciate There was no objection. that I know that is more popular than your cooperation regarding this legislation Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I getting out of the war on drugs is get- and look forward to continuing to work with ting out of the war in Afghanistan. But you as this measure moves through the legis- yield myself such time as I may con- lative process sume. if we were measuring the success in the Sincerely, Mr. Speaker, marijuana is not a gate- war on drugs, it would be hard to con- JERROLD NADLER, way drug. There is ample scientific evi- clude anything other than the fact that Chairman. dence demonstrating that the use of drugs have won because the American Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 marijuana does not cause the use of people do not support the policies of in- minutes to the gentleman from the other illicit substances. And according carceration, limited research, limited State of North Carolina (Mr. MURPHY), to the National Institute on Drug choice, and particularly constraining the good doctor. Abuse, the majority of people who are medical application. marijuana users do not go on to use Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. b 0930 Speaker, I rise today in opposition of other, harder substances. H.R. 3884, the Marijuana Opportunity The bill does not have any provision We are here in a time when many Reinvestment and Expungement Act. to sell marijuana to children. people in our country are suffering. As a practicing physician for over 30 Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to yield They are in pain. It is documented that years, this bill deeply troubles me, es- 1 minute to the gentleman from Geor- States with medical cannabis programs pecially with its researched implica- gia (Mr. JOHNSON), a distinguished see a reduction in the prescribing of tions for our youth population. member of the House Judiciary Com- opioids and in the number of opioid Marijuana is one of the most abused mittee. abuses and deaths. We have held hear- substances on this planet. And I will Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- ings in the House Judiciary Committee say, I am sympathetic to those who use er, I rise in support of the MORE Act. where people in our government must marijuana for pain relief; I really am. The war on drugs targeting commu- confess that this is, in fact, true, that It has been clinically proven to have nities of color, primarily, has resulted the more we give people access to med- activity in this area. in the advent of the prison industrial ical cannabis programs, the more we That said: A July 2020 study from the complex that has fed on and consumed see a blunting of this horrible scourge National Library of Medicine con- the lives of countless individuals and of opioid addiction and opioid abuse. cluded that the THC component of can- families. Too many Black and Brown We talk all the time on the right nabis can be the main culprit in psy- children in our country have grown up about the need to empower people and chosis and schizophrenia. A 2018 study without a parent because of govern- empower States. Right now, the Fed- from Duke University, in fact, showed ment-sponsored crony capitalism eral policy on cannabis constrains our a five-time increase in psychosis which saw profits and policies that put people. It limits our States. I would among chronic cannabis users. people in prison rather than dealing only hope that in the 117th Congress, The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Je- with drug abuse as a public health after this bill invariably dies in the rome Adams, agreed that there are se- issue. Senate, we will actually come back and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.015 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6832 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 pass the STATES Act because it ac- Mr. Speaker, I was all over the State violent criminals. In an environment knowledges that we have screwed this of Ohio in the recent campaign. I was where violent crime is up, where our up in the Federal Government. all over the country. I was in Georgia, Democrat mayors are defunding their While we have screwed it up, States Florida, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and police and taking cops off the street, have taken action. They have designed Texas, all over the place. Not once— they want to release criminals early programs in the way that our great not once—did an American citizen and, oh, your tax dollars pay for it. Mr. Federal system promises. If we were to come up to me and say: Do you know Speaker, that is what they want to do. pass the STATES Act, then best prac- what? The first thing I hope the Con- Now they say: Oh, by the way, it is tices would emerge, States that devel- gress does after this election, the first not just enough that your tax dollars oped applicable programs for their peo- major piece of legislation I hope the go to States to release criminals early ple would be replicable, and we would Congress takes up after this election is in that environment when they are see better policies. to legalize marijuana. defunding the police and violent crime I am going to vote for the MORE Act. Not once did that happen. is up, we also want you to pay for the It won’t pass the Senate and it won’t But this bill does more than that. marijuana industry. become law, but then we should come This bill says it is not enough just to You have got to be kidding me, Mr. back in the 117th Congress, and we legalize marijuana. They want tax- Speaker. You have got to be kidding should truly do more for our people. payers to pay for it. This bill sets up a me. They started the week off having a Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I grant program. This is the marijuana hearing on paying States to release yield myself such time as I may con- business infrastructure bill. It sets up criminals out of our jails, and now they sume. an office in the Department of Jus- are going to end the week by saying Mr. Speaker, let me first thank the tice—a special office in the Depart- that taxpayers pay for the marijuana gentleman from Florida for making ment of Justice—for the marijuana in- industry. this a bipartisan bill. I thank him for dustry. Grant dollars, taxpayer dollars This is crazy. This is exactly what they want to do. Think about this for a his insight, and I know that we will are going to this industry. have many opportunities to work to- I didn’t have anyone tell me: Do you second, Mr. Speaker. Think about a small business owner. Let’s just pick gether. know what? I hope the first big bill the Portland. A small business owner in I might add, if we pass the MORE Democrats do after this session is to Portland, who paid their local taxes, Act, we will allow veterans, hospitals, give my tax dollars to the marijuana who this summer had their business de- and doctors to be engaged in research industry. stroyed because Democrat leaders in to help our returning soldiers and vet- That is exactly what has happened that city would not protect their busi- erans who are suffering from a variety here. But, frankly, this shouldn’t sur- ness, now Democrats in Congress are of diseases that may be impacted by prise us. Think about what the Demo- saying: Oh, we want your Federal tax marijuana use. crats did earlier this week. Their first dollars to be used to release criminals Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the big hearing—actually, their first hear- early and to buttress the marijuana in- gentleman from New York (Mr. ing—since the election in the Judiciary dustry. JEFFRIES), a distinguished member of Committee was Wednesday in the Such a deal for the taxpayer. That is the Judiciary Committee and chair of Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Secu- what the Democrats have prioritized the Democratic Caucus. rity Subcommittee. It was a hearing this week in the United States Con- Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, I thank about letting criminals out of prison gress. It is ridiculous. the distinguished gentlewoman from early because of the COVID issue—let- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Texas for yielding. ting criminals out early in an environ- my time. The failed war on drugs first began ment where violent crime is increas- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I almost 50 years ago, when Richard ing. yield myself such time as I may con- Nixon declared drug abuse public We know that, this summer, aggra- sume. enemy number one. At the time there vated assaults are up 14 percent and Mr. Speaker, it is interesting my were less than 200,000 people incarcer- homicides are up 53 percent. Democrat good friend has been in different places ated in America. Today, there are 2.3 mayors and city councils around the than we have been in the House Judici- million, disproportionately Black and country in our major urban areas in ary Committee, but he remains my Latino. Many of those who have been that environment are defunding the po- good friend. incarcerated over the years were im- lice. So in that overall environment Obviously, our hearing this week was prisoned for nonviolent drug offenses, where homicides are up, aggravated as- on the devastation of COVID–19 in the including possession of marijuana. saults are up, and there are less cops Nation’s Federal prisons, lives that are The United States incarcerates more on the street, they want to release lost and lives that could be lost if people than any other country in the criminals early. strong structures are not put in place. world. We have ruined lives, families, I want to read from a letter that Mr. That is our job. and communities. It is a stain on our NADLER and Congresswoman BASS sent I think the other point that should be democracy. to the Attorney General back in made is that we will be made safer by The possession of marijuana is done March: this legislation. I can’t explain to him in equal, if not greater, numbers by We urge you to use every tool at your dis- the life that I have led, the neighbor- White Americans when compared to posal to release as many prisoners as pos- hood that I lived in, the amazing loss Black Americans. Yet in community sible to protect from COVID–19. of young lives over marijuana because after community after community, They go on to further to state—and it was illegal. As we watched not only Blacks and Latinos make up approxi- this is the part that is scary: the life lost in bloodshed, but the life mately 75 to 80 percent of the arrests What you do with individuals who are high lost in incarceration—imbalanced in- and prosecutions. risk of contracting COVID–19, who are not in carceration, huge sentences—the loss How can that be? low- or minimum-security facilities, who of opportunity, of college, of housing, Marijuana use is either socially ac- have been convicted of serious offenses, we and of jobs. ceptable behavior or it is criminal con- urge you to consider that even these individ- We are crying out for relief. Interest- duct, but it can’t be socially acceptable uals in these categories be assessed for re- ingly enough, two out of three Ameri- behavior in some neighborhoods and lease. cans say marijuana should be legal, in- criminal conduct in other neighbor- Mr. Speaker, so even the most vio- cluding a majority of both Democrats hoods when the dividing line is race. lent criminals they were looking at and Republicans. That is why we must pass the MORE and they were encouraging the Attor- Finally, the taxation is on those who Act, decriminalize marijuana in Amer- ney General to release on our streets. use marijuana. It is not on the small ica, and bring to light the principle of Oh, and just like with this marijuana business person, it is on those who use liberty and justice for all. bill, they want your tax dollars to pay and buy marijuana. So I hope that we Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield for a grant program to the States to re- can move forward on what the Amer- myself such time as I may consume. lease criminals early—even the most ican people want us to do.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.009 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6833 Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Again, just to read from the letter crats would rather prioritize criminals. gentleman from Rhode Island (Mr. that the chairman of the Judiciary A North Carolina sheriff recently CICILLINE), who is a distinguished Committee sent to the Attorney Gen- called drug driving ‘‘one of the leading member of the House Judiciary Com- eral of the United States on March 30, killers in our State.’’ Just like Demo- mittee. 2020, he says. . . . who have been convicted crats’ efforts to defund police, the Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, wars of serious offenses or who have high pattern MORE Act’s unintended consequences are costly, and the war on marijuana is risk scores, we urge you to consider that will include increased danger for our no exception. This war has derailed even these individuals in these categories be families. lives. It has led to lost jobs and hous- assessed for release. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ing. It has torn families apart. The cost I don’t know how you can say it any support Americans’ safety by voting of the war on marijuana has dispropor- plainer, Mr. Speaker. These are some of against this bill. tionately fallen on the backs of Blacks the most dangerous people in our Fed- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, and Latino people. eral prison system. They wanted the may I inquire how much time is re- As White entrepreneurs across the Attorney General to look at releasing maining. country support their families by run- them into the public. That is how they The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- ning businesses selling marijuana, started the week. They are going to tlewoman from Texas has 17 minutes many Black and Latino people are end the week by decriminalizing mari- remaining. The gentleman from Ohio spending time behind bars and juana and giving American tax dollars has 17 minutes remaining, also. criminalized for doing the same. to businessowners to further the mari- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, let In Rhode Island, a Black person was juana industry. me indicate that this legislation does 3.3 times more likely to be arrested for Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the not take away any of the responsibil- possessing marijuana than a White per- gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. ities of the Department of Transpor- son in 2018, even though Black and BISHOP). tation in its regulatory authority, and White people use marijuana at similar Mr. BISHOP of North Carolina. Mr. the facts belie any worries regarding rates. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for road safety. Immigrants have been deported sim- yielding. According to a 2018 study of the Na- ply for using marijuana in States that Mr. Speaker, the gentlewoman from tional Bureau of Economic Research, permit its use and despite never being Texas’ comment that the MORE Act States that have legalized marijuana convicted of a crime. would make us safer calls for a specific have not experienced significantly dif- Targeting low-level marijuana-re- response. ferent rates of marijuana- or alcohol- lated offenders with harsh penalties As Representative JORDAN just said, has done little to make our commu- related traffic fatalities. the fact that the MORE Act is on the All of the State laws dealing with nities safer. The MORE Act ends the floor at this time epitomizes Demo- driving under the influence remain. Op- criminalization of marijuana. It pro- crats’ misplaced priorities. But it also tects the 36 States, including Rhode Is- erating a motor vehicle under the in- puts on display their inclination to land, that have led the way on mari- fluence of marijuana is still illegal in juana policy and legalized it for medic- reckless disregard of consequences. every State—we insist on that—and inal purposes. Just like the clarion call to defund even in these States that have legal- People convicted of marijuana-re- the police, followed rapidly by aston- ized the substance, and the MORE Act lated charges are often denied access to ished surprise over the ensuing surge in leaves these in place. social programs or even the ability to violence, Democrats’ rush to legalize Mr. Speaker, we need to talk about take out student loans to further their marijuana without any heed or re- the many deaths that have occurred education and careers. The MORE Act sponse to the rising epidemic of drug because of the violence over illegal helps fix that. driving across the country would mean marijuana. I have seen it. We have seen This legislation redirects resources more dead and injured Americans on it. We have lost lives in their future, away from prosecution of marijuana our highways. and we have lost them to their fami- and toward community investments Consider this: since 2013, in Wash- lies. and public health solutions. It estab- ington State, the number of fatal crash Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the lishes an opportunity trust fund that drivers who tested positive for THC has distinguished gentleman from Cali- provides resources for those who have more than doubled. In Vermont, since fornia (Mr. CORREA), a member of the marijuana-related convictions, includ- 2010, fatal crashes linked to marijuana Committee on the Judiciary. ing job training and substance abuse use have skyrocketed by 173 percent Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I thank treatment. It moves us closer toward following that State’s decriminaliza- the gentlewoman for leading. I thank racial equity by allowing expungement tion. Forty-seven percent of Orego- Chairman NADLER for his leadership in of nonviolent marijuana convictions. nians who died in a car crash in 2018 this issue and thank him, also, for in- The MORE Act provides restorative tested positive for marijuana, accord- cluding my amendment that calls for a justice by providing SBA loans to as- ing to the Oregon State Police. More study of cannabis as an alternative sist small businesses, especially small Indiana drivers in deadly car crashes medicine for our veterans. businesses controlled by socially and test positive for drugs than for alcohol. More than half of all Americans live economically disadvantaged people. The data is clear: when governments in a State where cannabis is legal. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman NAD- liberalize marijuana laws, motorists Let’s align Federal cannabis laws with LER for his leadership and for intro- and passengers die. the will of the people. And let’s take full advantage of the ducing the MORE Act. I am proud to be b 0945 a cosponsor, and I urge my colleagues medical benefits of cannabis. We know to vote in support of this historic legis- Law enforcement tells us they lack a that medical cannabis is good for treat- lation. reliable roadside test to detect mari- ing things such as seizures, glaucoma, Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield juana use or a uniform standard to chronic pain, and PTSD, and veterans myself such time as I may consume. measure marijuana toxicity, yet our prefer cannabis over opioids. Mr. Speaker, I would just point out defund-the-police Democrat colleagues Let me repeat. Veterans prefer can- the American Medical Association put rush to change the status quo across nabis over opioids to treat the invisible out a letter 2 days ago saying they op- the entire country while refusing even wounds that they bring back from the pose this legislation for the reasons to consider my commonsense amend- battlefield. that Dr. Murphy highlighted in his ment that would require the Depart- Other nations, like Israel, export opening remarks. ment of Transportation to develop and cannabis products. Let’s unleash Amer- I would also just, again, point out prescribe best practices for testing ica’s free enterprise system to take full what the Democrats on the Judiciary drivers suspected of marijuana impair- advantage of the commercial benefits Committee did on Wednesday. It was ment. of cannabis. about releasing criminals from prisons My amendment would help law en- Let’s get busy and do the will of the early. forcement keep people safe, but Demo- people. Let’s pass the MORE Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.010 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6834 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Ms. DEAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my Mr. Speaker, my friends on the other minutes to the gentleman from Ari- dear colleague. side of the aisle like to point out that zona (Mr. BIGGS). Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. they have passed the Heroes Act, so Mr. BIGGS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the 3884, the MORE Act. they claim they have done their part. gentleman from Ohio for yielding. I Since the war on drugs began, the The Heroes Act was filled with so many will talk about what I view as a mas- Nation’s prison population increased partisan wish-list items that it was sive confusion in this bill. from 300,000 to a staggering 2.2 million embarrassing. We have heard arguments this morn- people behind bars. In the decade be- In fact, Speaker PELOSI is so obsessed ing, already, that States are regulating tween 2001 and 2010, 8.2 million people with pushing drug legalization efforts this, and I believe, ultimately, that is were arrested on marijuana charges. forward, she even puts provisions in where this regulation, domestically, Nearly 90 percent of those arrests were the Heroes Act—if you can believe should be: within the States. for simply having marijuana. this—a new annual study on diversity Mr. Speaker, this bill ostensibly de- Most troubling is the fact that, de- and inclusion within the marijuana in- regulating cannabis imposes a Federal spite equal use rates, Black Americans dustry. tax, Federal agencies, Federal over- are four times more likely than White Come on, man. Families are losing sight. You are not de-federalizing mari- Americans to be arrested for mari- their livelihood. People are hurting. juana; you are just changing the regu- juana. Mr. Speaker, Speaker PELOSI’s an- latory structure in which you control People of color have disproportion- swers to these families is: ‘‘It is out of marijuana. That is interesting to me, ately borne the burdens of these draco- our hands.’’ and I find it very disingenuous in some nian policies, facing longer prison sen- It is not out of our hands. We have ways. tences and the lifetime economic con- the responsibility and opportunity to Mr. Speaker, what it also does is it sequences of having a criminal record. provide relief to the American people. obviates Congress’ constitutional obli- Generations of Black and Hispanic We have the power to do better and gation to manage or oversee interstate communities have suffered—families work harder and be better than this. commerce. That is what this bill does. ripped apart, businesses shuddered, It is time we think about the real It obviates that, while you are throw- educations unfinished. This is neither needs of our constituents and get back ing a Federal tax on all these folks. law nor order; it is injustice. That is a bit of a problem, but it goes to work on legislation that matters. Mr. Speaker, we have an opportunity to an enhanced problem. As long as we Our priority should not be legalizing here to right our wrongs. The MORE have the massive and growing social drugs or banning tigers; it must be bi- Act is a sweeping effort for equity to welfare state that we have today, we partisan, targeted COVID–19 relief. our criminal justice system by remov- will incur whatever detriment comes Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, ing marijuana from the Controlled from the criminalization, nationally, may I inquire how much time each side Substances Act and requiring Federal of marijuana. has remaining. We must, in my opinion, have a seri- courts to expunge prior convictions. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- ous discussion on this and not a con- The bill goes a long way to reduce ra- tlewoman from Texas has 131⁄2 minutes geries, a bill that is a congeries, a cial disparities that plague our crimi- remaining. The gentleman from Ohio mishmash of ideas and hopes instead of nal justice system. Marijuana reform is has 11 minutes remaining. data-driven science. long overdue. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, As the gentleman from North Caro- Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- you know what I am most—how should lina just iterated to us, it is a problem. woman for bringing the bill forward. I say it?—honestly grateful for in the If you have prosecuted or defended— Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 backdrop of Thanksgiving? That we and I did both, and I defended for many minutes to the gentleman from Min- had a Speaker of the House who never years. My specialty, the area that I fo- nesota (Mr. STAUBER), a former police stopped negotiating and trying to find cused on, was drunk and drug driving officer who has seen firsthand what relief for the dying Americans and cases. It is a problem, and it is exacer- drugs can do to individuals and to com- those suffering from COVID–19 with a bated by the decriminalization and munities. major infusion of dollars almost 8 legitimization of marijuana use in the Mr. STAUBER. Mr. Speaker, Mike’s months ago. I am grateful for that. States. Western Cafe, a family-run diner for 38 I am grateful that we are now in the This bill does not address that appro- years, closed its doors in Duluth, Min- midst, if you will—late, but engaging— priately. This bill does not do anything nesota, for good on October 7. of negotiations, and that we are com- more than provide a different mish- On October 25, Waters of Superior, an mitted not to leave this place, not to mash of Federal laws over marijuana art gallery and boutique, went out of go home for any holidays before we regulation. business. provide relief for the American people. I am hoping for a serious dialogue On the 27th of last month, Grandma’s I am grateful for that. That is going to sometime about an issue. in the Park Bar and Grill, a local wa- happen. Mr. Speaker, I have to just close by tering hole in Hibbing, Minnesota, was So it is important to note that work saying this. When I heard someone say forced to call it quits. is going on, led by our Speaker, and we that all the States that have passed And after 10 years in business, the hope that we will have the right part- this have done so overwhelmingly, Ari- Duluth Candy Company is closing up ner to be able to save the lives of the zona rejected it three times before shop for good on December 31. American people who are now suffering barely passing it this time—barely These are just a few stories of so from COVID–19. The MORE Act also passing it this time—and that is an many real people, real small business saves lives. election that is being contested even owners in my district who are losing Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the right now in the courts. their livelihoods due to effects of the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I COVID–19 closures. Yet here we are LEE), distinguished member of the would hope my good friend would not today, with mere days left in the year Committee on Appropriations and one be in opposition to the ability for there to get something done for the Amer- of the strongest advocates for the to be research on the use of marijuana, ican people who are suffering, and MORE Act to save lives, to help young as well substance abuse, and as well to Speaker PELOSI has brought up a drug people. provide a healing and a restoration of legalization bill as mom-and-pop shops these broken communities that have close for good, as families remain un- b 1000 suffered the plague of marijuana ar- certain where their next paycheck is Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, rests, incarceration, and prosecution. coming from, as children struggle to let me reemphasize what the gentle- That is what we are doing in the MORE receive their education, and as woman just said. I was so proud to vote Act. childcare facilities close. As seniors re- for the Heroes Act twice nearly 8 Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the main isolated from their families, this months ago. I think that we have to gentlewoman from Pennsylvania (Ms. is their solution: a drug legalization move forward and continue to nego- DEAN). bill. tiate, and, hopefully, we will get some

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.012 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6835 votes on the other side of the aisle to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The talk about, you know, we shouldn’t be help save lives and to help save busi- time of the gentlewoman has expired. dealing with things like this because nesses and to help our economic recov- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I the time is not right. His voters just ery. But I was proud to have voted for yield an additional 30 seconds to the approved medical marijuana, one of that twice already. gentlewoman from California (Ms. five States that approved it. Arizona Thank you to Congresswoman JACK- LEE). didn’t barely pass it; it was 60 percent. SON LEE for her tremendous leadership Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, We are not rushing to legalize mari- in bringing this bill to the floor, the Black and Brown people are targeted juana; the American people have al- Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment more frequently than White Ameri- ready done that. We are here because and Expungement Act, the MORE Act. cans, despite equal rates of use. Congress has failed to deal with the Let me thank Chairman NADLER and Additionally, prison sentences for disastrous war on drugs and do its part our fellow co-chair of the Cannabis Black and Brown people are more like- for the over 50 million regular mari- Caucus, Congressman EARL BLU- ly to be lengthier than White people. juana users in every one of your dis- MENAUER, our respective staffs, and ev- Black men receive sentences over 13 tricts. eryone for their effort, including the percent longer than White men, and We are here because we failed the House Judiciary staff, for your hard nearly 80 percent of people in Federal parents of babies with extreme seizure work and for helping to bring this bill prisons for drug offenses are Black or disorders and why 10 States have together to the floor. Latino. So it is time to end these un- stepped up, because the only thing that Also, I have to call your attention to just laws which shatter the lives of so stops those babies from being tortured the advocates for their dedication to many young people of color. is medical cannabis. That is why 10 educating the public on this issue. This I tell you, colleagues, we have got to states have approved provisions like bill is an important racial justice give our young people a second chance. that. measure. It is the product of years of So please vote ‘‘yes’’ on this bill to We are here because Congress has work by so many activists and advo- help us move our unfinished business of failed to deal with our veterans, whose cates and young people, and it is long liberty and justice for all forward. We wounds, seen and unseen, will give overdue. have got to begin to really provide ra- them opioids, but we don’t deal with Yes, I have worked to end the war on cial justice, crack these chains of sys- giving them access to something, as drugs for many years. The MORE Act temic racism and this mass incarcer- Representative CORREA pointed out, includes my legislation, the Marijuana ation judicial system. dealing with medical cannabis, which Justice Act and the REFER Act, which Mr. Speaker, I urge an ‘‘aye’’ vote. is safer than the opioids we give them, are the first marijuana racial justice Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 and they suffer opioid deaths at a high- bills introduced in Congress. minutes to the gentleman from Mis- er rate than the general population. We are here because Congress has This landmark legislation would end sissippi (Mr. PALAZZO). failed with research. We want to have a the Federal prohibition and decrimi- Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, yester- test for impairment. The 150,000 drivers nalize cannabis nationwide by remov- day was big cats. Today it is big can- for beer and wine wholesalers want to ing it from the list of controlled sub- nabis. When is it time for real COVID be able to test. But Congress has stood stances, which is a major step, mind relief? When is it time for us to help in the way of research. There is plenty you, a major step toward ending the our constituents, our small businesses, of money; we don’t have the authority unjust war on drugs and racial inequi- our struggling and exhausted frontline to do it. ties which are central to these laws. workers, and teachers? Speaking of small business, we are This bill will facilitate expungement To legalize marijuana or not is one here because the Senate has failed to of low-level Federal cannabis convic- thing; to pass a bill that has no re- follow through on a $17 billion industry tions, create pathways for lucrative course for States that don’t want mass that doesn’t have access to financial legal cannabis business ownership op- legalization, which totals 35 states, is services. It is an invitation to money portunities for communities of color, irresponsible. To not limit or regulate laundering, to theft, to tax evasion, for and provide critical resources for those potency is carelessness. To not do any- an industry that is pitched by my most devastated by the war on drugs, thing to regulate advertising, which friend’s fellow Ohioan John Boehner, for restorative justice to repair this proved to be an issue with vaping when who is now a spokesman for the indus- damage. the industry targeted kids and teens, is try. I refer you to the letter by the chair negligent. To not provide funding for I have worked on this issue for 47 of our Ways and Means Committee, Mr. the FDA or USDA to manage the regu- years. I, too, have traveled the coun- RICHARD NEAL, and I would just like to latory framework is reckless. try. I have never met an American who read a portion of his statement as it re- Take marijuana out of the scenario. feels that this industry should pay its lates to a Ways and Means tax issue, None of us would support a reckless, taxes with shopping bags full of $20 which Mr. BLUMENAUER is going to dis- negligent, careless, and irresponsible bills. cuss a little further. bill. We are here because we have failed Mr. NEAL has addressed an issue that This flawed legislation is not time our children. Children in each of your came to our attention as an exclusion sensitive, does not require consider- districts can get a joint easier than in this measure and made a commit- ation this week, and should not take they can get a six-pack of beer, because ment, and he says that he looks for- priority over the very serious and real no neighborhood drug dealer checks for ward to continuing to work with the issues facing our country. ID. They don’t have a license to lose. measure’s sponsors and other commit- There are real external threats facing That is why we want to have a system tees of jurisdiction to achieve an effec- our Nation. We should focus on that regulates, to protect our children. tive tax regime that supports a vibrant strengthening America and not weak- Right now, kids are not protected. legal market and provides individuals ening it. There is a lot to be done be- They are victims to a black market most affected by this war on drugs the fore the end of the year, and Congress that you allow to continue. opportunity to fully participate in this must be focused on rebuilding our We are here because we have failed emerging economy. economy and restoring our way of life. three generations of Black and Brown I want to thank the chair of the Ways Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to young people, whose lives can be ruined and Means Committee for agreeing to vote against this bill. or lost by selective enforcement of help us fix several provisions of this Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I these laws. This legislation will end important bill. yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from that disaster. Make no mistake: This is a major ra- Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER), one of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cial justice bill. According to the determined and strong advocates for time of the gentleman has expired. ACLU, Black Americans are nearly this legislation, a distinguished mem- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I four times more likely to be arrested ber of the Ways and Means Committee. yield an additional 30 seconds to the for cannabis-related crimes than White Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I gentleman from Oregon (Mr. BLU- Americans. just heard my friend from Mississippi MENAUER).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.014 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6836 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, it warnings and puts our children in dan- where they could actually help defray is time for Congress to step up and do ger. I call on my colleagues to vote the costs associated with the Depart- its part. We need to catch up with the ‘‘no’’ on this irresponsible and dan- ment of the Treasury’s newly created rest of the American people. gerous bill. obligation to regulate marijuana grow- I want to thank Stephanie Phillips, Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I ers, importers, and retailers, the bill Tara Sulzen, Willie Smith, Julia Pom- yield myself such time as I may con- would actually divert tax revenue into eroy, Amber Ray, Laura Thrift, Jason sume. four brand-new government programs, Little, David Skillman, people who Mr. Speaker, let me just say that the including one to create subsidies for have been working with me on this for aggressive enforcement of marijuana businesses. a decade. possession laws needlessly ensnares This bill creates new criminal pen- I am proud that we are at this mo- hundreds of thousands of people into alties for failure to pay the taxes. So, ment, and I am proud that we are going the criminal justice system and wastes this isn’t criminal justice reform. It is to have an opportunity to approve the billions of taxpayer dollars. I can as- actually creating different types of MORE Act and for Congress to step up sure you that States are able to pro- penalties and criminalization and and do its job so we catch up to your tect our children, which we will discuss would likely lead to jail for small-time constituents. in a later moment. dealers for tax evasion instead of for Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the selling their product. minutes to the gentlewoman from Mis- gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Mr. Speaker, I don’t support the un- souri (Mrs. HARTZLER). VELA´ ZQUEZ), the chairwoman of the derlying purposes of this bill, the legal- Mrs. HARTZLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Small Business Committee. ization itself nationwide, but even if I today in opposition to the MORE Act, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise did, I can’t support the terribly flawed which legalizes marijuana across the in support of this legislation because it design, in terms of taxation, and the United States. As a mother and a former public will restore justice to our most overall form of this bill. Mr. Speaker, we have been waiting schoolteacher, I am appalled at this marginalized communities, and it will legislation’s disregard for the health boost our economy. for months for Democrats to get seri- and safety of our children, schools, and I thank Speaker PELOSI, Chairman ous about COVID relief, focusing on families. I am also shocked and ap- NADLER, and my fellow chairs, for safely reopening our economy and help- palled by the previous speaker’s claim bringing this legislation to the floor ing folks who need it the most. Yet, that this legislation is good for chil- today. The MORE Act takes meaning- here we are today, talking about a le- dren and using children as an excuse to ful action to address systemic injus- galization bill yet again. This is a bad pass this bill and legalize it across this tices by removing cannabis from its bill at the wrong time. I urge opposi- country. current classification as a schedule I tion. The MORE Act would grant the mari- drug and incentivizing States to ex- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, juana industry unfettered access to our punge low-level possession records. may I inquire as to the amount of time Nation’s youth by allowing the sale of As chair of the Small Business Com- remaining. edibles and flavored marijuana vapes mittee, I am proud to have championed The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- and permitting marijuana businesses measures included in the bill that will tlewoman from Texas has 4 minutes re- to be located within 1,000 feet of expand capital access and Federal maining. The gentleman from Ohio has 1 schools, daycares, private kinder- small business development resources 5 ⁄2 minutes remaining. gartens, public parks, and recreational to the cannabis sector. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I facilities. We cannot forget that while commu- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from The bill also opens the floodgates for nities of color have disproportionately Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS), a distin- advertising high potency and ex- suffered from the so-called war on guished member of the Ways and tremely dangerous products on TV and drugs, they have also been locked out Means Committee. social media, a place where our kids of traditional capital markets. That is Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. are spending countless hours every why the MORE Act is the best legisla- Speaker, I rise in support of the MORE day. tion to advance progress on this issue, Act, which allows the Federal Govern- We need to consider three critical and I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘yes’’. ment to begin to catch up with the 47 States, like Illinois, which have al- points before voting today: b 1015 First, research has shown that people ready reformed their marijuana use who use marijuana at a young age are Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 laws in one way or the other. more prone to addictive habits later in minutes to the gentleman from Ne- Mass incarceration, which dispropor- life as it activates the pleasure center braska (Mr. SMITH). tionately affects Black and Brown citi- receptors of the brain. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speak- zens, has been aided and abetted by Second, long-term marijuana use has er, I appreciate the time. marijuana laws, which result in more been linked by research to mental ill- Mr. Speaker, much of the debate we than 600,000 arrests annually. The ness such as hallucinations, temporary have heard today has been about crimi- expungement provisions in this legisla- paranoia, depression, suicidal nal justice and the child safety impli- tion will allow hundreds of thousands thoughts, violent behavior, and schizo- cations of this bill. But I would like to of individuals to get their records ex- phrenia. focus on the troubling aspect of this punged so that they can more enthu- And, third, these findings were seri- bill in the tax title. siastically pursue legitimate jobs and ous enough to lead the U.S. Surgeon This bill would create a new Federal work to take care of themselves and General to declare an advisory for tax on marijuana, starting at 5 percent their families. marijuana use, emphasizing that: ‘‘Re- in the first year and escalating to 8 The MORE Act is an idea whose time cent increases in access to marijuana percent after 5 years. We always hear has come. I urge that we vote ‘‘yes.’’ and in its potency, along with about tax parity in this Chamber, yet Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve misperceptions of safety of marijuana the treatment of these products com- the balance of my time. endanger our most precious resource, pared to tobacco are vastly different— Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I our Nation’s youth.’’ vastly different. yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman The House should be discussing a re- Let me say again, though, that this from New York (Mrs. CAROLYN B. sponsible COVID relief package to aid bill taxes marijuana, which has the po- MALONEY), the distinguished chair of the American people during the pan- tential to impact society really in un- the Oversight and Reform Committee. demic. Instead, my colleagues on the known ways or at least in ways that we Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New other side of the aisle are focusing on should all be concerned about, but at York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- legalizing marijuana. Where are our less than half the tax rate of a pack of woman for her leadership and for yield- priorities? cigarettes. ing. The MORE Act completely under- Once these taxes are created, rather Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the mines current research and health than treating them as general revenue MORE Act. I applaud my colleagues,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.015 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6837 Chairman NADLER and Vice President- they take after a national election. Go creates an opportunity trust fund that will in- elect HARRIS, for their leadership. It is figure. Maybe that is why they lost 27 crease opportunities or individuals and com- past time that Congress answers the out of 27 toss-up seats around the coun- munities affected by the war on drugs. The call for reform for low-level marijuana try. Maybe that is why our party al- opportunity trust fund will fund programs such conviction justice. most took back the majority. as job training, reentry services, and sub- This sweeping legislation would offi- That is what they choose to focus on stance abuse disorder services, as well as as- cially remove cannabis from the list of at a time when you have Democrat sistance to small businesses owned by so- federally controlled harmful sub- leaders around the country defunding cially and economically disadvantaged individ- stances, protect medical cannabis busi- the police, locking down businesses, de- uals. nesses, and expunge low-level mari- stroying small businesses all over our I thank my colleague, Representative BLU- juana convictions that have dispropor- Nation. This is what they choose to MENAUER, for his tireless leadership on this tionately harmed people and commu- focus on. This is what they choose to issue. As this bill continues through the legis- nities of color. focus on. lative process, I look forward to continuing to The MORE Act would also help those Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on work with the measure’s sponsors and the whose convictions are overturned the legislation, and I yield back the other committees of jurisdiction to achieve an through an opportunity trust fund that balance of my time. effective tax regime that supports a vibrant would provide job training, reentry as- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I legal market and provides individuals most af- sistance, and legal aid. If we are seri- yield myself the balance of my time. fected by the war on drugs the opportunity to Mr. Speaker, let me indicate very ous about criminal justice reform, we fully participate in this emerging economy. quickly that every 37 seconds, between need to get rid of the antiquated can- Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to 2001 and 2010, there were 8 million ar- nabis laws that disproportionately have introduced H.R. 3884, the ‘‘Marijuana rests, every 37 seconds, for marijuana. harm people of color. The MORE Act Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement We spent $3.6 billion on the war on would do just that. Act of 2020,’’ or the ‘‘MORE Act of 2020.’’ marijuana, and it has not worked. We Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote. This long overdue legislation would reverse Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve do today what saves lives. We know that States are going to be the failed policy of criminalizing marijuana on the balance of my time. able to continue to protect their chil- the federal level and would take steps to ad- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I dren, and this does not undermine the dress the heavy toll this policy has taken yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman ability of Congress to protect children across the country, particularly on commu- from Hawaii (Ms. GABBARD). as well. In every State that has legal- nities of color. Ms. GABBARD. Mr. Speaker, finally, ized marijuana, they have developed a The MORE Act would make three important this is a historic moment that so many comprehensive set of regulations to changes to federal law: here and across the country have been protect consumers. (1) remove marijuana, or cannabis, from the working toward, to take this step to We also recognize that this issue of list of federally controlled substances; end America’s destructive and costly vaping is not generated by marijuana (2) authorize the provision of resources, war on drugs that has turned everyday use. With a comprehensive structure, funded by an excise tax on marijuana, to ad- Americans into criminals and torn we will be able to protect children and dress the needs of communities that have families apart, ruining so many peo- not be selling marijuana to children. been seriously impacted by the War on Drugs, ple’s lives. Those who have died in our commu- including increasing the participation of com- This legislation removes cannabis nities may now live. As well, we will munities of color in the burgeoning cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, further understand the importance of a market; and frees States to regulate it as they structure that is about restoration of (3) provide for the expungement of Federal choose, and encourages research into justice. The imbalance against people marijuana convictions and arrests. the medicinal qualities of this plant of color has been a tragedy. For far too long, we have treated marijuana that we all already know are changing Mr. Speaker, the MORE Act is cru- as a criminal justice problem instead of as a people’s lives and saving people’s lives. cial to be able to pass, and I ask my matter of personal choice and public health. It also applies retroactively, expunging colleagues to do so vigorously as we Whatever one’s views are on the use of mari- prior convictions and records, freeing a also fight COVID–19. juana for recreational or medicinal use, the generation of people from the shackles Mr. Speaker, before I close, I would policy of arrests, prosecution, and incarcer- of this failed war on drugs. like to thank the following Members ation at the Federal level has proven unwise Mr. Speaker, the bottom line is this and committee and Member staff for and unjust. vote is about freedom. It is freedom of their outstanding work on the MORE This issue is not new to Congress. There choice for every American to make Act: Joe Graupensperger, Milagros have been many Members who have intro- their own decisions for themselves Cisneros, Christine Leonard, BARBARA duced bills upon which provisions in this bill without fear of the government coming LEE, EARL BLUMENAUER, NYDIA are based. For instance, Representative BAR- and arresting them. VELA´ ZQUEZ, and FRANK PALLONE. BARA LEE has sponsored bills that are the Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance foundation of key provisions of the MORE Act, support this bill. The Senate should of my time. and I thank her for her longstanding leader- pass it quickly so we can send it to the Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, today’s House Con- ship on this issue. Representative EARL BLU- President for his signature. sideration of the MORE Act marks an impor- MENAUER has also been an indefatigable advo- Mr. JORDAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield tant step in mitigating the impacts of the his- cate and has supported everything we have myself the balance of my time. torically racist war on drugs. This legislation done to get to where we are today. I thank Mr. Speaker, House Democrats start- will reform our federal criminal laws while also him, as well. ed the week off with a hearing on let- making investments in and empowering com- Federal action on this issue would follow the ting criminals out of jail early. They munities of color and those adversely affected growing recognition in the states that the sta- end the week with a bill legalizing by current unjust policies. tus quo is unacceptable. Despite the federal drugs. And they want the American The MORE Act makes important changes to government’s continuing criminalization of taxpayers to pay for both programs. federal law by removing marijuana, or can- marijuana, 36 states and the District of Colum- They introduced a bill earlier in the nabis, from the list of federally controlled sub- bia have legalized medical cannabis. Fifteen year to give grant dollars to States to stances. This change to federal law does not states and the District of Columbia have legal- let criminals out of jail early, even vio- undermine the ability of states to apply their ized cannabis for adult recreational use. lent ones, according to the letter Mr. criminal laws as they see fit. Instead it makes I have long believed that the criminalization NADLER and Chairwoman BASS sent to marijuana a federally regulated substance that of marijuana has been a mistake, and the ra- the Attorney General. Now, they want is subject to the FDA’s regulatory authority cially disparate enforcement of marijuana laws to create a trust fund in this bill to and federal taxation. The excise tax that is es- has only compounded this mistake, with seri- give grants to the marijuana industry tablished by the bill is similar to those for alco- ous consequences, particularly for commu- and finance the marijuana industry. hol and tobacco. nities of color. Mr. Speaker, these are the actions By creating a legal marijuana market that is Marijuana is one of the oldest agricultural the Democrats take, the first actions subject to federal taxation, this legislation also commodities not grown for food, and it has

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.017 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6838 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 been used medicinally all over the world since had on communities of color. The MORE Act historic moment for the millions of Americans at least 2700 B.C., but its criminalization is a recognizes this injustice and addresses these caught in the tentacles of the failed ‘‘war on relatively recent phenomenon. harmful effects by expunging and sealing fed- drugs’’. In the midst of growing national dia- The use of marijuana, which most likely eral convictions and arrests for marijuana of- logue on unjust law enforcement practices, the originated in Asia, later spread to Europe, and fenses. MORE Act first and foremost centers racial made its way to the Americas when the It is not surprising that over the past two justice and comprehensively addresses can- Jamestown settlers brought it with them decades, public support for legalizing mari- nabis prohibition. I am pleased that the MORE across the Atlantic. The cannabis plant has juana has surged. In the most recent Pew Re- Act has remained a critical component of been widely grown in the United States and search Center poll—which was released at the House Democrats’ plan for addressing sys- was used as a component in fabrics during end of 2019—67 percent of Americans now temic racism and advancing criminal justice the middle of the 19th century. During that back marijuana legalization, up from 62 per- reform. We owe it to the American people to time period, cannabis was also widely used as cent in Pew’s 2018 poll. And just this Novem- pass this bill and I strongly support this legis- a treatment for a multitude of ailments, includ- ber, there were ballot measures pertaining to lation. ing muscle spasms, headaches, cramps, asth- marijuana in several states; they were all ap- In 1970, Congress passed the Controlled ma, and diabetes. proved by voters. Indeed, the states have led Substances Act (CSA) to establish a com- It was only in the early part of the 20th cen- the way—and continue to lead the way—on prehensive federal drug policy. As part of that tury that marijuana began to be criminalized in marijuana, but our federal laws have not kept bill, Congress placed a broad range of drugs the United States—mainly because of misin- pace with the obvious need for change. We among five Schedules, based on the relative formation and hysteria, based at least in part need to catch up because the public supports harms of those drugs. Cannabis was placed— on racially-biased stereotypes connecting reform and because it is the right thing to do. temporarily, it seemed—in Schedule I, while a marijuana use and people of color, particularly In my view, applying criminal penalties, with commission studied the plant to make an in- African-Americans and Latinos. In 1970, when their attendant collateral consequences for formed recommendation about how it should President Nixon announced the War on Drugs marijuana offenses is unjust and harmful to be treated. Two years later, the commission and signed the Controlled Substances Act into our society. The MORE Act comprehensively recommended that marijuana be removed law, the federal government placed marijuana addresses this injustice, and I urge all of my from Schedule I of the Controlled Substances on Schedule I, the most restrictive schedule colleagues to support this bill today. Act. However, for the past 50 years, that rec- that is attached to the most serious criminal Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in ommendation has been ignored, resulting in a penalties, where—unfairly and unjustifiably—it strong support of the Marijuana Opportunity decades-long war on cannabis that has dam- has remained ever since. Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2019 aged tens of millions of American lives. As a consequence of this decision, thou- or the MORE Act. This landmark legislation is This racially motived policy has led to one of sands of individuals—overwhelmingly people long overdue. It will descheudule marijuana, the most shameful episodes in criminal justice of color—have been subjected, by the federal provide expungement for previous offenders, and race relations in America: the deliberate government, to unjust prison sentences for clarify that those previously convicted of mari- targeting of Black Americans for selective ap- marijuana offenses. It is time for this manifest juana related offenses would be eligible for plication of our cannabis laws. Too often, injustice to end. The MORE Act would remove federal benefits, and will establish an excise cases of low-level cannabis possession esca- marijuana from Schedule I and the Controlled tax system on marijuana to invest in commu- late to police violence, and Black Americans Substances Act altogether, thereby decrimi- nities disproportionately affected by our failed regularly face mistreatment at the hands of nalizing it at the Federal level. marijuana policy. police because of cannabis. This is only fair, particularly because the I have been working on this issue since I More than 99 percent of the American popu- same racial animus motivating the enactment was first elected to the Tennessee General lation will soon live in a state where cannabis of marijuana laws also led to racially dis- Assembly in 1982. In this Congress, I have is legally accessible to some degree yet ar- proportionate enforcement of such laws, which sponsored the CARERS Act to provide legal rests for cannabis possession continue in has had a substantial, negative impact on certainty for those using medicinal marijuana huge numbers. In 2018, the highest number of communities of color. In fact, nationwide, the allowed under state law and the Fresh Start arrests were for drug offenses, with cannabis communities that have been most harmed by Act which provides a pathway for arrests accounting for more drug arrests in the marijuana enforcement are benefitting the expungement for these types of offenses. U.S. than any other drug class. At almost least from the legal marijuana marketplace. The history of marijuana as a Schedule-I 700,000, police made more cannabis arrests The MORE Act would address some of drug is one full of bias and discrimination. This than all violent crimes combined. these negative impacts, by establishing an policy has served its racist purposes, targeting More concerning than the sheer number of Opportunity Trust Fund within the Department communities of color and disproportionately in- arrests, is the racially biased enforcement of of Treasury to fund programs within the De- carcerating people of color. cannabis laws that is so evident in the stark partment of Justice and the Small Business The War on Drugs has been a resounding disparity in arrest rates between Black and Administration to empower communities of failure, especially regarding cannabis. About white people for cannabis possession. Despite color and those adversely impacted by the 700,000 Americans each year are arrested for similar rates of use, on average, Black people War on Drugs. These programs would provide cannabis related offenses. Despite similar are almost four times more likely than white services to individuals, including job training, usage rates, there are nearly four Black Amer- people to be arrested for marijuana. This dif- reentry services and substance use disorder icans arrested for a cannabis-related offense ference can reach more than 20, 30, 40, or services; provide funds for loans to assist for every white American. In my district, the even 50 times at the county level. small businesses that are owned and con- situation is even worse. According to a 2013 People of color are often robbed of their dig- trolled by socially and economically disadvan- ACLU study, in Shelby County, 83.2 percent nity in perpetuity, because having a felony taged individuals; and provide resources for of people arrested for cannabis offenses were conviction can impact the ability to get an edu- programs that minimize barriers to marijuana Black, which the report cited as one of the cation, secure gainful employment, or vote. licensing and employment for individuals ad- highest county-level statistics in the nation. Ironically, as the emerging cannabis market versely impacted by the War on Drugs. These arrests and convictions have long term blossoms, the cards are frequently stacked The collateral consequences of a conviction impacts. Those with criminal records are lim- against the very people most victimized by the for marijuana possession—and even some- ited from receiving federal benefits including ‘‘war on drugs,’’ who now want to become en- times for a mere arrest—can be devastating. SNAP, housing benefits, and Pell Grants. Our trepreneurs in the legal cannabis market. After For those saddled with a criminal conviction, it policy is exactly backward. We should be sup- centuries of systemic discrimination in hous- can be difficult or impossible to vote, to obtain porting those susceptible to substance abuse, ing, employment, and education, Black Ameri- educational loans, to get a job, to maintain a not punishing them. cans are far less likely to have or be able to professional license, to secure housing, to re- This bill rights an historic wrong and invests raise the kind of money needed to get in- ceive government assistance, or even to adopt in the communities most harmed. I am proud volved in the legal market. Additionally, dis- a child. to be an original cosponsor of this bill. I thank proportionate arrest and conviction rates make These exclusions create an often-permanent Chairman NADLER for his leadership on this it particularly difficult for people of color to second-class status for millions of Americans. important issue. enter the legal cannabis marketplace, as most This is unacceptable and counterproductive, Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, this vote states bar these individuals from participating. especially in light of the disproportionate im- on the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment Minorities, and Black Americans specifically, pact that enforcement of marijuana laws has and Expungement (MORE) Act of 2020 is a are now largely missing out on the economic

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.007 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6839 opportunities created by legalization. Sadly, The bill was ordered to be engrossed b 1030 fewer than one-fifth of cannabis business own- and read a third time, and was read the My motion to recommit adds specific ers identify as minorities and only approxi- third time. language to the bill to affirm an em- mately four percent are Black. MOTION TO RECOMMIT ployer’s right to test job applicants The American people have recognized the Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I have a and employees to ensure workplace and need to reverse this tragic mistake. A recent motion to recommit at the desk. public safety. Gallup survey showed that more than two- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the Legalization of marijuana at the thirds of Americans believe that cannabis gentlewoman opposed to the bill? State level has already created com- should be legal. This groundswell of public Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, I am op- plex challenges for employers wishing support has translated into actual changes in posed to the bill in its current form. to maintain a drug-free workplace The SPEAKER pro tempore. The state law. We now have 15 states, plus the while abiding by relevant employment Clerk will report the motion to recom- District of Columbia, that have legalized can- laws. nabis for all adults. Moreover, there are 36 mit. The bill before us today, which de- The Clerk read as follows: states in which medical cannabis laws allow classifies marijuana as an illegal drug, patients to legally enjoy the benefits of the full Mrs. Lesko moves to recommit the bill H.R. 3884 to the Committee on the Judiciary would only further complicate employ- spectrum of the cannabis plant. Some states with instructions to report the same back to ers’ compliance obligations and liabil- and municipalities have taken proactive steps the House forthwith with the following ity risks and reduce workplace safety to mitigate inequalities in the legal cannabis amendment: around the country. marketplace and ensure equal participation in Add, at the end of section 3, the following: A last-minute Democrat amendment the emerging market. (h) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Notwith- added to H.R. 3884 recognizes the right The dichotomy between state and federal standing the provisions of this Act and the of the Federal Government to test its cannabis laws is the direct result of Congress amendments made by this Act, an employer may test an employee or applicant for can- employees and workers in safety-sen- ignoring the recommendations of experts near- nabis use to ensure workplace and public sitive positions covered by the Depart- ly 50 years ago. The emperors who made and safety. ment of Transportation regulations, have kept cannabis illegal at the federal level The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- such as pilots and railroad operators. were wearing no clothes—and the American ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from However, the bill omits the same pro- people have called it out. We are now embar- Arizona (Mrs. LESKO) is recognized for tections for private-sector employers rassing ourselves by sitting by and doing noth- 5 minutes in support of her motion. in other high-hazard industries not ing. This bill would not force states to make Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, in the covered by DOT regulations. cannabis legal. If a state like Idaho wants to middle of the COVID–19 pandemic, If we adopt this motion, we will ad- continue arresting people for cannabis, they House Democrats are rushing to pass a dress legal ambiguities that may arise will have that ability, as much as I may dis- sweeping marijuana legalization bill from removing marijuana from the agree with that decision. But by removing can- without considering the unintended Controlled Substances Act and affirm nabis from the CSA, which is what this bill will consequences the legislation will have private employers’ right to drug test do, we can remove this one tool of oppres- on workplace and public safety. employees in order to keep their work- sion. We can ensure that individuals who are According to the National Institute places and the public safe. acting in compliance with sensible state can- on Drug Abuse, studies have suggested This is not a gotcha moment. It is nabis laws will not be in violation of federal specific links between marijuana use not playing politics. My motion to re- law, while expanding cannabis research, and adverse consequences in the work- commit is a genuine attempt to im- broadening access to our veterans, and open- place, such as increased risk for inju- prove the bill. ing up banking opportunities. ries or accidents. Mr. Speaker, I urge its passage, and I No bill is perfect, and the MORE Act con- According to the Federal Govern- yield back the balance of my time. tains a provision that is contrary to our legisla- ment’s own workplace safety experts at Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I tive intent. Without hesitation, I am committed the National Institute for Occupational claim the time in opposition to the mo- to correcting this language to ensure that the Safety and Health, or NIOSH, other tion to recommit. millions of Americans, especially Black and studies of cannabis use have dem- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Latino people, who have been most harmed onstrated effects that include sedation, tleman from Oregon is recognized for 5 by cannabis prohibition can participate equally disorientation, impaired judgment, minutes. in this emerging industry. Equity, inclusion and lack of concentration, and slowed fine Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, opportunity are fundamental values that must motor skills. As my Democratic col- first and foremost, I would call my dis- be at the center of all federal cannabis legisla- leagues often say, we need to follow the tinguished friend from Arizona’s atten- tion. This is not the end of the story, it’s the science. tion—whose constituents just approved beginning of the next chapter. This is a fight Currently, it is common practice for legalization with a 60 percent margin— for racial justice, economic justice, and free- employers in industries such as con- to the Rules Committee Print, which dom. This policy is long-overdue. struction and warehouse logistics to includes new provisions to ensure that I have been working on this issue longer enact zero-tolerance drug policies that employees working in safety-sensitive than any other politician in America, and I am include a prohibition on marijuana transportation positions regulated by thrilled that we are here today. I want to thank usage to protect workers by ensuring a the Federal Government would still be Congresswoman BARBARA LEE and her staff, safe workplace and to comply with tested for illegal or unauthorized use of Samira Damavandi and Gregory Adams, who Federal law. Unlike on-demand evalua- alcohol, marijuana, or other sub- have worked tirelessly to advance racial jus- tions of alcohol usage, there currently stances. tice on this issue. I also want to thank the is no adequate real-time intoxication Now, to be clear, no one wants to many advocates, businesses, and individuals testing technology for marijuana im- have people who are in these sensitive who have helped us champion the end of can- pairment. positions to be operating equipment, nabis prohibition. Lastly, I want to thank my By removing marijuana from the list but there are several problems with the team both past and present: Willie Smith, of scheduled substances in the Con- gentlewoman’s position. Laura Thrift, Amber Ray, Danielle Cohen, trolled Substance Act, the underlying First and foremost, as I pointed out Sean Ryan, David Skillman, Stephanie Phil- bill will place unnecessary burdens on in the course of my presentation, be- lips, and Tara Sulzen. private employers and will needlessly cause the Federal Government inter- This is a momentous moment and I am jeopardize workplace and public safety feres with the research in cannabis, eager for the day this bill is signed into law. and health. and has for 50 years, there is no good The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time For instance, the removal of mari- test for impairment. for debate has expired. juana from the CSA creates legal jeop- Right now, I have heard from em- Pursuant to House Resolution 1244, ardy for employers who are authorized ployers across the country, who are the previous question is ordered on the under the Americans with Disabilities deeply concerned because as they test, bill, as amended. Act to test for illegal drug use while and there is a trace of marijuana in the The question is on the engrossment such authorization does not extend to system, it continues for 30 days; long and third reading of the bill. legal drugs. after there is any impairment. So we

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.021 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6840 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 are having people’s jobs jeopardized be- tion to suspend the rules and pass the Sherrill Swalwell (CA) Van Drew Simpson Takano Veasey cause we haven’t done the research bill (S. 2981) to reauthorize and amend Sires Taylor Vela that would allow us to have a good the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Slotkin Thompson (CA) Vela´ zquez test. Administration Commissioned Officer Smith (NJ) Thompson (MS) Visclosky The MORE Act, in the form that it is Corps Act of 2002, and for other pur- Smith (WA) Titus Waltz Smucker Tlaib Wasserman here, besides having the provisions poses, on which the yeas and nays were Soto Tonko Schultz that allow the testing to take place, ordered. Spanberger Torres (CA) Waters would strip away the Federal Govern- The Clerk read the title of the bill. Spano Torres Small Watson Coleman Speier (NM) Welch ment interference with the research so The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Stanton Trahan Wexton that we can have a test that takes question is on the motion offered by Stefanik Trone Wild place. the gentleman from Hawaii (Mr. CASE) Stevens Underwood Wilson (FL) Suozzi Upton Yarmuth It is important for employers to be that the House suspend the rules and able to have this test. Employers want pass the bill. NAYS—124 to be able to deal with their employees The vote was taken by electronic de- Amash Graves (MO) Pence fairly, and they don’t have a good test vice, and there were—yeas 265, nays Amodei Green (TN) Perry Armstrong Griffith Posey now. So people are losing their jobs. 124, not voting 41, as follows: They can’t fill other jobs because ap- Arrington Grothman Rice (SC) [Roll No. 233] Babin Guthrie Roe, David P. plicants fail drug tests. Baird Hagedorn Rogers (AL) It is not that we don’t test, the fact YEAS—265 Balderson Harris Rose, John W. Banks Hern, Kevin is we don’t have a good test. And the Adams Fortenberry Lynch Rouzer Barr Hice (GA) Aguilar Foster Malinowski Roy Federal prohibition on research stands Bergman Hill (AR) Allred Frankel Maloney, Scalise in the way of this. It is yet another ex- Biggs Hollingsworth Axne Gabbard Carolyn B. Bishop (NC) Hudson Schweikert ample of the failed prohibition on can- Barraga´ n Gallagher Maloney, Sean Bishop (UT) Johnson (OH) Sensenbrenner Bass Gallego Matsui nabis and its unintended consequences. Bost Johnson (SD) Shimkus Beatty Garamendi McAdams It prevents being able to make progress Brady Jordan Smith (MO) Bera Garcia (CA) McBath Brooks (AL) Joyce (PA) Smith (NE) to be able to have effective tests and Beyer Garcı´a (IL) McCaul Buck Keller Stauber use them where they are needed. Bilirakis Garcia (TX) McCollum Burchett Kelly (MS) Steil Bishop (GA) Golden McEachin My friends talk about people having Chabot Kelly (PA) Steube Blumenauer Gomez McGovern traces of marijuana in their system in Cheney Kinzinger Stivers Blunt Rochester Gonzalez (OH) McKinley Cline Kustoff (TN) terms of driving stops. There is no indi- Bonamici Gonzalez (TX) McNerney Thompson (PA) Cloud LaHood cation that just because there is a Boyle, Brendan Gottheimer Meeks Thornberry Comer LaMalfa F. Granger Meng Tiffany trace that that impaired their oper- Conaway Lamborn Brindisi Green, Al (TX) Mfume Timmons Crawford Latta ation. We don’t have the tests. Brown (MD) Grijalva Moore Tipton Crenshaw Lesko That is why we need the MORE Act. Brownley (CA) Guest Morelle Turner Curtis Long Buchanan Haaland Moulton Walberg That is why we need to reject the mo- Davidson (OH) Loudermilk Bustos Hall Mucarsel-Powell Walden tion to recommit. Unless and until we DesJarlais Lucas Butterfield Harder (CA) Murphy (FL) Walker Diaz-Balart Luetkemeyer do the research to be able to have ef- Byrne Hartzler Nadler Walorski Duncan Marshall fective tests to be able to deal with im- Carbajal Hastings Napolitano Watkins Emmer Massie Ca´ rdenas Hayes Neal pairment, we are just chasing our tails. Estes Mast Weber (TX) Carson (IN) Heck Neguse Ferguson McClintock Webster (FL) It doesn’t solve the problem, and it Cartwright Herrera Beutler Norcross Fleischmann Meuser Wenstrup avoids being able to take care of it. Case Higgins (NY) O’Halleran Flores Miller Westerman Casten (IL) Himes Ocasio-Cortez I strongly urge rejecting this motion Fulcher Moolenaar Williams Castor (FL) Horn, Kendra S. Omar to recommit, passing the MORE Act so Gaetz Mooney (WV) Wilson (SC) Castro (TX) Horsford Palazzo Gibbs Murphy (NC) Wittman we can do the research, have the tests Chu, Judy Houlahan Pallone Gohmert Newhouse Womack that employers and employees want Cicilline Hoyer Panetta Gooden Nunes Woodall Cisneros Huffman Pappas and deserve so we get out of this never- Gosar Olson Zeldin never land of speculation and be able to Clark (MA) Huizenga Pascrell Clarke (NY) Hurd (TX) Payne NOT VOTING—41 actually tell the circumstances and Cleaver Jackson Lee Perlmutter give people a guidance to be able to get Clyburn Jacobs Peters Abraham Dunn Mullin Aderholt Finkenauer the result that I think we all want. Cohen Jayapal Peterson Norman Cole Jeffries Phillips Allen Foxx (NC) Palmer Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Connolly Johnson (GA) Pingree Bacon Fudge Reschenthaler of my time. Cooper Johnson (TX) Pocan Brooks (IN) Gianforte Richmond The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Correa Joyce (OH) Porter Bucshon Graves (LA) Rooney (FL) Budd Higgins (LA) objection, the previous question is or- Costa Kaptur Pressley Scott, Austin Courtney Katko Price (NC) Burgess Holding Stewart Calvert Johnson (LA) dered on the motion to recommit. Cox (CA) Keating Quigley Vargas Carter (GA) King (IA) There was no objection. Craig Kelly (IL) Raskin Wagner Carter (TX) Marchant The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Crist Kennedy Reed Wright Crow Khanna Rice (NY) Clay McCarthy question is on the motion to recommit. Collins (GA) McHenry Yoho Cuellar Kildee Riggleman Young The question was taken; and the Cunningham Kilmer Roby Cook Mitchell Speaker pro tempore announced that Davids (KS) Kim Rodgers (WA) the noes appeared to have it. Davis (CA) Kind Rogers (KY) b 1129 Mrs. LESKO. Mr. Speaker, on that I Davis, Danny K. King (NY) Rose (NY) Davis, Rodney Kirkpatrick Rouda Messrs. CHABOT, TIPTON, SMITH of demand the yeas and nays. Dean Krishnamoorthi Roybal-Allard The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- DeFazio Kuster (NH) Ruiz Nebraska, FLORES, JOHNSON of Ohio, ant to section 3 of House Resolution DeGette Lamb Ruppersberger WITTMAN, and CURTIS changed their DeLauro Langevin Rush vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ 965, the yeas and nays are ordered. DelBene Larsen (WA) Rutherford Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, fur- Delgado Larson (CT) Ryan Ms. DEGETTE, Messrs. PETERSON, ther proceedings on this question are Demings Lawrence Sa´ nchez RUTHERFORD, SIMPSON, and postponed. DeSaulnier Lawson (FL) Sarbanes HUIZENGA changed their vote from Deutch Lee (CA) Scanlon ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ f Dingell Lee (NV) Schakowsky Doggett Levin (CA) Schiff So (two-thirds being in the affirma- NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOS- Doyle, Michael Levin (MI) Schneider tive) the rules were suspended and the PHERIC ADMINISTRATION COM- F. Lieu, Ted Schrader bill was passed. MISSIONED OFFICER CORPS Engel Lipinski Schrier Escobar Loebsack Scott (VA) The result of the vote was announced AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2020 Eshoo Lofgren Scott, David as above recorded. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Espaillat Lowenthal Serrano A motion to reconsider was laid on Evans Lowey Sewell (AL) ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfin- Fitzpatrick Luja´ n Shalala the table. ished business is the vote on the mo- Fletcher Luria Sherman Stated against:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.021 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6841 Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably Gooden Long Slotkin Quigley Serrano Tonko detained. Had I been present, I would have Gosar Lucas Smith (MO) Raskin Sewell (AL) Torres (CA) Gottheimer Luetkemeyer Smith (NE) Rice (NY) Shalala Trahan voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 233. Granger Marshall Smith (NJ) Rose (NY) Sherman Trone MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE Graves (MO) Massie Smucker Rouda Sherrill Underwood Roybal-Allard Sires Vargas RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS Green (TN) Mast Spano Griffith McBath Stauber Ruiz Smith (WA) Veasey Barraga´ n (Jeffries) (Pallone) Grothman McCaul Stefanik Ruppersberger Soto Vela (Beyer) Kaptur (Dingell) Payne Rush Spanberger Vela´ zquez Guest McClintock Steil Bera (Aguilar) Kennedy (Kuster (Wasserman Guthrie McKinley Ryan Speier Visclosky Steube Bonamici (Clark (NH)) Schultz) Hagedorn Meuser Sa´ nchez Stanton Wasserman Stivers (MA)) Kim (Davids Peters (Kildee) Harris Miller Sarbanes Stevens Schultz Boyle, Brendan (KS)) Pingree (Kuster Hartzler Moolenaar Taylor Scanlon Suozzi Waters F. (Jeffries) Kirkpatrick (NH)) Hern, Kevin Mooney (WV) Thompson (PA) Schakowsky Swalwell (CA) Watson Coleman Brownley (CA) (Stanton) Pocan (Raskin) Herrera Beutler Murphy (NC) Thornberry Schiff Takano Welch (Clark (MA)) Lamb (Golden) Porter (Wexton) Hice (GA) Newhouse Tiffany Schneider Thompson (CA) Wexton Carson (IN) Langevin Pressley Hill (AR) Nunes Timmons Schrier Thompson (MS) Wild (Cleaver) (Lynch) (Trahan) Holding Olson Tipton Scott (VA) Titus Wilson (FL) Castor (FL) Lawson (FL) Price (NC) Hollingsworth Palazzo Torres Small Scott, David Tlaib Yarmuth (Demings) (Demings) (Butterfield) Hudson Pappas (NM) Cohen (Beyer) ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 Lee (NV) (Kuster Roybal-Allard Huizenga Pence Turner Costa (Cooper) (NH)) (Garcia (TX)) Hurd (TX) Perry Upton Amash DeSaulnier Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Ruiz (Dingell) Jacobs Posey Van Drew (Matsui) NOT VOTING—37 Rush Johnson (OH) Reed Walberg Deutch (Rice Lipinski (Underwood) Johnson (SD) Rice (SC) Walden Abraham Cook McHenry (NY)) (Schrader) Lofgren (Jeffries) Schneider Jordan Riggleman Walker Aderholt Dunn Mitchell Doggett (Raskin) Joyce (OH) Roby Lowenthal (Casten (IL)) Walorski Allen Finkenauer Mullin Doyle, Michael Joyce (PA) Rodgers (WA) (Beyer) Schrier Waltz Bacon Foxx (NC) Norman F. (Cartwright) Katko Roe, David P. Lowey (Tonko) (DelBene) Watkins Brooks (IN) Fudge Palmer Escobar (Garcia Keller Rogers (AL) McEachin Serrano Weber (TX) Bucshon Gianforte Reschenthaler (TX)) Kelly (MS) Rogers (KY) (Wexton) (Jeffries) Webster (FL) Budd Graves (LA) Richmond Frankel (Clark Kelly (PA) Rooney (FL) McNerney Sires (Norcross) Wenstrup Burgess Higgins (LA) Scott, Austin (MA)) King (NY) Rose, John W. Calvert Johnson (LA) (Raskin) Speier (Scanlon) Westerman Stewart Garamendi Kinzinger Rouzer Carter (GA) King (IA) Meng (Kuster Thompson (CA) Williams Wagner (Sherman) Kustoff (TN) Roy Carter (TX) Loudermilk ´ (NH)) (Kildee) Wilson (SC) Wright Grijalva (Garcıa LaHood Rutherford Clay Marchant Moore (Beyer) Titus (Connolly) Wittman (IL)) LaMalfa Scalise Collins (GA) McCarthy Hastings Mucarsel-Powell Watson Coleman Lamb Schrader Womack (Wasserman (Wasserman (Pallone) Lamborn Schweikert Woodall Schultz) Schultz) Welch Latta Sensenbrenner Yoho b 1216 Higgins (NY) Nadler (Jeffries) (McGovern) Lesko Shimkus Young Mr. COOPER, Ms. BASS, Messrs. (Sa´ nchez) Napolitano Wilson (FL) Lipinski Simpson Zeldin Jayapal (Raskin) (Correa) (Hayes) BUTTERFIELD, YARMUTH, and LAR- Johnson (TX) Pascrell NAYS—218 SEN of Washington changed their vote f Adams DeSaulnier Larsen (WA) from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ Aguilar Deutch Larson (CT) Messrs. PALAZZO, GUTHRIE, MARIJUANA OPPORTUNITY REIN- Allred Dingell Lawrence NUNES, and GONZALEZ of Ohio Axne Doggett Lawson (FL) VESTMENT AND EXPUNGEMENT Barraga´ n Doyle, Michael Lee (CA) changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to ACT OF 2019 Bass F. Lee (NV) ‘‘yea.’’ Beatty Engel Levin (CA) So the motion to recommit was re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bera Escobar Levin (MI) jected. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfin- Beyer Eshoo Lieu, Ted The result of the vote was announced ished business is the vote on the mo- Bishop (GA) Espaillat Loebsack Blumenauer Evans Lofgren as above recorded. tion to recommit on the bill (H.R. 3884) Blunt Rochester Fletcher Lowenthal PERSONAL EXPLANATION to decriminalize and deschedule can- Bonamici Foster Lowey nabis, to provide for reinvestment in Boyle, Brendan Frankel Luja´ n Mr. ALLEN. Madam Speaker, due to certain persons adversely impacted by F. Gaetz Luria COVID–19, I was unable to vote the week of Brindisi Gallego Lynch 12/2/2020. Had I been present, I would have the War on Drugs, to provide for Brown (MD) Garamendi Malinowski expungement of certain cannabis of- Brownley (CA) Garcı´a (IL) Maloney, voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall N. 232, ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall fenses, and for other purposes, offered Bustos Garcia (TX) Carolyn B. No. 233, and ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 234. Butterfield Golden Maloney, Sean MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE by the gentlewoman from Arizona Carbajal Gomez Matsui (Mrs. LESKO), on which the yeas and Ca´ rdenas Gonzalez (TX) McAdams RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS nays were ordered. Carson (IN) Green, Al (TX) McCollum Barraga´ n Schultz) Moore (Beyer) The Clerk will redesignate the mo- Cartwright Grijalva McEachin (Beyer) Higgins (NY) Mucarsel-Powell Casten (IL) Haaland McGovern Bera (Aguilar) (Sa´ nchez) (Wasserman tion. Castor (FL) Hall McNerney Bonamici (Clark Jayapal (Raskin) Schultz) The Clerk redesignated the motion. Castro (TX) Harder (CA) Meeks (MA)) Johnson (TX) Nadler (Jeffries) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chu, Judy Hastings Meng Boyle, Brendan (Jeffries) Napolitano question is on the motion to recommit. Cicilline Hayes Mfume F. (Jeffries) Kaptur (Dingell) (Correa) Cisneros Heck Moore Brownley (CA) Kennedy (Kuster Pascrell The vote was taken by electronic de- Clark (MA) Higgins (NY) Morelle (Clark (MA)) (NH)) (Pallone) vice, and there were—yeas 174, nays Clarke (NY) Himes Moulton Carson (IN) Kim (Davids Payne 218, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting Cleaver Horn, Kendra S. Mucarsel-Powell (Cleaver) (KS)) (Wasserman Clyburn Horsford Murphy (FL) Kirkpatrick Schultz) 37, as follows: Castor (FL) Cohen Houlahan Nadler (Demings) (Stanton) Peters (Kildee) [Roll No. 234] Connolly Hoyer Napolitano Cohen (Beyer) Lamb (Golden) Pingree (Kuster Cooper Huffman Neal Langevin (NH)) Costa (Cooper) YEAS—174 Correa Jackson Lee Neguse (Lynch) Pocan (Raskin) DeSaulnier Amodei Buck DesJarlais Costa Jayapal Norcross Lawson (FL) Porter (Wexton) (Matsui) Armstrong Burchett Diaz-Balart Courtney Jeffries O’Halleran (Demings) Pressley Deutch (Rice Arrington Byrne Duncan Cox (CA) Johnson (GA) Ocasio-Cortez Lee (NV) (Kuster (Trahan) (NY)) Babin Case Emmer Craig Johnson (TX) Omar (NH)) Price (NC) Baird Chabot Estes Crist Kaptur Pallone Doggett (Raskin) Lieu, Ted (Beyer) (Butterfield) Balderson Cheney Ferguson Crow Keating Panetta Doyle, Michael Lipinski Rooney (FL) Banks Cline Fitzpatrick Cuellar Kelly (IL) Pascrell F. (Cartwright) (Schrader) (Beyer) Barr Cloud Fleischmann Davids (KS) Kennedy Payne Escobar (Garcia Lofgren (Jeffries) Roybal-Allard Bergman Cole Flores Davis (CA) Khanna Perlmutter (TX)) Lowenthal Garcia (TX)) Biggs Comer Fortenberry Davis, Danny K. Kildee Peters Frankel (Clark (Beyer) Ruiz (Dingell) Bilirakis Conaway Fulcher Dean Kilmer Peterson (MA)) Lowey (Tonko) Rush Bishop (NC) Crawford Gabbard DeFazio Kim Phillips Garamendi McEachin (Underwood) Bishop (UT) Crenshaw Gallagher DeGette Kind Pingree (Sherman) (Wexton) Schneider Bost Cunningham Garcia (CA) DeLauro Kirkpatrick Pocan Grijalva (Garcı´a McNerney (Casten (IL)) Brady Curtis Gibbs DelBene Krishnamoorthi Porter (IL)) (Raskin) Schrier Brooks (AL) Davidson (OH) Gohmert Delgado Kuster (NH) Pressley Hastings Meng (Kuster (DelBene) Buchanan Davis, Rodney Gonzalez (OH) Demings Langevin Price (NC) (Wasserman (NH)) Serrano

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(Jeffries)Sires Titus (Connolly) Wilson (FL) Veasey Wasserman Wexton PERSONAL EXPLANATION (Norcross) Watson Coleman (Hayes) Vela Schultz Wild Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, Speier (Scanlon) (Pallone) Vela´ zquez Waters Wilson (FL) Thompson (CA) Welch Visclosky Watson Coleman Yarmuth on rollcall No. 233, I am not recorded because (Kildee) (McGovern) Welch Young of circumstances which caused me to miss the vote. Had I been present, I would have voted The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. NAYS—164 Amodei Griffith Posey aye. MCCOLLUM). The question is on the pas- On rollcall No. 234, I am not recorded be- sage of the bill. Armstrong Grothman Reed Arrington Guest Rice (SC) cause of circumstances which caused me to The question was taken; and the Babin Guthrie Roby miss the vote. Had I been present, I would Speaker pro tempore announced that Bacon Hagedorn Rodgers (WA) have voted aye. the ayes appeared to have it. Baird Harris Roe, David P. Balderson Hartzler Rogers (AL) On rollcall No, 235, I am not recorded be- Mrs. LESKO. Madam Speaker, on Banks Hern, Kevin Rogers (KY) cause of circumstances which caused me to that I demand the yeas and nays. Barr Herrera Beutler Rooney (FL) miss the vote. Had I been present, I would The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bergman Hice (GA) Rose, John W. Biggs Hill (AR) have voted nay. ant to section 3 of House Resolution Rouzer Bilirakis Holding Roy MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE 965, the yeas and nays are ordered. Bishop (NC) Hollingsworth Rutherford RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS Bishop (UT) Hudson The vote was taken by electronic de- Scalise Barraga´ n (Beyer) Kaptur (Dingell) Payne Bost Huizenga Schweikert Bera (Aguilar) Kennedy (Kuster (Wasserman vice, and there were—yeas 228, nays Brady Hurd (TX) Sensenbrenner Bonamici (Clark (NH)) Schultz) 164, not voting 38, as follows: Brooks (AL) Jacobs Shimkus (MA)) Peters (Kildee) Buchanan Johnson (OH) Kim (Davids [Roll No. 235] Simpson Boyle, Brendan Buck Johnson (SD) (KS)) Pingree (Kuster Smith (MO) F. (Jeffries) YEAS—228 Burchett Jordan Kirkpatrick (NH)) Smith (NE) Brownley (CA) Bustos Joyce (OH) (Stanton) Pocan (Raskin) Adams Garamendi Morelle Smith (NJ) (Clark (MA)) Byrne Joyce (PA) Lamb (Golden) Porter (Wexton) Aguilar Garcı´a (IL) Moulton Smucker Carson (IN) Chabot Katko Langevin Pressley Allred Garcia (TX) Mucarsel-Powell Spano (Cleaver) Cheney Keller (Lynch) (Trahan) Amash Golden Murphy (FL) Castor (FL) Cline Kelly (MS) Stauber Lawson (FL) Price (NC) Axne Gomez Nadler (Demings) Cloud Kelly (PA) Stefanik (Demings) (Butterfield) Barraga´ n Gonzalez (TX) Napolitano Cohen (Beyer) Cole King (NY) Steil Lee (NV) (Kuster Rooney (FL) Bass Gottheimer Neal Costa (Cooper) Comer Kinzinger Steube (NH)) (Beyer) Beatty Green, Al (TX) Neguse DeSaulnier Conaway Kustoff (TN) Stivers Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Roybal-Allard Bera Grijalva Norcross (Matsui) Crawford LaHood Taylor Lipinski (Garcia (TX)) Beyer Haaland O’Halleran Deutch (Rice Crenshaw LaMalfa Thompson (PA) (Schrader) Ruiz (Dingell) Bishop (GA) Hall Ocasio-Cortez (NY)) Cuellar Lamb Thornberry Blumenauer Harder (CA) Omar Doggett (Raskin) Lofgren (Jeffries) Rush Curtis Lamborn Tiffany Blunt Rochester Hastings Pallone Doyle, Michael Lowenthal (Underwood) Davidson (OH) Latta Timmons Bonamici Hayes Panetta F. (Cartwright) (Beyer) Schneider Davis, Rodney Lesko Tipton Boyle, Brendan Heck Pascrell Escobar (Garcia Lowey (Tonko) (Casten (IL)) DesJarlais Lipinski Turner F. Higgins (NY) Payne (TX)) McEachin Schrier Diaz-Balart Long Upton Brindisi Himes Perlmutter Frankel (Clark (Wexton) (DelBene) Duncan Lucas Van Drew Brown (MD) Horn, Kendra S. Peters (MA)) McNerney Serrano Emmer Luetkemeyer Walberg Brownley (CA) Horsford Phillips Garamendi (Raskin) (Jeffries) Estes Marshall Walden Butterfield Houlahan Pingree (Sherman) Meng (Kuster Sires (Norcross) Fitzpatrick Massie Walker Carbajal Hoyer Pocan Grijalva (Garcı´a (NH)) Speier (Scanlon) Fleischmann McCaul Walorski Ca´ rdenas Huffman Porter (IL)) Moore (Beyer) Thompson (CA) Flores McKinley Waltz Carson (IN) Jackson Lee Pressley Hastings Mucarsel-Powell (Kildee) Fortenberry Meuser Watkins Cartwright Jayapal Price (NC) (Wasserman (Wasserman Titus (Connolly) Fulcher Miller Weber (TX) Case Jeffries Quigley Schultz) Schultz) Watson Coleman Gallagher Moolenaar Webster (FL) Casten (IL) Johnson (GA) Raskin Higgins (NY) Nadler (Jeffries) (Pallone) Garcia (CA) Mooney (WV) Wenstrup Castor (FL) Johnson (TX) Rice (NY) (Sa´ nchez) Napolitano Welch Gibbs Murphy (NC) Westerman Castro (TX) Kaptur Riggleman Jayapal (Raskin) (Correa) (McGovern) Gohmert Nunes Williams Chu, Judy Keating Rose (NY) Johnson (TX) Pascrell Wilson (FL) Gonzalez (OH) Olson Wilson (SC) Cicilline Kelly (IL) Rouda (Jeffries) (Pallone) (Hayes) Cisneros Kennedy Roybal-Allard Gooden Palazzo Wittman Clark (MA) Khanna Ruiz Gosar Pappas Womack f Granger Pence Woodall Clarke (NY) Kildee Ruppersberger b 1315 Cleaver Kilmer Rush Graves (MO) Perry Yoho Clyburn Kim Ryan Green (TN) Peterson Zeldin LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS Cohen Kind Sa´ nchez NOT VOTING—38 Connolly Kirkpatrick Sarbanes (Mr. SCALISE asked and was given Cooper Krishnamoorthi Scanlon Abraham Cox (CA) McHenry permission to address the House for 1 Correa Kuster (NH) Schakowsky Aderholt Dunn Mitchell minute and to revise and extend his re- Costa Langevin Schiff Allen Ferguson Mullin Courtney Larsen (WA) Schneider Brooks (IN) Foxx (NC) Newhouse marks.) Craig Larson (CT) Schrader Bucshon Fudge Norman Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I rise for Crist Lawrence Schrier Budd Gianforte Palmer the purpose of inquiring to the major- Crow Lawson (FL) Scott (VA) Burgess Graves (LA) Reschenthaler ity leader the schedule for next week. Cunningham Lee (CA) Scott, David Calvert Higgins (LA) Richmond Carter (GA) Johnson (LA) Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Davids (KS) Lee (NV) Serrano Scott, Austin Carter (TX) King (IA) Davis (CA) Levin (CA) Sewell (AL) Stewart from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), my friend Clay Loudermilk Davis, Danny K. Levin (MI) Shalala Wagner and the majority leader of the House. Collins (GA) Marchant Dean Lieu, Ted Sherman Wright Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank DeFazio Loebsack Sherrill Cook McCarthy DeGette Lofgren Sires the gentleman for yielding. DeLauro Lowenthal Slotkin b 1308 Mr. Speaker, on Monday, the House DelBene Lowey Smith (WA) will meet at 12 p.m. for legislative Delgado Luja´ n Soto Mr. LARSON of Connecticut changed business. Members are advised that Demings Luria Spanberger his vote from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ votes are expected as early as 2 p.m. DeSaulnier Lynch Speier So the bill was passed. Deutch Malinowski Stanton I want to repeat that. We are going Dingell Maloney, Stevens The result of the vote was announced in at 12 p.m. Votes can be as early as 2 Doggett Carolyn B. Suozzi as above recorded. p.m. Doyle, Michael Maloney, Sean Swalwell (CA) A motion to reconsider was laid on F. Mast Takano This is unusual for the first day of Engel Matsui Thompson (CA) the table. the week. I have advised and urged Escobar McAdams Thompson (MS) PERSONAL EXPLANATION Members to stay here this weekend— Eshoo McBath Titus Espaillat McClintock Tlaib Mr. KING of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I was most of them I have talked to are—be- Evans McCollum Tonko unable to vote on December 3, and 4, 2020, cause, clearly, we are trying to get two Finkenauer McEachin Torres (CA) due to not being in town. Had I been present, critical pieces of legislation done, Fletcher McGovern Torres Small I would have voted as follows: ‘‘no’’ on rollcall which we will speak to, I think, in a Foster McNerney (NM) Frankel Meeks Trahan No. 230; ‘‘no’’ on rollcall No. 231; ‘‘no’’ on roll- little bit. Gabbard Meng Trone call No. 232; ‘‘no’’ on rollcall No. 233; ‘‘yes’’ on On Tuesday and Wednesday, the Gaetz Mfume Underwood rollcall No. 234; and ‘‘no’’ on rollcall No. 235. House will meet at 10 a.m. for morning- Gallego Moore Vargas

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE7.019 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6843 hour debate and 12 p.m. for legislative The House may also consider addi- it is my understanding she may be business. tional legislation to address the leaving. On Thursday, the House will meet at coronavirus pandemic, as I have al- Mr. HOYER. It is a vicious rumor 9 a.m. for legislative business. ready said. The House has passed two that has been spread abroad in the I advise Members that we still have different Heroes bills. country. to pass an omnibus and we have to pass We passed the bill on May 15th, 6 Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I would a COVID–19 relief bill, and we will not months ago, to deal with this extraor- be happy to yield time to her if she adjourn the Congress until such time dinary crisis placing millions of Ameri- would like to deny that rumor, but as we can accomplish those two objec- cans at risk, causing deep emotional while that may create some issues, I tives. and physical distress and a challenge would like to say that, if this is the I was hopeful that we would accom- not only to their health, but also to last time that we do this colloquy be- plish those objectives by next Thurs- their psychological welfare, and to edu- fore the end of this year, it has been a day. Unfortunately, things are not cating our children and keeping our true pleasure to work with Shuwanza moving as rapidly as I think they schools safe and providing the re- Goff. ought to—I would like them to, but as sources necessary that, if we can get My whole staff has enjoyed working they ought to be moving—so that children back in school—which I think with her, and especially on those areas Members need to be advised that they all of us want to do—that we can ac- where we agree—the CARES Act and need to keep their schedules very, very complish that objective. USMCA come to mind as recent major flexible until such time as we pass both The House has also passed, on Octo- accomplishments that this legislative of those pieces of legislation. ber 1, some 2 months ago, a $2.2 trillion body has done together, Republicans We will, in addition, consider several bill. That was not taken up by the Sen- and Democrats—and she, I know, has bills under suspension of the rules. The ate. The Senate has passed no legisla- been that conduit who works with our complete list of suspensions will be an- tion since May 15th. They did not con- staff on the Republican side. We con- nounced by the close of business today. sidered it a true joy to work with her. I will say something further on sus- sider our bill either time, neither the She doesn’t schedule every bill I ask pensions. Somebody said: Oh, well, we Heroes 1 bill nor the Heroes 2. It is unfortunate, in my view, that her to schedule, but I will blame that are not passing important bills. That is not accurate. Somehow, when Senate Republicans have failed to act, on the majority leader, not on we have agreement, it is not looked as even if they didn’t act on what we Shuwanza. important. On suspensions, it simply wanted to do. I am pleased that the Mr. Speaker, if I can, in all serious- means we have an agreement between Speaker and Senate majority leader ness, say, it has truly been a treat and the parties that we can pass those bills spoke yesterday. I have spoken to him a joy, and she is one of the people who because they are bipartisan and the three times this week, and I hope that makes this place work when it does overwhelming majority of Members we can get an agreement. The House work. agree on them. So we are passing bills stands ready to act next week. We can always talk about the things that are good bills but not controver- Lastly, as everybody understands, that we would like to achieve that we sial, and that is a good thing. when you get to the end of a session, can’t, but there are many important But we will consider several bills we don’t contemplate everything that things we achieve, like those impor- under suspension. As I said, the com- might be on the agenda, so other pieces tant pieces of legislation I talked plete list will be available at the close of legislation may be on the agenda about and many others that don’t get of business today. next week or the week thereafter. that same kind of attention, but they The House will consider the fiscal Again, I reiterate, I am very hopeful wouldn’t happen without the work and year 2021 National Defense Authoriza- that we can get this business done by the great leadership that Shuwanza has tion Act conference report. I am very next week. demonstrated here. She will be missed pleased that we have a bipartisan, bi- Mr. Speaker, the reason I scheduled here, and I just wanted to mention cameral agreement on NDAA and look the 11th as the CR day is because I that. forward to it overwhelmingly passing wanted to make sure we could get I know the gentleman feels probably both Chambers next week and, if nec- Members home. With the COVID crisis, even stronger, because she has worked essary, overriding a threatened veto by the pandemic has exploded. for him for the whole time I have been President Trump. Members ought not to be aggregating in leadership, but, I think, going back This is a critically important bill to here on the House floor or aggregating to maybe 2008. pass. It always passes, and I am hopeful here in Washington. They ought to be Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gen- that we will come together on this bill. home. And if we got out on the 11th— tleman. It was a tough conference but a good I want to get through on the 10th so we Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I may get conference, and the result, I think, can can send a bill to the Senate. However, into this next week, and I am hopeful be supported by both sides of the aisle, if we left on the 11th, it will be 14 days that the gentleman is right that we signed, obviously, by the Senate Re- before Christmas, and, therefore, if don’t have a colloquy next week, that publican chairman and our chairman Members leaving Washington had to we would have completed our business, here in the House. quarantine themselves, they would as I have been talking about. As Members know, the continuing have sufficient time to do so so that Mr. Speaker, I have been blessed, the resolution expires on December 11; they could be with their families on House has been blessed, the country therefore, the authority for spending to Christmas Day. has been blessed by Shuwanza Goff’s keep government running will expire I would hope that everyone on the leadership on this floor on my behalf on the 11th. The Committee on Appro- Committee on Appropriations, the and on the majority’s behalf, working priations is hard at work on reaching leadership—myself included—would closely with the minority. And I know an agreement on an omnibus, and I feel the urgency of passing this needed that Shuwanza would want me to say hope to bring that to the floor as early legislation. that she looks forward to the same as possible. I am hopeful that will be Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman kind of cooperation in her new job that next week. for yielding. she has gotten in her old job, and if the Frankly, I have had a discussion with Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank gentleman wants to assure her of that, Senator MCCONNELL. I am told there is the gentleman. I will yield to him. no agreement that we cannot make on There are a few items relating to leg- Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I will the 11th that will be easier to make on islation that I want to bring up with give this assurance to the majority the 18th, which is the end of the fol- the gentleman, but before that, I did leader, that if you are looking for a re- lowing week. I would urge Members, want to mention that it is my under- placement, I would be happy to provide however, to ensure that they are avail- standing that the floor director for the recommendations and even participate able for the week of the 14th if we have majority leader, Ms. Shuwanza Goff— in the interview process, if that would not completed our business by next the last thing I would want to do is em- be helpful to the gentleman from week. barrass her here on the House floor, but Maryland.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.028 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6844 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 Mr. HOYER. The gentleman is most ment’s response to assisting people is because she was waiting on a ‘‘new generous. with ALS be quick as well. President.’’ I hope that was a quote Mr. SCALISE. I think the generosity Mr. Speaker, as we know, what this that was made out of context or maybe probably ends there with today’s col- bill does is it provides an acceleration needs to be revised. loquy. I am sure we will have that op- for people who are suffering from and b 1330 portunity next week to have a longer afflicted with ALS to get assistance. conversation, but I truly do want to So, hopefully, the House will pass it There are millions of people that are pass that on to Shuwanza, and not just and will send it to the President. literally facing the elimination of their on behalf of myself, but on behalf of I appreciate the gentleman’s cospon- livelihoods, and we have a bill that, if the minority leader, Mr. MCCARTHY, sorship of the bill. it was put on the floor today, yester- and his staff, as well as mine, and all of Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank day, or September, when we first had us in leadership who get to work with the gentleman. this conversation, there would be hun- her. Mr. Speaker, as relates to the sched- dreds of thousands of businesses still Mr. Speaker, I do want to mention, ule next week, as well as the schedule open today that are now bankrupt, on the schedule next week, one of the we have had this week, I want to bring that will never open again. Every day items that I know we have worked on up a piece of legislation that we have we wait, more businesses don’t reopen. together and talked about that I be- talked about here in this colloquy and Clearly, we are negotiating to try to lieve the gentleman has scheduled for in other venues for months now, and get an agreement on bigger issues. We next week is S. 578, which is the ALS that is the bill by Congressman are not there. We weren’t there last Disability Insurance Access Act, some- CHABOT, H.R. 8265, which is the Pay- month; we weren’t there the month be- thing that we have worked on, a num- check Protection Program Extension fore. The Senate has tried to take up ber of these items, for people with Act. votes on things. It wasn’t the Repub- ALS. We have seen over these last few licans; it was the Democrats that The Steve Gleason Act was one of months our small businesses have blocked those bills coming up. This, by those items we worked on a few years struggled tremendously. Some indus- the way, was one of those in the pack- ago, passed to help people with ALS, tries have done better during this pan- age that would have been voted on by and has been a tremendous, tremen- demic where they have seen increased the Senate, if not for Senate Demo- dous benefit to people struggling with sales for various reasons, but we have crats blocking even the debate on the ALS. mostly seen and heard from so many of Senate floor. So they never had that Steve Gleason is a constituent and a those businesses and industries that debate. dear friend, somebody whom we have have been devastated, some harder On this floor, just today, we saw a worked with on many things. He re- than others, but so many devastated to bill to legalize marijuana. You saw ceived earlier this year—it seems like the point of bankruptcy. Daily, we see items in there where it would give ad- years ago, but just January of this stories of businesses that closed their ditional money to people in the mari- year, he was the recipient of the Con- doors for good. juana industry. This is something that gressional Gold Medal, and deservedly Mr. Speaker, in the State of New Congress, I am sure, will continue to so. York alone, it was reported that one- debate. He and I were communicating earlier third of all small businesses—one- But there is a pandemic where, this week about this legislation, which third—will never open again. We came today, we have businesses that are I am a cosponsor of, and I just want to together to do the CARES Act, to pass shutting their doors. Tomorrow, busi- thank the gentleman for scheduling that lifeline to so many small busi- nesses will go bankrupt forever, small that for the floor next week. nesses—saved probably 50 million jobs businesses. We can help them. Not with One of those areas, as you were talk- in America, saved millions of small a new program that we need to nego- ing about earlier, that might not get a businesses—but it expired; and when it tiate the details over, but something lot of attention but an issue that both expired, we learned a lot more about we already did that was so highly suc- Republicans and Democrats have where our economy was at that time. cessful that we have a track record to worked on is to help people with ALS When we passed it, it was at the very show what it can do. who, right now, under current law, beginning of the pandemic. We now saw Our small banks, local community even after the diagnosis with ALS—as over those months which businesses banks, were part of that process and we know, it is just a devastating diag- were doing better, which weren’t, and are ready to go again. Again, we don’t nosis—have to wait 5 months to get the came back in September with a piece need to reinvent the wheel here. This is normal benefits that they are entitled of legislation that would free up money an existing program that has got exist- to. And time is very, very critical to that is not going to have to be bor- ing, remaining money, but the program people with ALS. This eliminates that rowed, money that is actually sitting is frozen and expired. This bill just re- 5-month gap where they would have to in that account, frozen, $137 billion news it and could pass on the suspen- wait, one of those additional occasions that we already appropriated. But the sion calendar, and it still hasn’t been where it takes an act of Congress to fix program expired so it can’t be used brought up. this. anymore unless we change the law. While we are negotiating other The Senate acted, and quickly, now, So, we are not talking about creating things, why not release this hostage the House will be acting to address this a new program. We are talking about and let this bill pass. It could have deficiency that needs to be fixed. I going back to a program that was been done today. It wasn’t a lack of think you will see both sides come to- maybe one of the most successful time. When we are debating legalizing gether with a very large vote, but I things that we have done to help people marijuana instead of saving small busi- thank the gentleman for scheduling in need—not just those small busi- nesses, that is a misplaced priority of that for the floor next week. nesses, but the millions, 50-plus million this Congress. We should have come to- I yield to the gentleman, if you have people whose livelihoods depend on gether months ago. September 16, it anything to add on that. those jobs. was introduced. September 17, I Mr. HOYER. Well, I was pleased to The bill was brought forward, had a brought it up to the majority leader at schedule this. Obviously, as you know, lot of bipartisan interest, but for var- this colloquy. The following week it passed the Senate the other day. ious reasons hasn’t been scheduled on brought it up again. Hopefully, we will pass it on suspension this House floor. And there were re- Then we filed a discharge petition. next week and it will be sent to the ports that maybe it was tied to waiting You had, I think, 23 Democrats sign a President. Hopefully, the President on the election or whatever other letter saying they would sign that dis- will sign it. things. charge petition if we didn’t get a bipar- Obviously, ALS is just a terrible, ter- In fact, the Speaker of the House, tisan agreement, recognizing that the rible disease, and a disease that acts just today, made a comment that one Heroes Act is not a bipartisan agree- very, very quickly, which means that of the reasons a certain relief package ment. Unfortunately, not one of those there is a premium on the govern- bill wasn’t brought to the House floor Members who signed the letter saying

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.029 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6845 they would sign the discharge have it in both bills we passed. It wasn’t a talking to Senator MCCONNELL towards signed the discharge. Talk is cheap question that they were partisan or not that end. around here. partisan. They weren’t taken up in the The Senators are working on an ef- Livelihoods are being lost. Businesses United States Senate. We passed them. fort to get that done. I am hopeful they are shuttering for good. Why can’t this They were not taken up. are successful. The Speaker and Mr. bill be scheduled for the floor while we Yes, the Senate leader offered a bill SCHUMER said it was a place that they work on the other things that we are that every economist with whom I could negotiate from, which means we not in agreement on? This is something have talked said was not substantive are closer than we have been, and I we are in agreement on. But it won’t be enough, not sufficient resources to stop hope it gets done. scheduled for the floor. the hemorrhaging, and to help fight Mr. SCALISE. Let me remind the Maybe we can get an agreement to COVID–19. gentleman that in the CARES Act, we schedule that Monday when we are So I tell my friend, we are for that addressed many of those issues that coming in at 2 o’clock to vote on other bill. What we are not for is forgetting the gentleman already brought up, items. This would be something that the kids, the families, the hospital starting with the States. would get 400-plus votes, if it was just workers, the researchers, the States, In fact, I don’t know of a single State scheduled. the localities. We are not for forgetting in this country who has spent all of the I yield to the gentleman. them. We believe that if we pass one money we sent them. Educational op- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank part of a multifaceted response to portunities for schools to reopen safely the gentleman for his observations. He COVID–19 and the implication for our and educate kids are being denied in is right; we are for this. economy, that will not be what our some places but not in others, but it is We are also for making sure that economy, nor our people, need. not from a lack of money. There is not children have food on their tables. We We would ask you to talk to the Sen- a single school system I have heard are also supportive of making sure that ate or to offer your own bill. Offer your from, where we sent them the money— education facilities have the money to own bill that deals with all of those and by the way, they still have mil- keep their venues safe and to keep edu- millions of people that I just ref- lions, and in some cases, billions of cation flowing. We are also for making erenced that are in deep, deep distress. those dollars sitting in their account, sure that childcare is available to par- We need to deal with the small busi- idle, that can be used today to safely ents who can go back to work, when nesses, and we do. We need to deal with reopen schools. If the State chooses not to do it or if and if their children go back to school. the unemployed and we do. We are also for having critical money We have a lot of things expiring on the school system chooses not to do it, for testing and tracing and, yes, for de- December 31, PPP—your bill, does not that is on them. But they are denying livering the vaccinations. Yes, we are deal with any of that. We need to deal those kids opportunities. We are seeing for that, and we are also for States and with all of it. We ought to do it. Mr. report after report, scientific studies, the American Academy of Pediatrics, localities that are hemorrhaging rev- CHABOT’s bill ought to be a part of talking about the damage that is being enue to have the resources to continue that, and it will be, because we are done to our young children by being de- to be on the front line of fighting the committed to that. But we are also nied the opportunity to go back to battle against COVID–19. committed to not forgetting all of school in classroom and learn. It is We are also for resources, not only to those people and elements that I men- devastating to those kids. have created the vaccine—almost all of tioned. Suicides are up and opioid abuse is which is being funded by the Federal I want to help the airlines. And, up, because of all of these things, and Government—but we are also for mak- hopefully, that will be in any deal that it is the small businesses that are pay- ing sure we can deliver that vaccine we come to. I want to help the res- ing the biggest price. and have vaccinations as well as hav- taurants. These are people who, If you look, people that are getting ing a vaccine. through no fault of their own, are dev- unemployment insurance at the State We are very strongly for helping the astated. level—we did enhanced unemployment extraordinary number of unemployed, So I tell my friend, he is right, but insurance for a period of time, and in who are on unemployment insurance, only partially so. He is right that we most cases we were paying people more and who, at the end of this month, are ought to be helping the small busi- money not to work than they were going to find it goes away. We are for nesses. But I don’t think there is a making before they lost their job. having an additional enhancement of small businessman in America that What they ask me is not that they that unemployment insurance, which would say let the nutrition issue go, as want to stay on unemployment. They so many economists will tell you from we see lines of cars and lines of people want to go back to work. They want the CARES Act, was absolutely essen- getting food boxes so they can put food their business to be alive when they go tial to keep the economy afloat. on their table for their kids and them- back to work. But if a small business And the fact that we have kept the selves, people who never, ever, ex- closes for good, the cost to us is going economy afloat, as shown by—appar- pected in their lives to be in a food to be dramatically higher. ently, the stock market thinks we are line. I think the small businessmen If we can right now throw that life- okay—the millions and millions and would say, take care of them. I think line, again, to those businesses—not millions of families who are in deep the small businessmen would say, I with a new program, not with things distress and are not okay. I am ap- haven’t been able to pay taxes, and I that we don’t agree on, like $900 billion palled by the fact that we have not know the State is still operating hos- to bail out failed States, which is the acted. pitals, still fixing the roads, still hiring Heroes Act. We already spent hundreds We have acted twice. You say it was police and fire, and hiring nurses in of billions of dollars that we gave to partisan. That is true; you chose not to public hospitals. They need help, too. States. Like I said, I think every single vote for it. It wasn’t much different We are all in this together. That is State has some of that money left. than the CARES Act, which you did my response to the gentleman, Mr. Some have billions of dollars of that vote for. But, apparently, shortly after Speaker. money left. we passed the Heroes Act, your leader, We want to have a comprehensive bill So the idea that we are going to hold Mr. MCCARTHY, said, Let’s wait and see that will deal with a comprehensive up relief to small business, who are what happens. And Senator MCCONNELL threat to our economy and to the closing every day, hundreds of thou- said, Let the States go bankrupt. health of our people and to the welfare sands—a third of every small business Well, they are on that road. And we of our people. We think that is the re- in the State of New York is gone for have seen what happened by waiting. sponsible thing to do. good. How many more need to die be- We have thousands of our fellow citi- I am hopeful that we can get an fore this problem is recognized by this zens dying every week, now over 260,000 agreement in the near term. When I Congress? Americans; millions afflicted. say, ‘‘the near term,’’ by next week. I So those States are sitting on money, So I tell my friend, Mr. Speaker, that have been talking to Senator MCCON- and the gentleman wants to hold up re- we care about PPP, and we took care of NELL towards that end. The Speaker is lief to small businesses to give another

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.031 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6846 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 $900 billion to bail out States, not for We know that is going to lead to their tables every morning and every the COVID damage, but the problems businesses that will never come back. evening. I didn’t hear him talk about they had before. That is what the He- And we have a bill ready to go that the unemployed, the 12 million Amer- roes Act disagreement was about. We would get massive bipartisan support ican workers who are going to run out agreed on giving States money. They without a new dime of money, money of unemployment as of the end of this still have some of that money, and it sitting frozen in an account that would month. can be used to reopen schools safely, help those small businesses. The cri- Mr. Speaker, I did hear him talk still today. teria is you have to have at least 25 about the failed States. Let me tell What is not there right now is relief percent loss. you, Maryland is not a failed State, for those small businesses. So when So your small businesses that are and our Governor is a Republican. His you look at all of these different doing well today—again, we know name is Hogan. His father served in things—the vaccine, they are not wait- there are some that are doing better this body. He, along with Mr. Cuomo, ing on approving a vaccine based on today than they were a year ago, but the Governor of New York, said the more money coming in. We put money we also know some are about to close States, meaning all the States, need in the CARES Act, and President for good. We can help them, not with substantial assistance or they are Trump spent it effectively on Oper- new policy that we are not in agree- going to have to make substantial ation Warp Speed to get us to the point ment on. That is where the negotia- cuts. In my State, we have made cuts, where we have not one, but two—Pfizer tions are continuing to go back and and we are a wealthy State. We have and Moderna—ready to go. forth on. made cuts, which have undermined the The FDA is about to approve two dif- But if there is something we all agree States’s ability to respond as robustly ferent vaccines, and it is being mass on, do we really need to hold that hos- as they need to do to COVID–19. produced today. We are not waiting on tage, when that means that many of Now, the President wants to talk money to mass produce it. The Depart- those businesses will never come back? about failed States. What he really ment of Defense is actually involved in We could have done this in Sep- means is blue States, Mr. Speaker. helping distribute it. Airlines have al- tember. It was brought up in Sep- That is what he means—large States ready been contracted to get it out. tember. It is not a new item. like New York; large States like Cali- Some need to be air-conditioned more How many thousands of businesses fornia. By the way, Florida and Texas than others. All of that is put in place. died from the day that that bill was in- are in the same position. Now, Texas If we need more money, we will come troduced to today and will die again has a greater surplus. But failed States together and get more money. But a between now and Monday? is a fake news item. vaccine is not waiting on us to send It can be put on the schedule Mon- Mr. Speaker, what we should do is them more money. We need to get it day. It is not going to stop the negotia- come together and have an agreement. out. We need the FDA to follow their tions on the other things. There are Now, we can pass something here, and process, which they are doing. They are other things that we are both in agree- we did pass something here. The Re- the gold standard in the world for ap- ment on that aren’t part of that bill. publicans chose to join us, Mr. Speak- er, on the first three bills. One was an proving vaccines, and it is unheard of, Bring that as a stand-alone. Let’s bring $8.3 billion bill responding to $1.2 tril- in the history of mankind, for a virus, each of those items that we are in lion or $2.2 trillion that the President that we didn’t even know of until a agreement on. year and two days ago in the world, to But the idea that we hold everything asked for. In other words, four times what the President asked for. In terms now be on the brink of not one, but two hostage to things that aren’t going to of what we have done, that seems like FDA-approved vaccines. That is hap- happen, hundreds of billions to failed pening because of what we did coming small potatoes, a lot of money. States, giving checks to people who But it was clear that the administra- together with the CARES Act and then aren’t here legally, is that really a pri- President Trump’s Operation Warp tion’s response to this crisis was woe- ority? fully inadequate, represented by that Speed. Is that really the things we are get- These aren’t items that are waiting first bill that they sent to us, knowing ting called on every day? full well that it would not even come on our relief. What is waiting is relief The folks that are on unemployment close to meeting the needs. So we in- for small businesses. want to be able to go back to their job. Now, the Heroes Act, again, it was a creased it about 400 percent. The If the company is dead and gone, there partisan exercise, not because it was Speaker then negotiated with Mr. will be nothing to go back to. And so mostly like the CARES Act. It was Mnuchin and came up with two addi- we are working on so many items that very different from the CARES Act. In tional bills that were passed in a bipar- we are in agreement on. We have given the Heroes Act, there are billions of tisan fashion. money to our health experts to con- dollars in that bill to give checks to And, very frankly, the President told tinue to focus on the virus, to continue people here illegally. That wasn’t part us this was about to go away. Not to to get the vaccine, and we may have of any agreement. It wasn’t in the worry. It is going to go away. It will go another two—could be four—vaccines CARES Act. That is new policy that is away tomorrow maybe or next week. It by the end of this year. That is some- not going to be signed into law. is going to go away when the weather thing we all ought to applaud because If you want to negotiate and hold gets warm. And Dr. Fauci said: No, Mr. of what we did when we came together. small businesses hostage on that, we President, that won’t happen. So, es- But here is an area where we already may never get relief for small busi- sentially, the President dismissed Dr. came together. It was so successful nesses. But that was one of the items Fauci as a principal adviser. Thank- that that money now is frozen, and in the Heroes Act where we had no fully, Mr. Biden, President-elect Biden, those businesses that did well are still agreement. is going to bring him back as the prin- doing well. The ones that aren’t will or cipal adviser, one of the great experts b 1345 will not be alive in a month from now, in the world on vaccines and on infec- But the areas where we had agree- based on whether or not we confront tious diseases. ment, can we at least agree to pass the this. It is not new policy. It is some- So I am somewhat frustrated that we things we have agreement on? thing we already agreed on, and some- focus on one facet. But I will tell you, And what did we have more agree- thing we already celebrated as a suc- if those 12 million people become un- ment on than anything? The PPP, cess. Let’s do that one more time while employed without assistance, they proven to be so successful that literally we negotiate on the things we are in won’t have any money to spend on every day we hear from small busi- disagreement with. small businesses. If those States don’t nesses that say they would not be alive Mr. Speaker, I would just suggest have the ability to operate properly, today if not for the PPP. But we also that, and I yield to the gentleman. that will hurt small businesses. If the hear from small businesses every day Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank transportation system faltered, it will who are about to close. the gentleman for suggesting that. I hurt small businesses. Some States are talking about shut- didn’t hear him talk about the children Mr. Speaker, my point is that we are ting their whole State down again. who are having trouble getting food on e pluribus unum: Out of many, one. We

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.033 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6847 are a nation reliant upon one another, take care of the other problems, the you haven’t even used all that money, and the harm to one results in the small businesses ultimately will not be you can’t use that as an excuse for not harm to the other. Therefore, we be- able to survive either. We are in this doing it, and saying: I am waiting for lieve that there ought to be a com- together. you to give me more money, when you prehensive piece of legislation, as there We do not have a policy on this side still have money remaining. was overwhelmingly supported. of the aisle saying: You are on your And I agree with the gentleman on But the Republicans, after CARES, own, children; you are on your own, un- the school lunch program. The thing and when we passed the Heroes Act in employed; you are on your own, States, there is that we don’t give a supple- May, passed it on May 15, they thought localities, municipals, small towns, ment to schools in normal times. These everything was hunky-dory and they small counties. are not normal times. But in normal walked away. That is not our policy. We are in this times, schools feed kids at lunch with Mr. MCCONNELL said the States can together, and we want to help all of the existing budgets they have. They go bankrupt. Think of the consequence those in distress. don’t wait for us to send extra money that would have had. And, yes, we gave Mr. Speaker, I don’t know that I will to them to feed the kids. them some money under CARES. No- have anything more to say on this par- If they are not educating the kids in body, when we voted on CARES, ticular item, but I am appreciative of the classroom, they are still taking thought we would be where we are Mr. CHABOT’s bill. I hope that his bill is that money. I haven’t seen them rebate today. Nobody, except Dr. Fauci, and included, and I hope that we can pass the money to those families in commu- some other experts, scientists, medical something next week to help all of nities. personnel, said: Look, this thing is those in deep distress. That would be So what are they doing with that going to come back, that is what hap- good for our country. It is the right money? pens with these pandemics. They have thing to do. It is the moral thing to do, If you bring the kids back and edu- an original assault, and then they and I hope we do it. I will facilitate it cate them safely in the classroom, come back. And they came back with a when we get to an agreement. I thank which the protocols allow for in any vengeance, and people are losing their the gentleman. community, high risk, low risk, if you lives. Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank have got a high outbreak, there are dif- And the failure to pass a comprehen- the gentleman, too. In terms of our ferent ways to handle each community. sive bill—we agree, we want to help children, we know sending them back The CDC has given them guidelines. these small businesses. Heroes 1 helped to school safely, the protocols are out The Academy of Pediatrics have given small businesses. Heroes 2, you didn’t there. Child nutrition programs are ad- them guidelines. Some school systems vote for those. You said they were par- ministered in our schools. That is not have chosen not to follow them and tisan. I am not sure what was partisan happening because the kids are in leave the kids at home, but they are about them. They were no more par- those systems where they are not safe- still taking the money. tisan than the CARES Act was par- ly reopened. Those kids aren’t able to b 1400 tisan. Mr. Speaker, the difference was, get the school lunch programs. very frankly, the Republicans decided Mr. HOYER. Will the gentleman There has never been a better argu- they were going to vote for CARES, yield? ment for school choice and letting par- and then they decided, we have done Mr. SCALISE. I yield to the gen- ents choose. If one school system is enough. And we have been twisting in tleman from Maryland. willing to educate your child safely and the wind now for 6 months since we Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I don’t the other is not, why shouldn’t you be passed Heroes. know about your school system, but able to take that money and send your I don’t want to make a speculation of my school system is still providing child to the place that is willing to do how many hundreds of thousands or meals for kids either as a pick-up at it safely for you? tens of thousands of lives may have the school or delivery at some site, be- It is not a question of the money. It been saved had we passed Heroes 1, or cause that is a critical problem, but is a question of the will to do it. we acted much sooner out of the ad- they need money to do that. We know But when we talk about those busi- ministration. But I am hopeful we can that food banks are stretched, and we nesses and what was in the CARES Act get rid of all this ‘‘who struck John, need to deal with that program. That is and what wasn’t, the CARES Act was you did it, I did it, who did it,’’ and my point. It is not just small busi- not the Heroes Act. I think the gen- come to grips in the next 7 days, maybe nesses. It is that nutrition program. tleman knows some of the differences. 14 days. There is no reason why we I just wanted to clarify that in my I will tell the gentleman a few of the can’t come to an agreement. school districts, we are delivering differences. There is a bipartisan group in the meals, notwithstanding the fact that What is in the Heroes Act that is not United States Senate, Republicans and schools are shut down. in the CARES Act that we all voted for Democrats, who have come up with a Let me say something else just as an was letting thousands, an unknown bill, $908 billion. Now, that is a lot of aside. Three of my counties have a ma- number of thousands, of criminals out money. But what they try to do is deal jority, if not unanimous, county com- of prison. I have never gotten a with all of the issues that I have missioners who are all Republican. straight answer on how many thou- raised, and they do. Maybe not as much They have all voted to keep the school sands of criminals would be let out of as I think we ought to do, maybe not as systems virtual, as have my other prison or why that even needs to be in specifically targeted as I think, but it counties. a COVID relief package. But that is in is a basis for agreement. And I hope the I represent five counties, essentially, the Heroes Act, which was not in the Senate passes it. I hope they pass it or parts thereof. They have all voted. CARES Act, and we are completely in next week and send it over to us. Hearing from parents and teachers, and disagreement on that. I guarantee you when they send it perhaps some students, they are all vir- Why it hasn’t been dropped out, who over to us, we will act on it. We won’t tual. They will need as much money to knows, but that is a choice the major- leave it sitting, as Heroes 1 and Heroes continue virtuality as they will to get ity made. Again, sending direct checks, 2 have sat in the Senate for 6 months, kids back in school. They need extra billions of dollars in direct checks, to or 21⁄2 months. We won’t let it sit. resources to do that. people that are here illegally was not Why? The $908 billion bill that is agreed or in the CARES Act; it is in the Heroes Because the country is at risk. Our proposed by a bipartisan group in the Act. If we wanted to make it bipar- people are at risk. Our children are at Senate has money in that bill for those tisan, drop those things out. But they risk. Our families are at risk. programs. haven’t been dropped out by the major- Mr. Speaker, as you so correctly Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, those ity, and here we have a program that point out, the whip points out that our schools already have access to the $150 we agree on. businesses are at risk. He is absolutely billion that we sent the States that But in terms of the small businesses, right and we need to act. But if we only they haven’t even already spent. If I the small businesses are dying on the act on small businesses and we don’t gave you money to do something and vine because some States are giving

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.035 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6848 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 mixed signals, changing rules, going children even though somebody who is If the gentleman has nothing else, backward, forward. In States like Cali- illegal is living in the household. then I would be happy to yield back. fornia, they are saying you can operate What they want to have done is no- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I have as a liquor store or as a strip club but body in that household got help. It is nothing else. not as a church. Even the Supreme just a difference of perspective. And I Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I yield Court stepped in and said that is ludi- get it. back the balance of my time. But let me tell you something. What crous and that you can’t keep doing it. f But you go to New York and so many you can’t get away from is, Mr. Speak- of these States where they are saying er, they have not passed a bill through RESIGNATION FROM THE HOUSE for safety protocols you have to shut the United States Senate. Why? Be- OF REPRESENTATIVES cause it would require compromise. Be- down and you can’t go to a restaurant, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. cause you don’t have the votes, Mr. and then you see the Governor of the HARDER of California) laid before the Speaker, in the Republican Party to State at a restaurant without a mask. House the following resignation from pass a bill without compromise. So But you can’t go. You see mayors in the House of Representatives: communities telling businesses they they have sent us no bill. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, can’t stay open or it is not safe to have Now, Mr. MCCONNELL can say all he wants: Well, we need 60 votes, and they Washington, DC, December 7, 2020. Thanksgiving with your family, and Ms. NANCY PELOSI, you find out they are flying to other won’t give us 60 votes. Speaker, House of Representatives, He is right. And he won’t com- States to have Thanksgiving with their Washington, DC. promise. DEAR SPEAKER PELOSI: I hereby submit my family. Your side, on a regular basis when This blatant hypocrisy by some of resignation, effective Monday, December 7, you were in charge, couldn’t pass a lot these leaders who are telling you that 2020 at 12:00 p.m. EST, as the United States of pieces of legislation that had to be you have to live your life one way and Representative of the 8th District of Cali- passed, and what did John Boehner do? fornia. Attached is the letter I submitted to they are living their lives a different Walked over here and said: Madam the California Secretary of State. way, and hiding behind protocols that Leader, Mr. Whip, can you help us? Sincerely, don’t exist, that is driving people nuts. And we did. President Bush asked for PAUL COOK. The businesses are dying because of it. TARP. He couldn’t get the votes on The trust in government gets de- your side. Where did he come? To our HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Washington, DC, December 7, 2020. pleted in those places because they are side. We passed it, which saved the watching. And it is not isolated. I wish Hon. ALEX PADILLA, country from a depression. Secretary of State, California Department of it was just once or twice. I wish it was So when you are talking about all never going on. But it is over and over State, Sacramento, CA. this stuff, we sent two bills. You didn’t DEAR SECRETARY PADILLA: I hereby submit again, yesterday and today another like them, fine. Pass something my resignation, effective Monday, December story comes out of a local leader or a through the Senate. But it would have 7, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. EST, as the United States governor telling you that you can’t do required compromise, and Mr. MCCON- Representative of the 8th District of Cali- something, and they are doing it. They NELL offered no such compromise. fornia. Attached is the letter I submitted to didn’t think they were going to get I think, frankly, we ought to move the Speaker of the United States House of caught doing it. My God, that has to on because I don’t think we can beat Representatives. Sincerely, end. The hypocrisy has to end. this horse anymore. We are not going PAUL COOK. Let’s get back to saying things that to agree. But pass a bill. Have a com- make sense, working with the proto- prehensive bill that helps those chil- f cols, working with the experts and the dren, that helps those unemployed, MARKING A VICTORY FOR scientists. But don’t use a scientist se- that helps those renters who can’t pay VIETNAM VETERANS lectively and say something that is not their rent and are going to be evicted. really true and you, yourself, know it Do you think that helps small busi- (Mr. HARDER of California asked is not true because you are doing it. nesses? Do you think it helps grocery and was given permission to address That is what some of those folks are stores? Do you think it helps barber- the House for 1 minute and to revise doing. It is driving people nuts, and it shops? Do you think it helps gasoline and extend his remarks.) is driving their businesses under. They stations? It does not because they are Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. will never come back. going belly up, and they don’t have any Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a Those families that are struggling resources. long-overdue victory for our Vietnam and the kids that are going to have We are in this together. What I keep veterans. trouble eating are having that trouble telling him, Mr. Speaker, and what I For decades, tens of thousands of because the businesses that their fami- keep telling my side, as well, we are in Vietnam vets haven’t got the benefits lies work for are being bankrupted by this together, and we need to help ev- that they deserve. Even though dis- crazy, radical policies that have to end. eryone who is in such distress, not just eases like Parkinson’s, hyper- We can help them in the short term. small businesses. We need to help small thyroidism, and bladder cancer are sci- We ought to help them in the short businesses. entifically linked to Agent Orange, term. The airlines continue to say they are they still aren’t covered by the VA. Some of the stuff I mentioned that going to stop flying. This doesn’t help But, today, I am thrilled to say that we are not in agreement on ought to them. veterans exposed to Agent Orange can get dropped out. But in the meantime, Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, if we finally stop fighting their own govern- don’t hold them hostage. Let’s bring wanted to pass another CARES Act- ment because my bill, the Fair Care for those things that we agree on to the type piece of legislation, as we have Veterans Act, is on track to become floor and save the businesses that we seen in both other CARES Act bills, the law of the land. can because every day we don’t, more you have a lot of willingness and inter- I want to dedicate this effort to Josh- will never come back. est on this side of the aisle, which was ua Melendez of Modesto, California, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gen- there on both of those votes. Clearly, and Lyle Ducheneaux of Turlock, Cali- tleman. there are things in Heroes that there is fornia, two local veterans who will per- Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I just want no bipartisan consensus on. sonally be impacted by this change. to say, this business about illegals get- So, our party is willing and ready to Most of all, I want to dedicate this ting money, let me just give you an ex- go another round on those items we effort to my grandfather, First Ser- ample. You have a husband and wife agree on, and not months from now, geant Albert Z. Simmons, whose life and three children living in an apart- not months ago, as it should have been was cut tragically short by Agent Or- ment. The husband does not have au- done. It should be done today. Hope- ange. I wish he could be with us today thorization to be here. What the bill fully, it will be done when we return. I to see this. provided for, that the gentleman talks would be happy to work with the gen- These veterans fought for us. It has about, is making sure we feed those tleman on those items. been my honor to fight for them. God

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.037 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6849 bless you, and thank you for your serv- 1980 and has been a volunteer for the defender of the weak, devoted to truth, ice. event for 29 years. dedicated to his loved ones, and strong f Dr. Eutsler’s consecutive years of in his faith and love of the Lord. service stand out among the more than Andrew has gone above and beyond THANKING STAFF MEMBERS 3,000 volunteers who will fill roughly to provide support for his fellow law (Mr. SHIMKUS asked and was given 7,000 positions for the month-long May enforcement officers through the 10–35 permission to address the House for 1 event every year. organization. His dedication to never minute and to revise and extend his re- Dr. Mark Eutsler is a pillar of the forget officers who have fallen in the marks.) community. I express my deepest line of duty should be an example to all Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, as rank- thanks and appreciation for his passion of us to remember those who have paid ing member on the Subcommittee of and for the service he has devoted to a the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of all Environment and Climate Change, I program that defines Hoosier heritage. of our freedoms. want to thank Chief Counsel Mary f Andrew’s service as Placer County Martin, Deputy Chief Counsel Jerry Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant has made HONORING ZEENATH HUSSAIN Couri, and senior professional staff our area a safe place to live, a better member, Peter Spencer, for their tre- (Mr. LEVIN of Michigan asked and one, a better one to raise our kids. mendous support of me and common- was given permission to address the I consider Andrew a true friend, and sense, practical legislation that has House for 1 minute and to revise and I wish him the best during his retire- protected human health and the envi- extend his remarks.) ment. ronment and supports jobs and the Mr. LEVIN of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, f economy. I rise to honor my retiring director of WE HAVE A JOB TO DO If the public knew how hard that constituent services, Zeenath Hussain. committee staff members work, they It may not be common to speak on the (Mr. PAPPAS asked and was given would have a better appreciation of our floor of this House about a staffer, but permission to address the House for 1 government. Mary, Jerry, Peter, you Zee is truly an extraordinary public minute and to revise and extend his re- have my personal thanks. servant and human being. marks.) I would also be remiss if I didn’t In 2004, Zee answered an ad for a staff Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise thank the loyal opposition, Democrat assistant position in my dad’s, Sandy today because our country is in trou- Staff Director Rick Kessler and Demo- Levin’s, district office. Over the years, ble. We are facing a devastating pan- crat Senior Counsel Jackie Cohen. Al- she built an incomparable network of demic, an economic crisis, and things though many times adversaries, both relationships with officials in an as- will continue to get worse if Congress have become friends. tounding array of Federal agencies and fails to act. an unmatched mastery of how to solve I can’t imagine there is a Member of f virtually any constituent problem. this body who has not had the same INVESTING IN JUSTICE REFORM Even after 16 years of service, in a conversations I have had with small pandemic causing untold suffering and business owners, healthcare profes- (Mr. HALL asked and was given per- sionals, local leaders, educators, and mission to address the House for 1 chaos, Zee listened to each constituent attentively, leveled with people when workers out of a job. minute and to revise and extend his re- People are exasperated. They are marks.) necessary, and comforted and reassured every family member. hurting and they are tired. They feel Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sup- like Washington isn’t coming through port of the MORE Act, and I urge our In addition to her tireless work for constituents, Zeenath took care of ev- for them, and they are right. colleagues in the Senate to do the We have a job to do, not as Repub- same. eryone around her, mentoring genera- tions of congressional staff, dispensing licans or Democrats, but as Represent- There is a serious need for justice re- atives who are here to serve the people form in our country, a focus on restor- advice about life, and cooking to-die- for Indian meals for the office and any- in our districts and secure the future of ative financial justice. Investment in this Nation. research, along with descheduling, is one who happened by. Zee, I reluctantly admit you have This week, Members of the House and something that we must lead on. Senate announced a framework for COVID innovation zones in our coun- richly earned the right to retire from your job, but I hasten to add that there COVID relief legislation. It is not ev- try might be a strategy for bringing bi- erything everyone wants, no com- partisan solutions that create jobs but is no retiring from friendship or from love. promise is, but it will fundamentally also dealing with this terrible pan- save lives and keep our economy mov- demic. f ing forward. f b 1415 Heading home for the holidays with- out addressing this crisis will have dis- HONORING DR. MARK EUTSLER RECOGNIZING PLACER COUNTY astrous consequences, so let’s all com- SHERIFF ANDREW SCOTT (Mr. BAIRD asked and was given per- mit ourselves to this process of finding mission to address the House for 1 (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given a way forward and getting to ‘‘yes.’’ minute and to revise and extend his re- permission to address the House for 1 f marks.) minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. BAIRD. Mr. Speaker, today, I marks.) THE CORONAVIRUS IS EXPLODING rise to honor Linden, Indiana, resident Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Mr. PANETTA asked and was given Dr. Mark Eutsler. today to recognize Placer County, Cali- permission to address the House for 1 This year marks the 25th year that fornia, Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant An- minute and to revise and extend his re- Dr. Eutsler has co-chaired the nation- drew Scott and his 30 years of dignified marks.) ally televised IPL 500 Festival Parade. service. Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, the Using his experience as the former di- Since joining the sheriff’s office in coronavirus is exploding, our hospitals rector of bands at McCutcheon High 1990, Lieutenant Scott has worked in are bursting, and many parts of our School, he has helped over 45,000 stu- nearly every capacity. I personally saw economy are hurting. It is no wonder dents from 425 Indiana schools partici- his outstanding leadership and dedica- why Fed Chair Powell and so many pate in the nationally acclaimed IPL tion as a Placer County Deputy Sher- other economists are warning about 500 Festival Parade. iff’s Association president. the long-term damage that could be Prior to his appointment as co-chair, Over the decade I have known him, I done if we don’t pass another stimulus Dr. Eutsler has served as an enthusi- have witnessed his love and passion for package soon. astic supporter of the Indianapolis 500 the public safety of his community. He We passed the CARES Act earlier Festival for decades. Mark has at- is a shining example of what a warrior, this year, and that did keep our econ- tended the parade consistently since a man of God, embodies: a true friend, omy afloat and our poverty rate flat,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.039 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6850 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 but because of the pandemic, we are ex- commitment and determination to bring our the commitment that you have indi- periencing over 1 million cases a week beloved Austin safely home. cated on this letter. It would bring joy and 2,000 deaths a day. Yesterday there was a news story from the unlike any these parents have ever ex- Because of that, we are finding our- region that Austin Tice had been released and was on a plane headed home. Our phones perienced if you would do so. selves in more self-induced economic were going crazy, our email was exploding, So, Mr. President, I salute you. I sa- comas, just like we are seeing in my Twitter, Facebook, Instagram—every kind of lute you for your desire and commit- State of California and my district on social media was buzzing with an outpouring ment to bring Austin home. And I sus- the central coast of California. of high hopes and great joy. Many, many pect that it has a lot to do with the We can’t wait any longer for another news outlets reached out eagerly hoping to fact that he is an American citizen, but economic package. That is why Demo- verify this great news. I also suspect, Mr. President, that it crats and Republicans of the Problem We know you can make this joyful news a has a lot to do with what you know reality. We know the Syrians are ready to Solvers Caucus worked with a bipar- about Austin. tisan group of Senators to come up work with you. Please, please bring Austin home for the Austin is an American hero, a vet- with a targeted and temporary package holidays. eran captain of the Marine Corps. Aus- of close to $1 trillion to meet our most Respectfully, tin loved his country. He was willing to pressing needs. It is a compromise that DEBRA TICE. fight for it and, if necessary, sacrifice can be a way to ‘‘yes’’ for both Houses his life for it. and both sides to come together. Debra—Working so hard on this. Looking for the answer. We want Austin back. I will Austin played by the rules. In col- Mr. Speaker, it is going to be a dark lege, at age 16, he wanted to be a law- winter, so it is our obligation to our never stop— DONALD J. TRUMP. yer. But also, Austin was one of those constituents to come to the table to rare, unique persons who not only negotiate and pass a pandemic relief Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, wants to help, but who is willing to go package to help us get on the road to while they have asked me to extend to great lengths, great extremes to be recovery this spring. their gratitude, I personally would like of service. f to thank the Tice family for their un- wavering commitment to have Austin He was a freelance journalist, as you BRING AUSTIN TICE HOME returned home and allow him to be know, Mr. President, and as such, he The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. with his family and his friends. was willing to go into harm’s way to HARDER of California). Under the They also wished that I would thank places that most of us would never go Speaker’s announced policy of January President Trump on their behalf. I into to be of service, to help people. So 3, 2019, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. have a letter that is the best evidence Austin decided that he would take his GREEN) is recognized for 60 minutes as of why they would have President talents and his desires to Syria. the designee of the majority leader. Trump be thanked for what he has He went to Syria, and he crossed over Mr. GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, done. the Syrian border in May of 2012. In and still I rise. The letter reads: ‘‘Friday, 13 Novem- August of 2012, he was detained at a I rise today on behalf of my constitu- ber 2020. checkpoint someplace near Damascus, ents, Marc and Debra Tice, the parents ‘‘Dear President Trump, and he has been missing ever since. of Austin Tice. ‘‘Thank you, from the entire Tice There have been what we call in the Marc and Debra have asked that I ex- family, for your steadfast commitment intelligence agencies, I believe, signs tend their sincerest gratitude to the and determination to bring our beloved and proof of life. We know that he is House of Representatives, all of its Austin safely home. alive, and we know that 8 years of this leadership and membership, for the ‘‘Yesterday there was a news story experience is taking a toll on Austin. passage of H. Res. 17, a resolution that, from the region that Austin Tice had Austin deserves our greatest efforts in effect, supports the President’s de- been released and was on a plane head- to bring him home, because Austin is sire to bring their son home. ed home. Our phones were going crazy, an American hero. His parents are in Hence, Mr. Speaker, pursuant to our email was exploding, Twitter, need of his touch, of his presence. They their request, I thank Speaker PELOSI, Facebook, Instagram—every kind of need to hug their son. because I had a personal conversation social media was buzzing with an out- So the appeal has been made, and, with Speaker PELOSI about this resolu- pouring of high hopes and great joy. Mr. President, you have said that you tion, and I believe that that led to its Many, many news outlets reached out believe that you will do everything coming to the floor. eagerly hoping to verify this great that you can. I am paraphrasing. You I thank Majority Leader HOYER. He, good news. said you will never stop and that you in effect, orchestrated the bringing of ‘‘We know you can make this joyful are looking for the answer. this resolution to the floor. news a reality. We know the Syrians I believe the answer is within your I thank Congressman HILL for his are ready to work with you. power, and I believe the Tice family support of the resolution at the com- ‘‘Please, please bring Austin home will be eternally grateful, as will most mittee level and for his efforts to bring for the holidays.’’ Americans, if you will bring their son his constituent, Dr. Kamalmaz, home. It is signed, ‘‘Respectfully, Debra I thank the outgoing chair of the home and do so before Christmas. Tice,’’ Austin’s mother. On behalf of the Tice family, Mr. Foreign Affairs Committee, Mr. ELIOT The President is known to respond to President, I salute you for your desire ENGEL, for his efforts to bring the reso- letters of this kind by simply writing and your commitment to bring him lution out of committee. on a copy of the letter a message to be I also thank the ranking member, the home. returned to the sender. Texan, Mr. MCCAUL, who is a person Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance I shall read the President’s state- who has worked with me on many en- of my time. ment: deavors. He made this bipartisan early The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- ‘‘Debra—Working so hard on this— bers are reminded to address their re- on, and I thank him for what he has Looking for the answer. We want Aus- done to help us get it through the com- marks to the Chair, not to a perceived tin back. I will never stop.’’ viewing audience. mittee. Mr. President, I salute you for your I thank Senator CORNYN, Senator desire and your commitment to bring f MURRAY, the 41 cosponsors of H. Res. Austin home. And, Mr. President, I 17, the 52 Senators and 152 Representa- b 1430 pray that it will be done before Christ- tives who signed on to a letter to the mas. It would be a wonderful thing, Mr. ISSUES OF THE DAY President. President, for this family that you now The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD a letter from Debra Tice to President know and you have communicated the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- Trump. with, for this family that has suffered uary 3, 2019, the gentleman from Texas FRIDAY, 13 NOVEMBER 2020. for some 8 years without their son. (Mr. GOHMERT) is recognized for 60 min- DEAR PRESIDENT TRUMP, Thank you, from You would do well and serve them utes as the designee of the minority the entire Tice family, for your steadfast well, Mr. President, if you would honor leader.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.041 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6851 Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, at this There have also been times to engage at all has impacted me more than time it is an honor to yield to the gen- in a more stern manner, serving on the standing there on the shores there at tleman from North Carolina (Mr. House Oversight Committee with Normandy. And as our guide began to WALKER), my friend that is apparently Chairman Jason Chaffetz. Chairman talk that day, I thought about this for in his last term in this body. Hopefully, Chaffetz did a wonderful job as the the first time. he will be serving in another body. House Oversight Chairman as we went History shows us that those young REFLECTIONS ON THE PRIVILEGE OF SERVICE IN after and questioned some of the un- men were supposed to have air cover THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS scrupulous behavior of James Comey but, because of the horrific weather, Mr. WALKER. Mr. Speaker, I thank and Pharma Bro. In fact, I still think there was none. That day wasn’t won the gentleman from Texas for yielding. Peter Strzok doesn’t really care for by military might; wasn’t won by great Today, as we wrap up three terms, we me, but that is okay because some- generals or colonels and military ge- could not be more overwhelmed with times the job requires it. nius. Our freedom today, we can trace the privilege that it has been to serve One of the moments that stand out back to that moment, was won by 18- the people of North Carolina, specifi- on the House Oversight Committee was and 19-year-old young men who kept cally, central North Carolina, in the questioning Cecile Richards, Mr. running up that hill, one wave after United States Congress. Speaker, when I asked her specifically: the other. What a powerful place and I am the oldest of three boys, Mr. Does it bother you that there are more what a privilege it is to see these real Speaker, of a Baptist preacher from the African-American babies aborted in heroes. Panhandle of Florida and have had the New York State than actually born? I Arthur Ashe put it this way when he privilege to live in North Carolina will never forget that she was not even talked about heroism. He said: True since 1991. Coming out of college, and aware of that statistic. heroism is remarkably sober, very having the opportunity to work, spend- Nor did I shy away from the fights on undramatic. It is not the urge to sur- ing 16 years as a pastor, and then the this floor. Probably the darkest or the pass all others at whatever cost, but last 6 years of serving in a different ca- heaviest moment was when we were the urge to serve all others at whatever pacity. working and going back and forth late cost. What an honor to be able to walk the into the night on the born alive amend- In our 6 years, we have tried not to halls and to be able to think about the ment. And I cannot help remembering stick with the talking points. Maybe history that has made this country just the heaviness and the oppression we have had a little bit of a different what it is today. approach serving in Congress. I never We were blessed to hit the ground of that night, as only three of my col- surrendered my voting card either to running, becoming the first Member leagues on the Democratic side stood since its inception in 1973 to be elected up and said a baby that survives a the establishment, to leadership, or chairman at the end of their first term botched abortion should have the right any special interest group. Mr. Speaker, I believe the best kind of the largest caucus, the conservative to stay alive. of representative that you could have caucus of the Republican Study Com- I struggled with that. I still struggle mittee. with it. In fact, I think it is apparently is someone who is pledging to represent Recently, I have enjoyed extending evil not to be able to stand up and fight all communities. You see, America is and wrapping up a term as the vice for all of us who are created in the the greatest country and the longest- chair of the GOP Conference. What a image of God. lasting republic in the history of the privilege it has been to serve the bulk We have heard other comments. The world; but the truth is, we didn’t get it of that time as cochairman with Sen- dogma lives loudly. Even a good friend all right to start with. ator JAMES LANKFORD of the Prayer and colleague from Illinois that was We first launched this idea of indi- Caucus. It has been a wonderful time to pro-life, that was someone who advo- vidual liberty and opportunity, but it gather each Monday evening—in fact, cated, is no longer part of the body and took a few people and a few years to many people don’t even know the Pray- was basically run out of town. I strug- get it right: The likes of Frederick er Caucus exists—for us to gather on gle with those things. Douglass, George White, Shirley Chis- that Monday evening after we fly in If our rights come from our Creator holm, Jackie Robinson, Mahalia Jack- and for many years to gather in room and, as our Founding Fathers said they son, my friend, Clarence Henderson, 219, right off to my right, and seek have in the past, do they not also come and so many more heroes. But here’s God’s guidance as we prayed for con- from the Creator in the present and in the cool part of the story: We never stituents and we prayed for the Lord to the future? quit trying until our actions matched give us the hope and direction for this Not too far behind us here is the ro- our words that in America all men country. tunda. There are eight pictures in the would be created equal. I have lots of reflections over these rotunda. The first four are depictions One of the privileges that I have had last 6 years. I think of having a chance of our settlers, the people who founded is to serve with John Lewis and cross to be the starting pitcher for the Re- this country who came here. In all four the Edmund Pettus Bridge and to publican baseball team, an exhibition of those pictures, there is a depiction spend some time hearing his story and game for charity. Every year has been of Christianity. hearing his history, because I believe quite a treat. The other four are depictions of our this, whether Republicans or Demo- I am sure many of my Republican Founding Fathers. The last one is my crats, relationship is the conduit for friends are glad to see that the Honor- favorite. It is George Washington. The good policy. People before the politics. able CEDRIC RICHMOND is now senior ad- picture is of George Washington, De- You don’t have to throw out what viser to another gentleman and no cember 23, 1783, and in his hand he has you believe or your values or your longer in the House. his resignation. principles. But are you genuine? Do we But what a privilege it has been to For 8 years, he had been the com- show up? Do we always have to be the see the efforts that goes to the Boys mander in chief of the Revolutionary keynote speaker at times? and Girls Club, Mr. Speaker. And it has Army. Yet, in that letter he writes, I was committed to doing this, to be been neat that this has been a tradi- though he had, potentially the ability, both a conservative and a bridge build- tion since 1909. the military power behind him to be er, and our team committed to that. And there have been other times. something of almost a monarch again, Hardly a week went by that we didn’t There was the moment when I saw he captured something. He realized answer the question, are we making an STEVE SCALISE, our whip, come back that if this country was going to be argument, or are we making a dif- from our teammates being shot at that great, he had the foresight in that let- ference? morning, and how he came back and ter to write that the power had to In this town, those who make the has come back strong; and how he has come from we, the people. What a pow- most noise sometimes get the key always represented his faith in a way erful expression. roles. But in looking back, making the that I think has impacted potentially As I think back over the last 6 years, difference is ultimately the prize. far beyond any political work that he I have traveled different places, 20- The successes? I believe it is simple; may do in this House. something different countries. No place staying close to the Lord and having

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.044 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6852 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 the people pray and wrap their arms undeserved, yet You gave to prove Senate, ‘‘ignorant.’’ HAWLEY re- around us. Your love for me; the voices of a mil- sponded: ‘‘#China not happy about my So many times, after spending a lion angels could not express my grati- call to confront their economic impe- week in this arena, this gladiator tude. All that I am and ever hope to be, rialism by ending the WTO and replac- arena, you go back home depleted and I owe it all to Thee. To God be the ing it with a system that is good for kind of worn out. And I will never be glory.’’ American workers. I love being in- able to express my gratitude to the Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank sulted by #China state-run press.’’ people who lifted their arms up and my friend. He has been a real asset Pinkerton noted that Chen has been prayed for us week after week. here in the House, and I look forward the beneficiary of many liberal pro- A couple of months ago, I met Freddy to more accomplishments in the days grams in the U.S. in New Bern, North Carolina. Freddy’s to come. Chen lists on his blue-checkmark a little street vendor with his guitar, Speaking of people I have served verified Twitter bio he was a John S. and he had his guitar case open and with, now she is a Senator, MARSHA Knight Journalism Fellow at Stanford was hoping to make a few bucks. I had BLACKBURN of Tennessee, very proud of and a World Press Institute Fellow at a chance to harmonize with him as he her home State. She is doing a great Macalester College in Minnesota. He played Let My Little Light Shine. job as a Senator, just as she did a great also listed the Freedom Forum in What a reminder this season that, ul- job in the House. Washington, D.C. timately, what our calling is, it is to She has become the object of ridicule So isn’t that special. Perhaps one of let our light shine. by a Chinese state-owned media editor. these institutions is where he learned I think of Luke 2; I think of all the This article was written by Christina to call women witches, spelled what a different things in this season that Wong, December 3. It says: The Euro- B wherever it was. He is not a very po- mean so much. pean Union Bureau Chief and col- lite person and is very defensive of In this city, there are some ups and umnist for Chinese state-run media being part of a misogynistic, sexist, downs, there are some double-crosses, outlet China Daily lodged a profane in- racist, and religion-hating administra- but I can tell you, I leave today with sult at U.S. Senator MARSHA BLACK- tion. He is apparently proud of that. It no bitterness, no axe to grind, not BURN, Republican from Tennessee, on is very unfortunate. jaded, with a genuine love for my col- Thursday in a tweet. But I am proud of Senator BLACK- leagues. BLACKBURN, a respected conservative BURN. We are known by our friends, but I specifically have to point out three Senator who is a hawk on China, we are known even more by our en- that I have had the privilege of getting tweeted Thursday: China has a 5,000 emies, and Senator BLACKBURN has a to know and having dinner with, basi- year history of cheating and stealing. real enemy there. cally, for about 31⁄2 years, almost once Some things never change. I was reminded back early on in my a week, Tuesday evenings with Trey time in China when we went to China. b 1445 Gowdy, Senator TIM SCOTT, and the Di- She and I, the two of us, personally rector of National Intelligence, John Chen Weihua, EU bureau chief and confronted, in Beijing, the Chinese bu- Ratcliffe. I love these men. They have columnist for China Daily, then re- reaucrat in charge of enforcing copy- impacted my life. There were times the sponded to her tweet with: Witch, right and patent fraud, which was just fellowship and the joy and the laugh- spelled with a B, Senator BLACKBURN. overwhelming in China. The amount ter, and even the merciless cutdowns Chen then followed up with another that the state appeared to not only from Mr. Gowdy, were incredibly re- tweet that said: This is the most racist allow but actually be involved in was warding and timely. and ignorant U.S. Senator I have seen. pretty staggering. At one point, either But there are people behind the A lifetime witch, spelled with a B at MARSHA or I asked: Why do you allow scenes here in Washington, D.C., names the start of the word. all of this patent fraud and copyright that you will never know, but people The gentlewoman retweeted his one- theft to go on? like Everette, Carmelita, Lloyd, the word reply to BLACKBURN. BLACKBURN The Chinese bureaucrat indicated people behind the scenes that continue responded a couple of hours later in a that, actually, they don’t. They step to impact. statement. She said: ‘‘From in, and, in fact, he said the year before, In closing today, I would be remiss if Tiananmen Square to Uighur genocide, they had seized the assets from 500 dif- I didn’t acknowledge the people that Communist China is an expert at ferent vendors who were selling made this possible, both in North Caro- slaughtering populations. America will copyright- or patent-infringed goods. lina and here in Washington, D.C. My not bow down to sexist Communist Whether DVDs, CDs, things that vio- appreciation to Janine, Grace, Joel, thugs.’’ lated Americans’ patents, they seized Bradley, Kyle, Phillip, Emily, Dwayne, Breitbart News’ James Pinkerton them. Olga, Jerome, Amber, Cory, Ryan, profiled Chen in May. He wrote: ‘‘Chen I said: So what did you do with what Kevin, Madeline, Dan, Alexa, Carson, Weihua works for the government- you seized? Sruthi, Sean, Janae, Alison, Rudy, owned China Daily, reliably cranking I don’t know Chinese law, but his in- Kate, Katie, Louis, Davis, Rusty, Zach, out articles with headlines such as dication was that, well, under Chinese Scott, Arian, Josh, Carter, Keifer, ‘White House must concentrate on law, we can’t just destroy goods that Dwayne, Luke, Graham, Lauren, Brian, fighting outbreak, not China-bashing,’ have value, so we had to do something and two chiefs, Scott and Jack, and a and, ‘Washington must stop making de- with them. deputy chief, Julie, who has been with cisions which undermine WHO.’ It appeared very clear that they me since the very beginning. I am ‘‘In other words, his journalistic out- seized these assets that were violating proud of you guys. We made a dif- put nicely coincides with the People’s international trade, copyright, and ference. Republic of China’s propaganda plans, patent laws. If they are not allowed to Mr. Speaker, I would also like to con- from deflecting blame for the destroy such goods, then, obviously, clude by thanking my family, Ryan, coronavirus away from Beijing to de- they had to get rid of them since they Rachel, Anna Claire, and Kelly. Thank fending Beijing’s minions at the World felt they had value. So, the Chinese you for allowing me to do something Health Organization.’’ Government must have gotten into the that is considered pretty special by Chen has previously tweeted: ‘‘Trump business of selling copyright- and pat- many. and Pompeo are not even good liars.’’ ent-infringed goods. So, there is not a To my mom and dad, thank you for Pinkerton noted that Chen bashes lot of comfort there. investing in me and putting in the val- the President and his administration MARSHA and I did talk back then, and ues. reliably, but also eagerly, echoing top once you get away from the center of So, Mr. Speaker, I would like to close Democrats and leading never Trump- the Chinese Communist Party in Bei- right now by expressing it may be in ers. jing and you get around to different the words of Andrae Crouch: Chen has also called Senator JOSH cities in China, Mr. Speaker, we were ‘‘How can I say thanks for the things HAWLEY, a Republican from Missouri, both reminded they were so hospitable, You have done for me? Things so another leading China hawk in the so gracious, and so wanting you to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.045 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6853 have a good experience in their towns. again expanded its hate speech policies b 1500 It reminded us both of Southern hospi- to ‘prohibit language that dehumanizes Consistent with that, from Just the tality here in the U.S. The people were people on the basis of race, ethnicity, News, David Payne—it is a story about absolutely wonderful, Mr. Speaker. or national origin.’ ’’ what has been going on. You just had to get away from the cen- That is really rich coming from Twit- Sworn testimony of several whistle- tral government before you saw just ter since they embrace the Chinese blowers on Tuesday—and this isn’t like how wonderful and fantastic the Chi- Communist Party and their hatred and the fake whistleblower against Presi- nese people are. their dehumanization of Uighurs, dent Trump that didn’t actually hear But in Beijing, you have the hotbed Christians, and people who want to the conversation. He was basing it on have more than one child, and based on of Communist Party activity. Al- double hearsay. These are actually race, ethnicity, and national origin. though there are some in the United whistleblowers who had firsthand States who are wanting to get to being ‘‘Engadget reports that social media platform Twitter has expanded its hate knowledge of what went on. And when a Communist nation as quickly as pos- they testified under oath from those sible, we see, anytime there is a Com- speech policies again, this time to ‘pro- hibit language that dehumanizes peo- who say there is no evidence, it is un- munist government, it is not good for founded to say there was fraud, it is the people at all. ple.’ ’’ And on it goes: ‘‘The change in policy not their fault they are saying that, it Another story from Simon Kent, De- is just they are very uneducated. cember 1: ‘‘No Twitter ‘Fact-Check’ comes more than 2 years after Twitter said that it intended to ban dehuman- So to help with that, when a witness Warning on Chinese Official’s Fake has firsthand knowledge, personally Photo of Australian Soldier Beheading izing language and over 6 months from that last change to the site’s policies observe, personally saw something Child.’’ occur, and they put that in a sworn af- A lot of people have seen the photo, that banned hate speech relating to age, disability, and disease.’’ fidavit, then we have evidence. It is not yes, but the Chinese produced a photo unfounded. I know people that have that was falsified. The Australian sol- So, anyway, again, if it weren’t for double standards, Twitter would have said that. It is not their fault. They are dier was not about to behead a child. It just ignorant, uneducated on what is is just more fake information out of no standards at all. This article from Rich Noyes, No- evidence and what isn’t. But sworn tes- the Chinese Communist Party. vember 24, ‘‘The Stealing of the 2020 timony is evidence when it is first per- I guess if you are Twitter, Mr. Speak- Presidency: The Media Kept the Truth son. er, that is not something you would From Americans’’: ‘‘A new study shows And there are some exceptions to the fact-check. You only want to fact- that if the media didn’t apply a leftist hearsay rule that lots of articles have check honorable and honest people bias to its Presidential news coverage, been written about and discussed in with whom you have disagreements. Donald Trump would have comfortably legal treatises. But in this case, it is You wouldn’t want to fact-check some- won a second term as President. not hearsay for most of these things one who is providing you a lot of ‘‘To measure the true effect of the that have been produced. money despite their retraining camps, media’s censorship on the election, the But sworn testimony of several whistle- their lies, and their official misrepre- Media Research Center asked The Poll- blowers alleged what one election integrity sentations. You wouldn’t want to do ing Company to survey 1,750 Biden vot- activist is calling ‘‘potential ballot fraud on that because they might be tempted to ers in seven swing States—Arizona, a massive scale,’’ with multiple eyewitnesses cut back the revenue to your form of Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North testifying to alleged suspicious behavior in business. Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wis- Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. In a press conference in Arlington, Vir- So, as Chris Plante says, if it weren’t consin—six of which, all but North for double standards, they would have ginia, the Amistad Project—a civil liberties Carolina, were called for Biden. We initiative of the Thomas More Society—pre- no standards at all there at Twitter. tested these voters’ knowledge of eight Twitter expands hate speech rules. sented the testimony of three individuals news stories, all important topics that who claim to have witnessed apparent voting Well, of course, you are not going to go our ongoing analysis had shown the malfeasance—that means wrongdoing for after people who truly are full of hate, liberal news media had failed to cover those that don’t know about evidence—dur- Mr. Speaker. They think conservatives properly. We found that a huge major- ing the 2020 election. are hateful. As a Christian, we are ad- ity, 82 percent, of Biden voters were One, Jesse Morgan, a truck driver for a monished by Jesus to love one another. unaware of at least one of these key subcontractor with the United States Postal We were admonished by Jesus Himself Service, claimed that a trailer he was driv- items, with 5 percent saying they were ing, one full of potentially upwards of 288,000 to love the Lord your God with all your unaware of all eight of the issues we heart, mind, and soul. The second is ballots, disappeared from its parked location tested. at Lancaster, Pennsylvania, U.S. Postal like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. ‘‘This lack of information proved cru- Service depot after Morgan dropped it off So, Christianity is truly a religion cial: One of every six Biden voters we there. Morgan had transported these ballots based completely on love. It is such an surveyed, 17 percent, said they would from Bethpage, New York. incredible thing to base a religion on, have abandoned the Democratic can- Well, that is interesting. You could but that is what it is. God so loved the didate had they known the facts about have 288,000 voting ballots that were world He gave His Son; His Son so one or more of these news stories. A produced in Bethpage, New York, and loved the world He gave His life. Then, shift of this magnitude would have supplied to Pennsylvania—apparently, you have people saying: Well, these changed the outcome in all six of the having already been voted in. And it is Christians and these churches are full swing States won by Joe Biden, and possible that people would want to give of nothing but hate, when actually that Donald Trump would have comfortably them the benefit of the doubt. It is pos- is doing what the Chinese Communist won a second term as President.’’ sible they had 288,000 people from Party does. You are taking something Now, that is from Newsbusters. I Pennsylvania just temporarily residing out of context and actually perverting really like those folks, but they are in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and want- the actual beliefs of Christianity. wrong about that. As we saw from the ed to vote absentee in the Pennsyl- Twitter is expanding hate speech results and what occurred, and we are vania election. rules that will allow them to continue seeing more evidence every day, this So, yeah, maybe it is possible that to produce things and get revenue from concludes Donald Trump would have 288,000 Pennsylvanians were not in the Chinese Communist Party and not won comfortably. But as many of us Pennsylvania pursuing homemade call into question their true hate of know, there would have been more pumpkins pies—Perry Como used to groups that might disagree with them. trucks with more fake ballots that sing—that they were actually in You run over them with a tank if they would have been brought in, so the Bethpage, New York. claim would have been made anyway disagree with you even though they are The subcontractor also reportedly experi- unarmed. That is the kind of thing that Donald Trump did not win because enced ‘‘odd behaviors’’ from U.S. Postal that Twitter is embracing here. they just needed to know how many Service personnel, behaviors which postal But this story from Lucas Nolan, 3 ballots they needed to overcome and experts have said in sworn statements, December, says: ‘‘Twitter has once they would bring them in to do so. ‘‘grossly deviated from normal procedure and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.047 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6854 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 behavior,’’ according to a press release from wasn’t hacking. There were doors to article on Election Day that he wanted the Amistad Project. which electronic experts could go to to thank his partners in Silicon Valley. Mr. Speaker, by the way, for anybody manipulate things. It was creating And he was also grateful—I am sure he that might be uneducated on the ways fraudulent ballots. It was—also, as I re- had someone in Dominion advising of court evidence, in a civil matter call, the Texas constitution itself re- him, but Krebs said everything is good such as this, the normal standard of quires that ballots are to be numbered because he talked to people that might proof is a preponderance of the evi- sequentially, and I don’t believe that have been involved in the fraud and dence, just the slightest evidence more has been done in quite some time. they assured him everything was good. showing that conduct probably was in So Texas, even though President So he said everything was good. appropriate. That is enough. It does Trump won and we picked up Repub- Also, with our Attorney General not have to be beyond a reasonable lican seats there, I would submit it Barr, he said he had seen no evidence of doubt unless you are getting ready to would be potentially even better re- fraud. And there are others that have prosecute people under criminal laws. sults if we had ballots that comported said the same thing. And I would hum- Once you move into the criminal with the Texas constitution. And I bly submit that all you have to do is realm to prosecute people guilty of would submit that everybody ought to close your eyes, stick your fingers in election fraud, then it does need to be be having sequentially numbered bal- your ear, and sing ‘‘la la la’’ for a long beyond a reasonable doubt but not to lots just to protect the election and period of time. Keep it up and you will establish a standard for an injunction voting process. neither see nor hear any evidence of to prevent decertification or to force ‘‘In its press release, Amistad Project fraud. decertification after certification, or to director, Phil Kline, said the testi- So if our Attorney General can keep actually declare an election invalid, monies are ‘compelling.’ ’’ that up, then he will continue not to even. That is a burden of more probable You see, testimony means things see or hear any evidence of fraud. So, than not, or probable cause rather than that were said under oath, which hopefully, he has not been listening to beyond a reasonable doubt. means it is evidence. It is a foundation what I have had to say here in the Another whistleblower, Nathan Pease of for the claims of election fraud. House because, here, again, it would Madison, Wisconsin—himself also a subcon- ‘‘ This evidence joins with unlawful cause him to demand to see and hear tractor for the U.S. Postal Service—alleged conduct by State and local election of- the actual evidence, and he may not that he was told that the postal service was ficials, including accepting millions of want to do that so he can stay con- planning to backdate tens of thousands of dollars of private funds, to undermine sistent. ballots in the days after the November 3 But the evidence is there. It is evi- the integrity of this election, Kline election in order to circumvent the ballot dence. It is sworn. And as this article said.’ In this press release, the Amistad submission deadline. points out: A third witness, Gregory Stenstrom—who Project says it has collected sworn ex- According to Waldron, the United States testified at a Pennsylvania legislature hear- pert testimony alleging that ‘over has a copy of the traffic and the packets of ing in Gettysburg last week—claimed to 300,000 ballots are at issue in Arizona, information that were sent to Germany on have witnessed a Dominion Voting Systems 548,000 in Michigan, 204,000 in Georgia, election night. vendor inserting jump drives into voting ag- and over 121,000 in Pennsylvania.’ ’’ Yesterday, the first expert at the Arizona gregation machines in Delaware County, State Legislature hearing with Rudy Pennsylvania. And in case there is wondering about whether or not that would affect the Giuliani was U.S. cybersecurity expert, Colo- And for those that don’t know, that election, that would absolutely affect nel Phil Waldron. is not appropriate under the situation, the election in each of those states. And Phil is an impressive man, an as was here. And it really shouldn’t be The story from PJ Media, Tyler impressive person when it comes to cy- appropriate in any situation. We need O’Neal, December 1, again, talks about bersecurity. to do away with the ability to have the truck driver that testified—which b 1515 some foreign-owned counting service, means it was under oath and it is evi- like we have had in Texas, in the big ‘‘Colonel Phil Waldron spoke first at dence—‘‘He had driven thousands of the Arizona hearing about the voting cities—no county that wasn’t a big city ballots from Bethpage, New York, to controlled by Democratic officials machines used in the U.S. election. The Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 2 weeks be- Dominion systems were connected to would ever allow that to happen in east fore Election Day. Phil Kline, a former Texas, west Texas, south Texas, north the internet as well, despite Domin- attorney general of Kansas and direc- ion’s claims to the contrary. The Texas. But in our big cities, yes, they tor of the Amistad Project of the will hire foreign firms, as they have, or records within the system can be ma- Thomas More Society, said that the nipulated by outside parties and insid- firms funded by foreign money. They Amistad Project corroborated the will hire them. ers as well. truck driver’s story.’’ ‘‘On Wednesday night, Colonel But they should not be, number one, So that is evidence. Waldron told the committee that they connected to internet, should not ever This story by Jim Hoft: ‘‘Colonel have witnesses now who delivered be susceptible of foreign ability to ac- Phil Waldron’’—that I believe he has truckloads of ballots for Joe Biden cess information, which means also to some former NSA folks that work with from New York to Pennsylvania. manipulate information if they are him—‘‘tells Michigan lawmakers Waldron said they likely did the same good hackers. And just as I said in 2001, truckloads of ballots for Joe Biden thing in Wisconsin. back when I was a felony judge in were inserted into the Michigan 2020 ‘‘Waldron explained that Democrats Texas and Congress overstepped what election.’’ inserted truckloads of fraudulent bal- was appropriate and ordered that every Colonel Phil Waldron spoke tonight—this lots into the fraudulent 2020 election.’’ county in America had to give up what is dated December 2—at a Michigan hearing Many people saw the video from system of voting, no matter how effec- following his explosive testimony in Arizona Georgia that was played yesterday, tive and appropriate and protected it on Monday on the voting machines used in last evening. This article from The was, and all by electronic voting ma- U.S. elections. The Dominion systems were Gateway Pundit, December 3, says: chines, it costs, seemed like $2 billion connected to the internet as well, despite ‘‘Earlier today Cristina Laila reported or so dollars. It was an unfunded man- Dominion’s claims to the contrary. on the explosive video that was re- date. But worse to me is someone who And that also—let me insert here— vealed during the Georgia ballot count- worked in our county courthouse—I that also helps explains the U.S. Gov- ing at the State Farm Arena where said back in 2001, this means because of ernment’s director that was suppose to crooked Democrats pulled out suit- Congress’ inappropriate bill they have been protecting our election, cy- cases full of ballots and began counting passed, that eventually elections will bersecurity, making sure it was se- these ballots without election monitors go to the best—the person with the cured. There was a puff piece done on in the room. best hacker. And now, 19 years later, the director of Cybersecurity and Infra- ‘‘Trump’s legal team showed a video that is what we have. structure Security Association—or from the State Farm Arena tabulation Mr. Speaker, but it wasn’t just hack- agency. Krebs was his name, Chris- center when poll workers were told to ing. It was also manipulation that topher Krebs. He had indicated in an leave at 10:25 p.m.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.049 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6855 ‘‘A few ‘workers’ stayed behind and ‘‘The complaint against Michigan’s quires expertise may not be considered were seen pulling suitcases of full of Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and evidence until a judge—going back to ballots out from under tables to be tab- Governor Gretchen Whitmer, marks the Merrell Dow decision of the U.S. ulated.’’ the beginning of Powell’s lawsuit Supreme Court—the judge became the So that seems strange, if you believe against the State. gatekeeper, had to make inquiries of that the mainstream media never re- ‘‘Some of the allegations are re- the expert outside the hearing of the ports anything but facts, because you peated claims from Michigan and other jury, and determine whether or not can, as I did yesterday, go online and States. Republican challengers were this person was expert in an area in put into Google anything about vote unable to ‘meaningfully observe,’ and which he was proffered as a witness, counting being suspended during elec- workers were instructed to backdate and if the judge so finds, then that is, tion night. All of the first entries you ballots. indeed, sworn evidence before the get tell you that it was fact-checked; it ‘‘Other claims are newer. court. is not true; it is fraudulent representa- ‘‘Expert witness, Russell James ‘‘The complaint asks the Court to tion. It is not true; there was never any Ramsland, Jr., works with the Allied provide emergency relief to de-certify suspension of vote counting for any- Security Operations Group. In the past, Wayne County’s results, stop Benson time in the swing States. he has worked with NASA and MIT. and Whitmer from transmitting the In other words, even though you ‘‘Ramsland said there were four State’s certifications to the Electoral heard it and you saw it happening on ‘physically impossible’ ‘spikes totaling College, and ‘to transmit certified elec- TV, don’t believe your lying eyes and almost 385,000 ballots allegedly proc- tion results that President Donald ears; believe what we tell you, because essed in a combined interval of 2 hours Trump is the winner of the election’ in we are coming to you through the and 38 minutes.’ He concluded that ‘Do- Michigan, among other requests. internet, so you can trust us, but don’t minion alone is responsible for the in- ‘‘Michigan’s Senate Committee is set trust your lying eyes or ears. jection, or fabrication, of 290,000 illegal to meet next Tuesday, December 1, to Anyway, in that video, it is very votes in Michigan that must be dis- hear testimony about absentee ballot clear, they did pull out suitcases full of regarded.’ This is nearly twice the counting at Detroit’s TCF center.’’ ballots that were—whether intentional number of ballots by which Biden is You know, this is a matter that or not, they were hidden under tables, leading Trump, which is approximately should be thoroughly investigated by and they weren’t pulled out until after 150,000 ballots. all areas of the Government, the three the monitors and the other vote ‘‘Dr. David Keshavarz-Nia has a branches of Government, including— counters were ordered to leave, that Ph.D. in engineering and technology for those who we are told are recent they were stopping the vote counting, and received advanced training from college graduates that know the Three and they did leave. That is when the the CIA, NSA and DHS. In his sworn Stooges’ names better than the three ballots come out from under the table statement . . . ’’—and again, since it is branches of Government—it is the ex- and the counting of those ballots be- a sworn statement, it means the alle- ecutive branch, from the President all gins. It is absolutely extraordinary. gations are not unfounded and there is the way down; the legislative branch, But some of us have known that this evidence of what is alleged—‘‘ ‘that including Congress and the Senate; and kind of activity has been going on. We USB memory cards were used to facili- know that there were electronic ma- also the judiciary branch, where you tate administrative’ backdoor access nipulations in Dallas County in 2018. It would ultimately come to have judicial ‘to disrupt polling operations and im- is really unfortunate. Our Texas Attor- decisions made over these things. pact ballot counting across Michigan, Those are all important. We all ought ney General had a chance to be a na- Georgia, Pennsylvania, Arizona and to be investigating this. It is part of tional hero, had they stepped in, uti- lized evidence from there. And I have Wisconsin.’ our job as Members of Congress. That ‘‘He also said, after a detailed anal- heard people say, Well, I heard about is what we need to be doing. ysis of the New York Times data, in his Yet, it is worth noting—and I think that. There was really nothing to that. Well, I have been following that for expert judgment, ‘the vote count dis- important to note—that as we heard two years and trying to get people in tribution in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, the majority leader talking about con- law enforcement to do something about Michigan, Arizona, Nevada, and Geor- cerns about COVID and businesses it. But they avoided the chance to be a gia, are not based on normal system going bankrupt and not being able to national hero and refused to go after operation. Instead, they are caused by operate and, of course, the unconstitu- the fraud that existed in the 2018 pri- fraudulent electronic manipulation of tional shutdown of churches, where the mary and general election in Dallas the targeted voting machines.’ Government does prohibit the free ex- County, again, by a firm that had for- ‘‘Another affidavit was submitted by ercise of religion, those matters should eign money supporting it, and they did someone whose name and personal in- concern everybody and especially the counting for Dallas County. But formation was redacted. This person about who you place as your servant in since nothing was done there, then the was an electronic intelligence analyst the Government. people were free to continue that type with extensive experience as a white But we hear the words from some of operation in the national election. hat hacker used by some of the top people in this body about how critical Here is an article from Joel Pollak. election specialists in the world. it is that we do something about ‘‘Attorneys Sidney Powell and Lin ‘‘The expert alleged that a search of COVID. One of the first things we Wood told a rally in Atlanta, Georgia Edison Research showed they had an should have done—we had over $120 bil- . . . Republicans should not vote in the Iranian server and there are records lion that was unused that was author- January 5 runoff election for U.S. Sen- showing China accessing Dominion ized and appropriated in the original ate unless State authorities rectify Voting’s servers.’’ Wow. ‘‘Edison Re- Payroll Protection Program. It is just problems in the State’s voting sys- search reports the vote count tabula- sitting there. All we have got to do is tem.’’ tion to Decision Desk HQ for election say yes, go back and allow that to be And I haven’t talked to Lin Wood or results. used by businesses in trouble under the Sidney Powell about that, but I would ‘‘According to the affidavit, the dig- same conditions, or we can modify imagine, knowing them, that they were ital forensics analysis shows there is them, and we have a bill. trying to make the point that this sys- ‘unambiguous evidence that Dominion And Republicans have been, We don’t tem needs to be cleaned up before the Voter Systems and Edison Research care. Put a Democrat name on there. election on January 5, because we do have been accessible and were cer- That is fine. Let’s just do it to help need people to vote in that election— tainly compromised by rogue actors, businesses avoid going out of business. not multiple times, but legally; not such as Iran and China.’ ’’ Instead, what we took up was the tiger people come in and illegally vote, but Now, this is an area that does require bill. We took that up pretty quick this people vote legally as to who they want expertise, and that is why you need ex- week. to represent them in the U.S. Senate. perts to come in and testify about it. It And as my friend, Dr. DESJARLAIS, So here is a story from the Epoch is true that simply making a state- pointed out, if you look at the time Times, Christina Kim, November 28: ment under oath in an area that re- that we spent in here voting on the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.051 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6856 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 tiger bill, that, as I understand, only EC-5782. A letter from the Secretary, Com- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- pertains to one place that keeps tigers, modity Futures Trading Commission, trans- cy’s final rule — Trinexapac-ethyl; Pesticide that during that period we voted on the mitting the Commission’s interim final rule Tolerances [EPA-HQ-OPP-2020-0046; FRL- tiger bill, there have been more people — Margin Requirements for Uncleared Swaps 10012-51] received November 4, 2020, pursuant for Swap Dealers and Major Swap Partici- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, die of COVID than have died from ti- pants [RIN: 3038-AF02] received November 4, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on gers over the last 25 years. Yet, we rush 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Energy and Commerce. in here to do the tiger bill. Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the EC-5791. A letter from the Director, Regu- I know there is a lot of use, meta- Committee on Agriculture. latory Management Division, Environmental phorically, of the red pill/blue pill from EC-5783. A letter from the Deputy Director, Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- The Third Eye or The Matrix. And it is Legislative Affairs, Commodity Futures cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation intriguing. You know, the red pill is Trading Commission, transmitting the Com- of Implementation Plans; New Jersey; Revi- mission’s Major final rule — Position Limits sions to Emissions Reporting Requirements supposed to show you truth, what is for Derivatives (RIN: 3038-AD99) received De- [EPA-R02-OAR-2019-0681; FRL-10014-13-Re- really going on, and the blue pill, you cember 2, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. gion 2] received November 4, 2020, pursuant will just be in blissful ignorance. I 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, couldn’t help but be reminded of that. Stat. 868); to the Committee on Agriculture. Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on When we are in here, we are not pass- EC-5784. A letter from the OSD Federal Energy and Commerce. ing anything to help with COVID, not Register Liaison Officer, Defense Acquisition EC-5792. A letter from the Director, Regu- to help businesses going out of busi- Regulations System, Department of Defense, latory Management Division, Environmental transmitting the Department’s Major in- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- ness. We are passing what ought to be terim rule — Defense Federal Acquisition cy’s final rule — Calcium Pantothenate; Ex- called the blue pill law. We are not Regulation Supplement: Assessing Con- emption from the Requirement of a Toler- going to fix your problems, but we are tractor Implementation of Cybersecurity Re- ance [EPA-HQ-OPP-2020-0117; FRL-10015-71] hoping you will smoke dope so that quirements (DFARS Case 2019-D041) [Docket received November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 you can—marijuana. So we are—I DARS-2020-0034] (RIN: 0750-AJ81) received U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. didn’t vote for it—but appropriating a December 2, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- bunch of money to make marijuana 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 ergy and Commerce. EC-5793. A letter from the Director, Regu- more accessible, not for medicinal pur- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Armed Serv- ices. latory Management Division, Environmental poses—a lot of us are okay with that— EC-5785. A letter from the Acting Assistant Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- but for widespread recreational use. Secretary, Employee Benefits Security Ad- cy’s final rule — Findings of Failure To Sub- So that if you are bothered—whether ministration, Department of Labor, trans- mit State Implementation Plans Required it is seeing an election stolen or seeing mitting the Department’s Major final rule — for Attainment of the 2010 1-Hour Primary your business go bankrupt, because the Transparency in Coverage (RIN: 1210-AB93) Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) National Ambient Air Government won’t you let you open, or received November 17, 2020, pursuant to 5 Quality Standard (NAAQS) [EPA-HQ-OAR- seeing your church being closed and U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 2020-0377; FRL-10015-79-OAR] received No- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Edu- vember 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. the preacher being taken down for cation and Labor. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 someone who failed to wear a mask— EC-5786. A letter from the Acting Assistant Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and smoke some dope. That is the message Secretary, Employee Benefits Security Ad- Commerce. of the week. And that is what we did ministration, Department of Labor, trans- EC-5794. A letter from the Director, Regu- this week. mitting the Department’s Major final rule — latory Management Division, Environmental So that is the message from the ma- Financial Factors in Selecting Plan Invest- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- jority. Go smoke some dope, take the ments (RIN: 1210-AB95) received November cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Designation of blue pill, and you will enjoy life so 17, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Areas for Air Quality Planning Purposes; much more. the Committee on Education and Labor. California; South Coast Moderate Area Plan Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance EC-5787. A letter from the Director, Regu- and Reclassification as Serious Nonattain- of my time. latory Management Division, Environmental ment for the 2012 PM2.5 NAAQS [EPA-R09- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- OAR-2019-0145; FRL-10015-43-Region 9] re- bers are reminded to refrain from en- cy’s final rule — National Emission Stand- ceived November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. gaging in personalities toward Mem- ards for Hazardous Air Pollutants for Chem- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 bers of the Senate or the President, in- ical Recovery Combustion Sources at Kraft, Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and Soda, Sulfite, and Stand-Alone Commerce. cluding by repeating remarks made Semichemical Pulp Mills; Standards of Per- EC-5795. A letter from the Director, Regu- elsewhere that would be improper if formance for Kraft Pulp Mill Affected latory Management Division, Environmental spoken in the Member’s own words. Sources for Which Construction, Reconstruc- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- f tion, or Modification Commenced After May cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; Pennsyl- 23, 2013 [EPA-HQ-OAR-2014-0741; FRL-10015- vania; Attainment Plan for the Indiana, ADJOURNMENT 72-OAR] (RIN: 2060-AU53) received November Pennsylvania Nonattainment Area for the 2010 Sulfur Dioxide Primary National Ambi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Pub- lic Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the ent Air Quality Standard [EPA-R03-OAR- ant to section 4(b) of House Resolution Committee on Energy and Commerce. 2017-0615; FRL-10015-78-Region 3] received No- 967, the House stands adjourned until EC-5788. A letter from the Director, Regu- vember 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. noon on Monday, December 7, 2020. latory Management Division, Environmental 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Thereupon (at 3 o’clock and 30 min- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and utes p.m.), under its previous order, the cy’s final rule — Partial Approval and Par- Commerce. House adjourned until Monday, Decem- tial Disapproval of Air Quality Implementa- EC-5796. A letter from the Director, Regu- latory Management Division, Environmental ber 7, 2020, at noon. tion Plans; Arizona; Nonattainment Plan for the Hayden SO2 Nonattainment Area [EPA- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- f R09-OAR-2020-0109; FRL-10014-84-Region 9] re- cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; Con- ceived November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. necticut; Control of Particulate Matter and OATH FOR ACCESS TO CLASSIFIED 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Visible Emissions [EPA-R01-OAR-2020-0255; INFORMATION Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and FRL-10013-47-Region 1] received November 4, Under clause 13 of rule XXIII, the fol- Commerce. 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public lowing Member executed the oath for EC-5789. A letter from the Director, Regu- Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the latory Management Division, Environmental Committee on Energy and Commerce. access to classified information: Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- EC-5797. A letter from the Director, Regu- Kwanza Hall cy’s final rule — Thiamine Mononitrate; Ex- latory Management Division, Environmental f emption from the Requirement of a Toler- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- ance [EPA-HQ-OPP-2020-0112; FRL-10015-69] cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; Ohio; EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, received November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 Volatile Organic Compounds [EPA-R05-OAR- ETC. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 2019-0302, EPA-R05-OAR-2019-0676; FRL-10015- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- 49-Region 5] received November 4, 2020, pur- Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive ergy and Commerce. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- communications were taken from the EC-5790. A letter from the Director, Regu- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee Speaker’s table and referred as follows: latory Management Division, Environmental on Energy and Commerce.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04DE7.052 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6857 EC-5798. A letter from the Regulations Co- ministration, transmitting the Administra- Organ Procurement Organizations [CMS- ordinator, Office of the National Coordinator tion’s FY 2020 Performance and Account- 3380-F] (RIN: 0938-AU02) received December 2, for Health Information Technology, Depart- ability Report, pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public ment of Health and Human Services, trans- 3515(a)(1); Public Law 101-576, Sec. 303(a)(1) Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); jointly mitting the Department’s Major final rule — (as amended by Public Law 107-289, Sec. 2(a)); to the Committees on Energy and Commerce Information Blocking and the ONC Health IT (116 Stat. 2049); to the Committee on Over- and Ways and Means. Certification Program: Extension of Compli- sight and Reform. EC-5817. A letter from the Regulations Co- ance Dates and Timeframes in Response to EC-5808. A letter from the Chairman of the ordinator, Centers for Medicare and Med- the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency Board and Chairman of the Audit Com- icaid Services, Department of Health and (RIN: 0955-AA02) received November 24, 2020, mittee, Farm Credit System Insurance Cor- Human Services, transmitting the Depart- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law poration, transmitting the Corporation’s re- ment’s Major interim final rule — Most Fa- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- port addressing the requirements of the Fed- vored Nation (MFN) Model [CMS-5528-IFC] mittee on Energy and Commerce. eral Managers’ Financial Integrity Act of (RIN: 0938-AT91) received November 24, 2020, EC-5799. A letter from the Regulations Co- 1982; to the Committee on Oversight and Re- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law ordinator, Office of the National Coordinator form. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); jointly to the for Health Information Technology, Depart- EC-5809. A letter from the Administrator, Committees on Ways and Means and Energy ment of Health and Human Services, trans- National Aeronautics and Space Administra- and Commerce. mitting the Department’s Major final rule — tion, transmitting the Administration’s an- f 21st Century Cures Act: Interoperability, In- nual inventory of commercial of activities formation Blocking, and the ONC Health IT performed by federal government sources, PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Certification Program (RIN: 0955-AA01) re- pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 501 note; Public Law Under clause 2 of rule XII, public ceived November 24, 2020, pursuant to 5 105-270, Sec. 2(c)(1)(A); (112 Stat. 2382); to the bills and resolutions of the following U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Committee on Oversight and Reform. titles were introduced and severally re- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- EC-5810. A letter from the Chair, United ferred, as follows: ergy and Commerce. States International Trade Commission, EC-5800. A letter from the Secretary, De- transmitting the Commission’s Agency Fi- By Mr. BIGGS (for himself, Mr. PERRY, partment of the Treasury, transmitting a nancial Report for FY 2020, pursuant to 31 Mr. MCCLINTOCK, Mr. WEBER of six-month periodic report on the national U.S.C. 3515(a)(1); Public Law 101-576, Sec. Texas, Mr. BROOKS of Alabama, Mrs. emergency with respect to Iran that was de- 303(a)(1) (as amended by Public Law 107-289, LESKO, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. KING of clared in Executive Order 12170 of November Sec. 2(a)); (116 Stat. 2049); to the Committee Iowa, Mr. DUNCAN, Mr. STEUBE, and 14, 1979, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public on Oversight and Reform. Mr. GRIFFITH): Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 EC-5811. A letter from the Director, Legal H.R. 8870. A bill to repeal the National Voter Registration Act of 1993; to the Com- U.S.C. 1703(c); Public Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); Processing Division, Internal Revenue Serv- mittee on House Administration. (91 Stat. 1627); to the Committee on Foreign ice, transmitting the Service’s final regula- By Mrs. DINGELL (for herself, Mr. Affairs. tions — Income Tax Withholding From LANGEVIN, Mr. LARSON of Con- EC-5801. A letter from the Secretary, De- Wages [TD 9924] (RIN: 1545-B032) received No- necticut, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of partment of the Treasury, transmitting a vember 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Pennsylvania, Ms. PRESSLEY, Ms. six-month periodic report on the national 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 HAALAND, Ms. MATSUI, Ms. KUSTER of emergency with respect to Somalia that was Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and New Hampshire, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, declared in Executive Order 13536 of April 12, Means. 2010, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public EC-5812. A letter from the Director, Legal Mr. DEUTCH, Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER, Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 Processing Division, Internal Revenue Serv- Mr. TONKO, Ms. PORTER, Miss RICE of U.S.C. 1703(c); Public Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); ice, transmitting the Service’s Major final New York, and Ms. DELAURO): H.R. 8871. A bill to provide for an emer- (91 Stat. 1627); to the Committee on Foreign rule — Meals and Entertainment Expenses gency increase in Federal funding to State Affairs. Under Section 274 [TD 9925] (RIN: 1545-BP23) EC-5802. A letter from the Assistant Legal Medicaid programs for expenditures on home received November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 Advisor, Office of Treaty Affairs, Depart- and community-based services; to the Com- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. ment of State, transmitting a report con- mittee on Energy and Commerce. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on cerning international agreements other than By Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH (for himself Ways and Means. treaties entered into by the United States to and Mr. HECK): EC-5813. A letter from the Director, Legal be transmitted to the Congress within the H.R. 8872. A bill to amend the Federal Processing Division, Internal Revenue Serv- sixty-day period specified in the Case-Za- Home Loan Bank Act to enable captive in- ice, transmitting the Service’s final rule — blocki Act, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. 112b(a); Pub- surance companies to apply for membership Income Tax Withholding on Certain Periodic lic Law 92-403, Sec. 1(a) (as amended by Pub- in the Federal Home Loan Bank System, to Retirement and Annuity Payments Under lic Law 108-458, Sec. 7121(b)); (118 Stat. 3807); add additional membership criteria for cap- Section 3405(a) [TD 9920] (RIN: 1545-BP69) re- to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. tive insurance companies, to require a study EC-5803. A letter from the Director, Office ceived November 4, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. on Federal Home Loan Bank membership, of Management and Budget, Executive Office 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 and for other purposes; to the Committee on of The President, transmitting the Office’s Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and Financial Services. report on Other U.S. Contributions to the Means. By Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH: United Nations for FY 2018, pursuant to 22 EC-5814. A letter from the Assistant Sec- H.R. 8873. A bill to amend the Small Busi- U.S.C. 287b-1(a); Public Law 114-323, Sec. retary for Legislation, Department of Health ness Act to modify requirements relating to 312(a); (130 Stat. 1925); to the Committee on and Human Services, transmitting a report small business concerns owned and con- Foreign Affairs. titled, ‘‘Supplemental Benefits to Treat or trolled by service-disabled veterans, and for EC-5804. A letter from the Secretary, Prevent Substance Use Disorders under other purposes; to the Committee on Small American Battle Monuments Commission, Medicare Advantage Plans’’, pursuant to Business, and in addition to the Committee transmitting the Commission’s FY 2020 No Public Law 115-271, Sec. 6084(a); (132 Stat. on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subse- FEAR Act report, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2301 3995); jointly to the Committees on Energy quently determined by the Speaker, in each note; Public Law 107-174, 203(a) (as amended and Commerce and Ways and Means. case for consideration of such provisions as by Public Law 109-435, Sec. 604(f)); (120 Stat. EC-5815. A letter from the Regulations Co- fall within the jurisdiction of the committee 3242); to the Committee on Oversight and Re- ordinator, Centers for Medicare and Med- concerned. form. icaid Services, Department of Health and By Mr. KELLER (for himself and Ms. EC-5805. A letter from the Deputy Sec- Human Services, transmitting the Depart- WILD): retary, Department of Agriculture, transmit- ment’s Major final rule — Medicare Pro- H.R. 8874. A bill to amend titles XVIII and ting the Department’s Office of Inspector gram; Modernizing and Clarifying the Physi- XIX of the Social Security Act to provide General’s Semiannual Report to Congress, cian Self-Referral Regulations [CMS-1720-F] flexibility in training and competency re- covering the period ending September 30, (RIN: 0938-AT64) received December 2, 2020, quirements for skilled nursing facility and 2020; to the Committee on Oversight and Re- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law nursing facility nursing aides under the form. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); jointly to the Medicare and Medicaid programs; to the EC-5806. A letter from the Board Chairman Committees on Energy and Commerce and Committee on Ways and Means, and in addi- and Chief Executive Officer, Farm Credit Ad- Ways and Means. tion to the Committee on Energy and Com- ministration, transmitting the semiannual EC-5816. A letter from the Regulations Co- merce, for a period to be subsequently deter- report of the Office of the Inspector General, ordinator, Centers for Medicare and Med- mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- pursuant to the Inspector General Act of icaid Services, Department of Health and sideration of such provisions as fall within 1978, as amended covering the period of April Human Services, transmitting the Depart- the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. 1, 2020, through September 30, 2020; to the ment’s Major final rule — Medicare and Med- By Mr. KENNEDY: Committee on Oversight and Reform. icaid Programs; Organ Procurement Organi- H.R. 8875. A bill to amend the Patient Pro- EC-5807. A letter from the Board Chairman zations Conditions for Coverage: Revisions to tection and Affordable Care Act and the Em- and Chief Executive Officer, Farm Credit Ad- the Outcome Measure Requirements for ployee Retirement Income Security Act of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L04DE7.000 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE H6858 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 4, 2020 1974 to establish a special enrollment periods H. Res. 1250. A resolution expressing the Article I, Section 2, Clause 18 for eligible individuals who are enrolled in sense of the House of Representatives with By Mr. KENNEDY: non-compliant health plans, and for other respect to the principles that should guide H.R. 8875. purposes; to the Committee on Energy and the national artificial intelligence strategy Congress has the power to enact this legis- Commerce, and in addition to the Committee of the United States; to the Committee on lation pursuant to the following: on Education and Labor, for a period to be Science, Space, and Technology, and in addi- Article I, Section 8 subsequently determined by the Speaker, in tion to the Committees on Education and By Mr. KING of Iowa: each case for consideration of such provi- Labor, Oversight and Reform, Foreign Af- H.R. 8876. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the fairs, Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Congress has the power to enact this legis- committee concerned. Means, for a period to be subsequently deter- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. KING of Iowa: mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- Article I Section 8 Clause 4 of the Con- H.R. 8876. A bill to authorize the Director sideration of such provisions as fall within stitution of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforce- the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. NEGUSE: ment to reclassify the GS-1801 ICE Tactical H.R. 8877. f Officers in the Homeland Security Investiga- Congress has the power to enact this legis- tions (HSI) tactical patrol unit operating on MEMORIALS lation pursuant to the following: the Native American Tohono O’odham Na- Under clause 3 of rule XII, memorials Article I, Section 8 tion (commonly known as the ‘‘Shadow By Mr. NORMAN: Wolves’’) as GS-1811 ICE Homeland Security were presented and referred as follows: H.R. 8878. Investigations Special Agents, to amend the ML-214. The SPEAKER presented a memo- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Native American Hiring preference granted rial of the Legislature of the State of New lation pursuant to the following: to the Department of Homeland Security in Jersey, relative to Assembly Concurrent Article 1, Section 8 support of the Shadow Wolves program to Resolution No. 190, urging Congress and the By Mr. PASCRELL: modify the job series and title for newly President to enact legislation that provides H.R. 8879. hired Shadow Wolves from GS-1801 ICE Tac- additional emergency response funding to Congress has the power to enact this legis- tical Officers to GS-1811 ICE HSI Special support the costs of safely reopening schools lation pursuant to the following: Agents, and for other purposes; to the Com- following the COVID-19; to the Committee on Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United mittee on Homeland Security. Education and Labor. States Constitution. By Mr. NEGUSE (for himself and Mr. ML-215. Also, a memorial of the House of By Mr. PHILLIPS: KATKO): Representatives of the State of Michigan, H.R. 8880. H.R. 8877. A bill to make an emergency ad- relative to House Resolution No. 234, memo- Congress has the power to enact this legis- ditional appropriation to carry out the Head rializing the Congress of the United States Start Act; to the Committee on Appropria- lation pursuant to the following: to repeal the federal ban on Pell Grants for Article I, Section 8, clause 18—Congress tions. prison-based education; to the Committee on By Mr. NORMAN: shall have the power to make all Laws which Education and Labor. shall be necessary and proper for carrying H.R. 8878. A bill to prohibit the use of funds ML-216. Also, a memorial of the House of to purchase goods or services from Com- into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all Representatives of the State of Michigan, munist Chinese military companies; to the other Powers vested by this Constitution in relative to House Resolution No. 323, dis- Committee on Oversight and Reform. the Government of the United States, or in couraging Congress from expanding the size By Mr. PASCRELL (for himself and any Department or Officer thereof. of the Supreme Court of the United States; Mr. FITZPATRICK): By Ms. SCANLON: H.R. 8879. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- to the Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 8881. ML-217. Also, a memorial of the Legisla- enue Code of 1986 to provide credits for the Congress has the power to enact this legis- ture of the State of New Jersey, relative to production of renewable chemicals and in- lation pursuant to the following: Assembly Resolution No. 86, respectfully me- vestments in renewable chemical production Article I, Section 8 facilities, and for other purposes; to the morializing Congress of the United States to By Ms. SHERRILL: Committee on Ways and Means. enact legislation to provide Medicare cov- H.R. 8882. By Mr. PHILLIPS (for himself, Mr. erage for eyeglasses, hearing aids, and den- Congress has the power to enact this legis- tures; jointly to the Committees on Ways EVANS, Mr. CASE, and Ms. CRAIG): lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 8880. A bill to establish the Compas- and Means and Energy and Commerce. Clause 18 of Section 8 or Article 1 of the sionate Capitalist Award to recognize orga- f Constitution of the United States of Amer- nizations that substantially benefit the well- ica. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY being of their employees, stakeholders, and f communities, and for other purposes; to the STATEMENT Committee on Energy and Commerce. Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of ADDITIONAL SPONSORS By Ms. SCANLON (for herself, Mr. the Rules of the House of Representa- Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors FITZPATRICK, Mr. RESCHENTHALER, tives, the following statements are sub- were added to public bills and resolu- and Ms. MOORE): H.R. 8881. A bill to provide grants to States mitted regarding the specific powers tions, as follows: that do not suspend, revoke, or refuse to granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 1155: Mr. TRONE and Mr. NEAL. renew a driver’s license of a person or refuse tion to enact the accompanying bill or H.R. 2428: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. to renew a registration of a motor vehicle for joint resolution. H.R. 3316: Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. BROWN of failure to pay a civil or criminal fine or fee, By Mr. BIGGS: Maryland, Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio, Mr. FER- and for other purposes; to the Committee on H.R. 8870. GUSON, and Mr. COURTNEY. the Judiciary, and in addition to the Com- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3637: Ms. PINGREE. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 3711: Ms. BROWNLEY of California. ture, for a period to be subsequently deter- Article 1, Section 8 H.R. 4022: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- By Mrs. DINGELL: New York. sideration of such provisions as fall within H.R. 8871. H.R. 4914: Ms. WILSON of Florida. the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 5531: Ms. HAALAND. By Ms. SHERRILL (for herself and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 6703: Mr. KHANNA, Mr. KILDEE, Ms. WEBER of Texas): The Constitutional authority of Congress BROWNLEY of California, Mr. SUOZZI, and Mr. H.R. 8882. A bill to establish a national in- to enact this legislation is provided by Arti- MCNERNEY. tegrated flood information system within cle I, Section 8 of the United States Con- H.R. 6745: Ms. LEE of California, Mr. the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad- stitution. MCGOVERN, Ms. ADAMS, and Mr. CICILLINE. ministration, and for other purposes; to the By Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH: H.R. 6909: Mr. SIRES. Committee on Science, Space, and Tech- H.R. 8872. H.R. 6958: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. nology, and in addition to the Committees Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 7052: Mr. ROUDA and Mr. GOMEZ. on Natural Resources, and Transportation lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 7197: Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio. and Infrastructure, for a period to be subse- Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 H.R. 7308: Mrs. TORRES of California, Mr. quently determined by the Speaker, in each By Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH: KHANNA, and Mr. THOMPSON of California. case for consideration of such provisions as H.R. 8873. H.R. 7806: Mr. RUTHERFORD. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 7976: Mr. EVANS. concerned. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 8058: Mr. CLINE. By Mr. HURD of Texas (for himself, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 H.R. 8242: Mr. LOWENTHAL. Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Ms. STEFANIK, By Mr. KELLER: H.R. 8254: Mr. GROTHMAN and Mr. Mr. VEASEY, Mr. CLOUD, Mr. CON- H.R. 8874. MALINOWSKI. NOLLY, Mr. LUCAS, Mr. BEYER, and Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 8270: Mr. HAGEDORN and Mrs. BROOKS Mr. FITZPATRICK): lation pursuant to the following: of Indiana.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 10:56 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4636 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L04DE7.100 H04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with HOUSE December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H6859 H.R. 8354: Mr. NADLER and Mr. NEGUSE. PETITIONS, ETC. Senate Resolution 1378, to express the rejec- H.R. 8368: Ms. WEXTON. Under clause 3 of rule XII, petitions tion of the Senate of Puerto Rico to H.R. 8113 H.R. 8380: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mrs. TRAHAN, of the United States House of Representa- and papers were laid on the clerk’s tives, for this legislation disregards and Ms. NORTON, Mr. WELCH, Mrs. CAROLYN B. desk and referred as follows: MALONEY of New York, and Mrs. HAYES. interferes with the right to self-determina- PT-150. The SPEAKER presented a petition H.R. 8433: Mr. LAMB, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE tion of the voters of Puerto Rico; perpet- of the Board of Supervisors of the City and of Pennsylvania, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. SMITH uates the antidemocratic territory status by County of San Francisco, CA, relative to of Washington, and Mr. HIGGINS of New suggesting that there may be a non-terri- Resolution No. 518-20, condemning the hos- torial status other than statehood, independ- York. tile military attacks escalating the conflict H.R. 8485: Mr. KIM. ence, or a nation associated with the United between Azerbaijan and Armenia; affirming States, et al; to the Committee on Natural H.R. 8662: Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. MCCLINTOCK, support of House Resolution 1165, authored Resources. Mr. YOUNG, and Mr. SARBANES. by Congresswoman JACKIE SPEIER; and urg- H.R. 8702: Mr. LYNCH, Mr. KIM, Mrs. ing the United States to help broker a peace- PT-155. Also, a petition of the Electors of WALORSKI, Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas, Mrs. ful resolution and return to a ceasefire the Town of Newbold, WI, relative to Resolu- BUSTOS, Mr. TED LIEU of California, Ms. HER- agreement; to the Committee on Foreign Af- tion No. 2020-1, seeking to reclaim democ- RERA BEUTLER, Ms. SHERRILL, Mr. EVANS, fairs. racy from the expansion of corporate and Mr. CARTER of Georgia. PT-151. Also, a petition of the mayor and personhood rights and the corrupting influ- City Commission of Miami Beach, FL, rel- H.R. 8711: Mr. PERRY and Mr. STEUBE. ence of unregulated political contributions ative to Resolution No. 2020-31414, affirming H.R. 8745: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. and spending; to the Committee on the Judi- support for and a partnership with federal, ciary. H.R. 8769: Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. state, and local leaders to ensure an accurate HUFFMAN, Ms. BONAMICI, and Mr. LEVIN of 2020 U.S. Census; to the Committee on Over- PT-156. Also, a petition of the Legislature California. sight and Reform. of Rockland County, NY, relative to Resolu- H.R. 8774: Mr. CA´ RDENAS. PT-152. Also, a petition of the Mayor and tion No. 452 of 2020, opposing the Metropoli- H.R. 8778: Mr. VELA. City Commission of Miami Beach, FL, rel- tan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) plan H.R. 8791: Ms. NORTON and Mr. VELA. ative to Resolution No. 2020-31413, requesting to eliminate rail service west of the Hudson that the U.S. Congress pass legislation pro- and calling upon the Federal Government to H.R. 8801: Mr. GRIFFITH and Mr. STIVERS. viding direct funding assistance to all cities provide the much-needed funding; to the H.R. 8812: Mr. HASTINGS. to help mitigate expenditures and current Committee on Transportation and Infra- H.R. 8820: Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. QUIGLEY, and and future losses as a result of the Novel structure. Mrs. LEE of Nevada. Coronavirus (‘‘COVID-19’’) Pandemic; to the PT-157. Also, a petition of the Mayor and H.R. 8830: Mr. LOUDERMILK. Committee on Oversight and Reform. City Commission of Miami Beach, FL, rel- H.R. 8834: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- PT-153. Also, a petition of the Legislature sylvania. of Rockland County, NY, relative to Resolu- ative to Resolution No. 2020-31411, supporting House Bill H.R. 3872 and its related Bill, Sen- H.R. 8840: Mr. FITZPATRICK. tion No. 417 of 2020, support of the United States Postal Service and its workers and ate Bill S. 2187 and urging the U.S. Congress H. J. Res. 8: Ms. NORTON, Mr. TAKANO, Mr. demanding that adequate funding, staffing to reauthorize the National Flood Insurance COOPER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. CICILLINE. and processing infrastructure be restored to program; and further urging Congress to pro- H. J. Res. 104: Ms. CLARKE of New York and handle mail-in ballots for the November 2020 vide additional resources to FEMA to utilize Mr. LARSEN of Washington. election and beyond; to the Committee on the best technology and methods available H. Res. 1201: Ms. BROWNLEY of California. Oversight and Reform. to improve the flood mapping process; joint- H. Res. 1213: Mr. CASE. PT-154. Also, a petition of the Senate of ly to the Committees on Financial Services H. Res. 1222: Mr. HARDER of California. the Government of Puerto Rico, relative to and Transportation and Infrastructure.

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HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY rative of that night, that Hampton and Clark Hampton gave his life to help create a more OF FRED HAMPTOM were killed in a vicious firelight, was entirely a fundamentally fair and equal nation for every falsehood. The police and State’s Attorney American, consistent with our nation’s found- HON. BOBBY L. RUSH claimed that they engaged in a fierce battle ing principles OF ILLINOIS with the Panthers, but investigators were able Sadly, Madam Speaker, too often it appears IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to determine that the police fired 99 bullets that for Black Americans merely existing can Friday, December 4, 2020 while the Panthers only fired one. be seen as a challenge to the white, racist A civil lawsuit would further reveal that the power structure. And sadly, as Ida B. Wells Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, you can kill the FBI’s Counter-Intelligence Program, or found in 1892, the consequences can be just revolutionary, but you cannot kill the revolu- COINTELPRO, helped plan the murder of as gruesome. Ahmaud Arbery was 25 years tion. These were the words my late comrade Fred Hampton. William O’Neil, an FBI inform- old when he was gunned down for merely jog- and best friend Fred Hampton, the Chairman ant within the Party, provided floor plans of the ging in what his killers deemed to be the and co-founder of the Illinois Chapter of the apartment to the FBI, who provided them to wrong neighborhood. Despite this incident tak- Black Panther Party spoke and lived by. In a the State’s Attorney and Chicago Police De- ing place in February of this year, and a video year that has seen too many Black lives un- partment. An autopsy found a massive dose of being available, neither of the men now justly taken, Chairman Fred’s words, life, and the barbiturate Seconal in Chairman Fred’s charged with the murder of Ahmaud Arbery legacy remain just as vital to our under- bloodstream, powerful enough to sedate an were arrested until May. If not for a report by standing of justice today as they were on the elephant. J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI viewed the The New York Times that helped lead to the date of his assassination on December 4, Black Panther Party movement Fred and I Georgia Bureau of Iinvestigation’s intervention 1969. Chairman Fred was both a visionary and a helped start to liberate our brothers and sis- in the matter, Mr. Arbery’s killers may never revolutionary, who fought for a more just world ters who were suffering from divestment, lack have faced justice. for everyone. I had the distinct privilege of re- of health care, and police brutality—as the Ahmaud Arbery’s death was a lynching, cruiting and working alongside Fred during our number one threat to the national security of which occurred because two white men felt righteous struggle for the liberation and eman- America. uncomfortable with his jogging though their cipation of the people who had been ignored This country’s government planned the as- neighborhood. One of the most recent in far by those in power for far too long. We encour- sassination—the political assassination—of too long a line of lynch mob killings of Black aged community development and empower- one of our nation’s brightest young leaders. To people in the United States. ment through programs that included commu- my recollection, the murder of Fred Hampton Madam Speaker, Congress must act nity health clinics and an expansive free is the only time federal law enforcement con- promptly to ensure that no one who partici- breakfast for children program, finally deliv- spired to carry out the political assassination pates in such acts of terror and hatred can es- ering critical social services to long under- of an American citizen on United States soil, cape justice. As introduced, my bill, the Em- served communities. We also helped broker a a truly shameful moment in the history of our mett Till Anti-lynching Act, would designate peace agreement between Chicago’s street country. This was a systemic campaign to vio- lynching as federal hate crime. This would gangs, reducing violence in the city’s most lently disrupt a movement seeking justice and apply whether or not those committing the of- marginalized neighborhoods. freedom for the most marginalized among us. fense were acting under the color of law. By Furthermore, the Illinois Chapter of the This should remind all of us that Black lives designating lynching as a federal hate crime, Black Panther Party joined forces with the have never been fully valued by many of the United States Department of Justice and Latino Young Lords organization, and the those in this country’s power structures. Too Federal Bureau of Investigation would be com- Young Patriots, an organization of poor whites often, justice is not sought for the families of pelled to investigate a case like Ahmaud living in Chicago’s Uptown community. To- those whose lives are senselessly taken by Arbery’s. gether, we formed the original Rainbow Coali- the state The Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act honors tion to fight all economic oppression. This wa- Madam Speaker, when the South Side of the legacy of Emmett Till, who was brutally tershed organization assembled a working- Chicago’s very own Ida B. Wells published her murdered in Money, Mississippi, in 1955. His class coalition to fight for our shared interests, seminal investigative journalism on lynching in death helped spark this country’s civil rights despite the fact that we were working in one America, she found that many lynchings oc- movement, but his murderers never faced jus- of the most segregated cities in the United curred because the victims posed a threat to tice, as they were acquitted at a sham trial in States. We banded together to fight many of the white supremacist status quo. One of her Tallahatchie County, Mississippi. Passing the the issues that still plague us to this very day, best friends was killed for merely operating a Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act would ensure including police brutality, substandard housing, successful grocery store that competed with that the full force of the United States Federal mediocre education, and low-quality health neighboring white businesses. While the Government is always brought to prosecute care. killings Ida B. Wells examined were not polit- those who commit the monstrous act of lynch- In the early hours of December 4th, 51 ical assassinations like the murder of Fred ing. years ago, the Chicago Police Department Hampton, they share a common thread. Both We have the opportunity to finally, after 120 with the cooperation, coordination, and sup- challenged the white supremacist status quo years and 200 attempts since Congressman port of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and in their communities. George Henry White of North Carolina intro- the Cook County State’s Attorney entered an Fred Hampton profoundly challenged this duced the first anti-lynching legislation, make apartment on West Monroe Street that seven status quo by fiercely advocating for economic lynching a federal crime. In fact, Ida B. Wells members of the Black Panther Party were and social dignity for all people, and by pro- herself advocated for the administration of staying in, with the premeditated aim of mur- viding long overdue social services to the President William McKinley to push for anti- dering Fred Hampton. The police immediately most neglected communities in Chicago. Fred lynching reforms all the way back in 1898. opened fire, killing Fred as he lay in his bed Hampton’s challenge to the status quo pro- Passage of the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act alongside his pregnant girlfriend, Akua Njeri. posed nothing less than a demand for full civil into law would demonstrate that this country Our fellow Black Panther Party Member Mark rights and economic opportunity for all those understands the heinous legacy of lynching Clark was also killed in the raid. There but for whose talents, dreams, and goals had long and begin the process of finally closing this the grace of God, on that dreadful night, go I. been stifled. This was a scary proposition to shameful chapter of our history. In fact, my apartment was raided during the those like State’s Attorney Hanrahan and FBI Madam Speaker, let us never forget the early hours the very next morning, December Director J. Edgar Hoover, who would stop at courage, conviction, and compassion of Fred 5, 1969. nothing to maintain the unjust status quo that Hampton. Despite this government assassi- Madam Speaker, through meticulous work prevailed in Chicago and throughout the nating him at only 21 years of age, Chairman we were able to prove that the official nar- United States in December of 1969. Fred Fred’s work and legacy are everlasting. Let

∑ 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 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.001 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS E1088 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 4, 2020 our work in Congress be guided by his legacy political conversations that were always civil IN HONOR OF CAPTAIN (RETIRED) of pursuing freedom and justice for all people. and informative. WILLIAM EISENHART That work can begin by sending the Emmet At a time when consensus seems elusive, Till Anti-lynching Act to the President’s desk, Tom was an example of what we can accom- HON. JOHN JOYCE an act that would require action by our col- plish when we work together and find common OF PENNSYLVANIA leagues in the Senate. That would be a clear ground. Today, I’m thinking of Tom’s wife, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Diane, of Chan and Ashley, Ashley’s three sib- demonstration that Congress has begun to Friday, December 4, 2020 value the Black lives, including Fred Hamp- lings, and Tom’s grandchildren. I hope it ton’s, Emmett Till’s, Ahmaud Arbery’s, and the serves as a comfort for them to know that he Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speak- countless others whose lives have been sys- left a profound mark on those who knew him, er, I rise today to honor Captain (Retired) Wil- temically devalued for far too long. loved him, and served with him. liam Eisenhart of Altoona, Pennsylvania, who courageously served our nation in the U.S. f f Army. HONORING STATE SENATOR TOM HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY During his fifteen-year military career, Cap- CASPERSON OF WALTER K. ROBINSON, SR. tain Eisenhart served with distinction. While he was stationed in Vietnam from November HON. ELISSA SLOTKIN HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON 1967 to October 1968, Captain Eisenhart OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA served as a Senior Advisor to forces in Tan OF MICHIGAN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thanh Dong Province. In this role, he moved IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Friday, December 4, 2020 his advisory team into a dilapidated fortress lo- Friday, December 4, 2020 Ms. NORTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today cated on strategic territory. Captain Eisenhart Ms. SLOTKIN. Madam Speaker, yesterday, to ask the House of Representatives to join and his team are credited with making several my colleagues, Representatives JACK me in remembering the life and legacy of Wal- critical improvements to the fortress that BERGMAN and TOM TIFFANY, paid tribute on the ter K. Robinson, Sr., a District of Columbia helped the United States forces, including the House floor to former state senator and serv- resident for over 50 years and a Documented installation of a helipad that allowed the Army ant leader for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Mr. Original Tuskegee Airman. Mr. Robinson died to facilitate medical evacuations in Thanh Tom Casperson. Today, I rise to do the same. on November 23, 2020, his 100th birthday. Mr. Dong Province. Holding this outpost was a On November 29, Tom lost his battle with can- Robinson will be remembered by his family, challenge. On June 6, 1968, Captain cer, but throughout his life, he embodied many friends and the East Coast Chapter of the Eisenhart was instrumental in repelling a su- of the traits that our great state—and particu- Tuskegee Airmen, of which he was an active perior enemy force when he fired a machine larly our Upper Peninsula—is known for: hard member. gun into the center of the enemy’s line of at- work, fierce independence, and an undying In 1941, while attending Howard University, tack, which allowed U.S. forces to effectively devotion to the people of his community. Mr. Robinson volunteered for the Army Air build up a defensive operation. Born in Escanaba, Tom worked for his fam- Corps. He was sent to Camp Lee in Virginia, The fortress that Captain Eisenhart de- ily’s log trucking business for more than three Keesler Field in Biloxi, Mississippi and finally fended was a critical outpost in the Phu Hoa decades, rising through the ranks from trucker to Tuskegee Army Air Base in Tuskegee, Ala- District for deterring enemy movement. For to owner. He could have continued at the bama. He began training at Tuskegee Institute this extraordinary accomplishment, he was helm of his family’s successful company. How- for Basic Ground School and, after three awarded the Bronze Star Medal with a ‘‘V’’ de- ever, after a fatal accident involving a log- months, continued in Pre-Flight, Primary, vice and one Oak Leaf Cluster. In recognition truck-industry colleague took the life of a Basic and Advanced Flight. During Primary of his service, Captain Eisenhart also was young woman and her baby, Tom resolved to Training, he had an accident, severing his awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal, the help implement safety measures for the indus- Achilles tendon, and was hospitalized for al- Vietnam Service Medal with One Silver Serv- try so the tragedy would never repeat itself. most a year, enduring six operations and ex- ice Star, and a Meritorious Unit Commenda- When he realized that his best chance at mak- tensive physical therapy. Yet, Mr. Robinson tion with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster. ing a difference was through the political proc- completed Primary, Lower, and Upper Basic With his incredible legacy of selfless serv- ess, he decided to run for office. Training, and while he was in Lower Ad- ice, Captain (Retired) William Eisenhart exem- In 2002, Tom was elected to the Michigan vanced, World War II ended. After his honor- plifies our American values. He is an out- House of Representatives. Just eight months able discharge from the military, Mr. Robinson standing American and Pennsylvanian, and it after being sworn in, Tom made good on his and his wife, Edmonia, moved to D.C. in 1959. is my privilege to recognize his many achieve- first legislative priority when he passed legisla- He soon joined the Postal Service and rose ments. On behalf of Pennsylvania’s 13th Con- tion to require new safety measures in the log- through the ranks to become the second Black gressional District, I thank Captain (Retired) trucking industry. This first public act he au- Manager of Delivery and Collection for the Eisenhart for his dedication to our nation, our thored was followed by an incredible 117 addi- District. Commonwealth, and our community. I had the immense honor of hosting Mr. tional bills passed into law during the 14 years f Robinson at my office in 2017, where I pre- that Tom served the Upper Peninsula—six sented him with a bronze replica of the BIG CAT PUBLIC SAFETY ACT years as the State Representative and eight Tuskegee Airmen Congressional Gold Medal. years as State Senator. Mr. Robinson is emblematic of the many D.C. SPEECH OF Tom was a tenacious advocate for the residents who have heroically sacrificed so HON. RON ESTES Upper Peninsula and, in the days since his much for their country, even without their full passing, tributes to his life have poured in OF KANSAS citizenship rights. I am proud to have been IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES from public officials on both sides of the aisle able to honor his service. and across Michigan. On Wednesday, Gov- Tuskegee Airmen like Mr. Robinson did Thursday, December 3, 2020 ernor Whitmer lowered our state’s flags on the more than protect America from foreign en- Mr. ESTES. Madam Speaker, the House is day of his funeral in his honor. In so many emies during World War II; they saved Amer- set to vote on the Big Cat Public Safety Act. statements remembering his life, what shines ica from itself, defying the gross misconcep- Sadly, my Democratic colleagues are pushing through is his passion for doing the people’s tion that African Americans were not capable legislation inspired by a reality show feud in- work and setting an example for future gen- of flying and fighting as equal stead of focusing on the harsh realities that erations of public servants. servicemembers. The accomplishments of real life families are facing because of the Tom’s passing is felt particularly by my team these brave servicemembers helped pave the coronavirus pandemic. because his son-in-law, Chan, is a Wounded way for President Harry Truman’s decision to Madam Speaker, this bill does more harm Warrior Fellow in my office. Chan and his wife, integrate the military in 1948. Their service to than good for the very animals it seeks to pro- Ashley, have shared with us what a wonderful this country and as history-shapers was recog- tect. My district is home to Tanganyika Wildlife and loving grandfather Tom was to their three nized in 2007 when 300 members of the Park in Goddard, Kansas. It’s owner, Jim children, especially how meaningful it was Tuskegee Airmen, including Mr. Robinson, re- Fouts, founded this park in 2008 to conserve when Tom traveled the world to visit his ceived the Congressional Gold Medal. endangered tiger species and educate visitors grandchildren while Chan was stationed I ask the House of Representatives to join through interactive experiences. abroad with the U.S. Navy. I know that they me in remembering the life and legacy of Wal- Through its current operation, Tanganyika will deeply miss their lengthy and substantive ter K. Miller, Sr. Wildlife Park has become one of the top big

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.001 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1089 cat breeding facilities, among 37 across the his impeccable and tireless service to our PERSONAL EXPLANATION United States, for conservation. This legisla- great Country, upon his retirement on Decem- tion discriminates against smaller facilities that ber 1, 2020, after 20 years of service in the HON. BARBARA LEE have safely worked to increase populations for United States Navy. OF CALIFORNIA rare and Endangered species. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Additionally, like many other small conserva- Commander Yunker is the Operations Offi- tion facilities, Tanganyika Wildlife Park was cer for the Navy Customer Facing Division, Friday, December 4, 2020 built privately with no government grants or Customer Operations Directorate, Defense Lo- Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, on funding. The Big Cat Public Safety Act is not gistics Agency Aviation. Previously, he served roll call vote 229, I was not present because about public safety; instead, it eliminates as the Division’s Director of Industrial Support I was unavoidably detained. Had I been smaller operations that are saving animals’ and Naval Aviation Enterprise Action Officer. present, I would have voted NAY on the mo- lives while also providing unique educational He has been a member of the DLA workforce tion to adjourn. experiences in communities across the coun- since January 2018. f try. Commander Yunker is a native of Aston, IN RECOGNITION OF THE RETIRE- Instead of fixing a problem, Democrats have Pennsylvania. He earned a Bachelor of once again introduced a one-size-fits-all bill MENT OF KAREN BIRD, EXECU- Science degree in Criminal Justice from that hurts smaller facilities instead of address- TIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALLI- Radford University, a Master of Arts in Na- ing problems with some bad actors. And ANCE OF DEDICATED CANCER they’ve abdicated their responsibility to lead tional Security and Strategic Studies—to in- CENTERS the People’s House in a bipartisan manner clude an Operational Planner Certificate from when so many families and small businesses the U.S. Naval War College—and a Master of HON. KATHERINE M. CLARK Public Administration from the Pennsylvania are hurting. OF MASSACHUSETTS State University. He is also a member of the It is ridiculous that we are voting on this bill IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rather than passing meaningful, common- Navy Acquisition Professional Community and sense measures to provide relief to Americans is a Joint Specialty Officer. Commander Friday, December 4, 2020 during our public health crisis. Yunker’s operational tours include: Principal Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts. Madam f Assistant for Services and Stock Control Offi- Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retire- cer; USS Enterprise (CVN 65); Assistant Sup- ment of Karen Bird, Executive Director of the PERSONAL EXPLANATION ply Officer, USS Ashland (LSD 48); and Base Alliance of Dedicated Cancer Centers (ADCC). Command Group, Multi-National Forces-West As Executive Director, Karen represented the HON. ED PERLMUTTER Base Fuels and Environmental Compliance country’s leading cancer centers whose one OF COLORADO Officer, al-Asad, Iraq. and only mission is to defeat cancer. She IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES worked tirelessly to communicate to Congress As an Operations Officer, Commander Friday, December 4, 2020 and the Administration the importance of the Yunker’s daily focus is centered around oper- ADCC member institutions and what they do Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I was ations for the near-and long-term readiness to improve patient treatment and to drive inno- not present to vote on passage of H.R. 1380 and sustainment of 21 various naval aviation vative cancer research. Thanks in large part to on Thursday December 3, 2020. I wish to re- airframe models and 11 nuclear aircraft car- Karen’s efforts, patients now have greater ac- flect my intentions had I been present to vote. riers. He serves as the initial point of contact cess to lifesaving treatments such as CAR–T Had I been present for roll call No. 232 on for all inquiries supporting naval air stations cell therapies. passage of H.R. 1380, the Big Cat Public Prior to her work at the ADCC, Karen was Safety Act, I would have voted YEA. and nuclear aircraft carriers globally. He as- sists the senior naval officer with service-re- Chief Financial Officer at the renowned Dana- f lated administrative tasks, to include: awards; Farber Cancer Institute where she succeeded PERSONAL EXPLANATION fitness reports and evaluations; detailing; and in working with both physician leadership and any other duties as assigned/required. senior executives to grow new ventures and HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO programs. She developed a finance depart- Commander Yunker’s prior shore assign- ment that was considered best in class and OF OREGON ments include: Director, Strategic Planning/In- was able to help Dana-Farber respond quickly IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ternal Review, Assistant Secretary of the Navy to the 2008 financial crisis with an integrated Friday, December 4, 2020 for Research, Development and Acquisition, financial forecasting model that encompassed Mr. DEFAZIO. Madam Speaker, on Decem- Washington, D.C.; Joint Petroleum Officer and endowment, research, and patient care. ber 3, I was unable to vote due to illness. Had Logistics Planner, U.S. Strategic Command, Perhaps most importantly, Karen has gener- I been present, I would have voted: on Roll Omaha, Nebraska; Midshipmen Disbursing Of- ously served as a role model and mentor Call Vote Number 229, On the Motion to Ad- ficer/Financial Advisor, Midshipmen Services throughout her career, ensuring that the pipe- journ, I would have voted Nay; on Roll Call Officer and Adjunct Instructor, U.S. Naval line of talent in finance and especially for Vote Number 230, On Ordering the Previous Academy, Annapolis; and Director, New Con- women—was amply filled and abundantly Question to H. Res. 1244, I would have voted struction Outfitting and In-Service Platform qualified. Aye; on Roll Call Vote Number 231, On Manager Surface Ships, Naval Supply Sys- It is a great honor to represent Karen Bird Agreeing to the Resolution H. Res. 1244, I tems Command Weapon Systems Support, and her lifetime commitment to advancing our would have voted Aye; and on Roll Call Vote Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Commander nation’s understanding of the causes, preven- tion, diagnosis, treatment, and survival of can- Number 232, On the Motion to Suspend the Yunker’s military awards and recognitions in- cer. Rules and Pass, as Amended, H.R. 1380, the clude, but are not limited to: the Defense Meri- Big Cat Public Safety Act, I would have voted torious Service Medal; Navy and Marine Corps f Aye. Commendation Medal (five awards); Joint RECOGNIZING SUPERVISOR KARL f Service Achievement Medal; Navy and Marine RODEFER RECOGNIZING COMMANDER MI- Corps Achievement Medal (two awards); and CHAEL YUNKER AND HIS DEDI- various campaign and unit awards. HON. TOM McCLINTOCK CATED SERVICE TO OUR GREAT Upon retirement, Commander Yunker plans OF CALIFORNIA NATION to start a second career in addition to spend- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing more time with his family. Friday, December 4, 2020 HON. SCOTT PERRY Madam Speaker, I’m humbled to recognize OF PENNSYLVANIA Mr. McCLINTOCK. Madam Speaker, I rise Commander Michael Yunker and, on behalf of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to recognize Karl Rodefer for his devoted the Citizens of the 10th Congressional District service as a Tuolumne County Supervisor. Friday, December 4, 2020 of Pennsylvania, thank him for his decades of First, however, I want to acknowledge and Mr. PERRY. Madam Speaker, I’m honored dedicated and selfless service to our great Na- thank Colonel Rodefer for his years of expert to recognize Commander Michael Yunker for tion both in times of peace and war. advice in nominating the very best young men

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.005 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS E1090 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 4, 2020 and women in the 4th Congressional District Angela M. Hardy, Ronald J. Harkins, Thom- House of Representatives, I rise in strong sup- to our service academies. Himself a graduate as D. Herron, Daniel C. Haskett, Albert M. port of this bipartisan bill, H.R. 1380, the ‘‘Big of the United States Air Force Academy, his Hill, Timothy M. Holland, George K. Honer, Cat Public Safety Act’’, which ends the owner- Robert P. Hoopes, George W. Horne, George personal understanding of the critical require- A. Ingram, Robert P. Joyce. ship of dangerous big cats as pets as well as ments of military leadership has resulted in Gilbert Kasirsky, David C. Kline, Michael prohibits exhibitors from allowing public con- over 100 nominees succeeding at the acad- Krajnikovich, Daniel J. Kwiatkowski, Rob- tact with cubs. emies and then as officers in our armed ert G. Larrisey, Joel Laskey, William Lee, First and foremost, I would like to thank forces. Albert Paiste, Phillip Paolella, Dennis Congressman MIKE QUIGLEY for his leadership Supervisor Rodefer’s life is marked by pub- Parker, Donald D. Parzanese, Noel G. on this legislation. lic service. From his 23 years of service with Pelletier, Randy G. Phillips, Normand A. Picard, Francis X. Poole, Charles E. Quaste, Across the country, thousands of big cats the United States Air Force to his eight years William B. Redington, Edward D. Renner, like tigers, lions, leopards, and pumas are kept as County Supervisor, Karl has served the Devon A. Richio, Lou Rizzo. in miserable, insecure, and unsafe conditions public with dedication and selflessness. Brain M. Roberts, Larry F. Rodrigo, Ed- by irresponsible owners. In addition to his service on a multitude of ward A. Rosen, Ronald R. Rottloff, Amanda These animals often come from a vicious L. Rudolph, Joseph S. Runewicz, Alexander committees and commissions, Supervisor cycle of breeding perpetuated by unscrupulous Rodefer has worked tirelessly to protect Rupeiks, John Schaefer, Bruce A. Sheeler, Richard W. Scholl, Lawrence M. Schorr, Rob- facilities looking to make a profit off of ‘‘cub Tuolumne County’s water resources, played ert J. Schulberger, Richard G. Scott, Wil- petting’’ or photo opportunities. an integral part in planning and future devel- liam J. Severns, Michael J. Shamp, Sharon It is an issue that causes immeasurable ani- opment of the Columbia Airport, was instru- Lynn Shaw, Otis L. Weathersby, William J. mal suffering and introduces inexcusable mental in acquiring grant funds to build the Wheeler, George K. Wiley. threats to human safety. J.H. Dambacher Detention Center, spear- Ian A. Woods, Todd E. Yanik, Douglas G. Yedinak, Ronald C. Zinzer, Fred Ewald, Big cats are wild animals and undoubtedly headed the County’s Fire Safety and Commu- suffer when kept as pets. nity Resilience Initiative in 2019, and advo- Gerry Albertson, Ronald Henry Alfors, An- thony Antonio, John W. Bader, Michael W. They are often purchased as babies, and cated for services for Veterans. Barnes, Russell H. Bendel, James Howard private owners are typically unable to manage Karl Rodefer has been a sterling example of Bergeson, Chuck Daniel Biresch, John A. them once they are fully grown. all that ought to be meant by the designation Boccadori, Lawerence P. Booth, Martin M. As a result, the animals are frequently left to ‘‘public servant.’’ I am proud today to con- Bradley, Mark Otis Bristow, David Bryk, languish in grossly inadequate conditions, gratulate Karl on his numerous accomplish- Francis X. Buschman, Steve Calderbank, often being deprived of sufficient space, ade- ments and to thank him for nearly a quarter Paul J. Carsello, Kimberly Ann Carter, Sean quate veterinary care, a nutritious diet, and century of commitment, dedication and service W. Carty. Demetrius R. Casillas, Fergus G. Castree, enrichment. to the citizens of the United States and the Thomas H. Chapin, Peter Chong, Theresa residents of Tuolumne County. Furthermore, it is common procedure for Colbert, Vincent A. Concordia, Mihael some roadside zoos to inhumanely separate f Wayne Corona, Stephen Cosminski, Francesco Cozza, John C. Craig, Richard E. babies from their mothers, so that they can RECOGNIZING DISABLED Dalton, Herbert A. Dashiell, Thomas C. Day, charge the public to pet and play with the AMERICAN VETERANS CHAPTER 17 Hugh F. Deithorn, James J. DelVecchio, cubs. Matthew P. Devlin, Anthony Diblasio, Gary This is a cruel and unhealthy practice that HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK Lyn Dimaio, John L. D’Onforio, Lawrence can cause not only lifelong psychological prob- Duchnowski. lems but also premature death for the cubs. OF PENNSYLVANIA Darryl J. Dukowski, Alan G. Eck, Marcos These young cats quickly outgrow their use- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Perez Elizondo, Orlando G. Epifano, Robert Errickson, Vincent Evangelista, Nelson fulness in the cub handling industry and most Friday, December 4, 2020 Lewis Fairman, Joseph A. Farrugio, Joseph often end up being sent to substandard Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise L. Felter, John P. Fernandez, Roy G. ‘‘zoos,’’ sold into the exotic pet trade, or pos- Ferrari, Robert J. Foley, Charles H. Fratz, sibly even killed and sold for parts. today to recognize hard work and dedication Raymond A. Freiling, Henry Fretz, Lawrence of the local Disabled American Veterans A. Fulmer, Arthur T. Short, Hampton G. This vicious cycle of exploitation and con- Chapter in my district. The national organiza- Silcox, Alfred E. Smith, Thomas J. Smith. stant breeding must be stopped. tion was founded by veterans on September Robert I. Snovel, Edward L. Snyder, Stan- Currently, state laws regarding private own- 25, 1920 and was officially chartered in 1932. ley W. Stanwick, Robert Staranowicz, Mar- ership of big cats are inconsistent, and some Our local chapter was established in 1971, tin Stern, Michael Ray Stever, Roy Stoker, states have few or no laws regarding the primarily from veterans of World War II and Godfrey R. Strecker, Francis Tacey, Rudolph keeping of big cats. V. Taurino, Cindy Riley Ternay, John W. Korea. Once facing dissolvement, the DAV Thomas, David A. Thompson, Irvin P. Madam Speaker, a uniform federal law is Chapter 17 bounced back and is now stronger Thompson, Joseph Troxell, Joseph M. Tyson. necessary to end this dangerous industry once than ever. This would not have been possible Peter Paul Ulmen, Goline D. Vanderhoof, and for all. without the leadership of George Lindsey Jr., Atty T. VanHamel, Ronald F. Vellner, Don- The ‘‘Big Cat Public Safety Act’’ is a simple Don Parzanese, Bob Staranowicz, Jack Thom- ald T. Walton, Donald E. Libby, George and straightforward solution to the devastating as, Tom Herron, Bill Severns, Lou Rizzo, and Henry Lindsey, Hugh C. Liverman, Thomas and growing crisis of negligent big cat breed- Kimberly Carter-Guerian. The Chapter works A. Locke, William B. Luckenbill, Joseph T. Mallamaci, Anthony Lee Maniscola, F. ing and ownership. to support our veterans and the larger commu- Marcano-Rodriquez, John M. Marino, An- According to Big Cat Rescue, there have nity through yearly events including job fairs, thony Thomas Mark, Gregory L. Marston. been more than 700 dangerous incidents in veteran ceremonies, and fundraisers. While Bruce B. Martin, Richard Matyskiela, Jean the U.S. involving big cats since 1990. Disabled American Veterans celebrates 100 W. McGinnis, James Douglas McEwan, Rich- These incidents include hundreds of human years of serving veterans of the Armed ard P. McEwen, Richard Joseph McMullin, injuries, maulings, and deaths. John Patrick Mowry, Daniel Moyer, Michael Forces, their families, and survivors, we are In many of these cases, the animals were extremely thankful for their commitment to John Mullen, Ralph G. Myers, Norman B. Newbon, John J. O’Donnell, Jeffery T. shot and killed, often by first responders who helping veterans in need. Olavarria, Bruce Gary Onraet, Albert Ortiz, are not equipped to deal with these situations, The DAV is dedicated to a single purpose: Donald S. Page, Robert T. Painter. thereby also putting them in harm’s way. empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives f Madam Speaker, throughout my tenure in with respect and dignity, their families, and Congress, I have been a staunch advocate for BIG CAT PUBLIC SAFETY ACT survivors. Let us never forget the selfless sac- protecting endangered species, and this bill rifice and dedication of all our disabled vet- SPEECH OF does that and much more. erans across the country. In order to ensure For the safety of our first responders, of our that their memory is not forgotten, I include in HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE community, and for these majestic animals, the RECORD the names of all the current mem- OF TEXAS we need this vital piece of legislation. bers of the DAV Chapter 17: IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I am honored to be a leader on this issue James F. Gartland, Robert A. Godwin, Les- Thursday, December 3, 2020 lie H. Goldstein, Edward T. Grabert, John P. and on this bill, and so I urge my colleagues Greer, Morris S. Guggenheim, James M. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, as an on both sides of the aisle to join me in voting Haitsch, Charles G. Hall, Brain J. Hamilton, original sponsor and a senior Member of the for H.R. 1380, the ‘‘Big Cat Safety Act.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.011 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1091 IN RECOGNITION OF THE LIFE teachings of Isaiah the prophet: When the CONGRATULATING AARON W. AND LEGACY OF SCOTT DAVIDSON righteous man perishes, he is taken away SUTHERLAND from calamity and enters into peace. A loving HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER father, a dutiful public servant, and a beloved HON. JOE CUNNINGHAM OF MISSOURI community member, Scott has rightfully OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES earned the eternal peace that is awarded to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the righteous man. Friday, December 4, 2020 Friday, December 4, 2020 The thoughts of the Kansas City community Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, with feel- and the Fifth Congressional District are with Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise ings of sorrow, reverence, and immense grati- Robin and their three children, Scott’s ex- today to recognize the election of Aaron W. tude, I rise today to honor the memory of tended family, and the innumerable Kansas Sutherland to the Newport Board of Education Scott Davidson, who passed away last week City Fire Department employees who were for- in Newport, Kentucky. after his battle with the coronavirus. As a tunate enough to work with him. Our commu- Aaron is a proud son of Carrollton, Kentucky proud member of the Kansas City Fire Depart- nity is mourning the untimely death of a young where he set out at an early age to serve his ment, Scott spent over a third of his life serv- father, but we are also celebrating a life dedi- community. Aaron was active in student gov- ing and protecting the people of Kansas City, cated to serving and saving others. Madam ernment at every level of his academic career Missouri. Speaker, please join me in honoring Scott’s and he has always been devoted to helping Scott started his career with the Kansas City legacy and offering our deepest condolences others. In fact, I met Aaron while we were Fire Department in 2002 as a communication to his family. I also ask that you, other mem- both serving on the Student Bar Association of specialist with the Municipal Ambulance Serv- bers of the House of Representatives, and the the Salmon P. Chase College of Law. Aaron ices Trust, which provided emergency medical American people remember Scott and his fam- believed that service to his colleagues re- services to the Kansas City area. As a com- ily’s sacrifice as we continue to combat the quired action to advance their causes. His in- munication specialist, Scott served as the Coronavirus pandemic. quisitive and civic-minded attitude is infectious, calming voice on the other side of the phone and those who know him know that he has tasked with reassuring distressed families that f their best interest at heart. help was on the way. Scott’s calm demeanor Aaron is a proud attorney, and devotes him- and steady hand provided much needed hope PERSONAL EXPLANATION self to helping his clients. In addition to prac- in moments of darkness. Indeed, Scott helped ticing law, he is also a civil servant His time ease worried minds, but more importantly, he HON. GUY RESCHENTHALER dedicated to both the United States Depart- played a vital role in saving countless lives ment of Labor and the United States Social OF PENNSYLVANIA throughout the city we call home. In 2010, Security Administration demonstrates his pas- Scott became a paramedic for the Depart- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sion for serving others. ment, joining a team that served as the first Friday, December 4, 2020 Aaron also believes in public education. response to desperate cries for help. Each in- This year, Aaron set out to serve the children dividual who, in a moment of crisis, called on Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Madam Speaker, I and teachers of Newport, Kentucky. He was Scott for help will forever remember and ap- was absent from the House on December 3, elected on a platform of putting the students preciate his heroic, lifesaving efforts as he 2020. Had I been present, I would have voted first, and that is exactly what he will do as a sprang into action at a moment’s notice. For nay on Roll Call No. 230, nay on Roll Call No. member of that body. Aaron believes that ev- Scott, as with countless paramedics across 231, and yea on Roll Call No. 232. eryone deserves a high-quality education and the country, saving lives and offering hope he will work to make sure that all students was the inspiration that prompted him to raise f have the opportunity to succeed. his hand and volunteer to risk his life for his PERSONAL EXPLANATION The people of Newport are lucky to have community. In the days leading up to his un- Aaron serving on their Board of Education, timely death, he was still on the frontlines, dis- and I am lucky to call him my friend. patching first responders to help those stricken HON. VIRGINIA FOXX f by the same deadly virus that would eventu- OF NORTH CAROLINA ally claim his own life. RECOGNIZING SUPERVISOR JOHN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES More than anything, Scott was a man of GRAY faith who was a joy to all those who met him. Friday, December 4, 2020 Described by those who worked with him as Ms. FOXX of North Carolina. Madam HON. TOM McCLINTOCK having a personality and heart that was larger Speaker, due to a test indicating a positive re- OF CALIFORNIA than life, Scott and his wife, Robin, treated the sult for a COVID–19 infection during the most IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES firefighters at Station 33 as if they were mem- recent district work period, I was unable to Friday, December 4, 2020 bers of their own family. Together they cele- travel to the Capitol to vote on December 3, brated the birth of every child in their fire sta- 2020. Had I been present, I would have voted Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Madam Speaker, I rise tion family, provided baked goods and treats NAY on Roll Call No. 230; NAY on Roll Call to recognize John Gray for his devoted service to those working at the station during the holi- No. 231; and NAY on Roll Call No. 232. as a Tuolumne County Supervisor. days, and mourned with the families of other Supervisor Gray was first elected to serve first responders who gave their lives in the line the 4th District of Tuolumne County in 2008 f of duty. and has represented the people of this county Jackson County, Missouri has seen 175 PERSONAL EXPLANATION and his district with passion, commitment and neighbors, friends, and family members die integrity ever since. from this virus. Scott, Captain Robert Rocha, Supervisor Gray is well known for his many and EMT Billy Birmingham are the first three HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY accomplishments and contributions to the of Kansas City’s finest first responders who OF VIRGINIA community, including his leadership during an have succumbed to Coronavirus while helping IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES economic recession in 2008, acquiring grant save others. Scott dedicated over a third of his Friday, December 4, 2020 funds to construct two Community Resilience life to serving Kansas City and its people. My Centers as well as two new Detention Facili- fervent hope is that Scott’s death will serve as Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I unfortu- ties, and his consistent participation in fuels a reminder that we must stand together in the nately failed to register my vote on the motion reduction and fire protection work. John has face of the adversity that plagues us. Wearing to suspend the rules and pass, as amended, also been an instrumental leader for a special a protective mask, social distancing, and get- H.R. 1380, the Big Cat Public Safety Act. tax in support of Tuolumne County Ambulance ting tested not only protects you from getting While casting a proxy vote for my colleague, in Groveland and implementing requirements sick; it also ensures that first responders like I unintentionally overlooked casting my own of the Health Care and Public Safety realign- Scott can go home to their families at the end vote purely by oversight. As a cosponsor of ments. of the day without worrying whether they or the bill and having just cast a proxy vote for In his 12 years of service, John Gray will be their loved ones will get sick. In times of un- the bill clearly I would have voted YEA on Roll remembered by the partnerships he built, his foreseen tragedy, I am comforted by the Call No. 232. commitment to be a good steward of taxpayer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.015 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS E1092 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 4, 2020 dollars and his constant focus on improving more and more with pandemic-related emer- MARTHA GRACE FIELDS, CON- the lives of every resident of Tuolumne Coun- gency calls In Kansas City, more than 200 GRESSIONAL AWARD SILVER ty. members of the fire department have tested MEDALIST Supervisor John Gray has truly been an positive and seventy-three are currently in- asset to Tuolumne County in making it a more fected. Captain Rocha likely came into contact HON. MICHAEL T. McCAUL prosperous place for small businesses and a with ten to fifteen COVID–19 each and every OF TEXAS more desirable community for residents and day while in uniform. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES visitors. It is my privilege to rise today in rec- And then, the worst happened. In early No- Friday, December 4, 2020 ognition of his distinguished public service. vember, Captain Rocha went into quarantine f and was eventually hospitalized. He fought the Mr. MCCAUL. Madam Speaker, I rise today disease valiantly, with the same vigor and to recognize the outstanding work of Martha RECOGNIZING MAJOR BRETT verve with which he fought fires and saved Grace Fields. Martha is an exceptional young KUHRT lives for nearly three decades. But as Captain woman who was recently announced as a Sil- Rocha no doubt taught the young firefighters ver Medalist for the Congressional Award, one HON. JACK BERGMAN he trained, not all battles can be won; and on of the highest honors presented to America’s OF MICHIGAN November 21th, Captain Rocha made his way youth. The Congressional Award Foundation IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES toward eternal peace. He was sixty years old. was created to recognize initiative, service, and achievement in young people. Martha has Friday, December 4, 2020 Captain Rocha will be remembered in the community as a courageous public servant demonstrated the core components of this Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my and a generous leader. We will never forget award through her servant heart and un- honor to recognize the tremendous work of his selflessness, his humility, or the twenty- matched work ethic. She gave back to her Major Brett Kuhrt during his time as my of- nine years he dedicated to our safety and local community by completing over two-hun- fice’s legislative fellow. Major Kuhrt’s leader- peace of mind. His team will remember him as dred hours of public service. Beyond her serv- ship, work ethic, and commitment to public a mentor who trained and prepared them for ice to others, she put in hundreds of hours of service have made him an integral part of our the risks that they faced every day on the job. personal development by competing on her team. His family and friends remember him as loving high school swim team and enrolling in numer- In a year of unprecedented challenges, Brett man with a good sense of humor and an in- ous leadership courses and seminars. Addi- has helped countless constituents in Michi- credible ability to inspire those around him. tionally, Martha was one of the first females to gan’s First District with everything from navi- They remember Captain Rocha as man who receive the highest honor in Boy Scouts, the gating federal agencies to answering in-depth would do anything for anybody. They say peo- rank of Eagle Scout. Simultaneously, she re- policy questions. He has shown a keen ability ple looked up to him ‘‘like he was Hercules.’’ ceived the highest rank in the Sea Scouts, to tackle complex issues ranging from national And throughout his life, Captain Rocha always Quartermaster. Martha’s continued hard work security and defense to veterans and labor proved to be a decent, dependable man—a has not gone unnoticed, and I am proud to policy, crafting legislative policy and providing man who loved to ride his motorcycle, sing sec her receive the recognition she deserves. technical support to staff. Brett has also dis- karaoke, and spend time with friends at the I would like to congratulate Martha for her im- played a true willingness to serve in multiple Outpost Bar and Grill. pressive achievements at such a young age capacities, always lending a hand when need- and I look forward to seeing her continued ed, no questions asked. He has set a high ‘‘For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as success and leadership. standard for future fellows and is an out- f standing example of the best of the U.S. Air a ransom for many,’’ scripture tells us This Force. has been a year of loss, a year of painful HONORING PRESIDENT JERRY Madam Speaker, on behalf of myself and goodbyes, and a year of empty seats at the RAWLINGS OF GHANA my staff, I thank Major Kuhrt for his excep- dinner table. But it also a year of heroes. The tional work on behalf of Michigan’s First Con- doctors, nurses, medical students, nursing stu- dents, EMTs, firefighters, and ordinary Ameri- HON. BARBARA LEE gressional District, and I wish him all the best OF CALIFORNIA in his future endeavors. cans who have placed their health in the hands of God to save others. Heroes who IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f have come to serve the wellbeing of complete Friday, December 4, 2020 IN RECOGNITION OF THE LIFE strangers. And, all too often, heroes who have Ms. LEE of California. Madam Speaker, AND MEMORY OF CAPTAIN ROB- given their lives as ransom for untold millions. today we honor the extraordinary life and ca- ERT ‘‘BOBBY’’ ROCHA Heroes like Captain Rocha. reer of Jerry Rawlings, the former President of Today, my prayers are with Captain’s Ghana. HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER Rocha’s family, his friends, and all his brothers He was born on June 22, 1947 in Accra, OF MISSOURI and sisters at Station 18. Let it be preserved Ghana to his loving mother Victoria Agbotuni. in this timeless Record that his loss leaves us IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES He received his education from the Achimota with a grief that cannot be weighed and debt Secondary School, graduating in 1966 with his Friday, December 4, 2020 that cannot be paid. His legacy lives on in the general education certification. While in school Mr. CLEAVER. Madam Speaker, I rise countless lives he touched and saved. So, he became well known for his love of Polo today with a heavy and tired heart to honor Madam Speaker, let us honor Captain Rocha. and his willingness to speak out about injus- the life of fire Captain Robert Joseph ‘‘Bobby’’ Let us remember the light he brought with him tice. Rocha. Captain Rocha was a beloved, giving, everywhere he went. And, whatever we do in In 1967 he enlisted in the Ghanaian Air vibrant soul, who lost his life last week after Congress today, tomorrow, next week, next Force and became a flight cadet. Shortly after- battling a COVID–19 infection he caught in the year let the story of Captain Rocha sit at my ward, he was selected to attend the Ghana line of duty. Captain Rocha gave twenty-nine chair in this Chamber. Let the stories of his Military Academy and Training School. Upon years of honorable service to the Kansas City fallen brothers, Billy Birmingham and Scott completing his training in 1969 he was award- Fire Department, and while his life was cut Davidson, walk with me through these halls. ed the ‘‘Speed Bird Trophy’’ acknowledging short, we must ensure that his memory is Let those stories remind us all that we have a his top ranking status in flying and airmanship. never forgotten. part to play. Let them remind us of our duty Nine years later he earned the rank Flight- Captain Rocha began at the fire department to serve. Lieutenant. back in 1991, the same year I was sworn in In the coming days, flags across my state During his career in the military, he began as Mayor of Kansas City. Since then, I have will fly at half-staff to honor Captain Rocha, to observe how corruption, privilege, and injus- watched from afar as he rose to the rank of dutiful Americans will wear masks and adhere tice impact soldiers and the people they are Captain while earning the respect and admira- to social distancing, and first responders will sworn to protect. tion of his fellow firefighters and the city he wake up again and again to walk into a weary His concerns about Ghana’s future led him protected. When the coronavirus hit, Captain nightmare that we have the power to make to become an outspoken critic of the corrup- Rocha knew the fire department was in for a less dark. Captain Rocha gave his life to save tion and mismanagement he saw from the long haul. During this past year, firefighters others. We can never repay that debt. But it country’s military leaders and called for more around the country have been assisting EMTs is our duty to try. attention to the plight of Ghana’s poor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.020 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS December 4, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1093 Eventually, he led an effort to remove the FAREWELL REMARKS EXPRESSING family. She always went above and beyond for existing military government and convened GRATITUDE FOR THE HONOR OF me and I am forever grateful. elections. When the subsequent government REPRESENTING MISSOURI’S I also want to especially thank all my Chiefs encountered challenges managing the econ- FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DIS- of Staff: Harriet Grigsby, Darryl Piggee and omy, he intervened again, and ruled directly TRICT Yvette Cravins. for the next eleven years. During his time as In the book of Matthew chapter 25, verses unelected leader, President Rawlings sought HON. WM. LACY CLAY 36–40, the scriptures read, ‘‘When I was to introduce reforms that would place Ghana OF MISSOURI naked you clothed me. I was sick you visited on a firm economic foundation and create me, when I was in prison you came to me. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES shared prosperity. The righteous answered, Lord, when did we In 1992, President Rawlings convened elec- Friday, December 4, 2020 see you hungry, thirsty, clothed you, or in pris- tions and presided over a gradual return to de- Mr. CLAY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to on visited?’’ And the King answered them, mocracy and openness in Ghana. After two offer my farewell remarks as a Member of the ‘‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to the least terms as elected leader, President Rawlings U.S. House. of these my brothers, you did it to me.’’ retired in 2001 and presided over the peaceful And while I will be sad to leave this historic These scriptures have been a guidepost for transfer of power to the opposition leader John place, I will forever be grateful for the oppor- my career in public service. Over my ten Kufuor. tunity to serve Missouri’s 1st Congressional terms, I have fearlessly advocated for the per- Following his presidency, he continued to be District for two decades, and to have been manent interests of African Americans and active in world affairs, particularly as the Afri- blessed with the friendship of so many col- other unheard voices. can Union special envoy to Somalia. leagues. I have had many legislative achievements in President Rawlings’ commitment to justice I have given my best because my constitu- this body and I thank all of colleagues who as- and opportunity extended beyond Ghana and ents deserved nothing less. I learned that vital sisted me in doing as the scriptures noted the African continent to African Americans and lesson about public service from my best advi- ‘‘caring for the least of these’’. In my remain- the African diaspora In particular, President sor and my personal hero . . . my dad, former ing time, I would like to highlight a few vic- Rawlings worked actively, both in office and in Congressman Bill Clay. tories. retirement, to build bridges between Ghana And the truth is none of my success would For 14 years, I hosted the Career Fair at St. and African Americans. In 2019, Members of have been possible without my remarkable Louis’ HBCU, Harris-Stowe State University, the Congressional Black Caucus traveled to family. which connected thousands of job seekers Ghana to commemorate the 400th anniversary I want to thank the rock of our family, my with good paying jobs providing economic sta- of the beginning of the brutal institution of mother Carol; and my devoted and talented bility. slavery in America. On that occasion, Mem- sisters, Vickie and Michelle. Creating jobs and economic development bers of the Congressional Black Caucus met was a priority for me. We were able to build with President Rawlings and his family, and he I also want to thank my children, Carol and Will. No Member serves unto themselves. the new $120 million National Archives Admin- pledged to continue his effort to deepen bonds istration Center in North St. Louis County. between Ghana and the African American Families also sacrifice greatly. Carol and Will have made me extremely proud. They carry The greatest economic victory for North St. community. Louis was the bipartisan effort to build the We offer sincerest condolences to his wife, themselves with such dignity, poise, and char- acter. There is no greater joy I have than headquarters of the National Geospatial Intel- his children, and the Ghanaian people. The ligence Agency. That $1.7 billion project is the United States Congress stands in solidarity being their Father. I thank them for being my greatest and best legacy. largest single federal investment in St. Louis with the people of Ghana as they commemo- history, of which I am extremely proud. rate President Rawlings’ legacy, and continue To my wonderful wife Pat: I could not have As Chair of the Financial Services Housing their work to strengthen democratic institutions selected a better partner to share in my post- Subcommittee, I secured the renovation of and inclusive prosperity in their country. Congressional career. Her love and optimism keep my life balanced and exhilarated. I so over 200 units of housing at the old Homer G. f look forward to our days to come. Phillips hospital in North St. Louis and an ad- COMMEMORATING MS. KATHERINA Of course, the best part of being a Member ditional 200 plus units in Wellston with the DIMENSTEIN’S DEPARTURE of Congress has been helping tens of thou- help of St. Louis County. sands of constituents solve issues with the People in my district, particularly the elderly, HON. DAVID SCHWEIKERT federal government. deserve to live with dignity and security. None of that could have been possible with- As Chair of the Oversight Census Sub- OF ARIZONA out my dedicated and compassionate staff committee, I worked to ensure Census 2010 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES over the years—Patricia Green, Sheila was successful and addressed the digital di- Friday, December 4, 2020 Mileszko, Virginia Cook, Debra Miller, Michelle vide in vulnerable communities. Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Madam Speaker, I rise Bogdanovich, Sandra Houston, Ishmael-Lateef My focus on healthcare led to The Everson today to commemorate my Chief of Staff, Ms. Ahmad, Jasmina Hadzic, Sean Weller, Craig Walls and Ron Springs Gift of Life legislation, Katherina Dimenstein as she departs from my Rasmussen, Percy Green, Adam Bordes, increasing grants to states and expanded office. Katherina has devoted the past eight Marvin Steele, Richard Pecantte, Frank ‘‘Les’’ organ and tissue registry for minorities. years of her life and career to the people of Davis, Mark Odom, Lou Aboussie, Noelle I have been a champion for environmental Arizona. Lindsey, Brian Williams, Michelle Mitchell, Brit- justice, cleaning up waste sites often lingering Iwant to thank Katherina for her dedication tany Packnett, Josh Peters, Pauline Jamry, in minority neighborhoods. and service to Arizona’s 6th District. She did Perre Smalls, Samantha Williams, Sherry My environmental record includes $5 million an outstanding job for our office, especially Faulkner, Tony Grandison, Bill Sibert, Frank to clean up the former St. Louis Army Ammu- her excellent work to promote strong trade re- Taylor, Erica Powell, Matt Alexis, Rico Doss, nition plant: $30 million to clean up the former lationships for Arizona and help modernize our and my Communications Director Steven Carter Carburetor plant; and $266 million to tax code through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Engelhardt, and the late Allison Singfield and clean up West Lake Landfill which holds waste She is committed to being both a voice and a the late Dottie Ross. from the Manhattan Project. resource for the people. I would like to extend a special thanks to Lastly, one of my signature achievements Congress is an institution devoted to serving educator Gwendolyn Reed, who also served was the African-American Civil Rights Network the people, and Katherina has exemplified this as a staffer for both me and my father, Con- Act. The National Park’s program educates every day by not only meeting with Arizonans, gressman Bill Clay, Sr. generations on the struggles of African Ameri- veterans, and advocacy groups, but by man- I also want to thank an exceptional Amer- cans who demanded full civil rights in spite of aging all my Washington, D.C. office oper- ican who has devoted 48 years of public serv- violence and hate. ations and legislative priorities on the Ways ice to the U.S. House, my remarkable Con- I am proud of my legacy and work for Mis- and Means Committee. We look to Katherina stituent Services Director, Edwilla Massey. souri’s first Congressional District. as an incredibly valued member of our team, I want to thank my devoted Executive As- May God bless you all, and may God con- and we will greatly miss her. sistant and Scheduler, Karyn Long. Karyn is tinue to bless the United States of America.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.024 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS E1094 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 4, 2020 PERSONAL EXPLANATION was a strong and universally respected voice Supervisor Brennan was first elected to for the U.P.—confronting challenging issues serve the 1st District of Tuolumne County in HON. SUSAN W. BROOKS head-on and working across the aisle for the 2010 where she served a total of two terms as OF INDIANA benefit of his constituents. He authored many County Supervisor. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pieces of legislation that became law, and his unwavering commitment to his ideals and the From her long family history of agriculture to Friday, December 4, 2020 people of Michigan were unquestionable. her passion for serving children and seniors, Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, Tom passed away on November 29, 2020. Sherri’s eight years as a Supervisor have I was not present for the following roll call He is missed dearly by his family and friends, been marked by her dedication to all the peo- votes. Had I been present for them, I would and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for ple of Tuolumne County. have voted as follows: Roll Call No. 230: H. generations to come. Tom’s tireless devotion In addition to her participation on various Res. 1244 Providing for consideration of the to the public good touched the lives of count- bill (H.R. 3884) Marijuana Opportunity Rein- less Michiganders, and the impact of his work committees and commissions, Supervisor vestment and Expungement Act—ORDERING cannot be overstated. Brennan received the Excellence in Govern- THE PREVIOUS QUESTION ON H. RES Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan’s ment Award from the Tuolumne County 1244—NAY, and Roll Call No. 232: H.R. 1380 First Congressional District, I ask you to join Chamber of Commerce in 2019 She also was Big Cat Public Safety Act—ON MOTION TO me in honoring the life of Tom Casperson His named Woman of the Year in the 5th District SUSPEND THE RULES AND PASS—NAY. legacy will forever live on in his family and in 2015 by Assembly Member Bigelow for her f through the many lives he bettered through his outstanding service and dedication to the peo- service. HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE ple of California. In 2018, she was honored by f OF TOM CASPERSON the Center for a Non-Violent Community for PERSONAL EXPLANATION International Women’s Day. HON. JACK BERGMAN Supervisor Brennan has worked tirelessly OF MICHIGAN HON. JOHN A. YARMUTH on behalf of her district and the entirety of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF KENTUCKY Tuolumne County. She has advocated locally IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Friday, December 4, 2020 and nationally for full funding of Payment in Friday, December 4, 2020 Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my Lieu of Taxes, the Secure Rural Schools Pro- honor to recognize the life of Tom Casperson, Mr. YARMUTH. Madam Speaker, I unfortu- gram, Public Lands and Forest Health who passed away recently after a lifetime of nately was unable to be present for a vote projects, including Rim Fire Recovery and the service to his fellow Michiganders. Through taken on the House floor on December 3, County’s Master Stewardship Agreement with his extreme dedication to public service, Tom 2020. Had I been present, I would have voted the Forest Service. Sherri’s advocacy for and became an indispensable part of the Upper in the following manner: Roll Call Vote No. commitment to Tuolumne County has been an 232: YEA. Peninsula and the entire state of Michigan. asset to every resident. Tom was born on January 20, 1959. A na- f tive Yooper, Tom was born in Escanaba and In her years as a Supervisor, Sherri Bren- RECOGNIZING SUPERVISOR nan has been a leader and a visionary. She graduated from Escanaba High School in SHERRI BRENNAN 1977. Prior to being elected to the state legis- has served the residents of her district, and lature, Tom worked for 27 years in his family’s the entire County, with steadfast commitment log trucking business, including 12 years as its HON. TOM McCLINTOCK and perseverance. OF CALIFORNIA owner and operator. However, a 1998 logging IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES truck accident sparked a drive in Tom for larg- er public service. He would go on to be elect- Friday, December 4, 2020 ed to the Michigan House of Representatives Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Madam Speaker, I rise in 2002. In his six years in the Michigan to recognize Sherri Brennan for her devoted House and eight years in the Senate, Tom service as a Tuolumne County Supervisor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 09:42 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04DE8.027 E04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with REMARKS Friday, December 4, 2020 Daily Digest Senate Chamber Action Committee Meetings The Senate was not in session and stands adjourned No committee meetings were held. until 3 p.m., on Monday, December 7, 2020. h House of Representatives Pursuant to the Rule, an amendment in the na- Chamber Action ture of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 13 pub- Committee Print 116–67, modified by the amend- lic bills, H.R. 8870–8882; and 1 resolution, H. Res. ment printed in the report of the Committee on 1250, were introduced. Pages H6857–68 Rules accompanying this resolution, shall be consid- Additional Cosponsors: Pages H6858–59 ered as adopted, in lieu of the amendment in the na- ture of a substitute recommended by the Committee Reports Filed: There were no reports filed today. on the Judiciary now printed in the bill. Page H6821 Suspension—Proceedings Resumed: The House H. Res. 1244, the rule providing for consideration agreed to suspend the rules and pass the following of the bill (H.R. 3884) was agreed to yesterday, De- measure. Consideration began Thursday, December cember 3rd. 3rd. Member Resignation: Read a letter from Rep- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- resentative Cook, wherein he resigned as Representa- tion Commissioned Officer Corps Amendments Act: tive for the Eighth Congressional District of Cali- S. 2981, to reauthorize and amend the National fornia, effective on December 7, 2020. Page H6848 Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commis- Quorum Calls Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes de- sioned Officer Corps Act of 2002, by a 2⁄3 yea-and- veloped during the proceedings of today and appear nay vote of 265 yeas to 124 nays, Roll No. 233. on pages H6840–41, H6841–42, and H6842. Pages H6840–41 Adjournment: The House met at 9 a.m. and ad- Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and journed at 3:30 p.m. Expungement Act: The House passed H.R. 3884, to decriminalize and deschedule cannabis, to provide for reinvestment in certain persons adversely impacted Committee Meetings by the War on Drugs, to provide for expungement No hearings were held. of certain cannabis offenses, by a yea-and-nay vote of 228 yeas to 164 nays, Roll No. 235. Pages H6821–40, H6841–42 Joint Meetings Rejected the Lesko motion to recommit the bill to the Committee on the Judiciary with instructions No joint committee meetings were held. to report the same back to the House forthwith with an amendment, by a yea-and-nay vote of 174 yeas to 218 nays with one answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. 234. Pages H6839–40, H6841–42

D1046

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 11:21 Dec 07, 2020 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04DE0.REC D04DEPT1 dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with DIGEST D1048 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST December 4, 2020

Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 3 p.m., Monday, December 7 12 noon, Monday, December 7

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Monday: Senate will resume consideration Program for Monday: To be announced. of the nomination of Stephen Sidney Schwartz, of Vir- ginia, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims, and vote on the motion to invoke cloture thereon on at 5:30 p.m.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE DeFazio, Peter A., Ore., E1089 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Estes, Ron, Kans., E1088 E1088 Bergman, Jack, Mich., E1092, E1094 Fitzpatrick, Brian K., Pa., E1090 Perlmutter, Ed, Colo., E1089 Brooks, Susan W., Ind., E1094 Foxx, Virginia, N.C., E1091 Perry, Scott, Pa., E1089 Clark, Katherine M., Mass., E1089 Jackson Lee, Sheila, Tex., E1090 Reschenthaler, Guy, Pa., E1091 Clay, Wm. Lacy, Mo., E1093 Joyce, John, Pa., E1088 Rush, Bobby L., Ill., E1087 Cleaver, Emanuel, Mo., E1091, E1092 Lee, Barbara, Calif., E1089, E1092 Schweikert, David, Ariz., E1093 Connolly, Gerald E., Va., E1091 McCaul, Michael T., Tex., E1092 Slotkin, Elissa, Mich., E1088 Cunningham, Joe, S.C., E1091 McClintock, Tom, Calif., E1089, E1091, E1094 Yarmuth, John A., Ky., E1094

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