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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 No. 77 House of Representatives The House met at 9 a.m. and was PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE to the health of young people, but it is called to order by the Speaker. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman adversely affecting our Nation’s dairy f from California (Mr. MCNERNEY) come farmers. forward and lead the House in the The bottom line is, if children won’t PRAYER consume milk, there is no way it can Pledge of Allegiance. The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick be nutritious. I am glad to see flavored Mr. MCNERNEY of California led the J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: milk back in our school cafeterias. Pledge of Allegiance as follows: We give You thanks, O God, for giv- Mr. Speaker, on this National Day of ing us another day. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the Prayer, there will be today, with the Please send Your spirit of peace upon United States of America, and to the Repub- bills being considered, many words and this assembly on a day of great polit- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. powerful words being spoken here ical moment. today, but none more powerful spoken The attention of millions of Ameri- f on this day, the National Day of Pray- cans is focused as the House considers ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER er, in our Capitol, than three words: legislation impacting the health care The SPEAKER. The Chair will enter- Let us pray. and coverage of so many citizens. tain up to five requests for 1-minute f On this National Day of Prayer, speeches on each side of the aisle. please attend to the supplications of AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT f Your people. (Mr. DEFAZIO asked and was given May the deliberations of these days FLEXIBILITY TO PROVIDE LOW- permission to address the House for 1 issue forth in legislation that indeed FAT FLAVORED MILK minute.) promotes the general welfare, one of (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, the so- called American Health Care Act is up the purposes of government articulated asked and was given permission to ad- today. in the preamble to our Constitution. dress the House for 1 minute and to re- And may all that is done within the If you are over age 50, insurance com- vise and extend his remarks.) panies can charge you five times the people’s House this day be for Your Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. greater honor and glory. normal rate. This couple, 64 years old, Mr. Speaker, last Congress I introduced $30,000-a-year income, $1,700 for a pol- Amen. bipartisan legislation to give schools f icy now. After this great bill passes, the flexibility to provide low-fat fla- this big beautiful bill, $15,000 a year for THE JOURNAL vored milk as a part of the National health care out of a $30,000 income. The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- School Lunch Program. Now, how the heck does that work? ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- I am happy to announce that the om- In the next 3 years, 24 million Ameri- ceedings and announces to the House nibus bill we passed yesterday contains cans will lose coverage. Among them, his approval thereof. language from my legislation and al- 153,000 in my district on the Oregon Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- lows the Secretary of the Department health plan so-called extended Med- nal stands approved. of Agriculture to grant exemptions to icaid. But that wasn’t bad enough to Mr. BROWN of Maryland. Mr. Speak- schools that wish to provide students get this bill through the House. The er, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I de- with flavored, nutritional, low-fat fluid rightwing demanded more, so they mand a vote on agreeing to the Speak- milk at breakfast and lunch. have done away with the preexisting er’s approval of the Journal. Mr. Speaker, milk is the number one condition exclusion. The SPEAKER. The question is on source of nine essential nutrients in Now they say: Oh, no, it is still in the Speaker’s approval of the Journal. young Americans’ diets and provides there, but the insurance company can The question was taken; and the multiple health benefits, including bet- charge you whatever they want. You Speaker announced that the ayes ap- ter bone health, lower blood pressure, have cancer? Oh, that will be $100,000 a peared to have it. and reduced risk of cardiovascular dis- year for your policy. Oh, but don’t Mr. BROWN of Maryland. Mr. Speak- ease or type 2 diabetes. worry, don’t worry, they are going to er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. Consumption of milk in schools has have a risk pool. The yeas and nays were ordered. been on the decline for several years, A few Members with weak knees The SPEAKER. Pursuant to clause 8, despite the fact that public school en- went down to the White House to get a rule XX, further proceedings on this rollment continues to grow. Not only is deal with the dealmaker, Trump, $8 bil- question will be postponed. the declining consumption detrimental lion. A lot of money for people with

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

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.000 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4114 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 preexisting conditions. Unfortunately, OPPOSITION TO THE AMERICAN This House and his country will never there are 130 million American adults HEALTH CARE ACT forget Sergeant Rodgers’ sacrifice. with preexisting conditions, as de- (Mr. BROWN of Maryland asked and May God bless his family and the scribed by the insurance industry. Over was given permission to address the brothers and sisters he served along- 5 years, that will be $1 per month per House for 1 minute and to revise and side. person. That is going to buy a hell of a extend his remarks.) f lot of health care; right? Mr. BROWN of Maryland. Mr. Speak- HONORING NATIONAL SMALL f er, I rise today in opposition to the so- BUSINESS WEEK called American Health Care Act. It NATIONAL SMALL BUSINESS was a bad deal for America before, and (Mr. YOHO asked and was given per- WEEK it is a worse deal today. It is an offense mission to address the House for 1 (Mr. MCNERNEY asked and was to working families. You are going to minute and to revise and extend his re- given permission to address the House pay more for your premiums, co-pays, marks.) for 1 minute.) and deductibles, and you are going to Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. MCNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, this is get less. in honor of National Small Business National Small Business Week, and I Preventative services, gone. Mental Week. Small businesses are the back- rise to celebrate the more than 27 mil- and behavioral health services, no bone of our economy. This week is lion small businesses in the United more. Prescription drugs, gone or, at dedicated to celebrating and recog- States of America and the 31,000 that best, a whole lot more expensive. nizing them and their contributions to are in my congressional district. The It is a life-and-death proposition for our Nation. Because of this, I wanted men and women who own these firms the 326,000 people in my district with to take a moment to recognize a few are truly the backbone of our economy. preexisting conditions, segregated into stellar small businesses in north cen- Small businesses create most of the expensive high-risk pools, facing mind- tral Florida. new jobs in the economy, supporting boggling premium increases if you hap- Archer Automotive and Tire, founded their families, employees, and commu- pen to have asthma, diabetes, cancer, in 2004, came about after a fleet me- nities. Small businesses want to grow or become pregnant. chanic of over 20 years decided he and create jobs, but have difficulty ac- It is a broken promise to America. wanted to open his own shop. Thirteen cessing capital. President Trump promised not to cut years later, they have expanded into a Furthermore, too many people re- Medicaid; broken. He promised insur- state-of-the-art facility employing over main out of work through no fault of ance for everybody; broken. He prom- eight families, allowing them to serve their own. We must do more to fight ised preexisting conditions would be even more of their community. high unemployment rates by helping to covered; broken. Eat the 80, winner of the Gainesville ensure that small businesses have the Mr. Speaker, I won’t be complicit in Chamber of Commerce’s 2016 Leading tools they need to succeed and thrive. this broken promise. I won’t uninsure Women’s Enterprise Award, is a meal That is why I introduced H.R. 2313, 24 million Americans. I am resisting. I delivery service specializing in health the Small Business Relief and Job Cre- am voting ‘‘no.’’ food that doesn’t lack flavor or qual- ity. They believe that everyone should ation Act. My bill provides tax credits f for small businesses to hire people who have access to a healthy diet, and they were previously unemployed, and in- HONORING ARMY RANGER built a business that could provide cludes additional tax credits for small SERGEANT JOSHUA P. RODGERS meals for working families. Finally, I would like to recognize En- businesses located in high unemploy- (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois doscopy Replacement Parts, an ment areas. asked and was given permission to ad- aftermarket manufacturer established I welcome my colleagues to cospon- dress the House for 1 minute and to re- in 1997. Their 18 years of manufac- sor H.R. 2313 to support small busi- vise and extend his remarks.) turing experience, great customer serv- nesses across the country. Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. ice, and giving back to the community Speaker, I rise today to honor one of f has led them to be recognized as the our Nation’s heroes. 2015 Manufacturers Association of Flor- MOMENT OF SILENCE HONORING On April 27, Army Ranger Sergeant ida’s Manufacturer of the Year, and the FIRST LIEUTENANT WESTON C. Joshua P. Rodgers of Bloomington, Illi- 2015 Small Business Administration’s LEE. nois, was killed in action serving his Small Business Exporter of the Year. (Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia third tour in Afghanistan. Mr. Speaker, it is businesses like asked and was given permission to ad- At age 22, Sergeant Rodgers had al- that that keep our communities vital dress the House for 1 minute.) ready earned the prestigious Ranger and growing. Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Tab, Parachutist Badge, Marksmanship Speaker, I rise today to honor First Qualification Badge Expert-Rifle, and f Lieutenant Weston C. Lee of Bluffton, many others. PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Georgia, who died on April 29, 2017, in Sergeant Rodgers leaves behind his OF H.R. 2192, PUBLIC HEALTH Mosul, Iraq, in support of Operation In- parents, Kevin and Vonda; sisters, SERVICE ACT AMENDMENT, AND herent Resolve. Emily and Hannah; brother, Ashton; PROVIDING FOR FURTHER CON- First Lieutenant Lee died from inju- and countless others whose lives have SIDERATION OF H.R. 1628, AMER- ries sustained while part of a train, ad- been forever changed by him. ICAN HEALTH CARE ACT OF 2017 vise, and assist mission in support of I never had the honor of meeting Ser- partner forces. geant Rodgers, but those who knew Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- First Lieutenant Lee was assigned to him best remember him as a warrior, er, by direction of the Committee on Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 325th tenacious, humble, determined, a true Rules, I call up House Resolution 308 Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne inspiration to everyone who knew him. and ask for its immediate consider- Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. We are forever grateful to Sergeant ation. I would like to extend my heartfelt Rodgers and the men and women who The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- sympathy and condolences to his team, put country above all else, a debt lows: his family, and his friends who have which we can never repay. It is because H. RES. 308 suffered this loss. of Sergeant Rodgers and many like him Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- Thank you, Lieutenant Weston Lee, that we live in the land of the free. It lution it shall be in order to consider in the for your service and sacrifice to our truly is because of the brave. House the bill (H.R. 2192) to amend the Pub- lic Health Service Act to eliminate the non- Nation. On Saturday, Sergeant Rodgers will application of certain State waiver provi- Mr. Speaker, I would use the remain- be laid to rest as his family and friends sions to Members of Congress and congres- der of my time in a moment of silence gather to celebrate his life, a life filled sional staff. All points of order against con- in honor of Lieutenant Lee. with patriotism, honor, and service. sideration of the bill are waived. The bill

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.002 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4115 shall be considered as read. All points of medical care and offer them sky- family doctor post-ObamaCare can’t order against provisions in the bill are rocketing premiums and anemic pro- because she can’t find a physician who waived. The previous question shall be con- vider networks in return. accepts her new insurance. sidered as ordered on the bill and on any Democrats smuggled ObamaCare Brittany Ivey and her husband have amendment thereto to final passage without through with little regard for the pro- intervening motion except: (1) one hour of struggled under the consequences of debate equally divided and controlled by the cedure, left lofty and empty promises the Affordable Care Act. Mrs. Ivey was chair and ranking minority member of the that benefit simply a bureaucratic ma- working part-time at a small business Committee on Energy and Commerce; and (2) chine. Seven years later, we have seen that provided her family with health one motion to recommit. these promises evaporate as insurance until the effects of SEC. 2. During further consideration of the ObamaCare patients lose access to ObamaCare on the insurance market bill (H.R. 1628) to provide for reconciliation their doctors and lose the very insur- raised her premiums sharply. This pursuant to title II of the concurrent resolu- ance plans they were promised would tion on the budget for fiscal year 2017, as drove the Ivey family into the indi- remain intact. vidual market, where a midlevel plan amended, pursuant to House Resolution 228, Our friends across the aisle claim the further amendments printed in the re- took 65 percent of her monthly gross port of the Committee on Rules accom- that coverage has been expanded and income, even after a small Federal sub- panying this resolution shall be considered individuals who never had quality sidy. Unable to afford insurance as adopted. health care before now have access. Mr. through her employer, Mrs. Ivey Speaker, I wish that were true, but it is The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. POE turned to the Federal exchange, where of Texas). The gentleman from Georgia not. I wish my colleagues and I didn’t she obtained a plan that neither she is recognized for 1 hour. hear from neighbor after neighbor who nor her children’s doctor would accept. can’t find a doctor to accept ACA in- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- The Affordable Care Act robbed surance or who avoids medical care al- er, for the purpose of debate only, I Americans of the ability to choose together because their deductibles yield the customary 30 minutes to the health care that worked for them, and gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. reach higher than the clouds. But we do hear from them because Americans the Affordable Care Act destroyed the MCGOVERN), pending which I yield my- are suffering as insurance providers insurance market along with the bene- self such time as I may consume. Dur- fits that competition and innovation ing consideration of this resolution, all flee from the not-so-free market. You see, coverage doesn’t mean ac- offer all of us. The American people de- time yielded is for the purpose of de- cess to care. Unfortunately, we have serve better. ObamaCare replaced our bate only. heard all too often that individuals doctors with bureaucrats because that GENERAL LEAVE may have health coverage, but they is what socialized medicine does. Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- can’t use it because their premiums The American Health Care Act is our er, I ask unanimous consent that all and deductibles are too high for them last chance to get off the Federal ferris Members have 5 legislative days to re- to actually afford the care. wheel before we are locked into a vise and extend their remarks and in- What good does the coverage do a healthcare system that takes us no- clude extraneous materials on House woman who earns $22,000 a year and has where and offers neighbors nothing but Resolution 308, currently under consid- a $5,000 deductible? heartburn. eration. What good does it do a young family The American Health Care Act guts The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there to have insurance that no provider in the most egregious provisions of objection to the request of the gen- their community accepts? ObamaCare, rolls back the law’s taxes, tleman from Georgia? What good does it do to say we want restores flexibility to the States, and There was no objection. to grow the economy and create jobs helps to make quality care more acces- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- when American businesses are strug- sible and affordable. er, I am pleased today to bring forward gling to keep their doors open due to Mr. Speaker, one of the reasons I this rule on behalf of the Rules Com- the ObamaCare mandate? came to Congress is to repeal and re- mittee. We have witnessed insurers dropping place ObamaCare and rein in our Na- Over the past few weeks, the Rules out of the exchanges and seen pre- tion’s bloated, ballooning entitlement Committee has had the opportunity to miums climbing while consumers are system. The American Health Care Act hear from numerous stakeholders, from left with less and less choice. Five does that by, for the first time, making the chairs and ranking members of States have one option and no choice major reforms to an entitlement pro- committees of jurisdiction to the Mem- for health insurance, and nothing guar- gram—Medicaid. It rolls back the Med- bers who have offered amendments. antees that their residents will keep icaid expansion under ObamaCare, one Most recently, last night we heard that much. of the fundamental pillars, and it ObamaCare has hijacked the free testimony from Mr. MACARTHUR and makes structural changes to the pro- market, and it has taken some Ameri- Mr. UPTON to explain their amend- gram to ensure it only goes to the indi- cans’ liberties with it. We must remem- ments and address any questions from viduals it was intended to help. the committee members, and from Ms. ber that exchanging freedom, choice, The American Health Care Act al- MCSALLY to explain her legislation. self-determination for securities at the hands of Big Brother too often leaves lows States to establish work require- b 0915 us with neither liberty nor security. ments for able-bodied adult Medicaid This rule provides for further consid- We know that ObamaCare was de- enrollees. It lets States choose between eration of H.R. 1628, the American signed to make a single-payer system the per capita cap and a flexible Medi- Health Care Act, and incorporates inevitable. And to the extent that a care block grant, and it increases the three amendments—the Palmer- single-payer system means a zero- growth rate to cover disabled and el- Schweikert amendment, the Mac- choice system, the prophecy has al- derly Medicaid populations. Arthur amendment, and the Upton ready come true. The bill enacts patient-centered re- amendment—that strengthen the un- Families can no longer choose to forms, increases access to healthcare derlying bill. save for retirement or pay their mort- savings accounts, and creates a Patient It also provides for consideration of gages because premiums suck up all and State Stability Fund to help sta- H.R. 2192, legislation authored by Rep- the oxygen in their budget. Individuals bilize insurance markets that have resentative MCSALLY, with 1 hour of who want to purchase a PPO cannot be- contracted during ObamaCare. debate equally divided and controlled cause their county only offers HMO Over the course of the last several by the chair and ranking member of plans. Disabled Americans who depend weeks, we have worked in this House to the Committee on Energy and Com- on Medicare find that ObamaCare has strengthen the bill. We have listened to merce. given more Federal funding to able- feedback from constituents, neighbors, Mr. Speaker, all across our country, bodied Americans than our more vul- stakeholders, and each other. the Affordable Care Act continues to nerable neighbors. Importantly, coverage for individuals strip hardworking Americans and fami- In my district, a young mother who with preexisting conditions is main- lies of access to affordable, quality wants to take her young son to the tained as a baseline within the bill. An

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.001 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4116 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 amendment from Mr. MACARTHUR fur- What is wrong with you guys? being done to the people with pre- ther protects individuals’ preexisting Today’s rule self-executes three of existing conditions, I have breaking conditions from being denied coverage. the newest Republican amendments to news: I have a magic bullet fix if Re- While the amendment provides the Republican health plan. This publicans really want to protect people States with additional flexibility by al- means, without any sort of debate or with preexisting conditions. Are you lowing them to seek a waiver, individ- discussion whatsoever, the Palmer, ready? Brace yourselves. Don’t change uals with preexisting conditions will MacArthur, and Upton amendments the law. Everyone is already protected not be left out to dry. In fact, there are will magically pass the House. by the Affordable Care Act, including conditions attached to the waiver that What I find so hard to believe about people with preexisting conditions and ensure States use funds provided by the this latest backroom deal is that they those who struggle to find affordable bill, should they receive a waiver, to actually make this bill worse. I didn’t care. Let me say to my colleagues that set up high-risk pools for those very in- think that was possible, Mr. Speaker. to claim or imply that this Republican dividuals. With the addition of the To shore up support amongst this plan covers preexisting conditions is a Upton amendment, the bill provides Chamber’s most conservative faction, lie, plain and simple. $108 billion to help States fund pro- Representative MACARTHUR and others Now, let me say a few words about grams such as high-risk pools. made a deal with President Trump to the process that has been used to bring Mr. Speaker, my home State of Geor- gut protections for individuals with this bill to the floor. It has been a dis- gia has very different needs than Cali- preexisting conditions and to eliminate aster from start to finish, with secret fornia. That is why I think it makes essential health benefits like mater- negotiations, backroom deals, and sense to give States more say in what nity care, mental health treatment, bribes to buy off factions within the works for their populations. Our plan and prescription drug coverage, just to Republican Conference. There have does this, but it does so in a way that name a few. These are among the most been no hearings on this bill whatso- ensures protections exist for vulnerable popular provisions of the Affordable ever. And the Republican leadership populations like the elderly, disabled, Care Act. couldn’t even slow down long enough and children. The American people were justifiably to receive a score from the CBO. The rule also provides for Represent- outraged, and they showed up by the I have one simple question: What is ative MCSALLY’s legislation to ensure thousands to townhalls to express their the rush? Wait a week and get a CBO that Members of Congress are treated anger. And there were some on the Re- score. Why is that such a radical idea? the same as all Americans. I fully sup- publican side who actually got it. They Mr. Speaker, are Republican leaders port this bill and firmly believe elected listened to their constituents and they jamming this bill through to appease officials should be required to live had the courage to stand up and say no. Donald Trump? under the same laws as those they were But when Republican leaders came Are they concerned that a new CBO elected to represent. up short in their whip count, Rep- score will confirm what we already President Trump has made his sup- resentative UPTON ran to the White know is true, that this bill will be dev- port of the American Health Care Act House and concocted a deal with Presi- astating to the people of this country, and its strengthening amendments dent Trump to try to win back votes. force even more people to lose their clear, and I stand with him in sup- His amendment adds a measly $8 bil- health care, especially to older, sick, porting this legislation to gut lion spread out over 5 years in a futile and low-income Americans. ObamaCare and rescue the American attempt to soften the devastating ef- Or maybe, Mr. Speaker, Republican people. fect that this bill will have on millions leaders are worried that their col- Mr. Speaker, average premiums rose and millions of Americans with pre- leagues will go home over this by 40 percent or more in 11 States just existing conditions. weeklong break and actually hear from this year. The statistics and the stories Now, $8 billion over 5 years sounds their constituents who overwhelmingly speak for themselves. We must act to like a lot, but when we are talking oppose this effort to repeal the Afford- dismantle ObamaCare, and the Afford- about an entire country, it really isn’t. able Care Act. able Care Act does that. Don’t take it from me. Robert Honestly, I don’t know how my Re- I support the rule before us today to Graboyes from the conservative publicans friends can defend this ter- provide for further improvements to Mercatus Center said: rible, closed, authoritarian process. It the bill and look forward to supporting ‘‘The $8 billion amount is a pittance. is an absolute disgrace. both the rule and the underlying bill. Spread over 5 years, it’s a fifth of a pit- I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on I reserve the balance of my time. tance.’’ this bill, or, better yet, I urge my Re- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield This is not a leftwing organization. publicans colleagues to do what they myself such time as I may consume. This is an organization funded by Koch did a couple of weeks ago and pull this (Mr. MCGOVERN asked and was Industries, the Koch brothers. My disastrous bill. given permission to revise and extend friends love the Koch brothers. I reserve the balance of my time. his remarks.) What’s more, some analysts have al- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- Mr. MCGOVERN. I thank the gen- ready estimated that an additional $200 er, I reserve the balance of my time. tleman from Georgia (Mr. COLLINS) for billion will be needed over a decade to Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield the customary 30 minutes. adequately fund high-risk pools. So 1 minute to the gentleman from Ken- Mr. Speaker, pathetic, that is the this amendment is billions upon bil- tucky (Mr. YARMUTH), the distin- word to describe this process and this lions upon billions of dollars short. And guished ranking member of the Com- bill. If the American people could sue as the Center for American Progress mittee on the Budget. Congress for malpractice, my Repub- points out, the Upton amendment ‘‘will Mr. YARMUTH. Mr. Speaker, the lican friends would be in deep trouble. have almost no effect.’’ question every Member of Congress How could you do this? How could Now, my colleagues who have been should be asking themselves today is: you do this to the American people? won over by this should be ashamed of Who in the world is better off because How can you do this to the people you themselves. We are supposed to fix of today’s bill? represent? problems and help people, not merely It is not the 24 million people the You are taking away essential settle for political cover that can be CBO says will lose their health cov- healthcare protections. You are allow- used in a press release. $8 billion to erage if this bill becomes law. ing insurance companies to discrimi- cover a $200 billion shortfall? Back It is not the seniors who will be nate against people with preexisting where I come from, we call that being priced out of the market by an age tax conditions. You are supporting a bill a cheap date. I guarantee you, your or the millions of families who will see that will throw 24 million people off of constituents are going to figure this their health care gutted by the more their health care and cut Medicaid by out, and they will not be happy. than $800 billion in cuts to Medicaid. $880 billion to give a $1 trillion tax So to so-called moderate Republicans It is not the 881,000 non-elderly break to the wealthiest people in this who have contorted themselves this adults in Kentucky with preexisting country. week to try to find a fix to the damage conditions who would, once again, face

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.007 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4117 staggering health costs with reduced ran an explainer on the ways in which health She wrote to me saying: ‘‘My cancer care. insurers treated women as if they were just recurred, but I was covered. I was able So who is better off? Well, certainly one giant pre-existing condition. to complete my treatments without corporations and millionaires who will The AHCA initially retained the ACA’s ban having to worry about how to put food on discrimination against people with pre- see nearly $1 trillion in tax cuts from existing conditions. But an amendment to on the table. Or being left to die. Be- this bill. the AHCA bill offered last week by New Jer- cause of the ACA, I survived.’’ And at least, in their minds, a few sey Congressman Tom MacArthur and North We all have stories like this in our Republican Members are so desperate Carolina Congressman Mark Meadows would districts, but some of my colleagues for some type of political victory they make it easier for health insurers to deny aren’t listening. I hope they find the are willing to risk the health and well- coverage to people with pre-existing condi- courage and the wisdom to vote ‘‘no’’ being of their constituents to ram tions. on this dangerous legislation. By letting states waive the ACA prohibi- through a bill without hearings, anal- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- tion on charging people with pre-existing er, I reserve the balance of my time. ysis, or, most alarmingly, any sense of health conditions higher premiums, protec- morality. That is the cruel tradeoff my Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield tions for those who’ve previously been medi- 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas Republican colleagues have decided to cally treated for sexual assault would be gut- make. ted. (Mr. CASTRO). Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Our families deserve far better. I urge Perhaps more alarming, though, is the Republicans, over the last few months, my colleagues to exercise better judg- MacArthur-Meadows amendment’s provision have said that they would fundamen- ment and vote ‘‘no’’ on this bill. allowing states to also seek waivers from the ACA’s requirement that essential health tally change health care in the United Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- benefits be covered by health insurance States, and it is clear today that they er, I reserve the balance of my time. plans. Essential health benefits include pre- have. They have made it much worse. b 0930 ventive health care services that most of us I want to highlight one provision take for granted. These include tests for that allows for States to permit insur- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I am blood pressure and cholesterol, mammo- ers to get rid of essential healthcare grams, and vaccinations. Essential health not sure if my colleagues are aware of benefits and charge people more who this since we are moving so quickly benefits also include coverage for mental health care and substance abuse treatment. have preexisting conditions. Think here, but I want to flag for everyone an about that for a second. important op-ed in The Hill by the ex- Sexual violence survivors face acute treat- ment needs in the aftermath of an assault In my home State of Texas, the Gov- ecutive director of the Boston Area such as care for gynecological injuries, other ernor and other State leaders have al- Rape Crisis Center. She points out that physical trauma, sexually-transmitted dis- ready turned their back on so many in the latest version of this legislation, eases, and pregnancy. But sexual violence people, allowing foster care children to rape can once again be categorized as a takes many forms: incest: ongoing sexual sleep in State offices, allowing sex traf- preexisting condition as it often was abuse outside of the family, sexual assault, ficking and human trafficking victims before the Affordable Care Act. sexual harassment or exploitation, and rape. Each of these types of assault puts the sur- to go to jail because there is nowhere I include her column, entitled else to put them. ‘‘Health ‘reform’ will make sexual as- vivor at risk for various potential negative physical health and mental health outcomes. You should ask yourselves: What will sault survivors sick,’’ in the RECORD. For example, an adult survivor of child- your leaders do? Will they allow insur- HEALTH ‘REFORM’ WILL MAKE SEXUAL hood sexual abuse is at a higher risk for psy- ers to charge you more for preexisting ASSAULT SURVIVORS SICK chiatric disorders. Women and men who have conditions like diabetes and hyper- (By Gina Scaramella) survived rape as adults are at higher risk of tension and cancer and asthma? So far, we know that about 24 million post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, Do you think, and do you trust, that Americans stand to lose their health insur- anxiety, and substance abuse—any of which they are going to do the right thing by ance coverage if the Affordable Care Act can significantly interfere with daily living. you? Because today, this plan allows (ACA) is replaced with the American Health No one can deny that there is a direct line between having survived sexual violence, and them to abandon you. Care Act (AHCA). We know that most of Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- those 24 million people will be low-income. an increased risk of physical and mental health problems. er, I yield myself such time as I may We also know that groups of people who consume. experience significant health care dispari- The mental health impacts of sexual vio- ties, such as lesbian, gay, bisexual and lence are deep and often longstanding. Sur- At this time, I think one of the inter- transgender (LGBT) people, and Black and vivors need long-term access to esting things is, as discussed, the criti- Latino people, will be among those who risk nonjudgmental health and mental health cism of this. I think it was just a re- losing the most if the ACA is repealed. To services to reduce their suffering and miti- minder, Mr. Speaker, of what happened that list, we must add survivors of sexual vi- gate as much as possible the stress that re- 7 years ago when our healthcare mar- covery from sexual violence puts on intimate olence. ket, which could have been helped by Before passage of the ACA in 2010, sexual family relationships, and obligations related to school and work. many good ideas, was decided to be assault survivors who had sought medical taken on a very unhealthy bent. We are care for their injuries could be denied health It is hard to see any good coming from this insurance coverage at a later date. The rea- latest attempt to repeal the ACA and all of now paying the price for that. We are son? Health insurers often categorized rape the care it has brought to survivors of sexual going to continue to see that unless we as a pre-existing health condition. violence. change it. We are changing that for the In one widely reported case, a 45-year-old Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield better. woman met two men at a bar in Florida who 1 minute to the gentlewoman from One of the strongest voices that we bought her a drink. Hours later, she found Washington (Ms. DELBENE). have had in this body is someone who herself lying by the side of the road with in- Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, this de- has actually taken it as his living to juries indicating that she had been raped and structive legislation hurts middle class take care of people. Dr. BURGESS not that the men had spiked her drink. Her doc- families and threatens massive disrup- only came to this Congress with a tor prescribed a treatment of anti-viral, tion to our healthcare system. And it strong voice of not only what doctors post-HIV exposure drugs to protect against has only gone from bad to worse. HIV transmission. and the medical profession have, but I When the woman lost her health insurance Stripping protections from 133 mil- think it gives us an insight into what several months after the attack, she was un- lion Americans with preexisting condi- patients need as well. He has been a able to obtain new insurance due to the tions isn’t just wrong, it is inhumane. clarion voice through this whole proc- health care treatment she had received for Nobody in this country should go bank- ess, before ObamaCare, during the dis- the assault. She went without health insur- rupt trying to afford the medical care aster of ObamaCare, and now as we ance for three years. they need to stay alive. look to fix the problems that have ex- Stories like these prompted the National This isn’t about politics; it is about isted. Women’s Law Center to launch a campaign human decency and who we are as called ‘‘Being a Woman Is Not a Pre-Existing I yield as much time as he may con- Condition.’’ It was so popular that then- Americans. It is about people like sume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi adopted the Jackie, a cancer survivor from Snoho- BURGESS). phrase in her pro-health reform talking mish who says the Affordable Care Act Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, how did points with media, and the New York Times saved her life. we get to this point?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.008 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 The Affordable Care Act is simply have plunged, as insurers have hiked Additionally, our bill helps further not working for the American people. up premiums year after year to com- bend the Medicaid cost curve by shift- It is limiting choices. It is raising pensate for unhealthy risk pools. ing the program toward a per bene- costs. It is leaving millions without ac- To change this, there is relaxation of ficiary allotment. Per beneficiary al- cess to care. And unfortunately, these the 5-to-1 ratio. It will lower premium lotments set limits on the annual are not just talking points but very costs and provide necessary opportuni- growth for per capita expenditures for real issues affecting very real Ameri- ties to stabilize markets. We also give which the States will receive matching cans. States the option, the choice to go funds from the Federal Government. The Affordable Care Act has left the higher or go lower, which honors the Per beneficiary allotments create individual market in shambles and has spirit of federalism. greater fiscal accountability and en- driven insurers away from offering cov- Additionally, we are repealing the ac- sure that the program can continue to erage. Now, we are seeing one-third of tuarial values mandate to provide in- exist for years to come. all counties in the United States of surers with additional flexibility to This is not a new idea. This was an America with only a single insurer. offer more coverage options. The re- idea put forward by President Bill Clin- And among the plans that have chosen quirement for insurers to offer speci- ton and, at one time, supported by to remain in these markets, there have fied Bronze, Silver, and Gold level tiers every Democratic Member of the Sen- been widespread, double-digit premium has limited consumer choice, driving ate in 1995. increases. In Texas, premiums have even more individuals away from seek- Second, the American Health Care jumped 29 percent a year, on average, ing coverage and further contributing Act increases the amount of flexibility from 2014 to 2017. to the collapse of the healthcare mar- that States have in managing their The markets are in difficulty. They kets. Medicaid program. The bill scales back are failing to live up to the promise To further supplement these efforts, the Affordable Care Act mandates that made 7 years ago, that Americans we are establishing the Patient and have limited a State’s ability to tailor would be able to receive ‘‘affordable State Stability Fund. This fund pro- plans toward the needs of beneficiaries. care.’’ vides States access to a total of over States can and States should be trust- As we knew then, and we still know $140 billion over 10 years to promote in- ed to effectively manage the needs of now, this was an empty promise and novative solutions to lower costs and their Medicaid beneficiaries. The has priced over 19 million Americans increase access to health care for their American Health Care Act will allow out of the market. What is worse, these unique patient populations. them to do so. individuals are forced to pay the indi- Mr. Speaker, the goal is simple, to Additionally, the American Health vidual mandate penalty or seek a hard- provide States with maximum flexi- Care Act furthers the goal of providing ship exemption because of the cost to bility in how they address the cost of the States with greater flexibility in purchase and use their health insur- care for their citizens. The American managing their Medicaid programs by ance. Health Care Act provides States with providing States with the option to im- Mr. Speaker, 11 months ago, Speaker options for how to use funds, including plement two additional opportunities: RYAN released the Better Way plan to providing financial assistance for high- work requirements and block grants save the Nation’s healthcare system cost individuals, incentivizing insurer for Medicaid. and to bring relief to the American participation in those markets, reduc- When the Affordable Care Act was people. This plan, which served as the ing the cost of insurance, promoting being debated, some of the most con- blueprint for the American Health Care access to preventive services, and re- sistent complaints that we heard Act, laid out policies to stabilize the ducing out-of-pocket costs for patients. throughout the discussion came from markets damaged by the Affordable The Congressional Budget Office esti- Governors and State representatives Care Act, repeal the burdensome Af- mated that a combination of the Sta- expressing concerns about the negative fordable Care Act taxes and mandates bility Fund and other proconsumer consequences that they saw on the ho- that have hindered innovation and lim- changes would reduce premiums by 10 rizon. ited access to care. So let’s take a look percent below current projections of This time around, we chose to engage at what the American Health Care Act 2026. our State counterparts in the discus- does. We want patients to have access to sion and listen to their input as we de- First and foremost, the American high-quality, affordably priced health signed the bill; and at the top of their Health Care Act provides immediate coverage. The Patient and State Sta- list was a desire to see the work re- relief to the State insurance markets. bility Fund can help States lower costs quirements built into the Medicaid and As Republicans, we know that one-size- and can increase access to high quality the expansion populations, and the op- fits-all works for no one, and certainly health care for their citizens. portunity to work with Medicaid as a did not work for the individual mar- In addition to supporting the insur- block grant. kets. The States should have the flexi- ance markets, the American Health Republicans trust that States know bility to support their insurance mar- Care Act creates needed reforms to the what works for their respective popu- kets and ensure that plans can con- Medicaid program itself. Without any lations, and we are not going to stand tinue to provide options for coverage. changes, the current Medicaid expan- in the way of States seeking to design To do this, we relax two of the more sion is expected to cost $1 trillion in 10 Medicaid programs that work for them. egregious market regulations that years’ time—$1 trillion a year in 10 Finally, the American Health Care were imposed under the Affordable years’ time. Medicaid needs reform so Act provides additional resources to Care Act: the mandate that premiums that States can continue to provide bolster State safety net providers. The cannot vary for younger and older coverage to children, people with dis- bill provides increases to the Commu- Americans by more than a 3-to-1 ratio abilities, and other vulnerable groups, nity Health Center Fund, offers en- and the mandate creating fixed actu- the very populations that this safety hanced funding to support the safety arial values for plans. net program was created to serve. net providers in States that did not ex- The mandate limiting a plan’s ability To address these concerns, the Amer- pand Medicaid, and ends the cuts to to set premiums by age has driven up ican Health Care Act first phases out Disproportionate Share Hospital pay- the cost of coverage for younger and the Medicaid expansion, not tradi- ments, cuts that are going to occur healthier Americans and, subsequently, tional Medicaid but Medicaid expan- under current law on October 1 of this pushed them away from seeking cov- sion. The expansion has hurt State year. erage by the millions. Of the over 19 budgets and limited States’ abilities to We are committed to ensuring that million Americans who have ensure that resources will continue to our local providers can continue to de- sidestepped the individual market, it is be available for the vulnerable popu- liver lifesaving care and that the estimated that as many as 45 percent lations for which Medicaid was de- American Health Care Act turns this of these individuals are under the age signed. By phasing out expansion, we commitment into action. For the mil- of 35. Without these younger Ameri- are providing States with greater budg- lions of Americans in rural and medi- cans seeking coverage, the markets et autonomy. cally underserved areas, these actions

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.010 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4119 will provide needed relief that was un- There is no substitute for fundamental, un- fundamental failing of the bill—that mil- dercut by the Affordable Care Act and equivocal protections for people with pre-ex- lions of Americans will lose their health in- will allow these Americans to continue isting conditions. surance as a direct result of this proposal. to have access to care. The AHCA, including the potential amend- ‘‘High-risk pools are not a new idea. Prior ment, would undermine vital safeguards to the enactment of the Affordable Care Act, Moving forward, together, these ef- against being charged more for insurance 35 states operated high-risk pools, and they forts will provide meaningful reform based on health status. Increasing funding were not a panacea for Americans with pre- and relief for the States and for the in- for risk sharing programs and consumer fi- existing medical conditions. The history of dividuals seeking health care. We are nancial assistance does not address the le- high-risk pools demonstrates that Americans stabilizing the markets, reforming gitimate challenges built into these pro- with pre-existing conditions will be stuck in Medicaid in the most substantive and posals. second-class health care coverage—if they consequential way in its 52-year his- The other equally important problems are able to obtain coverage at all. with the AHCA remain, including: tory, and ensuring that all Americans ‘‘Not only would the AHCA eliminate Allowing states to waive the guarantee of health insurance coverage for millions of can maintain access to care through essential health benefits, which would: Americans, the legislation would, in many local safety net providers. Segment the market into plans for sick cases, eliminate the ban against charging We do recognize there is still more people and plans for healthy people, driving those with underlying medical conditions work to be done in health care, and up the cost of plans for people with serious vastly more for their coverage.’’ that is why we only consider the Amer- health care needs ‘‘America should not go backward to the ican Health Care Act to be the begin- Undermine the protection against annual time when our fellow citizens with pre-exist- ning. It is the key that gets us through and lifetime coverage caps, a critical safe- ing health conditions faced high costs for guard for patients the door into additional health reform. limited coverage, if they were able to obtain Eliminating Medicaid expansion coverage coverage at all. The AMA urges congres- From here, we will work with Sec- for millions of Americans and altering the sional leaders and the Administration to retary Price at the Department of program’s financing structure in a way that pursue a bipartisan dialogue on alternative Health and Human Services to further jeopardizes coverage of new and innovative policies that provide patients with access deregulate the marketplace and in- treatments and coverage to high quality care and pre- crease consumer choice in the Increasing out-of-pocket costs for many serve the safety net for vulnerable popu- healthcare markets, and we will en- Americans, including some of the sickest and lations.’’ elderly among us BACKGROUND ON HIGH-RISK POOLS hance the American Health Care Act Given the numerous shortcomings of the with additional legislative efforts to American Health Care Act in serving the pa- A January report from the American Acad- further the goal of lowering healthcare tients we represent, our organizations have emy of Actuaries notes that ‘‘enrollment has costs. no choice but to oppose this legislation and generally been low, coverage has been lim- Mr. Speaker, this should be a very urge all Representatives to vote against it, ited and expensive, they require external funding, and they have typically operated at exciting time in health care. With all with or without the Upton and MacArthur amendments. a loss . . . Removing high-risk individuals of the knowledge that has been gained from the insured risk pools reduces costs in PATIENT ADVOCACY GROUPS over the years in the practice of medi- the private market only temporarily. Over cine, I am humbled to be here today American Cancer Society Cancer Action Net- time, even lower-cost individuals in the indi- speaking in support of this legislation. work vidual market can incur high health care It will begin the much-awaited proc- American Heart Association costs, which would put upward pressure on ess of unwinding the Affordable Care American Lung Association premiums.’’ Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Act and will finally return patients to According to the Kaiser Family Founda- March of Dimes tion: the center of health care. National Organization for Rare Disorders State high-risk pools featured premiums b 0945 National MS Society above standard non-group market rates— WomenHeart: The National Coalition for with most states capping them at 150%–200% Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, wow. I Women with Heart Disease of standard rates. Many also featured high yield myself such time as I may con- MEDIA CONTACTS deductibles, some $5,000 or more. sume, and to rebut the gentleman from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Despite the fact that many individuals Texas, let me include in the RECORD a Network, Alissa Crispino. were forced into high-risk pools because of a letter from the American Cancer Soci- American Heart Association, Abbey pre-existing condition, nearly all states ex- ety, the American Diabetes Associa- Dively. cluded coverage for these conditions for 6–12 tion, the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Allison months. the American Lung Association, the MacMunn. Almost all high-risk pools imposed life- time limits on covered services, and some Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Juve- Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Jessica Row- lands. imposed annual limits. nile Diabetes Foundation, the March of March of Dimes, Cindy Pellegrini. Some states capped or closed enrollment. Dimes, the National Multiple Sclerosis National Organization for Rare Disorders, Combined net losses for the state high-risk Society, the National Organization for Jennifer Huron. pools totaled more than $1.2 billion for 2011, Rare Disorders, and the National Coali- National MS Society, Eileen Curran. or $5,510 per enrollee, on average. tion for Women with Heart Disease. WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Furthermore, a 2010 paper by James Women with Heart Disease, Tom Murphy. Capretta and Tom Miller that appeared in LEADING PATIENT ADVOCACY GROUPS REMAIN National Affairs estimated that the cost of OPPOSED TO THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I also adequately funded high risk pools would be EIGHT ORGANIZATIONS ISSUE STATEMENT include in the RECORD a statement $15 billion to $20 billion per year. CRITICIZING UPTON AGREEMENT from the American Medical Associa- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I also WASHINGTON, May 3, 2017.—Earlier today, tion in opposition to this bill. include in the RECORD a letter from the House Energy and Commerce Committee [From the American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physi- Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) issued a press May 3, 2017] release stating that an amendment proposed cians in opposition to this bill. AMA WARNS THAT PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE by Representative Fred Upton (R-MI) to the AMERICAN ACADEMY OF AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT DO NOT REM- American Health Care Act (AHCA) provides FAMILY PHYSICIANS, EDY BILL’S SHORTCOMINGS ‘‘protection and certainty for patients with May 3, 2017. pre-existing conditions.’’ Eight leading pa- DESPITE AMENDMENTS TO BILL, MILLIONS OF JIM MCGOVERN, tient groups, listed below, issued the fol- AMERICANS WOULD STILL LOSE HEALTH IN- Representative, House of Representatives, lowing statement in response: SURANCE COVERAGE Washington, DC. Despite the Upton amendment, we remain CHICAGO.—American Medical Association DEAR REP. JIM MCGOVERN: Despite recent strongly opposed to the American Health (AMA) President Andrew W. Gurman, M.D., activities and amendments, the American Care Act and urge Congress to consider the issued the following statement today about Health Care Act (H.R. 1628) remains a highly people at the heart of this decision. The var- proposed changes to the American Health flawed proposal that will destabilize our ious patchwork solutions offered by law- Care Act (AHCA): health care system, cause significant loss of makers would still leave the millions of pa- ‘‘None of the legislative tweaks under con- coverage, and allow for the discrimination tients we represent, who have serious and sideration changes the serious harm to pa- against patients based on their gender, age, chronic health conditions, at risk of not tients and the health care delivery system if and health status. For these reasons, the being able to access life-saving treatments AHCA passes. Proposed changes to the bill American Academy of Family Physicians and care. tinker at the edges without remedying the (AAFP) continues to oppose the AHCA and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.012 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 encourages the House of Representatives to older Americans and some of our most vul- surance. We estimate that the bill’s changes reject this failed policy. nerable. Specifically, the American Health to current law’s tax credits alone could in- The fact remains that the AHCA will: Care Act will weaken the fiscal sustain- crease premium costs by more than $5,800 for Cause more than 24 million people to lose ability of Medicare; dramatically increase a 64-year old earning $15,000. Overall, both their health care coverage, including more premium and out-of-pocket costs for 50–64 the bill’s tax credit changes and 5:1 age rat- than 7 million with employer-sponsored cov- year olds purchasing coverage on the indi- ing would result in skyrocketing cost in- erage. vidual insurance market; allow insurance creases for older Americans. In their anal- Destabilize the individual health insurance companies to once again discriminate ysis, CBO found that a 64 year old earning market. against those with pre-existing conditions; $26,500 a year would see their premiums in- Create a race to the bottom by eliminating substantially increase the number of Ameri- crease by $12,900—758 percent—from $1,700 to any standards with respect to minimum in- cans without insurance; and put at risk mil- $14,600 a year. surance benefits. lions of children and adults with disabilities Current law prohibits insurance companies Enact draconian cuts in the Medicaid pro- and poor seniors who depend on the Medicaid from discriminating against individuals due gram that will have an immediate negative program to access long-term services and to a pre-existing condition. The bill would impact on low-income individuals, children, supports and other benefits. repeal pre-existing condition protections and and millions of senior citizens who rely on Our members and others 50 years of age would once again allow insurance companies the program. and older care deeply about health care and to charge Americans more—we estimate up Eliminate community rating and return to want to know where their elected leaders to $25,000 more—due to a pre-existing condi- medical underwriting, thus allowing insurers stand. Recognizing the importance of the up- tion. As a result, the 40 percent of 50- to 64- to discriminate against individuals based on coming vote on the American Health Care year-olds (about 25 million people) who have their gender, age, and health status. Act, AARP intends to inform our members, a deniable pre-existing condition risk losing Deny individuals protection against annual and others over age 50, how their elected offi- access to affordable coverage. The Upton and lifetime spending caps, thus threatening cials voted. We’ll communicate the results of Amendment, which would add funds to ad- the financial stability of millions of individ- the vote in our widely-circulated publica- dress the impact of premium increases for uals and families in the future. tions, in e-mail alerts, in our online chan- those with pre-existing conditions, would do Over the past few days there has been an nels, and through the media. Again, we urge little to mitigate the massive premium in- effort to advance policies that seek to pro- all Representatives to vote NO on the Amer- crease for some of the most vulnerable tect individuals with pre-existing conditions ican Health Care Act in its current form. Americans. AARP strongly opposes any from facing discrimination in insurance un- MEDICARE weakening of the law’s pre-existing condi- derwriting as a result of their health status. tion protections which benefit millions of The American Health Care Act repeals pro- Despite a willingness to spend more money Americans. on these proposals, the current efforts on visions in current law that have strength- ened Medicare’s fiscal outlook, specifically, MEDICAID AND LONG-TERM SERVICES AND pre-existing conditions fail to accomplish SUPPORTS their goal. High-risk pools are inherently the repeal of the additional 0.9 percent pay- AARP opposes the provisions of the Amer- flawed and expensive. The proposals under roll tax on higher-income workers. Repeal- ing this provision would remove billions ican Health Care Act that create a per capita consideration provide inadequate funding for cap financing structure in the Medicaid pro- an inadequate period of time, thus creating from the Hospital Insurance trust fund, has- ten the insolvency of Medicare, and diminish gram. We are concerned that these provi- an under-funded and temporary solution for sions could endanger the health, safety, and the millions of Americans with pre-existing Medicare’s ability to pay for services in the future. care of millions of individuals who depend on conditions. We find it regrettable that Con- the essential services provided through Med- INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE INSURANCE MARKET gress would seek to relegate individuals with icaid. CBO found that the bill would cut high health care needs to a program that has Currently, about 25 million Americans age Medicaid funding by $880 billion over 2017– a questionable history and would face uncer- 50–64 have a pre-existing condition, about 6.1 2026, about 25 percent less than what it tain financial stability in the future. million purchase insurance in the non-group projects under current law. Medicaid is a By removing critical consumer protections market, and nearly 3.2 million are currently vital safety net and intergenerational life- that collectively ensure that the millions of eligible to receive subsidies for health insur- line for millions of individuals, including individuals with pre-existing conditions can ance coverage through either the federal over 17.4 million low-income seniors and continue to purchase affordable health care health benefits exchange or a state-based ex- children and adults with disabilities who coverage, the AHCA would result in higher change (exchange). Since passage of the rely on the program for critical health care premiums and higher deductibles for mil- ACA, the number of 50–64 year old Americans and long-term services and supports (LTSS, lions. Additionally, the negative impact of who are uninsured has dropped by half. We i.e., assistance with daily activities such as the AHCA is not limited to the individual in- are deeply concerned that the AHCA would eating, bathing, dressing, managing medica- surance market. These policies also may im- be a significant step backwards and result in tions, and transportation). Older adults and pact the more than 130 million people with millions of older Americans who cannot af- people with disabilities now account for over employer-sponsored insurance. ford their health care, including many sim- sixty percent of Medicaid spending, and cuts Thank you. ply losing their health care. Based on CBO of this magnitude will result in loss of bene- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I also estimates, approximately 14 million Ameri- fits and services for this vulnerable popu- include in the RECORD a statement cans will lose coverage next year, while a lation. from the AARP in strong opposition to total of 24 million Americans would lose cov- Of these 17.4 million individuals: 6.9 mil- erage over the next 10 years. lion are ages 65 and older (which equals more this bill. Affordability of both premiums and cost- than 1 in every 7 elderly Medicare bene- AARP, sharing is critical to older Americans and ficiaries); 10.5 million are children and adults May 3, 2017. their ability to obtain and access health living with disabilities; and about 10.8 mil- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: Older Americans care. A typical 50–64 year old seeking cov- lion are so poor or have a disability that care deeply about access to and affordability erage through an exchange has a median an- they qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid of health care. With the addition of the nual income of under $25,000 and already (dual eligibles). Dual eligibles account for al- Upton Amendment, as reported, we once pays significant out-of-pocket costs for most 33 percent of Medicaid spending. While again write to share our opposition to the health care. We have serious concerns—rein- they comprise a relatively small percentage American Health Care Act (AHCA) and urge forced by the CBO estimate—that the bill of enrollees, they account for a dispropor- you to vote NO. Changes under consideration under consideration will dramatically in- tionate share of total Medicare and Medicaid that would allow states to waive important crease health care costs for 50–64 year olds spending. consumer protections—allowing insurance who purchase health care through an ex- Individuals with disabilities of all ages and companies to once again charge Americans change due both to the changes in age rating older adults rely on critical Medicaid serv- with pre-existing conditions more because from 3:1 (already a compromise that requires ices, including home and community-based they’ve had cancer, diabetes or heart dis- uninsured older Americans to pay three services (HCBS) for assistance with daily ac- ease—would make a bad bill even worse. This times more than younger individuals) to 5:1 tivities such as eating, bathing, dressing, would be devastating for the 25 million (or more) and reductions in current tax cred- and home modifications; nursing home care; Americans 50–64 who have a deniable pre-ex- its for older Americans. CBO concluded that and other benefits such as hearing aids and isting condition. The Upton amendment the bill will substantially raise premiums for eyeglasses. would do little to reduce the massive pre- older people and force many into lower qual- In providing a fixed amount of federal mium increases for those with pre-existing ity plans. funding per person, this approach to financ- conditions. Age rating plus reduced tax credits equal ing would likely result in overwhelming cost Throughout consideration of the AHCA, we an unaffordable age tax. Our previous esti- shifts to states, state taxpayers, and families have been expressing serious concerns about mates on the age-rating change showed that unable to shoulder the costs of care without the impact that this legislation will have on premiums for current coverage could in- sufficient federal support. This would result older Americans. The Congressional Budget crease by up to $3,200 for a 64 year old. In ad- in cuts to program eligibility, services, or Office (CBO)’s last estimate further dem- dition, the bill reduced the tax credits avail- both—ultimately harming some of our na- onstrates the harmful impact of this bill on able for older Americans to help purchase in- tion’s most vulnerable citizens.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.005 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4121 The bill also repeals the six percent en- one that everyone who votes for this we debated bills to do away with the hanced federal Medicaid match for states outrageous proposal is about to plunge health care. ‘‘Repeal and replace,’’ you that take up the Community First Choice into. shouted. Millions and millions of dol- (CFC) Option. CFC provides states with a fi- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield nancial incentive to offer HCBS to help older lars’ worth of time on this floor were adults and people with disabilities live in 3 minutes to the distinguished gentle- spent on what was absolutely a hoax their homes and communities where they woman from New York (Ms. SLAUGH- because you had no repeal-and-replace want to be. About 90 percent of older adults TER), the ranking member of the Rules plan. It was simply all talk, and now want to remain in their own homes and com- Committee. you have got to rush through this so munities for as long as possible. HCBS are Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I you can do your big tax bill. also cost effective. On average, in Medicaid, certainly thank my colleague for yield- I am sorry to see this happen. It is a the cost of HCBS per person is one-third the ing to me. sad day for the United States. cost of institutional care. Taking away the Mr. Speaker, I was fortunate enough enhanced match could disrupt services for Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I feel older adults and people with disabilities in to bring the ACA to the floor after bad for the gentleman because it ap- the states that are already providing serv- years of working on it and experts pears as if he only has one speaker sup- ices under CFC and would result in a loss of writing it. It had such incredible things porting this rule and the bill, and near- about $12 billion for HCBS over ten years. in it. I think it would behoove us this ly our entire caucus wants to speak on PRESCRIPTION DRUGS morning to talk about what every one this against the Republican healthcare The AHCA would repeal the fee on manu- of us who has health insurance is going repeal bill. So I was wondering whether facturers and importers of branded prescrip- to lose because the benefits of the ACA the gentleman might consider sharing tion drugs, which currently is projected to accrued to all of us. some time with us? add $24.8 billion to the Medicare Part B trust Now, you need to know first that we Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Will the fund between 2017 and 2026. Rather than re- are going to lose the fact that 85 cents peal this fee for Medicare, AARP believes gentleman yield? Congress must do more to reduce the burden of every premium dollar will go for Mr. MCGOVERN. I yield to the gen- of high prescription drug costs on consumers health care. It will go back to insur- tleman from Georgia. and taxpayers, and we urge action on bipar- ance profits. We are also going to lose Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. I thank the tisan solutions. the fact that families could no longer gentleman for yielding. As a wonderful AARP remains willing to work with you to go bankrupt because of health care. manager of time, he will be able to ensure that we maintain a strong health care The largest cause of bankruptcy are parse the time as best he may see fit. system that ensures robust insurance mar- families with medical bills, and the ket protections, controls costs, improves I have other speakers who probably quality, and provides affordable coverage to ACA took care of that. Nobody ever will be coming by, so I will just encour- all Americans. However, the AHCA does not talks about that much, but if a single age the manager to manage his time accomplish these goals, and we continue to person spent $4,500 a year on health well. urge you to vote NO. care, a family $12,500, the insurance Mr. MCGOVERN. It looks kind of Sincerely, companies picked up the rest of it. lonely over there. It speaks volumes NANCY A. LEAMOND, How about that? That is a pretty about how much support there is for Executive Vice President and Chief good loss that we are going to face. So this bill. Advocacy and Engagement Officer. why in the world are we rushing into Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, if this this thing? gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAS- bill were so great, these organizations Well, the President of the United CRELL). would be supporting the Republican States, Donald Trump, verified as re- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, now I bill, not opposing it; and they are cently as last Saturday evening in have to say to my friends on the other strongly opposing it. Pennsylvania that we have to do this side: You sold out cheap—as we say in Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the first because $800 billion has to come New Jersey—all to give a tax cut to in- gentleman from Texas (Mr. DOGGETT). out of health care so that they could do Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, the surance companies and the most well the tax bill with great corporate tax harsh indifference of these Republicans off. The Upton amendment is, of to the well-being of so many Americans relief for the 1 percent. So as you lose course, an admission. is startling. Trump may temporarily your health care, your ability to go to After 7 years, you came up with this? bury the lies central to this plan with the doctor, and your preexisting condi- You have got to be kidding me. This a tweet storm—with fake news. But tions because risk pools don’t work, be is worse than a Fellini movie. At least these Republicans who follow him will comforted by the fact that we are in he didn’t take 7 years to distinguish not be able to find an excuse as one the hands of people who put the needs between fantasy and reality. family after another suffers. of corporations and wealthy people For a New Jerseyan with asthma, Today’s surprise attack on American ahead of the citizens of the United this will mean a $4,340 premium sur- health care has been widely condemned States. charge; for autism, $5,510. The list goes by healthcare professionals across the Just in case you think people aren’t on and on—60, $70,000 if you have can- country and those who represent the paying any attention, for the first time cer. disabled and sick, like the American in my life, my office has 185 applica- But less discussed is their attempt to Cancer Society and the March of tions for six seats as interns in the rid the essential health benefits which Dimes. summertime. It is unheard of. Calls in removes yet another ACA protection Jimmy Kimmel, know that your my office have gone from about 10 a for everyone. So now the Republicans baby was fortunate, but others born day to 80, all of them talking about have hit for the cycle. with a disability will face the barrier of this. I have never seen political suicide You hit for the cycle. You jeopard- preexisting conditions. in my life like I am seeing today. I ized the health care of nearly every They didn’t listen to the AARP, think our leader put it so succinctly: single American—those on Medicare, which knows that those Americans too you are tattooing that on your fore- those on Medicaid, those in the ACA young for Medicare by a few years will heads. exchanges, and now 150 million people get socked with unaffordable pre- Now, those people out there who have with employer coverage. You sold out. miums. They don’t know what this really gotten sort of used to this, all It is a shame. I like most of you, but monstrosity of a bill costs to the tax- we have heard all the way through is you are on the wrong path. payer. They don’t know how many that this is going to fall apart. The It took you 7 years for this? families will lose coverage or how problems going on with the ACA right I will never yield. I will never yield. many jobs will be lost. They don’t real- now are that the insurance companies The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- ly know what is in this bill. They know have uncertainty because of what has bers are reminded to direct their re- only that the Pied Piper of Trump been going on here. marks to the Chair, not to each other. Tower is playing a tune today and they I need to bring up one of the greatest Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- must dance. hoaxes in America in any institution er, I reserve the balance of my time. There is much talk about high-risk that passes laws. For over 60 times, you Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- pools. The real high-risk pool is the brought to the floor of this House and clude in the RECORD a letter from the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.007 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 American College of Physicians in op- healthcare coverage, or advance another tive services, mental health and substance position to the bill. benefit to the public interest in the state, in- use disorder treatments, and even physician cluding the guarantee of coverage for per- visits, prescription drugs and hospitaliza- AMERICAN COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS, sons with preexisting medical conditions. tions. April 24, 2017. The Secretary shall approve applications Prior to passage of the ACA, 62% of indi- Hon. PAUL RYAN, within 90 days of determining that an appli- vidual market enrollees did not have cov- Speaker, House of Representatives, cation is complete.’’ [Emphasis added in erage of maternity services, 34 did not have Washington, DC. italics]. substance-use disorder-services, 18% did not Hon. NANCY PELOSI, In other words, as long as a state attested have mental-health services and 9% did not Minority Leader, House of Representatives, that there was a ‘‘benefit to the public,’’ in- have coverage for prescription drugs. A re- Washington, DC. surers would be once again allowed to charge cent independent analysis found that the Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, more to people with pre-existing conditions, AHCA’s repeal of current law required bene- Majority Leader, Washington, DC. or decline to cover needed benefits like phy- fits would result in patients on average pay- Hon. CHARLES SCHUMER, sician and hospital visits, maternity care ing $1,952 more for cancer drugs; $1,807 for Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, and contraception, mental health and sub- drugs for heart disease; $1,127 for drugs to Washington, DC. stance use disorder treatments, preventive treat lung diseases; $1,607 for drugs to treat DEAR SPEAKER RYAN, MINORITY LEADER services, and prescription drugs. mental illnesses; $4,940 for inpatient admis- PELOSI, MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL, AND This would take us back to the days when sion for mental health; $4,555 for inpatient MINORITY LEADER SCHUMER: On behalf of the people had to fill out intrusive insurance admission for substance use treatment; and American College of Physicians (ACP), I am company applications to document their pre- $8,501 for maternity care. Such increased writing to urge Congress to move away from vious health history, even before being ad- costs would make it practically impossible the harmful changes to patient care that vised what the premium would be based on for many patients to avail themselves of the would occur if the American Health Care Act their individual health risk. Unlike commu- care they need. The result will be delays in (AHCA) were to become law, and to instead nity rating, which bases premiums based on getting treatment until their illnesses work for bipartisan solutions to improve the the expected costs associated with all per- present at a more advanced, less treatable, Affordable Care Act (ACA) rather than re- sons in the insurance pool (adjusted only by and more expensive stage, or not keeping up pealing and replacing it. We believe that the age, tobacco use, and family size), the Lim- with life-saving medications prescribed by AHCA, which would repeal and replace the ited Waiver would again allow insurers in their physicians. most important coverage and consumer pro- states that obtain a waiver to again charge Allowing states to eliminate the EHB will tections created by the ACA, is so fundamen- people exorbitant and unaffordable pre- threaten our nation’s fight against the tally flawed that it cannot be made accept- miums for their pre-existing conditions. opioid epidemic. A study concluded that with able. We understand that the leadership in Before the ACA, insurance plans sold in repeal of the ACA, ‘‘approximately 1,253,000 the House of Representatives continues to the individual insurance market in all but people with serious mental disorders and explore ways to bring a modified version of five states typically maintained lists of so- about 2.8 million Americans with a sub- the AHCA to a vote, based on a draft amend- called ‘‘declinable’’ medical conditions in- stance use disorder, of whom about 222,000 ment reportedly being developed by Rep- cluding asthma, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, have an opioid disorder, would lose some or resentatives MacArthur and Meadows, a stroke, or pregnancy, or having been diag- all of their insurance coverage.’’ Finally, al- summary of which was made available to the nosed with cancer in the past 10 years. Even lowing states to drop important benefits like public through news organizations. This if a revised bill would not explicitly repeal maternity, substance use disorder treat- amendment would make the harmful AHCA the current law’s guaranteed-issue require- ment, and preventive services will do little even worse by creating new coverage barriers ment which requires insurers to offer cov- to reduce premiums. A report by Milliman for patients with pre-existing conditions and erage to persons with pre-existing conditions found that the main drivers of premium weakening requirements that insurers cover like these guaranteed issue without commu- costs were ambulatory patient services, hos- essential benefits. nity rating allows insurers to charge as pitalization, and prescription drugs. These The American College of Physicians is the much as they believe a patient’s treatment are crucial services that form the core of any largest medical specialty organization and will cost. The result would be that many pa- health insurance plan. the second-largest physician group in the tients with pre-existing conditions would be To be clear: while some younger and United States. ACP members include 148,000 offered coverage that costs them thousands healthier persons might be offered lower pre- internal medicine physicians (internists), re- of dollars more for the care that they need, miums in states that obtained a ‘‘Limited lated subspecialists, and medical students. and in the case of patients with expensive Waiver’’ of community-rating and essential Internal medicine physicians are specialists conditions like cancer, even hundreds of health benefits, it would be at the expense of who apply scientific knowledge and clinical thousands more. making coverage unaffordable for those who An amendment to the AHCA reported out expertise to the diagnosis, treatment, and need it most, older and sicker persons, and of the Rules Committee on April 6th to es- compassionate care of adults across the spec- result in skimpy ‘‘bare-bones’’ insurance for tablish a ‘‘Federal Invisible Risk Sharing trum from health to complex illness. many others that does not cover the medical Program,’’ which would create a fund that The draft MacArthur-Meadows amendment care they would need if and when they get states could use to reimburse insurers for would create what is known as the ‘‘Limited sick. Waiver Option’’ that would allow states to some of the costs associated with insuring Finally, even without the Limited Waiver eliminate or severely weaken vital ACA sicker patients, would not offset the harm Amendment, ACP continues to believe that Title I consumer protections—specifically, done to patients with pre-existing conditions the AHCA has numerous other provisions community rating and essential health bene- by allowing the Limited Waiver of commu- and policies that that will do great harm to fits (EHBs)—returning the country to the nity rating and essential benefit protections. patients including: pre-ACA days when persons with pre-existing The pre-ACA experience with high-risk pools The phase-out of the higher federal match ‘‘declinable’’ medical conditions in most was that many had long waiting lists, and of- in states that have opted to expand Medicaid states were priced out of the market and the fered inadequate coverage with high and the ban on non-expansion states being insurance products available in the indi- deductibles and insufficient benefits. Unless able to access the higher federal contribu- vidual market did not cover medically nec- a national high-risk pool is supported with a tion if they choose to expand Medicaid; essary services. massive infusion of funding it will not be suf- Converting the shared federal-state financ- Specifically: ficient to cover the millions of people with ing structure for Medicaid to one that would The MacArthur-Meadows amendment pre-existing conditions that would be denied cap the federal contribution per enrollee; would create an option for states to obtain or charged more for coverage under the Providing states with a Medicaid block Limited Waivers from certain federal stand- AHCA. One paper estimates that a national grant financing option; ards that would gut existing law consumer high-risk pool would cost $178.1 billion a Eliminating EHBs for Medicaid expansion protections. Based on a summary of the draft year, roughly $176.4 billion more than the an- enrollees; amendment, states could seek Limited Waiv- nual funding provided to the Invisible Risk Imposing work or job search requirements ers for: Sharing Program. Also, shifting people out on certain Medicaid enrollees; Essential Health Benefits (EHBs) of the existing health insurance marketplace Regressive age-based tax credits, combined Community-rating rules, except for the to a high-risk pool would undermine the as- with changes that will allow insurers to following categories, which are not waivable: surance that enrollees could keep their ex- charge older people much higher premiums Gender or Age (except for reductions of the isting coverage. than allowed under current law; 5:1 age ratio previously established) or The Limited Waiver Option will also allow Continuous coverage requirements for pa- Health Status (unless the state has estab- states to seek waivers from the essential tients with pre-existing conditions; lished a high-risk pool or is participating in health benefits required of all plans sold in Legislative or regulatory restrictions that a federal high-risk pool) the individual insurance market, with the would deny or result in discrimination in the To obtain the waiver, states would only result that millions of patients will be at awarding of federal grant funds and/or Med- need to ‘‘attest that the purpose of their re- risk of losing coverage for essential services icaid and Children’s Health Insurance Pro- quested waiver is to reduce premium costs, like maternity care, cancer screening tests gram funding to women’s health clinics that increase the number of persons with and treatments, prescription drugs, preven- are qualified under existing federal law for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.018 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4123 the provision of evidence-based services in- nual limits. And most plans offered We are especially concerned with provi- cluding, but not limited to, provision of con- deductibles of $1,000 or higher. Neither sions allowing state waivers that could erode traception, preventive health screenings, AHCA, nor the new amendment would fully important protections for patients with can- sexually transmitted infection testing and protect patients from any of those condi- cer, including pre-existing condition safe- treatment, vaccines, counseling, rehabilita- tions. guards, coverage of essential services, and tion, and referrals, and; Cancer patients and survivors need insur- access to affordable health insurance. Re- Elimination of the Prevention and Public ance coverage that is affordable, readily ac- moving these protections from current fed- Health Fund, which provides billions in dol- cessible, and protects them from pre-existing eral law allows for a weakening of these crit- lars to the Centers for Disease Control and condition exclusions, annual and lifetime ical provisions in some states and establishes Prevention to prevent and control the spread caps on coverage and extraordinary out-of- a system of inequitable protections across of infectious diseases. pocket costs. Past experience has shown that state lines for cancer patients. We urge pol- The College strongly believes in the first, high-risk pools failed to meet these basic icymakers to ensure that robust require- do no harm principle. Therefore, we continue needs, yet still were a drain on state budg- ments are in place to ensure that all insur- to urge that Congress move away from the ets. ance products cover the full scope of services fundamentally flawed and harmful policies As we have indicated in our earlier letters, and therapies that cancer patients require. that would result from the American Health there are reasonable fixes that could be made ASCO strongly opposes passage of the Care Act and from the changes under consid- to the current law. We stand ready to work AHCA in its current form. We welcome the eration—including the proposed ‘‘Limited with you to develop policies that improve opportunity to address these issues—and to Waiver’’ amendment—that would make the the law and encourage a robust health insur- work toward a better proposal—with you and bill even worse for patients. We urge Con- ance market that provides affordable and your staff. gress to instead start over and seek agree- comprehensive coverage options. Sincerely, ment on bipartisan ways to improve and Sincerely, DANIEL F. HAYES, MD, build on the ACA. The College welcomes the CHRISTOPHER W. HANSEN, FASCO, FACP, opportunity to share our ideas for bipartisan President. President, American solutions that would help make health care Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- Society of Clinical better, more accessible, and more affordable clude in the RECORD a letter from the Oncology. for patients rather than imposing great American Society of Clinical Oncology Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- harm on them as the AHCA would do. against this bill. clude in the RECORD a letter from the Sincerely, AMERICAN SOCIETY OF American Congress of Rehabilitation JACK ENDE, MD, MACP, CLINICAL ONCOLOGY, Medicine against this bill. President. April 27, 2017. AMERICAN CONGRESS OF Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- Hon. PAUL RYAN, REHABILITATION MEDICINE, clude in the RECORD a letter from the Speaker, House of Representatives, May 2, 2017. Cancer Action Network against this Washington, DC. Re Deep Concerns with the American Health bill. DEAR SPEAKER RYAN, On behalf of the Care Act and Related Amendments. American Society of Clinical Oncology CANCER ACTION NETWORK, Hon. PAUL RYAN, (ASCO), I write to express our strong opposi- AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY, Speaker, House of Representatives, tion to the American Health Care Act May 3, 2017. Washington, DC. (AHCA), as currently amended. As the lead- Hon. PAUL RYAN, Hon. NANCY PELOSI, ing professional society representing more Speaker, House of Representatives, Democratic Leader, House of Representatives, than 42,000 physicians worldwide who care Washington, DC. Washington, DC. for people with cancer, ASCO has a unique Hon. NANCY PELOSI, DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: perspective on the law’s potential impact on Minority Leader, House of Representatives, The American Congress of Rehabilitation cancer patients. Our core mission is to en- Medicine (ACRM) writes in reference to the Washington, DC. sure every patient with cancer has meaning- DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND MINORITY LEADER American Health Care Act (AHCA), H.R. 1628, ful access to high quality care. We believe PELOSI: The American Cancer Society Can- and the MacArthur Amendment to the bill. Congress shares this goal and our comments cer Action Network (ACS CAN) is deeply ACRM is an organization of rehabilitation today are in the spirit of advancing that concerned about the reports of additional professionals dedicated to serving people common purpose. amendments to the American Health Care with disabling conditions by supporting re- In January 2017, as Congress embarked search and services that promote health, Act (AHCA), including one that would alleg- upon the repeal and replacement of the Af- edly add $8 billion in new spending for state independence, productivity, and quality of fordable Care Act, ASCO shared a set of guid- life; and meet the needs of rehabilitation cli- high-risk pools. This amendment is particu- ing principles that support improvements to larly egregious because it would further nicians and individuals with disabilities. the current health care system. We also put ACRM is seriously concerned that current incent states to apply for waivers from cur- forth specific areas where people with cancer rent-law market rules that protect patients House proposals will undercut the federal need protections. Our principles rest on the coverage standard for rehabilitation and ha- with pre-existing conditions. belief that any health system reform must Historically, state high-risk pools have bilitation services and devices established ensure all people affected by cancer receive under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Access fallen short of providing coverage of preven- high-quality care. ASCO’s first principle tion, treatment and follow-up care for cancer to rehabilitation enables individuals experi- states, ‘‘all Americans should have access to encing injuries, illnesses, and disabilities to patients and survivors. Segmenting people affordable and sufficient healthcare coverage maximize their quality of life by enhancing with cancer and other serious illnesses away regardless of their income or health status. their health, function, and independence. We from the private marketplace and into high- To ensure protected access, the current ban believe that any ACA repeal and replace bill risk pools absent an adequate and permanent on preexisting condition limitations, elimi- that advances in the House and Senate must source of public funding has never been an nation of annual and lifetime coverage caps, maintain access to rehabilitation and habili- adequate solution. and maintenance of guaranteed renewability tation services and devices. Between 1976 and 2010, 35 states created should be preserved.’’ We take the position In particular, the AHCA (H.R. 1628, as high-risk pools to cover individuals who that ‘‘any efforts to reform the healthcare amended) includes a provision that would could not otherwise purchase insurance in system at the national, state, or local levels allow states to apply for waivers exempting the private market, usually because of a pre- should ensure that individuals with them from compliance with important pa- existing condition. Every one of those risk healthcare insurance can continue to access tient protections that are required by the Af- pools experienced net operating losses year affordable insurance without interruption.’’ fordable Care Act (ACA), including premium after year. Furthermore, high-risk pools did The amended AHCA violates these prin- rating ratios based on age, protections for not result in lower premiums. All of them ciples. consumers disallowing medical status under- set premiums above the non-group market Studies show that when cancer patients do writing (i.e., community rating), and re- average or standard rate in the state, usu- not have adequate insurance they receive quirements for insurers to cover a defined ally by 150–200 percent. Only a few states pro- less care, receive it later, and have worse package of essential health benefits (EHBs), vided additional premium assistance for low- outcomes than those with better insurance which include rehabilitative and habilitative income individuals, leaving many who could coverage. Uninsured and under-insured fami- services and devices. We are deeply con- not afford premiums priced out of the pro- lies facing a cancer diagnosis experience sig- cerned these EHB changes will curtail access gram. Most states also imposed waiting peri- nificant stress. They often are unable to for both children and adults in Medicaid ex- ods before covering preexisting conditions. meet out-of-pocket expenses and even forgo pansion states, as well as private ACA health An individual with a prior cancer diagnosis cancer care in order to pay for necessities of plans. ACRM believes that these provisions often had to wait 6–12 months before the daily living. The AHCA as currently con- will significantly undermine the health in- high-risk pool would cover the costs associ- structed will create or worsen these barriers surance coverage that patients need. ated with cancer treatment or follow-up sur- to care. It will add costs to the system, de- ACRM urges Congress to work in a bipar- vivorship care. Most states imposed limita- crease access to appropriate treatment and tisan manner to improve access to afford- tions on coverage with either lifetime or an- increase existing disparities in care. able, comprehensive care for all Americans,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.011 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 including those with disabilities and chronic the United States; Sarah Meek, Lutheran youth; and collectively, CLC’s members have conditions needing rehabilitation and habili- Services in America Disability Network; and affiliates, partners, and members in every tation services and devices. Laura Weidner, National Multiple Sclerosis state in the nation. DOUGLAS KATZ, MD, FACRM, FAAN, Society. The Affordable Care Act and Medicaid play a crucial role in the lives of children, includ- ACRM President. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- ing those facing the greatest challenges such 1 minute to the gentleman from Massa- as children in poverty; children suffering clude in the RECORD a letter from the chusetts (Mr. MOULTON.) abuse and neglect; children in foster care, Consortium for Citizens with Disabil- Mr. MOULTON. Mr. Speaker, there is and children with disabilities. Medicaid, for ities in strong opposition to this bill. only one reason this bill is on the floor example, provides coverage for approxi- CONSORTIUM FOR CITIZENS today: the President cares more about mately 37 million children, including chil- WITH DISABILITIES, cutting a deal than keeping his prom- dren with disabilities, children in foster care April 28, 2017. ises. and children from low-income families. Chil- DEAR MEMBER OF CONGRESS: The Consor- He promised we would lower costs. dren are the largest group of Medicaid recipi- tium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is ents, and nearly 40 percent of all the nation’s strongly opposed to the amended American That turned out to be a lie. He prom- children rely on Medicaid and CHIP for their Health Care Act. The amended American ised we would expand coverage. That healthcare. Medicaid provides health care Health Care Act retains the original bill’s turned out to be a lie. He promised we treatment and preventive services, mental proposals to dramatically cut Medicaid serv- would protect millions of Americans health care, case management and transpor- ices that are vital to people with disabilities with preexisting conditions. That, too, tation services to and from medical appoint- and seniors through per capita caps, which was a lie. ments for children who are low-income or CCD has opposed. The new amendments—in- Back in Massachusetts at the Aga- disabled. The AHCA’s changes to Medicaid cluding permitting states to seek waivers wam Diner, I met a veteran named Clif, would radically restructure a program that from the protections for people with pre-ex- has worked for more than 50 years to support isting conditions and from the requirement who told me when I was on my way to children’s health. The Medicaid cap would to provide essential health benefits—makes Washington for the first time to go to shift $839 billion to stages, forcing them to the amended AHCA even more harmful to Washington as an American—not as a cut eligibility, benefits, or provider rates people with disabilities. We urge you to op- Democrat or a Republican, but as an that could have disastrous health con- pose this legislation. American. sequences. Medicaid provides services and supports To my Republican colleagues, heed There is no question that the massive cuts that maintain the health, function, inde- Clif’s advice today. Don’t vote as a Re- to Medicaid, increased premiums likely for pendence, and well-being of 10 million enroll- publican. Vote as an American. Don’t millions of families, and eliminating the Es- ees living with disabilities. For many people sential Health Benefits requirements under with disabilities, being able to access timely throw away your credibility to give a current law will seriously harm children and needed care is a life or death matter. The legislative victory to a President who families. Maternity benefits would be among American Health Care Act changes the way will never stick his neck out for any- the many medical services no longer guaran- that the Federal Government funds Med- one other than himself. For what? To teed if this bill were to become law. The icaid—rather than paying states based on betray the people who trusted them? massive Medicaid reductions in substance the actual costs of healthcare for people in I urge my Republican colleagues to abuse treatment will add to the increases na- Medicaid, it sets a cap on the amount of fed- put country before party. Vote ‘‘no’’ on tionwide in the need for child welfare serv- eral support, a cap that is totally unrelated this ridiculous bill. ices because of the surge in opioid addiction. to the actual costs of needed care for enroll- Families caring for children with disabilities ees. This cap is designed to cut Medicaid, and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- will find supports for care at home jeopard- the bill uses those cuts to pay for unrelated bers are reminded to refrain from en- ized. tax cuts. Slashing federal support for Med- gaging in personalities toward the With a record 95% of children with health icaid, which is already a lean program, will President. coverage in our country, the AHCA would force states to cut services and eligibility Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- turn back the clock on progress for children. that put the health and wellbeing of people er, I think it is interesting today since And recent proposed changes to the bill with disabilities at significant risk. we would not be here today if there was would further undermine consumer protec- The newest amendments to the American not the problems that you, Mr. Speak- tions that make health care out of reach for Health Care Act make the bill even more low-income children and their families—thus harmful to people with disabilities. The new er, and I have seen. making the already harmful bill worse for amendments would allow states to easily ob- One-third of this country has one in- children. Polling conducted by the Children’s tain waivers that would allow them to surer, premiums with double-digit in- Leadership Council found 71 percent of par- charge higher premiums to people with pre- creases, people who can afford—maybe ents, including 67 percent of Independent existing conditions, including people with even with subsidies the amount of their parents (of children under the age of 18), disabilities. They also would allow states to plan can’t afford the deductibles and want increased investments in programs seek waivers from the Affordable Care Act’s co-pays. They go to doctors who won’t that help children in the areas of education, requirement to provide essential health ben- take their insurance. health and nutrition, not less as proposed by efits, including crucial services for people the AHCA. with disabilities such as mental health and We are not here by mistake, Mr. Congress has a strong history of working substance use disorder services, prescription Speaker. We are here because on a bipartisan, bicameral basis on issues, drugs, rehabilitative and habilitative serv- ObamaCare is an abject failure. policies and programs important to children. ices and devices, preventative and wellness Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of It is our hope and expectation that members services and chronic disease management, my time. of Congress continue this history, as Con- and pediatric services. These waivers jeop- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- gress works on improving our nation’s ardize the Affordable Care Act’s protections clude in the RECORD a letter from Chil- healthcare system. This legislation would be for people with pre-existing conditions, in- dren’s Leadership Council opposed to a dangerous step backward. We strongly urge you to vote NO. cluding people with disabilities, and CCD op- this bill. poses any roll-back of those protections. Sincerely, The ACA helped millions of people with CHILDREN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL, RANDI SCHMIDT, disabilities and others to gain access to af- May 1, 2017. Executive Director, Children’s fordable and comprehensive health insur- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: The Children’s Leadership Council. Leadership Council opposes the American ance. The amended American Health Care Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- Act is insufficient to help people with dis- Health Care Act (AHCA) because it would jeopardize health care for millions of babies, clude in the RECORD a letter from the abilities meet their healthcare needs, and we Paralyzed Veterans of America against urge you to oppose the bill should it come to children, youth and families. We urge you to a vote. vote NO on this legislation. this bill. Sincerely, The Children’s Leadership Council (CLC) is PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA, Health Task Force Co-chairs: Bethany a coalition of organizations dedicated to im- Washington, DC, May 3, 2017. Lilly, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law; proving the lives and opportunities of Amer- Hon. PAUL RYAN, Dave Machledt, National Health Law Pro- ica’s children. Nationwide, CLC members Speaker, House of Representatives, gram; Peter Thomas, Brain Injury Associa- work to advance the health, education and Washington, DC. tion of America; and Julie Ward, The Arc of well-being of babies, children and youth in Hon. NANCY PELOSI, the United States. order to prepare them for school, work, and Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Long Term Services and Supports Co- life. The CLC is the only national children’s Washington, DC. chairs: Alison Barkoff, Center for Public coalition solely dedicated to supporting in- DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: Representation; Nicole Jorwic, The Arc of vestments in our nation’s children and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) urges

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.013 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4125 rejection of the latest version of the Amer- all Americans’ access to affordable, high and older workers and it undermines the fi- ican Health Care Act (AHCA). PVA is the na- quality health care. nancial strength of Medicare. And the Mac- tion’s only Congressionally-chartered vet- Sincerely, Arthur amendment makes a very bad bill erans’ service organization solely dedicated CARL BLAKE, worse by allowing states to opt out of Af- to representing veterans with spinal cord in- Associate Executive Director. fordable Care Act protections that ensure that people with pre-existing conditions will jury and/or disease. Consequently, we are Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- very concerned about the conflicting infor- be able to obtain comprehensive, affordable clude in the RECORD a letter from the mation circulating about this legislation and health care. Moreover, the MacArthur the adverse impact it could have on our March of Dimes opposed to this bill. amendment would allow insurance compa- members and millions of other people with [From the march of dimes] nies to re-impose caps on annual and life- time limits, even in employer-sponsored cov- disabilities. UNDER AHCA, OVER 6 MILLION WOMEN OF As we understand it, the AHCA cuts $880 erage, putting the health care of those with CHILDBEARING AGE WILL LOSE HEALTH COV- billion out of the Medicaid program in order catastrophic illnesses or injuries at risk. ERAGE to finance tax cuts that will explode the def- Under the Upton amendment, grants to icit and largely assist upper income individ- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: Prior to 2010, low- states that could be used for high-risk pools uals, corporations, and providers. The Med- income adult women could generally only will be increased by 6% or $8 billion over five icaid changes are particularly devastating to obtain Medicaid coverage after they were years. This is a paltry increase. Even the people with disabilities. Under the cap and pregnant. By the time they enrolled in this conservative Mercatus Center described the cut proposal, the federal government would coverage, many of the best opportunities for increase as a ‘‘pittance.’’ High-risk pools no longer share in the costs of providing guaranteeing a healthy pregnancy and would still be grossly underfunded, even if health care services and community services healthy baby had already been missed. states put all of the $138 billion in grant beyond the capped amount. This would Today, states that have expanded Medicaid funding into them. We urge the Congress not eliminate the enhanced federal match for the can extend Medicaid coverage to low-income to ignore the previous experience with state Community First Choice Option under Med- women of childbearing age, giving them the high-risk pools. By segregating those with icaid that provides attendant care services in chance to get healthy before they get preg- pre-existing conditions into separate cov- the community. Thanks to this program, nant. The March of Dimes estimates that ap- erage we know they will face higher pre- many poor veterans with serious non-serv- proximately 6.5 million low income women miums, benefit exclusions, annual and life- ice-connected disabilities have been able to of childbearing age are currently covered time limits on coverage and waiting lists. move from nursing homes into their commu- under Medicaid expansion, giving them ac- It is unacceptable that this bill eliminates nities. The AHCA also weakens Medicaid by cess to treatment for tobacco use, obesity, $500 billion in taxes on the wealthiest 2%, ending the Medicaid expansion earlier and substance abuse, and other conditions that health insurers, pharmaceutical manufactur- offering Medicaid block grants to states. can have a major impact on future preg- ers and medical device makers, while taking health care away from millions. Moreover, Data from the Robert Wood Johnson Foun- nancies. Between 2012 and 2015, the rate of the bill retains the 40% tax on high cost dation shows expansion has helped thousands uninsurance among women of childbearing health plans, which will undermine em- of veterans and their caregivers. age dropped by 40%, with much of that de- For veterans and PVA members in par- cline attributable to Medicaid expansion. ployer-sponsored insurance for working fam- ticular, the AHCA continues several prob- The American Health Care Act (AHCA) ilies by hollowing out coverage and increas- lematic policies of the ACA as well as trou- would do away with these advances by roll- ing out-of-pocket expenses, although it bling new provisions that could affect the ing back Medicaid expansion. Its funda- delays the implementation for six years. The bottom line is that this bill would ability of many veterans and their family mental restructuring of the traditional Med- cause millions to lose their health coverage. members to afford health insurance in the icaid program would also likely lead to sig- Most of those with pre-existing conditions private market. The underlying AHCA bill: nificant coverage losses or restriction of would return to the days when even inad- Continues to exclude CHAMPVA bene- services to beneficiaries, including pregnant equate coverage was unaffordable. The bill ficiaries—dependents of the most catastroph- women. These changes do a serious dis- would drive up costs for those who are older ically disabled veterans—from the depend- service to low-income women and families by and lower-income, shift costs to states, fail ents’ coverage policy up to age 26. denying them access to the care they need to Fails to remove the prohibition on enroll- lead healthy lives and, ultimately, have to protect employer-sponsored coverage, ment into the VA health care system for Pri- healthy pregnancies and give birth to weaken public health and undermine the sol- ority Group 8 veterans, thus denying these healthy infants. vency of the Medicare trust fund—all the while providing tax cuts for the wealthy and veterans access to the principal health care The MacArthur amendment and other pro- well-connected. system for veterans. posed changes to the AHCA do not address The priorities demonstrated by this bill Denies access to tax credits making health these issues. Women, infants, families, and are upside down. We urge you to oppose this insurance affordable to anyone eligible for a communities will bear the longterm cost if bill. host of other federal health programs, in- health care for women of childbearing age Sincerely, cluding those ‘‘eligible’’ for coverage under and pregnant women is shortchanged and SCOTT FREY, Title 38 health care programs. This would more babies are born sick as a result. The Director of Federal Government Affairs. prevent many veterans who may be ‘‘eligible March of Dimes urges all Representatives to for’’ but not enrolled in the VA health care oppose the American Health Care Act. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- system from accessing these tax credits in- Sincerely, clude in the RECORD a letter from the tended to help people buy insurance. STACEY D. STEWART, National Farmers Union in strong op- Not only do the changes made to the origi- President. position to this bill. nal version of the AHCA continue its failure Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- NATIONAL FARMERS UNION, to protect veterans and people with disabil- clude in the RECORD a letter from May 3, 2017. ities, they make these circumstances worse. DEAR MEMBER OF CONGRESS: I write on be- The latest changes would allow states to AFSCME in strong opposition to this bill. half of nearly 200,000 members of the Na- seek waivers that would allow insurers to tional Farmers Union (NFU) who are en- charge higher premiums to people with pre- AFSCME, gaged in all forms of farming and ranching. existing conditions, including people with May 3, 2017. NFU has already spoken in opposition of the disabilities. The new amendments also would U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, American Health Care Act (AHCA) because allow states to seek waivers from the ACA’s Washington, DC. of the estimated 24 million Americans who requirement that certain essential health DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 1.6 would lose coverage as a result. The most re- benefits must be provided, including crucial million working and retiree members of the cent amendment to the AHCA only moves services for people with disabilities such as American Federation of State, County and further away from NFU’s member-driven pol- prescription drugs, rehabilitative and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), I am writ- icy of affirming ‘‘the right of all Americans habilitative services and devices, preventa- ing to express our continuing opposition to to have access to affordable, quality health tive and wellness services and chronic dis- the American Health Care Act (AHCA), not- care.’’ ease management. The combination of these withstanding the addition of the Upton Farming is a dangerous occupation, rank- changes would make it nearly impossible for amendment. ing 6th in occupational fatality rates. The people with pre-existing conditions to find The harm that AHCA will impose on ordi- injury rate for agricultural workers is also affordable plans that cover basic health care nary Americans is breathtaking in scope. As 40% higher than the rate of all workers. Fi- services. the Congressional Budget Office has detailed, nally, the average age of farmers in the Throughout these past few months, the 24 million will lose their health care cov- United States is over 58 years. U.S. health American people have been calling for a bi- erage. The Medicaid program will be cut by care policy must take into account the partisan effort to improve the nation’s $839 billion and restructured, ending the unique needs of the men and women who pro- health care system. Congress should heed guarantee that the federal government will vide food and fiber for our country and much these voices, stop its pursuit of the flawed fund a specified share of state Medicaid of the world. American Health Care Act and work to- costs. The bill makes coverage more expen- Our current health care system is not gether through regular order to strengthen sive, especially for lower-income families without its problems, but progress has been

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.015 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 made since the passage of the Affordable across America can no longer be guar- elderly, and the children who constitute Care Act (ACA). The current structure of tax anteed health insurance if we turn this more than half the current Medicaid enroll- credits and premium subsidies help farmers option over to the States. Anybody ment. Votes on this issue may be included in maintain consistent coverage, especially who comes from local or State govern- NEA’s Report Card for the 15th Congress. during downturns in the farm economy. The The April 25 amendment made the original expansion of Medicaid has proven beneficial ment knows this: that money will be bill even worse. It allows states to jettison to rural communities, where the rate of en- used to balance the budgets in eco- existing essential health benefit require- rollment is higher than in urban America. nomic downturns at the expense of ments, thereby permitting health plans cov- The Health Insurance Marketplace, while those who need it for health care. ering millions of people once again to ex- certainly in need of stabilizing measures, Another essential point here as I clude coverage for maternity and newborn makes coverage more accessible for many think we go forward, the other side—by care, pediatric dental and vision services, farm families. mental health and substance use services, the way, there are only two on the and other crucial benefits. The May 3 amend- The correlation between a strong Medicaid other side. What is amazing about this program and the success of rural hospitals ment is the equivalent of a tiny bandage on has become evident during the influx of rural is—when you consider that argument a gaping wound. The cost of setting up sepa- hospital closures over the last six years. Sev- that they had with us yesterday about rate pools or premium assistance programs enty-eight rural hospitals have closed since national defense, understand this: real for people with pre-existing conditions far 2010 with over 80% of those located in states national defense also includes pro- exceeds the $8 billion spread over five years that opted out of the Medicaid expansion. viding health care for members of the the amendment provides—nationwide, at With another 673 hospitals at risk of closure, least $25 billion per year would be required, American family. That is a very impor- according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. the AHCA’s proposed Medicaid cap could tant consideration. They are about to have devastating consequences for rural Both the original and amended American subtract from guaranteed benefits to Health Care Act threaten to return this communities. country to the days when annual and life- In 2012, 75 percent of farms sold less than the American family for the purpose of time dollar-based limits on the use of essen- $50,000 in agricultural products and 57% had offering a tax cut to people at the very tial health benefits shifted tremendous fi- sales less than $10,000. Young farm families top, again, at the expense of middle nancial and health risks to working families. that don’t receive additional income or class Americans. Insurance companies could charge people health benefits from off-farm jobs would find Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield with pre-existing conditions many times it extremely difficult to purchase health in- 1 minute to the gentleman from New more than they charge healthy people—just surance. The proposed legislation would also York (Mr. CROWLEY), the chairman of as they did before the Affordable Care Act. hurt older farmers. Easing restrictions on the Democratic Caucus. Millions of Americans with pre-existing con- what insurance companies can charge older ditions would be at risk of losing health cov- customers will leave older farmers facing in- Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, here we erage or face premiums so high only the very creased premiums of thousands of dollars, go again. The majority thinks they wealthy could afford them—the same people despite the larger subsidies some would re- have finally found the right combina- who benefit from the massive tax cuts in the ceive. tion of political giveaways to pass original bill. The modified AHCA bill also has a signifi- their bill, a bill that we have to re- Specifically, we are concerned that this cant negative impact on those with pre-ex- member still kicks 24 million Ameri- legislation will: Lead to drastic cuts in Med- isting conditions. It’s estimated that 40 per- cans off their healthcare coverage. It icaid benefits and eligible beneficiaries. The cent of 50- to 64-year-olds would be denied still charges seniors more. It still takes American Health Care Act radically restruc- coverage in the individual market without tures how Medicaid is funded. Instead of the the Affordable Care Act’s protections for away some of the most basic protec- federal government paying a percentage of those with preexisting conditions. The waiv- tions of your health plan that it should actual Medicaid spending, each state will get er option would mean that a large number of cover. Despite what you hear, this lat- a set amount. States will choose between a farmers in many states would be forced into est Band-Aid amendment is not going block grant, a lump sum payment, and a high-risk pools. This legislation is woefully to change any of that. ‘‘per capita cap,’’ a flat amount for certain short in funding for those high-risk pools, That is just what we know so far. Medicaid beneficiaries. Either way, state leaving individuals with preexisting condi- Since this bill was built by backroom budgets will take a big hit: the share of rev- tions to contend with increased premiums, deals and haphazard guesses, we don’t enue spent on Medicaid will rise from 24.5 higher deductibles and longer waiting peri- percent in 2017 to 28 percent by 2025, accord- ods for coverage. even know how much this bill will cost ing to Moody’s Investors Service. To com- Affordable access to quality health cov- America—not just dollars added to the pensate for the loss of federal support, states erage is a high priority for all Americans. As deficit, but the human cost of how are likely to divert money from education to you consider how to best improve our health much more damaging this bill will be. health care as well as limit the number of care system, we ask that you give serious It is the height of irresponsible gov- Medicaid beneficiaries, the scope of Medicaid consideration to the needs of farmers and erning, not just rushing something benefits, or both. ranchers. While there is certainly room for through without full and fair consider- Hit the students most in need the hardest. improvement in current policy, the Amer- ation. Frankly, we are getting used to Under the Individuals with Disabilities Edu- ican Health Care Act will only hurt family that on our side of the aisle. But to cation Act (IDEA), Medicaid reimburses farmers and rural communities across the schools for mental health care, vision and country. NFU requests that you oppose the force through a bill that you know is going to hurt 24 million Americans is hearing screenings, diabetes and asthma proposed legislation. management, wheelchairs and hearing aids, We appreciate your efforts to provide all more than irresponsible; it is just plain and more. Federal support is substantial—for Americans with high-quality comprehensive wrong. example, in 2015 California schools received health insurance. Thank you for your consid- 1000 about $90 million from Medicaid, Florida eration. b schools about $63 million, New York schools Sincerely, Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- about $137 million, Pennsylvania schools ROGER JOHNSON, er, I reserve the balance of my time. about $131 million, and Texas schools about President. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- $250 million (Source: Centers for Medicare Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield clude in the RECORD a letter from the and Medicaid, compilation of 2017 data). Cap- 1 minute to the distinguished gen- National Education Association in ping federal support for Medicaid will shift costs to the states, jeopardizing services es- tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. strong opposition to this bill. NEAL), the distinguished ranking mem- sential for students to learn and thrive, espe- MAY 3, 2017. cially those with disabilities. ber of the Committee on Ways and Hon. JAMES P. MCGOVERN, Increase the cost of health care for those Means. House of Representatives, House Office Build- least able to afford it. The American Health Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, this proce- ing, Washington, DC. Care Act provides largely age-based tax cred- dure that we are witnessing here this DEAR CONGRESSMAN MCGOVERN: On behalf its ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 per year—far morning, based on what happened at of our three million members and the 50 mil- less than today’s subsidies. For example, ac- the White House for the last 48 hours, lion students they serve, we strongly urge cording to Kaiser Family Foundation cal- has all the charm of a ransom note. you to oppose H.R. 1628, the American Health culations, a 60-year-old earning $20,000 a year The idea that this is put in front of Care Act as amended. The Congressional in Lincoln, Nebraska, now gets $18,470 to Budget Office (CBO) found that by 2026, the help buy insurance and additional subsidies us so that they can provide a tax cut at original bill would provide $883 billion in tax to help with deductibles and co-payments. the expense of middle class Americans cuts while taking health coverage away from Under the American Health Care Act, she is really what we are voting on today. 24 million people, including some of the most would get a $4,000 tax credit for the premium So that child who is born with diabetes vulnerable among us—the poor, the sick, the and nothing for other out-of-pocket health

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.023 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4127 care costs. By 2026, the average subsidy vance legislation that promotes women’s est possible terms to get it right, not fast. under the American Health Care Act would health, healthcare and coverage. The AHCA and the MacArthur Amendment be half the average subsidy under the Afford- In our letter of March 22, 2017, we expressed turn the clock back on women’s health and able Care Act, according to CBO. opposition to the AHCA because it threat- should not move forward. Tax ‘‘high cost’’ employer-sponsored ened women’s access to care protected by Es- We stand ready to continue assisting Con- health coverage. We recognize that the sential Health Benefits (EHBs) requirements, gress in advancing health policy that sup- American Health Care Act postpones the ef- eliminated the Medicaid expansion, cut ports women’s access to high quality fective date of the 40 percent excise tax on qualified providers at Planned Parenthood healthcare and coverage, and is effective at such plans until 2026. But this tax—a back- from the Medicaid program, and made severe controlling and reducing the costs that peo- door pay cut for millions of working fami- reductions to Medicaid and other programs ple pay for their healthcare. lies—needs to be fully repealed. critical to women and newborns. We said Sincerely, Enhance tax breaks for the rich. The that important health initiatives for women American Academy of Pediatrics, Amer- American Health Care Act nearly doubles and newborns should be built upon and im- ican College of Nurse-Midwives, American the amount of money that can be socked proved—not rolled back. College of Physicians, American Congress of away in tax-free health savings accounts—at However, the MacArthur Amendment to Obstetricians and Gynecologists, National least $6,550 for individuals and at least $13,100 AHCA places women’s health and coverage Association of Nurse Practitioners in Wom- for families in 2018. It also repeals a 3.8 per- at even greater risk. The MacArthur Amend- en’s Health, National Partnership for Women cent investment tax and 0.9 percent sur- ment would enable states to waive EHBs in- & Families, Planned Parenthood Federation charge on wages above $250,000—a savings of cluding those for maternity and newborn of America. about $195,000 per year for the top 0.1 percent care, preventive services, and services for mental health and substance use disorders; Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield of earners, according to the independent Tax 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Policy Center. to waive community rating rules; and to Weaken the individual insurance market shunt patients with costly healthcare condi- Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE). and employment-based coverage. The Amer- tions or illnesses into unproven government Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I ican Health Care Act eliminates penalties high risk pools. Supporters of the bill claim want you to look and keep your eyes for individuals not buying—and large em- this bill maintains protections for those with on who will feel the TrumpCare’s ployers not providing—health coverage. But preexisting conditions, but allowing states mother of all bombs of health care premiums go up 30 percent if coverage lapses to waive coverage of EHB and charge people dropped on the American people. God more based on their health status renders for more than 63 days—for example, when have mercy on your soul. someone loses her job and cannot afford to the promise of coverage for preexisting con- ditions to be meaningless. If all that the Sec- I am a person living with a pre- buy health insurance until she gets another existing disease. I am a breast cancer one. Overall, CBO predicts substantial in- retary may require of a state waiver applica- creases in out-of-pocket costs for low- and tion is an un-validated attestation that the survivor. This heartless and callous moderate-income people due to the decline purpose of their requested waiver is to re- bill, with 24 million-plus people being in subsidies and increase in deductibles and duce premium costs, increase the number of thrown off of health care and the re- other cost-sharing. Some employers may gut persons with healthcare coverage, or advance verse Robin Hood of stealing from the their health plans or stop offering coverage another benefit to the public interest in the poor and the seniors laying in their state, including the guarantee of coverage altogether, since they will no longer be pe- beds, and you are doing an age tax that nalized for doing so. for persons with pre-existing medical condi- tions, it is meaningless in protecting health, is five times more than any other The American Health Care Act plays Robin young person has to pay, is disgraceful, Hood in reverse. It reneges on the promise to quality healthcare and coverage. Women and deliver better, cheaper health coverage for families must not be made to suffer, lose ac- as well as the pittance that you have all Americans, giving the richest among us cess to care and coverage, and pay higher given for preexisting conditions, which massive tax cuts while causing the number healthcare costs. is $8 billion. They say you need $25 bil- of people without insurance to rise from 28 EHB is a critical protection that ensures lion. million today to an estimated 52 million in women have guaranteed access to a robust Then you are telling the States to set of health care services. Making certain 2026, according to CBO. get a waiver. They are going to cele- We strongly urge you to oppose the amend- categories of coverage optional—such as ma- ternity care—would not substantially lower brate. And then you are saying to ed American Health Care Act—deeply flawed Trump, the king, that we have the legislation that is even worse than the origi- the premiums that people pay for health cov- nal bill. erage. For example, the requirement for ma- votes to drop that mother of all bombs Sincerely, ternity care as an EHB is not a source of of health care. MARC EGAN, health cost growth. Rather, by sharing risk Let me just simply say: I want to Director of Government Relations, across a broad population of beneficiaries it stand with the people. I want her to National Education Association. provides vital protection for women and fam- live in dignity and to be able to get ilies from the risk of tens of thousands of Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- dollars of out-of-pocket costs associated well. I want to make sure that Med- clude a letter from the American Acad- with normal physiologic labor and delivery, icaid is provided for working families. I emy of Pediatrics, American College of cesarean section, and birth complications. In don’t want the poor to sleep under Nurse-Midwives, American College of exchange for monthly premium costs of just bridges, to beg in the streets, to steal Physicians, American Congress of Ob- $8–14 according to one recent analysis, the bread from the market because they stetricians and Gynecologists, National maternity care EHB provides significant se- can’t get any health insurance. Association of Nurse Practitioners in curity for people wishing to grow their fami- God have mercy on your soul. lies in the U.S. Furthermore, since everyone Women’s Health, National Partnership Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Budget is at some point a newborn, childbirth af- Committee and the representative of a con- for Women & Families, and Planned fects all of us. Enabling exclusion of mater- Parenthood Federation of America. nity care from health coverage denies people gressional district that has benefitted enor- MAY 1, 2017. access to the care that everyone deserves for mously from the Affordable Care Act, I rise in Hon. PAUL RYAN, the best start in life. strong and unyielding opposition to H.R. 1628, Speaker, House of Representatives, Congress should move to protect and ad- the so-called ‘‘American Health Care Act,’’ Washington, DC. vance health, quality care and coverage, par- which more accurately should be called Hon. NANCY PELOSI, ticularly for women and newborns, and not ‘‘Trumpcare, the Pay More for Less Act.’’ Minority Leader, House of Representatives, to endanger them as the AHCA and the Mac- I oppose this third and latest reincarnation Washington, DC. Arthur Amendment would do. Americans of DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: both parties agree. A recent Kaiser Family of Trumpcare for several compelling reasons: On behalf of physicians, certified nurse-mid- Foundation poll found ‘‘relatively few Amer- 1. Trumpcare forces families to pay higher wives/certified midwives, and nurse practi- icans want to see the president and Congress premiums and deductibles, increasing out-of- tioners who provide care for the women of decrease funding for a variety of different pocket costs. America, along with our patient partners, we health priorities—including spending for re- 2. Trumpcare will take away health care stand together for women and families and productive health services for lower-income from 24 million hardworking Americans. against House passage of the MacArthur (R- women (21 percent).’’ 3. Trumpcare would gut Essential Health NJ) Amendment to the American Health When women have access to quality, evi- Benefits and protections for Americans with Care Act (AHCA, H.R. 1628). Rather than sup- dence-based, affordable care throughout port recent gains in women’s access to their lives, they enrich our workforce, pre-existing conditions. healthcare and coverage, the MacArthur achieve higher levels of education, reach 4. Trumpcare forces Americans aged 50–64 Amendment and AHCA turn back the clock their goals, and actively contribute to the to pay premiums five times higher than what and reverse hard-won progress. We stand success of their families and their commu- others pay for health coverage, no matter how ready to continue work with Congress to ad- nities. We urge the U.S. House in the strong- healthy they are.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.051 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 5. Trumpcare shortens the life of the Medi- ing to do by rushing to vote on a Trumpcare The cuts get deeper with each passing year, care Trust Fund and ransacks funds that sen- bill before it can be scored by highly respected reaching 25% of Medicaid spending in 2026. iors depend on to get the long-term care they and nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. These steep cuts will force states to drop need. What we do know for sure is that this people from Medicaid entirely or ration care Mr. Speaker, 85 months ago, on March 23, Trumpcare bill is a massive $900 billion tax for those who most need access to com- 2010, redeemed a promise that had been cut for the wealthy, paid for on the backs of prehensive coverage. unfulfilled for nearly a 100 years, when he America’s seniors, the vulnerable, the poor, The Pay-More-For-Less plan undermines signed into law the landmark Affordable Care and working class households. the health care safety net for vulnerable popu- Act passed by the Democratic controlled 111th Trump gave the game away on March 20, lations. Congress. 2017 in one of his trademark pep rallies: Currently, Medicaid provides coverage to Seven years later, the verdict is in on the ‘‘We want a very big tax cut, but cannot do more than 70 million Americans, including chil- Affordable Care Act: the American people that until we keep our promise to repeal and dren, pregnant women, seniors in Medicare, have judged it a success. replace the disaster known as Obamacare.’’ people who are too disabled to work, and par- This ‘‘Robin Hood in reverse’’ bill is unprec- As reflected in the most recent public opin- ents struggling to get by on poverty-level edented and breathtaking in its audacity—no ion polls, 61% of Americans approve of wages. bill ever tried to give so much to the rich while ObamaCare and oppose efforts to repeal it, In addition to doctor and hospital visits, taking so much from the poor and working the highest approval rates on record to date Medicaid covers long-term services like nurs- class. and continuing an inexorable upward trend ing homes and home and community-based When they were forced to pull Trumpcare services that allow people with chronic health over the past several years. 1.0 from the floor because they lacked the conditions and disabilities to live independ- Mr. Speaker, the reason Americans are votes to pass, House Republican leaders re- adamantly opposed to Republican repeal ef- ently. sponded by adding an amendment To date, 31 states and D.C. have expanded forts, including the third iteration of Trumpcare (Trumpcare 2.0) that made the original bill Medicaid eligibility to low-income adults, now before us is that Obamacare is no longer even worse. a bogey cooked up in Republican talking Trumpcare 2.0 would allow states to jettison which, when combined with the ACA’s other points but a life-saving and life affirming meas- existing essential health benefit requirements, coverage provisions, has helped to reduce the ure that they experienced in their own lives. thereby permitting health plans covering mil- nation’s uninsured rate to the lowest in history. Americans think it is beyond crazy to repeal lions of people once again to exclude cov- Trumpcare throws 24 million Americans off a law that has brought to more than 20 million erage for maternity and newborn care, pedi- their health insurance by 2026 according to Americans the peace of mind and security that atric dental and vision services, mental health the Congressional Budget Office. Low-income people will be hit especially comes with knowing they have access to af- and substance use services, and other crucial hard because 14 million people will lose ac- fordable, high quality health care. benefits. Before the passage of the Affordable Care All this accomplished was a hemorrhaging cess to Medicaid by 2026 according to CBO. Act, 17.1% of Americans lacked health insur- of support from the moderate wing of the Re- Trumpcare massively shifts who gets in- ance; today nearly nine of ten (89.1%) are in- publican Conference who feared the repercus- sured in the nongroup market. According to CBO, ‘‘fewer lower-income sured, which is the highest rate since Gallup sions of leaving millions of Americans with people would obtain coverage through the began tracking insurance coverage in 2008. preexisting conditions without health insurance nongroup market under the legislation than Because of the Affordable Healthcare Act: so the Trump Republicans invented 1. insurance companies are banned from Trumpcare 3.0 to provide $8 billion over five current law,’’ and, ‘‘a larger share of enrollees discriminating against anyone, including 17 years to offset the cost of setting up separate in the nongroup market would be younger million children, with a preexisting condition, or pools or premium assistance programs for people and a smaller share would be older charging higher rates based on gender or people with pre-existing conditions. people.’’ The projected 10% reduction in premiums is health status; This pittance is not designed or intended to not the result of better care or efficiency—it is 2. 6.6 million young-adults up to age 26 can help real people with preexisting conditions, in large part the result of higher-cost and older stay on their parents’ health insurance plans; but to provide cover for House Republicans to people being pushed out of a market that is 3. 100 million Americans no longer have an- walk the plank. also selling plans that provide less financial nual or life-time limits on healthcare coverage; According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 4. 6.3 million seniors in the ‘‘donut hole’’ at least $25 billion per year would be required, protection. People with low incomes suffer the greatest have saved $6.1 billion on their prescription not $8 billion spread out over five years as provided for in Trumpcare 3.0. losses in coverage. drugs; CBO projects the uninsured rate for people 5. 3.2 million seniors now get free annual Trumpcare represents the largest transfer of wealth from the bottom 99% to the top 1% in in their 30s and 40s with incomes below 200% wellness visits under Medicare, and of poverty will reach 38% in 2026 under this 6. 360,000 Small Businesses are using the American history. bill, nearly twice the rate projected under cur- Health Care Tax Credit to help them provide This callous Republican scheme gives gi- gantic tax cuts to the rich, and pays for it by rent law. health insurance to their workers; Among people aged 50–64, CBO projects 7. Pregnancy is no longer a pre-existing taking insurance away from 24 million people, leaving 52 million uninsured, and raising costs 30% of those with incomes below 200% of condition and women can no longer be poverty will be uninsured in 2026. charged a higher rate just because they are for the poor and middle class. In addition, Republicans are giving the phar- Under current law, CBO projects the unin- women. maceutical industry a big tax repeal, worth sured rate would only be 12 percent. We are becoming a nation of equals when nearly $25 billion over a decade without de- Being uninsured is not about ‘‘freedom.’’ it comes to access to affordable healthcare in- manding in return any reduction in the cost of Speaker RYAN has argued that people will surance. prescription and brand-name drugs. happily forgo insurance coverage because this With all of this progress, and the prospect To paraphrase Winston Churchill, of this bill, bill gives them that ‘‘freedom.’’ for more through further refinements, who in it can truly be said that ‘‘never has so much The argument makes as much sense as the their right mind would want to go back to how been taken from so many to benefit so few.’’ foolish claim that slaves came to America as it used to be? The Pay-More-For-Less plan destroys the ‘‘immigrants’’ seeking a better life. The answer seems to be only the President Medicaid program under the cover of repeal- The freedom to be uninsured is no freedom and House Republicans who call the Afford- ing the Affordable Care Act Medicaid expan- at all to people in their 50s and 60s with mod- able Care Act and its enviable record of suc- sion. est incomes who simply cannot afford to pay cess a ‘‘disaster.’’ CBO estimates 14 million Americans will thousands of dollars toward premiums. Americans know a disaster when they see lose Medicaid coverage by 2026 under the They do not really have a choice. one and they see one in the making: it is Republican plan. The claim of our Republican friends that called ‘‘Trumpcare,’’ masquerading as the In addition to terminating the ACA Medicaid Trumpcare provides more freedom to all ‘‘American Health Care Act,’’ which will force expansion, the bill converts Medicaid to a per- Americans calls to mind the words of Anatole Americans to pay more, get less, decimate the capita cap that is not guaranteed to keep pace France: Medicare and Medicaid programs, and give a with health costs starting in 2020. ‘‘The law, in its majestic equality, forbids the massive tax cut for top 1 percent. The combined effect of these policies is to rich as well as the poor to sleep under Americans are right to be alarmed and an- slash $880 billion in federal Medicaid funding bridges, to beg in the streets, and to steal gered by what the Trump Republicans are try- over the next decade. bread from the market.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.024 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4129 Trumpcare raises costs for Americans near- munities that desperately need them by slash- She had it removed, but three years later ing retirement, essentially imposing an ‘‘Age ing Medicaid funding. she discovered a lump in her abdomen. Tax.’’ Trumpcare Republican plan leaves rural She was then unemployed and uninsured, The bill allows insurance companies to Americans worse off. and so she put off going to a doctor. charge older enrollees higher premiums than Mr. Speaker, health insurance has histori- She tried to buy health insurance. Every allowed under current law, while reducing the cally been more expensive in rural areas be- company rejected her. size of premium tax credits provided. cause services cost more and it is hard to Ashley eventually became eligible for Cali- Again, these changes hit low-income older have a stable individual market with a small fornia’s Medicaid program, which had been persons the hardest. population. expanded under the Affordable Care Act. A 64-year-old with an income of $26,500 Under the Affordable Care Act, premium The 32-year-old Oakland resident credits buying coverage in the individual market will subsidies are tied to local costs, which helps her survival to the ACA. pay $12,900 more toward their premiums in keeps premium costs down. Without it, ‘‘I would likely be dead, and my 2026, on average. But they are not under the Republican plan. family would likely be bankrupt from trying to Trumpcare raises costs for individuals and So, under the Republican plan residents in save me.’’ families with modest incomes, particularly rural areas, who tend to be older and poorer, Before any of our Republican colleagues older Americans. will pay much more and get much less health supporting this bill cast their vote, I urge them A recent analysis found that in 2020, individ- insurance. to reflect on the testimony of Joan, Brian, and uals with incomes of about $31,000 would pay What the Affordable Care Act, and its repeal Ashley, and on this question posed by a con- on average $4,000 more out of pocket for means in the lives of real people: stituent to Sen. COTTON of Arkansas at a re- health care—which is like getting a 13% pay At the end of the day, Mr. Speaker, the cent town hall: cut. powerful and compelling reasons to reject ‘‘I’ve got a husband dying and we can’t af- And the older you are, the worse it gets. Trumpcare lie in the real world experiences of ford—let me tell you something. An analysis by the Urban Institute estimates the American people. ‘‘If you can get us better coverage than this that for Americans in their 50s and 60s, the Let me briefly share with you the positive, [Obamacare], go for it. tax credits alone would only be sufficient to life affirming difference made by the Affordable ‘‘Let me tell you what we have, plus a lot of buy plans with major holes in them, such as Care Act in the lives of just three of the mil- benefits that we need. $30,000 deductible for family coverage and no lions of Americans it has helped. ‘‘We have $29 per month for my husband. Joan Fanwick: ‘‘If Obamacare is repealed, I coverage at all of brand-name drugs or many Can you beat that? Can you? don’t know if I’ll live to see the next President’’ With all the congestive heart failures, and therapy services. ‘‘After nearly a decade of mysterious health Another reason I oppose the Trumpcare bill open heart surgeries, we’re trying. $29 per scares, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune before us is because its draconian cuts in month. And he’s a hard worker. disorder called Sjogren’s syndrome last year, $39 for me.’’ Medicaid funding and phase-out of Medicaid when I was a junior at Temple University. Like a horror film of yore with monsters and expansion put community health centers at ‘‘It’s a chronic illness with no known cause vampires, both the original Trumpcare and its risk. or cure, and without close medical surveillance sequels threaten to return this country to the Community health centers are consumer- and care, it can lead to life-threatening com- days when annual and lifetime dollar-based driven and patient-centered organizations that plications (like the blood infection I frequently limits on the use of essential health benefits serve as a comprehensive and cost effective experience). shifted tremendous financial and health risks primary health care option for America’s most ‘‘For me, having this disorder means waking to working families. underserved communities. up every morning and taking 10 different Insurance companies could charge people Community health centers serve as the medications. with pre-existing conditions many times more health care home for more than 25 million pa- ‘‘It also means a nurse visiting my apart- than they charge healthy people—just as they tients in nearly 10,000 communities across the ment every Saturday to insert a needle into did before the Affordable Care Act. country. the port in my chest, so I can give myself IV Millions of Americans with pre-existing con- Across the country, 550 new clinics have fluids throughout the week. ditions would be at risk of losing health cov- opened to receive 5 million new patients since ‘‘Without insurance, my medical expenses erage or face premiums so high only the very 2009. would cost me about $1,000 per week—more wealthy could afford them—the same people Community health centers serve everyone than $50,000 per year. And that doesn’t even who benefit from the massive tax cuts in the regardless of ability to pay or insurance status: include hospitalizations. original bill. 1. 71% of health center patients have in- ‘‘My medical bills aren’t cheap under I urge all Members to reject Trumpcare, one comes at or below 100% of poverty and 92% Obamacare, but I can afford them. of the most monstrously cruel and morally have incomes less than 200% of poverty; ‘‘Under Obamacare, insurance companies bankrupt legislative proposals ever to be con- 2. 49% of health center patients are on aren’t allowed to cut you off when your costs sidered in this chamber. Medicaid; and climb so right now, the most I personally have To paraphrase a famous former reality tele- 3. 24% are uninsured; to pay out of pocket is $1,000 per year.’’ vision personality, ‘‘believe me, Trumpcare is 4. Community health centers annually serve Brain Norgaard: ‘‘I am a small business a disaster.’’ on average 1.2 million homeless patients and owner and leadership trainer who Obamacare We should reject it and keep instead ‘‘some- more than 300,000 veterans. has helped tremendously.’’ thing terrific’’: and that is the Affordable Care Community health centers reduce health Brian Norgaard, a Dallas, Texas resident Act, regarded lovingly by millions of Americans care costs and produce savings—on average, called my office to express his opposition to as ‘‘Obamacare.’’ health centers save 24% per Medicaid patient Trumpcare and to offer share how the Afford- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- when compared to other providers. able Care Act has helped small business own- er, I yield myself such time as I may Community health centers integrate critical ers like himself: consume. medical and social services such as oral ‘‘I am a small business owner and leader- Mr. Speaker, if I had to defend health, mental health, substance abuse, case ship trainer who Obamacare has helped tre- ObamaCare, I would go into hysterics, management, and translation, under one roof. mendously. too. Community health centers employ nearly ‘‘My wife and I both own small businesses Since ObamaCare went into effect, the in- 100,000, people and generate over $45 billion in the Dallas, Texas area and as a result of surance choices and coverage have gotten in total economic activity in some of the na- the huge savings we received after paying lower and the costs have gotten higher. Vir- tion’s most distressed communities. lower [healthcare] premiums under tually no doctors take the marketplace in- Mr. Speaker, community health centers are Obamacare, we were able to reinvest those surance so I’m left to change doctors who on the front lines of every major health crisis saving into both of our businesses and the I’ve seen for over 30 years and switch to our country faces; from providing access to community. ‘‘new’’ doctors who I don’t trust, and who care (and employment) to veterans to ad- cannot provide the same healthcare benefits ‘‘And the healthcare we received was qual- I’ve received in the past. I have a brain dressing the opioid epidemic to responding to ity, at that.’’ tumor that I have monitored by a very public health threats like the Zika virus. Ashley Walton: ‘‘For cancer survivors, we lit- skilled neuro-oncologist. Not anymore. The We should be providing more support and erally live and die by insurance’’ three choices I was given via healthcare.gov funding to community health centers; not mak- Ashley Walton was 25 when a mole on her aren’t even honored forms of insurance for ing it more difficult for them to serve the com- back turned out to be melanoma. this doctor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.025 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4130 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Yes, it left them out again. concerned that the bill still falls woefully Critical Access Hospitals, Rural Prospective Mr. Speaker, I yield 21⁄2 minutes to short in making health care affordable and Payment Hospitals, Rural Health Clinics, In- the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. accessible to rural Americans. For example, dian Health. Service providers, and indi- the modified bill contains a decrease in the vidual rural providers. MESSER). 2. Market Reform—Forty-one percent of Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, despite Medical Expense Deduction threshold from 10% to 5.8% in an attempt to assist Ameri- rural marketplace enrollees have only a sin- the rhetoric on the other side of the cans between the ages of 50 and 64 who would gle option of insurer, representing 70 percent aisle, today is an exciting day for those see their premiums skyrocket under the cur- of counties that have only one option. This of us who have been working and fight- rent plan. However, this deduction is not a lack of competition in the marketplace ing to end ObamaCare’s reign over this credit and therefore would be of little use to means higher premiums. Rural residents av- country. low income seniors that are in very low tax erage per month cost exceeds urban ($569.34 It is race month in Indiana, and I brackets or do not pay income tax at all. Ad- for small town rural vs. $415.85 for metropoli- ditionally, the new amendments to freeze tan). want to remind my colleagues that, as Rural Americans are more likely to have exciting as today is, today’s vote is a Medicaid expansion enrollment as of Jan. 1, 2018, and reduce the Medicaid per-capita obesity, diabetes, cancer, and traumatic in- green flag, not a checkered flag. It is growth rate will disproportionately harm jury; they are more likely to participate in the beginning of the race, not the end. rural Americans. high risk health behaviors including smok- Today, the House will vote to move The AHCA will hurt vulnerable popu- ing, poor diet, physical inactivity, and sub- legislation forward that will repeal lations in rural Americans, leaving millions stance abuse. Rural Americans are more ObamaCare and replace it with some- of the sickest, most underserved populations likely to be uninsured or underinsured and thing far better. The bill will surely in our nation without coverage, and further less likely to receive employer sponsored health insurance. Rural communities have undergo more changes as we continue escalating the rural hospital closure crisis. According to the Wall Street Journal, the fewer health care providers for insurers to this process in the Senate, but it is on ‘‘GOP health plan would hit rural areas hard contract with to provide an adequate net- its way to the finish line. . . . Poor, older Americans would see the work to serve the community. There are some really strong policies largest increase in insurance-coverage Any federal health care reform proposal in this bill. It cut taxes by a trillion costs.’’ The LA Times reports ‘‘Americans must address the fact that insurance pro- dollars on the American people, and who swept President Trump to victory— viders are withdrawing from rural markets. government spending by hundreds of lower-income, older voters in conservative, Despite record profit levels, insurance com- billions, too. Despite the rhetoric, it rural parts of the country—stand to lose the panies are permitted to cherry pick profit- most in federal healthcare aid under a Re- able markets for participation and are cur- keeps preexisting condition prohibi- rently not obliged to provide service to mar- tions. No one with a preexisting condi- publican plan to repeal and replace the Af- fordable Care Act.’’ Let’s be clear—many kets with less advantageous risk pools. De- tion will be denied coverage because of provisions in the ACA failed rural America. mographic realities of the rural population the policies in this bill. Insurance com- The lack of plan competition in rural mar- make the market less profitable, and thus panies cannot raise premiums on indi- kets, exorbitant premiums, deductibles and less desirable for an insurance company with viduals with preexisting conditions as co-pays, the co-op collapses, lack of Medicaid no incentive to take on such exposure. In the long as they maintain coverage. expansion, and devastating Medicare cuts to same way that financial service institutions are required to provide services to under- The bill will also make sure 26-year- rural providers—all collided to create a health care crisis in rural America. However, served neighborhoods, profitable insurance olds continue to stay on their parents’ companies should be required to provide healthcare plans as they enter the it’s beyond frustrating that an opportunity to fix these problems is squandered, and in- services in underserved communities. 3. Stop Bad Debt Cuts to Rural Hospitals— workforce. Most importantly, though, stead, a greater health care crisis will be cre- Rural hospitals serve more Medicare pa- the bill unshackles American families ated in rural America. tients (46% rural vs. 40.9% urban), thus from the mandates, taxes, and pen- Congress has long recognized the impor- across-the-board Medicare cuts do not have alties that are costing these families tance of the rural health care safety net and across the board impacts. A goal of the ACA has steadfastly worked to protect it. And thousands of dollars each year. was to have hospital bad debt decrease sig- now, much of the protections created to Though ObamaCare helped some, we nificantly. However, because of unaffordable maintain access to care for the 62 million have to remember that ObamaCare health plans in rural areas, rural patients who live in rural America are in jeopardy. made things worse for millions of still cannot afford health care. Bad debt We implore Congress to continue its fight to among rural hospitals has actually increased America, and that is where the na- protect rural patients’ access to care. Three 50% since the ACA was passed. According to tional anger has come from. I have improvements are critical for rural patients heard from countless Hoosiers who tell MedPAC ‘‘Average Medicare margins are and providers: negative, and under current law they are ex- me the stories of their premiums going 1. Medicaid—Though most rural residents pected to decline in 2016’’ has led to 7% gains are in non-expansion states, a higher propor- from $500 a month to $1,500 a month, in median profit margins for urban providers tion of rural residents are covered by Med- with deductibles that are through the while rural providers have experienced a me- roof, at $10,000-plus a month. They have icaid (21% vs. 16%). Congress and the states have long recog- dian loss of 6%. If Congress does not act, all the decades of to spend $30,000 out of pocket before nized that rural is different and thus re- efforts to protect rural patients’ access to they even get to their insurance. For a quires different programs to succeed. Rural care, could rapidly be undone. The National middle class family, that means they payment programs for hospitals and pro- Rural Health Association implores Congress have no meaningful insurance at all. viders are not ‘bonus’ payments, but rather to act now to protect rural health care We can do better, and we will. That alternative, cost-effective and targeted pay- across the nation. starts today. ment formulas that maintain access to care Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- for millions of rural patients and financial clude in the RECORD a letter from the clude in the RECORD a letter from the stability for thousands of rural providers American Thoracic Society opposed to National Rural Health Association op- across the country. Any federal health care reform must protect a state’s ability to pro- this bill. posed to this bill. tect its rural safety net providers. The fed- AMERICAN THORACIC SOCIETY, [From the National Rural Health eral government must not abdicate its April 27, 2017. Association] moral, legal, and financial responsibilities to DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the VOTE NO TO THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT rural, Medicaid eligible populations by en- 16,000 members of the American Thoracic So- The National Rural Health Association suring access to care. ciety (ATS), I want to voice my grave con- urges a NO vote on the American Health Any federal health care reform proposal cerns with the latest legislative proposal de- Care Act (AHCA). must protect access to care in Rural Amer- veloped to repeal and replace the Affordable Rural Americans are older, poorer and ica, and must provide an option to a state to Care Act (ACA). While CBO estimates are sicker than other populations. In fact, a Jan- receive an enhanced reimbursement included not yet available for the most recent legisla- uary 2017 CDC report pronounced that life in a matching rate or a per capita cap, spe- tion proposal being considered in the House, expectancies for rural Americans have de- cifically targeted to create stability among we remain concerned that the bill, if en- clined and the top five chronic diseases are rural providers to maintain access to care acted, will result in a loss of health insur- worse in rural America. The AHCA does for rural communities. Enhancements must ance for millions of Americans. Should the nothing to improve the health care crisis in be equivalent to the cost of providing care proposal come up for a vote in the near fu- rural America, and will lead to poorer rural for rural safety net providers, a safeguard ture, we urge you to vote ‘‘NO’’ on the Amer- health outcomes, more uninsured and an in- that ensures the enhanced reimbursement is ican Health Care Act. crease in the rural hospital closure crisis. provided to the safety net provider to allow The ATS opposes any legislation that does Though some provisions in the modified for continued access to care. Rural safety not ensure affordable health insurance cov- AHCA bill improve the base bill, NRHA is net providers include, but not limited to, erage for Americans currently insured under

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.032 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4131 the ACA. We are concerned that allowing 1. The health of all Americans should im- support 15 leading academic medical centers/ states to waive important insurance reforms prove as a result of our health policy health systems, 100 Jewish nursing homes, in the Affordable Care Act will lead to re- choices. Sufficient resources must be made and 125 Jewish family & children’s agencies, duced coverage for many Americans and sig- available to ensure optimal health. providing health care for more than one mil- nificant price increases for patients with pre- 2. Access to quality health care is a right lion clients, Jewish and non-Jewish alike. existing conditions. Further, we are con- that must be extended to all Americans. Medicaid is a lifeline for more than 80 mil- cerned that reliance on ‘‘high risk pools’’ 3. Nutrition services, from pre-conception lion people, including low-income children, will not adequately meet the health insur- through end of life, are an essential compo- older adults, and people with disabilities na- ance needs of many Americans with pre-ex- nent of comprehensive health care. tionwide. Medicaid is a vital program for isting conditions. We note that previous at- 4. Stable, sufficient and reliable funding is Jewish federations throughout the country tempts at implementing state-based high necessary for our health care system to pro- and particularly for our communal health risk pools have been largely unsuccessful. vide everyone access to a core package of and long-term care partners that care for the Members of the ATS serve a large and di- benefits. most vulnerable in our communities. 5. Health care must be patient-centered. JFNA is deeply troubled by the findings of verse patient population, including patients Affordable access to care is an ongoing the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) that with respiratory diseases, critical illnesses challenge that any reform legislation should AHCA will cause $839 billion in reductions— and sleep disorders such as asthma, COPD, address. Although this legislation purports about 25 percent—to federal Medicaid fund- pneumonia, sepsis and obstructive sleep to provide access, it fails to make coverage ing and a loss in coverage for more than 14 apnea. Our patients cannot afford to lose af- more affordable; unaffordable access to cov- fordable health insurance coverage for any erage is really not coverage at all. The pro- million Medicaid beneficiaries. We believe period of time. posal fails to maintain a core package of that converting Medicaid to a block grant or The ATS looks forward to working with benefits that improve the health of Ameri- per capita cap will cause irreparable harm Congress to improve our health care system cans, by removing a basic floor of services not only to the millions who depend on the and ensure health insurance coverage for all that should be provided without cost-sharing program, but also to our large network of Americans. If you have questions or need ad- to the Medicaid population. providers who care for them. ditional information, please contact Nuala Additionally, the new proposal would allow AHCA would convert the long-standing and S. Moore, Associate Director of Government states to opt out of requiring that health fundamental federal-state partnership of the Relations. plans cover the Essential Health Benefits Medicaid program to a block grant or per Sincerely, which help reduce longer term health care capita cap system. Under either approach, DAVID GOZAL, MD, MBA, costs, allow insurers to charge people higher states would receive a limited amount of fed- President. premiums based on pre-existing conditions eral money for their Medicaid programs. As Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- like nutrition related diseases like diabetes CBO found, even under a per capita cap sys- tem, the federal share is lower than the aver- clude in the RECORD a letter from the and heart disease and increase out-of-pocket age annual increase in Medicaid spending Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics op- costs for vulnerable older adults. By repealing the Prevention and Public and will not be sufficiently flexible to ad- posed to this bill. Health Fund, the proposal eliminates the dress a variety of key factors affecting Med- ACADEMY OF NUTRITION sole federal investment in prevention, which icaid spending, including major disasters, AND DIETETICS, will harm our state and local communities economic downturns, unexpected health care Washington, DC, May 2, 2017. that depend on these effective public-private cost increases, and demographic changes, Hon. PAUL RYAN, partnerships to improve the health of their such as the rapidly aging baby boomer gen- Speaker, House of Representatives, communities. eration. CBO projected that AHCA’s $839 bil- Washington, DC. The AHCA as currently drafted fails to lion cut in federal Medicaid funding will Hon. NANCY PELOSI, meet the Academy’s five tenets, and there- shift substantial costs to state and local gov- Democratic Leader, House of Representatives, fore we cannot support the passage of these ernments, our providers, and our patients, Washington, DC. proposals. thus exacerbating the existing strain on the DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: The Academy urges Congress to not hold program. We agree with CBO’s conclusion Nutrition services save money, improve future votes without an evaluation of the that, due to these reductions in funding, chronic disease outcomes and save lives. For proposed amendments from the Congres- states will be left with no choice but to re- this reason, the Academy of Nutrition and sional Budget Office estimating the budg- duce Medicaid enrollment, eligibility for Dietetics, the nation’s largest organization etary impact of the amended legislation and Medicaid benefits, and payment rates. Many of food and nutrition professionals, remains the anticipated effect on coverage for Ameri- people who now qualify for Medicaid could opposed to H.R. 1628, the American Health cans. We look forward to continued collabo- end up uninsured or losing access to critical Care Act (AHCA) as amended by the Mac- ration to improve the health and nutrition health and long-term care services. Arthur amendment. for all Americans. JFNA is concerned by many of the unin- The Academy and our 75,000-plus members Sincerely, tended consequences of this legislation, such believe that all Americans should have both LUCILLE BESELER, as: coverage and access to high-quality health President. People who desperately need Medicaid and care. The Academy urges Congress to sup- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- who are currently eligible will become unin- port measures that include nutrition serv- clude in the RECORD a letter from The sured; States will be forced to cut back on crucial ices and prevention that reduces the cost of Jewish Federations of North America health care and improve patients’ lives. Medicaid services, such as home and commu- The new proposal set forth in the AHCA opposed to this bill. nity-based services, effectively forcing peo- not only fails to improve the health of all THE JEWISH FEDERATIONS ple who are capable of living in the commu- Americans, but it will worsen patient care OF NORTH AMERICA, nity with proper home and community-based and public health by removing vital re- Washington, DC, May 2, 2017. services into nursing homes; sources that are currently effective in im- Hon. PAUL RYAN, States will be forced to reduce already low proving health across the country. Speaker, House of Representatives, provider payment rates, thus further de- This legislation continues to eliminate in- Washington, DC. creasing the pool of providers serving Med- vestments in prevention and public health, Hon. NANCY PELOSI, icaid beneficiaries and increasing waiting reverse advancements made in disease pre- Minority Leader, House of Representatives, times for services; and, vention and chronic care management, and Washington, DC. Health care providers and entities that according to the Congressional Budget Of- DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: care for these vulnerable populations will fice, would result in the loss of health care The Jewish Federations of North America suffer additional financial strain. As a re- coverage for at least 24 million Americans (JFNA) remains staunchly opposed to the sult, these agencies will be forced to lay off Allowing states to waive pre-existing condi- American Health Care Act of 2017 (AHCA), staff or close their doors altogether, result- tions and essential health benefits will lead even with the recently released amendment ing in significant job losses and further hurt- to decreased coverage and utilization of vital proposed by Representative Tom MacArthur ing state economies. nutrition services. (R–NJ). We are disappointed that AHCA re- For these reasons, we must oppose the leg- Individuals with chronic disease such as di- tains the devastating cuts to Medicaid in- islation as currently written and urge the abetes and hypertension benefit from med- cluded in the earlier version of the legisla- House of Representatives to reconsider mov- ical nutrition therapy and nutrition services tion, cuts which are the result of the legisla- ing forward with it. We stand ready to work to lower their blood sugar and blood pres- tion’s proposal to dramatically restructure with you, in tandem with our Jewish com- sure, while reducing reliance on expensive Medicaid’s federal financing structure and munal health and long-term care providers, medications. The cost of these services is in- roll back coverage for 14 million people cov- to promote more targeted ways to reduce expensive and replaces more costly interven- ered by the state Medicaid expansions. The Medicaid spending and develop a new frame- tions that are necessary as chronic disease amendment does nothing to alleviate these work of policies to improve Medicaid qual- progresses with many complications. concerns. ity, efficiency, and sustainability. The Academy holds five key tenets for ana- JFNA represents 148 Jewish federations Sincerely, lyzing any legislation to reform health care: and 300 network communities that together WILLIAM C. DAROFF,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.041 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4132 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Senior Vice President Foundation. ‘‘Many employers offer quality Despite Obama’s promises, my plan was for Public Policy & benefits to attract employees. But employers canceled at an affordable $450 a month when Director of the are always looking for ways to lower costs.’’ ObamaCare was implemented. My new plan Washington Office. Fifty-nine percent of employers had a life- has gone up every year and for 2017 will be Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- time limit on how much their insurance over $1,300 a month. My husband and I can- plans would cover before the ACA, Mr. Levitt not keep up with these increases. Soon it clude in the RECORD an article in The said. will be a choice between food and housing or Wall Street Journal today stating: The potential impact on large-employer health care. ‘‘. . . employers looking to lower their plans was picked up on by health analysts costs could impose lifetime limits and Virginia from Florida. including Matthew Fiedler, a fellow at the Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the eliminate the out-of-pocket cost cap Brookings Institution. It is possible the from their plans under the GOP legisla- Trump administration could minimize the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. MITCH- tion.’’ impact by barring employers from picking ELL). plans across state lines, he said, but there is Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, my [From the Wall Street Journal] no sign that that would occur. question today is: How long will the LITTLE-NOTED PROVISION OF GOP HEALTH ‘‘The core goal of insurance is to ensure opposition try to hold on to the failing BILL COULD ALTER EMPLOYER PLANS that people are protected if the worst hap- Affordable Care Act? How long will LAST-MINUTE AMENDMENT WOULD ALLOW pens, and these protections are crucial to they desperately try to hold on with STATES TO OBTAIN WAIVERS FROM CERTAIN achieving that goal,’’ Mr. Fiedler said. their fingernails, screaming and AFFORDABLE CARE ACT REQUIREMENTS Potentially, the new provision could play out this way: If a state did away with a re- thrashing at something that is failing (By Stephanie Armour and Michelle so miserably? Hackman) quirement to provide mental health and sub- stance abuse services, employer plans using Just this week, it was announced Many people who obtain health insurance that benchmark could impose lifetime caps that 94 of 99 counties of Iowa will not through their employers—about half of the on the amount of mental health coverage have a carrier at all. In Michigan this country—could be at risk of losing protec- they are willing to pay for. tions that limit out-of-pocket costs for cata- year, individual policy premiums went One trade group representing employers up 20 percent, never mind deductibles strophic illnesses, due to a little-noticed pro- said the amendment’s effects on people with vision of the House Republican health-care employer-sponsored health coverage would and copays. bill to be considered Thursday, health-policy be minimal. Most large employers didn’t im- While currently 26 million Americans experts say. pose annual or lifetime limits before the do not have coverage, 19.2 million ei- The provision, part of a last-minute ACA was implemented, according to James ther claim a waiver or pay a penalty amendment, lets states obtain waivers from Gelfand, senior vice president of health pol- that last year was $3 billion. Yet some- certain Affordable Care Act insurance regu- icy at the Erisa Industry Committee. how the other side claims the Afford- lations. Insurers in states that obtain the ‘‘Even if self-insured health plans are no waivers could be freed from a regulation able Care Act is some form of nirvana. longer banned from imposing annual or life- The American Health Care Act guar- mandating that they cover 10 particular time limits, they’re unlikely to attempt to types of health services, among them mater- squeeze the toothpaste back into the tube,’’ antees issuance of coverage and targets nity care, prescription drugs, mental health he said. ‘‘The benefits of reimposing limits assistance to those who have health treatment and hospitalization. are questionable.’’ challenges, in contrast to the Afford- That could also affect plans offered by Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield able Care Act that just thinks we large employers, health analysts said. should throw money at it. What The ACA prevents employer plans from 1 minute to the distinguished gen- putting annual limits on the amount of care tleman from Michigan (Mr. LEVIN). amazes me, in my first few months they will cover, and it bars lifetime limits on (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given per- here in Congress, if there is a problem, the 10 essential benefits. But in 2011, the mission to revise and extend his re- we will just throw money. The opposi- Obama administration issued guidance stat- marks.) tion wants a blank check, which will ing that employers aren’t bound by the bene- Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it has just not work in this country. It is going to fits mandated by their state and can pick kill this country. from another state’s list of required benefits. been said that no one with a pre- existing condition will be denied treat- Let me suggest to my colleague from That guidance was mostly meaningless be- Michigan, my neighbor, that if he cause the ACA established a national set of ment. That is a cruel falsehood. Rough- essential benefits. ly 129 million Americans today have a wants to schedule to go around the Under the House bill, large employers preexisting condition. State and talk about the benefits of could choose the benefit requirements from Here is what the AMA says to refute this program, the Affordable Care Act, any state—including those that are allowed what was just said: ‘‘The history of I will go with him. We will go any- to lower their benchmarks under a waiver, high-risk pools demonstrates that where he would like to go. health analysts said. By choosing a waiver Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- state, employers looking to lower their costs Americans with preexisting conditions will be stuck in second class health clude in the RECORD a statement from could impose lifetime limits and eliminate the Children’s Hospital Association in the out-of-pocket cost cap from their plans coverage, if they are able to obtain under the GOP legislation. coverage at all.’’ opposition to this bill. The measure would give employers added Now we have a proposal for $8 billion. [From Children’s Hospital Association, flexibility to take steps that could lower That is a deceitful fraud. I intend going Apr. 27, 2017] costs by limiting more-expensive coverage back home to travel the State of CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS URGE HOUSE TO VOTE areas. And it would lessen the federal regula- AGAINST AMENDED AHCA tion of insurers, a goal of GOP lawmakers Michigan and elsewhere and tell the who believe the ACA is an example of gov- American people that although those LAWMAKERS SHOULD KNOW BILL IS BAD FOR ernment overreach. who have said that are simply not KIDS The impact on employer plans expands the being truthful, they essentially are WASHINGTON, DC.—On behalf of our na- scope of the health bill to affect, potentially, turning their backs on 129 million tion’s children’s hospitals and the patients everyone not insured by Medicare or small- Americans. We Democrats will never and families they serve, Children’s Hospital business plans, since the bill also includes turn our back on the people of the Association (CHA) continues to oppose the cuts to Medicaid and changes to the indi- United States of America. When it newly modified American Health Care Act vidual market. Employer health plans are (AHCA) and strongly urges the House of Rep- the single largest source of health insurance comes to health care, it is a vital need. resentatives to reject the bill. Recently in the country, with about 159 million Amer- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- adopted changes only worsen the AHCA by icans receiving coverage through their jobs. er, I yield myself such time as I may putting children with preexisting conditions ‘‘It’s huge,’’ said Andy Slavitt, former act- consume. at increased risk of losing health care cov- ing administrator of the Centers for Medi- Mr. Speaker, even with, again, the erage and failing to correct the Medicaid care and Medicaid Services under President muddled hysterics, there is nothing in cuts that would impact over 30 million kids. Barack Obama. ‘‘They’re creating a back- this bill, even if you have preexisting The legislation the House might consider door way to gut employer plans, too.’’ coverage now, there is nothing that for a vote as early as the weekend would im- But some experts say the impact could be pose over $800 billion in cuts on states by less. says you lose it. Let’s at least get the fundamentally changing Medicaid—a pro- ‘‘The real question is, would employers do facts straight. gram over 40 percent of the children across this? Many wouldn’t,’’ said Larry Levitt, a Also, let’s talk about families and the country depend on for their health care senior vice president at the Kaiser Family why we are here. coverage and access to medical care. Under

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.043 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4133 the bill, Medicaid would no longer be able to Unfortunately, the amendment does not ad- Both my husband and I are small-business flex with the needs of enrollees, instead be- dress the limitations in the original meas- owners and must pay for individual insur- coming a severely restricted system of per ure, such as making high-quality, affordable ance. We are on the highest deductible plan capita caps or block grants. health insurance available to all, and main- offered to us, a monthly premium over $1,000, The block grant option in particular would taining programs to support the health care and outstanding medical bills that we are be devastating to children as it eliminates safety net—at least at current levels—until struggling to pay off. We have seen our pre- Medicaid’s EPSDT (Early and Periodic other comparable coverage expansions are mium go up at least 14 percent and the ex- Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment) ben- available. penses of care, lab, et cetera. With all excep- efit which ensures children receive immuni- The amendment’s treatment of essential tions, to the President, he is offering to his zations, mental health assessments and vi- health benefits and health status under- corporate friends. We are the ones who get sion, eye and hearing exams as well as other writing dilutes protections for many Ameri- ignored. medical services they might need. A block cans and would leave individuals with pre- That is the true face of ObamaCare. grant would also remove cost-sharing protec- existing conditions facing higher premiums Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the tions for children, essentially creating new and reduced access to vital care. gentleman from Texas (Mr. BARTON). barriers to care for low-income, working The shortcomings in the underlying bill re- (Mr. BARTON asked and was given families. main the same. The original analysis from CHA urgently asks members of Congress to the Congressional Budget Office indicated permission to revise and extend his re- vote against the AHCA. Medicaid must be that 14 million Americans would lose their marks.) maintained to ensure children receive the health insurance coverage as early as next Mr. BARTON. Mr. Speaker, mandates coverage and medical care that return life- year, and as many as 24 million by 2024. seldom work. Markets do work. long benefits into adulthood. Investing in Nothing in the bill has changed that alters My friends on the Democratic side of children’s health advances a better future for the fact that this legislation would lead to the aisle haven’t pointed out that 19 our nation. fewer Americans with quality insurance, less million Americans have chosen to pay Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- affordable coverage for those who have it, the tax penalty to the IRS, rather than clude a statement from Families USA and the destabilization of the current Med- be forced into one of these ObamaCare icaid program. in opposition to this bill. We continue to urge members of Congress plans. [From FAMILIESUSA] to engage with the nation’s medical schools They talk about all the people who LATEST HOUSE GOP PROPOSAL—‘‘UPTON and teaching hospitals and other stake- have gotten coverage. Most of them got AMENDMENT’’—STILL LEAVES PEOPLE WITH holders to find ways to achieve high quality coverage when the bill that is now PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS OUT IN THE COLD health care for all Americans.’’ called ObamaCare expanded Medicaid WASHINGTON, DC.—Republicans in the Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield to healthy adults and paid 100 percent House today are discussing a so-called com- 1 minute to the gentlewoman from of the cost to cover those individuals promise that ostensibly adds $8 billion to California (Ms. SA´ NCHEZ), the vice at a cost right now of about $70 billion their Affordable Care Act (ACA) repeal bill chair of the Democratic Caucus. a year. in an attempt to appease members worried ´ Mandates don’t work; markets do. I that the bill strips coverage guarantees for Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, I can’t people with pre-existing conditions. Below is believe we are here again to vote, or choose less government mandate, more a statement from Families USA Executive not, on the Republicans so-called personal freedom. Director Frederick Isasi. healthcare bill. Vote for the rule; vote for the bill. ‘‘Despite today’s wheeling and dealing, the Let me remind my colleagues that we Let’s restore markets and freedom to GOP repeal bill still drops the coverage guar- are finally here only after Republicans health care in America. antee for people with pre-existing condi- failed to even hold a vote on March 24, Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield tions, strips coverage from millions, and and then offered extreme, multiple 1 minute to the gentlewoman from drives up costs for millions more. A measly California (Ms. JUDY CHU of California.) $8 billion handout isn’t going to change that. amendments to appease the furthest right of their party. Ms. JUDY CHU of California. Mr. The bill also decimates Medicaid—more than Speaker, yesterday, Kate called my of- $800 billion in cuts. That hurts seniors, peo- But I have to give it to them: it ple with disabilities, and children like takes real cojones to stand here and fice, worried for her son who is 1-year- Jimmy Kimmel’s son who he so eloquently vote on a bill that they know provides old and was born with muscular dys- spoke of Monday night. Remember, half of nearly zero healthcare benefits for the trophy. He will need care for the rest of the births in America are reimbursed American people. It takes real for- his life. through Medicaid. Without the ban on preexisting con- titude and conviction to stand up for a ‘‘The Upton $8 billion is a non-solution— ditions, the cost of insurance for her bill that cuts coverage for 24 million money thrown at ‘high-risk pools’ that ex- son will be astronomical. She is para- Americans, guts Medicaid, reduces the perts on both sides of the aisle have warned lyzed with fear about how she is going lead to higher costs, fewer benefits, and solvency of Medicare, and segregates to be able to care for him for the rest waiting lists rationing care for those with the sickest. of his life. Under TrumpCare, the pre-existing conditions. The truth is, Republicans lack the healthcare bill written for Donald ‘‘Republicans in the House can do all the bravery to call this bill what it really Trump and not the American people, backroom vote-trading they want; their bill is: a massive tax cut for the rich on the will still harm millions and millions of peo- insurance companies will be able to backs of working moms and dads and ple in America and breaks President Trump’s charge Kate’s son more because he has the sick. They lack the integrity to do promise to cover everybody and protect peo- a preexisting condition. the hard work that it takes to craft an ple with pre-existing conditions. This isn’t Imagine that. Her son’s health care what people in America want. It is time for actual healthcare bill that would build will be out of reach, his precious life the GOP to drop this deeply flawed legisla- upon current law and improve the endangered. That is unimaginably tion and move on to efforts that will help, health of Americans. cruel, especially when we have a sys- and not hurt, America’s families.’’ I implore my colleagues to come to tem in place right now that gets Kate’s Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- their senses, vote against this terrible clude a statement from the Association son the treatment he deserves. bill, and work with us to continue to That is why I am opposing this bill of American Medical Colleges in oppo- improve health care in this country for today. I cannot support a measure that sition to this bill. all Americans. we know will cost sick people more [From AAMC, May 2, 2017] Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- money, will force families to pay high- AAMC STATEMENT ON THE MACARTHUR er, I yield myself such time as I may er premiums and deductibles, will force AMENDMENT TO THE AMERICAN HEALTH consume. 24 million people off their insurance, CARE ACT Mr. Speaker, I have been waiting also and guts essential health benefits. AAMC (Association of American Medical for my friends across the aisle to stand I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on Colleges) President and CEO Darrell G. up and say that ObamaCare is a failure. this horrific bill today. Kirch, MD, issued the following statement I guess they can’t. For the last 7 years, regarding the amendment to the American the voters have. b 1015 Health Care Act (AHCA) introduced by Rep. Tom MacArthur (R–N.J.): Small business owners and American Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- ‘‘This week, the House could vote on a new entrepreneurs: er, I believe probably the reason they version of the American Health Care Act As an entrepreneur with two special needs won’t vote for it is they don’t under- that includes the MacArthur amendment. children, the ACA is an expensive nightmare. stand it, because preexisting conditions

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.029 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4134 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 are covered. If you have coverage now, lican colleagues are afraid to have a out of requiring health plans to cover the 10 nothing in our bill, no matter what full, open, lengthy debate about these essential health benefits such as maternity would come from the State or anyone impacts. We are taking a consequential care, mental health and substance abuse dis- piece of legislation, and Republicans order services and prescription drug cov- else, would lose the preexisting condi- erage. It would also allow insurers to charge tions. I guess it is just easier to talk are jamming it through without a CBO significantly higher premiums for people your talking points and have your score so they don’t know the impacts, with pre-existing conditions and possibly poster and go from there. and we don’t have the confidence. allow insurers to charge older adults even Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the We do know, however, my friend from higher premiums. The inclusion of a mere $8 gentleman from Florida (Mr. MAST). Massachusetts has read into the billion over five years will do little to help Mr. MAST. Mr. Speaker, I, too, am a RECORD item after item, the medical people with pre-existing conditions who person with preexisting conditions, and association, disease advocacy groups, could see drastically higher premiums leav- I believe it is not just something that the American Association of Retired ing millions in the individual and small group market with no protections from in- I should do; it is a responsibility for me People, it is an honor roll of people surer discrimination. to be the staunchest advocate for peo- who know about health care, who The bill would also eliminate the Preven- ple out there who have preexisting con- fought to preserve and protect and en- tion and Public Health Fund, the first and ditions. That is why I am such an ar- hance, and the Republicans have no an- only mandatory funding stream specifically dent supporter of this bill. swer to refute this litany of experts dedicated to public health and prevention ac- I think every American and every who are independent, who are profes- tivities. The fund has already provided more person out there with preexisting con- sional, who care. Who are opposed. than $6 billion to support a variety of public health activities in every state including ditions should be asking themselves: That is something that I think Repub- tracking and preventing infectious diseases How is it that they have coverage if licans should be ashamed of. like the Ebola and Zika viruses, community every single insurance provider has They have had 7 years chipping away and clinical prevention programs, preventing pulled out of the market? If there is no at the Affordable Care Act to try to childhood lead poisoning and expanding ac- entity to go to out there and provide make it worse, yet it still is supported cess to childhood immunizations. Elimi- insurance, how is it that preexisting by people who know. The Republican nating the fund would devastate the budget conditions could possibly be covered? approach should be rejected. of the Centers for Disease Control and Pre- vention. The fund currently makes up 12 per- I have had the question constantly: Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- er, I reserve the balance of my time. cent of CDC’s budget and eliminating this How is it so difficult for Republicans to funding stream would force Congress to re- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I in- get this bill passed, to get this through place the funding through the regular appro- the floor? The answer is this, and this clude in the RECORD a letter from the priations process where resources for non- is again the question that every Amer- American Public Health Association in defense discretionary programs are already ican should be asking themselves: Who strong opposition to the Republican too low. is going out there and saying that pre- bill. Not only would the bill phase out the Med- icaid expansion under the ACA, it would also existing conditions won’t be covered? AMERICAN PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION, make other troubling changes to the Med- It is the exact same group of people May 4, 2017. icaid program, converting it to a per capita that went out there and lied to the face HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, program. The most recent CBO analysis esti- of every single American, telling them Washington, DC. mated the bill would cut federal spending on that if they liked their plan, they DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the Medicaid by $839 billion over the next dec- would keep their plan; if they liked American Public Health Association, a di- ade, drastically cutting resources to states, their doctor, they would keep their verse community of public health profes- many of which are already struggling with doctor; that the average American sionals who champion the health of all peo- tight budgets. The bill would also block Med- ple and communities, I write to express our icaid reimbursements to Planned Parent- family was going to save $2,500 or more continued strong opposition to H.R. 1628, the hood for one year—which CBO estimates will on health insurance. American Health Care Act of 2017, legislation lead to less access to care, more unintended That was a bold-faced lie. It was or- to repeal the Affordable Care Act. The births and more costs for the Medicaid pro- chestrated by architects who specifi- amended bill would be even worse for the na- gram. cally went out with the intention to tion’s health than the original proposal and While the Affordable Care Act is not per- prey on the American people. That is does nothing to improve the health of the fect, the law has made progress in addressing who is going out there selling these lies American public. Additionally, the bill the biggest challenges facing our health sys- would have the greatest negative impact on tem including the rising costs associated against my party. I resent that com- with our health care system, uneven quality pletely because we have come up with the health of the most vulnerable Ameri- cans. of care, deaths due to medical errors, dis- a plan, with a strategy to go out there According to the March Congressional criminatory practices by health insurance and save health care for the American Budget Office analysis, the legislation would providers and the shrinking ranks of the na- people, and I couldn’t be more proud of result in 14 million Americans losing health tion’s primary care providers. The ACA has that. insurance coverage in 2018. By 2026, CBO esti- made progress in shifting our health system Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, maybe mates 24 million individuals would lose cov- from one that focuses on treating the sick to the gentleman hasn’t been listening to erage, taking the uninsured rate up to a one that focuses on keeping people healthy. all the organizations and healthcare staggering 52 million, nearly double the We ask you to oppose this and future efforts to repeal or weaken the ACA. Instead, we advocates who have come out strongly number of Americans who would lack insur- ance under existing law. The bill would cut urge you to work on a bipartisan basis to im- opposed to the Republican bill, that I critical premium subsidies for low- and mid- prove and build upon the successes of the have read into the RECORD, who know a dle-income families and phase out the ACA’s ACA and to work to provide health insurance lot more about health care than any- Medicaid expansion. Under the proposal, coverage to the more than 28 million who body in this House, who spend their many, especially low-income and older still lack coverage. We look forward to work- lives protecting people and protecting Americans, would pay higher premiums, re- ing with you to create the healthiest nation people’s healthcare rights. They are all ceive lower subsidies and be subject to high- in one generation. in strong opposition to the Republican er out of pocket costs, including higher Sincerely, GEORGES C. BENJAMIN, MD, bill because you take away the protec- deductibles and co-pays for plans that pro- vide less coverage. Health insurance cov- Executive Director. tions for preexisting conditions, plain erage is critical to preventing disease, ensur- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield and simple. ing health and well-being and driving down 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the the use of costlier providers of care. Unfortu- Connecticut (Ms. DELAURO). gentleman from Oregon (Mr. BLU- nately, this proposal will result in a greater Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, the Re- MENAUER). number of people losing coverage than the publican healthcare bill is reckless and Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, we number of people who have gained coverage heartless: began this debate listening to my under the Affordable Care Act, putting many It increases the cost of premiums and friend from Texas talk about how he at risk of premature death due to the lack of access to critical health services. deductibles; was humbled to be here today sup- The amended bill would be even worse for It imposes an age tax on older Ameri- porting the Republican bill. Well, public health than the original bill that was cans; frankly, I think he should be embar- pulled from the House floor in late March. It unravels protections for patients rassed, embarrassed that my Repub- The amended bill would allow states to opt- with preexisting conditions;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.041 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4135 It eliminates maternity care, sub- just two of them were adequate for our re- preexisting conditions, but will work stance abuse treatment, and prescrip- gion. In 2013, our insurance cost $180,000 for to bring down premiums. tion drug coverage; 92 lives with a $2,000 deductible. In 2016, we Importantly, those defending the Af- It does away with lifetime limits and paid $252,000 for just 61 lives who face a $5,000 fordable Care Act had a goal: single- deductible. Our options are dwindling, our annual caps. costs are skyrocketing, and our employees payer, socialized medicine, and this President Trump’s claim that people are ultimately suffering because of the ACA. legislation will stop it. Vote for this legislation, save our with preexisting conditions will be cov- Again, a defense of the defenseless or healthcare system, and have a much ered is false, and it is a betrayal. It will a positive solution for America; that is better result for the American people. have threatening consequences for mil- what we are offering. Mr. MC lions of Americans. It will cost lives. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of GOVERN. May I inquire of the If this passes today, the American my time. gentleman how many more speakers he has? people should be in the street to call Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield out the immorality of this legislation. 30 seconds to the gentlewoman from Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- er, I am still waiting on a couple more They should decry this offense against Wisconsin (Ms. MOORE). humanity and this offense against the Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, analysis of speakers, but I am ready to close when- American people. I call on the Amer- health insurance coverage for the past ever the gentleman is. ican people: Do not let them get away 30 years, analysis of data from the New Mr. MCGOVERN. Well, I am not real- with it. England Journal of Medicine shows ly prepared to close because my side Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- that, for every 455 people who are in- has a ton more to say, but I am out of er, I reserve the balance of my time. sured, one life will be saved. With the time. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield repeal of the Affordable Care Act, it is Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- 1 minute to the distinguished gen- estimated that 43,956 people a year will er, I will tell Mr. MCGOVERN, it is his tleman from Rhode Island (Mr. LAN- die. time to manage. GEVIN). Long live the Republican Party. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- myself the balance of my time, and today in strong opposition to the Re- er, I reserve the balance of my time. given the fact there were no hearings publicans’ latest plan to dismantle the Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield or anything else, it would have been Affordable Care Act. After Republicans 30 seconds to the gentleman from nice to have a little bit more time. failed to earn the votes to pass their Vermont (Mr. WELCH). Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the pre- American Health Care Act in March, I Mr. WELCH. Mr. Speaker, President vious question, I will offer an amend- thought that we could finally move for- Trump was elected by rural America. ment to the rule that would change the ward to find bipartisan solutions to im- This bill betrays rural America three rules of the House to prevent this bill proving health care in America. In- ways: or any other healthcare-related legisla- stead, Republicans have revived their Health care, 24 million-plus are going tion from being considered if it does partisan goal of ACA repeal by adding to lose their health care, many of them not have a CBO cost estimate or if it provisions that have made a bad bill in rural America; would deny health coverage or require even worse. Second, it takes healthcare dollars higher premiums due to preexisting Mr. Speaker, make no mistake about and it turns them into a $7 million tax conditions; impose lifetime limits on it; the bill before us today will make cut for the wealthiest 400 families in health coverage; prevent individuals Americans’ health care worse in this this country; under age 26 from being covered under country: Third, the tenet of rural America is: their parents’ plan; reduce the number This legislation will cause 24 million we are in it together. That means if of people receiving health care under people to lose coverage, while dras- you are born with a preexisting condi- the Affordable Care Act; increase costs tically increasing healthcare costs on tion, you have a preexisting condition, to seniors by reopening the doughnut everyday families; we are going to be there for you. hole and raising prescription drug It eliminates Federal safeguards that This bill turns its back on rural costs; require people to pay for preven- prevent insurers from charging older America, the people who stand up for tive services, including cancer Americans higher premiums; one another and believe we are in it to- screenings; reduce Medicare solvency It guts essential health benefits, like gether, you are not on your own. or change the Medicare guarantee; or maternity care and prescription drugs; Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- reduce Federal taxes on the 1 percent Further, it removes crucial patient er, I appreciate it, but it is amazing the of the population with the highest in- protections that prevent discrimina- concern for rural health care now comes or increase taxes on the 80 per- tion against people with preexisting under ObamaCare when much of rural cent of hardworking Americans earn- conditions, leaving our most vulner- America has been down to one pro- ing moderate to low incomes. able populations with a false promise vider. That is not a choice. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- of sufficient coverage through these Mr. Speaker, I yield 45 seconds to the sent to insert the text of my amend- failed high-risk pools. gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. ment in the RECORD, along with extra- Mr. Speaker, I am saddened that so ROTHFUS). neous materials, immediately prior to many Republicans appear willing to Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I am lis- the vote on the previous question. place hollow partisan victories above tening to this debate and I am hearing The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there the health of their constituents. I op- a lot of demagoguery and no solutions, objection to the request of the gen- pose the Republican AHCA in the no solutions for people who have seen tleman from Massachusetts? strongest possible terms and urge all of skyrocketing premiums, no solutions There was no objection. my colleagues to put the health of for people who have lost their Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, none Americans first. healthcare plans, no solutions for peo- of us on this side are claiming that the Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- ple who have lost their doctors, no so- Affordable Care Act is perfect. In fact, er, 7 years ago, our friends across the lutions for people with preexisting con- for 7 years, we have been prepared to aisle put partisan interests above the ditions who are subject to the same work with our Republican colleagues in health of the American people, and we skyrocketing premiums as everybody a bipartisan way to make it even bet- are seeing the results of that today. In else, no solutions for people with pre- ter, to cover more people, to find ways fact, a small-business owner from Mis- existing conditions who don’t even to lower costs; but for 7 years, my Re- souri says: have an insurer in their exchanges. publican colleagues had no interest in I, too, have a preexisting condition. I doing that. All they wanted to do was I recall the days before the ACA when we am a cancer survivor. I am in the indi- repeal the bill, repeal the bill, repeal would receive a 2-inch notebook that con- tained multiple quotes from different health vidual market. I am seeing the same the bill and offer no alternative. insurance companies. Now our options are skyrocketing premiums as everybody Now we see their alternative, and it listed on a single legal-sized sheet of paper. else. We are moving legislation today is an awful alternative. It is a disaster. We only received three quotes for 2017, and that will not only protect those with It is an alternative that came not out

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.042 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4136 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 of a deliberative process, but out of people have said: No. Stop it. We don’t condition to pay more for premiums on the some back room somewhere. People want a healthcare system from govern- basis of such individuals having such a pre- haven’t even read this bill. They don’t ment that takes freedom away from us existing condition. even know what it does because we are and that removes it from us. (2) The elimination of the prohibition on life time limits on the dollar value of health not even waiting for a CBO score. This We have been presented with a list of insurance coverage benefits. is a pathetic process that everybody letters from folks who are against this (3) The termination of the ability of indi- should be ashamed of. bill. Well, it is just a quick reminder to viduals under 26 years of age to be included Let me just say, to claim or to imply those, Mr. Speaker, who may be want- on their parent’s employer or individual that the Republican plan covers people ing to remember. Some of these same health coverage. with preexisting conditions, it is a lie. folks were the same folks who said (4) The reduction in the number of people It is a lie. Let’s be honest about it. ObamaCare was great, and who gave receiving health plan coverage pursuant to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care This does not cover people with pre- letters of support. I guess they are try- Act (PL 111–148) and Education Affordability existing conditions. To come on the ing to cover up for 7 years of their first Reconciliation Act of 2010 (PL 111–152). floor and say it does, to try to fool peo- mistake. (5) An increased cost to seniors for pre- ple, well, you may get away with it in When we understand this—let’s go to scription drug coverage pursuant to any the short term, you may get a head- some experts. I will just clarify them changes to provisions closing the Medicare line, but I will tell you, people will fig- as experts, Mr. Speaker. prescription drug ‘donuthole’. ure out soon enough when they are de- President Bill Clinton calling (6) The requirement that individuals pay nied healthcare coverage, when they ObamaCare, last year, the craziest for preventive services, such as for mammog- raphy, health screening, and contraceptive see their costs rise and rise and rise. thing in the world. He summed it up services. To have a healthcare bill that throws pretty well. Because what summed up (7) The reduction of Medicare solvency or 24 million Americans off of health in- here is they forgot the American peo- any changes to the Medicare guarantee. surance, you should be ashamed. ple. (8) The reduction of Federal taxes on the 1 To have a healthcare bill that cuts Republicans have decided that we are percent of the population with the highest Medicaid by $880 billion to give a tax going to put the American people back income or increase the tax burden (expressed cut to the wealthiest people in this in control. We are not going to con- as a percent of aggregate Federal taxes) on country, you should be ashamed. the 80 percent of the population with the tinue to hear from Pam in Nebraska, lowest income. I spent a good deal of my time read- who is self-employed and lost her in- c) It shall not be in order to consider a ing letters from organizations like the surance four times under ObamaCare measure or matter proposing to repeal or National Farmers Union, the AARP, and twice because of the Nebraska amend the Patient Protection and Affordable the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Para- failed startup. Care Act (PL 111–148) and the HealthCare and lyzed Veterans of America, March of If we are going to talk about mis- Education Affordability Reconciliation Act Dimes, the American Medical Associa- leading the American people, it started of 2010 (PL 111–152), or part thereof, in the tion, on and on and on, organizations 7 years ago, and it ends today. It ends House or in the Committee of the Whole that have dedicated their lives to help- House on the state of the Union unless an today. The American people deserve easily searchable electronic estimate and ing people in this country that know better. They have been thrown under comparison prepared by the Director of the something about this subject. the bus for 7 years. They deserve an in- Congressional Budget Office is made avail- b 1030 surance market that is open, that is able on a publicly available website of the accessible, and that does cover pre- House. And when it comes down to who do I existing conditions. (d) It shall not be in order to consider a trust, them or you, on whether or not If you want the deception, follow the measure or matter proposing to repeal or your bill covers people with preexisting other side. If you want the truth, fol- amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PL 111–148) and the Health Care conditions, there is no contest. I trust low this side. them. They see what you are trying to and Education Affordability Reconciliation Mr. Speaker, if I had to defend the Act of 2010 (PL 111–152), or part thereof, in do. They understand that this bill is a last 7 years and offer nothing into the fraud. the House or in the Committee of the Whole faces of these, yeah, I would have been House on the state of the Union, that is It is unconscionable to not only me hysterical on the floor this morning, called up pursuant to a rule or order that and to people on our side, but to people too. And that is exactly what we have makes an amendment in order or considers who are watching this debate—Demo- seen. such an amendment to be adopted, unless an crats, Republicans, and independents So for those who may be, it is time to easily searchable updated electronic esti- mate and comparison prepared by the Direc- alike—that we would be spending time vote ‘‘yes’’ on the rule, ‘‘yes’’ on this debating a healthcare bill that will tor of the Congressional Budget Office re- bill, and start giving back to America flecting such amendment is made available make life worse for people in this coun- the liberty and freedom for a try. Any kind of healthcare bill that on a publicly available website of the House. healthcare system that is the best in (e) It shall not be in order to consider a came to this floor ought to be about the world and has been attacked for 7 rule or order that waives the application of expanding coverage and lowering cost. years. Again, that ends today. paragraph (a), paragraph (b), paragraph (c), We want to work with you on that. In- The material previously referred to or paragraph (d). As disposition of any point stead, you come to a bill that is going of order under paragraphs (c) through (e), the by Mr. MCGOVERN is as follows: to rip health care away from tens of Chair shall put the question of consideration AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 308 OFFERED BY millions of people. with respect to the order, conference report, MR. MCGOVERN How can you do this? How can you do or rule as applicable. The question of consid- At the end of the resolution, add the fol- this to the American people? How can eration shall be debatable for 10 minutes lowing new section: bythe Member initiating the point of order you do this to your constituents? SEC. 3. Rule XXI of the Rules of the House and for 10 minutes by an opponent, but shall This is a terrible bill. You should of Representatives is amended by adding at otherwise be decided without intervening vote ‘‘no’’ on it or, better yet, pull it. the end the following new clause: motion except one that the House adjourn. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance RESTRICTIONS ON CONSIDERATION OF CERTAIN THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT of my time. LEGISLATIVE PROVISIONS RELATING TO IT REALLY MEANS Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- HEALTHCARE This vote, the vote on whether to order the er, I yield myself such time as I may 13.(a) It shall not be in order to consider a previous question on a special rule, is not consume. bill, joint resolution, amendment, or con- merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- What we have seen for the last few ference report which includes any provision dering the previous question is a vote minutes, I would probably get up and described in paragraph (b).’’ against the Republican majority agenda and cheer, too. Because now you look at it (b) A provision referred to in paragraph (a) a vote to allow the Democratic minority to this way. What they want to claim as a is a provision which, if enacted into law, offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about would result in any of the following: what the House should be debating. disaster or recognize as a disaster, they (1) The denial of health insurance coverage Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the didn’t recognize 7 years ago. They to individuals on the basis that such individ- House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- chose to cram it down America’s uals have a pre-existing condition or a re- scribes the vote on the previous question on throat, and for 7 years the American quirement for individuals with a preexisting the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.043 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4137 consideration of the subject before the House Adopting the resolution, if ordered; Butterfield Himes Payne being made by the Member in charge.’’ To and Capuano Hoyer Pelosi defeat the previous question is to give the Carbajal Huffman Perlmutter Agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of ´ opposition a chance to decide the subject be- Cardenas Jackson Lee Peters Carson (IN) Jayapal fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s the Journal. Peterson Cartwright Jeffries Pingree ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that The vote was taken by electronic de- Castor (FL) Johnson (GA) vice, and there were—yeas 235, nays Pocan ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- Castro (TX) Johnson, E. B. Polis mand for the previous question passes the 193, not voting 2, as follows: Chu, Judy Jones Price (NC) control of the resolution to the opposition’’ Cicilline Kaptur Quigley [Roll No. 252] Clark (MA) Keating in order to offer an amendment. On March Raskin Clarke (NY) Kelly (IL) 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- YEAS—235 Rice (NY) Clay Kennedy Abraham Gohmert Olson Richmond fered a rule resolution. The House defeated Cleaver Khanna Aderholt Goodlatte Palazzo Rosen the previous question and a member of the Clyburn Kihuen Allen Gosar Palmer opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, Cohen Kildee Roybal-Allard Amash Gowdy Paulsen asking who was entitled to recognition. Connolly Kilmer Ruiz Amodei Granger Pearce Conyers Kind Ruppersberger Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R.-Illinois) said: Arrington Graves (GA) Perry Cooper Krishnamoorthi Rush ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Babin Graves (LA) Pittenger Correa Kuster (NH) Ryan (OH) the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Bacon Graves (MO) Poe (TX) Costa Langevin Sa´ nchez Banks (IN) Griffith Poliquin gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Courtney Larsen (WA) Sarbanes Barletta Grothman Posey yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Crist Larson (CT) Schakowsky Barr Guthrie Ratcliffe the first recognition.’’ Crowley Lawrence Schiff Barton Harper Reed The Republican majority may say ‘‘the Cuellar Lawson (FL) Schneider Bergman Harris Reichert vote on the previous question is simply a Cummings Lee Schrader Biggs Hartzler Renacci Davis (CA) Levin Scott (VA) vote on whether to proceed to an immediate Bilirakis Hensarling Rice (SC) Davis, Danny Lewis (GA) vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] Bishop (MI) Herrera Beutler Roby Scott, David DeFazio Lieu, Ted has no substantive legislative or policy im- Bishop (UT) Hice, Jody B. Roe (TN) Serrano DeGette Lipinski Black Higgins (LA) Rogers (AL) Sewell (AL) plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what Delaney Loebsack Blackburn Hill Rogers (KY) Shea-Porter they have always said. Listen to the Repub- DeLauro Lofgren Blum Holding Rohrabacher Sherman lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative DelBene Lowenthal Bost Hollingsworth Rokita Sinema Process in the United States House of Rep- Demings Lowey Brady (TX) Hudson Rooney, Francis Sires DeSaulnier Lujan Grisham, resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s Brat Huizenga Rooney, Thomas Slaughter Deutch M. how the Republicans describe the previous Bridenstine Hultgren J. Smith (WA) Dingell Luja´ n, Ben Ray question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- Brooks (AL) Hunter Ros-Lehtinen Soto Doggett Lynch Brooks (IN) Hurd Roskam Speier though it is generally not possible to amend Doyle, Michael Maloney, Buchanan Issa Ross Suozzi the rule because the majority Member con- F. Carolyn B. Buck Jenkins (KS) Rothfus Swalwell (CA) trolling the time will not yield for the pur- Ellison Maloney, Sean Bucshon Jenkins (WV) Rouzer Takano pose of offering an amendment, the same re- Eshoo Matsui Budd Johnson (LA) Royce (CA) Thompson (CA) Espaillat McCollum sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- Burgess Johnson (OH) Russell Thompson (MS) Esty (CT) McEachin vious question on the rule . . . When the mo- Byrne Johnson, Sam Rutherford Evans McGovern Titus tion for the previous question is defeated, Calvert Jordan Sanford Foster McNerney Tonko Carter (GA) Joyce (OH) Scalise control of the time passes to the Member Frankel (FL) Meeks Torres Carter (TX) Katko Schweikert who led the opposition to ordering the pre- Fudge Meng Tsongas Chabot Kelly (MS) Scott, Austin vious question. That Member, because he Gabbard Moore Vargas Chaffetz Kelly (PA) Sensenbrenner then controls the time, may offer an amend- Gallego Moulton Veasey Cheney King (IA) Sessions Garamendi Murphy (FL) Vela ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of Coffman King (NY) Shimkus Gonzalez (TX) Nadler Vela´ zquez amendment.’’ Cole Kinzinger Shuster Gottheimer Napolitano Visclosky In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House Collins (GA) Knight Simpson Green, Al Neal Walz of Representatives, the subchapter titled Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Smith (MO) Green, Gene Nolan Wasserman Comer Labrador Smith (NE) ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal Grijalva Norcross Schultz Comstock LaHood Smith (NJ) to order the previous question on such a rule Gutie´rrez O’Halleran Waters, Maxine Conaway LaMalfa Smith (TX) [a special rule reported from the Committee Hanabusa O’Rourke Watson Coleman Cook Lamborn Smucker Hastings Pallone Welch on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- Costello (PA) Lance Stefanik Heck Panetta Wilson (FL) ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- Cramer Latta Stewart Higgins (NY) Pascrell Yarmuth tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- Crawford Lewis (MN) Stivers jection of the motion for the previous ques- Culberson LoBiondo Taylor NOT VOTING—2 tion on a resolution reported from the Com- Curbelo (FL) Long Tenney mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- Davidson Loudermilk Thompson (PA) Engel Newhouse ber leading the opposition to the previous Davis, Rodney Love Thornberry Denham Lucas Tiberi question, who may offer a proper amendment Dent Luetkemeyer Tipton b 1055 or motion and who controls the time for de- DeSantis MacArthur Trott bate thereon.’’ DesJarlais Marchant Turner Messrs. LAWSON of Florida and Clearly, the vote on the previous question Diaz-Balart Marino Upton FOSTER changed their vote from on a rule does have substantive policy impli- Donovan Marshall Valadao ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ Duffy Massie Wagner cations. It is one of the only available tools Messrs. AMODEI and DIAZ-BALART for those who oppose the Republican major- Duncan (SC) Mast Walberg ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- Duncan (TN) McCarthy Walden changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to Dunn McCaul Walker ‘‘yea.’’ native views the opportunity to offer an al- Emmer McClintock Walorski ternative plan. Estes (KS) McHenry Walters, Mimi So the previous question was ordered. Mr. COLLINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield Farenthold McKinley Weber (TX) The result of the vote was announced back the balance of my time, and I Faso McMorris Webster (FL) as above recorded. move the previous question on the res- Ferguson Rodgers Wenstrup Fitzpatrick McSally Westerman The SPEAKER pro tempore. The olution. Fleischmann Meadows Williams question is on the resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Flores Meehan Wilson (SC) question is on ordering the previous Fortenberry Messer Wittman The question was taken; and the question. Foxx Mitchell Womack Speaker pro tempore announced that Franks (AZ) Moolenaar Woodall the ayes appeared to have it. The question was taken; and the Frelinghuysen Mooney (WV) Yoder Speaker pro tempore announced that Gaetz Mullin Yoho RECORDED VOTE Gallagher Murphy (PA) Young (AK) the ayes appeared to have it. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I de- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, on Garrett Noem Young (IA) Gibbs Nunes Zeldin mand a recorded vote. that I demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. NAYS—193 A recorded vote was ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Adams Beyer Boyle, Brendan The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, Aguilar Bishop (GA) F. 5-minute vote. this 15-minute vote on ordering the Barraga´ n Blumenauer Brady (PA) The vote was taken by electronic de- Bass Brown (MD) previous question will be followed by 5- Blunt Rochester vice, and there were—ayes 235, noes 192, Beatty Bonamici Brownley (CA) minute votes on: Bera Bustos not voting 3, as follows:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.034 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4138 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 [Roll No. 253] DeFazio Krishnamoorthi Quigley Castro (TX) Huffman Rogers (KY) DeGette Kuster (NH) Raskin Chabot Hultgren Rooney, Francis AYES—235 Delaney Langevin Rice (NY) Chaffetz Hunter Rooney, Thomas Abraham Gohmert Olson DeLauro Larsen (WA) Richmond Cheney Hurd J. Aderholt Goodlatte Palazzo DelBene Larson (CT) Rosen Chu, Judy Johnson (LA) Ros-Lehtinen Allen Gosar Palmer Demings Lawrence Roybal-Allard Clay Johnson, Sam Rosen Amash Gowdy Paulsen DeSaulnier Lawson (FL) Ruiz Cole Joyce (OH) Roskam Amodei Granger Pearce Deutch Lee Ruppersberger Collins (NY) Kaptur Ross Arrington Graves (GA) Perry Dingell Levin Rush Comer Katko Rothfus Babin Graves (LA) Pittenger Doggett Lewis (GA) Ryan (OH) Comstock Kelly (MS) Royce (CA) Bacon Graves (MO) Poe (TX) Doyle, Michael Lieu, Ted Sa´ nchez Conaway Kelly (PA) Ruiz F. Lipinski Banks (IN) Griffith Poliquin Sarbanes Cook Kildee Ruppersberger Ellison Loebsack Barletta Grothman Posey Schakowsky Cooper King (IA) Russell Eshoo Lofgren Courtney King (NY) Barr Guthrie Ratcliffe Schiff Rutherford Espaillat Lowenthal Cramer Kuster (NH) Barton Harper Reed Schneider Scalise Esty (CT) Lowey Bergman Harris Reichert Schrader Crawford Kustoff (TN) Evans Lujan Grisham, Schneider Biggs Hartzler Renacci Scott (VA) Culberson Labrador Foster M. Cummings LaMalfa Schweikert Bilirakis Hensarling Rice (SC) Scott, David Scott (VA) Bishop (MI) Herrera Beutler Frankel (FL) Luja´ n, Ben Ray Curbelo (FL) Lamborn Roby Serrano Scott, Austin Bishop (UT) Hice, Jody B. Roe (TN) Fudge Lynch Davidson Latta Sewell (AL) Scott, David Black Higgins (LA) Rogers (AL) Gabbard Maloney, Davis (CA) Lewis (MN) Shea-Porter Sensenbrenner Blackburn Hill Rogers (KY) Gallego Carolyn B. Davis, Danny Lipinski Sherman Serrano Blum Holding Rohrabacher Garamendi Maloney, Sean DelBene Long Sinema Sessions Bost Hollingsworth Rokita Gonzalez (TX) Matsui Demings Loudermilk Sires Shea-Porter Brady (TX) Hudson Rooney, Francis Gottheimer McCollum Dent Love Green, Al McEachin Slaughter DesJarlais Lowenthal Sherman Brat Huizenga Rooney, Thomas Smith (WA) Bridenstine Hultgren J. Green, Gene McGovern Deutch Lucas Shimkus Grijalva McNerney Soto Dingell Luetkemeyer Shuster Brooks (AL) Hunter Ros-Lehtinen Speier Brooks (IN) Hurd Gutie´rrez Meeks Doggett Lujan Grisham, Simpson Roskam Suozzi Buchanan Issa Ross Hanabusa Meng Donovan M. Sinema Swalwell (CA) Buck Jenkins (KS) Rothfus Hastings Moore Duffy Maloney, Smith (MO) Takano Bucshon Jenkins (WV) Rouzer Heck Moulton Duncan (SC) Carolyn B. Smith (NE) Thompson (CA) Budd Johnson (LA) Royce (CA) Higgins (NY) Murphy (FL) Duncan (TN) Marchant Smith (NJ) Thompson (MS) Burgess Johnson (OH) Russell Himes Nadler Dunn Marino Smith (TX) Titus Byrne Johnson, Sam Rutherford Hoyer Napolitano Ellison Massie Smith (WA) Tonko Calvert Jordan Sanford Huffman Neal Eshoo McCarthy Smucker Torres Carter (GA) Joyce (OH) Scalise Jackson Lee Nolan Estes (KS) McCaul Speier Tsongas Carter (TX) Katko Schweikert Jayapal Norcross Esty (CT) McClintock Stefanik Vargas Chabot Kelly (MS) Scott, Austin Jeffries O’Halleran Evans McCollum Stewart Veasey Chaffetz Kelly (PA) Sensenbrenner Johnson (GA) O’Rourke Farenthold McHenry Stivers Vela Cheney King (IA) Sessions Johnson, E. B. Pallone Ferguson McMorris Suozzi Vela´ zquez Coffman King (NY) Shimkus Jones Panetta Fleischmann Rodgers Takano Visclosky Cole Kinzinger Shuster Kaptur Pascrell Fortenberry McNerney Taylor Walz Collins (GA) Knight Simpson Keating Payne Foster McSally Thornberry Kelly (IL) Perlmutter Wasserman Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Smith (MO) Frelinghuysen Meadows Tiberi Kennedy Peters Schultz Comer Labrador Smith (NE) Gabbard Meeks Titus Khanna Peterson Waters, Maxine Garamendi Meng Comstock LaHood Smith (NJ) Vela´ zquez Kihuen Pingree Watson Coleman Garrett Messer Conaway LaMalfa Smith (TX) Wagner Kildee Pocan Welch Gibbs Mitchell Cook Lamborn Smucker Walberg Kilmer Polis Wilson (FL) Goodlatte Moolenaar Costello (PA) Lance Stefanik Walden Kind Price (NC) Yarmuth Gosar Mooney (WV) Cramer Latta Stewart Walker Crawford Lewis (MN) Stivers Gottheimer Mullin NOT VOTING—3 Gowdy Murphy (PA) Walorski Culberson LoBiondo Taylor Walters, Mimi Engel Newhouse Pelosi Granger Nadler Curbelo (FL) Long Tenney Walz Davidson Loudermilk Graves (MO) Noem Thompson (PA) Wasserman Davis, Rodney Love 1103 Griffith Nunes Thornberry b Schultz Denham Lucas Tiberi Grothman O’Rourke Weber (TX) Dent Luetkemeyer Tipton Mr. SUOZZI changed his vote from Guthrie Olson Webster (FL) DeSantis MacArthur Trott ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Harper Palazzo Wenstrup DesJarlais Marchant Turner Harris Palmer So the resolution was agreed to. Westerman Diaz-Balart Marino Upton Hartzler Pearce The result of the vote was announced Williams Donovan Marshall Valadao Hastings Perlmutter Duffy Massie Wagner as above recorded. Heck Pingree Wilson (SC) Duncan (SC) Mast Walberg A motion to reconsider was laid on Hensarling Pocan Wittman Womack Duncan (TN) McCarthy Walden the table. Herrera Beutler Polis Dunn McCaul Walker Hice, Jody B. Posey Yarmuth Emmer McClintock Walorski f Higgins (LA) Quigley Yoho Estes (KS) McHenry Walters, Mimi Himes Roby Young (IA) Farenthold McKinley Weber (TX) THE JOURNAL Hollingsworth Roe (TN) Zeldin Faso McMorris Webster (FL) Ferguson Rodgers Wenstrup The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- NAYS—186 Fitzpatrick McSally Westerman finished business is the question on Adams Clyburn Frankel (FL) Fleischmann Meadows Williams Aguilar Coffman Franks (AZ) Flores Meehan Wilson (SC) agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of the Journal, on which the yeas and Amash Cohen Fudge Fortenberry Messer Wittman Barraga´ n Collins (GA) Gaetz Foxx Mitchell Womack nays were ordered. Bass Connolly Gallagher Franks (AZ) Moolenaar Woodall The question is on the Speaker’s ap- Beatty Conyers Gallego Frelinghuysen Mooney (WV) Yoder proval of the Journal. Bera Correa Gonzalez (TX) Gaetz Mullin Yoho Bergman Costa Graves (GA) Gallagher Murphy (PA) Young (AK) This will be a 5-minute vote. Beyer Costello (PA) Graves (LA) Garrett Noem Young (IA) The vote was taken by electronic de- Bishop (GA) Crist Green, Al Gibbs Nunes Zeldin vice, and there were—yeas 233, nays Bishop (MI) Crowley Green, Gene 186, answered ‘‘present’’ 2, not voting 9, Blum Cuellar Grijalva NOES—192 Blunt Rochester Davis, Rodney Gutie´rrez Adams Brownley (CA) Cleaver as follows: Bost DeFazio Hanabusa Aguilar Bustos Clyburn [Roll No. 254] Boyle, Brendan DeGette Higgins (NY) Barraga´ n Butterfield Cohen F. Delaney Hill Bass Capuano Connolly YEAS—233 Brady (PA) Denham Holding Beatty Carbajal Conyers Abraham Bilirakis Brown (MD) Brownley (CA) DeSantis Hoyer Bera Ca´ rdenas Cooper Allen Bishop (UT) Buchanan Capuano DeSaulnier Hudson Beyer Carson (IN) Correa Amodei Black Buck Carbajal Diaz-Balart Huizenga Bishop (GA) Cartwright Costa Arrington Blackburn Bucshon Ca´ rdenas Doyle, Michael Issa Blumenauer Castor (FL) Courtney Babin Blumenauer Budd Carson (IN) F. Jackson Lee Blunt Rochester Castro (TX) Crist Bacon Bonamici Burgess Carter (GA) Emmer Jayapal Bonamici Chu, Judy Crowley Banks (IN) Brady (TX) Bustos Castor (FL) Espaillat Jeffries Boyle, Brendan Cicilline Cuellar Barletta Brat Byrne Cicilline Faso Jenkins (KS) F. Clark (MA) Cummings Barr Bridenstine Calvert Clark (MA) Fitzpatrick Jenkins (WV) Brady (PA) Clarke (NY) Davis (CA) Barton Brooks (AL) Carter (TX) Clarke (NY) Flores Johnson (GA) Brown (MD) Clay Davis, Danny Biggs Brooks (IN) Cartwright Cleaver Foxx Johnson (OH)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.033 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4139 Johnson, E. B. McEachin Ryan (OH) SECTION 1. ELIMINATION OF NON-APPLICATION than the Senate Committee on Finance Jones McGovern Sa´ nchez OF CERTAIN STATE WAIVER PROVI- or the Senate Committee on Health, Jordan McKinley Sanford SIONS TO MEMBERS OF CONGRESS Keating Moore Sarbanes AND CONGRESSIONAL STAFF. Education, Labor, and Pensions can re- Kelly (IL) Moulton Schakowsky If the American Health Care Act is en- ceive a jurisdictional referral. For ex- Kennedy Murphy (FL) Schiff acted, effective as if included in the enact- ample, if we were to cross-reference Khanna Napolitano Schrader Kihuen Neal ment of such Act, section 2701(b)(5)(A)(ii) of multi-State plans established by the Sewell (AL) the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. Kilmer Norcross Sires Affordable Care Act, we would get a re- 300gg(b)(5)(A)(ii)), as added by subsection (a) Kind O’Halleran Slaughter ferral to the Senate Homeland Security Kinzinger Pallone Soto of section 136 of the American Health Care and Governmental Affairs Committee Knight Panetta Act (relating to permitting States to waive Swalwell (CA) because those plans are under the Of- Krishnamoorthi Pascrell Tenney certain ACA requirements to encourage fair LaHood Paulsen Thompson (CA) health insurance premiums), is amended by fice of Personnel Management. Lance Payne Thompson (MS) Langevin Perry striking ‘‘1312(d)(3)(D),’’. b 1115 Thompson (PA) Larsen (WA) Peters Tipton The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Larson (CT) Peterson So let’s be clear, congressional Torres ant to House Resolution 308, the gen- Lawrence Pittenger healthcare operates as a small group Lawson (FL) Poe (TX) Trott tleman from Texas (Mr. BURGESS) and plan within the District of Columbia’s Lee Poliquin Tsongas the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Turner SHOP Exchange. This was a decision Levin Price (NC) PALLONE) each will control 30 minutes. Lewis (GA) Raskin Upton that was made by the Obama adminis- Lieu, Ted Ratcliffe Valadao The Chair recognizes the gentleman tration. LoBiondo Reed Vargas from Texas. Veasey So for waivers impacting the essen- Loebsack Reichert GENERAL LEAVE Lofgren Renacci Vela tial health benefits of age rating, Lowey Rice (NY) Visclosky Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I ask which impacts both the individual and Luja´ n, Ben Ray Richmond Waters, Maxine unanimous consent that all Members small group markets, Members of Con- Lynch Rogers (AL) Watson Coleman may have 5 legislative days in which to gress and our staffs would be treated MacArthur Rohrabacher Welch Maloney, Sean Rokita Wilson (FL) revise and extend their remarks and in- the same. As far as community rating, Marshall Rouzer Woodall sert extraneous material on H.R. 2192. this impacts only the individual mar- Mast Roybal-Allard Yoder The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ket, so no group plans, including Mem- Matsui Rush Young (AK) objection to the request of the gen- bers of Congress or our staffs, would be ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—2 tleman from Texas? impacted. Rice (SC) Tonko There was no objection. Even so, in an attempt to be crystal Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield NOT VOTING—9 clear, today we are passing a bill, out myself such time as I may consume. of fairness and transparency, to ensure Aderholt Engel Newhouse Butterfield Gohmert Nolan Mr. Speaker, after 7 years, we have that Congress operates under the same DeLauro Meehan Pelosi heard the stories from our constitu- laws as private citizens, a principle ents, from our patients, from our that both Republicans and Democrats b 1110 friends, from our families who have should support. So the Journal was approved. suffered under the Affordable Care Act. My thanks to Representative The result of the vote was announced Today, we will have a chance to vote MCSALLY for her leadership on this as above recorded. on a plan that will rescue and revi- issue. Her bill helps deliver us a step Stated for: talize the market and lower costs and closer to fulfilling our promise. Today Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- increase flexibility for patients to we will fulfill our promise to provide ably detained. Had I been present, I would choose and keep a health insurance relief from the higher costs and the have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 254. plan that works for them and their dwindling choices for patients under family. However, before we can do that, the Affordable Care Act. Today we will f we have to pass a bill that will ensure repeal and replace ObamaCare with a MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE that Members of Congress and their better solution. staffs are treated the same way as the I reserve the balance of my time. A message from the Senate by Ms. rest of America. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield Curtis, one of its clerks, announced So let’s be clear. We firmly believe myself 2 minutes. that the Senate has agreed to without that Members of Congress should live I remind my colleague from Texas amendment a joint resolution of the by the same rules as everyone else, pe- that his vote for the healthcare bill House of the following title: riod. The bill we are considering now will take away protections for 4,536,000 H.J. Res. 66. Joint resolution disapproving will make a simple technical correc- people with preexisting conditions in the rule submitted by the Department of tion to ensure that the American Texas. Labor relating to savings arrangements es- Health Care Act and its amendments Mr. Speaker, I heard my colleague tablished by States for non-governmental apply equally to everyone when signed employees. from Texas talk about repeal and re- into law. place. This is the myth, the hoax, that f Over the last several months, we the Republicans and the President are have worked thoughtfully and thor- trying to play on the American people. PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE ACT oughly with our colleagues in the Sen- I assure you this is repeal. There is no AMENDMENT ate to achieve our shared goal of re- replacement. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, pursu- pealing and replacing ObamaCare. The people are going to lose their in- ant to House Resolution 308, I call up Throughout these discussions, we have surance. They are going to pay more. the bill (H.R. 2192) to amend the Public come to better appreciate and better They are going to have lousy insurance Health Service Act to eliminate the understand the other Chamber’s rec- because they are not going to have any non-application of certain State waiver onciliation limitations. As a result, we kind of protections. provisions to Members of Congress and have drafted the American Health Care We passed the Affordable Care Act congressional staff, and ask for its im- Act with constant awareness of what because the States were not doing the mediate consideration in the House. the slightest misstep may mean for the right thing. People couldn’t afford in- The Clerk read the title of the bill. legislation’s privileged status or that surance. They couldn’t pay for a pre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. (Mr. 51-vote threshold in the other body. mium. They were too high. SIMPSON). Pursuant to House Resolu- Some might say it is easier for a So what did we do? We expanded tion 308, the bill is considered read. camel to go through the eye of a needle Medicaid, and we provided generous The text of the bill is as follows: than to draft House policy to Senate subsidies for those people who needed H.R. 2192 procedure, but we are confident that it. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- we have achieved that challenging feat. We also knew, under the old system resentatives of the United States of America in One of the limitations we have come where the States were in charge, that Congress assembled, to respect is that no committee other people got lousy insurance if they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.044 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4140 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 could even find it. Sometimes they pass that applies to our constituents and as she said in her own words: ‘‘I didn’t have hospitalization, so we in- must also apply equally to Members of paid 50 percent of my income for some- sisted there had to be a package that Congress. Individuals who are stewards thing I am forced to buy and cannot included preexisting conditions. of the public trust must abide by the use.’’ We also said that, you know, if you rules that they make. My bill, H.R. In Kentucky, there are many coun- were paying a lot for your copays or 2192, will ensure that Congress abides ties with just one health insurer on the your deductibles, we are going to put by the laws they pass and is treated no exchange. That is not right. Affordable limits on those things as well. And we differently than other hardworking health care means having real access put limits also on how much you can Americans. to health care when you need it. charge, what we call ‘‘community rat- Regardless of your vote on the AHCA, ObamaCare reduces access. It is not ing.’’ this is a bill that each and every single there, when they need it, for many Now, what are the Republicans doing Member of Congress should support. Americans. here today? They are getting rid of all Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- I urge my colleagues to support the that. They want to go back to the old mind my colleague from Arizona that American Health Care Act. days. And when they tell you that her vote for this bill could increase pre- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- somehow they are going to be able to miums for people with breast cancer in mind my colleague from Kentucky that do this, the reason they can’t do any- Arizona by $42,250. his vote for the healthcare bill will thing is because they repeal most of I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentle- take away protections for 881,000 peo- the pay-fors that pay for the subsidies woman from California (Ms. ESHOO). ple with preexisting conditions in Ken- that pay for the Affordable Care Act. Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I think tucky. So when they tell you: Oh, we are that today is yet another sad day here I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman going to give extra money for this, for in the House of Representatives for the from Texas (Mr. GENE GREEN), the high-risk pools or to help the States if people of our country, because what is ranking member of the Health Sub- they decide to have waivers, the bot- being brought forward is the same bill committee. tom line is there is no money left here. that we debated and that went down Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. There is no money to pay for those sub- because of the weight of the problems Speaker, it is appalling what is hap- sidies; there is no money to pay for and the cruelty of that bill. It is the pening today on the House floor. It ap- Medicaid expansion; there is not same thing with a few more poison pears to be: let’s just pass a bill, no enough money to pay for high-risk pills in it. matter what it does or who gets hurt pools because they have repealed the People are going to have to pay high- with it. underlying pay-fors that we use to pay er premiums and deductibles, and it is TrumpCare is nothing more than bro- for the Affordable Care Act. going to increase what comes out of ken promises and mean-spirited policy. What they are doing now is going their pocket; there is going to be less It would mean higher healthcare costs back to the old system, the Wild West coverage; 24 million people will lose for more than 24 million hardworking of the States. They are allowing States their coverage—that remains in this Americans losing their health cov- to waiver the essential benefits pack- bill—and key protections are gutted, erage, key protections are gutted, older age. They are saying to States that American people: emergency rooms, Americans are hung out to dry, the end they can charge whatever they want maternity care, opioid, mental health of Medicaid as we know it, and cuts in for the insurance because they got rid care, a string of things that you want Medicare. of community ratings. in your insurance coverage, a crushing If TrumpCare passes, Americans with The SPEAKER pro tempore. The age tax for seniors. preexisting conditions could be pushed time of the gentleman has expired. Now, there is a real hypocrisy here. off their insurance and sent in the Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield Every single Member of Congress has high-risk pools that are not affordable. myself another 15 seconds to say this: been enrolled in the Affordable Care High-risk insurance pools do not work Do not buy into this hoax. There is no Act. I want to know which one of you when everyone in the pool is a high money left. They want to go back to dropped out of it. It was good enough risk. I was a State legislator when we the old system, and the old system for you—one person, great. Two people, did that. You have to have high-risk stunk. What we did was correct the big deal. It was good enough for you, pools that share the wealth, so to problems of the old system. So don’t but it is not good enough for your con- speak. believe this cruel hoax. stituents. People will be left with soaring costs, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of And you know what? Who is standing worse coverage, and rationed care. It is my time. with you? Not the doctors in our coun- a frightening future where millions of Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 try, not the AARP to seniors, not Americans who need affordable, de- minutes to the gentlewoman from Ari- nurses, not the cancer association, not pendable health care are left out in the zona (Ms. MCSALLY), the author of the anyone. This bill violates the American cold. bill. people. There is an obvious, irresponsible Ms. MCSALLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- reason why this vote is being rammed today in support of my bill, H.R. 2192, bers are reminded to direct their re- through without even a Congressional a measure that eliminates double marks to the Chair. Budget Office estimate or an oppor- standards by preventing Members of Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 tunity for Members to even know what Congress from being exempt from the minute to the gentleman from Ken- is in it. They don’t want people fig- State waiver provisions of the Amer- tucky (Mr. GUTHRIE), the vice chair- uring out the real-world consequences ican Health Care Act, as amended. man of the Health Subcommittee on and the devastation it means to our Due to very arcane Senate procedural Energy and Commerce. American families. History will not be rules within the budget reconciliation Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise kind to the people who support this process, the MacArthur amendment to today to urge my colleagues to support awful bill. the American Health Care Act does not the American Health Care Act. I urge my colleagues to do what is and cannot apply to Members of Con- A constituent of mine from Kentucky right and vote ‘‘no.’’ gress. To address this, I have intro- personally reached out to share her Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 duced this simple, standalone, two- story. Under ObamaCare, the cost of minute to the gentleman from Texas page bill that would appeal the exemp- her family’s monthly premium rose to (Mr. OLSON). tion for Members of Congress should over $1,000 with a deductible of over Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, the Senate the American Health Care Act become $12,000, in total, almost half her in- never quits. When ObamaCare was law. come. When she fell and broke three passed in 2010, the Senate Democrats In the military, the same code of con- ribs, she couldn’t afford to go to the refused to use ObamaCare for their per- duct and standards apply to the entire emergency room because of the astro- sonal insurance. Most Americans know chain of command. Now, in my role as nomical deductible. She suffered for that what is good for the goose is good a lawmaker, I believe that any law we weeks until as she could afford care; for the gander. My staff, my family,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.054 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4141 and I have been on ObamaCare since American Health Care Act and fixes a cally would allow States to waive three day one. technical error made to comply with of ObamaCare’s costliest mandates. Let Incredibly, the Senate is at it again. the Senate rules. me stress that again. It would allow They don’t want the American Health In our country, lawmakers are not States—not require States; it would Care Act to apply to them because it is above the law. Elected officials and the allow States to waive three of not right. They are special, and so they people we represent should have the ObamaCare’s costliest mandates, es- put a clause to exempt Congress from same health care, period. sential health benefits, age ratings, the American Health Care Act so they As an original cosponsor of H.R. 2192, and community rating. could filibuster the healthcare bill. I believe this is common sense. It is In waiving these Federal mandates, That dog didn’t hunt in 2010; it ain’t straightforward legislation, and it is health insurers would not be allowed to hunting in 2017. If it is good for the necessary as a companion bill to the discriminate by gender or preexisting American people, our bosses, it is good American Health Care Act. condition, and no one would be denied for their servants, Congress, us. b 1130 coverage, period. I urge my colleagues to be true pub- Here is how it works: a State may lic servants. Vote for H.R. 2192. It is really quite simple: Congress apply to waive essential health benefits Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- should live by the same laws it creates. or to increase the age rating ratio from mind my colleague from Texas that his When the American Health Care Act the bill’s underlying 5-to-1 ratio. They vote for this bill could increase pre- becomes law, Members of Congress and may also change the way individuals miums for people with diabetes in staff will have the same health care as who have not maintained continuous Texas by $5,100. the American people. I urge passage of coverage are charged for their I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentle- H.R. 2192, in conjunction with the healthcare plan, but only if the State woman from Colorado (Ms. DEGETTE). American Health Care Act. has a risk-sharing program in place, Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. Speaker, the Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- like the Federal Invisible Risk Sharing American Health Care Act was pulled mind my colleague from Florida that Program established by the Palmer- from the House floor in March because his vote for the healthcare bill will Schweikert amendment. the American people realized it was a take away protections for 3,116,000 peo- In order to receive a waiver, a State deeply flawed bill. That bill would have ple with preexisting conditions in Flor- must explain to the Secretary of ripped healthcare coverage away from ida. Health and Human Services how the 24 million of our constituents. Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to program will reduce average premiums For those lucky enough to maintain the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. for patients, increase enrollment for coverage, the bill would have mas- MICHAEL F. DOYLE). residents, stabilize the State’s health sively raised premiums, deductibles, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- insurance market, stabilize premiums and out-of-pocket costs. The crushing vania. Mr. Speaker, for the past 7 years for individuals living with preexisting age tax in this bill would force older we have had 62 votes to repeal the Af- conditions, or increase the patient’s adults to pay astronomically high pre- fordable Care Act, but Republicans healthcare options. miums. have never once put a plan on the floor It is important to note that in pro- So what did the majority do in the for the American people. Well, today, viding assistance to reduce premiums last 6 weeks? They made the bill worse. we all get a chance to go on record of or other out-of-pocket costs, for indi- The MacArthur amendment lets where we stand on this bill, this viduals who may be subject to an in- States opt out of the essential benefits shameful, cruel bill. crease in their monthly premiums be- of the ACA. Not only would this jeop- Here are the facts: 24 million Ameri- cause they reside in a State with an ap- ardize insurance availability for the cans are going to lose their insurance if proved waiver, have a preexisting con- one-third of Americans who have pre- this bill becomes law. Over $839 billion dition, are uninsured because they existing conditions, it would let insur- gets cut out of the Medicaid program. have not maintained continuous cov- ance companies deny coverage alto- The essential benefit package in erage and they purchase health insur- gether for maternity, for emergency States, wiped out. In my State, it is ance on the individual market, there room, for mental health, and for other taking care of people with mental ill- will be $138 billion to assist with pre- essential benefits. And because the ness and opioid addiction; gone. This mium assistance. MacArthur amendment eliminates takes $117 billion out of the Medicare Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of community ratings, everybody’s insur- trust fund. my time. ance costs would skyrocket. This is a healthcare bill—this is real- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield I am going to tell you something. My ly a tax bill masquerading as a 11⁄2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Republican colleagues are going to be healthcare bill. The plan here is to Illinois (Ms. SCHAKOWSKY). really, really sorry that they rushed take this money out of the healthcare Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, un- this bill to the floor before they got an system and use it for tax cuts. That is derstand this: the Republicans planned amended CBO score. The reason is, what this bill is going to do. to exempt Members of Congress from when we do get this—and make no mis- This creates a survival-of-the-fittest the provisions of TrumpCare until they take, we will get this—they are going health care for America. If you are got caught. to find out that many more millions of young, if you are healthy, if you are So here are five numbers that show people besides the 24 million people, wealthy, this bill is for you; you are just how deadly and dangerous the Re- originally, who are going to lose their going to do okay. But if you are old, if publican bill is: insurance are going to be shocked to you are sick, if you are poor, there is Twenty-four million is the number of wake up to find out, if this TrumpCare no coverage in this bill for you. children, adults, and veterans whose bill passes, many millions more will If you have a young child with can- health insurance will be ripped away. lose their coverage. cer, guess what, those benefits aren’t $880 billion is the size of the cut to I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on this poorly con- going to be paid. You are going to run Medicaid, threatening health care and ceived legislation. out of benefits. long-term care for 74 million people: Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 These high-risk pools are a sham. children, pregnant women, the elderly, minute to the gentleman from Florida They are not adequately funded. This and the disabled. (Mr. BILIRAKIS), a valuable member of bill must be defeated. The American $600 billion is the tax cut that goes to the Health Subcommittee on the En- people will remember who votes for millionaires and billionaires and cor- ergy and Commerce Committee. this bill today. porations. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 758 percent is the premium increase a today in support of H.R. 2192 to ensure myself 2 minutes. 64-year-old making $26,000 a year will Members of Congress and staff are not Mr. Speaker, I wish to now speak to pay because of the Republican age tax. exempt from the American Health Care the underlying MacArthur amendment Seventeen percent is the percent of Act. Making good on our word, this that the McSally bill is here to modify. Americans who supported TrumpCare legislation will be passed alongside the The MacArthur amendment specifi- before they made it worse.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.056 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4142 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 The Republicans’ attempt to improve You know and I know this bill will raise costs for families, penalize people TrumpCare is like trying to douse a not see the light of day in the Senate. nearing retirement with an age tax, dumpster fire with gasoline. This bill is This is a political stunt to save face and rip coverage away from millions of a disaster, and anyone who votes for it with your rightwing base. You know it Americans. does so at their extreme peril. The and we know it. And if that wasn’t bad enough, this American people are watching, and If this wasn’t so serious, affecting the revised TrumpCare bill guts protec- they will not forget. economy and the affordability of insur- tions for people with preexisting condi- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I would ance, I would say just go on and do it, tions; people like Cameron, who was di- point out that within the State of Illi- because you will lose your opportunity agnosed with cancer at 24 years old. nois, there were eight plans in 2015. to serve in this House and you will ul- Because of the Affordable Care Act, he There are five plans in 2017 with a 57 timately lose the majority. was able to access coverage and attend percent increase in premiums. Don’t do it. Forget about politics. graduate school. Now, of course, he has Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Think about the 24 million Americans a preexisting condition. gentleman from Ohio (Mr. JOHNSON), a who will not be able to afford health This is personal for Cameron and mil- valuable member of the Energy and insurance coverage. lions more in this country, and they Commerce Committee. That is why the American Medical are not going to be silent as Repub- Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, Association, AARP, American Nurses licans rush this legislation through. I thank the gentleman for giving me Association, and all of the other stake- Mr. Speaker, lives are on the line. I time to speak up. holder groups have pleaded with you. urge my Republican colleagues to have I, too, agree that Members of Con- They have called your office. They the courage to vote ‘‘no’’ on this legis- gress should be subject to the same have written you letters. They have lation. rules and laws that the American peo- written us letters. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ple are. So I support my colleague, Ms. Don’t do it. I ask you to vote ‘‘no’’ on minute to the gentleman from Georgia MCSALLY, in this legislation. this ill-conceived legislation. But, you know, I want to speak to (Mr. CARTER), another valuable mem- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the bigger, broader issue here. My col- ber of the Energy and Commerce Com- tleman and all Members are reminded league from Pennsylvania said: What mittee and a member of the Health to direct their remarks to the Chair. about that family with that kid that Subcommittee. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, directed Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- has cancer? to the Chair, I would just make note of Where was my colleague and the er, I rise today to urge my colleagues the fact in North Carolina, there were friends on the other side of the aisle to support the American Health Care three plans offered in 2015, down to two when ObamaCare resulted in millions Act. plans in 2017, premium increase of 82 of policy cancellations and millions of For the last 7 years, I have watched percent. Americans losing their coverage be- ObamaCare crush the healthcare sys- Mr. Speaker, it is now my pleasure to cause of the broken promises? tem that I worked in for more than 30 Where was my colleague and the yield 1 minute to the gentleman from years. Thanks to ObamaCare, we have Democrats when millions of Americans Michigan (Mr. WALBERG), another an insurance exchange that has with- were forced out of work because of the member of the Energy and Commerce ered to where a third of the counties in job-killing policies of ObamaCare? Committee. our country have only one insurer. At Let me tell you something. The Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, regard- home in Georgia, 96 counties have only American people remembered that, and less of the myths being spun by the one choice on the exchange. That is not that is what happened in 2010. other side of the aisle that refused to a choice. We didn’t hide in a back room to get read 129 pages of a bill, the Affordable ObamaCare has failed, and the Amer- what we are doing today done. We have Care Act is anything but affordable. ican Health Care Act is critical to re- been working on it for 6 years, and we My constituents have been asking for suscitate our healthcare system and are going to get it done today. We are relief from this collapsing law for move it in a direction where patients, going to meet the promises that we years. They can no longer afford to pay families, and doctors are making deci- made to the American people, and more for less; and refusing to act is not sions, not the Federal Government and starting today, ObamaCare is on its an option. bureaucrats sitting behind a desk in way out the door. Under ObamaCare, out-of-pocket ex- Washington. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- penses have skyrocketed not just for The American people need and de- mind my colleague from Ohio that his people on exchanges, but for all pa- serve better, and that is why we must vote for this bill will take away protec- tients. Premium increases are nearly pass the American Health Care Act. tions for 1,919,000 people in Ohio with four times larger than previously pro- This legislation guts ObamaCare and preexisting conditions. jected. rebuilds a system that would deliver Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to Unfortunately, our colleagues on the the choice and control that patients the gentleman from North Carolina other side of the aisle, Mr. Speaker, need and deserve all while ensuring (Mr. BUTTERFIELD). seem content with the current flawed that health insurers will not be allowed Mr. BUTTERFIELD. So you have system which puts the government in to discriminate by gender or pre- been working on it for 6 years. My in- charge of people’s health and promises existing conditions, and no one will be formation is that you posted this bill coverage that is going away. denied coverage, period. at 8 last night. The Congressional Let’s vote to increase choice, lower b 1145 Budget Office has not given it a score. costs, enhance protections, truly cover They have not told the American peo- preexisting conditions, and get Wash- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- ple how much it is going to cost or how ington out of the way so that patients mind my colleague from Georgia that many people it is going to affect. and their doctors are once again at the his vote for the healthcare bill will You have skyrocketed premiums for center of healthcare decisions. take away protections for 1,791,000 peo- hardworking Americans who have pre- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- ple with preexisting conditions in existing conditions, and that is what mind my colleague from Michigan that Georgia. my colleagues need to understand. his vote for this bill could increase pre- Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to If you are an average 40-year-old miums for those who are pregnant in the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. adult with a preexisting condition and Michigan by $13,790 per year. CASTOR), who is the vice ranking mem- have diabetes, it is estimated your pre- Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to ber our committee. miums will rise $400 a month. If you the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, have rheumatoid arthritis, $800 a MATSUI). this bill will be devastating to families month. And heaven forbid if you have Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, Repub- all across America. The Republican bill some preexisting condition involving licans are turning their backs on the rips coverage away from millions of cancer; the numbers just go off of the American people today. There are no Americans. The last projection was 24 chart. guarantees with this bill. This bill will million. They didn’t wait for the new

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.057 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4143 projection, which is going to be much But today we have the chance to and all of the people some of the time, higher. lower premiums, increase competition but you can’t fool all of the people all The Republican bill hurts Medicare, among insurance providers, and im- of the time.’’ This is a sham, and we and it shortens the life of the Medicare prove access to health insurance for all need to vote it down. trust fund just when we have more Americans. We finally have the chance Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 baby boomers retiring and calling on to formally reject an unprecedented minutes to the gentleman from Florida Medicare. It imposes a huge age tax be- government overreach into health care (Mr. DUNN), who is a very valuable cause it makes affordable insurance and take the first step towards giving Member of Congress and a fellow physi- much less affordable if you are about patients control over their own health. cian. age 50 or older. In western New York, this bill will Mr. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, A dirty little secret here that most have even more profound benefits. The once again, in support of the American people have not discussed is the harm amendment that I authored with Rep- Health Care Act. I do this as a doctor it does to the Medicaid guarantee. For resentative JOHN FASO will relieve for the good of my patients. We are over 50 years in America, we have said county governments in New York of a here today to repeal ObamaCare, to that if you are disabled, if you have a $2.3 billion unfunded mandate forced take healthcare decisions away from family member with Alzheimer’s, or if onto county taxpayers by the Governor Washington bureaucrats and give them you have a child with a complex med- of New York and will substantially re- back to the people. ical condition, you are not going to be duce the tax burdens of property own- The American Health Care Act will destitute because your health care is so ers across New York State. This one create a patient-centered system that expensive. That is one of the funda- provision of the American Health Care will lower the cost of health care and mental guarantees of Medicaid for 50 Act will save taxpayers in the eight serve patients. This act eliminates years. They take that away and go to counties that I represent over $470 mil- ObamaCare’s taxes, subsidies, and man- the heart of the medical care that is lion a year. dates. It defunds Planned Parenthood. provided under Medicaid as well. It is This is a game-changer for local New It puts Medicaid on a budget, and it is shameful. York governments and restores a fun- the largest entitlement reform in a But it got worse. As we approach this damental tenet of representative de- generation. Without Washington mandates driv- day, they didn’t have the votes, so they mocracies that the level of government made it worse by going to the heart of ing up costs and limiting access to that makes the decision about spend- the Affordable Care Act which ended care, Americans will have the freedom ing should be responsible for raising discrimination against our neighbors to obtain quality healthcare plans that those funds. I am proud to stand up for with a preexisting condition. fit their needs at a cost they can af- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The western New Yorkers whose voices ford. time of the gentlewoman has expired. have been silenced for too long, and I All this talk about preexisting condi- Ms. CASTOR of Florida. They also am proud to vote for the freedom, fis- tions, this bill provides guaranteed said essential health benefits are not cal responsibility, and local decision- issuance. going to matter. What good is an insur- making this bill guarantees. Let’s not break our promise on re- ance policy if you buy it and you can’t Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues pealing ObamaCare. Let’s be true to go to the emergency room? We have to do the same. our word. We owe it to the people who got to vote ‘‘no’’ on this bill. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- sent us here. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The mind my colleague from New York I support the American Health Care time of the gentlewoman has expired. that his vote for this bill will take Act, Mr. Speaker, and I urge all Mem- Ms. CASTOR of Florida. We have got away protections for 3,031,000 people in bers to do the same. to fight back against this crass power New York with preexisting conditions. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- play that transfers all the wealth in Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to mind my colleague from Florida that this country. Vote ‘‘no.’’ the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. his vote for this bill could increase pre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- CLARKE). miums for people with asthma in Flor- tlewoman is no longer under recogni- Ms. CLARKE of New York. Mr. ida by $4,090 per year. tion. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposi- Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to The Chair would ask Members to re- tion to the American Health Care Act. the gentleman from Massachusetts spect the gavel and the time yielded. This dangerous and destructive bill (Mr. KENNEDY). Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I would leaves 24 million Americans without Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, what point out that, in the State of Florida, coverage. It will cause the uninsured this legislation does on the surface is there were 10 insurance plans available rate for my district in Brooklyn, New very clear: it makes health care more in the individual market in 2015, down York, to skyrocket to over 12 percent expensive. The more you need it—the to 5 plans in 2017, with a 24 percent pre- and leaves over 400,000 Brooklynites in sicker or older or poorer you are—the mium increase. my district without coverage. further out of reach it will be. That is Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the Because of the severe cuts to Med- why doctors, hospitals, nurses, the gentleman from New York (Mr. COL- icaid, this bill will also put people in mental health community, and pa- LINS), who is a very valuable member of the terrible position of having to tients have spoken out, and spoken out the Energy and Commerce Committee. choose between being able to eat, being against this bill. Mr. COLLINS of New York. Mr. able to obtain life-sustaining medica- But this bill doesn’t just cut cov- Speaker, for the past 7 years, the tion, or visiting their doctor. erage and hike premiums all for a tax American people have pleaded with Which one do you, Mr. Speaker, sug- cut for the wealthy. It codifies a their Representatives in Washington to gest they choose? worldview by this administration that repeal ObamaCare. Today, every Mem- For most Americans, Medicaid bene- is dead set on dividing America along ber of this body has the opportunity to fits are not the end goal but, rather, the lines of the god of your prayers, do just that. We have the chance to provide temporary support. For sen- whom you love, where you come from, eliminate excruciating mandates and iors, Medicaid can mean the difference and your fate and fortune. We see it in taxes that are suffocating our economy between nursing home care and dying their tax plan, in their budget cuts, in and marketplaces. alone. immigration policy, and now in health Under ObamaCare, premiums have I urge my colleagues to consider the care, a worldview that scapegoats the increased by over 37 percent since 2014, harmful and deadly real-life impact of struggling and the suffering, that sees one-third of counties in this country this legislation, and I vehemently op- fault in illness, and that rejects the have only one insurance provider, and pose it. I ask that we resist this cyn- most basic universal truth of the 4.7 million Americans were kicked off ical reverse Robin Hood sham that human existence, which is that every the insurance coverage they wanted to takes from the poor and gives to the single one of us one day will be brought maintain despite President Obama’s rich. to our knees by a diagnosis we didn’t promise that, if you like your As President Lincoln said: ‘‘You can expect, a phone call we can’t imagine, healthcare plan, you can keep it. fool some of the people all of the time, and a loss we cannot endure.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.061 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4144 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 So we take care of each other be- American people the truth. They want removed from an earlier version of the cause, but for the grace of God, there to scare the American people to make bill to comply with Senate rules. go I one day, and we hope we will be them believe that this is a bad bill. b 1200 shown that mercy, too. It is the ulti- This is a good bill, and I urge every- mate test of the character of this coun- one to vote ‘‘yes.’’ Removing language in no way try confronting our Chamber today: Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- changes that existing regulation or a not the power we give the strong, but mind my colleague from Virginia that veteran’s eligibility to receive a tax the strength with which we embrace his vote for the healthcare bill will credit. By the way, that is the exact the weak. take away protections for 1,344,000 peo- same language that was in the ACA. I Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, may I ple with preexisting conditions in Vir- repeat that: the American Health Care inquire as to the time remaining. ginia. Act in no way affects a veteran’s abil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to ity to access tax credits. tleman from Texas has 133⁄4 minutes re- the gentleman from California (Mr. I am disturbed that our colleagues in maining. The gentleman from New Jer- PETERS). the minority, Mr. Speaker, would as- sey has 111⁄4 minutes remaining. Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I have sert that it does, in an effort to score Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 seen this bill every step of the way political points against this legisla- minutes to the gentleman from Vir- over the short month we have consid- tion. Fear-mongering has no place in ginia (Mr. GRIFFITH), who is a valuable ered it. I was there for the 26-hour this debate or where America’s vet- member of the Energy and Commerce meeting we had at the Energy and erans are concerned. Committee. Commerce Committee. We didn’t have As chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Mr. GRIFFITH. Mr. Speaker, this bill an analysis from the Congressional Committee, as a medical doctor, and as guarantees access for all. And when I Budget Office then either. If you want a veteran myself, ensuring that vet- say ‘‘access,’’ let me be clear: it is ac- to accuse us of not wanting to know erans’ health care is protected is my cess for all. the facts, that is something that is highest priority in this Congress, and I When you have insurance companies very basic to know. We would like to would not stand for language in this that are pulling out—today we learned have that here. Here we are again on bill or any other bill that would com- Aetna is pulling out of Virginia—and the floor without that analysis. promise a veteran’s ability to access when you have counties across these Through all of that time, the sad care. United States that no longer have any- thing is that we have not heard one Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield one who is willing to provide the real argument for how this bill would to the gentlewoman from California ObamaCare insurance, that is not ac- make health care more affordable and (Ms. LEE) for the purpose of a unani- cess; accessible for families in my district in mous consent request. When you have a situation where San Diego or anywhere in the country. (Ms. LEE asked and was given per- somebody comes up to you at the local Now, the healthcare system isn’t per- mission to revise and extend her re- county fair and says, ‘‘You have got to fect. There are problems with some in- marks.) get me out of ObamaCare. It is killing surance markets because they are not Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to ex- me. It is killing our family’s finances providing the choice they should. So press my opposition to this morally because we have such a high deduct- let’s fix them. But that is not what we bankrupt bill, and I include in the ible, because we have such a high are doing. What we are doing is we are RECORD a letter of opposition from the copay, and my husband is very sick,’’ on the cusp of passing a bill that is op- National Rural Health Association. he may have a piece of paper, Mr. posed by doctors, nurses, hospitals, pa- [From the National Rural Health Speaker, he may have a piece of paper, tients, seniors, and just about every- Association] but it is not really health insurance body because it would make the prob- VOTE NO TO THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT when you can’t really use it without lems in our healthcare system worse, The National Rural Health Association having to sell off what little assets you not better. urges a NO vote on the American Health may have or worry about whether or This is a bill that, if it were to be- Care Act (AHCA). not you can afford to have a roof over come law, would rip health insurance Rural Americans are older, poorer and your head any longer. coverage away from at least 24 million sicker than other populations. In fact, a Jan- This is not working. ObamaCare is Americans. That is the Congressional uary 2017 CDC report pronounced that life expectancies for rural Americans have de- not working. This bill will bring some Budget Office. That is not fake news. clined and the top five chronic diseases are sanity back to the system. It will take That is the truth. worse in rural America. The AHCA does us a couple of years, but the rates of The bill would leave many Americans nothing to improve the health care crisis in insurance will, in fact, come down. with preexisting conditions with pre- rural America, and will lead to poorer rural This business that we keep hearing miums they can’t afford or without health outcomes, more uninsured and an in- that all these people are going to be any coverage at all. crease in the rural hospital closure crisis. without availability of insurance, it is Today’s votes take us one step closer Though some provisions in the modified just fake news. It is not true. This bill to a system where families go bankrupt AHCA bill improve the base bill, NRHA is concerned that the bill still falls woefully does everything that people want it to over an unexpected illness and our short in making health care affordable and do, but it gives them choices—not man- emergency rooms are filled with moth- accessible to rural Americans. For example, dates from the Federal Government, ers once again seeking basic care for the modified bill contains a decrease in the but choices—about their health care. their children. Medical Expense Deduction threshold from I have been interested to hear some I refuse to accept that is the best we 10% to 5.8% in an attempt to assist Ameri- people saying that you all are just can do for the American people, and I cans between the ages of 50 and 64 who would ramming this through because the bill am voting ‘‘no.’’ see their premiums skyrocket under the cur- wasn’t posted until last night. What Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 rent plan. However, this deduction is not a wasn’t posted until last night was the minutes to the gentleman from Ten- credit and therefore would be of little use to low income seniors that are in very low tax Long-Upton amendment, or the Upton- nessee (Mr. ROE), who is a fellow physi- brackets or do not pay income tax at all. Ad- Long amendment. It is two pages. I in- cian and the chairman of the House ditionally, the new amendments to freeze vite my colleagues on the other side of Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Medicaid expansion enrollment as of Jan. 1, the aisle to read it. The McSally bill is Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, 2018, and reduce the Medicaid per-capita a page and a quarter. The MacArthur the American Health Care Act in no growth rate will disproportionately harm amendment, which has been out for way changes the existing regulations rural Americans. over a week, is about 8 pages. They that allow a veteran who is eligible but The AHCA will hurt vulnerable popu- not enrolled in the Department of Vet- lations in rural Americans, leaving millions could have read it while we have been of the sickest, most underserved populations standing here debating this bill. erans Affairs’ healthcare system from in our nation without coverage, and further But they don’t choose to read the using a tax credit to purchase health escalating the rural hospital closure crisis. bill, they don’t choose to learn the insurance. Language that would have According to the Wall Street Journal, the facts, and they don’t choose to tell the codified that legislation into law was ‘‘GOP health plan would hit rural areas hard.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.062 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4145 . . . Poor, older Americans would see the Any federal health care reform proposal existing condition could not be charged largest increase in insurance-coverage must address the fact that insurance pro- more than healthy people and that cov- costs.’’ The LA Times reports ‘‘Americans viders are withdrawing from rural markets. erage would be available to all. who swept President Trump to victory— Despite record profit levels, insurance com- Please vote against this shameful lower-income, older voters in conservative, panies are permitted to cherry pick profit- rural parts of the country—stand to lose the able markets for participation and are cur- bill. most in federal healthcare aid under a Re- rently not obliged to provide service to mar- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 publican plan to repeal and replace the Af- kets with less advantageous risk pools. De- minutes to the gentlewoman from Ten- fordable Care Act.’’ Let’s be clear—many mographic realities of the rural population nessee (Mrs. BLACK), the chairman of provisions in the ACA failed rural America. make the market less profitable, and thus the Budget Committee. The lack of plan competition in rural mar- less desirable for an insurance company with Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I am al- kets, exorbitant premiums, deductibles and no incentive to take on such exposure. In the ways amazed when I start hearing con- co-pays, the co-op collapses, lack of Medicaid same way that financial service institutions expansion, and devastating Medicare cuts to versations about the Affordable Care are required to provide services to under- Act and how it is working so well rural providers—all collided to create a served neighborhoods, profitable insurance health care crisis in rural America. However, companies should be required to provide today. it’s beyond frustrating that an opportunity services in underserved communities. I want to talk about two situations to fix these problems is squandered, and in- 3. Stop Bad Debt Cuts to Rural Hospitals— in my home State of Tennessee. stead, a greater health care crisis will be cre- Rural hospitals serve more Medicare pa- When the Affordable Care Act went ated in rural America. tients (46% rural vs. 40.9% urban), thus into place in the State of Tennessee, Congress has long recognized the impor- across-the-board Medicare cuts do not have we had a risk pool. The risk pool cov- tance of the rural health care safety net and across the board impacts. A goal of the ACA has steadfastly worked to protect it. And ered about 28,000 people. They were was to have hospital bad debt decrease sig- happy with their care, they were happy now, much of the protections created to nificantly. maintain access to care for the 62 million However, because of unaffordable health with their providers, and they were who live in rural America are in jeopardy. plans in rural areas, rural patients still can- happy with the cost. It was patient We implore Congress to continue its fight to not afford health care. Bad debt among rural centered. They determined what best protect rural patients’ access to care. Three hospitals has actually increased 50% since fit their needs. These were people with improvements are critical for rural patients the ACA was passed. According to MedPAC preexisting conditions, happy with and providers: ‘‘Average Medicare margins are negative, 1. Medicaid—Though most rural residents where they were. and under current law they are expected to are in non-expansion states, a higher propor- In 1 day, because the Federal Govern- decline in 2016’’ has led to 7% gains in me- tion of rural residents are covered by Med- dian profit margins for urban providers while ment said, You don’t meet this and you icaid (21% vs. 16%). rural providers have experienced a median don’t meet that and you don’t meet Congress and the states have long recog- this, they lost their insurance. They nized that rural is different and thus re- loss of 6%. If Congress does not act, all the decades of quires different programs to succeed. Rural were in the marketplace. efforts to protect rural patients’ access to payment programs for hospitals and pro- I want to tell you about two situa- viders are not ‘bonus’ payments, but rather care, could rapidly be undone. The National tions that are very close to me, but alternative, cost-effective and targeted pay- Rural Health Association implores Congress they only represent a number of the ment formulas that maintain access to care to act now to protect rural health care many calls that I get in my office. across the nation. for millions of rural patients and financial One is a good friend of mine who has stability for thousands of rural providers Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I want to remind my colleague from Ten- lupus. She went on the marketplace. across the country. Any federal health care For the first year, she did pretty good. reform must protect a state’s ability to pro- nessee that his vote could increase pre- tect its rural safety net providers. The fed- miums with breast cancer in Tennessee Her premiums were pretty low; her de- eral government must not abdicate its by $38,550 per year. ductible was reasonable. But here is moral, legal, and financial responsibilities to Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to what she found: she couldn’t keep her rural, Medicaid eligible populations by en- the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. doctor. suring access to care. Can you imagine someone who has Any federal health care reform proposal DINGELL). Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise had lupus for a number of years, it is must protect access to care in Rural Amer- being controlled, and now she is told ica, and must provide an option to a state to today in strong opposition to this mis- receive an enhanced reimbursement included guided legislation to repeal the Afford- she cannot keep her doctor? She had to in a matching rate or a per capita cap, spe- able Care Act. find other doctors. She was not happy cifically targeted to create stability among This vote might be the single most with that because she had a relation- rural providers to maintain access to care important issue our Congress deals ship. They didn’t use the same treat- for rural communities. Enhancements must with. It literally means life or death ment and care that she had received be equivalent to the cost of providing care for too many people in our country. before. So she has not felt very for rural safety net providers, a safeguard healthy. that ensures the enhanced reimbursement is What we vote on today is ultimately provided to the safety net provider to allow a reflection of our values as a nation. I In the meantime, every year that it for continued access to care. Rural safety believe that we have a moral responsi- is renewed, she calls me to say: My pre- net providers include, but not limited to, bility to take care of the most vulner- miums have gone up, my deductibles Critical Access Hospitals, Rural Prospective able among us. The nuns taught me have gone up, and now it is more than Payment Hospitals, Rural Health Clinics, In- that. The Bible teaches us that. They what I was paying before when I liked dian Health Service providers, and individual are the sick, the poor, the elderly. This what I had and I couldn’t keep it, oppo- rural providers. site of what the President told every- 2. Market Reform—Forty-one percent of dangerous bill does nothing to protect rural marketplace enrollees have only a sin- them. In fact, it will do more harm to one: If you like what you have, you can gle option of insurer, representing 70 percent our most vulnerable. keep it. of counties that have only one option. This There are 129 million Americans who The second one is someone who has lack of competition in the marketplace suffer from a preexisting condition. myasthenia gravis. Again, on that means higher premiums. Rural residents av- They are our neighbors, our friends, same risk pool. She lost her oppor- erage per month cost exceeds urban ($569.34 and, for some, our family. They are the tunity to get the medication that she for small town rural vs. $415.85 for metropoli- was receiving, an IV medication. She tan). people attending their townhall meet- Rural Americans are more likely to have ings. has myasthenia gravis. She was very obesity, diabetes, cancer, and traumatic in- For me, I am a caregiver. I spend controlled, able to work, living a jury; they are more likely to participate in more time at the hospital and with the healthy lifestyle. high risk health behaviors including smok- doctors than I want to. Person after The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ing, poor diet, physical inactivity, and sub- person comes up to me and tells me time of the gentlewoman has expired. stance abuse. Rural Americans are more their story and begs me not to lose Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield likely to be uninsured or underinsured and their insurance. Healthy Michigan let an additional 1 minute to the gentle- less likely to receive employer sponsored health insurance. Rural communities have them go to the doctor for the first woman. fewer health care providers for insurers to time. Mrs. BLACK. She lost her oppor- contract, with to provide an adequate net- The Affordable Care Act made a tunity to have that medication because work to serve the community. guarantee that someone with a pre- that medication was $400 a month, now

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.048 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4146 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 it is $3,400 month, and no longer can cally cost more in the Medicaid sys- shortfall right now that this legisla- she get her medication. tem? We adjust for that. It is in the per tion would provide over $320 million to When the other side talks about how capita allotment. As they move, they help fill. wonderful this system is, I implore would transfer. It is not a traditional One of their proposals is to kick them to come to our State and talk to block grant, unless the State chooses 350,000 people off of Medicaid. This the people in our State. to do so. would help fill the gap: $320 million in I am a registered nurse. I know what We are here reforming an entitle- the next 2 years to fill an $882 million it is like to take care of people who ment program for the first time since shortfall they have. have healthcare conditions who need to the 1990s. It is a very sound, solid way, But this is a problem across the be in a risk pool. But let’s do it the and a way that preserves and protects country. What we are trying to do here right way. Let’s give it to our States. the program and prevents the program is reform ObamaCare, the Affordable Let’s allow this now to be used in a from imploding on itself within a dec- Care Act, in a way that will work going way that is patient-centered, the way ade. into the future. Otherwise, people are it was working in my home State of Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- going to be left with not only enor- Tennessee. mind my colleague from Kentucky that mous rate increases in the premiums, Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and his vote for the healthcare bill will but also you have seen an explosion in I am looking forward to the vote later take away protections for 881,000 peo- the cost of what they have to pay out on this afternoon. ple with preexisting conditions in Ken- of pocket. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- tucky. I have had people in my district say: mind my colleague from Tennessee Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Look, I am outside of that area where that her vote will take away protec- gentleman from California (Mr. RUIZ). I get a subsidy, and I am paying full tions for 1.265 million in her State with Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, this bill is price. Our premiums have gone up 50 preexisting conditions. worse than a sham. This bill is worse percent in the last 2 years. My options Mr. Speaker, I yield 45 seconds to the than a sugar pill. This bill is downright have gone down from four or five to gentleman from Maryland (Mr. SAR- ugly. It is poison. As an emergency maybe one or two, maybe three, and it BANES). medicine doctor, I urge you to do no is getting worse. They are threatening Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Speaker, I harm. I urge everybody to do no harm. to pull out. My out-of-pocket costs are thank the gentleman for yielding. Let’s be clear: a vote for this bill is a now so high, I am paying for something Mr. Speaker, President Trump and vote for 24 million people to lose their I can’t even afford to use. the Republicans are looking for a win. insurance. A vote for this bill is to add We are trying to fix and rescue this They want to put points on the score- an age tax to those 55 years old and market and bring people in. board. But why would you want to win older. A vote for this bill is raise out- You hear all these numbers State by by taking healthcare coverage away of-pocket costs for everyone, with less State. I am not buying into that at all. from 24 million Americans? Why would coverage. A vote for this bill is to take They don’t understand what our bill you consider it a victory to raise pre- away guarantees for emergency care, does. We are giving States authority, miums and copayments and deductibles medicine, mental health, and mater- we are giving protections for people, on millions of Americans, including nity care. A vote for this bill is to and we are going to get this straight- millions of older Americans? Why allow private health insurance compa- ened out once and for all so that we would you view it as a success to elimi- nies to drop patients who have a pre- have an insurance market that works, nate protections for preexisting condi- existing illness. but, more importantly, that we have a tions? How, you may ask? Let’s say I see a healthcare system that people can af- If I could vote against this bill 100 patient with diabetes who doesn’t have ford and that we can get quality health times, I would do it. If I could vote health insurance. A private health in- care when they see a doctor, between against it 1,000 times for the thousands surance company can say: No, we are them and their doctor, without a bu- of my constituents that will be hurt by not going to cover you. Why don’t you reaucrat in between. this bill, I would. go to the high-risk, high-cost State in- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield It is wrong, it is immoral, and it is surance pool that is way too expensive, to the gentlewoman from Michigan inhumane. with no guarantees that they will (Mrs. LAWRENCE) for the purpose of a Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 cover what they need. Therefore, they unanimous consent request. minutes to the gentleman from Ken- won’t be able to afford it. They won’t (Mrs. LAWRENCE asked and was tucky (Mr. GUTHRIE), the vice chair- have coverage. They are going to go given permission to revise and extend man of the Health Subcommittee on into financial ruin. All of this is in her remarks.) the Energy and Commerce Committee. order to give $6 billion in tax cuts to Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the wealthiest. today to express my opposition to this the chairman for yielding. I urge everybody to vote ‘‘no.’’ horrible bill, and I include in the Mr. Speaker, what I want to talk Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 RECORD a letter in opposition from the about is what is underlying in this bill minutes to the gentleman from Oregon Children’s Hospital Association. in the traditional reform in Medicaid. (Mr. WALDEN), the chairman of the full CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION, Medicaid currently costs State and Committee on Energy and Commerce. Washington, DC, March 15, 2017. Federal Governments $600 billion. It is Mr. WALDEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Hon. ORRIN HATCH, estimated in 10 years—a decade—to our colleagues who have worked so Chairman, Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate, cost a trillion dollars. It is a system hard on this legislation to try and res- Washington, DC. that is set up to implode on itself. cue these failing insurance markets. Hon. RON WYDEN, So we want to fix the problem before We learned yesterday, I think most Ranking Member, Committee on Finance, U.S. we get to the critical point where it is of Iowa now will not have a single in- Senate, Washington, DC. going to implode. Let’s fix it now, and surer left on the exchanges. If you are Hon. GREG WALDEN, Chairman, Committee on Energy and Commerce, let’s make it right. one of the people out there in the one- House of Representatives, Washington, DC. What we do is allow States to have out-of-three counties where people only Hon. FRANK PALLONE, the same money they had in 2016—the have one option for insurance, what we Ranking Member, Committee on Energy and exact same money—with growth. The are trying to do here is fix this market Commerce, House of Representatives, Wash- growth would be the CPI, medical, and, so you actually have insurance to ington, DC. in some categories, plus one. They also cover you. DEAR CHAIRMEN HATCH AND WALDEN: On be- have growth in demographics. We have We believe that in going forward with half of our nation’s children’s hospitals and some people who retire to other States. this piece of legislation not only do we the patients and families they serve, we be- lieve the American Health Care Act (AHCA) They have a concern. What if I am give more flexibility to States to inno- in its current form is a setback to child from a State where somebody lives in vate, they care about the people in health on a national level. Over 30 million an area and then they move to my their States. I know my home State of children receive their health care coverage State when they are older and typi- Oregon does. Yet they are facing a through Medicaid. The legislation as written

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.065 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4147 cuts the budget, coverage, and benefits for are a separate and distinct population from This bill still strips 24 million Ameri- the care for children, many of whom have adults. Funding dedicated to children must cans of health care, cuts $880 billion significant health care needs, including chil- be identifiable, allowing for an accurate pic- from Medicaid, and increases premiums dren with disabilities. ture of the federal and state investment in Children’s hospitals have identified several kids. This is an important part of ensuring for the majority of Americans. It still provisions in the AHCA that create serious accountability and the availability of suffi- has an age tax if you are 50 to 64 years concerns about the bill as passed by the cient resources to address children’s health old, and cuts maternity care and cov- House Energy and Commerce Committee. care needs. We believe it is important to con- erage for substance abuse disorders. Foremost among these concerns is that the sider protections preventing diversion of re- It still gives $1 trillion in tax cuts to bill would cut the health care budget for sources specifically intended for children. As the wealthiest millionaires, billion- children by converting the Medicaid program we work with state governments to innovate aires, and corporations on the backs of to a per-capita cap system beginning in 2020. and improve care delivery, the nation’s pedi- working people who will pay more and This limits future funding for the states and atric providers are in a better position to risks significant reductions in the Medicaid help states achieve their goals if all kids are get less. budgets providing care for over 30 million in a common eligibility category. TrumpCare 2.0 adds insult to injury children. The current Medicaid entitlement Continue requirements that all children re- because my Republican colleagues financing structure allows for greater cer- ceive pediatric-specific benefits providing would like you to believe that they are tainty for children in the Medicaid program medically necessary care determined by going to cover preexisting conditions. and shifting to a capped environment risks their physicians. The current Medicaid That is just not true. undermining the current health care avail- structure includes important protections for American people, be clear: this will able to children. all children and ensures they have access to We are alarmed children’s health care fi- medically-necessary care. It is essential that not cover preexisting conditions, and nancing is not considered and protected in Congress includes language guaranteeing 133 million Americans with those pre- the AHCA, and that children are exposed to continued access to pediatric-specific serv- existing conditions will suffer. There equal funding risk in the Congressional ices provided under the Early and Periodic are kids like James Kish, an 8-year-old Budget Office (CBO) estimates that AHCA Screening Diagnostic and Treatment in my district who has a brain tumor will reduce overall Medicaid funding by $880 (EPSDT) benefit. and literally stands to die if this bill billion or 25%. Medicaid is the largest payer Maintain Medicaid coverage levels for chil- dren and protect them from potential loss of passes. for children’s health care in the nation and Mr. Speaker, hundreds across this cuts of this magnitude will have a severe coverage or delays in eligibility. Changes to negative impact on children’s health care. eligibility, such as ending hospitals’ ability country are calling our offices and There are also discrete program changes en- to make presumptive eligibility determina- weeping. We should all weep that this visioned in the AHCA posing detrimental ef- tions, limiting retroactive coverage, or re- bill is coming to the floor. We should fects to children’s access to health care. Eli- ducing children’s Medicaid mandatory eligi- vote ‘‘no.’’ gibility policy changes in the bill risk reduc- bility levels, directly risk children’s cov- ing or delaying access to Medicaid coverage. erage and should not be included. b 1215 We are concerned by CBO’s projections that Remove the provision in the bill elimi- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield nating hospital presumptive eligibility au- Medicaid enrollment will substantially de- 20 seconds to the gentleman from Or- crease under the AHCA and the absence of thority. Hospital presumptive eligibility au- thority allows hospitals to temporarily en- egon. information on the impact on children spe- Mr. WALDEN. Mr. Speaker, I have to cifically suggests that additional examina- roll children, pregnant women, and other in- tion of these issues is needed. dividuals in Medicaid until their full enroll- say that the information that we are We support maintaining Medicaid as an en- ment determination can be made. This being told, even The New York Times titlement for children as well as retaining means earlier access to needed care for Med- has characterized some of it as being essential elements of the program. Every icaid eligible children. misleading, and it is. When you say Or- Remove the provision in the bill repealing child in America should have access to high the ability of states to provide retroactive egonians are going to suddenly be quality health care and Medicaid is critical eligibility up to three months prior to the thrown out, that is not true on pre- to this aim. Research shows providing Med- month of application, as allowed under cur- existing conditions because there is no icaid coverage for children is a smart invest- rent law. Ensuring retroactive coverage of waiver request. You are just making ment for the nation, resulting in better benefits under Medicaid is very important health outcomes for children into their adult that stuff up. I dispute it. It is mis- for children, especially children with com- lives and bringing long-term returns for the leading. It is wrong. It is fear- plex medical conditions. Without this provi- country. mongering, and I am sorry it is hap- sion, it will be challenging for families who Children’s hospitals cannot support any incur high levels of expense prior to their pening on this floor. bill that does not safeguard funding, cov- Medicaid-eligible child being enrolled in the Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I just erage and benefits for children. With respect program. want to remind my chairman that he to the AHCA, we call on lawmakers to pro- Remove the provision in the bill reducing represents more people on Medicaid ex- tect kids and recommend, at a minimum, the mandatory eligibility levels for children age pansion than any Republican in the following: 6–18 from 133 percent of federal poverty level We must not cut funding for children’s country, and this bill ends Medicaid ex- (FPL) to 100 percent of FPL. All other chil- care under a per capita cap. Children are al- pansion. dren are required to be covered by Medicaid ready funded at the lowest per beneficiary up to 133 percent of the FPL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the levels, and ensuring sufficient funding for Thank you again for the opportunity to gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR). children’s health care into the future is abso- provide comment on this legislation. We Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, lutely essential. Accomplishing this under look forward to working with you in this TrumpCare is another false promise. the current proposal requires clear identi- Congress to at least maintain the benefits fication of spending for all children, includ- Actually, it is musical chairs. Millions children have today, and to hopefully of Americans will be left out and priced ing those eligible based on disability, and ex- strengthen health care for children into the empting funds spent on children from a out, especially the sick, the old, the future. pregnant, and the mentally ill. Health ‘‘claw back’’ on any spending that exceeds Very best regards, per capita cap target expenditures. We be- MARK WIETECHA, insurance means life or death. lieve spending on all children should be pro- President and CEO, In this concoction, who is eligible? tected from recoupment in the following Children’s Hospital Association. How much will it cost? Who will be left year. This is critical to ensuring states do out? not have incentives to restrict children’s ac- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- cess to medically necessary care. mind the chairman that his vote for There is no budget score from the Ensure all funding for children, including the healthcare bill will take away pro- Congressional Budget Office. Repub- blind and disabled children, is clearly identi- tections for 654,000 people with pre- licans aren’t guaranteeing affordable fied. Accurate information on Medicaid existing conditions in Oregon. coverage. Everybody knows even a one- spending is vital to evaluating the program’s Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the word change in your insurance policy effectiveness for children and holding states gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. can make a gigantic difference in your accountable for the delivery of services. We JAYAPAL). coverage. believe all children, including blind and dis- Why not give Americans a chance to abled children, should be included in a single Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I thank children’s 1903A enrollee category and the the gentleman for leading and for his calculate the bill’s true cost and how it per capita cap for children should be ad- leadership. will impact them? justed accordingly to reflect the higher ex- Mr. Speaker, let’s be very clear about As a result of the Affordable Care penses of children with disabilities. Children where we are with TrumpCare 2.0. Act, 1 million Ohioans now have health

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.053 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4148 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 insurance who didn’t have it before. I don’t know how anyone can look rior coverage and leave individuals ex- Here we are at the end of our long vot- their constituents in the eye if they posed to catastrophic health costs, ben- ing week with a major proposal that vote for this bill. Shame on you if you efit exclusions, and waiting lists. High- will rip away the health insurance ben- do. If you vote for this bill, there will risk pools spin sick people into a death efits or make them unaffordable for come a day when you will have to an- spiral. Premiums go ever higher and millions of Americans. Musical chairs swer for your vote, when you will have coverage is spotty. is not the way to run the people’s to look a friend, a family member in I can only hope that my colleagues House nor the life-and-death affairs of the eye, someone who is sick or dying, come to their senses before inevitably a great nation. TrumpCare sets up a and say: I did this to you. handing so many Americans a death cruel game of musical chairs. Shame, Don’t do it. Vote ‘‘no.’’ sentence. Make no mistake, people will shame, shame. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- die as a result of this bill. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 bers are reminded once again to direct Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, may I minute to the gentleman from Ken- their remarks to the Chair. inquire as to the time remaining. tucky (Mr. GUTHRIE), the vice chair- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- man of the Subcommittee on Health. minutes to the gentleman from South tleman from Texas has 11⁄2 minutes re- Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, I am Carolina (Mr. RICE). maining. The gentleman from New Jer- Mr. RICE of South Carolina. Mr. surprised that my friends on the other sey has 3⁄4 minute remaining. side are defending the ObamaCare age Speaker, I stand in support of the Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield tax, which is a tax on young people. I American people today who are being myself 1 minute. am the right demographic for it. dragged down by this failing disaster I do want to take a minute today to This is how it works: people from age called ObamaCare. Since I first got to thank the superior team we have in the 26 to 34 pay more so people from age 50 Congress, I have consistently heard House Legislative Counsel. They have to 64 pay less. from people across the Seventh Dis- put in many man hours and woman Think about this: I am 53. In 3 years, trict of South Carolina who have been hours to draft this bill that is being I will be 56, my daughter will be 26. negatively affected by ObamaCare. considered here in the House today. We were told: If you like your plan, What I am asking her to do and what Specifically I want to thank Ed Gross- you could keep it. we are asking her to do if we don’t re- man, Jessica Shapiro, Michelle Vanek, peal this is, as you are wanting to buy We were told: Your premiums would and Jesse Cross for their devotion to a house, get married—she got mar- go down by $2,500 per family. the people of the United States in help- ried—buy a house, start a family, get We were told it would provide more ing us draft this legislation. her family moving forward, we are choice. But what we have seen is ex- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of going to say: But we want you to pay actly the opposite. 232,000 South Caro- linians’ plans were canceled, premiums my time. more for your health care so I can pay Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield less. have increased by double digits every my remaining time to the gentle- That is what they are doing. They year and are up by 28 percent this year. woman from Illinois (Ms. KELLY). are having parents have their children There is only one insurer left in South Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, pay more so they can pay less. With all Carolina, and they are threatening to how tragic it is that before House Re- of us, I think we want our children, as pull out. The law is failing miserably publicans skip town, they will steal they start their families, start their and getting worse. life, to have more breaks, not put an- This bill repeals harmful ObamaCare from Medicare, pass an age tax on older other burden on them. taxes across the board that drove up Americans, say that children with au- I defend the fact that we are giving healthcare costs and transitions health tism are a preexisting condition, and tax relief to young people, for people care to a more competitive, patient- tell folks: If you have diabetes, you are from age 26 to 34, who can least afford centered insurance market. There are paying $5,600 more. the premiums that we are putting on still fixes that need to be made to fur- This morning, I heard from many them. ther improve health care, but this is a hospitals, doctors, and nurses across Il- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, may I dramatic move forward from where we linois. They know what families need inquire as to the time that remains on are today and the first step in moving to be taken care of and to be healthy. both sides? America’s health care from an They do not believe that stripping 24 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- unsustainable system to a sustainable million Americans of their health in- tleman from New Jersey has 23⁄4 min- one. surance is in the best interests of our utes remaining. The gentleman from Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I re- national health. Texas has 3 minutes remaining. mind my colleague from South Caro- To my eight Illinois colleagues on Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 lina that his vote for the healthcare the Republican side of the aisle, if you minute to the gentleman from Rhode bill will take away protections for vote ‘‘yes’’ on this bill, the eight of you Island (Mr. CICILLINE). 822,000 people with preexisting condi- own its aftermath in our State; you Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, this is tions in South Carolina. own the 47,000 jobs that you will kill; the cruelest and most immoral thing I Mr. Speaker, I yield 45 seconds to the you own the health of the million-plus have seen the Republican Party do to gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Illinoisans who will be stripped of their the American people. Tens of thou- WASSERMAN SCHULTZ). health insurance. sands of Americans will die if this bill Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Let’s kill this horrific bill and work passes. That is a fact. Republicans have Speaker, I rise today to condemn this together to make health insurance af- been deceiving the American people for abhorrent legislation that will rip fordable and accessible for all. the last 8 years. They don’t care about away protections from millions of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The working people, and this bill proves it. Americans. I am a breast cancer sur- Chair again reminds Members to direct They care about insurance companies vivor. President Trump and our Repub- their remarks to the Chair. and drug companies that fund their lican colleagues promised Americans Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield campaigns. They care about the mil- like me that we would not be discrimi- back the balance of my time. lionaires and billionaires who get huge nated against based on our preexisting Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield tax cuts in this bill. Don’t try to tell conditions. myself the balance of my time. me that they care about factory and I am not sure if any Republicans ac- Mr. Speaker, we are here today to construction workers who will be hurt tually know what it is like to live correct a technical problem that exists by this bill. Don’t try to tell me that every single day of your life waiting for with trying to draft to Senate rules they care about single moms who won’t the other shoe to drop, but with this with the House legislation. Recog- be able to put food on the table after bill, you yank that peace of mind that nizing the problem, the gentlewoman you pass this bill. Don’t try to tell me we have with the Affordable Care Act from Arizona (Ms. MCSALLY) has intro- that they care about cancer survivors out from under us. duced a straightforward and practical who are going to pay $140,000 more for This bill would allow States to seg- bill to fix the problem. It is a simple 2- health insurance. regate sick people into separate, infe- page bill that, when the American

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.068 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4149 Health Care Act becomes law, Members There was no objection. surance card, it doesn’t mean they of Congress and congressional staff will Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I yield have guaranteed care. be treated the same way as every other myself such time as I may consume. There are parts of my State in Ten- citizen. That is only right, and it is Mr. Speaker, I rise today in favor of nessee that don’t have a single insur- only proper. the American Health Care Act, a bill ance provider in the marketplace, and Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance that repeals the worst parts of two-thirds of the counties have only of my time. ObamaCare and begins to repair the one provider. That is not competition. The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time damage it has caused. This bill brings That is called a monopoly. for debate has expired. choice and competition back into the While no legislation is perfect, this Pursuant to House Resolution 308, healthcare marketplace and puts bill makes some important changes to the previous question is ordered on the healthcare decisions back into the help American families get quality, af- bill. hands of patients and doctors where it fordable health insurance: It zeros out The question is on the engrossment belongs. the mandates, it repeals the taxes, and and third reading of the bill. It has been a winding road to get to it repeals the subsidies; it allows peo- The bill was ordered to be engrossed this point, but we are here today to ful- ple to choose health insurance plans to and read a third time, and was read the fill the promise that we made to the meet the unique needs of their families third time. American people. I will point out right instead of purchasing a one-size-fits-all The SPEAKER pro tempore. The now to those who say we should have plan mandated by a Washington bu- question is on the passage of the bill. just moved on from healthcare reform, reaucrat; and it modernizes Medicaid, a The question was taken; and the American families and individuals are once-in-a-lifetime entitlement reform. Speaker pro tempore announced that suffering from rising costs and barriers Ending Medicaid’s open-ended fund- the ayes appeared to have it. to getting the care that they need ing structure will play an important Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, on that right now. role in addressing our future budget I demand the yeas and nays. Under ObamaCare, the situation is deficits and our growing national debt. This is a particularly proud moment The yeas and nays were ordered. getting worse every day. In Iowa, just The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- for me. I was working as a nurse in yesterday, one of the last remaining in- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- Nashville in the 1990s when the Clinton surers announced that it will pull out ceedings on this question will be post- administration pushed a single-payer of the ObamaCare exchanges, leaving poned. pilot program in Tennessee called nearly all of the State’s residents with TennCare. I saw firsthand the negative f no—and, yes, I will say again, nearly impact government-run health care has FURTHER MESSAGE FROM THE all of the residents with no available on patient care. I saw costs rise and SENATE health insurance plan for the purchase the quality of care fall. It inspired me under ObamaCare. A further message from the Senate to get involved in public service. by Ms. Curtis, one of its clerks, an- b 1230 When in 2009 and 2010 I saw those nounced that the Senate has passed And in a few of the Iowa counties same principles being debated and, with an amendment in which the con- which are the remaining insurers, even eventually, implemented on the na- currence of the House is requested, a that company is saying it might stop tional level, I thought my experience bill of the House of the following title: offering plans, leaving the entire State in Tennessee could be valuable in the H.R. 534. An act to require the Secretary of without an insurance plan available national debate; so, in 2011, I sponsored State to take such actions as may be nec- under ObamaCare. That is happening the first piece of legislation that re- essary for the United States to rejoin the this very week. We can’t wait a mo- pealed a part of ObamaCare. Today, we Bureau of International Expositions, and for take the largest step yet in rescuing other purposes. ment longer than necessary to provide relief for the American people by re- the American people from this dam- f pealing and replacing ObamaCare. aging, government-run healthcare sys- AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT OF I applaud the Members of this body tem. 2017 who stuck with us during this process I, and many other Members of this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and worked hard to make the bill bet- body, have worked hard to make sure ant to clause 1(c) of rule XIX, further ter. I, myself, had concerns about the that this bill truly reflects our visions consideration of the bill (H.R. 1628) to bill as it was introduced. I worked hard for healthcare reform. I, for one, can- provide for reconciliation pursuant to to make sure that the bill truly re- not sit idly by and let this opportunity title II of the concurrent resolution on flected my ideals and the views and de- go to waste. Governing is hard, but our the budget for fiscal year 2017, as sires of my constituents. And when the constituents did not elect us to do amended, will now resume. bill came before the Budget Com- what is easy. They elected us to do The Clerk read the title of the bill. mittee, which I chair, I urged my mem- what is right. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- bers to stay in the fight and work to I urge my colleagues to join me in ant to House Resolution 308, the fur- improve the bill rather than stop it in voting ‘‘yes’’ on the American Health ther amendments printed in House Re- its tracks. Care Act to rescue the American people port 115–109 are considered as adopted. And do you know what? Our members from ObamaCare. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of When consideration was postponed on did just that, making some rec- 3 my time. Friday, March 24, 2017, 41 ⁄4 minutes of ommendations that were eventually in- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, the debate remained on the bill. cluded in the various amendments. I yield myself such time as I may con- The gentlewoman from Tennessee That message was heard loud and clear sume, and I remind my colleague that (Mrs. BLACK) has 191⁄2 minutes remain- by all of the members of our Con- her vote for this bill could increase pre- ing. The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. ference who have worked tirelessly to miums for people with breast cancer in SCOTT) has 221⁄4 minutes remaining. finalize a bill that truly reflects our vi- Tennessee by over $38,000. The Chair recognizes the gentle- sion for healthcare reform. Mr. Speaker, let’s begin with a few woman from Tennessee. Throughout this process, our com- facts: GENERAL LEAVE mitment to undoing the damage done Since the passage of the Affordable Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I ask by ObamaCare has remained steadfast. Care Act, costs have gone up at the unanimous consent that all Members Day after day, my constituents call my lowest rate in 50 years; may have 5 legislative days in which to office begging us to do something to Those with preexisting conditions get revise and extend their remarks on save them from ObamaCare, and it is insurance at the standard rate; H.R. 1628, the American Health Care because ObamaCare is collapsing. Instead of millions of people losing Act of 2017. In my State of Tennessee, families their insurance every year, 20 million The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there are suffering. Premiums have increased more people have insurance; objection to the request of the gentle- by 60 percent, while deductibles are so Personal bankruptcies are down 50 woman from Tennessee? high that, even if someone has an in- percent.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.069 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Still, all we hear are complaints, the Affordable Care Act protects people flictions. We are trying to find a place press releases, and promises about with preexisting conditions—this bill here that works for all Americans, something better. But CBO has de- does not. High-risk pools don’t work. where we have insurance markets that bunked this proposal by pointing out My constituents are scared, and so are actually available where you can that 24 million fewer people will have are people across this country. get an insurance product that works insurance, that costs will go up, and in- Arden from Gearhart, Oregon, wrote for you that is affordable for you. surance will cover less. to me, distraught, because she and her We know that today, in America, the So, whatever you think about the Af- daughter, Selah, could lose coverage. insurance market and the individual fordable Care Act, this bill makes Arden took the loving step of adopting market—that is a very small segment, things worse—except for millionaires, a child with special needs, and now the 7 percent of insurance in America; that who get a tax cut. support program they rely on is at risk is what we are talking about here Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of of being terminated by this bill. today—that that market is collapsing my time. This is a critical vote. I implore my before our eyes. In fact, in Iowa, I Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, it is my colleagues to think about all of the think they just announced 94 in 99 honor to yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gen- people like Arden and Selah in their counties, people there won’t even have tleman from Tennessee (Mr. ROE), a communities. Think about the millions an insurance product they can try to physician and the chair of the Vet- across this country who risk losing purchase on the exchange. erans’ Affairs Committee. coverage. We have met with Governors and we Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, 7 I implore my colleagues to do no have met with insurers. We have said: years ago, I stood right in this well to harm. Vote ‘‘no’’ on this harmful bill. What do we need to do to intercede to debate the ACA, which the premise was Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 get this market back to where it to increase access and decrease costs. minutes to the gentleman from Oregon works? The proposals contained in our We all agree with that. But that is not (Mr. WALDEN), the chair of the Energy legislation are designed to do exactly exactly what happened. and Commerce Committee, who has that: to get back to where consumers In my district, in the State of Ten- worked tirelessly on this bill. have choices when they are required to nessee, over one-third of the counties Mr. WALDEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield to buy insurance to take care of their have no place they can buy insurance; the gentleman from Florida (Mr. WEB- families. Those choices need to be af- and multiple counties in my State, in- STER), my colleague, for the purpose of fordable. They are not now, today. cluding the third largest, have no ac- a colloquy. In my own State of Oregon, pre- cess. Premiums have soared over 60 Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. I thank miums have gone up 50 percent in the percent. Eighteen of the 23 co-ops went the chairman for yielding. last 2 years. Meanwhile, the number of bankrupt, including one in my State, I have heard from my Governor, options that you have to choose from which required people to search for State officials, and providers about the has gone down—and continues to go other coverage. challenges on the ground in Florida down. Now, we haven’t gone as far as No matter what verbiage you hear, and what they are facing. The demo- some States where you have either no nothing in this bill changes how vet- graphic issues in Florida raise signifi- option in most areas of the State or erans are treated under the law—noth- cant challenges for the State of Flor- just one, but how far off is it when in- ing. The criticisms are flat-out wrong. ida, and it is the Medicaid program. surers are failing, people losing their I am a veteran, doctor, and chairman Particularly, the State Medicaid pro- opportunity to get affordable health in- of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, gram and providers face challenges re- surance? and it ain’t gonna happen. lating to the costs of caring for the We take care of the disabled. We take In my State, and where I practiced most disadvantaged and the elderly in care of the elderly. In fact, we plus-up medicine for over 30 years, listen to Florida’s nursing home program, as to medical CPI plus 1 to make sure this: 60 to 70 percent of the well as the rising costs associated with that we take care of the elderly and uncollectible debt now are people with Florida’s aging population. the disabled in our Medicaid program. insurance. As the process moves forward, Flor- By the way, that is probably more So why do I support this bill? ida’s unique challenges must be recog- than most States are spending today. One, it protects preexisting condi- nized and accounted for as we reallo- So we have thought this through tions; cate dollars for this important safety carefully. We care about people and Two, it puts patients ahead of special net program. their medical condition and their fami- interests and restores a physician-pa- Mr. WALDEN. I thank the gentleman lies because we are all in this together tient relationship; from Florida for not only raising this as Americans. Three, it reforms Medicaid so that issue, but being a real partner in this I think the bill we have before us first-class people don’t get second-class legislation. I met with your Governor today works. It works to take care of care; and as well, who has been very helpful in those most in need. It works to make Four, it repeals individual mandates the discussions. sure that the people can get access to so that 160,000 Tennesseans don’t get We believe that accounting for aging insurance. fined for a product they cannot afford. demographics of the Medicaid program I will tell you what. It is a first step Mr. Speaker, this bill isn’t perfect, and broader population is an important in a many-step process to also look at but it is a huge improvement over factor we must consider to ensure that families who are dealing with opioid ObamaCare, and it is worthy of every any Medicaid reform is successfully addition and what we can do there. Member’s support. implemented. I am committed to work- There are efforts at NIH, which we just Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, ing with the gentleman from Florida, supported yesterday, to fund medical I remind my colleague that his vote for our colleagues in the Senate, and the research so that we can get cures for this bill could take healthcare protec- Trump administration to ensure Flor- those who have diseases and other af- tions away from over a million people ida’s unique challenges related to an flictions. We are fully committed to in Tennessee with preexisting condi- aging Medicaid demographic are recog- improving health care not only for tions. nized and accounted for appropriately. Americans, but around the globe, Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Mr. Speaker, in the remaining part of through innovation and scientific dis- gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. my time, I would just like to thank my covery. BONAMICI), the vice ranking member of colleagues for their work on this meas- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, the Committee on Education and the ure. I remind my colleague that his vote for Workforce. Making sure that people have access this healthcare bill will take away pro- Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, today to affordable health care is essential. It tections for over 600,000 people in Or- the House is voting on a harmful bill is something I would say that we all egon with preexisting conditions. that puts the most vulnerable members care about. We all care about family Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the of our community at risk. We know members who have suffered from can- gentleman from California (Mr. that millions will lose coverage. And cer or other debilitating diseases or af- TAKANO).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.071 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4151 (Mr. TAKANO asked and was given Representation; Nicole Jorwic, The Arc of It takes away essential health bene- permission to revise and extend his re- the United States; Sarah Meek, Lutheran fits, like doctor visits, emergency room marks.) Services in America Disability Network; visits, and prescription drugs. So this, Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I include Laura Weidner, National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Mr. Speaker, will be a very instructive in the RECORD a letter from the Con- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, there are vote. It will show the American people sortium for Citizens with Disabilities, 7 million veterans who are eligible for if Republicans stand with those who which states that this legislation will VA care but not enrolled at the VA. All don’t want to lose their coverage, some dramatically cut Medicaid services of them could be denied access to the 55 percent now and 75 percent saying that are vital to people with disabil- tax credits in this bill, and each in this fix it, don’t repeal it—or if they stand ities and seniors. Chamber needs to understand how. with a President who wants to claim a CONSORTIUM FOR CITIZENS On page 10, line 6 of manager’s victory, but doesn’t even seem to know WITH DISABILITIES, amendment No. 4, it states that an in- what his own TrumpCare bill says. April 28, 2017. dividual is not eligible for tax credits if I recommend, as a political strategist DEAR MEMBER OF CONGRESS: The Consor- who is concerned about 2018, that you tium for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) is they are eligible for care, as defined by strongly opposed to the amended American U.S. Code 5000A(f)(1)(A). This code spe- once again withdraw this bill. Instead, Health Care Act. The amended American cifically includes VA care. So this we ought to work together to make Health Care Act retains the original bill’s means that those 7 million veterans sure that the Affordable Care Act proposals to dramatically but Medicaid serv- who are eligible for VA care, even if works for all Americans, and deliver on ices that are vital to people with disabilities they are not enrolled, would not have the promise that President Trump and seniors through per capita caps, which access to the tax credits in this law. made—and made from that rostrum— CCD has opposed. The new amendments—in- This is not fear-mongering. This is when he said that he wanted ‘‘insur- cluding permitting states to seek waivers from the protections for people with pre-ex- not hyperbole. This is the text of the ance for everybody;’’ not kick 24 mil- isting conditions and from the requirement bill we are voting on today. This bill lion off, ‘‘for everybody;’’ not make to provide essential health benefits—makes jeopardizes health care for up to 7 mil- seniors pay more, ‘‘for everybody;’’ not the amended AHCA even more harmful to lion veterans, and everyone should op- to put Medicaid at risk, ‘‘for every- people with disabilities. We urge you to op- pose it. body’’ that is ‘‘far less expensive and pose this legislation. b 1245 far better.’’ Medicaid provides services and supports Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues: that maintain the health, function, inde- Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I reserve pendence, and well-being of 10 million enroll- Come to your senses, defeat this bill. the balance of my time. Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I would ees living with disabilities. For many people Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, like to remind the other side that if with disabilities, being able to access timely I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman needed care is a life or death matter. The they read the bill, they will see under from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), the Demo- American Health Care Act changes the way section 137 it says: that the Federal Government funds Med- cratic whip. No limiting access to coverage for individ- icaid—rather than paying states based on (Mr. HOYER asked and was given uals with preexisting conditions. Nothing in the actual costs of healthcare for people in permission to revise and extend his re- this act shall be construed as permitting Medicaid, it sets a cap on the amount of fed- marks.) health insurance insurers to limit access to eral support, a cap that is totally unrelated Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, Repub- health coverage for individuals with pre- to the actual costs of needed care for enroll- licans now control all of our govern- existing conditions. ees. This cap is designed to cut Medicaid, and ment. Whatever happens to our Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to yield the bill uses those cuts to pay for unrelated healthcare system will be their respon- tax cuts. Slashing federal support for Med- 4 minutes to the gentleman from Texas sibility, including what has already icaid, which is already a lean program, will (Mr. BRADY), the chairman of the Ways happened since January with the desta- force states to cut services and eligibility and Means Committee. bilizing of our insurance markets and that put the health and wellbeing of people Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I with disabilities at significant risk. health plans announcing rate hikes due first want to thank Chairwoman BLACK The newest amendments to the American to uncertainty. Health Care Act make the bill even more They will be held accountable for for her leadership on this effort, as well harmful to people with disabilities. The new what happens. Today, Americans will as Chairman WALDEN of the Energy and amendments would allow states to easily ob- Commerce Committee for incredible tain waivers, that would allow them to have an opportunity to see exactly where their Representatives stand. work. charge higher premiums to people with pre- As chairman on behalf of the Ways This vote is a simple one. It votes to existing conditions, including people with and Means Committee who work along- kick 24 million Americans off of their disabilities. They also would allow states to side you, I am honored to speak in sup- seek waivers from the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance coverage. I don’t say port of the American Health Care Act requirement to provide essential health ben- that; CBO says that, which is perhaps because it guarantees coverage for efits, including crucial services for people why we don’t have a CBO report on the those with preexisting illnesses. with disabilities such as mental health and amendment. It includes 7 million peo- substance use disorder services, prescription It guarantees coverage for those with ple who are covered through their em- drugs, rehabilitative and habilitative serv- preexisting illnesses. In fact, this bill ployers. ices and devices, preventative and wellness takes decisive action to repeal all of services and chronic disease management, It is a vote to make coverage unaffordable for one in four Americans the bad parts, all of the damage done and pediatric services. These waivers jeop- by ObamaCare, and begin a thoughtful ardize the Affordable Care Act’s protections with preexisting conditions and ration for people with pre-existing conditions, in- care through high-risk pools. step-by-step process to deliver a pa- cluding people with disabilities, and CCD op- It is a vote to impose an age tax on tient-centered healthcare system, not a poses any roll-back of those protections. older Americans, some $1,700 to $14,600. Washington-centered healthcare sys- The ACA helped millions of people with That is quite a hike. tem, to the American people. disabilities and others to gain access to af- It is a vote to force Americans to pay While ObamaCare has helped some, fordable and comprehensive health insur- more for less, to raise premiums 24 to far more have been hurt by this law. ance. The amended American Health Care And more ObamaCare failures are pil- Act is insufficient to help people with dis- 29 percent, on average, over each of the abilities meet their healthcare needs, and we next 2 years. CBO says that, not me. ing up every day. Just yesterday, urge you to oppose the bill should it come to And no matter how Republicans try Aetna announced it will exit Virginia’s a vote. to spin it, healthcare advocates from individual health market next year. Sincerely, the AMA to AARP, to everybody that And it is not just the State’s Health Task Force Co-chairs: Bethany follows, have said that it ends protec- ObamaCare exchanges they are leaving Lilly, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law; tions for those with preexisting condi- behind. Aetna will not offer any plans Dave Machledt, National Health Law Pro- next year in the individual market in gram; Peter Thomas, Brain Injury Associa- tions. tion of America; Julie Ward, The Arc of the I repeat: It ends protections for those Virginia. United States. with preexisting conditions. The same thing is happening in Iowa. Long Term Services and Supports Co- I repeat again: It ends protections for And my friends on the Democratic chairs: Alison Barkoff, Center for Public those with preexisting conditions. aisle have done nothing to stop this—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.073 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4152 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 nothing. But today, because of this Mr. Speaker, I urge the support of all kids’ lives. The policy arm, Common bill, thousands of people will have hope this bill. Sense Kids Action, is building a movement of for a new plan to provide the Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, parents, teachers, business leaders, and oth- healthcare coverage they need. Mil- I remind my colleague that his vote for ers dedicated to making kids our nation’s lions of Americans throughout the top priority by supporting policies at the this bill could take away protections of state and federal level that contribute to the country are facing just terrible op- over 4.5 million people with preexisting building blocks of opportunity for kids. Ac- tions. conditions in Texas who might have ac- cess to affordable and quality medical care People of Texas have been hit par- cess to coverage, but if they have dia- for kids is certainly one of those key build- ticularly hard. Between last year and betes, their rates could go up $5,000. ing blocks. this year, nine healthcare insurers Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Thanks to current law, including the Af- have exited ObamaCare exchanges in gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. fordable Care Act, Medicaid, and the Chil- dren’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), the Lone Star State. No other State ADAMS). 95% of young children in the U.S. today have saw more insurers leave. For my fam- Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank ily, the failures of this law have come health insurance. That’s a remarkable the gentleman for yielding. achievement. With health insurance, parents to mean some incredibly tough choices. After his latest failed attempt to roll are more likely to seek medical care for They have had to accept, under back the ACA, Speaker RYAN declared themselves and for their children, helping to ObamaCare, you can’t access affordable to the American people ‘‘ObamaCare is prevent illnesses from developing and short- coverage that is tailored to what they the law of the land.’’ Less than 50 days ening their duration when they occur. How- need. They have had to learn how to later, PAUL RYAN shamefully is going ever, the AHCA will result in 24 million get by as their monthly health pre- against his word trying to ram fewer Americans having coverage, including miums just skyrocket each and every TrumpCare down our throats. millions of children. This jeopardizes the health and well-being of America’s kids and year—bigger than their mortgage pay- It is an embarrassment that we are ments. They have had to choose be- will alarm any parent who understands the wasting taxpayer dollars to again con- importance of health insurance for their tween paying out of pocket for the care sider TrumpCare—or as I called it children and family. The Affordable Care Act they need or not getting care at all. ‘‘Trump don’t care’’—a reckless plan certainly needs to be fixed, but if Congress Under ObamaCare, the ability to re- that does nothing to make health care has the goal of making sure that all families ceive treatment from a doctor you better. and businesses have access to affordable and know and who knows you has become a TrumpCare gives the rich and big comprehensive health insurance, it could im- luxury that too many can’t afford. corporations a $600 billion tax break. It prove the law for everyone without forcing Today, with the American Health Care forces families to pay higher premiums millions of kids and their parents to lose ac- cess to critical medical care. Act, the Republicans propose we have and deductions, placing health care out an opportunity to provide immediate As Congress continues to grapple with this of their reach. TrumpCare forces sen- issue, health insurance programs, we think relief from this failing law. More than iors to pay higher costs and changes these facts about children’s health insurance that, we can provide Americans with Medicare as we know it. It strips essen- from the Congressional Budget Office and real choices in health care, not the tial health benefits and protections for the Georgetown University Center for Chil- painful decision they are forced to live people with preexisting conditions. dren and Families are important to keep in with under ObamaCare. What a pitiful display of partisan pol- mind: Ninety-five percent of children age 0–5 are Under the Ways and Means Com- itics. TrumpCare is so bad, Republicans mittee area, this starts by repealing insured today. have exempted themselves from it. the law’s crushing taxes and mandates, Forty-five million of those children access They don’t want TrumpCare. The med- health care through two programs: about 37 and that is where Ways and Means ical industry doesn’t want TrumpCare. million through Medicaid (a federal-state takes action. Under ObamaCare, the in- Democrats don’t want TrumpCare. program) and 8 million through CHIP, the dividual and employer mandate pen- Why don’t House Republicans listen? Children’s Health Insurance Program. alties allow Washington to strong-arm The people don’t want it, and I won’t Children are the single-largest group of persons covered under Medicaid. you, to strong-arm Americans into support it. ObamaCare plans you do not want and Under the Affordable Care Act, as you Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I reserve know, many states expanded Medicaid with cannot afford. the balance of my time. Not anymore. Under the Republican help from the federal government, increasing Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, coverage for kids and families, including plan, we repeal the individual and em- I include in the RECORD a letter from coverage for mental health care. ployer mandate tax penalties so Ameri- Common Sense Kids Action that ex- Changes being considered, including under cans have the freedom to make the plains that: ‘‘This jeopardizes the the AHCA, would cut funding to Medicaid by healthcare choices that are right for health and well-being of America’s kids as much as $880 billion over the next 10 them. Under ObamaCare, over $1 tril- years. and will alarm any parent who under- The AHCA, when compared with current lion of taxes were imposed on the stands the importance of health insur- American people. Under the Republican law, would result in 24 million fewer Ameri- ance for their children and family.’’ plan, those taxes are gone that burden cans with health insurance by the year 2026. COMMON SENSE KIDS ACTION, Even with changes recently suggested to American small businesses and fami- April 25, 2017. your bill, America’s kids will be best served lies. Re H.R. 1628—OPPOSE. by strengthening the Affordable Care Act Under our plan, we provide increased Hon. DIANE BLACK, and preserving Medicaid and CHIP, not by health savings accounts so Americans Chairwoman, House Budget Committee, repealing the Affordable Care Act and block can save easier for the out-of-pocket House of Representatives, Washington, DC. granting or establishing a per capita cap on costs that hit them under any health DEAR REPRESENTATIVE BLACK: On behalf of Medicaid. We urge you to keep our children’s care; and then we create a personal in- the millions of American kids and families future foremost in your thinking, withdraw dividual tax credit so Americans can who rely on comprehensive, dependable your bill, and work on a bipartisan basis to health insurance to stay healthy and to get buy plans that are right for them, not support measures that protect and strength- medical treatment when they need it, we are en children’s health care. Thank you for what is right for government. writing to respectfully express our strong op- your consideration of our views and we Healthcare premiums, they can position to your bill, H.R. 1628, the American would be happy to talk with you at any time choose a plan that can go with them Health Care Act (AHCA). We have added this about this and other issues that matter to from job to job, State to State, home bill to our Common Sense Legislative Rat- America’s children and families. to start a business, or a family, and ings Tool as an ‘‘Against Kids’’ bill and will Sincerely, even into those preretirement years. communicate our position to our parent and DANNY WEISS, Today is about taking on a collapsing teacher members. Vice President, Federal Policy, ObamaCare and replacing for the Common Sense is the nation’s leading Common Sense Media/Kids Action. American people health care that they independent nonprofit organization dedi- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, cated to helping kids thrive in a rapidly want, that they can use, and that they changing world. We empower parents, teach- I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from can afford; driven not by what Wash- ers, and policymakers by providing unbiased New York (Mr. JEFFRIES). ington wants, but driven by what information, trusted advice, and innovative (Mr. JEFFRIES asked and was given American families need in their health tools to help them harness the power of permission to revise and extend his re- care. media and technology as a positive force in marks.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.075 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4153 Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, I in- health coverage to millions of people earning health and well-being of the 2.5 million peo- clude in the RECORD a letter from low to moderate incomes. While the bill pur- ple who rely on the organization for basic SEIU, which states: ports to allow states to maintain the expan- care. One in five women in the United States sion, states will only receive an enhanced has visited Planned Parenthood clinics and This legislation will leave millions without match, or additional funding, for people who for many low-income women of color, includ- health insurance, and decimate the Medicare enroll before 2020 and maintain continuous ing many of our members, Planned Parent- program. coverage. It is widely understood that there hood is their essential health provider. For SEIU, is significant churn on and off the program these individuals, healthcare is not an ideo- May 2, 2017. in this coverage category, and thus over logical struggle or about the politics of one DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 2 time the reimbursement rates for states will million members of the Service Employees policy versus another; it is a necessity that drop. The resulting large cost shift to states International Union (SEIU), America’s larg- could mean the difference between sickness may lead them to eliminate coverage for this est healthcare union, I write to voice strong and health. group altogether. In fact, seven states have The real winners of the AHCA appear to be opposition to the American Health Care Act triggers that would end the Medicaid expan- special interests and the wealthy. The legis- (AHCA). New provisions in the legislation sion in their state if federal reimbursement lation repeals most if not all of the ACA tax manage to make a bad bill worse. Not only decreases. does the bill cause millions to lose insurance provisions for special interests like the phar- Lastly, Medicaid provider rates are already maceutical and insurance industries, offset- coverage, face higher costs, and end Med- extremely low in most states. Cuts to Med- icaid as we know it, but now it also strips es- ting these costs with the massive cuts to icaid, capped funding, and elimination of the Medicaid described above. The bill also sential protections for those with pre-exist- Medicaid expansion would lead to further re- ing conditions. The AHCA will leave millions maintains the so-called ‘‘Cadillac tax,’’ ductions in rates for providers, leading to job which places a tax on workers who have ro- of men, women, and children without access and other spending cuts in the health care to high quality, affordable health care. The bust health coverage, merely delaying imple- industry that will have ripple effects on the mentation to 2026. Implementation of the tax AHCA legislation unequivocally jeopardizes broader economy. We have serious concerns working families’ safety, health, and finan- will punish people who have decent insur- that hospitals, especially those that serve ance, and will encourage employers to fur- cial security. communities that may not have access to The AHCA will leave millions of Ameri- ther shift health costs to workers. Further- many providers, could be forced to close or cans without health insurance and therefore more, the incentives for health savings ac- cut back services, further reducing access to without access to healthcare. The last avail- counts, which encourage wealthier people to care in underserved areas. able estimate from the nonpartisan Congres- shelter pre-tax income, are of little use to Those who purchase coverage in the indi- working households earning low-to moderate sional Budget Office (CBO) estimated about vidual market do not fare much better under 14 million fewer people will have health in- incomes. the proposed bill. The AHCA provides tax surance in 2018, and by 2026, 24 million fewer The AHCA is not care, it is chaos. The leg- credits ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to indi- people will have coverage compared to the islation creates an environment of uncer- viduals to purchase private insurance—sub- current baseline under the ACA. Unfortu- tainty and unaffordability for Americans and stantially lower than the ACA’s current lev- nately, we do not have more up to date infor- is a bad deal for working families. The bill els for the majority of those who receive mation. Despite the importance that radically restructures Medicaid as we know them. Unlike the ACA, it is unclear that peo- healthcare plays in the lives of working fam- it and cuts funding for the program signifi- ple with access to employer insurance that is ilies, Congressional leaders have indicated cantly, endangers women’s health, and fur- unaffordable or inadequate will be eligible that they intend to hold a vote on the legis- ther enriches corporations, special interests, for credits, which would mean that they will lation without knowing its impact. and the wealthiest Americans at the expense The AHCA also decimates the Medicaid be left without access to coverage and care. of working families’ access to healthcare and program, rationing and endangering The bill also creates an age tax on older financial stability. The American people will healthcare for children, seniors, people with Americans by letting insurance companies hold you accountable for how you proceed in disabilities, and their families as well as for charge people over 60 as much as five times this moment. We therefore respectfully ask those who have gained coverage as a result what they charge others for the same cov- you vote no on the American Health Care of the Medicaid expansion. According to erage. CBO found that under the initial bill Act and the proposed amendments to the leg- CBO, the legislation will cut federal funding introduced, premiums for those between age islation when it comes to a vote in the House for Medicaid by $880 billion over ten years. 50 and 65 would sky-rocket. Moreover, it is of Representatives. We will add this vote to Americans know that Medicaid is working unclear what coverage will be available on our legislative scorecard. If you need any ad- and realize the key role that the program the individual market or if the current ditional information please contact Ilene plays in helping families afford care—includ- healthcare marketplaces will even still exist Stein, Assistant Legislative Director. ing nursing home care and home and commu- under this scheme. Between premiums and Sincerely, nity-based services for elderly and disabled out of pocket costs like deductibles, espe- MARY KAY HENRY, individuals. Nearly 1 in 5 Americans are cov- cially for those most in need of care due to International President. pre-existing conditions, illness, or age, the ered under Medicaid and rely on it to get Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, the health services Under the AHCA, those result could be higher costs for less coverage. Americans would lose access to vital care A bad bill has managed to have been made House majority has once again made that may mean the difference between life even worse by the ‘‘MacArthur-Meadows clear that, under Republican rule, the and death. Amendment.’’ The amendment guts essential system is rigged. The fix is in. The Additionally, the AHCA would cap the protections for those with pre-existing condi- deck is stacked against hardworking amount of money states receive in Medicaid tions. It would allow states to charge those Americans, and exhibit A is your reck- funding from the federal government each with pre-existing conditions higher pre- less Republican healthcare plan. Under miums by allowing states to very easily year, regardless of the cost of providing TrumpCare, 24 million Americans will healthcare to those who qualify. Medicaid is waive community rating requirements, already a lean program especially when which currently prohibits this practice. Fur- lose access to health insurance. Under measured on a per capita basis, and cuts thermore it would grant states, through a TrumpCare, a draconian age tax will be from capping federal funding will quickly waiver that is approved by default, the abil- imposed on people between 50 and 64. force states to cut services, limit enroll- ity to opt out of essential health benefit re- Under TrumpCare, costs will go up, ment, and decrease payments to hospitals quirements, a core set of medical services, premiums will go up, copays will go up, and other providers. Also, Medicaid is the like hospitalizations, mental health, mater- deductibles will go up. Under largest payer for long term care in the coun- nity care and prescription drug coverage, TrumpCare, tens of millions of Ameri- try. The program pays for more than 60 per- which all insurers are required to cover cent of all nursing home residents and for under the ACA. If states waive requirements, cans who are living with preexisting more than 3.2 million Americans with home- insurers could leave those who are sick or conditions will be screwed. and community-based care, which allows with pre-existing conditions out to fend for House Republicans are out to destroy many older Americans and people with dis- themselves and face exorbitant costs to get the American healthcare system as we abilities to remain in their homes rather life-saving care they need. Experts agree know it, but you will be held account- than move to a more expensive institutional that the funding included in the ‘‘Upton- able for the cruel and unusual punish- setting. States—which must balance budgets Long Amendment’’ is completely inadequate ment that you have decided to inflict and already face fiscal pressures—will not be to protect those with pre-existing condi- on the American people. able to make up the lost federal dollars and tions. The Administration and Congressional Vote ‘‘no’’ against this draconian will be forced to deny care. The inevitable Leaders promised to the American people piece of legislation. result will be that the AHCA will make it that those with pre-existing conditions The SPEAKER pro tempore. The much harder and more costly for older Amer- would remain protected—this bill even with icans, people with disabilities, and their fam- added amendments defaults on that promise. Chair would remind Members to direct ilies to get services they need. Another failure of the AHCA is that it their remarks to this Chair. In addition, the legislation will effectively hurts women by freezing funding to pro- Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I reserve end the Medicaid expansion, which provides viders like Planned Parenthood, risking the the balance of my time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.077 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4154 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, In 2011, she had just landed her first job out Then there was the economy. After a slow I include in the RECORD an article in of college, as a teacher with AmeriCorps, she and steady recovery following the housing Consumer Reports dated May 2, 2017, explains in a phone interview. That’s when crisis of 2008, Leibowitz explains that Amer- entitled: ‘‘How the Affordable Care Act the unusual numbness in her hand began, ican consumers generally had fewer prob- which she—and her doctor—at first mistook lems with their mortgages, better employ- Drove Down Personal Bankruptcy.’’ for a pinched nerve. ment prospects, and greater access to credit, HOW THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT DROVE DOWN Then came debilitating headaches and nau- which made them less likely to file. PERSONAL BANKRUPTCY sea and, ultimately, a diagnosis of medullo- The final factor, according to Leibowitz, EXPANDED HEALTH INSURANCE HELPED CUT THE blastoma, a fast-growing cancerous brain has been the ACA, which afforded health cov- NUMBER OF FILINGS BY HALF tumor. erage to many more consumers and expanded (By Allen St. John) The treatment for her tumor was straight- protections for all. As legislators and the executive branch forward: surgery, radiation, then chemo- Of course, not everyone sees such a direct renew their efforts to repeal and replace the therapy. Figuring out how to pay for it was connection between the decline in bank- Affordable Care Act this week, they might much less clear. She worried that the insur- ruptcies and the emergence of the ACA. Thomas P. Miller, resident fellow at the want to keep in mind a little-known finan- ance she had through AmeriCorps wouldn’t American Enterprise Institute and co-author cial consequence of the ACA: Since its adop- cover enough of her bills. ‘‘My dad said to me, ‘Your health is the of ‘‘Why ObamaCare is Wrong for America’’ tion, far fewer Americans have taken the ex- most important thing. If you have to declare (HarperCollins, 2011), cautioned against treme step of filing for personal bankruptcy. Filings have dropped about 50 percent, bankruptcy at age 23, it’s no big deal,’ ’’ ‘‘reaching broad conclusions’’ because the from 1,536,799 in 2010 to 770,846 in 2016 (see Weber says. subject is so complex. chart, below). Those years also represent the Because of the ACA, she says, it never ‘‘Certainly there are fewer people declaring time frame when the ACA took effect. Al- came to that. After her year with bankruptcy, and certainly fewer are declar- though courts never ask people to declare AmeriCorps, the new healthcare law enabled ing bankruptcy because of healthcare spend- why they’re filing, many bankruptcy and her to get coverage under her parents’ insur- ing,’’ he says. But his earlier research sug- legal experts agree that medical bills had ance plan. gested that some studies exaggerated the de- been a leading cause of personal bankruptcy The ACA provisions required that the fam- gree to which high healthcare bills cause before public healthcare coverage expanded ily’s insurance company cover her even bankruptcies. ‘‘They tended to reflect other under the ACA. Unlike other causes of debt, though she had already been diagnosed with problems with credit card balances well be- medical bills are often unexpected, involun- cancer. That would not have been the case yond healthcare,’’ he says. ‘‘It stems from tary, and large. before the ACA, which mandates the cov- multiple causes.’’ ‘‘If you’re uninsured or underinsured, you erage of pre-existing conditions for all con- FIGURING OUT WHY sumers. can run up a huge debt in a short period of Over the past decade, determining the Later, when she aged out of her parents’ time,’’ says Lois Lupica, a bankruptcy ex- cause-and-effect relationship between med- insurance, Weber was able to enroll in Apple pert and Maine Law Foundation Professor of ical debt and bankruptcy has become a polit- Health, Washington state’s version of Med- Law at the University of Maine School of ical football, particularly during the years icaid, a program that was expanded once the Law. the Obama administration was trying to pass ACA was passed. That coverage, she says, So did the rise of the ACA—which helped the ACA through Congress. has been crucial to her financial and medical some 20 million more Americans get health The truth is that it’s not that easy to de- well-being, especially once the cancer re- insurance—cause the decline in bank- termine how many bankruptcies are caused turned last fall. ruptcies? by medical debt. Examining the paperwork Weber says she now spends more time dis- The many experts we interviewed also doesn’t always offer insight because debtors cussing treatment options and less time wor- pointed to two other contributing factors: an often juggle their indebtedness, for example, rying how she’ll pay for MRIs and drugs. improving economy and changes to bank- using a credit card to pay an outstanding These are covered in full under her Apple ruptcy laws in 2005 that made it more dif- medical bill while leaving other debts un- Health policy. ficult and costly to file. However, they al- paid. ‘‘Cancer is really expensive,’’ she says. most all agreed that expanded health cov- But a 2014 study from Daniel Austin, a ‘‘My insurance saved my life.’’ erage played a major role in the marked, re- bankruptcy attorney and, at the time, a pro- cent decline. NUMBERS PLUMMET fessor at the Northeastern University School Some of the most important financial pro- If you want further testimony about how of Law, offers some of the most in-depth re- tections of the ACA apply to all consumers, much personal bankruptcies have dropped search to date. whether they get their coverage through over the past decade, talk to Susan Austin and his team selected a nationwide ACA exchanges or the private insurance Grossberg, a Springfield, Mass., attorney. group of 100 bankruptcy filers meant to rep- marketplace. These provisions include man- For more than 20 years she has helped con- resent a cross-section of the U.S. population, dated coverage for pre-existing conditions sumers push the financial reset button when studied their paperwork, then followed up and, on most covered benefits, an end to an- debt triggered by divorce, unemployment, or with a survey asking filers, basically, nual and lifetime coverage caps. Aspects of a costly illness or medical episode became ‘‘Why?’’ the law, including provisions for young peo- too much to handle. ‘‘Medical debt can get His team’s research found that medical ple to be covered by a family policy until age really big really quickly,’’ Grossberg says. debt is the single largest factor in personal 26, went into effect in 2010 and 2011, before ‘‘When you’re in the emergency room they’re bankruptcy. First, Austin analyzed the pa- the full rollout of the ACA in 2014. not checking your credit score while they’re perwork of individual case files, which sug- ‘‘It’s absolutely remarkable,’’ says Jim caring for you.’’ gested that medical bills were a factor in 18 Molleur, a Maine-based bankruptcy attorney With the advent of the ACA—and before percent of filings. But when he directly with 20 years of experience. ‘‘We’re not get- that, expanded state healthcare in Massa- asked the same filers, in a survey, the num- ting people with big medical bills, chron- chusetts—she says fewer clients with large ber was even higher, with 25 percent citing ically sick people who would hit those life- medical debts walked through her door. medical bills as a factor in their decision to time caps or be denied because of pre-exist- Grossberg adds that her bankruptcy busi- file bankruptcy. ing conditions. They seemed to disappear al- ness has slowed so much that she has been In addition to the nationwide group, Aus- most overnight once ACA kicked in.’’ forced to take on other kinds of legal work— tin isolated a group of 100 bankruptcy filers The first attempt to repeal and replace the landlord-tenant and housing discrimination from Massachusetts. Why Massachusetts? ACA, in March, failed to gain enough Con- cases—to cover her own bills. Because its citizens, starting in 2006, had gressional support and never came to a vote. The American Bankruptcy Institute sug- been covered by a comprehensive state Then in April, details of a new replacement gested that veteran Chicago bankruptcy at- healthcare program similar to the ACA plan were released. Although President Don- torney and trustee David Leibowitz could known as Romneycare, after the state’s ald Trump has said that this new version, also help parse the reasons for the former governor, Mitt Romney. like the first bill that was pulled from con- decadelong decline. The differences between the two groups sideration, will cover pre-existing condi- First, he says, the Bankruptcy Abuse Pre- were striking. Even though the Massachu- tions, the revised law gives states broad lati- vention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 setts filers owed substantially more in unse- tude to allow insurance companies to in- made it more difficult for consumers to file cured debt (that is, debt not backed by a crease rates for consumers with an existing for bankruptcy. The law required credit home, a car, or another asset) than their illness. counseling and income verification and counterparts in other states, they reported A RARE AND COSTLY DIAGNOSIS forced many consumers to seek protection less than half as much medical debt, which is Since the start of the year, more than 2,000 under Chapter 13, which restructures, but also unsecured. consumers have answered an online ques- does not eliminate, most debt. The piles of ‘‘The average medical debt in Massachu- tionnaire from Consumer Reports’ advocacy paperwork also meant most filers needed a setts in 2013 was relatively low at just $3,041 and mobilization team, sharing their experi- lawyer, which made bankruptcy more costly (6 percent of total unsecured debt) compared ences with the ACA. Katie Weber of Seattle and therefore not an option for many poor to $8,594 (20 percent of total unsecured debt) was one of them. consumers. nationwide,’’ Austin writes in his 2014 study,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.078 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4155 portions of which were published in the Couch began caring about healthcare as a Mr. Speaker, let me make it plain. Maine Law Review. high school senior when she was diagnosed Let’s put this bill in a coffin, not ‘‘Only about 9 percent of Massachusetts with lupus and since then has become some- Americans. Let’s kill and bury this debtors felt their bankruptcy filing was a re- thing of a reluctant expert on how to man- bill. sult of medical bills,’’ Austin explains. ‘‘This age not only her treatment but also the in- 1 compares to 25 percent for debtors from surance that pays for it. Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ⁄2 [other] jurisdictions.’’ Austin’s research With friends and neighbors she talks about minutes to the gentleman from Lou- found that comprehensive medical coverage the law in simple but personal terms. ‘‘I tell isiana (Mr. SCALISE), our distinguished in Massachusetts had all but eliminated people, ‘I have a pre-existing condition, and whip. medical bills as a cause for bankruptcy. this has helped me,’ ’’ she says of the ACA. Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank ‘‘Not only in absolute numbers—they had Couch follows the healthcare debate in the chairwoman of the Budget Com- much smaller medical debt—but psycho- Washington so closely because she knows mittee for yielding. logically, medical debt did not loom nearly firsthand what happens when you don’t have I was in strong support of this bill, adequate coverage. as large for people in Massachusetts as it did Mr. Speaker, that finally provides re- for other people in other states.’’ And in 2010, Couch remembers the time, before the four years after Romneycare began, the state ACA, when a new immunosuppressive drug lief to the American people across this had a bankruptcy rate that was about 30 per- that wasn’t covered by her policy became country from the failures of cent lower than that of other states. available. ‘‘It was expensive,’’ she explained ObamaCare. in an interview, ‘‘but it worked, and I knew IN SEARCH OF CERTAINTY, CONSISTENCY Just how bad is it failing? I needed it. Every month I’d just put it on a You don’t have to look any further At its most basic level, health insurance credit card. When your medication is thou- allows consumers to pay for the medical care than what happened in Iowa yesterday, sands of dollars a month, that’s the start of where literally they are going to have they need. Each year, the Centers for Disease being in debt.’’ She considered bankruptcy Control and Prevention determines how well but ultimately worked her way out from in 94 out of 99 counties nobody to write the system is working by surveying Ameri- under the pile of medical bills. insurance for people that are in the cans and asking a simple but powerful ques- As a result of the ACA, her coverage shift- ObamaCare exchanges. tion: Did you have problems paying medical ed again when her employer no longer of- So what do the people, Mr. Speaker, bills in the last 12 months? fered a traditional plan and she had to that are opposed to this bill say to The percentage of those reporting prob- switch to one with a high $3,000 deductible. those millions of people in Iowa who lems has dropped from 21.3 percent of house- Initially she was stunned by her out-of-pock- are about to have no place to go to get holds when they first asked the question in et costs, but she quickly realized that her 2011 to 16.2 percent in 2016. That’s almost 13 total costs would be capped once she’d met health care? million fewer Americans no longer facing that threshold. What are the people that oppose this collection notices from a doctor or hospital. ‘‘It seemed scary and it seemed different,’’ bill, Mr. Speaker, going to say to the ‘‘It’s been happening across the board, by she explains. ‘‘But it actually saved me millions of people with preexisting con- race, by age, by insurance status, by gen- money.’’ And now, she says, ‘‘I don’t have to ditions across the country who are der,’’ says Robin Cohen, the study’s lead au- worry about how much a new drug costs.’’ being faced with double-digit increases thor. So on the March day the House of Rep- in their health insurance every year resentatives was supposed to vote on repeal- But insurance is also about peace of mind. and, oh, by the way, premiums and And judging from the consumers who have ing the ACA, she worried that the insurance shared their stories with Consumer Reports, she’d come to depend on was about to be deductibles as high as over $10,000, that certainty is in short supply as the fate yanked away. Only after emerging from a which are creaming those folks that of the ACA is decided. People are wondering client meeting did she learn the vote had are struggling under the weight of this what comes next: Repeal? Replace? Improve? been canceled. ‘‘I started crying I was so bill? Retain and neglect? No one really knows the happy,’’ Couch recalls. ‘‘It’s like a weight So what we are replacing it with, Mr. answer. Americans are concerned about how has lifted.’’ Speaker, are reforms that actually the future of healthcare will affect them and But Couch’s relief was short-lived. Now she’s back to paying close attention to the lower premiums, that actually put pa- their families. tients back in charge of their In CR’s Consumer Voices survey in Janu- rhetoric and vote-counting deals in Wash- ary 2017, 55 percent of consumers said they ington, awaiting another possible vote on healthcare decisions so that elitists up lacked confidence that they or their loved the newly revised plan. ‘‘I’m still opti- here in Washington won’t tell you what ones would be able to afford insurance to se- mistic,’’ she said this week. ‘‘I think enough you have to buy. You actually get to cure that care. people will stand up and fight for the cov- make that choice yourself. Don Shope of Ocean View, Del., said the erage.’’ availability of ACA coverage gave him the Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. I yield 1 b 1300 confidence to leave a corporate job and start minute to the gentleman from New You get to focus on plans that are his own consulting business. But now, with Jersey (Mr. NORCROSS). good for your family at lower costs so the ACA’s future in limbo, he and his wife Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, a that you can be in charge. And, by the are watching the action in Washington and month ago I was ready to speak right way, reforming the Medicaid system, worrying that they might have to return to here on the floor when this bill was one of the most broken forms of health jobs with benefits. ‘‘I’m not a liberal or a conservative, a abruptly removed. Apparently, it care so that States actually have the Democrat or a Republican,’’ Shope said in a wasn’t bad enough that day, it wasn’t ability to innovate and help low-in- phone interview. ‘‘Our biggest concern is harmful enough. But now it is back come families. that with repeal and replace we’re going to worse than ever. So bad, it might actu- This bill is important, Mr. Speaker, be left high and dry.’’ ally pass. to rescue the American people from a He also believes in expanded health cov- I don’t have a lot of time to explain, law that has failed dismally. Let’s end erage for all. ‘‘If any American is sick, we but let me tell you two groups that are the skyrocketing premium increases. should be willing to take care of them,’’ really going to say thank you: it is the Let’s lower costs and put patients back Shope says. ‘‘It’s the right thing to do. Eco- billionaires and it is the undertakers. nomics and profit shouldn’t be part of the in charge of their healthcare decisions. healthcare equation.’’ This bill will make health care more Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, unaffordable and cause preventable HANGING ON EVERY DIP AND TURN I remind my colleague that his vote for deaths. Meanwhile, it gives $600 bil- this bill can take away protections for And then there’s Kristin Couch, who has lion—excuse me—$800 billion to the channeled the uncertainty into her own over 800,000 people with preexisting brand of activism. wealthy, to the billionaires. conditions in Louisiana. For example, ‘‘I was kind of anxious,’’ Couch says about TrumpCare brings us higher costs, less those with breast cancer could see the day in March when Congress was set to coverage, guts the benefits, has a their premiums go up by over $34,000. vote on a less robust bill that would replace crushing age tax, and steals from Medi- Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the the ACA. care. In my district alone, 43,000 people gentlewoman from Delaware (Ms. The 31-year-old public relations executive, will lose coverage. 9,000 of those are BLUNT ROCHESTER). of Gainesville, Ga., has started to follow children. The elderly, Medicaid will be (Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER asked and health-care politics in the intense, almost obsessive way some people follow sports. The lost, close to 2,000. was given permission to revise and ex- morning after Election Day, she called the There is a reason they are trying to tend her remarks.) offices of her local congressional representa- jam this down our throats. There is no Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. tives, urging them to preserve the protec- CBO score because they don’t want to Speaker, I include in the RECORD a let- tions the ACA offers. hear a score. ter from AARP which makes clear

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.057 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4156 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 health care will be sabotaged under millions of older Americans who cannot af- tions, and transportation). Older adults and this bill, and healthcare costs for older ford their health care, including many sim- people with disabilities now account for over Americans will ‘‘dramatically in- ply losing their health care. Based on CBO sixty percent of Medicaid spending, and cuts crease.’’ estimates, approximately 14 million Ameri- of this magnitude will result in loss of bene- cans will lose coverage next year, while a fits and services for this vulnerable popu- [From the House Democratic Leader’s Press total of 24 million Americans would lose cov- lation. Office, May 3, 2017] erage over the next 10 years. Of these 17.4 million individuals: 6.9 mil- AARP PRESS RELEASE: NEW CHANGES TO THE Affordability of both premiums and cost- lion are ages 65 and older (which equals more AHCA MAKES A BAD BILL WORSE! sharing is critical to older Americans and than 1 in every 7 elderly Medicare bene- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: Older Americans their ability to obtain and access health ficiaries); 10.5 million are children and adults care deeply about access to and affordability care. A typical 50–64 year old seeking cov- living with disabilities; and about 10.8 mil- of health care. With the addition of the erage through an exchange has a median an- lion are so poor or have a disability that Upton Amendment, as reported, we once nual income of under $25,000 and already they qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid again write to share our opposition to the pays significant out-of-pocket costs for (dual eligibles). Dual eligibles account for al- American Health Care Act (AHCA) and urge health care. We have serious concerns—rein- most 33 percent of Medicaid spending. While you to vote NO. Changes under consideration forced by the CBO estimate—that the bill they comprise a relatively small percentage that would allow states to waive important under consideration will dramatically in- of enrollees, they account for a dispropor- consumer protections—allowing insurance crease health care costs for 50–64 year olds tionate share of total Medicare and Medicaid companies to once again charge Americans who purchase health care through an ex- spending. with pre-existing conditions more because change due both to the changes in age rating Individuals with disabilities of all ages and they’ve had cancer, diabetes or heart dis- from 3:1 (already a compromise that requires older adults rely on critical Medicaid serv- ease—would make a bad bill even worse. This uninsured older Americans to pay three ices, including home and community-based would be devastating for the 25 million times more than younger individuals) to 5:1 services (HCBS) for assistance with daily ac- Americans 50–64 who have a deniable pre- (or more) and reductions in current tax cred- tivities such as eating, bathing, dressing, existing condition. The Upton amendment its for older Americans. CBO concluded that and home modifications; nursing home care; would do little to reduce the massive pre- the bill will substantially raise premiums for and other benefits such as hearing aids and mium increases for those with pre-existing older people and force many into lower qual- eyeglasses. In providing a fixed amount of federal conditions. ity plans. funding per person, this approach to financ- Throughout consideration of the AHCA, we Age rating plus reduced tax credits equal ing would likely result in overwhelming cost have been expressing serious concerns about an unaffordable age tax. Our previous esti- shifts to states, state taxpayers, and families the impact that this legislation will have on mates on the age-rating change showed that unable to shoulder the costs of care without older Americans. The Congressional Budget premiums for current coverage could in- sufficient federal support. This would result Office (CBO)’s last estimate further dem- crease by up to $3,200 for a 64 year old. In ad- in cuts to program eligibility, services, or onstrates the harmful impact of this bill on dition, the bill reduced the tax credits avail- both—ultimately harming some of our na- older Americans and some of our most vul- able for older Americans to help purchase in- tion’s most vulnerable citizens. nerable. Specifically, the American Health surance. We estimate that the bill’s changes Care Act will weaken the fiscal sustain- to current law’s tax credits alone could in- Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. ability of Medicare; dramatically increase crease premium costs by more than $5,800 for Speaker, I know in these polarized premium and out-of-pocket costs for 50–64 a 64-year old earning $15,000. Overall, both times we often forget our actual con- the bill’s tax credit changes and 5:1 age rat- year olds purchasing coverage on the indi- nections to each other, but we are all vidual insurance market; allow insurance ing would result in skyrocketing cost in- creases for older Americans. In their anal- connected. A sick, uninsured employee companies to once again discriminate affects the bottom line of a small busi- against those with pre-existing conditions; ysis, CBO found that a 64 year old earning substantially increase the number of Ameri- $26,500 a year would see their premiums in- ness. Uncompensated care in the emer- cans without insurance; and put at risk mil- crease by $12,900—758 percent—from $1,700 to gency room, we all pay the bill. When lions of children and adults with disabilities $14,600 a year. a child from an uninsured family goes and poor seniors who depend on the Medicaid Current law prohibits insurance companies to school with an undiagnosed virus, program to access long-term services and from discriminating against individuals due not only does it impact his or her abil- supports and other benefits. to a pre-existing condition. The bill would repeal pre-existing condition protections and ity to learn, it impacts other kids and Our members and others 50 years of age puts them at risk. We are all con- and older care deeply about health care and would once again allow insurance companies to charge Americans more—we estimate up nected. want to know where their elected leaders As Martin Luther King so powerfully stand. Recognizing the importance of the up- to $25,000 more—due to a pre-existing condi- coming vote on the American Health Care tion. As a result, the 4o percent of 50- to 64- said: ‘‘We may have come over on dif- Act, AARP intends to inform our members, year-olds (about 25 million people) who have ferent ships, but we are all in the same and others over age 50, how their elected offi- a deniable preexisting condition risk losing boat now.’’ cials voted. We’ll communicate the results of access to affordable coverage. The Upton Mr. Speaker, it is time we start row- the vote in our widely-circulated publica- Amendment, which would add funds to ad- ing together. Unfortunately, this bill dress the impact of premium increases for tions, in e-mail alerts, in our online chan- fails to recognize this. It still fails that nels, and through the media. Again, we urge those with pre-existing conditions, would do little to mitigate the massive premium in- we are connected, and, instead of bring- all Representatives to vote NO on the Amer- ing us together, this simply divides us ican Health Care Act in its current form. crease for some of the most vulnerable Americans. AARP strongly opposes any by providing less coverage, imposing an MEDICARE weakening of the law’s pre-existing condi- age tax, forcing people to pay more, The American Health Care Act repeals pro- tion protections which benefit millions of and stripping key protections. visions in current law that have strength- Americans. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues ened Medicare’s fiscal outlook, specifically, MEDICAID AND LONG-TERM SERVICES AND to vote ‘‘no’’ on H.R. 1628. the repeal of the additional 0.9 percent pay- SUPPORTS roll tax on higher-income workers. Repeal- Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I continue AARP opposes the provisions of the Amer- ing this provision would remove billions to reserve the balance of my time. ican Health Care Act that create a per capita from the Hospital Insurance trust fund, has- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, cap financing structure in the Medicaid pro- ten the insolvency of Medicare, and diminish I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from gram. We are concerned that these provi- Medicare’s ability to pay for services in the Illinois (Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI). sions could endanger the health, safety, and future. care of millions of individuals who depend on (Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI asked and INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE INSURANCE MARKET the essential services provided through Med- was given permission to revise and ex- Currently, about 25 million Americans age icaid. CBO found that the bill would cut tend his remarks.) 50–64 have a pre-existing condition, about 6.1 Medicaid funding by $880 billion over 2017– Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. I include in million purchase insurance in the non-group 2026, about 25 percent less than what it the RECORD a letter from the American market, and nearly 3.2 million are currently projects under current law. Medicaid is a Medical Association that states: ‘‘Not eligible to receive subsidies for health insur- vital safety net and intergenerational life- only would the AHCA eliminate health ance coverage through either the federal line for millions of individuals, including insurance coverage for millions of health benefits exchange or a state-based ex- over 17.4 million low-income seniors and Americans, the legislation would, in change (exchange). Since passage of the children and adults with disabilities who ACA, the number of 50–64 year old Americans rely on the program for critical health care many cases, eliminate the ban against who are uninsured has dropped by half. We and long-term services and supports (LTSS, charging those with underlying med- are deeply concerned that the AHCA would i.e., assistance with daily activities such as ical conditions vastly more for their be a significant step backwards and result in eating, bathing, dressing, managing medica- coverage.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.080 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4157 [From the American Medical Association, never forget what we do today, espe- to ignore the previous experience with state May 3, 2017] cially if we make the wrong choice and high-risk pools. By segregating those with AMA WARNS THAT PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE adopt this bill. pre-existing conditions into separate cov- AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT DO NOT REM- The 159 million Americans whose em- erage we know they will face higher pre- EDY BILL’S SHORTCOMINGS ployer-sponsored health care could be miums, benefit exclusions, annual and life- time limits on coverage and waiting lists. DESPITE AMENDMENTS TO BILL, MILLIONS OF cut would never forget. Neither would It is unacceptable that this bill eliminates AMERICANS WOULD STILL LOSE HEALTH IN- the 24 million Americans who would $500 billion in taxes on the wealthiest 2%, SURANCE COVERAGE lose their coverage or the 52 million health insurers, pharmaceutical manufactur- CHICAGO—American Medical Association people with preexisting conditions who ers and medical device makers, while taking (AMA) President Andrew W. Gurman, M.D., health care away from millions. Moreover, issued the following statement today about would struggle to find health insurance again. the bill retains the 40% tax on high cost proposed changes to the American Health health plans, which will undermine em- Care Act (AHCA): If this bill passes, Mr. Speaker, no cancer survivor denied coverage will ployer-sponsored insurance for working fam- ‘‘None of the legislative tweaks under con- ilies by hollowing out coverage and increas- sideration changes the serious harm to pa- forget, no survivor of sexual assault ing out-of-pocket expenses, although it tients and the health care delivery system if charged more for her ordeal will forget, delays the implementation for six years. AHCA passes. Proposed changes to the bill and no parent struggling to afford The bottom line is that this bill would tinker at the edges without remedying the emergency surgery for a newborn child cause millions to lose their health coverage. fundamental failing of the bill—that mil- could ever forget. They would not have Most of those with pre-existing conditions lions of Americans will lose their health in- that choice. would return to the days when even inad- surance as a direct result of this proposal. equate coverage was unaffordable. The bill ‘‘High-risk pools are not a new idea. Prior But today, we have one. We can choose to vote no and prevent millions would drive up costs for those who are older to the enactment of the Affordable Care Act, and lower-income, shift costs to states, fail 35 states operated high-risk pools, and they of Americans from losing their health to protect employer-sponsored coverage, were not a panacea for Americans with pre- care. We can choose the right path weaken public health and undermine the sol- existing medical conditions. The history of rooted in morality, decency, and rea- vency of the Medicare trust fund all the high-risk pools demonstrates that Americans son. I implore you, vote ‘‘no.’’ while providing tax cuts for the wealthy and with pre-existing conditions will be stuck in Mrs. BLACK. I continue to reserve well-connected. second-class health care coverage—if they the balance of my time. The priorities demonstrated by this bill are able to obtain coverage at all. are upside down. We urge you to oppose this ‘‘Not only would the AHCA eliminate Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from bill. health insurance coverage for millions of Sincerely, New York (Mr. ESPAILLAT). Americans, the legislation would, in many SCOTT FREY, cases, eliminate the ban against charging (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was Director of Federal Government Affairs. those with underlying medical conditions given permission to revise and extend Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I vastly more for their coverage.’’ his remarks.) ‘‘America should not go backward to the Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I in- strongly oppose this bill. We all should. Protecting ACA is the top issue for my time when our fellow citizens with pre-exist- clude in the RECORD a letter from ing health conditions faced high costs for AFSCME which states this bill would constituents. Constituents like Leslie limited coverage, if they were able to obtain cause millions to lose their health cov- Gauthier who, without the protections coverage at all. The AMA urges congres- of the ACA, would not have gotten the sional leaders and the Administration to erage and return to the days when even inadequate coverage was unaffordable. treatment for leukemia that she was pursue a bipartisan dialogue on alternative diagnosed just at the age of 22. policies that provide patients with access AFSCME, Leslie is now in remission thanks to and coverage to high quality care and pre- May 3, 2017. serve the safety net for vulnerable popu- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ObamaCare. For Leslie, the ACA pro- lations.’’ Washington, DC. tections like essential health benefits BACKGROUND ON HIGH-RISK POOLS DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 1.6 were a matter of life and death. This million working and retiree members of the A January report from the American Acad- Republican bill would destroy those pa- American Federation of State, County and emy of Actuaries notes that ‘‘enrollment has tient protections. Municipal Employees (AFSCME), I am writ- generally been low, coverage has been lim- Under the ACA in my district: a 5- ing to express our continuing opposition to ited and expensive, they require external percent drop in uninsured rates; sub- the American Health Care Act (AHCA), not- funding, and they have typically operated at sidies based on income and region and withstanding the addition of the Upton a loss . . . Removing high-risk individuals amendment. not on age; Medicaid Expansion cov- from the insured risk pools reduces costs in The harm that AHCA will impose on ordi- ering of 156,000 people will be lost. the private market only temporarily. Over nary Americans is breathtaking in scope. As The President promised not to cut time, even lower-cost individuals in the indi- the Congressional Budget Office has detailed, Medicaid. This bill guts it by $880 bil- vidual market can incur high health care 24 million will lose their health care cov- costs, which would put upward pressure on lion. This bill is a gut punch to Amer- erage. The Medicaid program will be cut by premiums.’’ ica. Pregnant women seeking health $839 billion and restructured, ending the According to the Kaiser Family Founda- care, kicked to the curb. Patients with guarantee that the federal government will tion: State high-risk pools featured pre- preexisting conditions, kicked to the fund a specified share of state Medicaid miums above standard non-group market costs. The bill makes coverage more expen- curb. Senior citizens who will have to rates—with most states capping them at sive, especially for lower-income families pay more for less, kicked to curb. Over 150%–200% of standard rates. Many also fea- and older workers and it undermines the fi- 24 million people, including 6.5 million tured high deductibles, some $5,000 or more. nancial strength of Medicare. And the Mac- Latinos, kicked to the curb. Despite the fact that many individuals Arthur amendment makes a very bad bill were forced into high-risk pools because of a Mr. Speaker, we demand Republicans worse by allowing states to opt out of Af- pre-existing condition, nearly all states ex- stop kicking to the curb Americans. fordable Care Act protections that ensure cluded coverage for these conditions for 6–12 Stop this bill. that people with pre-existing conditions will months. Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I continue Almost all high-risk pools imposed life- be able to obtain comprehensive, affordable to reserve the balance of my time. time limits on covered services, and some health care. Moreover, the MacArthur Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, imposed annual limits. amendment would allow insurance compa- nies to re-impose caps on annual and life- I yield to the gentlewoman from Cali- Some states capped or closed enrollment. fornia (Ms. LEE) for the purpose of a Combined net losses for the state high-risk time limits, even in employer-sponsored cov- pools totaled more than $1.2 billion for 2011, erage, putting the health care of those with unanimous consent request. or $5,510 per enrollee, on average. catastrophic illnesses or injuries at risk. (Ms. LEE asked and was given per- Furthermore, a 2010 paper by James Under the Upton amendment, grants to mission to revise and extend her re- Capretta and Tom Miller that appeared in states that could be used for high-risk pools marks.) National Affairs estimated that the cost of will be increased by 6% or $8 billion over five Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I include in years. This is a paltry increase. Even the adequately funded high risk pools would be the RECORD the Service Employees $15 billion to $20 billion per year. conservative Mercatus Center described the increase as a ‘‘pittance.’’ High-risk pools International Union’s letter voicing Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speak- would still be grossly underfunded, even if strong opposition to the deadly Amer- er, the country will not remember states put all of the $138 billion in grant ican Health Care Act for their 2 million what we say here today, but it will funding into them. We urge the Congress not Members.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.059 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4158 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 SEIU, coverage. It is widely understood that there hood is their essential health provider. For May 2, 2017. is significant churn on and off the program these individuals, healthcare is not an ideo- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 2 in this coverage category, and thus over logical struggle or about the politics of one million members of the Service Employees time the reimbursement rates for states will policy versus another; it is a necessity that International Union (SEIU), America’s larg- drop. The resulting large cost shift to states could mean the difference between sickness est healthcare union, I write to voice strong may lead them to eliminate coverage for this and health. opposition to the American Health Care Act group altogether. In fact, seven states have The real winners of the AHCA appear to be (AHCA). New provisions in the legislation triggers that would end the Medicaid expan- special interests and the wealthy. The legis- manage to make a bad bill worse. Not only sion in their state if federal reimbursement lation repeals most if not all of the ACA tax does the bill cause millions to lose insurance decreases. provisions for special interests like the phar- coverage, face higher costs, and end Med- Lastly, Medicaid provider rates are already maceutical and insurance industries, offset- icaid as we know it, but now it also strips es- extremely low in most states. Cuts to Med- ting these costs with the massive cuts to sential protections for those with pre-exist- icaid, capped funding, and elimination of the Medicaid described above. The bill also ing conditions. The AHCA will leave millions Medicaid expansion would lead to further re- maintains the so-called ‘‘Cadillac tax,’’ of men, women, and children without access ductions in rates for providers, leading to job which places a tax on workers who have ro- to high quality, affordable health care. The and other spending cuts in the health care bust health coverage, merely delaying imple- AHCA legislation unequivocally jeopardizes industry that will have ripple effects on the mentation to 2026. Implementation of the tax working families’ safety, health, and finan- broader economy. We have serious concerns will punish people who have decent insur- cial security. that hospitals, especially those that serve ance, and will encourage employers to fur- The AHCA will leave millions of Ameri- communities that may not have access to ther shift health costs to workers. Further- cans without health insurance and therefore many providers, could be forced to close or more, the incentives for health savings ac- without access to healthcare. The last avail- cut back services, further reducing access to counts, which encourage wealthier people to able estimate from the nonpartisan Congres- care in underserved areas. shelter pre-tax income, are of little use to sional Budget Office (CBO) estimated about Those who purchase coverage in the indi- working households earning low-to moderate 14 million fewer people will have health in- vidual market do not fare much better under incomes. surance in 2018, and by 2026, 24 million fewer the proposed bill. The AHCA provides tax The AHCA is not care, it is chaos. The leg- people will have coverage compared to the credits ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to indi- islation creates an environment of uncer- current baseline under the ACA. Unfortu- viduals to purchase private insurance—sub- tainty and unaffordability for Americans and nately, we do not have more up to date infor- stantially lower than the ACA’s current lev- is a bad deal for working families. The bill mation. Despite the importance that els for the majority of those who receive radically restructures Medicaid as we know healthcare plays in the lives of working fam- them. Unlike the ACA, it is unclear that peo- it and cuts funding for the program signifi- ilies, Congressional leaders have indicated ple with access to employer insurance that is cantly, endangers women’s health, and fur- that they intend to hold a vote on the legis- unaffordable or inadequate will be eligible ther enriches corporations, special interests, lation without knowing its impact. for credits, which would mean that they will and the wealthiest Americans at the expense The AHCA also decimates the Medicaid be left without access to coverage and care. of working families’ access to healthcare and program, rationing and endangering The bill also creates an age tax on older financial stability. The American people will healthcare for children, seniors, people with Americans by letting insurance companies hold you accountable for how you proceed in disabilities, and their families as well as for charge people over 60 as much as five times this moment. We therefore respectfully ask those who have gained coverage as a result what they charge others for the same cov- you vote no on the American Health Care of the Medicaid expansion. According to erage. CBO found that under the initial bill Act and the proposed amendments to the leg- CBO, the legislation will cut federal funding introduced, premiums for those between age islation when it comes to a vote in the House for Medicaid by $880 billion over ten years. 50 and 65 would sky-rocket. Moreover, it is of Representatives. We will add this vote to Americans know that Medicaid is working unclear what coverage will be available on our legislative scorecard. If you need any ad- and realize the key role that the program the individual market or if the current ditional information please contact Ilene plays in helping families afford care—includ- healthcare marketplaces will even still exist Stein, Assistant Legislative Director. ing nursing home care and home and commu- under this scheme. Between premiums and Sincerely, nity-based services for elderly and disabled out of pocket costs like deductibles, espe- MARY KAY HENRY, individuals. Nearly 1 in 5 Americans are cov- cially for those most in need of care due to International President. ered under Medicaid and rely on it to get pre-existing conditions, illness, or age, the health services. Under the AHCA, those result could be higher costs for less coverage. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Americans would lose access to vital care A bad bill has managed to have been made I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman that may mean the difference between life even worse by the ‘‘MacArthur-Meadows from California (Ms. MAXINE WATERS). and death. Amendment.’’ The amendment guts essential (Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California Additionally, the AHCA would cap the protections for those with pre-existing condi- asked and was given permission to re- amount of money states receive in Medicaid tions. It would allow states to charge those vise and extend her remarks.) funding from the federal government each with pre-existing conditions higher pre- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. year, regardless of the cost of providing miums by allowing states to very easily healthcare to those who qualify. Medicaid is waive community rating requirements, Mr. Speaker, I will include in the already a lean program especially when which currently prohibits this practice. Fur- RECORD a letter from the Association measured on a per capita basis, and cuts thermore it would grant states, through a of American Medical Colleges which from capping federal funding will quickly waiver that is approved by default, the abil- states: ‘‘Treatment of essential health force states to cut services, limit enroll- ity to opt out of essential health benefit re- benefits and health status under- ment, and decrease payments to hospitals quirements, a core set of medical services, writing dilutes protections for many and other providers. Also, Medicaid is the like hospitalizations, mental health, mater- Americans and would leave individuals largest payer for long term care in the coun- nity care and prescription drug coverage, with preexisting conditions facing try. The program pays for more than 60 per- which all insurers are required to cover cent of all nursing home residents and for under the ACA. If states waive requirements, higher premiums and reduce access to more than 3.2 million Americans with home- insurers could leave those who are sick or vital care.’’ and community-based care, which allows with pre-existing conditions out to fend for Mr. Speaker, I rise to caution those many older Americans and people with dis- themselves and face exorbitant costs to get Republicans who have allowed them- abilities to remain in their homes rather life-saving care they need. Experts agree selves to be persuaded by this Presi- than move to a more expensive institutional that the funding included in the ‘‘Upton- dent into supporting this terrible bill setting. States—which must balance budgets Long Amendment’’ is completely inadequate which would leave millions of Ameri- and already face fiscal pressures—will not be to protect those with pre-existing condi- cans without health care and raise the able to make up the lost federal dollars and tions. The Administration and Congressional will be forced to deny care. The inevitable Leaders promised to the American people cost of care for millions more. You are result will be that the AHCA will make it that those with pre-existing conditions going to pay a terrible price for not much harder and more costly for older Amer- would remain protected—this bill even with protecting your constituents. icans, people with disabilities, and their fam- added amendments defaults on that promise. TrumpCare will cause 24 million ilies to get services they need. Another failure of the AHCA is that it Americans to lose their health cov- In addition, the legislation will effectively hurts women by freezing funding to pro- erage and slash Medicaid by $880 bil- end the Medicaid expansion, which provides viders like Planned Parenthood, risking the lion; for older Americans, premiums, health coverage to millions of people earning health and well-being of the 2.5 million peo- deductibles, and copayments will sky- low to moderate incomes. While the bill pur- ple who rely on the organization for basic ports to allow states to maintain the expan- care. One in five women in the United States rocket. Those between the ages of 50 sion, states will only receive an enhanced has visited Planned Parenthood clinics and and 64 will be forced to pay premiums match, or additional funding, for people who for many low-income women of color, includ- five times higher than what others pay enroll before 2020 and maintain continuous ing many of our members, Planned Parent- for the same coverage.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.061 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4159 This crushing age tax will fall on people with disabilities. Under the cap and You did not do it on purpose. You did some of the most vulnerable members cut proposal, the federal government would it because you had to, to meet the ar- of our society, elderly people on fixed no longer share in the costs of providing cane rules of the Senate, so you incomes who often have serious health health care services and community services stripped it out, and you will, by all in- beyond the capped amount. This would tents and purposes, fix it in the Senate. issues. eliminate the enhanced federal match for the Meanwhile, hidden in this bill is an Community First Choice Option under Med- For you, I would say good luck with outrageous tax break for billionaires. icaid that provides attendant care services in that. But for the Members who are sit- TrumpCare gives $600 billion in tax the community. Thanks to this program, ting here: Why would we not debate cuts to large corporations and wealthy many poor veterans with serious non-serv- this? Why would we not fix it? Why people, including $2.8 billion to the 400 ice-connected disabilities have been able to would we not go through regular order richest families in America. The Mac- move from nursing homes into their commu- so all of us would ensure there is not a Arthur amendment made this bill even nities. The AHCA also weakens Medicaid by loophole that would deny coverage to 7 ending the Medicaid expansion earlier and million veterans. This is too important worse by jettisoning protections for offering Medicaid block grants to states. people with preexisting conditions. to rush. It is too important to make er- Data from the Robert Wood Johnson Foun- rors like this. It is darn sure too impor- Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I continue dation shows expansion has helped thousands to reserve the balance of my time. of veterans and their caregivers. tant to count on the Senate to fix it. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, For veterans and PVA members in par- And it was our responsibility. I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from ticular, the AHCA continues several prob- So here we sat with 30 seconds among Michigan (Mr. CONYERS). lematic policies of the ACA as well as trou- 15 of us to make points that are impor- Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I have bling new provisions that could affect the tant to the American public. been here for five decades, and I can’t ability of many veterans and their family Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues: recall a time when we have debated members to afford health insurance in the reject this. Come back and do it right, private market. The underlying AHCA bill: and provide the health care our vet- something so obviously harmful to sen- Continues to exclude CHAMPVA bene- erans deserve. iors and working people in this coun- ficiaries—dependents of the most catastroph- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- try. This bill strips health care from 24 ically disabled veterans—from the depend- bers are again reminded to address million people. It requires seniors to ents’ coverage policy up to age 26. their remarks to the Chair. pay sometimes 100 percent or more of Fails to remove the prohibition on enroll- ment into the VA health care system for Pri- Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I continue their income in premiums. to reserve the balance of my time. This legislation drastically and dra- ority Group 8 veterans, thus denying these veterans access to the principal health care Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, matically cuts Medicaid, directly con- system for veterans. I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman tradicting President Trump’s claim not Denies access to tax credits making health from Hawaii (Ms. HANABUSA). to. insurance affordable to anyone eligible for a (Ms. HANABUSA asked and was In Michigan, half of all children rely host of other federal health programs, in- given permission to revise and extend on Medicaid. In my district alone, cluding those ‘‘eligible’’ for coverage under her remarks.) 56,000 people will lose coverage, includ- Title 38 health care programs. This would Ms. HANABUSA. Mr. Speaker, I in- ing 16,000 children and 3,200 seniors. prevent many veterans who may be ‘‘eligible clude in the RECORD a letter from Save Let’s be clear. If we pass this bill, for’’ but not enrolled in the VA health care Medicaid in Schools, a coalition of doz- people will die. Health care is a right system from accessing these tax credits in- ens of organizations. This letter states tended to help people buy insurance. and not a privilege. Not only do the changes made to the origi- that this bill jeopardizes health care Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I continue nal version of the AHCA continue its failure for the Nation’s most vulnerable chil- to reserve the balance of my time. to protect veterans and people with disabil- dren: students with disabilities and Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, ities, they make these circumstances worse. students in poverty. I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from The latest changes would allow states to MAY 2, 2017. Minnesota (Mr. WALZ), the highest seek waivers that would allow insurers to Re The American Health Care Act Vote ranking enlisted soldier ever elected to charge higher premiums to people with pre- Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, Congress. existing conditions, including people with Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, (Mr. WALZ asked and was given per- disabilities. The new amendments also would Washington, DC. allow states to seek waivers from the ACA’s mission to revise and extend his re- Hon. PAUL RYAN, requirement that certain essential health Speaker, House of Representatives, marks.) benefits must be provided, including crucial Washington, DC. Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I include in services for people with disabilities such as Hon. CHUCK SCHUMER, the RECORD a letter from the Paralyzed prescription drugs, rehabilitative and Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, Veterans of America urging rejection habilitative services and devices, preventa- Washington, DC. of the latest version of the American tive and wellness services and chronic dis- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, Health Care Act. ease management. The combination of these Minority Leader, House of Representatives, changes would make it nearly impossible for Washington, DC. PARALYZED VETERANS OF AMERICA, people with pre-existing conditions to find DEAR MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL, Washington, DC, May 3, 2017. affordable plans that cover basic health care SPEAKER RYAN, MINORITY LEADER SCHUMER, Hon. PAUL RYAN, services. AND MINORITY LEADER PELOSI: The under- Speaker, House of Representatives, Throughout these past few months, the signed member organizations of the Save Washington, DC. American people have been calling for a bi- Medicaid in the Schools Coalition are con- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, partisan effort to improve the nation’s cerned that the American Health Care Act Minority Leader, House of Representatives, health care system. Congress should heed (AHCA) jeopardizes healthcare for the na- Washington, DC. these voices, stop its pursuit of the flawed tion’s most vulnerable children: students DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND LEADER PELOSI: American Health Care Act and work to- with disabilities and students in poverty. Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) urges gether through regular order to strengthen Specifically, the AHCA reneges on Medic- rejection of the latest version of the Amer- all Americans’ access to affordable, high aid’s 50+ year commitment to provide Amer- ican Health Care Act (AHCA). PVA is the na- quality health care. ica’s children with access to vital healthcare tion’s only Congressionally-chartered vet- Sincerely, services that ensure they have adequate edu- erans’ service organization solely dedicated CARL BLAKE, cational opportunities and can contribute to to representing veterans with spinal cord in- Associate Executive Director. society by imposing a per-capita cap and jury and/or disease. Consequently, we are shifting current and future costs to tax- very concerned about the conflicting infor- Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, there are payers in every state and Congressional dis- mation circulating about this legislation and many reasons that people may come to trict. While children currently comprise al- the adverse impact it could have on our the conclusion this is not the piece of most half of all Medicaid beneficiaries, less members and millions of other people with legislation for them. I would argue than one in five dollars is spent by Medicaid disabilities. most egregious amongst this is the on children. Accordingly, a per-capita cap, As we understand it, the AHCA cuts $880 manner in which it was done. There even one that is based on different groups of billion out of the Medicaid program in order beneficiaries, will disproportionally harm to finance tax cuts that will explode the def- was clearly an error made on the 7 mil- children’s access to care, including services icit and largely assist upper income individ- lion veterans you heard about. I do not received at school. Considering these unin- uals, corporations, and providers. The Med- question a single Member’s commit- tended consequences, we urge a ‘no’’ vote on icaid changes are particularly devastating to ment in here to caring for veterans. The American Health Care Act (AHCA).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.084 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4160 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Medicaid is a cost-effective and efficient school psychologists, school social workers, Job loss: Districts use Medicaid reimburse- provider of essential health care services for and school nurses) who provide comprehen- ment to support the salaries and benefits of children. School-based Medicaid programs sive health and mental health services to the staff performing eligible services. Sixty- serve as a lifeline to children who can’t ac- students. Districts also use these funds to eight percent of districts use Medicaid fund- cess critical health care and health services expand the availability of a wide range of ing to pay for direct salaries for health pro- outside of their school. Under this bill, the health and mental health services available fessionals who provide services for students. bulk of the mandated costs of providing to students in poverty, who are more likely Cuts to Medicaid funding would impact dis- health care coverage would be shifted to the to lack consistent access to healthcare pro- tricts’ ability to maintain employment for States even though health needs and costs of fessionals. Further, some districts depend on school nurses, physical and occupational care for children will remain the same or in- Medicaid reimbursements to purchase and therapists, speech-language pathologists, crease. Most analyses of the AHCA project update specialized equipment (e.g., walkers, school social workers, school psychologists, that the Medicaid funding shortfall in sup- wheelchairs, exercise equipment, special and many other critical school personnel port of these mandated services will in- playground equipment, and equipment to as- who ensure students with disabilities and crease, placing states at greater risk year sist with hearing and seeing) as well as as- those with a variety of educational needs are after year. The federal disinvestment in sistive technology for students with disabil- able to learn. Medicaid imposed by the AHCA will force ities to help them learn alongside their Fewer critical supplies: Districts use Med- States and local communities to increase peers. icaid reimbursement for critical supplies taxes and reduce or eliminate various pro- School districts would stand to lose much such as wheelchairs, therapeutic bicycles, grams and services, including other non- of their funding for Medicaid under the hydraulic changing tables, walkers, weighted Medicaid services. The unintended con- AHCA. Schools currently receive roughly $4 vests, lifts, and student-specific items that sequences of the AHCA will force states to billion in Medicaid reimbursements each are necessary for each child to access cur- cut eligibility, services, and benefits for chil- year. Yet under this proposal, states would riculum as closely as possible to their non- dren. no longer have to consider schools as eligible disabled peers. Replacing this equipment The projected loss of $880 billion in federal Medicaid providers, which would mean that would be difficult if not impossible without Medicaid dollars will compel States to ration districts would have the same obligation to Medicaid reimbursements. Fewer mental health supports: Seven out health care for children. Under the per-cap- provide services for students with disabil- of ten students receiving mental health serv- ita caps included in the AHCA, health care ities under IDEA, but no Medicaid dollars to ices receive these services at school. Cuts to will be rationed and schools will be forced to provide medically-necessary services. Medicaid would further marginalize these compete with other critical health care pro- Schools would be unable to provide EPSDT critical services and leave students without viders—hospitals, physicians, and clinics— to students, which would mean screenings access to care. that serve Medicaid-eligible children. and treatment that take place in school set- Noncompliance with IDEA: Given the fail- School-based health services are mandated tings would have to be moved to physician ure to commit federal resources to fully fund on the States and those mandates do not offices or hospital emergency rooms, where IDEA, Medicaid reimbursements serve as a cease simply because Medicaid funds are some families may not visit regularly or critical funding stream to help schools pro- capped by the AHCA. As with many other where costs are much higher. vide the specialized instructional supports unfunded mandates, capping Medicaid mere- In addition, basic health screenings for vi- that students with disabilities need to be ly shifts the financial burden of providing sion, hearing, and mental health problems educated alongside their peers. services to the States. for students would no longer be possible, We urge you to carefully consider the im- MEDICAID ENABLES SCHOOLS TO PROVIDE making these problems more difficult to ad- portant benefits that Medicaid provides to CRITICAL HEALTH CARE FOR STUDENTS dress and expensive to treat. Moving health our nation’s most vulnerable children. A school’s primary responsibility is to pro- screenings out of schools also reduces access Schools are often the hub of the community, vide students with a high-quality education. to early identification and treatment, which and converting Medicaid’s financing struc- However, children cannot learn to their full- also leads to more costly treatment down ture to per-capita caps threatens to signifi- est potential with unmet health needs. As the road. Efforts by schools to enroll eligible cantly reduce access to comprehensive such, school district personnel regularly pro- students in Medicaid, as required, would also health and mental and behavioral health vide critical health services to ensure that decline. care for children with disabilities and those all children are ready to learn and able to THE CONSEQUENCES OF MEDICAID PER CAPITA living in poverty. We look forward to work- thrive alongside their peers. Schools deliver CAPS WILL POTENTIALLY BE DEVASTATING ing with you to avert the harmful and unnec- health services effectively and efficiently FOR CHILDREN essary impacts the AHCA would impose on since school is where children spend most of Significant reductions to Medicaid spend- Medicaid, which has proven to benefit chil- their days. Increasing access to health care ing could have devastating effects on our na- dren in a highly effective and cost-effective services through Medicaid improves health tion’s children, especially those with disabil- manner. If you have questions about the letter or care and educational outcomes for students. ities. Due to the underfunding of IDEA, dis- wish to meet to discuss this issue further, Providing health and wellness services for tricts rely on Medicaid reimbursements to please do not hesitate to reach out to the co- students in poverty and services that benefit ensure students with disabilities have access alition co-chairs: John Hill, Sasha Pudelski students with disabilities ultimately enables to the supports and services they need to ac- and Kelly Vaillancourt Strobach. more children to become employable and at- cess a Free and Appropriate Public Edu- Sincerely, tend higher-education. cation (FAPE) and Early Intervention serv- AASA, The School Superintendents Asso- Since 1988, Medicaid has permitted pay- ices. Potential consequences of this critical ciation, Accelify, American Civil Liberties ment to schools for certain medically-nec- loss of funds include: Union, American Dance Therapy Associa- essary services provided to children under Fewer health services: Providing com- tion, American Federation of Teachers, the Individuals with Disabilities Education prehensive physical and mental health serv- American Foundation for the Blind, Amer- Act (IDEA) through an individualized edu- ices in schools improves accessibility for ican Occupational Therapy Association, cation program (IEP) or individualized fam- many children and youth, particularly in American Psychological Association, Asso- ily service program (IFSP). Schools are thus high-needs and hard-to-serve areas, such as ciation of Assistive Technology Act Pro- eligible to be reimbursed for direct medical rural and urban communities. In a 2017 sur- grams, Association of Educational Service services to Medicaid-eligible students with vey of school district leaders, half of them Agencies, Association of School Business Of- an IEP or IFSP. In addition, districts can re- indicated they recently took steps to in- ficials International (ASBO), Association of ceive Medicaid reimbursements for providing crease Medicaid enrollment in their dis- University Centers on Disabilities, Autistic Early Periodic Screening Diagnostic and tricts. Reduced funding for Medicaid would Self Advocacy Network, Center for American Treatment Benefits (EPSDT), which provide result in decreased access to critical health Progress, Center for Public Representation, Medicaid-eligible children under age 21 with care for many children. Clearinghouse on Women’s Issues, Colorado a broad array of diagnosis and treatment Cuts to general education: Cuts in Med- School Medicaid Consortium, Conference of services. The goal of EPSDT is to assure that icaid funding would require districts to di- Educational Administrators of Schools and health problems are diagnosed and treated as vert funds from other educational programs Programs for the Deaf, Council for Excep- early as possible before the problems become to provide the services as mandated under tional Children, Council of Administrators of complex and treatment is more expensive. IDEA. These funding reductions could result Special Education, Council of Parent Attor- School districts use their Medicaid reim- in an elimination of program cuts of equiva- neys and Advocates, Disability Rights Edu- bursement funds in a variety of ways to help lent cost in ‘‘non-mandated’’ areas of regular cation & Defense Fund. support the learning and development of the education. Division for Early Childhood of the Council children they serve. In a 2017 survey of Higher taxes: Many districts rely on Med- for Exceptional Children (DEC), Health and school districts, district officials reported icaid reimbursements to cover personnel Education Alliance of Louisiana, Healthy that two-thirds of Medicaid dollars are used costs for their special education programs. A Schools Campaign, Healthmaster Holdings to support the work of health professionals loss in Medicaid dollars could lead to deficits LLC, Higher Education Consortium for Spe- and other specialized instructional support in districts that require increases in prop- cial Education, Judge David L. Bazelon Cen- personnel (e.g., speech-language patholo- erty taxes or new levies to cover the costs of ter for Mental Health Law, LEAnet, a na- gists, audiologists, occupational therapists, the special education programs. tional coalition of local education agencies,

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Learning Disabilities Association of Amer- UNITED STEELWORKERS, pensated care will rise as millions of Ameri- ica, Lutheran Services in America Disability May 3, 2017. cans lose health insurance but still need Network, Michigan Association of Inter- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, health care treatment for illnesses and inju- mediate School Administrators, Michigan Washington, DC. ries. Once again, hard-working middle class Association of School Administrators, Na- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the health care workers will have to bear the tional Association of Pediatric Nurse Practi- members of the United Steelworkers union costs of this harmful legislation. tioners, National Association of School (USW), I continue to urge you to oppose the The amendments to the bill do not change Nurses, National Association of School Psy- American Health Care Act (AHCA), despite the fundamental flaws in the legislation chologists, National Association of Social proposed amendments. This legislation will enough to make it worthy of your support. Workers, National Association of State Di- adversely affect every American’s health in- Harmful tax cuts are retained, and the bill rectors of Special Education (NASDSE), Na- surance benefits including workplace plans, would not do anything to reduce costs or to tional Association of State Head Injury Ad- Medicare, Medicaid, and the individual mar- prevent Americans from losing health insur- ministrators. ket. ance—in fact, this bill would make those National Black Justice Coalition, National This harmful and partisan legislation will problems worse. Black Justice Coalition, National Center for cause tens of millions to lose insurance cov- The American Health Care Act is a harm- Learning Disabilities, National Association erage over the next decade. Deductibles and ful piece of legislation that does not solve of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, premiums are expected to rise. In short, the problems in our current health insurance National Disability Rights Network, Na- rather than reducing costs of health care, system. Despite amendments, the costs of tional Down Syndrome Congress, National this bill will simply shift costs to working this bill would still be borne by working fam- Education Association, National Health Law Americans and their families while cutting ilies, making health care less affordable and Program, National Respite Coalition, Na- taxes for the wealthy and corporations. less accessible. The United Steelworkers tional Rural Education Advocacy Collabo- The MacArthur Amendment allows states strongly opposes the AHCA and we urge you rative, National Rural Education Associa- to opt out of certain protections under the to vote against it. tion, National School Boards Association, Affordable Care Act such as the require- Sincerely, Paradigm Healthcare Services, School Social ments that insurers provide plans with a LEO W. GERARD, Work Association of America, School-Based minimum package of services and don’t dis- International President. Health Alliance, Share Our Strength, Soci- criminate against people with pre-existing ety for Public Health Education, Teacher conditions. The amendment also lets states AFL–CFO, Education Division of the Council for Excep- allow insurance companies to charge older May 4, 2017. tional Children, The Arc of the United people up to five times what they charge HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, States, United Way Worldwide. younger people. This amendment will allow Washington, DC. for an uneven patchwork of insurance cov- DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the Ms. HANABUSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise erage across the country and will make in- 12.5 million working people represented by in strong opposition to the TrumpCare surance cost prohibitive for many working the AFL–CFO, I urge you to oppose the Act. I am fortunate to have been born and retired Americans. Although lawmakers American Health Care Act (AHCA, H.R. 1628). and raised in Hawaii where we are are working to address the treatment of indi- In a stunning fashion, this bill takes health taught to never forget our seniors, our viduals with pre-existing conditions, none of coverage away from about 24 million people kupuna. the proposals have adequately addressed the while providing massive tax cuts for the AARP, with a national membership costs associated with removal of the Afford- wealthy and large corporations. No one in able Care Act’s protections for those individ- good conscience can support this legislation. of 38 million and over 150,000 in Hawaii, uals. It is important to understand what is driv- remains steadfastly opposed to Overall, the AHCA is a transfer of wealth ing Republicans to pursue a massive roll TrumpCare. The amendment proposed from working Americans to the very wealthy back in health coverage. While it is pack- today makes the bill worse. And for and to corporations including the pharma- aged as health care reform, a straight- our kupuna in Hawaii and nationally, ceutical industry, insurance companies, and forward look at this legislation shows that it they will have no relief from the age medical device manufacturers. It removes is fundamentally designed to pare back pub- tax. taxes on the very wealthy and on corpora- lic commitments to health coverage in order This chart shows how much more at tions, giving the wealthiest 400 household an to benefit the wealthy. average tax cut of about $7 million each. House Speaker Paul Ryan publically boast- age 64 a person will pay in premiums, Meanwhile, the bill retains the ‘‘Cadillac ed that the AHCA is a ‘‘trillion dollar tax almost $6,800 in Hawaii where we have Tax’’ which puts the burden of the cost of cut’’ that will benefit corporations and pave one of the best health cares. A 55-year- this legislation squarely on the backs of mid- the way for further tax ‘‘reform.’’ He made old will see a premium increase of al- dle class working families. clear that repealing the Affordable Care Act most $3,600 a year. Why? What did the Most of our members are covered under (ACA) taxes is a major aim of the bill. The seniors do that TrumpCare wants to employer-negotiated insurance plans. How- tax cuts, however, largely go to higher earn- penalize them and pay such a premium ever, the AHCA removes the employer-man- ers and corporations. The one ACA tax left date included in the Affordable Care Act. intact is the only one that predominantly when they are moving towards retire- This dramatically changes the incentive and impacts working people—the so-called ‘‘Cad- ment? TrumpCare is out to get those 50 landscape for employer-sponsored insurance, illac’’ tax on workplace health benefits. to 64 with this terrible age tax. which threatens the system that provides in- There are terrible human costs to this up- Vote against H.R. 1628. These num- surance for millions of hard-working Ameri- ward redistribution of wealth. Millions of in- bers will not be different in your dis- cans. CBO estimated that 7 million people dividuals will again face the dilemma of tricts. will lost their workplace coverage as a result choosing between getting life-saving medical Mrs. BLACK. I continue to reserve of this bill. treatment and meeting their families’ basic The AHCA also undoes protections and as- financial needs. the balance of my time. sistance for older Americans and our mem- The AHCA replaces ACA subsidies that Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, bers who are retirees with dramatically in- support a minimum level of coverage with could you advise us how much time is creased out-of-pocket costs to Americans tax credits so small that at least 3 million remaining on both sides? who are older but not yet eligible for Medi- people will be unable to afford coverage in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- care. For those who will or currently rely on the individual market, according to the Con- tleman from Virginia has 51⁄2 minutes Medicare this bill reduces the solvency of gressional Budget Office (CBO). Millions remaining, and the gentlewoman from the program by three years by repealing more will find that they can only afford taxes on the wealthy and on corporations. skimpy coverage that will leave them ex- Tennessee has 21⁄2 minutes remaining. Additionally, this bill makes perilous cuts posed to substantial costs should they face Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, to Medicaid which provides health care to major sickness, undoubtedly increasing the I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman low-income Americans who have been laid number of medical bankruptcies. The bill al- from Illinois (Mrs. BUSTOS). off, work at low-paying jobs, are disabled, or lows insurers to require that seniors in the (Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given are elderly. This will strain already limited individual market pay five times as much in permission to revise and extend her re- state budgets, restrict the needy Americans premiums as younger adults, imposing an marks.) who are eligible for assistance, and eliminate ‘‘age tax.’’ needed services. The bill also decimates Medicaid, ending b 1315 Our members who work in the health care the program as we know it—placing seniors, Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I include industry may also be affected by job losses people with disabilities, and children in jeop- and strained budgets caused by the passage ardy of losing access to care. The AHCA in the RECORD letters from the United of this bill. Providers (our employers) may slashes the program by $839 billion dollars Steelworkers, the AFL–CIO, and the be subjected to lower reimbursement rates over ten years, and CBO estimates that these International Brotherhood of Team- from state Medicaid programs as a result of cuts will result in 14 million people losing sters in relation to this bill. the federal cuts. Also, the costs of uncom- their coverage. In using the program as a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.065 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 piggy bank, without efforts to improve the pose and vote no on the American Health tion, treatment and follow-up care for cancer services it provides, the AHCA manages to Care Act when it comes to the floor today. patients and survivors. Segmenting people shift resources away from many of the na- Sincerely, with cancer and other serious illnesses away tion’s most vulnerable people as part of its JAMES P. HOFFA, from the private marketplace and into high- redistribution project. General President. risk pools absent an adequate and permanent Medicare is not spared either. The bill Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, this is source of public funding has never been an adequate solution. pulls approximately $77 billion from the not how Washington is supposed to Medicare Hospital Insurance Trust Fund to Between 1976 and 2010, 35 states created provide a tax cut to the wealthy, shortening work. We are supposed to improve the high-risk pools to cover individuals who the lifespan of the fund. An additional $28 lives of hardworking people. Instead, could not otherwise purchase insurance in billion is extracted from Medicare’s trust this reckless and dangerous TrumpCare the private market, usually because of a pre- fund for outpatient medical services, to pro- bill would undermine both the health existing condition. Every one of those risk vide a tax break for pharmaceutical compa- and the economic security of millions pools experienced net operating losses year after year. Furthermore, high-risk pools did nies. of Americans, people like Emily Carl- Employer-based health insurance, the na- not result in lower premiums. All of them son. set premiums above the non-group market tion’s major source of coverage, also gets Emily is a small-business owner and hit. The AHCA preserves the so-called ‘‘Cad- average or standard rate in the state, usu- illac’’ tax on workplace health coverage that mother of two from rural Abingdon, Il- ally by 150–200 percent. Only a few states pro- will impact more than 42 percent of large linois. She lives with MS, a lifelong vided additional premium assistance for low- employer plans when it goes into effect. and very expensive preexisting condi- income individuals, leaving many who could Economists predict the tax will cause em- tion. Before healthcare reform, Emily not afford premiums priced out of the pro- gram. Most states also imposed waiting peri- ployers to hollow-out the coverage provided and her husband, Kevin, a farmer, often in their plans, exposing workers to higher ods before covering pre-existing conditions. had to sit around the table at night, go An individual with a prior cancer diagnosis out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and over their bills, and decide between often had to wait 6–12 months before the copays. In some cases, employers are ex- sickness or debt from one month to the high-risk pool would cover the costs associ- pected to drop coverage altogether. The bill ated with cancer treatment or follow-up sur- also eliminates the penalty that employers next. If this bill passes, that is a choice vivorship care. Most states imposed limita- face when they do not comply with the they are going to have to face once tions on coverage with either lifetime or an- ACA’s employer shared responsibility re- again. nual limits. And most plans offered quirements. 030 estimates that seven million For families like the Carlsons, deductibles of $1,000 or higher. Neither people will lose employer-based coverage TrumpCare means higher costs, fewer AHCA, nor the new amendment would fully under the AHCA. choices, and worse coverage. protect patients from any of those condi- These sacrifices in health coverage finance TrumpCare is a bad deal for Ameri- tions. stunning tax cuts for the very wealthy and cans, but it is devastating for rural Cancer patients and survivors need insur- corporations. The legislation provides the 400 Americans. Right now, there are nearly ance coverage that is affordable, readily ac- highest-income households with an average cessible, and protects them from pre-existing annual tax cut of $7 million each. Large cor- 700 rural hospitals at risk of closure. This bill will pull the plug on far too condition exclusions, annual and lifetime porations see impressive windfalls. The caps on coverage and extraordinary out-of- AHCA gives insurance companies alone $145 many of them, killing thousands of pocket costs. Past experience has shown that billion in tax relief, while medical device jobs and ripping the economic heart high-risk pools failed to meet these basic makers get $20 billion, and pharmaceutical out of small towns across our Nation. needs, yet still were a drain on state budg- companies benefit by paying less into Medi- It is time to put hardworking fami- ets. care. lies first. Do the right thing, and vote As we have indicated in our earlier letters, The reasons for opposing this legislation, against this bill. there are reasonable fixes that could be made which sacrifices health coverage for millions to the current law. We stand ready to work to support tax cuts for the few, are clear. We Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. with you to develop policies that improve hope you stand with working people when the law and encourage a robust health insur- you make your choice. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, ance market that provides affordable and Sincerely, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman comprehensive coverage options. WILLIAM SAMUEL, from New Hampshire (Ms. SHEA-POR- Sincerely, Director, TER). CHRISTOPHER W. HANSEN, Government Affairs Department. (Ms. SHEA-PORTER asked and was President. given permission to revise and extend Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD her remarks.) OF TEAMSTERS, oppose this cruel bill on behalf of my May 4, 2017. Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I constituents, especially those it would House of Representatives, include in the RECORD a letter from the hurt the most: people with preexisting Washington, DC. American Cancer Society, which states conditions, older Americans, veterans, DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: On behalf of the 1.4 cancer patients and survivors need af- and lower income people. million members of the International Broth- fordable, accessible insurance coverage If this bill passes, we will go back to erhood of Teamsters and their families, I with no preexisting condition exclu- the days when people with preexisting urge you to vote no on the American Health sions or annual and lifetime caps and conditions could be denied coverage or Care Act (AHCA) today. The Teamsters have long opposed proposals to tax worker health that high-risk pools have failed to charged more, when insurers could de- benefits and this legislation retains the 40 meet these basic needs. cide whether or not to cover basic care percent excise tax on high quality health AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY like hospitalization, and when sick ba- care plans which would ultimately reduce CANCER ACTION NETWORK, bies might hit their insurer’s lifetime the health benefits that hard working Amer- Washington, DC, May 3, 2017. coverage limit before they could even icans receive and increase their out of pock- Hon. PAUL RYAN, walk. et costs. The amendments added to the bill Speaker of the House, House of Representatives, Under this bill, older Americans will do nothing to allay Teamster concerns nor Washington, DC. pay more. In fact, Americans aged 50 to address the fundamental flaws of the under- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, 64 would pay premiums five times high- Minority Leader, House of Representatives, lying bill. The amendments make the bill er than others. Veterans will lose ac- worse than before by opening the door to the Washington, DC. erosion or elimination of minimum coverage DEAR SPEAKER RYAN AND MINORITY LEADER cess to tax credits that make private and pre-existing condition protections and PELOSI: The American Cancer Society Can- coverage affordable, and lower income by allowing insurers to charge older adults cer Action Network (ACS CAN) is deeply people will be hurt. much higher premiums. It does not change concerned about the reports of additional Taking away Medicaid expansion the fact that the millions of American fami- amendments to the American Health Care would put affordable coverage out of lies will lose health insurance. Act (AHCA), including one that would alleg- reach for millions and set us back in Congress should be looking for ways to edly add $8 billion in new spending for state the fight against the heroin, fentanyl, strengthen the middle class instead of pro- high-risk pools. This amendment is particu- and opioid crisis. moting policies that will ultimately take larly egregious because it would further Instead of this cruel bill, let’s come money from their hard earned paychecks and incent states to apply for waivers from cur- reduce, and make more costly, the health rent-law market rules that protect patients together to improve health care, not care benefits they receive. with pre-existing conditions. take health insurance away from mil- The American Health Care Act remains fa- Historically, state high-risk pools have lions just to give tax credits to the tally flawed Accordingly, I call on you to op- fallen short of providing coverage of preven- wealthiest. We are better than that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.067 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4163 Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 the American people and repeal and re- Mr. CRIST. Mr. Speaker, this is a seconds to myself. place ObamaCare. terrible bill. This bill will cut 24 mil- The American Health Care Act has The American Health Care Act will lion Americans out of health insur- gone through many fits and starts over repeal the individual and employer ance. This bill will gut Planned Parent- the last few months. This bill begins to mandates. It will repeal ObamaCare hood in the first year, affecting women fulfill our promise to the American taxes. It will repeal ObamaCare rules. across the country. And it will cut $850 people by reducing costs for American It will repeal ObamaCare subsidies. billion out of Medicaid hurting the families. It eliminates ObamaCare’s And it will do what is right by stopping poor and the disabled in our country. It burdens on small businesses and fami- taxpayer funding for abortion providers is unconscionable. lies and protects those with preexisting and by refocusing Medicaid on those The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the conditions. We must continue to work who most need it. We replace all of gentleman from Virginia yielding for to build on this. that with a system that protects those the purpose of debate? I yield 1 minute to the gentleman with preexisting conditions. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. No. Just for from California (Mr. MCCARTHY), our Mr. Speaker, I heard a lot about this the purpose of a unanimous consent re- majority leader. bill, and this bill is not 2,000 pages. It quest. Mr. MCCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I is less than 130. But, Mr. Speaker, I The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- thank the gentlewoman from Ten- have heard things on this floor that are tleman is engaging in debate. The time nessee for yielding, but, more impor- not true. of the gentleman will be deducted. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Would the tantly, I thank Congresswoman DIANE So let me state it one more time. We Speaker advise how much time is re- BLACK for more than four decades as a will replace all that with a system that nurse, for caring for the sick, for her protects those with preexisting condi- maining? The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- passion for the unborn, and for her tions and then reduces premiums tleman has 31⁄4 minutes remaining. work on this legislation. through the tried-and-true process of Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Now, Mr. Speaker, Americans are a fair competition. I yield to the gentleman from New practical people. We know that we can As the price of insurance decreases, York (Mr. ENGEL) for the purpose of a have fair health care that helps those we give those who still can’t quite af- unanimous consent request. who need it without trapping everyone ford it a step up through tax credits (Mr. ENGEL asked and was given in a government-run system dreamed and expanded health savings accounts. permission to revise and extend his re- up by Washington’s central planners. This is fundamental and structural re- marks.) Now, contrary to our freedom, form. Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in ObamaCare forced the American people Now, Mr. Speaker, since I have had strong opposition to this bill, and I in- to purchase insurance. Contrary to our the honor to stand on this floor and clude in the RECORD a statement of the well-being, ObamaCare imposed taxes serve in this House, this body has done American Hospital Association against we cannot bear. Contrary to what is re- many good things. We have stood time the bill. sponsible and right, ObamaCare made and again for what was best for our I just want to say this bill can have Medicaid unsustainable for the people country, struggling against other a very simple slogan: American people most in need. And contrary to common branches for so long. Many times that are going to pay more and get less. sense, ObamaCare regulations contin- required us to dig in our heels and stop That is what this bill does. ued to drive up the cost of insurance something terrible. It is good to stop STATEMENT ON THE AMERICAN HEALTH CARE beyond what people can afford. bad things from happening, but it is ACT You want to know how ObamaCare is great to make good things happen. Fi- (By Rick Pollack, President and CEO, Amer- working? Just read this week’s papers. nally, after years of waiting, we have ican Hospital Association, April 27, 2017) Now, let me take you all the way back the chance to do something good The latest version of the AHCA continues to yesterday. This is the headline: today. to put health coverage in jeopardy for many ‘‘Medica, the last insurer selling indi- This bill is not perfect. No bill could Americans. Our top concern is what this vidual health policies in most of Iowa, be. The question is not: Why can’t it be change could mean for older and sicker pa- tients, including those with preexisting con- likely to exit.’’ made perfect? The question is: Do we ditions, such as cancer patients and those Now, 94 of the 99 counties will have retreat or do we act? Do we take this with chronic conditions. For these reasons, no insurer in Iowa. Ninety-four of the great leap to repeal and replace along with our previously stated concerns 94 counties in Iowa will have no in- ObamaCare, extend a hand to our fel- about the AHCA, we cannot support the bill. surer. low citizens most in need and break However, we urge Congress to continue to Here is another headline from yester- free from Washington control, or do we work with stakeholders on a solution that day: ‘‘Aetna will exit ObamaCare mar- continue to wait for a day that is al- provides meaningful coverage. The amendment proposed this week would kets in Virginia in 2018.’’ ready here in the hope of a better day dramatically worsen the bill. The changes Humana left the ObamaCare ex- that may never come? included put consumer protections at greater changes. Blue Cross left Nebraska. We were not sent here to wait. We risk by allowing states to waive the essential United Healthcare left all but a hand- are called to action. This is our oppor- health benefit standards, which could leave ful of markets this year. tunity. Mr. Speaker, I do not want to patients without access to critical health Mr. Speaker, we have roughly 3,000 read another day of headlines of more services and increase out-of-pocket spending. counties in all of America. One-third, people going without insurance, with- This could allow plans to set premium prices 1,022, only have one provider. Soon, out insurance without preexisting con- based on individual risk for some consumers, which could significantly raise costs for more counties will have none. ditions, without coverage. those with pre-existing conditions. So do you know what doesn’t cover Today we will do something good. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Of- preexisting conditions? A healthcare That is why today we will act. fice has not yet scored the amendment. How- system that doesn’t have coverage. No Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, ever, CBO previously projected that the options means no coverage. That is the I remind my colleague that his vote for AHCA would result in 24 million fewer people road ObamaCare is leading us down, this bill could take away protections covered in 2026. It is unlikely this amend- and doing nothing leaves too many for preexisting conditions from almost ment would improve these coverage esti- mates. Americans out in the cold. 6 million people in California who As the backbone of America’s health safe- Now, Mr. Speaker, we will not stand would have access to coverage. Those ty-net, hospitals and health systems must for that. We tried the ObamaCare way. with diabetes could see their premiums protect access to care for those who need it It is failing remarkably, and the Amer- go up by $5,000 a year. and ensure that the most vulnerable patients ican people are demanding a change. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman are not left behind. The AHCA continues to Now we have a chance to do some- from Florida (Mr. CRIST) for the pur- fall far short of that goal. thing great. We could have care with- pose of a unanimous consent request. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, out control, stability without cen- (Mr. CRIST asked and was given per- I yield to the gentleman from Georgia tralization, and support without man- mission to revise and extend his re- (Mr. DAVID SCOTT) for the purpose of a dates. We have a chance to listen to marks.) unanimous consent request.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.090 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Democrats and Republicans in Con- Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to I yield the balance of my time to the gress. It has stepped forward in the make one point: It is most shameful to gentlewoman from California (Ms. longstanding Republican belief that take $882 billion out of Medicaid to PELOSI), the Democratic leader, for our Medicare should wither on the vine, help the poor— closing statement. that Medicaid should be shrunken, and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank that Social Security should be tleman is not making a unanimous the gentleman for yielding. I thank privatized. consent request. him, Congressman SCOTT, I thank If you believe in the health and well- Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia.—and FRANK PALLONE, JOHN YARMUTH, being of the American people, you give it to the wealthy. That is the RITCHIE NEAL, our ranking members, must reject this bill before us now. It is wrong thing to do. who have done such excellent work on what TrumpCare—here is what it The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- this debate on the values of our coun- means to the American people. You tleman is not recognized. try. know, much has been said about policy Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, our colleague, Mr. CLY- here today and over time. Much has would the Speaker advise again how BURN, began his remarks quoting Rev- been said about politics, what are the much time is remaining? erend Dr. Martin Luther King, and I politics of this. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- want to join him. I think those words 1 What is really important is what this tleman has 3 ⁄4 minutes remaining. bear repeating. Over 50 years ago, Dr. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, means to the American people. And King said: ‘‘Of all of the forms of in- I yield 21⁄4 minutes to the gentleman they know they are listening. They equality, injustice in health care is the from South Carolina (Mr. CLYBURN). know what it means to them. most shocking and the most inhumane Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in It means, TrumpCare does, it forces because it often results in physical strong opposition to the Republican’s families to pay higher premiums and pay-more-for-less healthcare plan. death.’’ deductibles, increasing out-of-pocket I often repeat the 1966 observation of We come to the floor with the moral costs. Higher costs. Martin Luther King, Jr., that, of all force of Dr. Martin Luther King’s Less coverage. TrumpCare will take the inequalities that exist, the injus- words in our hearts: Affordable health away health care from more than 24 tice in health care is the most egre- care is a civil right, a fundamental million hardworking Americans. gious and inhumane. right for every person in our country, A crushing age tax. TrumpCare On the day it was passed, I observed not just the privileged few. forces Americans aged 50 to 64 to pay that the Affordable Care Act is the And so, in the spirit of Mr. CLYBURN premiums five times higher than what Civil Rights Act of the 21st century. and Dr. King, let us be prayerful about others pay for health coverage, no mat- Repealing the Affordable Care Act how we go forward on this very per- ter how healthy they are. would be inhumane and put egregious sonal issue about the well-being of It steals from Medicare. TrumpCare forms of discrimination back into our every person in our country. shortens the life of the Medicare trust healthcare delivery system. Speaker RYAN once called this bill an fund and ransacks funds that seniors My Republican colleagues and Presi- act of mercy. There is no mercy here. depend on to get long-term care they dent Trump have promised more cov- Indeed, inequality and inhumanity is need. That is why it is consistent with erage and less cost for everyone. How- exactly what TrumpCare has in store their wither on the vine for Medicare ever, this plan would allow all States for the American people. But when he philosophy. to eliminate essential health benefits, said it is an act of mercy, here is what And then, if that were not bad such as maternity and newborn cov- others said. enough, and they couldn’t pass their From the beginning, TrumpCare was erage, prescription drugs, hospitaliza- bill because it was that bad, they a moral monstrosity that will dev- tion, emergency coverage, and mental moved further away from the American astate seniors, children, and hard- health services. It would also allow people by gutting key protections. working Americans. That was from me. States to tax older Americans five TrumpCare eviscerates essential health times more than younger Americans. But don’t take it from me. Sister Simone Campbell said: This is benefits such as maternity care, pre- Republicans are reneging on their scription drugs, emergency coverage, promise to protect Americans with pre- not the faithful way forward and must be rejected. prenatal care, and guts protections for existing conditions. Without essential Americans with preexisting medical health benefits standards, protections The Catholic Health Association wrote: We strongly encourage the full conditions. for those with preexisting conditions As bad as TrumpCare was the first will exist in name only. House to reject this replacement bill. And the United Methodist Church, time around, you know, it was dead. It Repeal of the essential health bene- died. It died right here on the floor. fits would drive a race to the bottom, opposing TrumpCare, this is what they said: People will die because of efforts Now it has come back to life like a with insurers dropping coverage for ev- zombie, even more scary than before, erything from chemotherapy to high- like this to roll back health care. Lutheran Services in America said: and it is even worse. cost drugs. If Republicans had their way, Ameri- It would precipitate a proliferation of TrumpCare will jeopardize the health cans with preexisting conditions will junk policies that have historically care and long-term services and sup- be pushed off their insurance and seg- plagued unsuspecting low-income com- ports of millions of Americans. regated into high-risk pools, where munities for years. People with pre- The Episcopal Church said: they will face soaring costs, worse cov- existing conditions who need these and TrumpCare falls woefully short of our erage, and restricted care. other costly services would not be able spiritual calling to care for the least of TrumpCare means huge premium in- to find the coverage they need at any these, as well as the noble values upon creases. It is a frightening future for price, much less an affordable one. We which our great Nation was founded. families who need affordable, depend- took a giant step away from this with And all that was said before the Re- able care the most. the ACA, but this Republican bill takes publicans decided to destroy the pro- Now, on the floor, the Republicans us back to that era where people with tections of Americans with preexisting have recklessly, and some would say preexisting conditions are left in the conditions. fraudulently, claimed that TrumpCare cold. I grant our Republican friends their Adding money to a State slush fund position. I respect them and their con- covers Americans with preexisting con- is not a solution. Repealing the ACA stituents who sent them here. But I re- ditions. It does not. would, once again, institutionalize in- ject the wrong priorities in As Robert Graboyes at the conserv- humanity and egregiousness. TrumpCare—tax cuts for the rich at ative Mercatus Center said about the the expense of the health insurance for Upton amendment: ‘‘. . . the $8 billion b 1330 tens of millions of working families amount is a pittance. Spread over 5 Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I am pre- across America. years, it is a fifth of a pittance.’’ pared to close, and I reserve the bal- TrumpCare very clearly spotlights As Karen Pollitz from the Kaiser ance of my time. the differences in priorities between Family Foundation said, the Upton

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.092 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4165 amendment will cover the costs for changes include allowing states to waive the Children’s Leadership Council: ‘‘The Chil- only 1 percent of the individual mar- requirement for essential health benefits . . . dren’s Leadership Council opposes the Amer- ket. Others have given it up to 5 per- Another change allows states to waive pro- ican Health Care Act (AHCA) because it tections against health status rating. Weak- would jeopardize health care for millions of cent; 1 to 5 percent. Does that mean ening these rules would enable insurers to babies, children, youth and families. We urge covering? No. charge higher prices to people with pre-exist- you to vote NO on this legislation. . . . The Forcing a vote without a CBO score ing conditions, possibly making insurance ACHA’s changes to Medicaid would radically shows that the Republicans are afraid unaffordable for those who need it most. . . . restructure a program that has worked for of the facts. They are afraid of learning The individuals and families we represent more than 50 years to support children’s the full consequences of their plan to cannot go back to a time when people with health. The Medicaid cap would shift $839 bil- push Americans with preexisting condi- pre-existing conditions could be denied cov- lion to states, forcing them to cut eligibility, erage or forced to choose between purchasing tions into the cold or, as my colleague benefits, or provider rates that could have basic necessities and affording their health disastrous health consequences. There is no from New York said, off the sidewalk. care coverage. Given these factors, we oppose question that the massive cuts to Medicaid, If Republicans thought they were the latest draft of the AHCA. We urge Mem- increased premiums likely for millions of really protecting people, they wouldn’t bers of Congress to reject this legislation.’’ families, and eliminating the Essential be afraid of the facts. But they are also [5/1/17] Health Benefits requirements under current afraid of the truth, and the truth that American Academy of Pediatrics, Amer- law will seriously harm children and fami- ican College of Physicians, American Con- lies. . . . This legislation is a dangerous step would come forth if we knew the facts. gress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Na- And they are afraid that the American backward.’’ [5/1/17] tional Association of Nurse Practitioners in Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities: people would find out that this is not a Women’s Health, National Partnership for ‘‘The Consortium for Citizens with Disabil- healthcare bill, this is a tax bill dis- Women & Families: ‘‘Rather than support re- ities (CCD) is strongly opposed to the amend- guised as a health bill. cent gains in women’s access to healthcare ed American Health Care Act. The amended This is a bill that is one of the big- and coverage, the MacArthur Amendment American Health Care Act retains the origi- gest transfers of wealth from the mid- and AHCA turn back the clock and reverse nal bill’s proposals to dramatically cut Med- dle class to the richest people and cor- hard-won progress. . . . The MacArthur icaid services that are vital to people with Amendment would enable states to waive disabilities and seniors through per capita porations in America. This is a tax bill EHBs including those for maternity and new- not a healthcare bill. That is why they caps, which CCD has opposed. . . . The new- born care, preventive services, and services est amendments to the American Health have to do it now so they can get on for mental health and substance use dis- Care Act make the bill even more harmful to with their tax bill. orders; [and] to waive community rating people with disabilities. The new amend- But the suffering TrumpCare will in- rules. . . . Supporters of the bill claim this ments would allow states to easily obtain bill maintains protections for those with pre- flict on the sick is all too clear. That is waivers that would allow them to charge existing conditions, but allowing states to why this disastrous bill has been con- higher premiums to people with pre-existing waive coverage of EHB and charge people conditions, including people with disabil- demned by the American Medical Asso- more based on their health status renders ities. They would also allow states to seek ciation, the American Cancer Society, the promise of coverage for preexisting con- waivers from the Affordable Care Act’s re- the American Diabetes Association, ditions to be meaningless. . . . Women and quirement to provide essential health bene- families must not be made to suffer, lose ac- the American Heart Association, the fits, including services for people with dis- cess to care and coverage, and pay higher American Lung Association, the Amer- abilities . . . We urge you to oppose the bill healthcare costs. . . . The AHCA and the ican Society of Clinical Oncology, the should it come to a vote.’’ [4/28/17] MacArthur Amendment turn the clock back Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, AIDS National Education Association: ‘‘Appar- on women’s health and should not move for- ently, snatching health care coverage from United, the Children’s Hospital Asso- ward.’’ [5/1/17] ciation, AARP, the March of Dimes. Association of American Medical Colleges: children and families was not enough for The list goes on and on—the American ‘‘This week, the House could vote on a new House Republican leaders and the Trump ad- ministration. To make a terrible bill even Cancer Society. version of the American Health Care Act that includes the MacArthur amendment. worse, a new amendment to the American Instead of reading all of these pages, Health Care Act (AHCA) would allow states I include them for the RECORD. . . . The [MacArthur] amendment’s treat- ment of essential health benefits and health to jettison existing essential health benefit Trumpcare—pulled from the House Floor status underwriting dilutes protections for requirements and permit insurance compa- by Speaker Paul Ryan on March 24—already many Americans and would leave individuals nies to charge people with pre-existing con- meant higher health costs, more than 24 mil- with preexisting conditions facing higher ditions more than they charge healthy peo- lion Americans losing their health coverage, premiums and reduced access to care. The ple. . . . If the AHCA and new amendment gutting key protections, a crushing Age Tax, shortcomings in the underlying bill remain are enacted, millions of kids and families and stealing from Medicare. the same. The original analysis from the would effectively lose the health care cov- Amazingly, Republicans have managed to Congressional Budget Office indicated that erage they need. The new amendment also make Trumpcare even worse. The MacArthur 14 million Americans would lose their health threatens to make insurance for people with Amendment would completely gut the pro- insurance coverage as early as next year, and pre-existing conditions prohibitively expen- tections for people with pre-existing condi- as many as 24 million by 2024. Nothing in the sive.’’ [4/27/17] tions by allowing states to waive essential bill has changed that alters the fact that American Society of Clinical Oncology: health benefits and community rating rules, this legislation would lead to fewer Ameri- ‘‘On behalf of the American Society of Clin- which prevent insurers from charging people cans with quality insurance, less affordable ical Oncology (ASCO), I write to express our with pre-existing conditions more. This will coverage for those who have it, and the de- strong opposition to the American Health make it all but impossible for millions of stabilization of the current Medicaid pro- Care Act (AHCA), as currently amended. . . . Americans fighting illness to afford the cov- gram.’’ [5/2/17] Studies show that when cancer patients do erage they desperately need. Children’s Hospital Association: ‘‘On be- not have adequate insurance they receive As seen below, over the last few days, the half of our nation’s children’s hospitals and less care, receive it later, and have worse number of health care, consumer, seniors, the patients and families they serve, Chil- outcomes than those with better insurance children, disability and other groups that are dren’s Hospital Association (CHA) continues coverage. . . . The AHCA as currently con- speaking out against Trumpcare continues to oppose the newly modified American structed will create or worsen barriers to to grow. Health Care Act (AHCA) and strongly urges care. It will add costs to the system, de- A Coalition of Patient Advocacy Groups, the House of Representatives to reject the crease access to appropriate treatment and Including American Cancer Society, Amer- bill. Recently adopted changes only worsen increase existing disparities of care. We are ican Heart Association, American Lung As- the AHCA by putting children with pre- especially concerned with provisions allow- sociation, American Diabetes Association, existing conditions at increased risk of los- ing state waivers that could erode important and March of Dimes: ‘‘In March, our patient ing health care coverage and failing to cor- protections for people with cancer, including advocacy organizations collectively urged rect the Medicaid cuts that would impact pre-existing condition safeguards, coverage Congress to ensure that any changes made to over 30 million kids. . . . The block grant op- of essential services, and access to affordable the Patient Protection and Affordable Care tion in particular would be devastating to health insurance. . . . ASCO strongly op- Act (ACA) provide affordable, accessible and children as it eliminates Medicaid’s EPSDT poses passage of the AHCA in its current adequate coverage and do not result in a loss (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, form.’’ [4/27/17] of coverage for any Americans. The AHCA and Treatment) benefit which ensures chil- American Thoracic Society: ‘‘On behalf of would do the opposite, causing at least 24 dren receive immunizations, mental health the 16,000 members of the American Thoracic million Americans to lose health insurance, assessments and vision, eye and hearing Society (ATS), I want to voice my grave con- according to the non-partisan Congressional exams as well as other medical services they cerns with the latest legislative proposal de- Budget Office. . . . We are alarmed by recent might need. CHA urgently asks members of veloped to repeal and replace the Affordable harmful changes to AHCA . . . These Congress to vote against the AHCA.’’ [4/27/17] Care Act (ACA). . . . The ATS opposes any

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.093 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4166 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 legislation that does not ensure affordable HIV. We hope we can count on you to oppose health insurance coverage. Nothing in the health insurance coverage for Americans the amended American Health Care Act.’’ [5/ MacArthur amendment remedies the short- currently insured under the ACA. We are 1/17] comings of the underlying bill. The Mac- concerned that allowing states to waive im- AIDS United: ‘‘AIDS United seeks a health Arthur Amendment would allow states to portant insurance reforms in the Affordable care system that will eventually enable the apply for waivers for critical consumer pro- Care Act will lead to reduced coverage for end of HIV in the United States. AHCA tections provided in the Affordable Care Act many Americans and significant price in- makes major changes to the U.S. health care (ACA), including .... the requirements creases for patients with preexisting condi- system that would, if passed, worsen the pro- that health insurers must cover certain es- tions. Further, we are concerned that reli- vision of HIV prevention services for people sential health benefits, and the ban on ance on ‘‘high risk pools’’ will not ade- at risk for HIV and the treatment and care health status underwriting. The current ban quately meet the health insurance needs of for people living with HIV. . . . AIDS United on health status underwriting protects indi- many Americans with pre-existing condi- is especially concerned that the [MacArthur] viduals from being discriminated against by tions. We note that previous attempts at im- amendment, far from improving the situa- virtue of their medical conditions. Prior to plementing state-based high risk pools have tion, will make it easier for insurance com- the passage of the ACA, such individuals been largely unsuccessful. Members of the panies to raise rates on people living with were routinely denied coverage and/or priced ATS serve a large and diverse patient popu- HIV, people with other chronic conditions out of affordable coverage. We are particu- lation, including patients with respiratory and the elderly. . . . AIDS United notes that larly concerned about allowing states to diseases, critical illnesses and sleep disorders thanks to Congress’s strong response over waive this requirement because it will likely such as asthma, COPD, pneumonia, sepsis many years, the U.S. has made substantial lead to patients losing their coverage.’’ [4/27/ and obstructive sleep apnea. Our patients progress in responding to the HIV epidemic. 17] cannot afford to lose affordable health insur- However, doing so requires a strong health American College of Physicians: ‘‘The Col- ance coverage for any period of time.’’ [4/27/ care system that can ensure that people liv- lege strongly believes in the first, do no 17] ing with HIV are able to access care and harm principle. Therefore, we continue to Lutheran Services in America: ‘‘Lutheran treatment . . . H.R. 1628 will reverse some of urge that Congress move away from the fun- Services in America continues to oppose the the gains that we have made in ensuring cov- damentally flawed and harmful policies that drastic and unnecessary restructure of the erage for both prevention and treatment. would result from the American Health Care Medicaid guarantee to a per capita cap sys- AIDS United urges you to decide to vote no Act and from the changes under consider- tem as proposed in the American Health and publicly state your position prior to any ation—including the proposed ‘‘Limited Care Act (AHCA). Furthermore, we oppose vote.’’ [4/28/17] Waiver’’ amendment—that would make the the bill’s new provisions that eliminate pro- American College of Nurse-Midwives: ‘‘On bill even worse for patients.’’ [4/24/17] tections for people with pre-existing condi- behalf of the American College of Nurse-Mid- American Hospital Association: ‘‘The lat- tions as these provisions would be dev- wives, . . . we strongly urge the House of est version of the AHCA continues to put astating to people with chronic diseases and Representatives to vote NO on the revised health coverage in jeopardy for many Ameri- disabilities. . . . In addition, the modified American Health Care Act (ACHA). The leg- cans. Our top concern is what this change bill maintains the AHCA’s drastic cuts and islation, in its current form, would further could mean for older and sicker patients, in- fundamental restructuring of the Medicaid impeded access to healthcare and coverage cluding those with pre-existing conditions, program, shifting significant risks and costs for millions of women and newborns. Mid- such as cancer patients and those with to states, and to the people who need and wives stand for improving access to quality chronic conditions. For these reasons, along provide Medicaid services. . . . Lutheran care and coverage for women and newborns with our previously stated concerns about Services in America respectfully urges mem- . . . including, but not limited to, coverage the AHCA, we cannot support the bill. . . . bers of Congress to reject this or any legisla- and access to a full range of preventative, re- The amendment proposed this week would tion that would erode Medicaid, increase the productive and sexual health services under dramatically worsen the bill. The changes number of uninsured and/or decrease protec- state Medicaid programs and coverage and included put consumer protections at greater tions for preexisting conditions.’’ [4/28/17] access to essential health benefits (EHBs), risk by allowing states to waive the essential Planned Parenthood Federation of Amer- including maternity and newborn care. The health benefit standards, which could leave ica: ‘‘The latest Republican proposal to re- newly-revised AHCA language will end this patients without access to critical health peal the Affordable Care Act is the worst leg- guarantee and radically turn back the clock services and increase out-of-pocket spending. islation for women’s health in a lifetime. It on the progress made in women’s health. This could allow plans to set premium prices eliminates the community rating provision, Specifically, the ‘‘MacArthur Amendment’’ based on individual risk for some consumers, allowing insurers to charge people with pre- would enable states to apply for the ability which could significantly raise costs for existing conditions an exorbitant amount for to waive EHBs, including those for mater- those with pre-existing conditions.’’ [4/27/17] coverage. Despite the fact that the proposal nity and newborn care, to waive community America’s Essential Hospitals: ‘‘This latest claims to maintain the current prohibition rating rules, and to shift patient with pre- version of the AHCA is not an improvement. on gender rating, it still allows insurers to existing conditions or illnesses into high- It’s simply bad policy that will cut a lifeline once again discriminate against women and risk pools. These provisions, if adopted, of health care for millions of Americans. The charge more for being a woman. Eliminating could have dire consequences for women’s legislation also would leave unchanged more the community rating provision dispropor- health and health coverage.’’ [4/27/17] than $800 billion in Medicaid cuts over the tionately affects women, since insurers can AARP: ‘‘This harmful legislation still puts next decade, breaking the nation’s safety net claim having given birth, having had a C-sec- an Age Tax on older Americans and puts vul- and saddling state, local governments, and tion, or having been a survivor of domestic nerable populations at risk through a series taxpayers with new costs for indigent care. violence is a so-called pre-existing condition. of backdoor deals that attempt to shift re- The nation has spoken on the AHCA: only 17 For example, a woman who had breast can- sponsibility to states. Older Americans need percent of the public support it and their cer could be charged more than $28,000 per affordable health care services and prescrip- elected representatives have rejected it once year for coverage and a woman who was pre- tions. This legislation still goes in the oppo- already.’’ [4/26/17] viously pregnant could be charged more than site direction, increasing insurance pre- Catholic Health Association: ‘‘It is criti- $17,000 per year for . . . They took a bad bill miums for older Americans and not doing cally important to look at this bill for what that would result in 24 million people losing anything to lower drug costs. AARP con- it is. It is not in any way a health care bill. their insurance and higher premiums and ac- tinues to oppose legislation that would im- Rather, it is legislation whose aim is to take tually made it worse. [4/27/17] pose an Age Tax, eliminate protections for significant funding allocated by Congress for Federal AIDS Policy Partnership: ‘‘The un- pre-existing conditions, weaken Medicare, health care for very low income people and dersigned 77 organizations are writing to erode seniors’ ability to live independently use that money for tax cuts for some of our strongly urge you to oppose the amended because of billions of dollars in Medicaid wealthiest citizens. This is contrary to the American Health Care Act (AHCA) on behalf cuts, and give sweetheart deals to drug and spirit of who we are as a nation, a giant step of the 24 million or more Americans esti- insurance companies while doing nothing to backward that should be resisted.’’ [4/27/17] mated to lose coverage, including tens of lower the cost of health care or prescription U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: ‘‘It is thousands of people with HIV. . . . drugs. We intend to let all 38 million of our deeply disappointing to many Americans Healthcare coverage can be a life or death members know exactly how their Represent- that, in modifying the American Health Care issue for people living with HIV, and in the ative votes on this bill in newsletters, in our Act to again attempt a vote, proponents of three years that the Patient Protection and publications, on social media and in other the bill left in place its serious flaws, includ- Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage has been formats.’’ [4/26/17] ing unacceptable modifications to Medicaid available it has made a critical difference. American Medical Association: ‘‘After re- that will endanger coverage and afford- . . . We cannot afford to go back to the pre- viewing the MacArthur Amendment to H.R. ability for millions of people, according to ACA sick care system that focused on treat- 1628, the American Health Care Act (AHCA), reports,’’ said Bishop Dewane. ‘‘Sadly, some ing disability and disease rather than pre- the American Medical Association (AMA) re- of the recently proposed amendments—espe- venting it. Please support access to mains opposed to passage of this legislation. cially those designed to give states flexi- healthcare coverage for the more than 52 As we have previously stated, we are deeply bility—lack apparent safeguards to ensure million Americans living with pre-existing concerned that the AHCA would result in quality of care. These additions could se- conditions, including 1.1 million living with millions of Americans losing their current verely impact many people with pre-existing

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.072 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4167 conditions while risking for others the loss ability Partnership as well as allied organi- a remarkable achievement. However, the of access to various essential coverages.’’ [4/ zations, we are writing to strongly urge you AHCA will result in 24 million fewer Ameri- 27/17] to oppose the American Health Care Act cans having coverage, including millions of American Nurses Association: ‘‘The new (AHCA), with or without the amendment to children. Even with changes recently sug- bill is an even further departure from our allow states to waive community rating and gested to your bill, America’s kids will be principles; endangers consumer protections Essential Health Benefits protections (the best served by strengthening the Affordable put into place by the ACA. [4/26/17] MacArthur Amendment). If enacted, the Care Act and preserving Medicaid and CHIP, American Cancer Society Cancer Action amended bill will only increase the 24 mil- not by repealing the Affordable Care Act and Network: ‘‘The American Cancer Society lion Americans estimated to lose coverage block granting or establishing a per capita Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is deeply under the AHCA, including millions of indi- cap on Medicaid. We urge you to keep our concerned about a proposed amendment to viduals living with chronic conditions and children’s future foremost in your thinking, the American Health Care Act (AHCA) that disabilities. The MacArthur Amendment withdraw your bill, and work on a bipartisan would create an option for states to obtain seeks to deliver cheaper insurance to healthy basis to support measures that protect and waivers from the Essential Health Benefits Americans by undercutting crucial Essential strengthen children’s health care.’’ (EHB) and the community rating rule. These Health Benefits requirements and excluding American Hospital Association: ‘‘The lat- two rules work together to guarantee access the most vulnerable Americans from the pri- est version of the AHCA continues to put to comprehensive and affordable insurance vate insurance market by allowing states to health coverage in jeopardy for many Ameri- that covers cancer prevention and treatment remove crucial consumer protections.’’ [4/27/ cans. Our top concern is what this change for patients and survivors with pre-existing 17] could mean for older and sicker patients, in- conditions. . . . In short, the proposal could Democratic Governors Association: ‘‘This cluding those with pre-existing conditions, lead to bare bones coverage plans that push new proposal is nothing more than the re- such as cancer patients and those with significant costs onto patients who access heated leftovers of the failed Trumpcare bill. chronic conditions. For these reasons, along care.’’ [4/20/17] Just like last month’s bill, this one would with our previously stated concerns about American Lung Association: ‘‘The Amer- slash Medicaid funding, throw millions out the AHCA, we cannot support the bill. The ican Lung Association requests that Rep- of health coverage and leave states holding resentatives oppose the American Health amendment proposed this week would dra- the bag. The only fresh idea in this proposal matically worsen the bill. The changes in- Care Act (AHCA) with the new amendment is a new way to raise insurance rates on sick by Rep. MacArthur. The American Lung As- cluded put consumer protections at greater people. States are happy to work with the risk by allowing states to waive the essential sociation opposes the MacArthur amendment federal government on strengthening health health benefit standards, which could leave because would allow states to opt-out of the care, but we never asked for the flexibility to patients without access to critical health Essential Health Benefits (EHB)—resulting jack up premiums on people with pre-exist- services and increase out-of-pocket spending. in millions of Americans having inadequate ing conditions. Congress should again reject Additionally, the Congressional Budget Of- care. . . . All Americans—regardless of the this disastrous proposal that would wreck fice has not yet scored the amendment. How- state in which they live—need adequate cov- state budgets and cut millions off of health ever, CBO previously projected that the erage for the range of essential health serv- coverage.’’ [4/27/17] AHCA would result in 24 million fewer people ices and treatments including life-saving National Nurse United: ‘‘The original covered in 2026. As the backbone of Amer- cancer screening.’’ [4/26/17] version of the American Health Care Act ica’s health safety-net, hospitals and health March of Dimes: ‘‘Women and children posed a mortal threat to the health and well- systems must protect access to care for need quality, affordable insurance coverage being of our patients, and to the health secu- those who need it and ensure that the most to be born healthy and lead healthy, produc- rity of our country. The new version, which vulnerable patients are not left behind. The tive lives. Unfortunately, in its current incorporates changes negotiated between the AHCA continues to fall far short of that form, the MacArthur amendment to Amer- House Freedom Caucus and Congressman goal.’’ ican Health Care Act will deny millions of Tom MacArthur, will be even worse for our pregnant women, babies, and their families patients. This new version has not yet re- Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, under the affordable coverage and quality services ceived a score from the Congressional Budg- TrumpCare, families, seniors, vulner- they need. . . . The MacArthur amendment et Office, and it should not be considered by able children, Americans with disabil- will offer states and health plans numerous the House until a CBO score has been made opportunities to charge people with pre-ex- ities, people struggling to overcome ad- public.’’ [4/26/17] diction, and the sick will lose their isting conditions higher rates, design plans Leadership Council of Aging Organizations: that explicitly exclude the services they are ‘‘While LCAO is made up of organizations health care. Rural hospitals will be most likely to need, and erect barriers to that often have different perspectives on closed. Nearly 2 million jobs will be de- care.’’ [4/26/17] public policies, as a coalition LCAO strongly stroyed across America. Seven million Families USA: ‘‘America’s families must opposes the American Health Care Act veterans will lose access to tax credits be heard. By now, it should be clear to House (AHCA) of 2017, which would cause at least 24 Republicans and the Trump Administration for health care. million Americans to lose their health care from all the town halls, letters, phone calls And all of this, to give a massive tax insurance. We strongly oppose the Medicaid and tweets that this is not what people want. cut to the richest in America. cuts and caps that remain the core of the They do not want to return to the dark days TrumpCare is a billionaire’s tax cut, American Health Care Act. Over six million when insurers were free to charge the sick older adults rely on Medicaid. Among the again, disguised as a healthcare bill. It and old more for coverage and offered poli- non-Medicare population, Americans aged is Robin Hood in reverse, one of the cies that covered very little, often leaving 50–64 are the most likely to face health chal- largest, again, transfers of wealth from people to cope with staggering medical bills. It’s time for President Trump and the GOP lenges and have pre-existing conditions. The working families to the rich in our to drop this harmful effort to undermine the AHCA will expose these older Americans to country. nation’s health care system. It’s time to significantly higher premiums and health Today, we honor the visions of our move on.’’ [4/26/17] care costs, if they can afford to purchase Founders, we can, who risked every- American Psychological Association: ‘‘We coverage at all. We are also deeply dis- thing. They risked everything, their are writing on behalf of the American Psy- appointed that there is a push to vote on the bill without a revised estimate from the Con- lives, their liberty, their sacred honor, chological Association and the American to advance the right to life, liberty, Psychological Association Practice Organi- gressional Budget Office on how it will im- zation to express our opposition to the pact Americans. We fear and expect that the and the pursuit of happiness; the life, a American Health Care Act, as recently re- proposed changes will increase the number of healthier life, the freedom to pursue vised and proposed for floor consideration. uninsured beyond the current estimate of 24 your happiness, the freedom from being Our organizations comprise nearly 115,700 million. For these reasons, as well as other job-locked or policy-locked because of members and affiliates, who are clinicians, harms that would result for older Americans what the Republicans want to do researchers, educators, consultants, and stu- and their families, LCAO opposes AHCA and today. dents.’’ [4/26/17] urges members to vote against it.’’ Arc of the United States: ‘‘The Arc of the Common Sense Kids Action: ‘‘On behalf of Today, we fight to preserve afford- United States is strongly opposed to the the millions of American kids and families able health care as the right of every amended American Health Care Act. The who rely on comprehensive, dependable American, again, not the privileged amended American Health Care Act retains health insurance to stay healthy and to get few. the original bill’s proposals to dramatically medical treatment when they need it, we are Today, we fight for children like Zoe cut Medicaid services that are vital to people writing to respectfully express our strong op- Madison Lihn. Zoe was born with a with disabilities and seniors through per cap- position to your bill, H.R. 1628, the American congenital heart defect in May of 2010. Health Care Act (AHCA). Thanks to current ita caps. The new amendments make the She faced her first of three heart sur- AHCA even more harmful to people with dis- law, including the Affordable Care Act, Med- abilities.’’ [4/26/17] icaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance geries at 15 hours old. By 6 months old, Chronic Illness and Disability Partnership: Program (CHIP), 95% of young children in Zoe was halfway to her lifetime limit ‘‘On behalf of the Chronic Illness and Dis- the U.S. today have health insurance. That’s her insurer had placed on her. She

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.073 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4168 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 faced a grim future, not only using up Does TrumpCare protect seniors and for people to afford their health insur- her lifetime limit by preschool but by families? ance. Let’s give people more choices carrying a preexisting condition that Is TrumpCare good for our veterans? and more control over their care. Let’s will require attention and care for the Is there any caring in TrumpCare at make insurance companies come in and rest of her life. all? compete for your business. Let’s return Under the Affordable Care Act, Zoe is For the sake of our values, to honor power from Washington to the States. protected, but TrumpCare puts her fu- our responsibilities to our Founders, Let’s help give people peace of mind. ture in danger. life, liberty, and the pursuit of happi- Let’s put the patient, not bureaucrats, I wish that our Members who vote for ness, to our veterans who protect us, at the center of this system. This bill this bill, I hope you make time to sit and to our children whose aspirations does all of those things. This bill deliv- down with the parents of a newborn are our guide, I urge my colleagues to ers the promises that we have made to with a heart condition, or a young vote ‘‘no’’ on this disastrous the American people. woman who just learned she had breast TrumpCare bill. A lot of us have been waiting 7 years cancer, the family of loved ones strug- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- to cast this vote. Many of us are here gling with a disease or a chronic condi- bers are reminded to address their re- because we pledged to cast this very tion, any of the tens of millions of marks to the Chair. vote to repeal and replace ObamaCare, Americans who are rightfully terrified Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, to rescue people from this collapsing of what TrumpCare will mean in their I yield back the balance of my time. law. lives. Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, it really Are we going to meet this test? Are Mr. Speaker, we have, with this bill, is my privilege now to yield 1 minute we going to be men and women of our a right, a wonderful opportunity. This to the distinguished gentleman from word? Are we going to keep the prom- is one of the best civics lessons we can Wisconsin (Mr. RYAN), the Speaker of ises that we made? Or are we going to engage in. Because of what happened the House. falter? following the election, the American Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. First off, No. After all of this—after seeing people are engaged. They are paying there are a few people I would like to what is happening in Iowa and around attention. I am not saying in a polit- thank. I would like to thank the com- the country, after seeing this law col- ical way, I am saying in a personal mittee chairs. I would like to thank lapsing while we witness it across the way. Chairman WALDEN, Chairman BRADY, country and knowing all this turmoil A former Speaker said: All politics is Chairman BLACK, Chairman SESSIONS. that is coming, we will not falter. We local. In the case of health care, all I want to thank the members of will replace; and today is the day that politics is personal when it comes to those committees: Energy and Com- we are going to do this. health care. And so, this civics lesson merce, Ways and Means, Budget, and Today this House has the oppor- will teach the American people a num- Rules. tunity to do more than just fulfill a ber of things. I want to thank all the Members who promise. We have the opportunity to As special as we think we are when made constructive contributions raise our gaze and set a bold course for we come to the floor here, most Ameri- throughout this entire deliberative, our country. We have the opportunity cans don’t know who their Member of bottom-up organic process. to show that we have got the resolve to Congress is. But they will now, when I want to thank the President of the tackle the big challenges in this coun- they find out that you voted to take United States for his steadfast leader- try before they tackle us; to stop the away their health care. They will know ship. drift of arrogant, Big Government poli- when you put an age tax on them, or b 1345 cies in our lives, and to begin a new era undermine Medicare and Medicaid and of reform based on liberty and self-de- the rest. Mr. Speaker, in his address in this termination, giving people choices and Oh, yeah, they are paying attention Chamber, he called on Congress to act; letting them control their own des- because it is really personal with them and today we take the next step to re- tinies. and their families. So I think we have peal and replace ObamaCare. That is the day that is before us right to get ready for that. I want to thank Vice President here. So let us pass this bill to take the I have Members, I have colleagues PENCE, Secretary Price, Director next step to put ObamaCare behind us; who have the mantle of being a mod- Mulvaney, and all of their teams. let us pass this bill to build a better erate. You vote for this bill, you have Mr. Speaker, there is a fundamental healthcare system for American fami- walked the plank from moderate to and urgent choice at the heart of this lies; and let us pass this bill to leave radical. And you are walking the plank debate. We can continue with the sta- this country better than we found it for what? A bill that will not be accept- tus quo under ObamaCare, and we because that is why we are here. ed by the United States Senate. Why know what this looks like. It means That is what is at stake today. That are you doing this? even higher premiums, even fewer is why I am going to be so proud to Do you believe in what is in this bill? choices, even more insurance compa- cast my vote for this legislation, and I Some of you have said: Well, they nies pulling out, even more uncer- urge all of my colleagues to do the will fix it in the Senate. But you have tainty, and even more chaos. same. every provision of this bill tattooed on Look at what has happened in Iowa Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, I yield your forehead. You will glow in the this week. As is the case in so many back the balance of my time. dark on this one. You will glow in the areas in this country, Iowa is down to Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in dark. So don’t walk the plank, espe- one insurer. That, of course, is not a strong opposition to the Republicans’ latest cially unnecessarily. choice. But now that one insurer is version of Trumpcare. Our responsibility to the sick and the saying that it will have to pull out of Trumpcare will cover fewer people, provide hurt is Biblical. It is fundamental to 94 of the 99 counties in Iowa. This is weaker protections, and result in higher costs. who we are. happening right now. So tens of thou- Trumpcare will eviscerate essential health As Pope Francis said: ‘‘Health is not sands of Iowans will go from having benefits and protections for pre-existing condi- a consumer good but a universal right, one option to no options. That is not a tions and make it all but impossible for millions so access to health services cannot be a choice. This is a crisis, and it is hap- of Americans fighting illness to afford the privilege.’’ pening right now. health coverage they desperately need. Today, let us declare, once again, What protection is ObamaCare if Trumpcare will mean higher costs for less that affordable health care must be the there is no healthcare plan to purchase coverage. right of every American, not the privi- in your State? It will result in 24 million hard-working Amer- leged few. This is the direction ObamaCare is icans losing health coverage. So I ask you, my colleagues, does rapidly heading. So we can continue It will destroy protections for Americans with TrumpCare lower health costs? with this status quo or we can put this pre-existing conditions and gut Essential Does TrumpCare provide better collapsing law behind us and end this Health Benefits, such as maternity, prescrip- health care? failed experiment. Let’s make it easier tion drug coverage, and emergency coverage.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.095 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4169 Trumpcare will create a crushing age tax— Practically every professional healthcare of state laws that require coverage of abortion. it will force Americans aged 50–64 to pay pre- group in America is opposed to the AHCA. Reports have come out that sexual assault miums five times higher than what others pay It will spell disaster for residents of Illinois. and domestic violence would, once again, be for health coverage, no matter how healthy Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, the Republicans considered a pre-existing condition, making in- they are. have rushed this bill to the floor before they surance unaffordable for survivors. The Wall Mr. Speaker, healthcare should be a right even had a chance to print the text, let alone Street Journal reported that the bill could allow for all, not just the privileged few. I will vote get a CBO score. They are pushing this bill employers to reinstate lifetime caps and elimi- against Trumpcare and urge all my colleagues through without any analysis so that the Amer- nate out-of-pocket caps for their employees’ to vote no. ican people won’t know how terrible this bill insurance plans, leaving the 159 million Ameri- Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise once again in really is—how many millions of people will cans who get insurance through their em- strong opposition to H.R. 1628, which is a bill lose their health insurance, how much pre- ployer with no insurance coverage when they to take away health care from 24 million miums will skyrocket for those with pre-exist- need it most. That’s right—if you think that be- Americans. ing conditions, how little money they will actu- cause you don’t buy insurance on the ex- Whether you believe it or not, health care is ally save. And all to score empty political change and therefore don’t have to worry a basic right. points or to impress Donald Trump, a man about this bill, you’re wrong. I have no doubt This shameful bill steals from the most vul- who has demonstrated again and again that that in the time it takes to read this statement nerable among us, including seniors, veterans, he does not know or care what is in this bill, another round of articles and reports will come people living with HIV, children, and the dis- and just wants to ‘‘win.’’ out finding even more abhorrent con- abled. And this new bill is even more dan- This bill is the same terrible legislation the sequences of this contemptible piece of legis- gerous and destructive than when they Republicans failed to pass in March, but with lation. brought it to the Floor last time. amendments to make it even more cruel to So I ask my Republican colleagues—who It would, yes, rip away health care from 24 the American people. The bill will kick 24 mil- are you passing this bill for? Are you so out million people. It would reduce benefits, make lion people off their health insurance and of touch with the lives of real Americans that families pay more for less, and transfer $600 eliminate employer-provided coverage for you no longer understand what it means to billion in tax cuts to the very wealthy. seven million people. The bill creates an ‘‘age struggle to pay your medical bills? Have you This is outrageous. tax’’ that would allow insurers to charge older traveled so far from the values you claim to Access to women’s health is denied by Americans five times as much as a younger uphold that you are willing to force parents to defunding Planned Parenthood. Medicaid, as person for the same plan. The bill raises pre- watch their children die of curable diseases we know it, will end. Healthcare costs for miums 30 percent for people who allow their because they have reached the lifetime cap working families and seniors will skyrocket. insurance to lapse for any reason. The bill on covered costs that your bill reinstates, and It allows states to eliminate essential health cuts $880 billion out of Medicad and forces they can no longer afford to pay for treatment? benefits like maternity care, cancer states to ration care to the millions of families Are you willing to gamble away their lives and screenings, and emergency care. and children who rely on it, in clear violation Mr. Speaker, this is not a health bill at all. the lives of their children just to say you of Donald Trump’s campaign pledge. The bill passed a bill to repeal the Affordable Care This is a massive tax giveaway to the wealthy. gives the wealthiest Americans a trillion dollar Let me tell you, as a woman of faith, I am Act? tax cut and cuts taxes on drug companies and appalled and I am saddened by the hypocrisy Shame on any member who votes for this health insurance companies that pay their displayed in this bill by people who say they cowardly, cruel bill and tries to sell this bill to CEOs more than $500,000. their constituents as a win for the American are religious. But that bill wasn’t terrible enough to get the I want to remind you—in the Scriptures, the people. Shame on this House for even consid- votes of the right wing of the Republicans in Book of Mark, chapter 12:31, we are reminded ering a bill that could leave the most vulner- the House, so the Republicans made it even to love your neighbor as yourself. able in our country—children born with disabil- crueler. The amendments the Republicans will I hope Republicans remember to love their ities, women fleeing domestic violence, older add today allow states to waive the essential neighbor as themselves today and vote ‘‘no’’ Americans too sick to buy insurance but too health benefits requirements for insurance on this mean-spirited, evil and morally bank- young to enroll in Medicare—at the mercy of plans, meaning you could lose coverage for rupt bill. insurance companies and fate. Shame on you This is a matter of life and death, and the services as basic as hospital stays, prescrip- for playing political games with people’s lives. American people deserve better. tion drugs, or doctor visits. States will also be Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speak- able to waive the guarantee against discrimi- Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the Amer- er, first of all, the Affordable Healthcare Act is nation against people with pre-existing condi- ican Care Act. After seven years, the Repub- the best thing that has happened to healthcare tions. Of course, the Republicans are saying licans have released a plan that works to kick in the U.S. since the mid 1960’s when Con- that insurance companies cannot deny people people off health insurance very quickly, in- gress passed Medicare and Medicaid. More coverage, but insurers will be able to charge creases out-of-pocket costs, and punishes than twenty million people in our country have people whatever they want. The Center for older and sicker Americans. This is not the health insurance coverage now who never had American Progress estimates that premiums package that I envisioned. it before. could increase by over $36,000 per year for Some of the key features of the Affordable In Illinois, 36 percent of children receive people diagnosed with breast cancer. Preg- Care Act that millions of people relied on coverage through Medicaid with approximately nancy will result in a $17,000 increase in pre- would be gone under this proposal. Under the 3.1 million people covered overall. miums. Asthma, a $4,000 increase. The high Affordable Care Act, states could expand There are 649,000 Illinoisans enrolled under risk pools Republicans are touting will do noth- Medicaid, but this proposal would freeze en- the Affordable Care Act, this bill AHCA would ing to protect people by sequestering the sick- rollment to expanded Medicaid at January 1, repeal and replace the ACA. est Americans in pools and then drastically 2020. On that date, enrollees who drop off of Implementation of the AHCA will lead to a underfunding them. The Republicans are hid- Medicaid due to income changes would not be loss of coverage for 24 million people nation- ing from these numbers behind the so-called able to return to Medicaid coverage if they wide. Upton Amendment, which provides a paltry $8 dropped on for one full month. The proposal Overall 44,296 Illinoisans covered under the billion to cover some extra costs for those with also changes Medicaid funding to a per capita ACA and 252,612 covered under Medicaid ex- pre-existing conditions. But even the conserv- cap system which will lead to deep cuts to pansion will be in danger of curtailed cov- ative Mercatus Foundation found that to be Medicaid in my home state of Texas. This erage. less than a pittance compared with the sky- punishes low-income Americans who would Healthcare professionals and activists have rocketing costs for those who need it. otherwise have no access to health insurance. worked hard over the past fifty years to im- Every day, we are finding new egregious This piece of legislation forces Americans to prove healthcare access and delivery and it consequences of this legislation. Last night, pay more and get less. The average subsidy would be a shame to have us go backwards. the New York Times reported that passing this under the American Health Care Act will likely Passage of the AHCA would probably cause bill will cut special education programs to over be about 60 percent of the average subsidy real estate taxes in Cook County to go up in 2500 students with disabilities. Yesterday, the under current law. Deductibles and out-of- order to keep Stroger Hospital and its other Center for Budget and Policy Priorities re- pocket spending in the individual market will health services adequately funded to meet the ported that the tax credits Republicans are have to increase due to the elimination of re- health needs of the medically indigent in Cook proposing in this bill will be totally unusable in quirements that insurance plans cover a cer- County. states like California and New York because tain value. Americans will pay more for their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.068 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4170 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 premiums, more for their care, more on out-of- health and well-being of America’s kids and will resume on questions previously pocket expenses and deductibles; all the while will alarm any parent who understands the postponed. giving tax breaks to the wealthy and the tan- importance of health insurance for their Votes will be taken in the following children and family. The Affordable Care Act ning industry. certainly needs to be fixed, but if Congress order: One amendment to this bill would repeal the has the goal of making sure that all families The question on passage of H.R. 2192; Essential Health Benefits, the ten coverage and businesses have access to affordable and The question on passage of H.R. 1628; rules set up by the Affordable Care Act. The comprehensive health insurance, it could im- and Affordable Care Act required insurers to cover prove the law for everyone without forcing The motion to suspend the rules and ten ‘‘Essential Health Benefits’’ from maternity millions of kids and their parents to lose ac- pass H.R. 1644. care, mental health, and prescription drugs, to cess to critical medical care. As Congress continues to grapple with this The first electronic vote will be con- hospitalization and outpatient care. If this is re- issue, health insurance programs, we think ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining pealed, comprehensive health insurance will these facts about children’s health insurance electronic votes will be conducted as 5- become virtually unavailable in the individual from the Congressional Budget Office and minutes votes. market. This means that individuals with pre- the Georgetown University Center for Chil- f existing conditions would not be protected. dren and Families are important to keep in Younger and healthier people benefit, older mind: Ninety-five percent of children age 0–5 are PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE ACT and sicker people suffer. insured today. AMENDMENT Another amendment would allow states to Forty-five million of those children access The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- waive out of the Affordable Care Act’s ban on health care through two programs: about 37 finished business is the vote on passage pre-existing conditions. However, Members of million through Medicaid (a federal-state of the bill (H.R. 2192) to amend the Congress and their staff would be protected program) and 8 million through CHIP, the Public Health Service Act to eliminate from this provision and would be guaranteed Children’s Health Insurance Program. Children are the single-largest group of the non-application of certain State coverage of pre-existing conditions. persons covered under Medicaid. waiver provisions to Members of Con- Mr. Speaker, the public has spoken about Under the Affordable Care Act, as you this so-called ‘‘replacement’’ bill. People will gress and congressional staff, on which know, many states expanded Medicaid with the yeas and nays were ordered. live or die as a result of this legislation. The help from the federal government, increasing Republican leadership has rushed this bill to coverage for kids and families, including The Clerk read the title of the bill. the floor without any consideration and I urge coverage for mental health care. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The you all to consider its harmful effects. Your Changes being considered, including under question is on the passage of the bill. the AHCA, would cut funding to Medicaid by The vote was taken by electronic de- constituents are asking you to work with us to as much as $880 billion over the next 10 repair the Affordable Care Act. Work with us. vice, and there were—yeas 429, nays 0, years. not voting 2, as follows: Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, include in for the The AHCA, when compared with current RECORD a letter from common sense kids ac- law, would result in 24 million fewer Ameri- [Roll No. 255] tion: cans with health insurance by the year 2026. YEAS—429 Even with changes recently suggested to COMMON SENSE KIDS ACTION, Abraham Carter (TX) Doggett your bill, America’s kids will be best served April 25, 2017. Adams Cartwright Donovan by strengthening the Affordable Care Act Re H.R. 1628—OPPOSE Aderholt Castor (FL) Doyle, Michael and preserving Medicaid and CHIP, not by Aguilar Castro (TX) F. Hon. DIANE BLACK, repealing the Affordable Care Act and block Allen Chabot Duffy Chairwoman, House Budget Committee, House granting or establishing a per capita cap on Amash Chaffetz Duncan (SC) of Representatives, Washington, DC. Medicaid. We urge you to keep our children’s Amodei Cheney Duncan (TN) DEAR REPRESENTATIVE BLACK: On behalf of future foremost in your thinking, withdraw Arrington Chu, Judy Dunn Babin Cicilline Ellison the millions of American kids and families your bill, and work on a bipartisan basis to who rely on comprehensive, dependable Bacon Clark (MA) Emmer support measures that protect and strength- Banks (IN) Clarke (NY) Engel health insurance to stay healthy and to get en children’s health care. Thank you for Barletta Clay Eshoo medical treatment when they need it, we are your consideration of our views and we Barr Cleaver Espaillat writing to respectfully express our strong op- would be happy to talk with you at any time Barraga´ n Clyburn Estes (KS) position to your bill, H.R. 1628, the American about this and other issues that matter to Barton Coffman Esty (CT) Health Care Act (AHCA). We have added this America’s children and families. Bass Cohen Evans bill to our Common Sense Legislative Rat- Sincerely, Beatty Cole Farenthold ings Tool as an ‘‘Against Kids’’ bill and will Bera Collins (GA) Faso DANNY WEISS, Bergman Collins (NY) Ferguson communicate our position to our parent and Vice President, Federal Policy. Beyer Comer Fitzpatrick teacher members. The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time Biggs Comstock Fleischmann Common Sense is the nation’s leading for debate has expired. Bilirakis Conaway Flores independent nonprofit organization dedi- Bishop (GA) Connolly Fortenberry cated to helping kids thrive in a rapidly Pursuant to House Resolution 228, Bishop (MI) Conyers Foster changing world. We empower parents, teach- the previous question is ordered on the Bishop (UT) Cook Foxx ers, and policymakers by providing unbiased bill, as amended. Black Cooper Frankel (FL) information, trusted advice, and innovative The question is on the engrossment Blackburn Correa Franks (AZ) Blum Costa Frelinghuysen tools to help them harness the power of and third reading of the bill. Blumenauer Costello (PA) Fudge media and technology as a positive force in The bill was ordered to be engrossed Blunt Rochester Courtney Gabbard all kids’ lives. The policy arm, Common and read a third time, and was read the Bonamici Cramer Gaetz Sense Kids Action, is building a movement of third time. Bost Crawford Gallagher parents, teachers, business leaders, and oth- Boyle, Brendan Crist Gallego The SPEAKER pro tempore. The F. Crowley Garamendi ers dedicated to making kids our nation’s question is on the passage of the bill. top priority by supporting policies at the Brady (PA) Cuellar Garrett The question was taken; and the Brady (TX) Culberson Gibbs state and federal level that contribute to the Speaker pro tempore announced that Brat Cummings Gohmert building blocks of opportunity for kids. Ac- the ayes appeared to have it. Bridenstine Curbelo (FL) Gonzalez (TX) cess to affordable and quality medical care Brooks (AL) Davidson Goodlatte for kids is certainly one of those key build- RECORDED VOTE Brooks (IN) Davis (CA) Gosar ing blocks. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Brown (MD) Davis, Danny Gottheimer Thanks to current law, including the Af- I demand a recorded vote. Brownley (CA) Davis, Rodney Gowdy fordable Care Act, Medicaid, and the Chil- Buchanan DeFazio Granger A recorded vote was ordered. Buck DeGette Graves (GA) dren’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bucshon Delaney Graves (LA) 95% of young children in the U.S. today have ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- Budd DeLauro Graves (MO) health insurance. That’s a remarkable ceedings on this question will be post- Burgess DelBene Green, Al achievement. With health insurance, parents poned. Bustos Demings Green, Gene are more likely to seek medical care for Butterfield Denham Griffith themselves and for their children, helping to f Byrne Dent Grijalva prevent illnesses from developing and short- Calvert DeSantis Grothman ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Capuano DeSaulnier Guthrie ening their duration when they occur. How- PRO TEMPORE Carbajal DesJarlais Gutie´rrez ever, the AHCA will result in 24 million Ca´ rdenas Deutch Hanabusa fewer Americans having coverage, including The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Carson (IN) Diaz-Balart Harper millions of children. This jeopardizes the ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Carter (GA) Dingell Harris

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.071 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4171 Hartzler Mast Ryan (WI) A motion to reconsider was laid on Wenstrup Wittman Yoho Hastings Matsui Sa´ nchez the table. Westerman Womack Young (AK) Heck McCarthy Sanford Williams Woodall Young (IA) Hensarling McCaul Sarbanes f Wilson (SC) Yoder Zeldin Herrera Beutler McClintock Scalise Hice, Jody B. McCollum Schakowsky AMERICAN HEALTH CARE ACT OF NOES—213 Higgins (LA) McEachin Schiff 2017 Higgins (NY) McGovern Schneider Adams Gabbard Napolitano Hill McHenry Schrader The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Aguilar Gallego Neal Himes McKinley Barraga´ n Garamendi Nolan Schweikert SIMPSON). The unfinished business is Holding McMorris Scott (VA) Bass Gonzalez (TX) Norcross Hollingsworth Rodgers Scott, Austin the vote on passage of the bill (H.R. Beatty Gottheimer O’Halleran Hudson McNerney Scott, David 1628) to provide for reconciliation pur- Bera Green, Al O’Rourke Huffman McSally Sensenbrenner suant to title II of the concurrent reso- Beyer Green, Gene Pallone Huizenga Meadows Serrano Biggs Grijalva Panetta Hultgren Meehan lution on the budget for fiscal year ´ Sessions Bishop (GA) Gutierrez Pascrell Hunter Meeks Sewell (AL) 2017, on which a recorded vote was or- Blumenauer Hanabusa Payne Hurd Meng Shea-Porter dered. Blunt Rochester Hastings Pelosi Issa Messer Sherman Bonamici Heck Perlmutter Jackson Lee Mitchell The Clerk read the title of the bill. Shimkus Boyle, Brendan Herrera Beutler Peters Jayapal Moolenaar The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Shuster F. Higgins (NY) Peterson Jeffries Mooney (WV) question is on the passage of the bill. Brady (PA) Himes Pingree Jenkins (KS) Moore Simpson Brown (MD) Hoyer Pocan Jenkins (WV) Moulton Sinema This will be a 5-minute vote. Brownley (CA) Huffman Polis Johnson (GA) Mullin Sires The vote was taken by electronic de- Bustos Hurd Price (NC) Johnson (LA) Murphy (FL) Slaughter vice, and there were—ayes 217, noes 213, Smith (MO) Butterfield Jackson Lee Quigley Johnson (OH) Murphy (PA) not voting 1, as follows: Capuano Jayapal Johnson, E. B. Nadler Smith (NE) Raskin Smith (NJ) [Roll No. 256] Carbajal Jeffries Reichert Johnson, Sam Napolitano Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Jones Neal Smith (TX) Rice (NY) AYES—217 Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Jordan Noem Smith (WA) Richmond Cartwright Jones Joyce (OH) Nolan Smucker Abraham Gallagher Mooney (WV) Ros-Lehtinen Castor (FL) Joyce (OH) Kaptur Norcross Soto Aderholt Garrett Mullin Rosen Castro (TX) Kaptur Katko Nunes Speier Allen Gibbs Murphy (PA) Roybal-Allard Chu, Judy Katko Keating O’Halleran Stefanik Amash Gohmert Noem Ruiz Cicilline Kelly (IL) O’Rourke Stewart Amodei Goodlatte Nunes Keating Ruppersberger Kelly (MS) Olson Stivers Arrington Gosar Olson Clark (MA) Kelly (IL) Rush Clarke (NY) Kelly (PA) Palazzo Suozzi Babin Gowdy Palazzo Kennedy Ryan (OH) Clay Khanna Kennedy Pallone Swalwell (CA) Bacon Granger Palmer Sa´ nchez Banks (IN) Graves (GA) Paulsen Cleaver Kihuen Khanna Palmer Takano Sarbanes Barletta Graves (LA) Pearce Clyburn Kildee Kihuen Panetta Taylor Schakowsky Barr Graves (MO) Perry Coffman Kilmer Kildee Pascrell Tenney Schiff Barton Griffith Pittenger Cohen Kind Kilmer Paulsen Thompson (CA) Schneider Bergman Grothman Poe (TX) Comstock Krishnamoorthi Kind Payne Thompson (MS) Schrader Bilirakis Guthrie Poliquin Connolly Kuster (NH) King (IA) Pearce Thompson (PA) Scott (VA) Bishop (MI) Harper Posey Conyers Lance King (NY) Pelosi Thornberry Scott, David Kinzinger Perlmutter Bishop (UT) Harris Ratcliffe Cooper Langevin Tiberi Serrano Knight Perry Black Hartzler Reed Correa Larsen (WA) Tipton Sewell (AL) Krishnamoorthi Peters Blackburn Hensarling Renacci Costa Larson (CT) Titus Shea-Porter Kuster (NH) Peterson Blum Hice, Jody B. Rice (SC) Costello (PA) Lawrence Tonko Bost Higgins (LA) Roby Sherman Kustoff (TN) Pingree Torres Courtney Lawson (FL) Labrador Pittenger Brady (TX) Hill Roe (TN) Sinema Trott Crist Lee LaHood Pocan Brat Holding Rogers (AL) Sires Tsongas Crowley Levin LaMalfa Poe (TX) Bridenstine Hollingsworth Rogers (KY) Slaughter Turner Cuellar Lewis (GA) Lamborn Poliquin Brooks (AL) Hudson Rohrabacher Cummings Lieu, Ted Smith (NJ) Upton Brooks (IN) Huizenga Rokita Lance Polis Davis (CA) Lipinski Smith (WA) Valadao Buchanan Hultgren Rooney, Francis Langevin Posey Davis, Danny LoBiondo Soto Vargas Buck Hunter Rooney, Thomas Larsen (WA) Price (NC) DeFazio Loebsack Speier Veasey Bucshon Issa J. Larson (CT) Quigley DeGette Lofgren Suozzi Vela Budd Jenkins (KS) Roskam Latta Raskin Delaney Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) Vela´ zquez Burgess Jenkins (WV) Ross Lawrence Ratcliffe DeLauro Lowey Takano Visclosky Byrne Johnson (LA) Rothfus Lawson (FL) Reed DelBene Lujan Grisham, Thompson (CA) Lee Reichert Wagner Calvert Johnson (OH) Rouzer Thompson (MS) Walberg Carter (GA) Johnson, Sam Royce (CA) Demings M. Levin Renacci ´ Titus Walden Dent Lujan, Ben Ray Lewis (GA) Rice (NY) Carter (TX) Jordan Russell Tonko Walker DeSaulnier Lynch Lewis (MN) Rice (SC) Chabot Kelly (MS) Rutherford Torres Walorski Chaffetz Kelly (PA) Ryan (WI) Deutch Maloney, Lieu, Ted Richmond Tsongas Walters, Mimi Cheney King (IA) Sanford Dingell Carolyn B. Lipinski Roby Turner Walz Cole King (NY) Scalise Doggett Maloney, Sean LoBiondo Roe (TN) Vargas Wasserman Collins (GA) Kinzinger Schweikert Donovan Massie Loebsack Rogers (AL) Veasey Schultz Collins (NY) Knight Scott, Austin Doyle, Michael Matsui Lofgren Rogers (KY) Vela Waters, Maxine Comer Kustoff (TN) Sensenbrenner F. McCollum Long Rohrabacher Vela´ zquez Watson Coleman Conaway Labrador Sessions Ellison McEachin Loudermilk Rokita Engel McGovern Visclosky Love Rooney, Francis Weber (TX) Cook LaHood Shimkus Eshoo McNerney Walz Lowenthal Rooney, Thomas Webster (FL) Cramer LaMalfa Shuster Espaillat Meehan Wasserman Lowey J. Welch Crawford Lamborn Simpson Esty (CT) Meeks Schultz Lucas Ros-Lehtinen Wenstrup Culberson Latta Smith (MO) Evans Meng Waters, Maxine Luetkemeyer Rosen Westerman Curbelo (FL) Lewis (MN) Smith (NE) Fitzpatrick Moore Watson Coleman Lujan Grisham, Roskam Williams Davidson Long Smith (TX) Foster Moulton Welch M. Ross Wilson (FL) Davis, Rodney Loudermilk Smucker Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Wilson (FL) Luja´ n, Ben Ray Rothfus Wilson (SC) Denham Love Stefanik Fudge Nadler Yarmuth Lynch Rouzer Wittman DeSantis Lucas Stewart MacArthur Roybal-Allard Womack DesJarlais Luetkemeyer Stivers Maloney, Royce (CA) Woodall Diaz-Balart MacArthur Taylor NOT VOTING—1 Duffy Marchant Tenney Carolyn B. Ruiz Yarmuth Newhouse Maloney, Sean Ruppersberger Yoder Duncan (SC) Marino Thompson (PA) Marchant Rush Yoho Duncan (TN) Marshall Thornberry Marino Russell Young (AK) Dunn Mast Tiberi b 1418 Marshall Rutherford Young (IA) Emmer McCarthy Tipton Massie Ryan (OH) Zeldin Estes (KS) McCaul Trott Farenthold McClintock Upton Mr. CLEAVER changed his vote from NOT VOTING—2 Faso McHenry Valadao ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Hoyer Newhouse Ferguson McKinley Wagner Fleischmann McMorris Walberg So the bill was passed. Flores Rodgers Walden The result of the vote was announced b 1410 Fortenberry McSally Walker as above recorded. So the bill was passed. Foxx Meadows Walorski Franks (AZ) Messer Walters, Mimi The result of the vote was announced Frelinghuysen Mitchell Weber (TX) A motion to reconsider was laid on as above recorded. Gaetz Moolenaar Webster (FL) the table.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.075 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4172 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 KOREAN INTERDICTION AND MOD- Knight Noem Serrano U.S. WANTS TO COMPETE FOR A Krishnamoorthi Nolan Sessions ERNIZATION OF SANCTIONS ACT Kuster (NH) Norcross Sewell (AL) WORLD EXPO ACT The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Kustoff (TN) Nunes Shea-Porter Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I ask Labrador O’Halleran Sherman unanimous consent to take from the finished business is the vote on the mo- LaHood O’Rourke Shimkus tion to suspend the rules and pass the LaMalfa Olson Shuster Speaker’s table the bill (H.R. 534) to re- bill (H.R. 1644) to enhance sanctions Lamborn Palazzo Simpson quire the Secretary of State to take with respect to transactions relating to Lance Pallone Sinema such actions as may be necessary for Langevin Palmer Sires North Korea, and for other purposes, as Larsen (WA) Panetta Slaughter the United States to rejoin the Bureau amended, on which the yeas and nays Larson (CT) Pascrell Smith (MO) of International Expositions, and for were ordered. Latta Paulsen Smith (NE) other purposes, with the Senate Lawrence Payne Smith (NJ) amendment thereto, and concur in the The Clerk read the title of the bill. Lawson (FL) Pearce Smith (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Lee Pelosi Smith (WA) Senate amendment. question is on the motion offered by Levin Perlmutter Smucker The Clerk read the title of the bill. the gentleman from California (Mr. Lewis (GA) Perry Soto The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Lewis (MN) Peters Speier KUSTOFF of Tennessee). The Clerk will ROYCE) that the House suspend the Lieu, Ted Peterson Stefanik rules and pass the bill, as amended. Lipinski Pingree Stewart report the Senate amendment. This will be a 5-minute vote. LoBiondo Pittenger Stivers The Clerk read as follows: Loebsack Pocan Suozzi Senate amendment: The vote was taken by electronic de- Lofgren Poe (TX) Swalwell (CA) Strike out all after the enacting clause and vice, and there were—yeas 419, nays 1, Long Poliquin Takano insert: not voting 10, as follows: Loudermilk Polis Taylor Love Posey Thompson (CA) SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. [Roll No. 257] Lowenthal Price (NC) Thompson (MS) This Act may be cited as the ‘‘U.S. Wants to YEAS—419 Lowey Quigley Thompson (PA) Compete for a World Expo Act’’. Lucas Ratcliffe Thornberry SEC. 2. FINDINGS. Abraham Collins (NY) Garamendi Luetkemeyer Reed Tiberi Adams Comer Garrett Lujan Grisham, Reichert Tipton Congress finds the following: Aguilar Comstock Gibbs M. Renacci Titus (1) The Bureau of International Expositions Allen Conaway Gohmert Luja´ n, Ben Ray Rice (NY) Tonko (BIE) is the organization responsible for gov- Amash Connolly Gonzalez (TX) Lynch Rice (SC) Trott erning World Fairs and International Expo- Amodei Conyers Goodlatte MacArthur Richmond Tsongas sitions. Arrington Cook Gosar Maloney, Roby Turner (2) Section 1(a) of Public Law 91–269 (22 Babin Cooper Gottheimer Carolyn B. Roe (TN) Upton Bacon Correa Gowdy U.S.C. 2801(a)) found that ‘‘international expo- Maloney, Sean Rogers (AL) Valadao sitions . . . have a significant impact on the eco- Banks (IN) Costa Granger Marchant Rogers (KY) Vargas Barletta Costello (PA) Graves (GA) Marino Rohrabacher Veasey nomic growth of the region surrounding the ex- Barr Courtney Graves (LA) Marshall Rokita Vela position and . . . are important instruments of Barraga´ n Cramer Graves (MO) Mast Rooney, Francis Vela´ zquez national policy’’. Barton Crawford Green, Al Matsui Rooney, Thomas Visclosky (3) The United States has not been an active Bass Crist Green, Gene McCarthy J. Wagner member of the BIE since 2001. Beatty Crowley Griffith McCaul Ros-Lehtinen Walberg (4) State and local governments and private Bera Cuellar Grijalva McClintock Rosen Walden Bergman Culberson Grothman entities in the United States have continued to McCollum Roskam Walker participate in international expositions held in Beyer Cummings Guthrie McEachin Ross Walorski Biggs Curbelo (FL) Gutie´rrez McGovern Rothfus Walters, Mimi foreign countries as a means of promoting Bilirakis Davidson Hanabusa McHenry Rouzer Walz United States exports and creating jobs, but face Bishop (GA) Davis (CA) Harper McKinley Roybal-Allard Wasserman significantly higher costs for such participation Bishop (UT) Davis, Danny Harris McMorris Royce (CA) Schultz because the United States is not an active mem- Black Davis, Rodney Hartzler Rodgers Ruiz Waters, Maxine ber. Blackburn DeFazio Hastings McNerney Ruppersberger Watson Coleman Blum DeGette Heck (5) State and local governments and private McSally Rush Weber (TX) entities in the United States have expressed in- Blumenauer Delaney Hensarling Meadows Russell Webster (FL) Blunt Rochester DeLauro Herrera Beutler Meehan Rutherford Welch terest in an international exposition being Bonamici DelBene Hice, Jody B. Meeks Ryan (OH) Wenstrup hosted in the United States, but the bid of a Bost Demings Higgins (LA) Meng Sa´ nchez Westerman United States city, region, or State to host an Boyle, Brendan Denham Hill Messer Sanford Williams international exposition is unlikely to be suc- F. Dent Himes Mitchell Sarbanes Wilson (FL) cessful if the United States is not a member of Brady (PA) DeSantis Holding Moolenaar Scalise Wilson (SC) the BIE. Brady (TX) DeSaulnier Hollingsworth Mooney (WV) Schakowsky Wittman SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS. Brat DesJarlais Hoyer Moore Schiff Womack Bridenstine Deutch Hudson Moulton Schneider Woodall It is the sense of Congress that— Brooks (AL) Diaz-Balart Huffman Mullin Schrader Yarmuth (1) the United States should rejoin the BIE Brooks (IN) Dingell Huizenga Murphy (FL) Schweikert Yoder immediately to promote domestic job creation, Brown (MD) Doggett Hultgren Murphy (PA) Scott (VA) Yoho global branding, and tourism to the United Brownley (CA) Donovan Hunter Nadler Scott, Austin Young (AK) States; and Buchanan Doyle, Michael Hurd Napolitano Scott, David Young (IA) (2) the Secretary of State, in partnership with Buck F. Issa Neal Sensenbrenner Zeldin Bucshon Duffy Jackson Lee the Secretary of Commerce, State and local gov- Budd Duncan (SC) Jayapal NAYS—1 ernments, and private and non-profit entities, Burgess Duncan (TN) Jeffries Massie should take all necessary steps to facilitate the Bustos Dunn Jenkins (KS) timely submission of a request to rejoin the BIE. NOT VOTING—10 Byrne Ellison Jenkins (WV) SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION. Calvert Emmer Johnson (GA) Aderholt Frankel (FL) Tenney Capuano Engel Johnson (LA) (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of State is au- Bishop (MI) Higgins (NY) Torres thorized to take such actions as the Secretary Carbajal Eshoo Johnson (OH) Butterfield Newhouse Ca´ rdenas Espaillat Johnson, E. B. Castor (FL) Raskin determines necessary for the United States to re- Carson (IN) Estes (KS) Johnson, Sam join and maintain membership in the BIE. Carter (GA) Esty (CT) Jones (b) AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT PRIVATE CON- Carter (TX) Evans Jordan b 1429 TRIBUTIONS.—In addition to funds otherwise Cartwright Farenthold Joyce (OH) So (two-thirds being in the affirma- available to the Secretary to carry out this sec- Castro (TX) Faso Kaptur tion, the Secretary is authorized to accept con- Chabot Ferguson Katko tive) the rules were suspended and the tributions for such purpose. Chaffetz Fitzpatrick Keating bill, as amended, was passed. Cheney Fleischmann Kelly (IL) (c) NOTIFICATION.—The Secretary of State Chu, Judy Flores Kelly (MS) The result of the vote was announced shall notify the Committees on Foreign Affairs Cicilline Fortenberry Kelly (PA) as above recorded. and Appropriations of the House of Representa- Clark (MA) Foster Kennedy A motion to reconsider was laid on tives and the Committees on Foreign Relations Clarke (NY) Foxx Khanna the table. and Appropriations of the Senate upon taking Clay Franks (AZ) Kihuen any action under subsection (a). Cleaver Frelinghuysen Kildee Stated for: Clyburn Fudge Kilmer Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on SEC. 5. CONTINUATION OF PROHIBITION ON USE OF FEDERAL FUNDS FOR WORLD’S Coffman Gabbard Kind rollcall vote 257, I was not present because I Cohen Gaetz King (IA) FAIR PAVILIONS AND EXHIBITS. Cole Gallagher King (NY) was unavoidably detained. Had I been (a) CONTINUATION OF PROHIBITION.—Nothing Collins (GA) Gallego Kinzinger present, I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ in this Act may be construed to authorize any

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.101 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4173 obligation or expenditure prohibited by section speak freely on all spheres of life, in- Just a few moments ago, when I 204 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg cluding relevant political candidates heard the other side of the aisle cheer Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, and elections. We need to return free as the bill was passed, it gave me great Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 (22 U.S.C. 2452b) (re- speech back to our spiritual leaders pain. lating to limitations on the obligation or expend- and faith-based organizations without iture of funds by the Department of State for a But I want to say to her and to the United States pavilion or exhibit at an inter- fear of government censorship. American people: I will fight until my national exposition or world’s fair registered by Thank you, Mr. President, for acting death to make sure that we get you the the BIE). to ensure that America’s churches will care that you need. (b) PROHIBITION ON SOLICITATION OF FUNDS.— again be a safe place to discuss all im- Health care is a right, not a privi- Section 204(b)(1)(C) of the Admiral James W. portant matters in life. While today’s lege. Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Au- actions are a strong start, there is f thorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 (22 more work to be done to protect reli- U.S.C. 2452b(b)(1)(C)) is amended by inserting gious freedom in the United States of TRIBUTE TO FATHER GEORGE after ‘‘expositions’’ the following: ‘‘, except that America. CLEMENTS no employees of the Department of State may, in their official capacity, solicit funds to pay ex- f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under penses for a United States pavilion or other WE ARE NOT GOING FORWARD IN the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- major exhibit at any international exposition or HEALTH CARE, WE ARE GOING uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Illi- world’s fair registered by the Bureau of Inter- BACKWARDS nois (Mr. RUSH) is recognized for 60 national Expositions’’. minutes as the designee of the minor- Mr. EMMER (during the reading). (Mr. COHEN asked and was given per- ity leader. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent mission to address the House for 1 Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to dispense with the reading of the minute and to revise and extend his re- to pay tribute to a true hero in my amendment. marks.) heart and the hearts of so many in my Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, in 2010, I The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there hometown of Chicago, Illinois: Father was here and voted for the Affordable objection to the request of the gen- George H. Clements. Care Act. It passed. It was one of the tleman from Minnesota? Father Clements, yesterday, cele- most proudest moments I have had in There was no objection. brated the 60th anniversary of his ordi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Congress. My father was a doctor who provided nation into the Roman Catholic objection to the original request of the health care. I know what health care is Church. His path towards divinity gentleman from Minnesota? like. I suffered from polio at age 5, and began early in life when he became the There was no objection. have been a constant recipient of first Black graduate of Chicago’s A motion to reconsider was laid on Quigley Academy Seminary in 1945. the table. health care. Every American should have had that right. From there, he went on to pursue his f What happened today was cruel, education and earned a bachelor of arts ADJOURNMENT FROM THURSDAY, mean, and heartless. It gave $1 billion degree in sacred theology and a master MAY 4, 2017, TO MONDAY, MAY 8, in tax breaks to the richest people in of arts degree in philosophy from St. 2017 this country. It took health care from Mary of the Lake Seminary. Mr. Speaker, after ordination, Father Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I ask 24 million people. It made the insur- ance policies that will be available to Clements continued his role as a trail- unanimous consent that when the people less fulsome if they can waive blazer when, in June of 1969, he became House adjourns today, it adjourn to essential benefits, and that includes the first Black priest of Holy Angels meet at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 8, 2017. parts of insurance that were essential Catholic Church, which we in the First The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there under the Affordable Care Act. District of Illinois are proud to claim. objection to the request of the gen- The policies will be nearly worthless. Mr. Speaker, from that position, Fa- tleman from Minnesota? They will have high deductibles, and ther Clements has had a tremendous There was no objection. they will cost people more and more impact on lives all across the city of f because the credits are not as much as Chicago and all across our great Na- JOHNSON AMENDMENT REPEAL the subsidies. tion. One such incident of tremendous The poor were hurt, the middle class (Mr. BANKS of Indiana asked and significance to me personally are his were hurt, and seniors were hurt. It is was given permission to address the actions that he undertook in the after- a sad day when that was cheered, and a House for 1 minute.) math of the assassination of my dear day that will go down as one of the Mr. BANKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, friend and deputy chairman of the Illi- worst days in the history of this House. in light of this morning’s long overdue nois Chapter of the Black Panther We are not going forward and providing executive order on religious freedom Party, Fred Hampton. people with the care they need in and free speech, I rise today to thank On December 4, 1969, Fred Hampton health care; we are going backwards. I was assassinated. December 4, 1969, is a my colleagues in Congress on their sup- rue this day. port for a thorough reform of the John- dark day in the history of the civil son amendment, which has hindered f rights movement and in the struggle the ability of faith-based nonprofits HEALTH CARE IS A RIGHT, NOT A for social justice here in our great Na- and churches from engaging in free PRIVILEGE tion. Mr. Speaker, that is the day that speech and exercising freedom of reli- (Mr. CUMMINGS asked and was Fred Hampton, as I said before, was as- gion. given permission to address the House sassinated by members of the Cook Since 1954, the Johnson amendment for 1 minute.) County State’s Attorney’s Office, who has given the IRS the broad authority Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, 2 worked in conjunction with the Chi- to censor the free speech of pastors, weeks ago at a townhall in Baltimore, cago Police Department and the Fed- churches, and other tax-exempt organi- a young lady came forward. She was 28 eral Bureau of Investigation. zations across America. years old. She said: I have stage IV Mr. Speaker, it is only by the grace The IRS’ vague interpretation of pro- cancer. I got married just a few years of God that I escaped that same fate. hibited forms of speech under this law ago. My husband and I were consid- Knowing that I was being pursued as a has led to uncertainty about what ering having a baby, but now I have target of the FBI, the Cook County speech constitutes a formal violation. discovered that that won’t happen. The State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Chi- Furthermore, when the Johnson Affordable Care Act saved my life. cago Police Department, this same ex- amendment was originally adopted, it The last thing she said—and she traordinary priest, Father George was passed without debate, committee begged—was: You have got to act now Clements, offered me protection under hearings, or any other procedure we because, if you don’t, I will be dead. the very old ecclesiastical right of use in Congress today. Mr. Speaker, the last thing I said to sanctuary that has been honored We need to allow America’s churches, her was that I will give it everything I throughout many centuries here and pastors, and other faith leaders to have got. all across the world in a church not

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY7.080 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4174 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 4, 2017 only in America, but in Europe, Asia, Clements, no better words than those Both of us worked for the Chicago and Africa. that are taken from the Bible, from Public Schools system at that time. We Mr. Speaker, if not for the heroic ac- Holy Scriptures. Let me close, Mr. were working in District 10, where Mr. tions of Father Clements on that day, Speaker, with these very words taken Joseph Rosen was superintendent of I would not be standing here in the from the Book of Proverbs at 22:9. The schools and Ms. Ida Mae ‘‘Ma’’ Fletch- well of the House on this very day. Bible says: ‘‘He who has a generous eye er, as we called her, was the leading Father Clements just didn’t stop on will be blessed, for he gives of his bread school activist. that infamous day of December 4, 1969. to the poor.’’ This is the manner, the As time went on, I left the teaching Throughout the years, countless others mind of the man, Father George C. profession but continued to run into have also benefited from Father George Clements. Ms. Life at meetings and church activi- Clements’ boundless love for humanity. Mr. Speaker, I honor, I love, I am ties. When it came to teaching, there In 1980, he started the Catholic grateful for, and I am indebted to the were none better. church’s first One Church One Child remarkable love and work, commit- As she became the assistant principal program, an effort to increase the ment and dedication of my friend Fa- at the Roswell B. Mason Elementary adoption race of African-American or- ther George C. Clements. School, she was creative, encouraging, phans. He took this noble, gigantic Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman and imaginative. When you walked step so to heart that, in 1981 he himself from Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS), my into Roswell B. Mason Elementary adopted a child; something that had colleague, my comrade, my cohort, my School, you knew that teachers were been unheard of in the history of the coconspirator, my friend from the Sev- teaching and students were learning. Catholic church: a Catholic priest enth District of Illinois. Thirty-eight years is a long time to Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. adopting a child. teach and educate, but Ms. Life spent a Speaker, I know that Congressman lifetime of service to humanity, espe- b 1445 RUSH has extolled the virtues of Father cially through her church, the People’s Clements sufficiently, and I certainly He did not stop there, Father Church of the Harvest Church of God in won’t need 45 or 46 additional minutes Clements. He has taken personal re- Christ, where Michael Eaddy is the pas- to do that; but I can tell you that Fa- sponsibility for and adopted other chil- tor and visionary. Their church has ther George Clements is an exemplary, dren. He has been an excellent father just recently developed a $13 million extraordinary, unordinary man, a to four wonderful children: Joey, Fri- housing project through their commu- priest of the highest order, but a man day, Stewart, and Saint Anthony. nity development association, of which Father Clements’ selfless devotion to who adopted four sons, and he has just been tributed not only here, but cer- Ms. Life was secretary. humanity did not stop there. After re- As she passes away and moves to an- tiring from the Holy Angels Catholic tainly back in our hometown of Chi- cago, Illinois. other level of being, I can almost hear Church in 1994, Father Clements made the Master speaking to her, saying: his way to our Nation’s Capital. He The thing about his four sons that he adopted, being a single priest, that was ‘‘Well done, my good, and faithful serv- came here to Washington, D.C., to es- ant. You have done exceptionally well tablish the One Church-One Addict pro- not the easiest thing in the world to do. But all four of them have become here on Earth. Now I invite you to gram beginning here in our Nation’s come on up to the bosom of Abraham, Capital. outstanding individuals everyplace they have been throughout America. where you can rest in peace and spend Mr. Speaker, as some of us more sea- eternity.’’ soned folks in this Chamber may re- Father Clements not only saved my colleague at a time of great peril, at a Mr. Speaker, I am so delighted to call, this was a time when our Nation’s time of great need, which dem- have had this opportunity to exemplify Capital was known as the ‘‘murder cap- onstrated tremendous courage, but the life of this outstanding woman, Ms. ital’’ of America. This fact did not down through the years, he has contin- Ruth life. deter Father Clements from seeking to ued to provide creative leadership and Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I yield back help those in need, from trying to be a great initiatives, especially as related the balance of my time. solution to a highly recognized prob- to children and the needs that they lem. Father Clements’ unboundless f had—One Church-One Child, One love was in full effect once again. Even Church-One Family, one church help- FURTHER MESSAGE FROM THE after all of his years of selfless, sacrifi- ing individuals who were in need of SENATE cial, hard work, Father Clements still help. had more to give. A further message from the Senate Mr. Speaker, I join with Congress- by Ms. Curtis, one of its clerks, an- In 1999, he established the One man RUSH in paying tribute to this Church-One Inmate program, which nounced that the Senate concur in the outstanding humanitarian, Father House amendment to the Senate was a shared effort to help prison in- George Clements. mates and their families by helping in- amendment to the bill (H.R. 244) ‘‘An TRIBUTE TO MS. RUTH LIFE, EDUCATOR, FRIEND, Act to encourage effective, voluntary mates transition from incarceration to AND COMMUNITY ACTIVIST investments to recruit, employ, and re- a life as productive and ‘‘spiritually Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. tain men and women who have served healed,’’ law-abiding citizens. Speaker, I also come to the floor to in the United States military with an- What a remarkable man Father give tribute to a lady, Ms. Ruth Life, nual Federal awards to employers rec- George C. Clements was, and what a re- an educator, friend, and community ac- ognizing such efforts, and for other markable man he is this very day. tivist. The Nation, Hollywood has recog- I have been fortunate, Mr. Speaker, purposes.’’. nized this glorious man. They made a to have known many outstanding indi- The message also announced that the movie after him, called, ‘‘The Father viduals during my lifetime, but never Senate has agreed to without amend- Clements Story,’’ where the award-win- have I known anyone more out- ment a concurrent resolution of the ning actor Lou Gossett starred as Fa- standing, more passionate, more con- House of the following title: ther Clements. sistent, more reliable, or more giving H. Con. Res. 53. Concurrent resolution pro- In short, Mr. Speaker, Father of herself than Ms. Ruth Life, whom I viding for a correction in the enrollment of Clements has been a beacon of light met in the 1960s. H.R. 244. during the dark days of our Nation. He I met Ms. Life during the time when f has been a community leader, a selfless community activism was at a serious, advocate for the downtrodden, and high level, especially in the city of Chi- LEAVE OF ABSENCE above all, he has been a true and loyal cago, Illinois, where I come from. Ms. By unanimous consent, leave of ab- friend to those who are in need. He is a Life, like many of our generation, was sence was granted to: religious man who walks the walk just involved, actively engaged in efforts to Mr. NEWHOUSE (at the request of Mr. as he talks the talk. make life for people who lived in the MCCARTHY) for May 3 and the balance I can speak no better words for this communities where we lived and of the week on account of a family ill- great American hero, Father George C. worked better. ness.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY7.105 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4175 ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Pipeline Safety, Pipeline and Hazardous Ma- 1268. A letter from the Management and terials Safety Administration, Department Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, of Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- reported and found truly enrolled a bill ment’s final rule — Pipeline Safety: Infla- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- of the House of the following title, tion Adjustment of Maximum Civil Penalties tives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines which was thereupon signed by the [Docket No.: PHMSA-2016-0010] (RIN: 2137- [Docket No.: FAA-2013-1015; Directorate Speaker: AF16) received May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 Identifier 2013-NE-37-AD; Amendment 39- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 18859; AD 2017-08-10] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received H.R. 274. An act to provide for reimburse- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on the May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); ment for the use of modern travel services by Judiciary. Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Federal employees traveling on official Gov- 1261. A letter from the Assistant Chief the Committee on Transportation and Infra- ernment business, and for other purposes. Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, Office of Haz- structure. f ardous Materials Safety, Pipeline and Haz- 1269. A letter from the Management and ardous Materials Safety Administration, De- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ADJOURNMENT partment of Transportation, transmitting Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I move that the Department’s final rule — Hazardous Ma- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- terials: Revision of Maximum and Minimum tives; CFE Company Turbofan Engines the House do now adjourn. Civil Penalties [Docket No.: PHMSA-2016- [Docket No.: FAA-2016-9380; Directorate The motion was agreed to; accord- 0041 (HM-258D)] (RIN: 2137-AF23) received Identifier 2016-NE-21-AD; Amendment 39- ingly (at 2 o’clock and 58 minutes May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); 18857; AD 2017-08-08] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received p.m.), under its previous order, the Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); House adjourned until Monday, May 8, the Committee on the Judiciary. Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to 2017, at 9 a.m. 1262. A letter from the Chief Counsel, Saint the Committee on Transportation and Infra- Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, structure. f Department of Transportation, transmitting 1270. A letter from the Management and the Department’s final rule — Tariff of Tolls Program Analyst, FAA, Department of EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, [Docket No.: SLSDC-2016-0005](RIN: 2135- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ETC. AA41) received May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- communications were taken from the 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on 2016-7269; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-198- Transportation and Infrastructure. AD; Amendment 39-18862; AD 2017-08-13] (RIN: Speaker’s table and referred as follows: 1263. A letter from the Chief Counsel, Saint 2120-AA64) received May 3, 2017, pursuant to 1254. A letter from the Chief Counsel, Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. FEMA, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, transmitting 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on transmitting the Department’s final rule — the Department’s final rule — Seaway Regu- Transportation and Infrastructure. Suspension of Community Eligibility lations and Rules: Periodic Update, Various 1271. A letter from the Management and (Roseau County, MN, et al.) [Docket ID: Categories [Docket No.: SLSDC-2016-0006] Program Analyst, FAA, Department of FEMA-2017-0002; Internal Agency Docket (RIN: 2135-AA42) received May 3, 2017, pursu- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- No.: FEMA-8475] received May 3, 2017, pursu- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee tives; DG Flugzeugbau GmbH [Docket No.: 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. FAA-2017-0051; Directorate Identifier 2016- on Financial Services. 1264. A letter from the Management and CE-043-AD; Amendment 39-18858; AD 2017-08- 1255. A letter from the Chief Justice, Su- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 09] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received May 3, 2017, pur- preme Court of the United States, transmit- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- ting an amendment to the Federal Rules of ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee Civil Procedure that have been adopted by tives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines on Transportation and Infrastructure. the Supreme Court, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. [Docket No.: FAA-2010-0755; Directorate 1272. A letter from the Management and 2074(a); Public Law 100-702, Sec. 401(a); (102 Identifier 2010-NE-12-AD; Amendment 39- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Stat. 4649) (H. Doc. No. 115—33); to the Com- 18860; AD 2017-08-11] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Transportation, transmitting the Depart- mittee on the Judiciary and ordered to be May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- printed. Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to tives; Airbus Helicopters [Docket No.: FAA- 1256. A letter from the Chief Justice, Su- the Committee on Transportation and Infra- 2016-4674; Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-001- preme Court of the United States, transmit- structure. AD; Amendment 39-18835; AD 2017-06-11] (RIN: ting amendments to the Federal Rules of 1265. A letter from the Management and 2120-AA64) received May 3, 2017, pursuant to Evidence that have been adopted by the Su- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. preme Court, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 2074(a); Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Public Law 100-702, Sec. 401(a); (102 Stat. ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Transportation and Infrastructure. 4649) (H. Doc. No. 115—34); to the Committee tives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes [Docket 1273. A letter from the Management and No.: FAA-2017-0252; Directorate Identifier Program Analyst, FAA, Department of on the Judiciary and ordered to be printed. 2016-NM-187-AD; Amendment 39-18863; AD Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1257. A letter from the Chief Justice, Su- 2017-09-01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received May 3, ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- preme Court of the United States, transmit- 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public tives; Learjet Inc., Airplanes [Docket No.: ting an amendment to the Federal Rules of Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the FAA-2016-9505; Directorate Identifier 2016- Appellate Procedure that have been adopted Committee on Transportation and Infra- NM-155-AD; Amendment 39-18856; AD 2017-08- by the Supreme Court, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. structure. 07] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received May 3, 2017, pur- 2074(a); Public Law 100-702, Sec. 401(a); (102 1266. A letter from the Management and suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Stat. 4649) (H. Doc. No. 115—35); to the Com- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee mittee on the Judiciary and ordered to be Transportation, transmitting the Depart- on Transportation and Infrastructure. printed. ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 1274. A letter from the Management and 1258. A letter from the Chief Justice, Su- tives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Program Analyst, FAA, Department of preme Court of the United States, transmit- Helicopters [Docket No.: FAA-2016-6928; Di- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ting amendments to the Federal Rules of rectorate Identifier 2016-SW-018-AD; Amend- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Bankruptcy Procedure that have been adopt- ment 39-18864; AD 2017-09-02] (RIN: 2120-AA64) tives; General Electric Company Turbofan ed by the Supreme Court, pursuant to 28 received May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2016-9167; Direc- U.S.C. 2075; Public Law 88-623, Sec. 1 (as 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 torate Identifier 2016-NE-20-AD; Amendment amended by Public Law 103-394, Sec. 104(f)); Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- 39-18855; AD 2017-08-06] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- (108 Stat. 4110) (H. Doc. No. 115—36); to the tation and Infrastructure. ceived May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Committee on the Judiciary and ordered to 1267. A letter from the Management and 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 be printed. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- 1259. A letter from the Chief Counsel, Saint Transportation, transmitting the Depart- tation and Infrastructure. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 1275. A letter from the Management and Department of Transportation, transmitting tives; GROB Aircraft AG Gliders [Docket Program Analyst, FAA, Department of the Department’s final rule — Civil Pen- No.: FAA-2017-0019; Directorate Identifier Transportation, transmitting the Depart- alties (RIN: 2135-AA40) received May 3, 2017, 2016-CE-038-AD; Amendment 39-18861; AD ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 2017-08-12] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received May 3, tives; General Electric Company Turbofan 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2015-7491; Direc- mittee on the Judiciary. Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the torate Identifier 2015-NE-39-AD; Amendment 1260. A letter from the Assistant Chief Committee on Transportation and Infra- 39-18854; AD 2017-08-05] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, Office of structure. ceived May 3, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.

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801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 LUJA´ N of New Mexico, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, CHABOT, Ms. JUDY CHU of California, Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- Mr. PAYNE, Ms. HANABUSA, Mr. Mrs. RADEWAGEN, Mr. FLEISCHMANN, tation and Infrastructure. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. CUM- Ms. GABBARD, Mr. AL GREEN of 1276. A letter from the Management and MINGS, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. GALLEGO, Mr. Texas, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. ISSA, Mr. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of COHEN, Ms. BARRAGA´ N, Mrs. BEATTY, KINZINGER, Ms. LEE, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Ms. LEE, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Ms. SE- Ms. MENG, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. ROHR- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- WELL of Alabama, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. ABACHER, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mrs. WAG- tives; GROB Aircraft AG Gliders [Docket BISHOP of Georgia, Ms. KELLY of Illi- NER, Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of Cali- No.: FAA-2017-0019; Directorate Identifier nois, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. fornia, and Mr. WILSON of South 2016-CE-038-AD; Amendment 39-18861; AD CARSON of Indiana, Mr. MCGOVERN, Carolina): 2017-08-12] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received May 3, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Mr. SMITH of Wash- H.R. 2358. A bill to award a Congressional 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public ington, Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia, Gold Medal, collectively, to the Chinese Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Mrs. LAWRENCE, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. American Veterans of World War II, in rec- Committee on Transportation and Infra- HASTINGS, Mr. CLAY, Mr. ESPAILLAT, ognition of their dedicated service during structure. Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, World War II; to the Committee on Financial 1277. A letter from the Management and Mr. CORREA, Mr. VELA, Mr. Services, and in addition to the Committee Program Analyst, FAA, Department of GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, on House Administration, for a period to be Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Mr. MCEACHIN, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class D fornia, and Mr. SOTO): each case for consideration of such provi- and Class E Airspace for the following Idaho H.R. 2351. A bill to amend the Public sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the towns; Lewiston, ID; Pocatello, ID; and Twin Health Service Act to authorize grants to committee concerned. Falls, ID [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0216; Air- provide treatment for diabetes in minority By Mr. LOUDERMILK (for himself, Mr. space Docket No.: 17-ANM-7] received May 3, communities; to the Committee on Energy ROYCE of California, Mr. BUDD, Mr. 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public and Commerce. KING of New York, and Mrs. WAG- Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the By Mr. PITTENGER: NER): H.R. 2359. A bill to amend the civil liability Committee on Transportation and Infra- H.R. 2352. A bill to provide for the recogni- requirements under the Fair Credit Report- structure. tion of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, ing Act to include requirements relating to 1278. A letter from the Management and and for other purposes; to the Committee on class actions, and for other purposes; to the Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Natural Resources. By Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania Committee on Financial Services, and in ad- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- dition to the Committee on the Judiciary, ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E (for himself, Mr. BYRNE, Mr. SMUCKER, Mr. FERGUSON, Mr. for a period to be subsequently determined Airspace; Moses Lake, WA; Olympia, WA by the Speaker, in each case for consider- KRISHNAMOORTHI, Ms. CLARK of Mas- [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0217; Airspace Docket ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- sachusetts, Mr. LANGEVIN, and Mr. No.: 17-ANM-8] received May 3, 2017, pursu- risdiction of the committee concerned. ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- NOLAN): H.R. 2353. A bill to reauthorize the Carl D. By Mrs. BEATTY (for herself, Mrs. 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee WAGNER, Mr. MEEKS, Mr. CONYERS, on Transportation and Infrastructure. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act of 2006; to the Committee on Education and Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Mr. EVANS, Mr. f the Workforce. GRIFFITH, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON By Mr. BYRNE (for himself, Mr. HUN- TER, Mr. GROTHMAN, Mr. FRANCIS CARBAJAL, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS ´ ROONEY of Florida, Mr. MITCHELL, CARDENAS, Mr. RICHMOND, Mrs. DIN- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. DIAZ-BALART, GELL, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. committees were delivered to the Clerk Mr. DEUTCH, and Ms. FRANKEL of HASTINGS, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- for printing and reference to the proper Florida): vania, Ms. MOORE, Mr. SWALWELL of California, and Mr. CLAY): calendar, as follows: H.R. 2354. A bill to amend the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act to H.R. 2360. A bill to provide for systemic re- Ms. FOXX: Committee on Education and provide a definition of recreational vessel for search, treatment, prevention, awareness, the Workforce. H.R. 1808. A bill to amend and purposes of such Act; to the Committee on and dissemination of information with re- improve the Missing Children’s Assistance Education and the Workforce. spect to sports-related and other concus- Act, and for other purposes; with an amend- sions; to the Committee on Energy and Com- By Mr. LATTA (for himself, Mr. JOYCE ment (Rept. 115–110). Referred to the Com- merce. of Ohio, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mrs. mittee of the Whole House on the state of By Mrs. BLACKBURN (for herself and BUSTOS, Mr. SMUCKER, and Ms. the Union. Mr. SCHRADER): FUDGE): H.R. 2361. A bill to promote energy savings Ms. FOXX: Committee on Education and H.R. 2355. A bill to provide for integrated in residential and commercial buildings and the Workforce. H.R. 1809. A bill to reauthor- plan permits, to establish an Office of the industry, and for other purposes; to the Com- ize and improve the Juvenile Justice and De- Municipal Ombudsman, to promote green in- mittee on Energy and Commerce. linquency Prevention Act of 1974, and for frastructure, and to require the revision of By Ms. BONAMICI (for herself, Mrs. other purposes; with an amendment (Rept. financial capability guidance; to the Com- RADEWAGEN, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. 115–111). Referred to the Committee of the mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- Whole House on the state of the Union. RYAN of Ohio, and Ms. MOORE): ture, and in addition to the Committee on H.R. 2362. A bill to assure equity in con- f Energy and Commerce, for a period to be tracting between the Federal Government subsequently determined by the Speaker, in PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS and small business concerns, and for other each case for consideration of such provi- purposes; to the Committee on Small Busi- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the ness. bills and resolutions of the following committee concerned. By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: titles were introduced and severally re- By Mr. MCNERNEY (for himself, Ms. H.R. 2363. A bill to amend the Robert T. DEGETTE, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. RUSH, Mr. ferred, as follows: Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- KHANNA, and Mr. TAKANO): sistance Act to reauthorize the predisaster By Mr. BACON: H.R. 2356. A bill to protect broadband users hazard mitigation program; to the Com- H.R. 2350. A bill to amend the Small Busi- from unfair or deceptive practices relating mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- ness Act to foster greater transparency in to privacy or data security, and for other ture. and establish standards relating to the ad- purposes; to the Committee on Energy and By Ms. JUDY CHU of California (for ministration of construction contracts, to Commerce. herself, Ms. MENG, and Mr. KNIGHT): provide prospective construction contractors By Mr. DEFAZIO: H.R. 2364. A bill to amend the Small Busi- with information about an agency’s policies H.R. 2357. A bill to provide for the estab- ness Investment Act of 1958 to increase the on the administration of change orders to lishment of the United States Employee amount that certain banks and savings asso- allow such contractors to make informed Ownership Bank, and for other purposes; to ciations may invest in small business invest- business decisions regarding the pricing of the Committee on Financial Services, and in ment companies, subject to the approval of bids or proposals, and for other purposes; to addition to the Committee on Education and the appropriate Federal banking agency, and the Committee on Small Business. the Workforce, for a period to be subse- for other purposes; to the Committee on By Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California quently determined by the Speaker, in each Small Business. (for herself, Ms. CLARKE of New York, case for consideration of such provisions as By Mr. COOK: Mr. CONYERS, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee H.R. 2365. A bill to convey certain Federal SERRANO, Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. TAKANO, concerned. land in California to Apple Valley, Cali- Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. EVANS, Mr. By Mr. ROYCE of California (for him- fornia, Twentynine Palms, California, Bar- LAWSON of Florida, Ms. WILSON of self, Mr. TED LIEU of California, Mr. stow, California, and Victorville, California; Florida, Ms. NORTON, Mr. BEN RAY ABRAHAM, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. to the Committee on Natural Resources.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:02 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L04MY7.000 H04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4177 By Mr. DELANEY (for himself, Mr. H.R. 2374. A bill to facilitate certain Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to eliminate cer- KATKO, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. pinyon-juniper related projects in Lincoln tain Federal nutrition requirements, and for LOWENTHAL, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, County, Nevada, to modify the boundaries of other purposes; to the Committee on Edu- Mr. VEASEY, Mr. TONKO, Mrs. DIN- certain wilderness areas in the State of Ne- cation and the Workforce. GELL, Ms. SINEMA, and Ms. LOFGREN): vada, and to fully implement the White Pine By Mrs. NOEM (for herself, Mr. H.R. 2366. A bill to amend title 11 of the County Conservation, Recreation, and Devel- LOEBSACK, and Mr. PASCRELL): United States Code to make student loans opment Act; to the Committee on Natural H.R. 2383. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- dischargeable; to the Committee on the Ju- Resources. enue Code of 1986 to reform and extend the diciary. By Mr. KNIGHT (for himself, Ms. HER- incentives for biodiesel; to the Committee on By Mr. DESAULNIER: RERA BEUTLER, Mrs. COMSTOCK, Mrs. Ways and Means. H.R. 2367. A bill to limit the amount of au- BROOKS of Indiana, Mrs. BUSTOS, Mr. By Mr. NOLAN: thorization of appropriations for the Depart- LIPINSKI, and Mrs. TORRES): H.R. 2384. A bill to amend the Employee ment of Defense unless the Secretary of De- H.R. 2375. A bill to amend title 49, United Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and fense implements cost-saving recommenda- States Code, to provide for private lactation the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to modify tions contained in a certain study by the De- areas in the terminals of large and medium certain provisions relating to multiemployer fense Business Board, and for other purposes; hub airports, and for other purposes; to the pensions, and for other purposes; to the Com- to the Committee on Armed Services. Committee on Transportation and Infra- mittee on Education and the Workforce, and By Mr. FITZPATRICK (for himself, Ms. structure. in addition to the Committees on Ways and SINEMA, and Mr. BIGGS): By Mr. LANCE (for himself, Mrs. DIN- Means, and the Judiciary, for a period to be H.R. 2368. A bill to authorize the use of ex- GELL, Mr. BURGESS, and Mr. GENE subsequently determined by the Speaker, in perimental drugs, biological products, and GREEN of Texas): each case for consideration of such provi- devices by patients diagnosed with a ter- H.R. 2376. A bill to amend the Federal sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the minal illness in accordance with State law, Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to protect and committee concerned. and for other purposes; to the Committee on strengthen the drug supply chain in the By Mr. PAULSEN: Energy and Commerce, and in addition to United States by closing several statutory H.R. 2385. A bill to address tariff inversions the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period gaps in the penalty provisions of such Act that create an incentive for United States to be subsequently determined by the Speak- that apply to drug diversion and counter- companies to move production out of the er, in each case for consideration of such pro- feiting; to the Committee on Energy and United States, to eliminate the tariff inver- visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Commerce. sion on certain television components, and committee concerned. By Mr. LIPINSKI: for other purposes; to the Committee on By Ms. FRANKEL of Florida (for her- H.R. 2377. A bill to amend the Workforce Ways and Means. self, Mr. YOHO, Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY Innovation and Opportunity Act to include By Mr. PAULSEN (for himself, Mr. of Florida, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. DIAZ- individuals participating in pre-apprentice- DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. BALART, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. ship programs offered by employers and pro- TIBERI, Mr. HOLDING, and Mr. NOLAN): DESANTIS, Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of vide that such employers may be reimbursed H.R. 2386. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Florida, and Mr. MAST): under such Act; to the Committee on Edu- enue Code of 1986 to modify the tax rate for H.R. 2369. A bill to amend the Tariff Act of cation and the Workforce. excise tax on investment income of private 1930 to provide for a deferral of the payment By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- foundations; to the Committee on Ways and of a duty upon the sale of certain used ico (for himself, Mrs. DINGELL, Ms. Means, and in addition to the Committee on yachts, and for other purposes; to the Com- MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New the Budget, for a period to be subsequently mittee on Ways and Means. Mexico, Ms. JAYAPAL, and Ms. NOR- determined by the Speaker, in each case for By Mr. GAETZ: TON): H.R. 2370. A bill to authorize Escambia H.R. 2378. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- consideration of such provisions as fall with- County, Florida, to convey certain property enue Code of 1986 to reform the American op- in the jurisdiction of the committee con- that was formerly part of Santa Rosa Island portunity tax credit to support college sav- cerned. National Monument and that was conveyed ings; to the Committee on Ways and Means, By Mr. POLIS (for himself, Mr. POCAN, to Escambia County subject to restrictions and in addition to the Committee on Edu- and Mr. DELANEY): on use and reconveyance; to the Committee cation and the Workforce, for a period to be H.R. 2387. A bill to establish an Employee on Natural Resources. subsequently determined by the Speaker, in Ownership and Participation Initiative, and By Mr. GOSAR (for himself, Ms. each case for consideration of such provi- for other purposes; to the Committee on SINEMA, Mr. BIGGS, Mr. FRANKS of Ar- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Education and the Workforce. izona, Mr. HUFFMAN, Mr. LAMALFA, committee concerned. By Mr. QUIGLEY (for himself, Ms. Ms. MCSALLY, Mrs. NOEM, Mr. By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of KAPTUR, and Mr. LIPINSKI): O’HALLERAN, Mr. SCHWEIKERT, and New York: H.R. 2388. A bill to provide that Poland Mr. MCCLINTOCK): H.R. 2379. A bill to amend the Public may be designated as a program country H.R. 2371. A bill to require the Adminis- Health Service Act to establish a program of under the Visa Waiver Program, and for trator of the Western Area Power Adminis- research regarding the risks posed by the other purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- tration to establish a pilot project to provide presence of dioxin, synthetic fibers, chemical diciary. increased transparency for customers, and fragrances, and other components of femi- By Mr. REED (for himself, Mr. NADLER, for other purposes; to the Committee on Nat- nine hygiene products; to the Committee on Mr. HIGGINS of New York, and Ms. ural Resources. Energy and Commerce. SLAUGHTER): By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas (for By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 2389. A bill to reauthorize the West himself, Mr. ROE of Tennessee, Mr. New York (for herself, Mr. Valley demonstration project, and for other KNIGHT, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. DESAULNIER, Ms. TSONGAS, Mr. purposes; to the Committee on Energy and SCHWEIKERT, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mrs. MEEKS, Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, Commerce. NOEM, Mr. PAULSEN, Mr. MARCHANT, and Mr. GRIJALVA): By Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN (for herself, Mr. BISHOP of Michigan, and Ms. JEN- H.R. 2380. A bill to provide for the develop- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, and KINS of Kansas): ment and use of technology for personalized Mr. MEADOWS): H.R. 2372. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- handguns, to require that all handguns man- H.R. 2390. A bill to strengthen prohibitions enue Code of 1986 to clarify the rules relating ufactured or sold in, or imported into, the regarding the Palestine Liberation Organiza- to veteran health insurance and eligibility United States incorporate such technology, tion, and for other purposes; to the Com- for the premium tax credit; to the Com- and for other purposes; to the Committee on mittee on Foreign Affairs. mittee on Ways and Means. the Judiciary, and in addition to the Com- By Mr. SANFORD (for himself, Mr. By Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania (for mittee on Energy and Commerce, for a pe- MEADOWS, and Mr. RICE of South himself and Mr. BUCHANAN): riod to be subsequently determined by the Carolina): H.R. 2373. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Speaker, in each case for consideration of H.R. 2391. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Social Security Act with respect to the ac- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- enue Code of 1986 to phaseout the Mass Tran- creditation of osteopathic residency training tion of the committee concerned. sit Account; to the Committee on Ways and programs for purposes of graduate medical By Mr. MOOLENAAR (for himself, Ms. Means. education payments under the Medicare pro- SINEMA, Mr. BISHOP of Michigan, and By Ms. SCHAKOWSKY: gram; to the Committee on Ways and Means, Mr. HUIZENGA): H.R. 2392. A bill to amend the Public and in addition to the Committee on Energy H.R. 2381. A bill to amend title 49, United Health Service Act to establish direct care and Commerce, for a period to be subse- States Code, to prescribe safety standards registered nurse-to-patient staffing ratio re- quently determined by the Speaker, in each for autocycles and related equipment, and quirements in hospitals, and for other pur- case for consideration of such provisions as for other purposes; to the Committee on En- poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- fall within the jurisdiction of the committee ergy and Commerce. merce, and in addition to the Committee on concerned. By Mrs. NOEM: Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- By Mr. KIHUEN (for himself, Mr. H.R. 2382. A bill to amend the Richard B. quently determined by the Speaker, in each AMODEI, Ms. ROSEN, and Ms. TITUS): Russell National School Lunch Act and the case for consideration of such provisions as

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A bill to create a grant program Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. LUETKE- Under clause 3 of rule XII, for governmental and other nonprofit organi- MEYER, Mrs. HARTZLER, Mr. Mr. LOWENTHAL introduced a bill zations that support startup businesses in CICILLINE, Mr. MCNERNEY, Ms. FUDGE, (H.R. 2398) for the relief of Gurmukh formation and early growth stages by pro- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, Mr. SERRANO, Singh; which was referred to the viding entrepreneurs with resources and Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Ms. DELAURO, Committee on the Judiciary. services to produce viable businesses, and for Ms. JUDY CHU of California, Ms. f other purposes; to the Committee on Small TITUS, Ms. PLASKETT, Mr. HECK, Mr. Business. MCGOVERN, Mr. BANKS of Indiana, CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY By Mr. STIVERS (for himself, Ms. Mr. LEVIN, Mr. SUOZZI, Mr. PALLONE, STATEMENT SPEIER, and Mr. REED): Mr. RASKIN, Mr. KIND, Mr. CURBELO Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of H.R. 2394. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- of Florida, Mr. STIVERS, Mr. HAS- the Rules of the House of Representa- enue Code of 1986 to include fuel cells using TINGS, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. HIGGINS of electromechanical processes for purposes of New York, Mr. DENHAM, Mr. BEYER, tives, the following statements are sub- the energy tax credit; to the Committee on Mr. LAWSON of Florida, Ms. MATSUI, mitted regarding the specific powers Ways and Means. Ms. SPEIER, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Mr. granted to Congress in the Constitu- By Mrs. TORRES (for herself, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- ´ tion to enact the accompanying bill or GUTIERREZ, and Ms. JAYAPAL): fornia, Mr. MESSER, Mrs. MCMORRIS H.R. 2395. A bill to direct the Federal joint resolution. RODGERS, Ms. CLARK of Massachu- Trade Commission to issue regulations to By Mr. BACON: setts, Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. POLIS, Mr. prohibit any bail bond agent or person who H.R. 2350. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. underwrites or insures the provision of a bail Congress has the power to enact this legis- DEFAZIO, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. bond who require a bonded individual to lation pursuant to the following: MEEKS, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, wear an ankle monitor or other homing de- Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article 1 Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. vice as a condition on issuing such a bond By Ms. MAXINE WATERS of Cali- REED, Mr. DEUTCH, Ms. SLAUGHTER, from charging any fee associated with such fornia: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. monitor or device that exceeds the cost to H.R. 2351. SCHIFF, and Mrs. LOWEY): the bail bond agent or person who under- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H. Res. 314. A resolution recognizing Na- writes or insures the provision of a bail bond lation pursuant to the following: tional Foster Care Month as an opportunity of maintaining and operating such monitor Article 1, Section 8, clause 1 of the U.S. to raise awareness about the challenges of or device; to the Committee on Energy and Constitution and children in the foster care system, and en- Commerce. Article 1, Section 8, clause 3 of the U.S. couraging Congress to implement policy to By Mr. TROTT (for himself and Mr. Constitution. improve the lives of children in the foster CLAY): By Mr. PITTENGER: H.R. 2396. A bill to amend the Gramm- care system; to the Committee on Ways and H.R. 2352. Leach-Bliley Act to update the exception for Means. Congress has the power to enact this legis- certain annual notices provided by financial By Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of lation pursuant to the following: institutions; to the Committee on Financial Texas (for herself, Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. Article 1 Section 8 Clause 3 states: ‘‘To Services. JOYCE of Ohio, Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, By Mr. YOHO (for himself, Mr. ROYCE CLAY, Mrs. COMSTOCK, Ms. SEWELL of and among the several States, and with the of California, Mr. ENGEL, and Mr. Alabama, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. Indian Tribes. . . To make all Laws which SHERMAN): GABBARD, Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illi- shall be necessary and proper for carrying H.R. 2397. A bill to amend the North Ko- nois, and Ms. LOFGREN): into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all rean Human Rights Act of 2004 to authorize H. Res. 315. A resolution expressing support other Powers vested by this Constitution in further actions to promote freedom of infor- for the designation of the week of May 6 the Government of the United States, or in mation and democracy in North Korea, and through May 12, 2017, as National Nurses any Department or Officer thereof.’’ for other purposes; to the Committee on For- Week; to the Committee on Energy and Com- By Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania: eign Affairs. merce. H.R. 2353. By Ms. BASS (for herself, Mr. LAN- By Mr. ROHRABACHER (for himself Congress has the power to enact this legis- GEVIN, Mrs. BLACK, Mrs. LAWRENCE, and Mr. MEEKS): lation pursuant to the following: Mr. MARINO, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, H. Res. 316. A resolution celebrating the Article I, section 8 of the Constitution of Mr. CLAY, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. POCAN, Ms. success of the Marshall Plan in fostering the United States CLARKE of New York, Mr. SEAN PAT- peace and prosperity in the seven decades By Mr. BYRNE: RICK MALONEY of New York, Ms. LEE, since its conception and affirming the con- H.R. 2354. Mr. RUSH, Ms. NORTON, Mr. DANNY K. tinued relevance of the Marshall Plan for the Congress has the power to enact this legis- DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. SMITH of Wash- United States and its global allies and the lation pursuant to the following: ington, Mr. COHEN, Mr. RICHMOND, values for which it stood; to the Committee Article I, section 8 of the Constitution of Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. on Foreign Affairs. the United States MULLIN, Mr. TED LIEU of California, By Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN (for herself, By Mr. LATTA: Ms. FRANKEL of Florida, Mr. CON- Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. POE of Texas, and H.R. 2355. YERS, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. TONKO, Mr. Mr. DEUTCH): Congress has the power to enact this legis- TIPTON, Mrs. DINGELL, Mr. KILDEE, H. Res. 317. A resolution calling for the un- lation pursuant to the following: Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. EVANS, Mr. YAR- conditional release of United States citizens Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 MUTH, Mrs. BEATTY, Mr. JOHNSON of and legal permanent resident aliens being The Congress shall have Power to regulate Georgia, Ms. DELBENE, Mrs. WATSON held for political purposes by the Govern- Commerce with foreign Nations, and among COLEMAN, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- ment of Iran; to the Committee on Foreign the several States, and with the Indian fornia, Mr. CORREA, Mr. CROWLEY, Affairs. Tribes Mrs. TORRES, Mrs. DEMINGS, Mr. f By Mr. MCNERNEY: DESAULNIER, Mr. THOMPSON of Penn- H.R. 2356. sylvania, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. MITCH- MEMORIALS Congress has the power to enact this legis- ELL, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of lation pursuant to the following: New Mexico, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. THOMP- Under clause 3 of rule XII, Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of SON of California, Mr. CLYBURN, Mr. 34. The SPEAKER presented a memorial of hte United States grants Congress the au- MCEACHIN, Mr. EMMER, Ms. JAYAPAL, the Senate of the State of California, rel- thority to enact this bill. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. TAYLOR, ative to Senate Resolution No. 29, stating By Mr. DEFAZIO: Ms. HANABUSA, Ms. BONAMICI, Mrs. the Senate of the state of California hereby H.R. 2357. BUSTOS, Ms. GRANGER, Mr. BLUM, Ms. designates the year of 2017 as ‘‘State of Cali- Congress has the power to enact this legis- WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. TIBERI, Mr. fornia Year of Commemoration of the Anni- lation pursuant to the following: GALLEGO, Mr. CASTRO of Texas, Mr. versary of the Armenian Genocide of 1915- Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 (relating to HILL, Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Ms. 1923’’ and in doing so, intends, through the the power to make all laws necessary and BARRAGA´ N, Mr. BROWN of Maryland, enactment of legislation, that the Armenian proper for carrying out the powers vested in Mr. TAKANO, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. Genocide is properly commemorated and Congress) BACON, Mr. VEASEY, Mr. KILMER, Mr. taught to its citizens and visitors; which was By Mr. ROYCE of California: COOPER, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. ESPAILLAT, referred jointly to the Committees on For- H.R. 2358. Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania, Mr. eign Affairs and Education and the Work- Congress has the power to enact this legis- CRAMER, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. force. lation pursuant to the following:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Aug 22, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\MAY\H04MY7.REC H04MY7 May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4179 Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of tion is not purely a local matter or if it has Congress has the power to enact this legis- the United States. an impact on inter-state commerce, then it lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. LOUDERMILK: falls within the power of Congress. National Article I, Section 8, Clause 1: The Congress H.R. 2359. Federal of Independent Business v. Sebilius, shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Congress has the power to enact this legis- (2012). Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas: Debts and provide for the common Defence Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the Con- H.R. 2372. and general Welfare of the United States; but stitution, which gives Congress the power Congress has the power to enact this legis- all Duties, Imposts, and Excises shall be uni- ‘‘To regulate Commerce with foreign Na- lation pursuant to the following: form throughout the United States tions, and among the several States, and Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 By Mr. NOLAN: with the Indian Tribes;’’ By Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania: H.R. 2384. By Mrs. BEATTY: H.R. 2373. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2360. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1, which pro- lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- vides that the Congress shall have the power Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the U.S. tion to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and Constitution. By Mr. KIHUEN: excises, to pay the debts and provide for the By Mrs. BLACKBURN: H.R. 2374. common defense and general welfare of the H.R. 2361. Congress has the power to enact this legis- United States. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. PAULSEN: lation pursuant to the following: This bill is enacted pursuant to the powers H.R. 2385. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: The Nec- granted to the Congress by Article I, Section Congress has the power to enact this legis- essary and Proper Clause 8, Clause 18 of the United States Constitu- lation pursuant to the following: By Ms. BONAMICI: tion. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United H.R. 2362. By Mr. KNIGHT: States Constitution. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2375. By Mr. PAULSEN: lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2386. Article 1, Section 8 lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. CARSON of Indiana: Article I, Section I lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2363. ‘‘All legislative Powers herin granted shall Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United Congress has the power to enact this legis- be vested in a Congress of the United States, States Constitution. lation pursuant to the following: which shall consist of a Senate and House of By Mr. POLIS: Clause 18 of section 8 of Article I of the Representatives.’’ H.R. 2387. Constitution. By Mr. LANCE: Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Ms. JUDY CHU of California: H.R. 2376. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2364. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article I, Section 8 Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. QUIGLEY: Article I, Section 8, Clause 18, which states lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2388. Article 1, Section 8—‘‘The Congress shall that the Congress has the power to make all Congress has the power to enact this legis- have the power to lay and collect taxes, du- laws which shall be necessary and proper for lation pursuant to the following: ties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts carrying into execution the foregoing pow- The constitutional authority on which this and provide for the common defense and wel- ers, and all other powers vested by this Con- bill rests is the power of Congress to regulate fare of the United States.’’ stitution in the government of the United commerce; as enumerated in Article I, Sec- By Mr. COOK: States or in any department or officer there- tion 8, Clause 3 of the United States Con- H.R. 2365. of. stitution. Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. LIPINSKI: By Mr. REED: lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2377. H.R. 2389. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article 1, Section 8 Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. DELANEY: lation pursuant to the following: Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article I of the H.R. 2366. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 of the United Constitution of the United States grants the Congress has the power to enact this legis- States Constitution, to ‘‘provide for the com- Congress the power to enact this law. lation pursuant to the following: mon Defense and general Welfare of the By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- Article I, Section 8 of the United States United States.’’ ico: Constitution By Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN: H.R. 2378. By Mr. DESAULNIER: H.R. 2390. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2367. Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of Article 1, Section 8. By Mr. SANFORD: New York: By Mr. FITZPATRICK: H.R. 2379. H.R. 2391. H.R. 2368. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8. Clause 3, to regulate Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 Commerce with foreign Nations, and among tion By Ms. FRANKEL of Florida: the several States, and within Indian Tribes. By Ms. SCHAKOWSKY: H.R. 2369. By Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 2392. Congress has the power to enact this legis- New York: Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2380. lation pursuant to the following: Article 1, Section 8, Clauses 1, 3, and 18 of Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article 1, Section 8: ‘‘The Congress shall the United States Constitution, which re- lation pursuant to the following: have Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, spectively grants Congress the power to lay Article I, Section 8 Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and and collect duties and imposts, to regulate By Mr. MOOLENAAR: provide for the common Defence and general commerce with foreign nations, and to make H.R. 2381. Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, all laws which shall be necessary and proper Congress has the power to enact this legis- Imposts and Excises shall be uniform for the execution of those powers. lation pursuant to the following: throughout the United States;’’ By Mr. GAETZ: Under, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 of the By Mr. SCHNEIDER: H.R. 2370. United States Constitution, which gives Con- H.R. 2393. Congress has the power to enact this legis- gress the power ‘‘to regulate commerce with Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: foreign nations, and among the several lation pursuant to the following: Article IV, Section III, Clause II states, and with the Indian tribes.’’ Article I, Section 8 By Mr. GOSAR: By Mrs. NOEM: By Mr. STIVERS: H.R. 2371. H.R. 2382. H.R. 2394. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3. (Commerce Section 8, Article 1 of the United States The Congress shall have the Power to lay Clause) The Commerce Clause give Congress Constitution and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Ex- the power to ‘‘regulate commerce . . . among By Mrs. NOEM: cises, to pay the Debt and provide for the the several States.’’ If the matter in ques- H.R. 2383. common Defense and general Welfare of the

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United States; but all Duties, Imposts and MAXINE WATERS of California, Mr. PANETTA, H.R. 1881: Mr. GRAVES of Georgia. Excises shall be uniform throughout the Mr. MCEACHIN, Ms. MENG, Mrs. WATSON H.R. 1889: Mr. TED LIEU of California, Mr. United States. COLEMAN, and Mr. PASCRELL. LIPINSKI, Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. By Mrs. TORRES: H.R. 544: Mr. CORREA, Mr. VEASEY, and Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Ms. LEE, Ms. JACKSON H.R. 2395. PEARCE. LEE, Ms. BARRAGA´ N,, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 606: Mr. KHANNA and Ms. MAXINE SCHIFF, Ms. JAYAPAL, Mr. KIND, Mr. SIRES, lation pursuant to the following: WATERS of California. Mr. SARBANES, Ms. TSONGAS, Mr. BEYER, Mr. Article 1: Section 8: Clause 18: To make all H.R. 611: Mr. TROTT. KEATING, Mr. CONYERS, Ms. NORTON, Ms. Laws which shall be necessary and proper for H.R. 622: Mr. SMITH of Texas. SPEIER, Mr. KILMER, Mr. LANGEVIN, Ms. carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- H.R. 747: Mr. ROSS. MOORE, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- H.R. 750: Mr. KIND. POCAN, Mr. NADLER, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN stitution in the Government of the United H.R. 777: Mr. ROSS. GRISHAM of New Mexico, Mr. GARAMENDI, Mr. States, or in any Department or Officer H.R. 785: Mr. SMITH of Texas and Mr. POE of PALLONE, Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. thereof. Texas. DEFAZIO, Mr. WELCH, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. By Mr. TROTT: H.R. 790: Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. COFF- DEUTCH, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. H.R. 2396. MAN, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. NOLAN, and Mr. NAD- MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- LER. DELBENE, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. RUSH, Mr. DOG- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 807: Mr. CRAMER, Mr. AMODEI, and Mr. GETT, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. Article I, Section 8 RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. QUIGLEY, Mr. TONKO, Mr. PETERS, Mr. By Mr. YOHO: H.R. 822: Mr. KHANNA. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania, Ms. H.R. 2397. H.R. 828: Mr. CLEAVER. MCCOLLUM, Ms. KAPTUR, Mrs. BUSTOS, Mrs. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 843: Mr. SENSENBRENNER. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York, Mr. YAR- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 846: Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. REICHERT; Ms. MUTH, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. Article 1, Section 8 of the United States SPEIER, Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. PALAZZO, Mr. SWALWELL of California, Mr. MOULTON, Mr. Constitution MITCHELL, Mrs. ROBY, Mr. POLIS, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. By Mr. LOWENTHAL: WOMACK, and Mrs. LOVE. BROWN of Maryland, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- H.R. 2398. H.R. 849: Mr. KING of New York. fornia, Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. CART- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 851: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. WRIGHT, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, lation pursuant to the following: BUTTERFIELD, Ms. CLARKE of New York, Mr. Mr. TAKANO, Mr. POLIS, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. Article I, section 8, clause 4 of the Con- CLAY, Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Mr. LAWSON of WALZ, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, stitution provides that Congress shall have Florida, Mr. VEASEY, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California, Mrs. power to ‘‘establish an uniform Rule of Natu- and Mr. CONYERS. BEATTY, Mr. RICHMOND, Ms. BLUNT ROCH- ralization’’. The Supreme Court has long H.R. 880: Mr. NORCROSS. ESTER, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. found that this provision of the Constitution H.R. 881: Mr. MCGOVERN. CROWLEY, Mr. MCNERNEY, Ms. CASTOR of grants Congress plenary power over immi- H.R. 972: Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Ms. Florida, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. gration policy. As the Court found in Galvan DELAURO, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, and Mr. CLAY, Mr. EVANS, Mr. HIGGINS of New York, v. Press, 347 U.S. 522, 531 (1954), ‘‘that the for- KHANNA. Mr. REICHERT, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. CUMMINGS, mulation of policies [pertaining to the entry H.R. 1057: Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. WALKER, and Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Mr. SMITH of of aliens and their right to remain here] is Mr. ADERHOLT, Washington, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mr. entrusted exclusively to Congress has be- H.R. 1083: Ms. MOORE. DESAULNIER, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Ms. VANS ARBAJAL come about as firmly imbedded in the legis- H.R. 1095: Mr. E , Mr. C , Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. SERRANO, ORTON C OLLUM ICILLINE lative and judicial tissues of our body politic N , Ms. M C , and Mr. C . Mr. CARBAJAL, Mr. AGUILAR, and Mr. SOTO. ´ as any aspect of our government.’’ And, as H.R. 1102: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. BARRAGAN, H.R. 1893: Mr. GIBBS. the Court found in Kleindienst v. Mandel, 408 and Mr. LOEBSACK. H.R. 1895: Mr. PALMER. U.S. 753, 766 (1972) (quoting Boutilier v. INS, H.R. 1164: Mr. BUCHANAN, Mr. TIBERI, Mr. H.R. 1911: Mr. POE of Texas and Mr. 387 U.S. 118, 123 (1967)), ‘‘[t]he Court without HILL, Mr. ROSS, Ms. TENNEY, and Mr. SCHWEIKERT. exception has sustained Congress’ ‘plenary KINZINGER. H.R. 1953: Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia and power to make rules for the admission of H.R. 1179: Mr. TROTT. Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. aliens and to exclude those who possess H.R. 1226: Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. H.R. 1988: Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Mr. those characteristics which Congress has for- MENG, Mr. NADLER, Mr. JEFFRIES, and Mr. LAMALFA, and Mr. SCHIFF. bidden. CICILLINE. H.R. 2044: Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. HIMES, Ms. H.R. 1235: Ms. LOFGREN, Ms. BASS, Mr. f CLARK of Massachusetts, and Ms. JAYAPAL. VELA, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. COSTA, Ms. KAPTUR, H.R. 2061: Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS and Mr. KIHUEN. H.R. 2062: Mr. POE of Texas. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 1240: Mr. NOLAN. H.R. 2091: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. H.R. 1243: Mr. CORREA and Mr. LOWENTHAL. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 2108: Mr. POLIS. H.R. 1267: Mr. VEASEY. H.R. 2119: Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Mr. LEVIN, and tions, as follows: H.R. 1290: Mr. NOLAN. Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. H.R. 19: Mr. DONOVAN, Mr. COLLINS of New H.R. 1354: Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 2133: Mr. FASO, Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of York, Mr. MAST, and Ms. GRANGER. H.R. 1406: Mr. BISHOP of Michigan, Ms. Illinois, Mr. CRAMER, and Mr. CRAWFORD. H.R. 24: Mr. PALAZZO and Mr. BISHOP of ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. H.R. 2147: Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto Michigan. POLIS, Mr. TAKANO, and Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Rico. H.R. 36: Mr. BERGMAN and Mr. HUDSON. H.R. 1414: Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. H.R. 2176: Mr. SWALWELL of California. H.R. 60: Mr. KHANNA, Mr. BRADY of Penn- H.R. 1415: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia and Ms. H.R. 2192: Ms. TENNEY, Mr. RATCLIFFE, and sylvania, Ms. JENKINS of Kansas, Mr. BISHOP NORTON. Mr. GROTHMAN. of Utah, Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 1438: Ms. BONAMICI. H.R. 2215: Mr. HUFFMAN. ESTES of Kansas, Mr. KEATING, Ms. TITUS, H.R. 1478: Mrs. DAVIS of California and Ms. H.R. 2220: Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. LEWIS of Minnesota, Mr. ROSEN. H.R. 2228: Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. GRAVES of Mis- THOMPSON of Pennsylvania, Mr. JODY B. HICE H.R. 1491: Mr. DENHAM, Mr. RUIZ, Mr. souri, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. COOK, and Mr. of Georgia, and Mr. BANKS of Indiana. VARGAS, and Mr. CA´ RDENAS. SWALWELL of California. H.R. 154: Mr. COURTNEY. H.R. 1528: Mr. PETERSON, Mr. PERLMUTTER, H.R. 2272: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 179: Mr. KINZINGER, Mr. EVANS, and and Mr. KIND. New York, and Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. H.R. 1566: Mr. DEUTCH. H.R. 2273: Mr. YARMUTH and Mr. POLIS. H.R. 247: Mr. RATCLIFFE. H.R. 1582: Mr. RYAN of Ohio. H.R. 2286: Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. OLSON, Mr. H.R. 305: Mr. AGUILAR, Ms. ESTY of Con- H.R. 1584: Mr. BLUMENAUER. TAYLOR, and Ms. NORTON. necticut, and Mr. HIGGINS of New York. H.R. 1664: Mr. WELCH, Mr. EVANS, Mr. H.R. 2292: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of H.R. 392: Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. WOMACK, CLAY, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. BRENDAN F. New York. Mr. HULTGREN, Mr. TIPTON, Mr. THOMPSON of BOYLE of Pennsylvania, and Mr. POCAN. H.R. 2295: Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. GRIJALVA, California, Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- H.R. 1677: Mr. CARSON of Indiana and Mr. and Mr. GARAMENDI. sylvania, Mr. MAST, Mr. MCEACHIN, Mr. HASTINGS. H.R. 2309: Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. MESSER, Mrs. MURPHY of Florida, Mrs. H.R. 1697: Mr. CONAWAY, Mrs. CAROLYN B. SWALWELL of California, Miss RICE of New WALORSKI, and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. MALONEY of New York, and Mr. BROWN of York, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. LANGEVIN, Ms. H.R. 490: Mrs. HARTZLER, Mr. ROSKAM, Mr. Maryland. BARRAGA´ N, Mr. KEATING, Mrs. DEMINGS, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mrs. BLACKBURN, Mr. H.R. 1699: Mr. HARPER. PALLONE, Mr. SMITH of Washington, Ms. LAMALFA, Mr. POE of Texas, and Mr. WEBER H.R. 1706: Mr. CAPUANO. BROWNLEY of California, and Mr. PERL- of Texas. H.R. 1707: Mr. CAPUANO. MUTTER. H.R. 502: Mr. ROUZER, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- H.R. 1719: Mr. THOMPSON of California. H.R. 2327: Mr. RATCLIFFE and Mr. CORREA. fornia, Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Ms. H.R. 1863: Mr. CONNOLLY and Mr. MEADOWS. H.J. Res. 1: Mr. BABIN.

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H.J. Res. 29: Mr. MESSER. H. Res. 283: Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. COHEN, Mr. was referred to the Committee on Financial H.J. Res. 51: Mr. KING of New York. COOPER, Mr. GRIJALVA, and Ms. BROWNLEY of Services. H. Con. Res. 44: Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. JOHN- California. SON of Georgia, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, H. Res. 307: Mr. BLUM, Mr. LUETKEMEYER, f and Mr. VARGAS. and Mr. DUNN. H. Con. Res. 47: Mrs. NAPOLITANO and Mr. f BLUMENAUER. DISCHARAGE PETITIONS— H. Res. 30: Mr. DOGGETT. PETITIONS, ETC. ADDITIONS AND WITHDRAWALS H. Res. 31: Mr. DESAULNIER. Under clause 3 of rule XII, H. Res. 128: Mr. MEEKS, Mr. PITTENGER, Mr. The following Members added their POLIS, and Mr. CAPUANO. 43. The SPEAKER presented a petition of names to the following discharge peti- the Borough of Little Ferry, NJ, relative to H. Res. 136: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- tion: sylvania and Mr. PALLONE. Resolution No. 152, strongly supporting pro- H. Res. 239: Mr. GRIJALVA. grams and full funding of the Community Petition 1 by Ms. ESHOO on H.R. 305: Ms. H. Res. 268: Mrs. COMSTOCK. Development Block Grant program; which Slaughter and Mr. McEachin.

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Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2017 No. 77 Senate The Senate met at 9:30 a.m. and was U.S. SENATE, Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, called to order by the Honorable DEAN PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, with instructions, McConnell amendment No. 212, to change the enactment date. HELLER, a Senator from the State of Washington, DC, May 4, 2017. McConnell amendment No. 213 (to (the in- Nevada. To the Senate: Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, structions) amendment No. 212), of a per- of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby fecting nature. f appoint the Honorable DEAN HELLER, a Sen- McConnell amendment No. 214 (to amend- ator from the State of Nevada, to perform ment No. 213), of a perfecting nature. PRAYER the duties of the Chair. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Today’s ORRIN G. HATCH, pore. The Senator from Missouri. prayer will be offered by our guest President pro tempore. RELIGIOUS FREEDOM Chaplain, Father Patrick J. Conroy, Mr. HELLER thereupon assumed the Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, I will the Chaplain of the U.S. House of Rep- Chair as Acting President pro tempore. speak in a few minutes about the busi- resentatives. f ness before the Senate today, but first I wish to speak about what is hap- The guest Chaplain offered the fol- RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME lowing prayer: pening at the White House today. Let us pray. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- President Trump is expected to sign Eternal Lord God, we are astounded pore. Under the previous order, the an Executive order to protect religious by the bountiful flow of Your blessings. leadership time is reserved. freedom. Many times during the last We thank You for the gift of this day f year, the President has talked about that we receive from Your generous his commitment and our commitment CONCLUSION OF MORNING as a nation to religious freedom, but I bounty. BUSINESS Inspire our lawmakers to use these expect that today he will lay down, precious hours and minutes for Your The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- specifically, by Executive order the glory. Help them to understand that pore. Morning business is closed. policy of this administration to protect when they have an awareness of the f and to vigorously promote religious liberty—not to vigorously promote re- brevity of their days on Earth, it will HIRE VETS ACT ligion but to vigorously promote reli- provide them with hearts of wisdom. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- gious liberty. Bless also and strengthen the many pore. Under the previous order, the Reports are that the President will staffers who provide the wind beneath Senate will resume consideration of tell the IRS that we can’t challenge the wings of our leaders. the House message to accompany H.R. churches and what they say, as well as We pray in Your Holy Name. 244, which the clerk will report. challenge their not-for-profit status, simply because of what that pastor or f The legislative clerk read as follows: House message to accompany H.R. 244, a that rabbi or that imam believes in the PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE bill to encourage effective, voluntary invest- place where they deliver their message ments to recruit, employ, and retain men and how they live out their faith. It The Presiding Officer led the Pledge and women who have served in the United also tells Federal agencies to stop forc- of Allegiance, as follows: States military with annual Federal awards ing religious organizations to pay fines I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the to employers recognizing such efforts, and if they don’t want to cover certain United States of America, and to the Repub- for other purposes. healthcare items that conflict with lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Pending: their faith views. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. McConnell motion to concur in the amend- In fact, just this week, Senator ment of the House to the amendment of the STRANGE and I sent a letter to the At- f Senate to the bill. torney General after we saw that in the McConnell motion to concur in the amend- Fifth Circuit the Attorney General’s APPOINTMENT OF ACTING ment of the House to the amendment of the office had said that they want 60 more PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE Senate to the bill, with McConnell amend- days for all of these pending cases on The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ment No. 210 (to the House amendment to this very matter. In the letter that the Senate amendment), to change the en- clerk will please read a communication Senator STRANGE and I sent to our actment date. to the Senate from the President pro McConnell amendment No. 211 (to amend- former colleague, the Attorney Gen- tempore (Mr. HATCH). ment No. 210), of a perfecting nature. eral, we just pointed out to him that The legislative clerk read the fol- McConnell motion to refer the message of the President repeatedly said, as a can- lowing letter: the House on the bill to the Committee on didate for President, that this sort of

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

S2735

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But the Federal Gov- gest of the committees and, in some tential to be either more specific or to ernment, in recent years, decided that, ways, it has the most challenging de- really instruct the Attorney General to in fact, they should force this group to bates as to where we wind up in these look throughout the agencies of gov- do things that violate its faith prin- areas, but I think we have made good ernment and issue guidance, so that in ciples. There is no possible greater choices that hopefully can be improved all of those agencies, as they go about good to be accomplished by that. Hope- on next year, but I am absolutely con- the work that they do, one of the fully, this Executive order makes it fident they are better than last year. things they want to be sure they are clear today that harassment of reli- It is really important for the people doing is promoting religious liberty; so gious groups is going to stop and that we work for to understand that we had that religious organizations that have the Religious Freedom Restoration Act to make choices. There is very little traditionally or are hoping in the fu- principles are still principles in our difference in the money that will be ture to be delivery services for adop- country and, more importantly, that spent this year and the money that was tion, delivery services for addiction, the First Amendment is still a found- spent last year, but there is a dif- delivery services for other problems ing principle in our country. ference in priorities. I think in the that people face, would continue to There is no question in the mind of Labor, Health and Human Services, have the ability to be competing to any American, I think, that the U.S. Education, and Related Agencies Sub- provide those services. Government should do everything in committee, we have either eliminated We know this hasn’t happened over its power to defend and protect reli- or consolidated in a dramatic way 28 the last several months. Religious gious freedom. Whether you are a per- programs so that we could find that groups that have had contracts for a son of faith or a person of no faith at money and use it for what we now be- long time and the availability to pro- all, you should be able to pursue those lieve to be a better purpose. vide those services, even when they beliefs. One of those better purposes would be scored the highest on the scoring of the When Jefferson was asked in the last an increase for the second year in a competitive bids for these contracts, year of his Presidency which freedom is row, and the second year in the last 14 were not given the contracts because most important, he said that the right years, in health research at the Na- they were faith-based. of conscience is the freedom that we tional Institutes of Health. There were Well, if there is any country in the should most vigorously defend—the 12 years with no increase at all, and world that has understood the impor- right to believe what we believe and now, for 2 back-to-back years, we are tance of religious liberty, it has been pursue what we believe. That has been trying to get us back to the research the United States. Religious freedom is further defined over the years by this: buying power we were at 12 years ago. the first freedom in the First Amend- If there are times when that creates a Again, as to the programs that weren’t ment to the Constitution, the first true hazard to others, others have a performing, many of them wound up right in the Bill of Rights, and I don’t right to come in and explain that, and with zero appropriations in both of believe that is by accident. No other the government has a right to see what these last 2 years so that the NIH ap- country in the history of the world can be done about that and still main- propriation could increase. ever committed itself to religious free- tain in every way possible the essence At a time when we are looking at dom as our country did from the very of belief that people have. precision medicine, when we are look- first weeks of the government under So I commend the President for the ing at immunotherapy, when we no the Constitution. No country ever held action that he is reported to be taking longer look at cancer as just cancer this as a principled tenet of what they later today. I continue to be not only and throw everything at it we want to would stand for as a country prior to supportive of the President’s view that throw at it, in fact, we look at the indi- the United States doing that. religious freedom is a critical tenet of vidual cancer, and we are at that mo- We might recall how we come to the who we are, but also I look forward to ment because we understand now what place today where the President has to working with his administration as we didn’t understand a decade ago. We issue an Executive order protecting re- they further put this Executive order can look at the individual cancer and ligious freedom. In 1993, President Clin- into place throughout the agencies of the individual patient and figure out ton signed into law the Religious Free- government. how that patient has a unique poten- dom Restoration Act. That act really Mr. President, I also wish to speak tial to fight that cancer in their body. affirmed that the Federal Government for a few minutes while I am here We looked at things that may not be shouldn’t infringe on individual reli- about the bill before the Senate today. required for people with cancer and gious beliefs unless there was an over- I think the fact that we are moving other diseases, and if we can figure out riding public purpose to do so. If, in forward with an update on how we which people need this procedure and fact, it was found to be necessary to in- spend our money and a prioritization of which people don’t, not only do you not fringe on somebody’s religious beliefs how we spend our money is incredibly pay for the procedure for people who because of that overriding public pur- important. I would have been and don’t need it, but also people don’t go pose—if there was justification that would be, if somehow we failed to do through the physical challenge of pro- there was one—then we should really our job today, very disappointed if we cedures they don’t need. only interfere with it in the least in- think that the priorities of a year ago As to Alzheimer’s, one of the growing trusive way and we should do the min- have to be the exact same priorities concerns in American families today— imum necessary to meet whatever that today. right up there now with cancer as one greater public need might be. Now, many of them will be the same, of the things that people worry about It is unbelievable to me that in re- but many of them will not. So all of most as they look to the future—if we cent years, groups like the Little Sis- these appropriating committees have could reduce the onset of Alzheimer’s ters of the Poor, Christian colleges, or worked together, House and Senate, by an average of 5 years, we would be other groups that are traditionally pro- and have come to a process where we spending almost 50 percent less in 2050 viding services are suddenly finding will have 12 bills—not debated on the than we will be otherwise. In 2050, themselves in court defending who floor as intensively as I would have spending of tax dollars on Alzheimer’s they are and who they hope to be. The liked to have seen them debated—that care will overwhelm the budget, but re- order issued today would finally pro- should be our goal for this year—but 12 search commitments can do something vide that relief in a case like the Little bills where House Members and Senate about that. Sisters of the Poor. I looked a few Members, Republicans and Democrats, The Labor, Health and Human Serv- months ago at their stated purpose and came together and decided what our ices, Education, and Related Agencies it is, for the Little Sisters of the Poor, priorities should be. Subcommittee bill puts us back, for

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A Pell grant is given based Job Corps issues. member of the BIE since 2001. on income and need. If you qualify for I think this bill is far from perfect, (4) State and local governments and private a full Pell—I believe, in the Acting but it is better than the way we are entities in the United States have continued to President pro tempore’s State and, I spending our money today and better participate in international expositions held in know, in my State—there is no com- than we were spending our money a foreign countries as a means of promoting munity college where full Pell doesn’t year and a half ago. Hopefully, it will United States exports and creating jobs, but face pay for all tuition, all books, all fees. If not be quite as good as the way we significantly higher costs for such participation because the United States is not an active mem- you are at the level of need where you spend our money starting October 1. ber. qualify for the full Pell grant, you have So we need to get this work done and (5) State and local governments and private other things you have to worry about get started immediately doing the entities in the United States have expressed in- to sustain yourself, but paying for business of setting priorities, making terest in an international exposition being school is not one of them. As an adult difficult choices, and spending people’s hosted in the United States, but the bid of a going back to school and someone pay- money in a way that has a long-term United States city, region, or State to host an ing for your own school with your own plan to benefit them, their families, international exposition is unlikely to be suc- effort, if you are the first person in and our growing economy. I look for- cessful if the United States is not a member of the BIE. your family to hope to graduate from ward to that vote later today, and then school, anything that disrupts what- to have, I would hope—as I know the SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS. ever pattern you are in minimizes the majority leader hopes—a greater effort It is the sense of Congress that— this year than ever before to get these (1) the United States should rejoin the BIE chances to achieve your goal. So if you immediately to promote domestic job creation, have things working in the fall and the bills on the floor and to have them global branding, and tourism to the United spring and you can also stay in a sum- fully debated. The best possible thing States; and mer term, not only do you get done would be to pass them one at a time (2) the Secretary of State, in partnership with quicker, but you don’t disrupt the pat- and put them on the President’s desk the Secretary of Commerce, State and local gov- tern you found yourself in. one at a time. But the next best thing ernments, and private and non-profit entities, For 8 years now we haven’t had year- is to look at the bills and reach indi- should take all necessary steps to facilitate the round Pell. This vote we will take vidual conclusions about these indi- timely submission of a request to rejoin the BIE. today allows that to happen, and it will vidual bills. That is what the bill be- SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION. make a big difference. It will also fore us today does, and I urge its pas- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of State is au- make a difference when you are in a sage. thorized to take such actions as the Secretary program where you are being prepared I suggest the absence of a quorum. determines necessary for the United States to re- join and maintain membership in the BIE. to do a job that is uniquely available or The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- (b) AUTHORIZATION TO ACCEPT PRIVATE CON- available in your community. It is pore. The clerk will call the roll. TRIBUTIONS.—In addition to funds otherwise pretty hard to explain why we can do The legislative clerk proceeded to available to the Secretary to carry out this sec- this and we have ways to pay for it call the roll. tion, the Secretary is authorized to accept con- through the fall and spring, but by the Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I tributions for such purpose. summer we just have to take a break. ask unanimous consent that the order (c) NOTIFICATION.—The Secretary of State That is not a very easy thing to ex- for the quorum call be rescinded. shall notify the Committees on Foreign Affairs plain to an employer who has come to The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- and Appropriations of the House of Representa- the community because you have that pore. Without objection, it is so or- tives and the Committees on Foreign Relations dered. and Appropriations of the Senate upon taking training potential in your community. any action under subsection (a). The third major allocation of money f SEC. 5. CONTINUATION OF PROHIBITION ON USE that had to come from somewhere else U.S. WANTS TO COMPETE FOR A OF FEDERAL FUNDS FOR WORLD’S is opioid abuse. This bill will increase WORLD EXPO ACT FAIR PAVILIONS AND EXHIBITS. by 430 percent our commitment on this (a) CONTINUATION OF PROHIBITION.—Nothing issue. It is not because we had 650 mil- Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I in this Act may be construed to authorize any lion new dollars to spend on opioid ask unanimous consent that the Sen- obligation or expenditure prohibited by section abuse. It is because in many places in ate proceed to the immediate consider- 204 of the Admiral James W. Nance and Meg our country today and in many States ation of Calendar No. 48, H.R. 534. Donovan Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 (22 U.S.C. 2452b) (re- in our country, more people die from The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- pore. The clerk will report the bill by lating to limitations on the obligation or expend- opioid overdoses than die from car ac- iture of funds by the Department of State for a cidents. It is because many families are title. The legislative clerk read as follows: United States pavilion or exhibit at an inter- destroyed by addiction to prescription national exposition or world’s fair registered by drugs that leads to other drugs when A bill (H.R. 534) to require the Secretary of the BIE). those prescription drugs can’t be avail- State to take such actions as may be nec- (b) PROHIBITION ON SOLICITATION OF FUNDS.— essary for the United States to rejoin the Section 204(b)(1)(C) of the Admiral James W. able and, frankly, the abuse of pre- Bureau of International Expositions, and for scription drugs, in some cases, where Nance and Meg Donovan Foreign Relations Au- other purposes. thorization Act, Fiscal Years 2000 and 2001 (22 they are available. So we are looking There being no objection, the Senate U.S.C. 2452b(b)(1)(C)) is amended by inserting at new ways to deal with pain and proceeded to consider the bill, which after ‘‘expositions’’ the following: ‘‘, except that looking at new ways to deal with this had been reported from the Committee no employees of the Department of State may, in growing problem. on Foreign Relations, with an amend- their official capacity, solicit funds to pay ex- In 2014 and 2015, each year more than penses for a United States pavilion or other ment to strike all after the enacting 1,000 people in Missouri died of drug major exhibit at any international exposition or clause and insert in lieu thereof the overdoses. In my State and most world’s fair registered by the Bureau of Inter- following: States, a fire department that also has national Expositions’’. a first responders unit is three times SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I more likely to respond to a drug over- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘U.S. Wants to further ask unanimous consent that Compete for a World Expo Act’’. dose than the average fire department the committee-reported amendment be SEC. 2. FINDINGS. agreed to; the bill, as amended, be read to a fire. So there is a third area where Congress finds the following: this bill prioritizes what needs to be (1) The Bureau of International Expositions a third time and passed; and the mo- done. (BIE) is the organization responsible for gov- tion to reconsider be considered made In the Individuals with Disabilities erning World Fairs and International Expo- and laid upon the table with no inter- Education Act, title I, charter schools, sitions. vening action or debate.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:55 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.003 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2738 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- have been able to accomplish this bi- Debbie Smith DNA Backlog Reduction pore. Without objection, it is so or- partisan, bicameral negotiation with Act, named for a heroic woman, Debbie dered. the White House, and we will continue Smith, who championed the use of fo- The committee-reported amendment to govern and to demonstrate our sense rensic evidence and the tracing of DNA in the nature of a substitute was of responsibility to the American peo- samples in order to solve sexual assault agreed to. ple for doing just that. cases. The amendment was ordered to be This omnibus package includes a The amazing thing about this great engrossed, and the bill to be read a good blueprint for how we can order technology and DNA testing is that it third time. our priorities and take care of our is enormously powerful. Even as long The bill was read the third time. country. as 20 years later, we have had rape kits The bill (H.R. 534), as amended, was Yesterday I mentioned the increases taken out of evidence lockers at law passed. in resources to better shore up border enforcement agencies and tested and The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- security. This is the largest increase in come up with a hit on the FBI’s data- pore. The majority whip. border security funding in 10 years. base, which is the purpose of the test- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I thank That is a significant accomplishment. ing. It also has the power to exonerate my friend and colleague from Min- This funding will help the Department people who are perhaps falsely accused nesota for working with us on this of Homeland Security hire more Border by excluding them scientifically from piece of legislation. People sometimes Patrol agents and Customs officials to the possibility of being the assailant in say nothing ever gets done around here improve the infrastructure at our ports a given case. on a bipartisan basis, and this proves of entry and checkpoints and hire more It is very important for us to fund that is wrong. While that isn’t one of immigration judges to process more important programs like the Debbie the biggest pieces of legislation to immigration cases. Smith DNA Backlog Reduction Act. I come down the pike, it is important be- It also creates funding for our troops know at one point there was an esti- cause of the importance of the State fighting abroad and for our military in mate that there were 400,000 untested Department’s rejoining the Bureau of general and includes a pay raise for our rape kits in America. The problem was International Expositions in order to men and women in the military, which that we didn’t really know how many preserve the possibility, in my case, for is very important as well, particularly there were because some of them were Houston’s world fair bid to be consid- in an All-Volunteer military and one sitting, as I indicated earlier, in police ered. I know the Senator from Min- that has been stressed by 15 years of evidence lockers, and others were sit- nesota has a similar interest in her continuous conflict around the world. ting in the laboratory and not tested. State. So it was a pleasure to work This bill also takes a more strategic The question arose, when the iden- with her on it, and I am happy we are look at the threats we are facing, in- tity of the assailant was known, what able to see this accomplished today. cluding resources to shore up tech- purpose could be served by testing the f nology and equipment that will help rape kit, which is not inexpensive? our military stay No. 1. After years of What we found is that the assailant, HIRE VETS ACT—Continued putting military improvements and even if identified in the present case, is Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, if I may readiness on the back burner, actually very likely to have been engaged in a speak on the bill before the Senate, cutting defense spending by 20 percent course of conduct or serial assaults, yesterday the House of Representatives during the two terms of President and it helps us solve not only the passed the Omnibus appropriations bill. Obama, this bill is a solid first step to- present case but also other cases as Of course, this is the legislation that ward regaining our readiness and main- well. Some of them are very old. That keeps the Congress and the government taining a capable and modern military. is important so that criminals can be up and running through the end of the While I never will doubt the Amer- brought to justice. fiscal year, the end of September. It ac- ican people responding or our military This bill also funds the National Aer- tually represents the first demonstra- responding to the needs or the threats onautics and Space Administration, tion of Republicans and Democrats in to our security, we don’t want to be NASA. It funds a Federal study for a both Houses of Congress working with roused out of our complacency by a cri- Gulf Coast protection project and ac- the White House in order to pass an im- sis occurring somewhere in the world, tive-shooter training for first respond- portant piece of legislation and keep whether it is North Korea, Syria, ers—all priorities important to my the government up and running Ukraine, Crimea, or elsewhere. We home State of Texas. through the end of the fiscal year. want to be ready on day one. Some of This legislation also represents Over the last few weeks, we have had that readiness has seriously been called changes in Washington since Novem- many productive conversations and de- into question by some of our lack of ber. It is the first major piece of bipar- bates about how best to establish our prioritizing defense spending and mili- tisan legislation negotiated with the priorities, how much we should spend— tary readiness generally. new Trump administration. Instead of particularly my concern about under- In addition to those two important pushing more regulations and rules funding our military and our national topics, many across the country have that cripple our economy and dis- security funding but also to update our been impacted by severe weather, in- regarding the needs of our military and priorities because that is one of the cluding violent storms and tornadoes. the stark realities of the border, this things that happens in an appropria- Of course, Texas has been a part of that legislation begins to steer our country tions bill. When programs are obsolete sad story. Several in Texas have lost in a better direction. or ineffective, there is no way to elimi- their lives due to these storms and the I know that no piece of legislation is nate them while operating under a con- flooding caused by them. Of course we perfect, and perhaps the best definition tinuing resolution. It takes a positive mourn for those who have lost loved of a negotiation is that both sides are piece of legislation like an appropria- ones and those who have been injured, dissatisfied because nobody gets every- tions bill—like this appropriations but we have to do more than just thing they want. I look forward to vot- bill—to eliminate those obsolete or no grieve for them—we have to help them ing for this legislation because I be- longer effective programs. as well. This omnibus bill includes lieve we were elected last November 8 I am hopeful that once we pass this funding for previously approved dis- to govern, not to abdicate those re- bill and after the President signs it, we aster relief, which will help commu- sponsibilities or somehow engage in a will continue to plot a course toward a nities in Texas and throughout the shutdown narrative, which I don’t long-term strategic budget that re- country rebuild and recover following a think serves anyone well, certainly not flects the priorities of the American natural disaster. the American people. I look forward to people. I firmly believe we were elected This legislation also includes money voting on this legislation and encour- to govern, not to shut down the govern- to help reduce the rape kit backlog. age all of our colleagues to do the ment. In my view, that is an abdication This is a topic which most people are same. of our responsibilities. I hope we will not all that familiar with, but years Mr. President, I yield the floor. continue to follow on now after we ago we passed something called the I suggest the absence of a quorum.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:55 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.005 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2739 The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. viduals. Wooden acknowledged this Burke noted that individuals are not STRANGE). The clerk will call the roll. principle in saying, ‘‘Ten field horses simply a compendium of human wants The senior assistant legislative clerk couldn’t pull an empty baby carriage if and individual happiness is not realized proceeded to call the roll. they worked independently of one an- by merely satisfying those wants. Our Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I ask other.’’ He also said, ‘‘If you want to go own happiness is linked to one an- unanimous consent that the order for fast, go alone. But if you want to go other’s happiness. the quorum call be rescinded. far, you need a team.’’ Our purpose, then—our duty—in both The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without These two Hoosiers remind us that our private and public capacities, is to objection, it is so ordered. we are here not to work for ourselves preserve a social order which addresses (The remarks of Mr. FLAKE per- or our parties, but the interest of all the needs of generations past, present, taining to the introduction of S. 1039 Americans for the common good of the and future. This is our duty. are printed in today’s RECORD under American people. In the Marine Corps, I learned some- ‘‘Statements on Introduced Bills and Can we perpetuate our Founders’ thing about duty and practice. Marine Joint Resolutions.’’) brilliant system to safeguard our lib- leaders of every rank teach through Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I yield erties by vesting power in the Amer- the power of their example that every back the remainder of my time. ican people themselves? marine has a duty to serve a cause I suggest the absence of a quorum. Our charge is simple, but it will not greater than themselves. Marines learn The PRESIDING OFFICER. The be easy: for our republican system to to venerate sacrifice for the greater clerk will call the roll. endure, we must breathe life back into good. We are trained to refrain from The assistant bill clerk proceeded to the notion of the ‘‘common good’’ self-indulgent behavior, to check our call the roll. through the relentless application of egos at the door, and to never let ambi- Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I ask common sense. tion interfere with judgment. unanimous consent that the order for Now, I don’t profess that Hoosiers For marines, our comrades’ lives and the quorum call be rescinded. have a monopoly on the common good, our country’s future depends on em- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without but rather than allowing ideological la- bracing uncomfortable facts and then objection, it is so ordered. bels to guide policymaking decisions, improvising, adapting, and overcoming Under the previous order, the Sen- we should instead be guided by what we those facts together. ator from Indiana will be recognized in Indiana call Hoosier common sense. Of course, in the marines, there was for up to 20 minutes. It is the notion that we should be guid- no red State or blue State. Every ma- WORKING FOR THE COMMON GOOD ed by the facts, and that we are open to rine fights for red, white, and blue. Ma- Mr. YOUNG. Today, Mr. President, I change or new ideas, regardless of ide- rines don’t have the luxury of stub- rise to speak from the floor of this ology, when presented with results. bornly clinging to false doctrines or proud Chamber for the first time. My The common good—I happen to know failed practices, and neither do we. message today is, at once, a warning from personal experience that any Every day our men and women who and an invitation. young boy or girl who grows up in Indi- wear the uniform from every branch Dear colleagues, as our Senate in- ana already has a keen sense of the take up arms ‘‘to provide for the com- creasingly grows more partisan, we thing. mon defense’’—come what may. move further and further away from I was raised in a place where neigh- Colleagues, if we are to keep the Re- the practical governance our Founding bor cared for neighbor. This is the com- public, we too must remain open to Fathers espoused, and so today I would mon good in practice. fact-based conversations, to new infor- like to talk about the principle of the I lived among people of character mation, and to new, better approaches. common good in the hopes that this who made others’ concerns their own Now look, I understand that this is body might be reminded that is our concerns. This is the common good. not the United States Marine Corps. unifying purpose for serving. I benefited from the selfless contribu- We have been issued a pen and a micro- Two Hoosiers exemplify the principle tions of Americans who invested their phone, not rifles, but like the marines, of working for the common good that I own time, their own attention, their we should be working to advance a believe our Founding Fathers envi- own resources and talents into helping common mission, common goals. We sioned. their fellow Americans. This is the are the trustees of the common good. Governor Ed Whitcomb was the 43rd common good. Now, please don’t misunderstand me. Governor of Indiana. A hero from I came to know rank-and-file citizens As a marine, I like a good fight as World War II, he twice escaped capture who quietly took the initiative to care much as the next guy, but let’s resolve from the Japanese, making it to safety for the forgotten Hoosiers who needed whenever possible to fight together be- by swimming through shark-infested a hand up. This is the common good. cause I know most assuredly we are waters all night to get to safety. With respect, my colleagues, I note fighting for the same people—and, in Whitcomb pursued the common good in that this outline of the common good most cases, we are fighting for the the midst of a rift in his own Repub- would fully satisfy any ordinary rank- same ends. lican Party. He successfully led Indi- and-file Hoosier, and most ordinary I am fighting for Steve, a self-em- ana in improving our State’s highways, Americans, but sadly, in our modern ployed laborer from Indianapolis. mental health services, and creating politics sometimes our most stubborn Steve’s in his fifties, but he hasn’t seen our State’s Higher Education Commis- partisans resist even the most self-evi- his takehome pay increase in decades. sion. He bucked his own party’s inter- dent truths. Forgive me as I must dem- Colleagues, you are fighting for Steve, ests frequently to do what he thought onstrate that what works in practice too. was right for Hoosiers. Governor also works in theory. I am fighting for Whitney, a high Whitcomb has been described as Indi- I will borrow from 18th century polit- school student from Gary. Whitney ana’s most amazing Governor. He ical theorist and English statesman doesn’t come from money, and she wor- passed away this past year and in trib- Edmund Burke, for he brightly illumi- ries about the future. She is a hard- ute Republicans and Democrats alike nated this notion of a common good. working student who helps her family acknowledged that he served all Hoo- Burke argued that the common good how she can through a part-time job, siers well. could only exist where rule of law ex- but Whitney doesn’t know if she can af- Coach John Wooden was born and ists. Rule of law, properly understood, ford a college education. Colleagues, raised in Indiana, and he learned to requires a shared allegiance by which you are fighting for Whitney, too. coach basketball there before heading people entrust their collective destiny I am fighting for David, an Army hel- to UCLA where he became one of the to others who can speak and decide in icopter mechanic from Evansville who most successful college basketball their name. This, said Burke, is a part- spent nearly 15 years in uniform. David coaches of all time. Wooden understood nership between the living, the unborn, is exhausted by his countless overseas the importance of working together as and the dead. deployments, and he prays that his a team, that working together as a The common good requires individual family will find relief from the stresses team was better than working as indi- cooperation and compromise. and strains of an overstretched force.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:07 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.006 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Colleagues, you are fighting for David, ment of national power. The American I also acknowledge a former Senator too. people won’t tolerate wasteful or inef- who is with us in the Chamber, Richard I am fighting for Carrie, a single fective foreign aid expenditures, but Lugar of Indiana, who also was an ex- mother of three young children from they will continue to support invest- traordinary representative of the peo- Paoli. Carrie is addicted to opioids. Her ments in smart, effective diplomacy. ple of Indiana. aging mother tries to make a bad situ- Let’s work with this administration I congratulate Senator YOUNG. ation better, but she is fearful the fam- to reform the State Department and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ily will not find a way out of the crisis. foreign bodies like the United Nations. ator from Indiana. Colleagues, you are fighting for Carrie, Earlier, colleagues, I spoke of a Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I too. former Republican Governor of Indi- also congratulate my colleague from I am fighting for Sherman, a trucker ana, Ed Whitcomb—but there was an- Indiana. He is a terrific partner. The from Fort Wayne. Sherman is quickly other Whitcomb who was Governor, theme of his speech of working to- approaching retirement. Sherman has James Whitcomb, a Democrat, who gether and building on Hoosier com- put a small nest egg away for retire- also went on to serve in this body be- mon sense couldn’t be more important, ment, but in a few years, he and his fore passing. He also made his mark as couldn’t be more timely, and couldn’t wife will depend on Social Security and Governor, saving the State from insol- have been presented any better. Medicare to make ends meet. Col- vency, establishing institutions for the I am fortunate to work with such a leagues, you are fighting for Sherman, physically and mentally handicapped, good partner for our State and for our too. and advancing the first system of free Nation. Both of us have benefited from I am fighting for Bob, a single father public education. the wisdom, the advice, and the coun- of two boys from South Bend. Bob’s But even more impressive is his dedi- sel of Senator Lugar, who, in our been able to pull together care for him- cation to those Hoosiers who fought State, has set a benchmark for all of us self and his children by piecing to- from Indiana in the Mexican-American to aspire to in terms of decency, intel- War. With Indiana’s budget broke and gether various forms of public assist- ligence, ability, craftsmanship, and our credit in shambles, Whitcomb took ance. Bob wants a better life for him- leadership. out personal loans to purchase arms self and his boys. I hope we are all For a maiden speech, it was an ex- and send these Hoosiers out in service fighting for Bob—I hope we are fighting traordinary effort, a terrific job, and I of our Nation. Two Whitcombs, one Re- for every single American. am proud to be his partner from Indi- publican and one Democrat, who served Let’s resolve to fight for these peo- ana. our State and Nation for the common ple. Let’s renew our vow to fight for I yield the floor. good. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- them more than we fight with one In closing, colleagues, allow me to jority leader. other. acknowledge that folks in your States Let’s come together to grow our Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, the probably feel a lot like those in Indi- Senate will soon vote on the govern- economy by simplifying our Tax Code ana: they are frustrated by our failure, ment funding bill the House passed yes- and reducing the burden of Federal reg- and the Federal Government’s failure terday, and with it, critical resources ulations. I ask you, colleagues, to join to live up to the high expectations to address a number of issues facing me in supporting the REINS Act, Americans have for other pillars of our which I championed in the House of public life—our churches, our State our country. As I have noted over the course of Representatives. Let every proposed governments, and so on. Where good this week, the bill includes a number of major regulation come before this body old Hoosier common sense seems to in- for a vote before it can take effect, form work in those areas, in Wash- provisions that are important to our then let the American people hold us ington, our common sense is too often country, and today I would like to take accountable when those regulations crowded out by stale partisan battles a closer look at the positive impact kill jobs and constrain household in- and unyielding ideological biases. they can make in the lives of the men comes. Colleagues, our charge, our duty, is and women we represent. Let’s come together to help Ameri- to advance the common good by identi- Our country is suffering from a ter- cans acquire the skills to meaningfully fying common goals and then using rible epidemic. Heroin and prescription participate in this 21st century econ- common sense to further advance those opioid abuse is destroying families and omy. If we cooperate, we can develop goals. communities all across our Nation. On new solutions for financing higher edu- In spite of our principled disagree- average, overdoses from these drugs cation that liberate students from ments, let us disagree without ques- claim 91 lives every day—91 lives every avoidable student debt, like income tioning each other’s motives; let us day. Drug addiction can even devastate share agreements. ISAs keep score work through tough problems. Let us the lives of babies before they are born. with outcomes, so people aren’t pun- be principled in our beliefs but prag- States like mine have been hit par- ished if they are unemployed or have matic in advancing those beliefs. Let ticularly hard by this epidemic. I have low incomes. us adapt to new realities. Let us have heard countless stories from Kentuck- Let’s come together to better serve the courage to change our minds. Let ians who have experienced the heart- the poor, the vulnerable, those on the us put results over rhetoric. Let us find break of addiction firsthand. margins of society. My social impact practical solutions to pressing chal- Here is one story that a grandmother partnership bill passed unanimously lenges. Let us, first and foremost, from Independence, KY, shared with out of the House last Congress. never forget that we are custodians of my office: ‘‘[M]y granddaughter is This Congress, the Senate should the common good. growing up without a father due to this come together to allow private inves- My fellow Americans, let us rededi- evil drug,’’ she wrote. ‘‘Our children tors to provide operating capital to cate ourselves to remain one nation, are the future of this country and de- those social service providers with the under God, indivisible, with liberty and serve all the help and support we can proven capacity to achieve measurable justice for all. give them.’’ improvements in chronic social prob- Thank you. Unfortunately, her story is similar to lems like homelessness and long-term RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY LEADER thousands more all across the land. unemployment. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- Grandparents and other family mem- If targeted improvements are jority leader is recognized. bers are increasingly taking care of achieved, government saves money and CONGRATULATING SENATOR YOUNG children when parents fall into addic- repays the project’s initial investors, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I tion. As too many families have experi- plus a modest return on investment. congratulate Senator YOUNG on his enced, addiction can have long-lasting Let’s come together to restore con- first major speech in the Senate. It was and damaging effects on children and fidence in our foreign policy and pro- truly inspirational. Our colleagues who can be financially challenging for the tect our men and women in uniform. are here on the floor have had an op- caregivers. While we rebuild our military, let’s en- portunity to listen to a very important A mom in Florence, KY, contacted sure we are optimizing every instru- speech. my office about her son who is battling

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:07 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.009 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2741 addiction and frequently runs into policies, even though the needs of a it, and I urge colleagues to do the trouble with the law. ‘‘There are so student in Kentucky are different from same. many lives lost and so many more of a student in Maine or California. For I look forward to its passage so we headed in that direction,’’ she said. this reason, we enacted the Every Stu- can send the agreement to President ‘‘It’s an epidemic, not a crime spree.’’ dent Succeeds Act education reform Trump for his signature. We took decisive action against her- law last Congress, which sends power Mr. President, I suggest the absence oin and opioid abuse last year with the back to the States, parents, and teach- of a quorum. passage of the Comprehensive Addic- ers, and this funding bill will support The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tion and Recovery Act and the 21st its implementation, giving our schools clerk will call the roll. Century Cures Act. This bill before us, the resources they need to prepare our The senior assistant legislative clerk when we pass it, will provide signifi- students. proceeded to call the roll. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I cant new resources to combat this cri- This funding legislation also supports ask unanimous consent that the order sis as well. school choice through reauthorization for the quorum call be rescinded. These critical funds will go to pre- of the DC Opportunity Scholarship The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. SUL- vention, treatment, and enforcement Program and through increased Fed- LIVAN). Without objection, it is so or- programs that can help our commu- eral funding for charter schools. Both dered. nities heal from this scourge and help of these school choice provisions will Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I keep more families from ever knowing help expand opportunities for parents ask unanimous consent that the time the suffering associated with this epi- to send their children to the school until 1:45 p.m. today be equally divided demic. that best meets their needs. in the usual form and that at 1:45 p.m., Look, there is still more work to do In my home State of Kentucky, the the motion to refer with amendment be to get the opioid crisis under control, increased support for charter schools withdrawn, the motion to concur with but this funding legislation will take will be very important, as the new Re- amendment be withdrawn, and the Sen- another critical step in the right direc- publican majority in Frankfort re- ate vote on the motion to concur in the tion. That is why substance abuse cently passed a charter schools law. House amendment to the Senate treatment organizations support it, in- Yesterday I met with State Rep- amendment to H.R. 244. cluding one local group that recently resentative Carney and charter school The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there contacted my office in support of the advocates who were key to shepherding objection? bill. This legislation, in their words, this legislation into law down in Ken- Without objection, it is so ordered. will help ‘‘[enhance] the ability of tucky. I thank them for their efforts RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY LEADER front lines providers to more effec- on behalf of Kentucky’s students and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tively deploy resources and tackle this families, and I look forward to working Democratic leader is recognized. epidemic within our communities.’’ with them to support charter schools Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, yes- That is making a positive and mean- in Kentucky going forward. terday afternoon the House approved ingful impact in the lives of the men By funding the implementation of the Omnibus appropriations bill that and women we represent. the Every Student Succeeds Act and will fund the government through Sep- Healthcare benefits for thousands of supporting school choice across the tember. The bill is the result of weeks retired coal miners were set to expire country, this legislation will help par- and weeks of bipartisan, bicameral ne- across the country at the end of this ents and students achieve strong edu- gotiations, and the final product re- week. Men and women who dedicated cational outcomes. That is making a flects the give-and-take of those nego- their lives to providing an affordable positive and meaningful impact in the tiations. Again, I want to thank the and reliable source of energy to this lives of the men and women we rep- majority leader for all of his hard work Nation would have lost their resent. and his desire to come to a good agree- healthcare, many of them when they Of course, this bill contains other im- ment, as well as the House leaders and needed it most. portant wins for the country as well. It the leadership of the Appropriations I have met with retired coal miners includes the largest border security Committees. It has proved to many numerous times in my office about this funding increase in a decade, allowing that Washington can work when we issue, including one retiree from our country to better support border work together. Georgetown, KY, who worked as an un- security agents, enhance technology, In my view, this is a very good bill derground miner for 10 years. He suf- and update critical infrastructure down for the American people. Not only does fers from diabetes and heart disease, at the border. It includes important re- it explicitly preclude funding for an un- and his wife is a breast cancer survivor. sources to help us begin rebuilding our necessary and ineffective border wall, ‘‘There is no question whether or not military, allowing our country to give it excludes over 160 poison pill riders, it we need our health insurance to con- servicemembers more of the tools that increases investments in programs that tinue,’’ he said. ‘‘Without it, we would they need, and fund a much needed the middle class relies on, such as med- probably lose our home, [which] would raise for our men and women in uni- ical research, education, and infra- be catastrophic not to mention what form. structure. might happen to our health because we On military funding, we broke out of The National Institutes of Health could not afford to get coverage or our the years-long insistence by our col- will get an additional $2 billion—part medicine.’’ leagues on the other side that every in- of the Cancer Moonshot. Pell grants These coal miner retirees clearly crease in defense had to be met by an will be restored for over 1 million stu- needed our help, which is why I have increase on the domestic side. That is dents. Infrastructure programs like been fighting for their healthcare at no longer the law. CDBG and TIGER will get an increase. every step of the way. Today I am As I have outlined several times this Programs to combat the terrible proud that this funding legislation in- week, this legislation includes other scourge of opioid abuse will receive an cludes my proposal to permanently ex- conservative priorities as well. Impor- increase. Clean energy research will re- tend healthcare benefits for thousands tantly, it achieves these things while ceive an increase. Ninety-nine percent of retirees across the Nation and in conforming to spending caps and reduc- of the EPA’s budget was protected. Kentucky. These coal miners and their ing bureaucracy, even consolidating, In addition, there is a permanent ex- families can live with the peace of eliminating, or rescinding funds for tension of miners’ health benefits, mind they have been looking for. That over 150 government programs and ini- thanks to the hard work of JOE is making a positive and meaningful tiatives. MANCHIN and so many others; funding impact in the lives of the men and Because of hard work from both to shore up Puerto Rico’s Medicaid women we represent. Chambers and both sides of the aisle, Program and a mechanism to allow the For too long, Federal bureaucrats in we have a funding bill before us that island to restructure its debt; and fund- Washington imposed one-size-fits-all can make many important and positive ing to help States like California, West education policies on our children. Dis- impacts in the lives of the people we Virginia, Louisiana, and North Caro- tant bureaucrats dictated nationwide represent. I know I will be supporting lina recover from natural disasters. It

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:07 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.011 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 has a very good increase for NASA, All those things stay the same. This stituents who hate this bill, and they which I will talk about at the end of minor change made by the House at would back off. my remarks before my colleague from the last minute doesn’t change any of Only 17 percent of Americans ap- Florida speaks about the hard and suc- those things. proved of TrumpCare. The rest of them cessful work he has done on the NASA For the same reasons TrumpCare 1 packed townhall meetings and public budget. only got the support of 17 percent of forums to demand that their House Of course, the bill doesn’t include all the American people, TrumpCare 2 will Members reject it. They wrote and of the things we wanted. It doesn’t in- probably have even less support. called, emailed, and contacted Mem- clude all of the things our Republican All the while, these cuts end up giv- bers on social media. Those were the colleagues wanted. That is the nature ing a massive tax break to the wealthi- voices of average Americans who of compromise. But at the end of the est Americans—those making over stopped the first TrumpCare proposal day, this is an agreement which re- $250,000 a year, multimillionaires, bil- from even receiving a vote. flects our basic principles, and it is lionaires. Even insurance executives Now Republicans are trying to sneak something both Democrats and Repub- who make over $500,000 a year will get through their second, even worse licans should support. a tax break, while middle class and version of TrumpCare without debate The bill shows how bipartisanship in older Americans get the short end of or any analysis of what it would mean Congress should work—both parties ne- the stick. Here we are telling average for our country. Maybe it raises costs gotiating in good faith in order to find Americans they are going to get less on working Americans even more. consensus. It passed in the House with coverage, they are going to pay more, Maybe it doubles the amount of unin- an overwhelming bipartisan majority so we can give the multimillionaires a sured Americans. The House won’t of 309 votes, and I expect it will receive huge tax break. Who would be for that? know before voting on the bill. the Senate’s approval later today. As more and more Americans find I sincerely hope that if this bill More broadly, I hope this deal pro- out, the vote over there is going to be passes—I pray it doesn’t—the Senate vides a blueprint for future budget ne- much less popular even than it is won’t mimic the House and try to rush gotiations between our two parties today, and it is very unpopular today, a bill through without hearings or de- here in Congress. If the four corners— with only 17 percent of Americans lik- bate or analysis. the Senate and House Democrats and ing the bill. It is hard to get lower than Mr. President, regardless of the proc- Republicans—work as well on the 2018 that, but I think, as people learn more ess, TrumpCare is a breathtakingly ir- budget as we did on the 2017 budget, we about this bill, it will get even lower. responsible piece of legislation that will have a product we can be proud of, The House Republicans have added would endanger the health of tens of with no worries about any kind of gov- an amendment that makes the bill millions of Americans and break the ernment shutdown. even more cruel. It would allow States bank for millions more. I don’t know TRUMPCARE to opt out of the requirement to cover what my friends in the House would Mr. President, on healthcare, as the folks with preexisting conditions for say to their constituents if they vote House plans to vote on their new vision the services they need. God forbid you for this bill. and version of TrumpCare later today, have a preexisting condition and live in What would you say to a 56-year-old I just want to remind the American a State that doesn’t keep the require- in your district, who is already strug- people of a few things. ment. Your only option might be a gling to balance the cost of medicine We are now on the second major at- poorly subsidized high-risk pool where and rent and groceries, when she has to tempt to pass TrumpCare. While all the you might be forced to wait in line for pay more than five times as much in focus in the media has been on the virtually unaffordable coverage. Re- healthcare as someone who is 35 and changes to the bill, we shouldn’t forget member the death panels scare tactic healthy? the bad things that stay in the under- used against ObamaCare? They didn’t What would you say to the mother in lying bill and what they would mean actually exist in ObamaCare, but they your district whose daughter has can- for millions of Americans. might in TrumpCare. These high-risk cer and who is worried that if she ever Under the new bill, as under the old, pools, with long lines and unaffordable lapses in coverage, the insurance com- TrumpCare would mean that premiums coverage, are the real death panels. pany can raise the rates so high on her go up 20 percent in the first few years. That same amendment means an in- family that she couldn’t afford to get Average costs go up by over $1,500 a surance company can charge an older health insurance for her daughter and year on the middle class. American even more than five times would have to watch her suffer? The It would mean that if you are strug- the amount they are charged under the agony a parent would go through. What gling to make it into the middle class base bill. It would take us back to the do you say to that mother? with an income, say, around $30,000 a days when insurance companies could I don’t know how any of my Repub- year, your costs could go up by $3 or price sick people out of insurance and lican colleagues here in the Senate $4,000. drive older Americans to bankruptcy when we get this bill and now in the It would mean insurers could charge by charging outlandish rates. That is House can explain why they voted to older Americans five times or more the what House Republicans did with the rip away people’s healthcare. amount charged to younger folks. Even bill to win more votes. It is If there were a Hippocratic Oath for the 1-to-5 ratio, as bad as it was, as unfathomable. Congress, ‘‘Do no harm,’’ TrumpCare much as it raised the hackles of the We don’t even know how large the would never come up for a vote. It members of the AARP and senior citi- negative impact of these changes will harms the American people in so many zens, the 54- through 64-year-olds be because we don’t have a CBO score. ways. It doesn’t have to be this way. throughout America—this bill makes Does anyone imagine this amendment Republicans could drop these efforts that worse. will result in even more Americans for repeal, drop these attempts that are It would devastate Medicaid, a pro- being insured? Does anyone imagine it undermining our healthcare system gram that covers 68 million Americans. will provide better coverage for Ameri- and causing insurers to flee the mar- That would affect poor people in the cans with preexisting conditions? I ketplace, and come work with Demo- inner cities, but it would also affect don’t think so. crats on improving the healthcare sys- people in nursing homes, and the young That explains why Republican col- tem. Our door is open. men and women aged 45 to 50 who have leagues in the House are rushing it So I would just make one final plea parents in nursing homes are going to through with hardly any debate, no to my Republican friends in the House. have to face an awful choice—more hearings, and no CBO score. They don’t I know they rarely listen to Senate money out of their pockets or their want the American people to see this leaders, especially Democratic ones, parents having to find another place to bill. The leaders of the House were pan- but this is an issue where so much is at live. icked that if they didn’t pass the bill stake that I hope they forget party la- It would still mean, worst of all, that today, their Members would go home bels at the moment. I ask them to do 24 million fewer Americans will have for 2 weeks—they are on recess over in what representatives should do, some- health insurance. the House—get beaten up by their con- thing very simple: Think about your

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:07 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.012 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2743 constituents. Consult your conscience portation Committee. It is that sub- other systems will be assembled and before you vote for this bill. committee’s chairman and ranking launched, and a lot of that is being I believe if they truly do and consider member, as well as the chairman and done at Florida’s Space Coast. The first what every independent expert and ranking member from the sub- rockets and spacecraft that will start medical association is saying about committee on the Appropriations Com- the journey are being assembled right this bill and what it would mean for mittee, from whom we will hear mo- now at various sites across the coun- our healthcare system, they will come mentarily—to all of them, I am very try. Right now, the Space Launch Sys- to the right conclusion and vote no grateful. tem—the SLS rocket, the Orion space- today. What it says is that NASA—Amer- craft that sits on top of it—and the On one final issue, Mr. President, I ica’s civilian space program—should launch infrastructure at Cape Canav- see my friend from Florida about to not be a partisan subject. What it says eral or, more specifically, the Kennedy take the floor. I would like to yield to is that the leaders of NASA should not Space Center, are all in the most chal- him for a moment, but before I do, I be partisans. As a matter of fact, they lenging stages of their development. would like to recognize his outstanding should even be more than bipartisans— These complex systems are all very efforts in securing additional funding they should be nonpartisans. That has intertwined, and it is vital that we in the appropriations bill for NASA. been the tradition of NASA’s, so like make sure that NASA has the funding NASA had actually been targeted for that of the Secretary of Defense. One flexibility that it needs to address certain cuts by the Trump administra- considers that appointment to be a issues as they come up so that they can tion in their budget that would nix the nonpartisan. So, too, we consider the bring these systems together for the program to send a mission to Europa, a Administrator of NASA to be a non- launch in early 2019 of the largest rock- Moon of Jupiter. Thanks to the advo- partisan. I think, in this interim, with et ever. We have asked NASA to look for new cacy of Senator NELSON, NASA will get the Acting Administrator of NASA, an overall increase of $368 million in that they are conducting themselves in ways to expand commercial space ac- the appropriations bill—enough to fund a very significant way in keeping all of tivities in Earth’s orbit, and we are providing NASA with the tools and the that mission. the advancements that they have done direction it needs to expand our com- I know this issue is near and dear to but that are now to be accelerated with mercial space activity. We are right on BILL’s heart. As a young Congressman, this appropriations bill. he was the second sitting Member of I congratulate the whole NASA team. track to begin launching astronauts to Congress and the first Member in the It has been my argument to the Vice the International Space Station on House to serve on a NASA mission, President and to the President that in American rockets, commercially made, aboard the space shuttle Columbia. He the selection of the next leader of and that is going to start next year. People do not realize—they thought has a passion for and a deep knowledge NASA, they need to do it in a non- the space shuttle was being shut down of our space program. There is no one partisan way so that we can keep going in 2011. They thought that was the end in the Senate who has done more for it for this human mission that is going to of the space program. No. No. All of than BILL NELSON. He has worked hard the planet Mars in the decade of the this is being developed aside from the ever since he got to the Senate, and he 2030s. robotic missions that there have been With the increase in NASA funding, has had great success. with the rovers on Mars and all of the we now stand on the precipice of a new Once again, he has had a success here pictures of the cosmos. I mean, it is golden age of exploration and dis- today. His constituents in Florida and just unbelievable. Next year we are covery. In March of this year, several all Americans should be grateful that going to replace the Hubble Space Tel- of us were at the White House when the BILL is a real leader on both of these escope, which has peered back into the President signed the NASA authoriza- issues in our caucus and in the whole beginning of time. We are going to look Senate. tion bill. What we have worked on for back almost to the beginning of time I yield to my friend, the Senator the better part of 2 years keeps NASA with the James Webb Space Telescope. from Florida. on a steady course, with a balanced and All of this is strengthening a flour- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ambitious mix of science, technology, ishing U.S. space industry, especially ator from Florida. and exploration initiatives. Let’s not in the areas in which NASA centers are Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, many, forget that the first ‘‘A’’ in ‘‘NASA’’ is located around the country. What is many thanks to the leader for his kind ‘‘aeronautics.’’ It keeps all of that happening at the Kennedy Space Cen- remarks. moving forward. ter is that it is being transformed into The final bill was negotiated by the This additional $368 million of fund- a commercial as well as a government big four—the two leaders in the Senate ing for NASA gives that little agency spaceport—into a busy civil, military, and the two leaders in the House. It the ability to build off of the momen- and commercial spaceport. was not going to happen this way un- tum that is already there. For exam- This appropriations budget allows us less the leaders all agreed, so my pro- ple, in the White House, the Vice Presi- to continue all of this going on at the found thanks on behalf of the explorers dent—and I have commended him both same time. We are going to put up gee- and the adventurers of the United privately and publicly—is bringing whiz things like the Wide Field Infra- States—the ‘‘can do’’ little agency, about the reestablishment of the Na- red Survey Telescope, as well as addi- NASA, that is now on its way to Mars. tional Space Council. I shared with him tional Mars rovers. The rovers that are On behalf of all of the NASA family, that all of us look forward to working up there show that Mars, at one point, I thank the leaders and especially the with him and the Council to develop was warm and wet. We are going to Democratic leader. A personal thanks and carry out the ambitious civil, com- find out whether there was life there. If for his very kind comments. mercial, and national security space there were, was it developed? If there Mr. President, we have approached agenda for this country. were, was it civilized? If there were, the NASA bill in a bipartisan way. As The $19.65 billion appropriation for what happened? These are lingering a matter of fact, I give great credit to NASA, coupled with the NASA author- questions as we peer up into the night both the chairs and the ranking mem- ization bill that we already passed a sky. The funding included in this budg- bers on the House Science, Space, and month or two ago, demonstrates our et deal moves us ever closer to answer- Technology Committee, as well as on firm commitment to one day putting ing that burning question: Are we the subcommittee on appropriations in humans on Mars and permanently ex- alone in the universe? This budget the House that handles NASA appro- panding our civilization out into the helps us better understand our own priations. All of those leaders were ab- cosmos. We will soon have a regular ca- planet by funding NASA’s Earth solutely key. dence of missions that will be launch- Science Program, as well as funding Of course, the same thing is true here ing into deep space using the Space aeronautics and education programs in the Senate. As the ranking member, Launch System—the largest rocket for our youth. I have the privilege of sharing the lead- ever, a third more powerful than the The investments that we as a coun- ership with our chairman, JOHN THUNE, Saturn V rocket that took us to the try make in our space program pay im- on the Commerce, Science, and Trans- Moon. Its spacecraft—the Orion—and mediate dividends to our quality of life

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.013 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 right here on Earth. Of course, the the vision for our grand experiment in based on sexuality and gender identity space program creates thousands and democracy, our grand experiment in es- is not welcome in this country. We thousands of jobs for skilled workers to tablishing a democratic republic—a na- must make nondiscrimination the law build machines that help us explore the tion, of, by, and for the people, where of the land here in the United States of heavens and jobs for the researchers to each and every person is equal, each America. understand and interpret what we dis- and every person has the ability to pur- It is certainly true that we have cover and jobs for the engineers and sue their happiness, to pursue oppor- made some progress in recent years. the entrepreneurs to develop new tech- tunity. We may not have always suc- We passed the Matthew Shepard and nologies. These public investments also ceeded, but for centuries, the story of James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Preven- stimulate complementary investments our Nation—the American story—has tion Act, which expanded the definition of private capital and the thousands of been one of striving to live up to that of a Federal hate crime to include as- jobs that follow from that, and those promise of a more perfect union, where saults based on sexual identity or gen- are companies that will partner with every citizen is equal, every citizen has der orientation. We repealed don’t ask, NASA. opportunity, and every citizen can pur- don’t tell, a policy that banned LGBTQ Again, I thank our colleagues in both sue happiness. soldiers from serving openly in our the House and the Senate for their con- Martin Luther King said in the midst military for 17 years and that forced tinued support of our space program. In of the civil rights struggle: more than 13,000 servicemembers out of this time when we find ourselves far Human progress is neither automatic nor the military with dishonorable dis- too divided in our politics, the explo- inevitable. . . . Every step toward the goal of charges. ration of space continues to be a pow- justice requires sacrifice, suffering, struggle; What we did was undermine the effec- erful force that brings us together into the tireless exertions and passionate concern tiveness of our military by taking our search as we explore the universe. of dedicated individuals. away the enormous talents and skills Mr. President, I yield the floor. And it is with that type of tireless of those individuals. And 6 years after The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- exertion and passionate concern that repealing that policy, our military is ator from Oregon. we have been on this path toward stronger for it. Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I com- equality and opportunity for all. In the Affordable Care Act, we make pliment our colleague from Florida on We have made a lot of strides. We sure that no one can be denied his articulating this powerful vision for have broken down a lot of barriers in healthcare because of their sexual ori- humankind, which is the ability to overcoming discrimination and in ad- entation or gender identity. Then, in look into the night sky and ponder the vancing opportunity for one group of 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the mysteries of the universe, the mys- Americans after another. For women, Defense of Marriage Act, which defined teries of life, in the most complete for African Americans, for indigenous marriage as a union between a man and way. America has led this scientific ad- peoples, for immigrants, for Americans a woman, was unconstitutional, it was venture, this scientific journey, and we with disabilities, the journey goes on must continue to be at the lead of this discriminatory, it was in fundamental and on. But regardless of how far we journey for all of the reasons he has violation of the vision of our Constitu- have come, it is clear we still have a laid out today. tion. I thank my colleague from Florida long way to go. Then, in 2015, the Supreme Court There are still too many of our for leading Congress in pursuing and found, in Obergefell v. Hodges, that advocating for this vision and for de- friends, too many of our neighbors, too love is love, regardless of gender or sex- veloping the instruments on the many of our coworkers, our brothers ual orientation, and required all States ground and the instruments in space and sisters who don’t enjoy the same to recognize same-sex marriages and that will advance our knowledge. rights and protections as everyone else. issue marriage licenses to same-sex They are members of the LGBTQ com- couples. EQUALITY ACT Mr. President, I rise to speak about a munity, and they continue to go One barrier after another—one bar- different vision, the vision articulated through every single day confronting rier after another of discrimination, in our Constitution, those first three discrimination simply because of who one barrier after another that pre- words of our Constitution, ‘‘We the they are or whom they love. That is sented an obstruction to opportunity People.’’ simply not right. There should be no has fallen in a relatively short period It is this vision of a nation founded room for that kind of hate, for that of time, and that is something all of us on the principle of a government that kind of discrimination here in the should celebrate in the vision of equal- would serve not the privileged, not the United States of America. ity and opportunity embedded in the powerful, not the few, not the elite, but That is why this week I have reintro- vision of our Nation. But we cannot serve the entire set of citizenry. Those duced the Equality Act. I have reintro- allow ourselves to lose sight of the fact powerful words were put in supersized duced it with powerful support from that as much as these have been steps font in our Constitution. So from Senator TAMMY BALDWIN and Senator forward, we are still far from ending across the room, you might not be able CORY BOOKER, who have really been the discrimination to the LGBTQ commu- to read the details, but you can read leaders who have driven this forward nity here in America. the mission: ‘‘We the People’’—a gov- here in the Senate. We have been Today, every State is required to rec- ernment of, by, and for the people, as joined now by 43 additional colleagues, ognize same-sex marriages and issue President Lincoln so eloquently said. so that is 46 Senators, original cospon- wedding licenses to same-sex couples. But this vision in the Constitution sors, in support of this vision of equal- But 30 of those States still do not have followed up on the principles articu- ity. That is a powerful stride from a legal framework that ends discrimi- lated in the Declaration of Independ- where we were just a few years ago, nation. In 30 of those States, the legal ence. In 1776, 56 of our Nation’s best when we didn’t even have an Equality framework of the State does not pre- minds, our best leaders, gathered to- Act to be presented here in the halls of vent someone from being fired from gether in Philadelphia to debate, to Congress. their job for being gay or lesbian or work out a document unlike any other We launched this act in partnership transitioning; those States do not have in history—a document that changed with the House, where Congressman a structure which prohibits a same-sex the course of world history—the Dec- DAVID CICILLINE has been the leader, couple to be refused services, to be laration of Independence. It said: ‘‘We and he has been joined by 194 of his col- evicted from an apartment, to be hold these truths to be self-evident, leagues as original cosponsors. banned from a restaurant, to be denied that all men are created equal, that JOHN LEWIS said during the civil opportunities to serve on a jury, to be they are endowed by their Creator with rights struggle: ‘‘If not us, then who? If turned away at the door in pursuit of a certain unalienable Rights, that among not now, when?’’ All of us should be mortgage. these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit called to action in this fight for the We hear these stories from individ- of Happiness.’’ fundamental principle of equality, for uals. Ask the science teacher who was Together, the Declaration of Inde- us to stand up together and declare fired after telling her principal that pendence and the Constitution laid out once and for all that discrimination she and her wife were planning to get

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.015 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2745 pregnant or the same-sex couple that their apartment, as long as Americans Act. It is time to consider the Equality was forced to leave a park after kissing can be denied service at a restaurant or Act in the Senate of the United States. in public or how about the woman who a hotel room or kicked out of a public At a time when so much discrimina- was fired from her job as a security park or denied the right to use a bath- tion, so many daily assaults occur on guard in a Savannah hospital, and room just for being who they are or for our fellow citizens, shouldn’t we be when she took the hospital to court, whom they love, we need to keep fight- holding a hearing to have these citi- she lost under the framework of law in ing. We need to keep pushing to end zens speak up and share their stories? that State. discrimination. Shouldn’t we be holding a vote to de- Or ask the LGBTQ community in Or- Imagine, if you will, when you open a termine whether or not we truly be- lando. What we see is that when we business in America, the principle, lieve in our constitutional vision? have discriminatory laws, a discrimi- since the 1964 Civil Rights Act, has Shouldn’t we have to confront the fact natory legal structure, that engenders been that you open the door to all. You that we still have discrimination in discrimination, and the discrimination don’t let in a person with one color of housing, in employment, in schools, in facilitates and engenders hate, and skin and slam the door on the next who restaurants, and in theaters? In fact, in hate leads to violence. So we saw in Or- has darker skin. You don’t let in one every walk of life in America, in 30 lando when last summer a crazed gun- gender and slam the door on the other States, we still have this discrimina- man attacked those who were at the gender. You don’t let in one ethnicity tion without a legal framework in Pulse Nightclub and took the lives of and slam the door on the other eth- those States to provide protection. 49 innocent people. nicity. Under the Equality Act, sexual ori- The States that have no framework These fundamental provisions of entation and gender identity receive are many. They cross our country— equality, where the door is open to the same clear level of protection that Idaho and Montana and Wyoming, each citizen by those who provide serv- race, religion, gender, and ethnicity al- North and South Dakota, Nebraska, ices to the public—that is the founda- ready enjoy, thanks to the 1964 Civil Kansas and Oklahoma, Arizona, Alaska tion for each individual to be able to Rights Act. The Equality Act will help and Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, Lou- live their life fully, to be able to fully us fulfill the promise of America, as isiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ken- pursue their potential, to fully pursue Ted Kennedy presented it, that justice tucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, West their opportunity, to fully pursue hap- under the law is not complete when it Virginia, Pennsylvania, Virginia, piness as envisioned in the Declaration is denied to even one among us. North and South Carolina, Georgia, of Independence. I am a steadfast believer in our Na- Alabama and Florida—no legal struc- A former Senator of this body, who tion’s founding principle that all of us ture to end this sort of discrimination. served here when I was an intern in were created equal, that we are ‘‘en- At some point in their lives, approxi- 1974, who served here in 2009 when I dowed by our Creator with certain mately two-thirds of all LGBTQ Ameri- came to the U.S. Senate, Ted Kennedy unalienable Rights, that among these cans face discrimination because of said: ‘‘The promise of America will are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of their sexuality or gender identifica- never be fulfilled as long as justice is Happiness.’’ But you don’t have liberty tion. Roughly a quarter of lesbian and denied to even one among us.’’ Yet jus- if the door of discrimination is gay and bisexual working Americans tice is denied every day—every day—in slammed in your face when you seek an have lost a promotion because of noth- 30 States across our Nation where the apartment. You don’t have liberty ing more than who they are or whom door of discrimination is slammed shut when the ugly face of discrimination they love. And nearly—in fact, more on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and blocks you from an opportunity to serve in a job. You don’t have pursuit than a quarter of transgender, working transgender individuals. of happiness when you face a discrimi- Americans report that in just a single We the people in America understand natory framework in 30 of our 50 year, they have been fired or not hired that it is time to stop slamming the door of discrimination shut and open States. or denied advancement. We all ought to have the same free- There is no Federal framework to end the door to full opportunity and full dom to be who we are, to love whom we discrimination. Today, only 20 States equality as envisioned in our founding love, to pursue our lives and careers and the District of Columbia have documents. Sixty percent of Americans free of discrimination. I will not rest passed laws banning discrimination support same-sex marriages. More than until that is true for everyone in our based on sexual orientation and gender half oppose North Carolina’s bathroom country. I say to my colleagues: Let us bill and other similar bills that dis- identity in the workplace, in housing, all not rest until we complete this vi- criminate against transgender individ- in public accommodations. Another sion of opportunity and equality for uals. three States have a partial set of pro- all. According to one study by the Public tections. But instead of seeing the re- I suggest the absence of a quorum. maining States that still have a frame- Religion Research Institute, more than The PRESIDING OFFICER. The work that provides for discrimination, 70 percent of Americans support com- clerk will call the roll. we have seen more and more discrimi- prehensive Federal legislation. Public The bill clerk proceeded to call the natory legislation—laws like North opinion is in support of moving for- roll. Carolina’s HB2, the so-called bathroom ward—moving forward to keep the door Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I ask bill, which said that transgender indi- of opportunity open and to stop slam- unanimous consent that the order for viduals had to use a bathroom that ming the door of discrimination in the the quorum call be rescinded. matches their birth certificate and face of our citizens. It is time for us to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without which blocked local jurisdictions from stand up for our fellow citizens, time objection, it is so ordered. passing antidiscrimination measures to for us to speak out against this dis- REPUBLICAN HEALTHCARE BILL protect LGBTQ citizens; or Senate bill crimination, time for us to declare Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I 149 out of South Dakota, signed into once and for all that every American, come this morning to talk about the law in March, saying that LGBTQ peo- no matter who they are or whom they impending passage of a very failed ple who want to adopt or foster chil- love, deserves to live free from fear, healthcare bill in the House of Rep- dren can be rejected by State-funded free from violence, and free from dis- resentatives and to remind my col- agencies based on the religious beliefs crimination. It is time for us to stand leagues that this legislation moving of the agency. with our friends, our neighbors, our co- through the House of Representatives Already this year, there have been workers, and our brothers and sisters is the first time in the 50-plus years of more than 100 discriminatory pieces of in the LGBTQ community. It is time the Medicaid Program that they are draft legislation offered in State legis- for us to move forward and create non- going to pass legislation to cap and latures across our country. discrimination legislation based on the cost-shift Medicaid costs to States. As long as people in our Nation are same sound foundation that has served This is an $839 billion cost shift from afraid to put their spouse’s photo on so well in regards to addressing dis- the Federal government to States and their desk at work, as long as citizens crimination in other parts of our soci- a one-quarter cut to the Federal Med- are worried about being evicted from ety, and that is the 1964 Civil Rights icaid investment over a period of ten

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.016 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2746 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 years. Some 14 million Americans will ing home care to community-based In 2015, the global middle class spent lose Medicaid coverage. These draco- care. $33 trillion. By some estimates, the nian and arbitrary budget caps will This chart shows how many States in middle class could surpass 4 billion leave States with impossible choices to the United States of America are doing people by the year 2021, making it a cut people from care, cut provider re- this. This is in the Affordable Care Act. majority of the world’s population. imbursements, or reduce benefits. We wrote a provision encouraging Approximately one in three jobs in Overall, 24 million Americans will lose States to try to rebalance their popu- the State of Washington are tied to their health insurance. That is accord- lation, not encouraging so much nurs- international trade. Washington State ing to a recent Congressional Budget ing home care because it is so expen- exported approximately $80 billion in Office analysis. sive, and instead, trying to deliver the goods in 2016—from airplanes and cof- Why do I say this is a broken prom- long-term care people need in their in- fee to apples and software. I know this ise? Because it was very clear that, dividual communities. about our State: we understand that we when President Trump was a can- The great success of this is that are in a global economy and that we didate, he said he was not going to cut many States in the Affordable Care Act have great products to sell in inter- Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. took us up on it—States like Nevada, national markets. Why is that important? Because Iowa, Missouri, Texas, Arkansas, Mis- Agriculture exports are very impor- these are trusted programs that have sissippi, Georgia, Kentucky, Ohio, tant to our State. Agriculture adds worked cost effectively for so many Pennsylvania, New York, and Maine. I about $51 billion a year to our State’s Americans in giving them access to saw in our own State, over a 15-year GDP, and the agricultural sector care. Now is not the time, as we have period of time, that we saved roughly makes up more than 13 percent of our seen a Medicaid expansion, to now $2.7 billion. That is $2.7 billion of cost. State’s economy. In 2016, Washington cost-shift Medicaid to the States by Instead of paying for a Medicaid popu- exported $15 billion worth of food and breaking this promise and putting in lation in expensive nursing home set- agriculture products with $7 billion it, for the first time in 50 years, a sub- tings, we instead innovated and put being of Washington origin. We are No. stantial change to the way Medicaid them into what was a cost-effective de- 1 in the nation in production of apples, works. It does represent, in my opin- livery system in which people love to hops, spearmint oil, wrinkled seed ion, a war on Medicaid—one that we stay in their home as they age as op- peas, concord grapes, sweet cherries, cannot afford to wage. posed to the notion of expensive nurs- pears, green peas, raspberries for proc- Communities that have benefited ing home care. essing, blueberries and aquaculture. We from Medicaid expansion have seen the I mention that because that $2.7 bil- are No. 2 in production of potatoes, cer- value of coverage and a healthy popu- lion could be the kind of savings we tain kinds of grapes, nectarines, apri- lation. All you have to do is to talk to would see in these States. So I tell my cots, prunes, plums, sweet corn for healthcare providers, hospitals, cham- colleagues from the House: Innovate; processing, and a variety of other bers of commerce, and others to get don’t capitate. Don’t try to say that things. them to say that, yes, having more you have an ingenious idea on how to This is to say that in the State of people with healthcare coverage in our take care of healthcare costs by simply Washington, we grow a lot for overseas community has helped us in raising the capitating, for the first time in 50-plus markets. Why am I talking about this standard of living. years, the Medicaid Program and then important aspect of this bill that is Why is that? First of all, uncompen- leaving the States to pick up the bill. passing to keep our government open sated care is no longer put at the hos- It won’t work. Follow the ideas and today? Because in our State and across pital’s doorstep. Secondly, the popu- strategies that are much better in our country, we need to encourage lation with healthcare coverage is helping us cut costs for an aging popu- more small businesses to export. And healthier, getting treatment in ad- lation that is living longer, and look we need to make sure we have enforce- vance as opposed to waiting for a cri- for fixes that are already there in the ment of a level playing field so that sis. It represents an investment in the Affordable Care Act to do so. U.S. companies of all sizes and U.S. community that allows a community I yield the floor. workers are protected as they compete to stabilize. I suggest the absence of a quorum. in that global economy. These are important issues for us to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The That is why, in the previously passed discuss. I hope my colleagues in the clerk will call the roll. Customs bill, I created a Trade En- Senate will not fall for this ploy or The bill clerk proceeded to call the forcement Trust Fund at the Office of that they will not go back on promises roll. U.S. Trade Representative. Now, with made by this administration not to cut Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I ask this legislation passing today, we are Medicaid. unanimous consent that the order for putting $15 million toward that trust There are other aspects of the bill the quorum call be rescinded. fund to be spent exclusively on enforc- coming over from the House of Rep- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ing trade agreements. We need to en- resentatives, obviously, dealing with objection, it is so ordered. force the agreements and make sure preexisting conditions, and we know Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I Washington and businesses around the from our own experience in the State note, too, that we are going to be mov- country get a fair deal as we work on of Washington that high-risk pools ing today, before we leave here, to trade. And $15 million in the fund have covered only a tiny portion of what is the Omnibus resolution to keep would help us fight trade issues we people with preexisting conditions and the government open. have seen all over the globe. are inadequate unless properly funded. I wanted to mention an important as- For example, sometimes people try As an article from the Seattle Times, pect of the legislation we are going to to sell their products by taking the from 2009, entitled ‘‘Dozens of patients be voting on. Pursuant to provisions in great labels we have on Washington ap- cut from state’s high-risk insurance the Customs bill, we are now going to ples and putting them on foreign apples pool’’ stated: ‘‘with premiums that can put funding into trade enforcement—a making them seem like Washington top $20,000 a year, patients don’t ex- very important aspect of our trade apples, when in reality they are not. actly clamor to join the state’s high- agenda. This bill gives us money for trade en- risk health-insurance pool—a public in- We know that more than 96 percent forcement to address these challenges. surer of last resort for patients with of the world’s customers live outside Sometimes we have intellectual cancer, AIDS and other serious dis- the United States. By some estimates, property that is hijacked or stolen eases . . . ,’’ and ‘‘the premiums cover at least 70 percent of the world’s pur- from companies in our State. This bill only about 30 percent of the patients’ chasing power is outside the United puts more enforcement in place to medical and prescription expenses.’’ States. That means that we need to fight those crimes and to make sure we There are many things that are keep working hard to reach these new are enforcing our trade agreements. working in the Affordable Care Act. We markets and these customers. The The trust fund gives the framework have done great things on rebalancing; growing middle class has great pur- and workforce to enforce trade laws that is, to rebalance people from nurs- chasing power. governing exports to that burgeoning,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.020 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2747 as I said, growing middle class outside tains spending that qualifies for cap 251(b)(2)(B) of BBEDCA. CBO estimates the United States. We must make sure adjustments under current statute. that this budget authority will result our products are sold and sold cor- This measure includes $93,470 million in $1,635 million in outlays this year. rectly and any disputes that are hap- in budget authority that is designated As a result of the aforementioned pening are resolved and resolved quick- as being for overseas contingency oper- designations, I am revising the budget ly so our trade with those countries ations/global war on terrorism pursu- authority and outlay allocations to the can be cost-effective to our growers, to ant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of our manufacturers, and to the work- BBEDCA. Of that amount, $76,985 mil- Committee on Appropriations by in- force within our State. lion is for spending in the security cat- creasing revised security budget au- I am sure every Member here who has egory, and $16,485 million is for non- thority by $76,985 million, revised non- companies that have done trade in this security spending. CBO estimates that security budget authority by $26,602 global economy can tell you stories of this budget authority will result in million, and increasing outlays by how the lack of trade enforcement has $41,444 million in outlays in fiscal year $43,912 million in fiscal year 2017. Fur- cost them business. This fund is a very 2017. ther, I am increasing the budgetary ag- positive shot in the arm to our U.S. Division F includes $6,713 million in gregate for fiscal year 2017 by $103,161 trade office, so they have the resources nonsecurity discretionary budget au- million in budget authority and out- to do more enforcement and make sure thority that is designated as being for lays by $43,541 million. our products are winning in the over- disaster relief pursuant to section I ask unanimous consent that the ac- seas markets. 251(b)(2)(D) of BBEDCA. This designa- companying tables, which provide de- I yield the floor. tion makes the spending associated tails about the adjustment, be printed BUDGETARY REVISIONS with this provision and its associated in the RECORD. Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, section 251 outlays of $336 million eligible for an of the Balanced Budget and Emergency adjustment. There being no objection, the mate- Deficit Control Act of 1985, BBEDCA, This legislation includes language rial was ordered to be printed in the establishes statutory limits on discre- that increases nonsecurity discre- RECORD, as follows: tionary spending and allows for various tionary budget authority by $1,444 mil- REVISION TO BUDGETARY AGGREGATES adjustments to those limits, while sec- lion this year and designates it as (Pursuant to Sections 311 and 314(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of tions 302 and 314(a) of the Congres- emergency funding pursuant to section 1974) sional Budget Act of 1974 allow the 251(b)(2)(A)(i) of BBEDCA. CBO esti- chairman of the Budget Committee to mates this budget authority will result $s in millions 2017 establish and make revisions to alloca- in $497 million in outlays in fiscal year Current Spending Aggregates: tions, aggregates, and levels consistent 2017. Budget Authority ...... 3,226,128 Outlays ...... 3,224,630 with those adjustments. The Senate is Finally, division H provides $1,960 in Adjustments: considering H.R. 244, the Consolidated nonsecurity discretionary budget au- Budget Authority ...... 103,161 Outlays ...... 43,541 Appropriations Act, 2017. This measure thority for program integrity efforts. Revised Spending Aggregates: provides full-year appropriations for This funding is designated pursuant to Budget Authority ...... 3,329,289 Federal Government agencies and con- section 251(b)(2)(C) and section Outlays ...... 3,268,171 REVISION TO SPENDING ALLOCATION TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017 (Pursuant to Sections 302 and 314(a) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974)

$s in millions 2017

Current Allocation: Revised Security Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 557,015 Revised Nonsecurity Category Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 526,951 General Purpose Outlays ...... 1,187,014 Adjustments: Revised Security Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 76,985 Revised Nonsecurity Category Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 26,602 General Purpose Outlays ...... 43,912 Revised Allocation: Revised Security Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 634,000 Revised Nonsecurity Category Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 553,553 General Purpose Outlays ...... 1,230,926 Memorandum: Detail of Adjustments Made Above OCO Program Integrity Disaster Relief Emergency Total

Revised Security Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 76,985 0 0 0 76,985 Revised Nonsecurity Category Discretionary Budget Authority ...... 16,485 1,960 6,713 1,444 26,602 General Purpose Outlays ...... 41,444 1,635 336 497 43,912

JOINT EXPLANATORY STATEMENT FOR THE IN- telligence Authorization Act for fiscal PART I: APPLICATION OF THE CLASSIFIED TELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL year 2017 be printed in the RECORD. ANNEX YEAR 2017 There being no objection, the mate- The classified nature of U.S. intelligence Mr. BURR. Mr. President, this expla- rial was ordered to be printed in the activities prevents the congressional intel- nation reflects the status of negotia- RECORD, as follows: ligence committees from publicly disclosing tions and disposition of issues reached many details concerning the conclusions and DIVISION N—INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZA- recommendations of the Agreement. There- between the House Permanent Select TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017 fore, a classified Schedule of Authorizations Committee on Intelligence and the The following is the explanation of the In- and a classified annex have been prepared to Senate Select Committee on Intel- telligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year describe in detail the scope and intent of the ligence. 2017. congressional intelligence committees’ ac- The explanation shall have the same This explanation reflects the status of ne- tions. The Agreement authorizes the Intel- effect with respect to the implementa- gotiations and disposition of issues reached ligence Community (IC) to obligate and ex- between the House Permanent Select Com- pend funds not altered or modified by the tion of this act as if it were a joint ex- mittee on Intelligence and the Senate Select classified Schedule of Authorizations as re- planatory statement of a conference Committee on Intelligence (hereinafter, ‘‘the quested in the President’s budget, subject to committee. The explanation comprises Agreement’’). The explanation shall have the modification under applicable reprogram- three parts: an overview of the applica- same effect with respect to the implementa- ming procedures. tion of the annex to accompany this tion of this Act as if it were a joint explana- The classified annex is the result of nego- statement, unclassified congressional tory statement of a conference committee. tiations between the House Permanent Se- direction, and a section-by-section The explanation comprises three parts: an lect Committee on Intelligence and the Sen- analysis of the legislative text. overview of the application of the annex to ate Select Committee on Intelligence. It rec- accompany this statement; unclassified con- onciles the differences between the commit- I ask unanimous consent that the gressional direction; and a section-by-sec- tees’ respective versions of the bill for the joint explanatory statement for the In- tion analysis of the legislative text. National Intelligence Program (NIP) and the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:55 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.021 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Homeland Security Intelligence Program Commercial Geospatial Intelligence Strategy look more at disaggregation, microsats, cube (HSIP) for Fiscal Year 2017. The Agreement The congressional intelligence committees sats, small sats, things that don’t have to go also makes recommendations for the Mili- applaud the National Geospatial-Intelligence from a large launch complex all the time, I tary Intelligence Program (MIP), and the In- Agency (NGA) for issuing its October 2015 think proliferating launch complexes is formation Systems Security Program Commercial Geospatial Intelligence probably going to be a natural outshoot of (ISSP), consistent with the National Defense (GEOINT) Strategy, which states a goal of this. I think it’s commercially viable, it may Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017, and fostering a ‘‘more diverse, resilient, agile, be a way for companies to get into the provides certain direction for these two pro- and responsive GEOINT program that pro- launch business who could not afford to get grams. vides seamless user access to the best mix of into it or don’t see a future in it and for The Agreement supersedes the classified commercial GEOINT . . . to fulfill National large national security space launches, but I annexes to the reports accompanying: H.R. System for Geospatial-Intelligence (NSG) think this has got to be part of the strategy 5077, as passed by the House on May 24, 2016; and Allied System for Geospatial-Intel- that this whole national team puts together H.R. 6393, as passed by the House on Novem- ligence (ASG) mission needs.’’ The commit- as we look to the future. ber 20, 2016; H.R. 6480, as passed by the House tees also find merit in the NGA’s ‘‘GEOINT Therefore, the Agreement directs the IC, in on December 8, 2016; S. 3017, as reported by Pathfinder’’ project, which seeks to maxi- partnership with the U.S. Air Force, to con- the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence mize the use of unclassified and commer- sider the role and contribution of spaceports on June 6, 2016; and S. 133, as reported by the cially available data sources that can be eas- or launch and range complexes to our na- Senate Select Committee on Intelligence on ily and rapidly shared with a variety of mili- tional security space launch capacity, and January 20, 2017. All references to the House- tary, United States and allied government, directs the Office of the Director of National passed and Senate-reported annexes are sole- and non-government customers, and sup- Intelligence, in consultation with the De- ly to identify the heritage of specific provi- ports the project’s continuation and expan- partment of Defense and the U.S. Air Force, sions. sion. to brief the congressional intelligence com- The classified Schedule of Authorizations The committees further commend the NGA mittees on their plans to utilize such facili- is incorporated into the bill pursuant to Sec- for pursuing new methods of intelligence col- ties within 90 days of enactment of this Act. tion 102. It has the status of law. The classi- lection and analysis to inform, complement, National Reconnaissance Office Workforce Opti- fied annex supplements and adds detail to and add to its support of warfighter require- mization Strategy clarify the authorization levels found in the ments by looking to emerging commercial The congressional intelligence committees bill and the classified Schedule of Authoriza- technology providers, including small sat- have had longstanding interest in, and sup- tions. The classified annex shall have the ellite companies, which hold the promise of port for, a permanent government cadre to same legal force as the report to accompany rapid technological innovation and poten- provide the National Reconnaissance Office the bill. tially significant future cost savings to the U.S. taxpayer. The committees further en- (NRO) with a stable, expert acquisition PART II: SELECT UNCLASSIFIED courage the Director of the NGA to ensure workforce. The committees applaud the sub- CONGRESSIONAL DIRECTION sufficient funding is available to acquire stantial progress that the NRO has made in Managing intelligence community personnel new, unclassified sources, including commer- the past year in this regard. The committees This Agreement by the congressional intel- cial satellite imagery providing unprece- have parallel interests in providing the IC ligence committees accepts the Senate’s rec- dented global persistence, as well as products with flexibility to manage a multi-sector ommendations that IC elements should and services that provide information and workforce and in continuing the reduction in build, develop, and maintain a workforce ap- context about changes relevant to geospatial the reliance on contractors. propriately balanced among its civilian, intelligence. The committees also encourage Therefore, the Agreement directs the NRO military and contractor workforce sectors to the NGA to pursue new business models, in- to conduct a workforce review to optimize meet the missions assigned to it in law and cluding commercial acquisition practices, to the mix between government civilians and by the president. The Agreement recognizes enable the NGA’s access to data, products, contractors and report to the committees that the size and shape of the IC’s multi-sec- and services in ways consistent with best with a strategy within 90 days of enactment tor workforce should be based on mission commercial practices. of this Act. needs, and encourages the IC to adjust its re- The committees fully support the NGA’s Guidance and reporting requirement regarding liance on contractors when appropriate, both course of action in partnering with the com- interactions between the intelligence com- as a matter of general policy and as a way to mercial GEOINT industry to meet future munity and entertainment industry. warfighter intelligence requirements, while conserve resources. The flexibility afforded The congressional intelligence committees recognizing the need to take appropriate in this provision should support this posi- believe that there are important, valid rea- steps to protect national security, and en- tion. In addition, section 103 provides an in- sons for elements of the IC to engage with courage the Director of the NGA and the crease in the number of civilian personnel the entertainment industry, among other Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence authorized in the Schedule of Authorizations things to ensure the correction of inaccura- to keep the committees informed of their for the purposes of such contractor conver- cies, demonstrate the IC’s commitment to progress in implementing this strategy. sions in the interim for the remainder of fis- transparency, and to ensure that the IC re- Therefore, this Agreement directs the De- cal year 2017. Nothing precludes the Congress cruits and retains highly qualified personnel partment of Defense (DoD), in building fu- from addressing the end strength for any ele- to the fullest extent possible. The commit- ment or office of the IC in the annual au- ture-year budgets, to ensure continued fund- ing is provided for implementation, through tees further believe that IC engagement with thorization bills. the entertainment industry should be con- Therefore, the committees direct that the at least Fiscal Year 2021, of the Commercial ducted in the most cost effective and delib- ODNI provide the congressional intelligence Geospatial Intelligence Strategy issued by erate fashion possible, while ensuring that committees briefings on the workforce ini- the NGA in October 2015. classified information is protected from un- tiative as directed in section 306, beginning Space Launch Facilities authorized disclosure. July 1, 2017, and each 120 days thereafter The congressional intelligence committees These engagements—some of which have until July 1, 2018, with benchmarks and mile- continue to believe it is critical to preserve been described in partially-declassified in- stones, for IC elements to manage a multi- a variety of launch range capabilities to sup- spector general reports—cost taxpayer dol- sector workforce without personnel ceilings port national security space missions. Space- lars, raise potential ethics concerns, increase starting in fiscal year 2019. The ODNI, in co- ports or launch and range complexes may the risk of disclosure of classified informa- ordination with the IC elements, shall estab- provide capabilities to reach mid-to-low or tion, and consume the time and attention of lish a common methodology for collecting polar-to-high inclination orbits. The com- IC personnel responsible for United States and reporting data, and include new exhibits mittees believe an important component of national security. Neither the production of in the annual congressional budget justifica- this effort may be state-owned and operated entertainment nor the self-promotion of IC tion books that display full-time equivalents spaceports that are commercially licensed entities are legitimate purposes for these en- (government civilians, core contractors, non- by the Federal Aviation Administration, gagements. core contractors, and military personnel), by which leverage non-federal public and pri- program, expenditure center and project. vate investments to bolster U.S. launch ca- Review of the National Intelligence University In the absence of authorized position ceil- pabilities. Additionally, the committees be- The National Intelligence University (NIU) ing levels, agencies will be bound to author- lieve that these facilities may be able to pro- has made significant progress in recent years ized and appropriated personal services fund- vide additional flexibility and resilience to in its transition from a defense intelligence ing levels. the Nation’s launch infrastructure, espe- college to a national intelligence university Further, the transfer of non-personal serv- cially as the nation considers concepts such that provides advanced education in a classi- ices funding in below-threshold reprogram- as the reconstitution of satellites to address fied format. Such advanced education is in- ming is a concern to the committees. There- the growing foreign counterspace threat. The tegral to making intelligence a profession fore, the committees direct agencies to pro- committees note recent testimony by the with recognized standards for performance vide a written notification to the commit- Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force, General and ethics and fostering an integrated IC tees of any realignment and/or reprogram- Mark Welsh, who stated, workforce. While progress has been signifi- ming of funding between personal services As we look at this space enterprise and cant since the Director of National Intel- and non-personal services. how we do it differently in the future, as we ligence (DNI) and Secretary of Defense

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:28 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.008 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2749 agreed to redesignate Defense Intelligence The congressional intelligence committees no later than 180 days after the enactment of Agency’s (DIA) National Defense Intel- are concerned that despite the utility of this Act, to provide a joint briefing to the ligence College as NIU in 2011, the institu- these virtual collaboration tools, DoD has congressional intelligence committees on tion must continue to adapt to functioning not taken action to reduce the number of in- the mental health screenings and related as a university with a robust research agen- telligence personnel stationed in high cost of services that these agencies offer employees, da, and to serving the entire IC, not just ele- living areas. These costs can exceed $65,000 both before and after they deploy to combat ments of DoD. per person, per year in annual cost of living zones. Such briefing shall include a descrip- Fiscal years 2017 and 2018 are of great sig- allowances compared to the continental tion of: nificance for NIU, as it moves its principal United States (CONUS) expenses. The addi- (1) Existing services available; facility to the IC Campus at Bethesda, com- tional costs associated with stationing intel- (2) Agency resources for and analysis of pletes activities associated with its 2018 de- ligence personnel in high-cost overseas loca- these services, including the frequency of use cennial regional accreditation reaffirmation, tions detract from other critical intelligence by employees compared to the total number and receives a new president. The congres- priorities. The committees are further con- returning from deployment; and sional intelligence committees believe that cerned that DoD does not adequately ac- (3) How agencies with deployed civilian these developments position NIU to make count for the long-run expense of high costs employees are sharing best practices and further progress in its vision to become the of living when selecting locations for intel- leveraging services or resources outside their center of academic life for the IC. ligence facilities. agencies. To guide these next steps, the Agreement Therefore, the Agreement directs the DIA Review of the Office of the Director of National directs DIA, in coordination with ODNI and to evaluate alternate mechanisms for staff- Intelligence the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense ing overseas Combatant Command intel- It has been more than ten years since the for Intelligence, to, no later than 30 days ligence centers, particularly those that are Congress established the position of the Di- after enactment of this Act, select a five not co-located with Combatant Command rector of National Intelligence (DNI) in the member, external, and independent panel to headquarters, and to identify cost-savings Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Preven- conduct a review of NIU. The panel shall sub- opportunities by shifting personnel to lower tion Act of 2004, building on its predecessor, mit a report detailing the results of such re- cost locations, including in the continental the Director of Central Intelligence. Given view to the congressional intelligence and United States. this experience and the evolving security en- defense committees within 180 days of enact- Defense Intelligence Agency education opportu- vironment, the committees believe it appro- ment of this Act. The panel should be com- nities priate to review the DNI’s roles, missions posed of recognized academics, personnel DIA presently allows DIA employees to re- and functions and adapt its authorities, or- from other DoD joint professional military ceive pay for a single year only while attend- ganization and resources as needed. education institutions, national security ex- ing certain graduate degree programs on a Therefore, the Agreement directs the perts, and at least one member of NIU’s full-time basis. Employees may pursue such President to form an independent, external Board of Visitors. opportunities at the National Intelligence panel of at least five individuals with signifi- This review and the resulting report shall, University and similar institutions; and, in cant intelligence and national security ex- among other things, assess: certain circumstances, also at public and pertise to review ODNI’s roles, missions and (1) Methods for ensuring a student body private civilian universities. However, the functions and make recommendations, as that is more representative of all IC ele- one-year limit discourages DIA personnel needed, regarding its authorities, organiza- ments; from pursuing multi-year graduate degree tion and resources. The panel shall: (1) Evaluate ODNI’s ability to fulfill the re- (2) Incentives for IC elements to send per- programs. Expanding DIA’s program to allow sponsibilities assigned to it in law given its sonnel to NIU to earn a degree or certificate, highly qualified DIA employees to pursue current scope and structure; to include designating attendance at NIU as multi-year graduate degree programs from positions reimbursable by ODNI and requir- (2) Assess whether any roles and respon- accredited civilian universities would fur- sibilities currently assigned to the DNI could ing IC elements to employ the workforce ther improve retention, recruitment, and concept of ‘‘float’’ for personnel enrolled in be more effectively or efficiently executed by foster diversity of thought at DIA. other IC components or government agencies higher-education programs; Therefore, the Agreement directs DIA, no outside the IC; (3) How certificate programs align with later than 180 days after the enactment of NIU’s unique value as an institution of ad- (3) Analyze the personnel, funding, and au- this Act, to: thorities required for each component of vanced intelligence education; (1) Provide for and fund a program that al- ODNI to perform each of its assigned respon- (4) Methods to enhance NIU’s research pro- lows for DIA employees to attend civilian gram, to include publication of a journal, sibilities; graduate degree programs for up to two (4) Evaluate the organizational structure hosting of conferences and other collabo- years each, based on the standard length of rative fora, and more formalized relation- of ODNI; the relevant program, provided that: (5) Review the size, role, purpose and func- ships with intelligence studies scholars; (a) Where DIA deems appropriate, employ- (5) Whether and how educational compo- tion of ODNI’s mission centers; ees may pursue academic programs extend- (6) Assess the value of the national intel- nents of other IC elements could provide edu- ing beyond two years. Consistent with cur- ligence manager construct; cational offerings as part of the NIU cur- rent practices, the program should be made (7) Review the size and mix of the ODNI riculum; available to at least five employees each workforce—to include the ratio between (6) Potential advantages and risks associ- year, with each employee receiving a full- cadre and detailees, the balance between ated with alternative governance models for time salary while participating in the pro- government and contractors, and grade NIU, to include moving it under the auspices gram; and structure—to perform its roles, missions and of ODNI; and (b) Each DIA participant shall be subject functions; and (7) The feasibility and resource constraints to any program approvals, service obliga- (8) Make recommendations regarding the of NIU tailoring degree offerings to meet the tions, repayment obligations, and other re- above. needs of IC personnel at different stages in quirements pertaining to academic pro- The Agreement directs the President, no their careers, similar to DoD’s joint profes- grams, as prescribed by applicable laws and later than 30 days after the enactment of sional military education model. policies. this Act, to select the individuals who will Cost of living consideration (2) Brief the congressional intelligence serve on the external panel and notify the The congressional intelligence committees committees on the status of the program’s congressional intelligence committees of are concerned with the high cost of living for implementation. such selection. military, civilian, and contractor personnel Mental health prevalence In addition, the Agreement directs the at overseas Combatant Command intel- The congressional intelligence committees panel, no later than 180 days after the enact- ligence centers. Although the committees are committed to supporting the men and ment of this Act, to provide a report on this recognize the benefits of co-locating intel- women of the IC, who bravely risk their lives review to the congressional intelligence ligence analysts with the operational com- serving their country as civilians in conflict committees. This report shall be unclassi- mander, the intelligence centers for both zones and other dangerous locations around fied, but may contain a classified annex. The U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and the world. These individuals often serve next Agreement further directs ODNI to reim- U.S Africa Command (USAFRICOM) are lo- to their military counterparts in areas of ac- burse the Executive Office of the President cated over 600 miles from their Combatant tive hostilities. As such, they are often ex- for any costs associated with the review. Command headquarters. Combatant Com- posed to many of the emotional stresses gen- Improving pre-publication review manders based in the United States regu- erally associated with a tour of duty abroad. The congressional intelligence committees larly communicate with forward deployed The committees believe there are defi- are concerned that current and former IC units, and the USEUCOM and USAFRICOM ciencies and inconsistencies in the pre- and personnel have published written material intelligence centers have developed mecha- post-deployment mental health and wellness without completing mandatory pre-publica- nisms to effectively employ various tele- services available to civilian employees. tion review procedures or have rejected conferencing and virtual communication Therefore, the Agreement directs the Na- changes required by the review process, re- tools to ensure collaboration across large tional Security Agency (NSA), NGA, the sulting in the publication of classified infor- distances. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and DIA, mation. The committees are particularly

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.008 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2750 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 troubled by press reports suggesting that of- posing pre-publication review obligations re- training for military intelligence analysts ficials are unaware of the existence or scope flect the policy described above. must be prioritized in the pre-deployment of pre-publication review requirements. Student loan debt report readiness cycle to ensure that those using The committees are also aware of the per- this intelligence tool can effectively utilize IC components need to be able to recruit ception that the pre-publication review proc- its capabilities. talented young professionals. However, the ess can be unfair, untimely, and unduly oner- The Army has fielded over 95 percent of soaring cost of college and post-graduate ous—and that these burdens may be at least DCGS-A Increment 1 systems, with mixed re- education in the United States is causing partially responsible for some individuals sults and often negative feedback from the many young people to forgo public service in ‘‘opting out’’ of the mandatory review proc- users. The Army is in the process of fielding favor of career opportunities with more com- ess. The committees further understand that Increment 1, Release 2, which will address petitive pay or loan forgiveness benefits. IC agencies’ pre-publication review mecha- many of the initial concerns and deficiencies Therefore, the Agreement directs ODNI, no nisms vary, and that there is no binding, IC- of Increment 1. The committees remain con- later than 180 days after the enactment of wide guidance on the subject. cerned that the Army has not sufficiently this Act, to provide a report to the congres- The committees believe that all IC per- planned for user training in support of the sional intelligence committees on programs sonnel must be made aware of pre-publica- release of Increment 1, Release 2 to oper- that seek to help IC personnel manage stu- tion review requirements and that the re- ational users. dent loan debt. The report shall include de- Therefore, the congressional intelligence view process must yield timely, reasoned, tails about each IC element’s program, in- committees request that the Army, no later and impartial decisions that are subject to cluding loan forgiveness, loan repayment, than 90 days after the enactment of this Act, appeal. The committees also believe that ef- and financial counseling programs; efforts to submit a plan to the congressional intel- ficiencies can be identified by limiting the inform prospective and current employees ligence and defense committees on how the information subject to pre-publication re- about such programs; and the number of em- Army will fully incorporate Distributed view, to the fullest extent possible, to only ployees who use such programs. The report Common Ground/Surface System-Army those materials that might reasonably con- shall also include an analysis of the benefits (DCGS-A) training into the readiness cycle tain or be derived from classified informa- and drawbacks of creating new programs and for Army personnel. The plan should specifi- tion obtained during the course of an indi- expanding existing programs, and shall iden- cally address any lessons learned from the vidual’s association with the IC. In short, tify any barriers to the establishment of IC- fielding of DCGS-A Increment 1 and any on- the pre-publication review process should be wide programs. going corrective actions to improve the roll- improved to better incentivize compliance out of Increment 1, Release 2. Workforce development partnership and to ensure that personnel fulfill their Common controller for unmanned aircraft sys- commitments. The congressional intelligence committees tems Therefore, the Agreement directs that, no have long promoted novel recruiting, hiring, later than 180 days after the enactment of and retention practices, especially with re- The congressional intelligence committees support the Army’s efforts to develop a com- this Act, the DNI shall issue an IC-wide pol- spect to highly expert, highly sought-after mon controller for the RQ–7A/B Shadow and icy regarding pre-publication review. The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math the RQ–11B Raven tactical unmanned aerial DNI shall transmit this policy to the con- (STEM) students and professionals. Despite vehicles. However, the committees are con- gressional intelligence committees concur- these efforts, the IC continues to struggle cerned that the Army is not collaborating rently with its issuance. The policy should with meeting STEM recruitment, hiring, and with the Marine Corps on similar efforts to require each IC agency to develop and main- retention goals inside the IC. develop a ground controller for the Marine tain a pre-publication policy that contains, The committees are therefore encouraged Corps family of tactical unmanned aerial at a minimum, the following elements: to learn that the IC is considering new and systems (UAS), including the RQ–11B Raven, (1) Identification of the individuals subject creative practices in this regard. For exam- the RQ–12A Wasp, and the RQ–20A Puma. to pre-publication review requirements ple, the committees were intrigued by the Therefore, the Agreement requests that (‘‘covered individuals’’); Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s the Army and the Marine Corps Intelligence (2) Guidance on the types of information (PNNL) budding Workforce Development Activity (MCIA), no later than 90 days after that must be submitted for pre-publication Partnership with the CIA. Partnerships like the enactment of this Act, jointly submit a review, including works (a) unrelated to an this may allow IC agencies to leverage report to the congressional intelligence and individual’s IC employment; or (b) published PNNL’s robust employee recruiting network defense committees on the feasibility of de- in cooperation with a third party, e.g.— and seek out STEM students who might not veloping a common controller for all Brigade (a) Authored jointly by covered individuals otherwise consider IC employment. and Below unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and third parties; Similarly, to address concerns that poten- airframes, as well as U.S. Marine Corps small (b) Authored by covered individuals but tial hires will accept other job offers while unit UAS. The report should address the po- published under the name of a third party; or awaiting clearances, NGA has a program to tential performance and operational benefits (c) Authored by a third party but with sub- allow interim hires to work on unclassified of a common controller, anticipated develop- stantial input from covered individuals. projects until clearances are adjudicated. In ment costs, and anticipated life-cycle cost (3) Guidance on a process by which covered addition, several IC agencies have instituted savings of a common controller. individuals can participate in pre-publica- a unique pay scale for their junior STEM Review of dual-hatting relationship tion reviews, and communicate openly and workforce. The committees recognize the frequently with reviewers; The congressional intelligence committees benefits of these initiatives, and believes support further evaluation of the dual- (4) Requirements for timely responses, as that such efforts could have wider applica- well as reasoned edits and decisions by re- hatting of a single individual as both Com- bility across the IC. mander of U.S. Cyber Command viewers; Therefore, the Agreement directs the DNI (5) Requirements for a prompt and trans- (USCYBERCOM) and Director of the Na- Chief Human Capital Officer, no later than tional Security Agency (DIRNSA). parent appeal process; 180 days after the enactment of this Act, to (6) Guidelines for the assertion of inter- Therefore, the Agreement directs the Sec- provide to the congressional intelligence retary of Defense, no later than 90 days after agency equities in pre-publication review; committees an interagency briefing on new (7) A summary of the lawful measures each the enactment of this Act, to provide to the approaches, including outreach and adver- agency may take to enforce its policy, to in- congressional intelligence and defense com- tising, the IC is considering or conducting to clude civil and criminal referrals; and mittees a briefing that reviews and provides attract a diverse, robust Science, Tech- (8) A description of procedures for post- an assessment of the dual-hatting of nology, Engineering, and Math and informa- publication review of documents that are al- DIRNSA and Commander, USCYBERCOM. tion technology workforce to meet the in- leged or determined to reveal classified in- This briefing should address: creasing demands in the IC. (1) Roles and responsibilities, including in- formation but were not submitted for pre- telligence authorities, of USCYBERCOM and publication review. Distributed Common Ground/Surface System- Army NSA; Additionally, the Agreement directs ODNI, (2) Assessment of the current impact of the no later than 180 days after the enactment of The congressional intelligence committees dual-hatting relationship, including advan- this Act, to provide to the congressional in- believe the Distributed Common Ground/Sur- tages and disadvantages; telligence committees a report on the ade- face System-Army (DCGS–A) provides oper- (3) Plans and recommendations on courses quacy of IC information technology efforts ational and tactical commanders with en- of action that would be necessary to end the to improve and expedite pre-publication re- hanced, state-of-the-art intelligence, surveil- dual-hatting of DIRNSA and Commander, view processes, and the resources needed to lance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tasking, USCYBERCOM, which satisfy Section 1642 of ensure that IC elements can meet this direc- processing, exploitation, and dissemination the conference report accompanying S. 2943, tion. capabilities and connectivity to the defense the National Defense Authorization Act for The Agreement further directs the DNI, no intelligence information enterprise. DCGS–A Fiscal Year 2017; later than 270 days after the enactment of is a critical tool for enabling military intel- (4) Suggested timelines for carrying out this Act, to certify to the congressional in- ligence warfighters to process, fuse, and ex- such courses of action; telligence committees that IC elements’ pre- ploit data. In the past, the Army has strug- (5) Recommendations for any changes in publication review policies, non-disclosure gled to keep pace for pre-deployment and in- law that would be required by the end of agreements, and any other agreements im- theater training for DCGS–A. However, dual-batting; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.009 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2751 (6) Any additional topics as identified by to facilitate greater information sharing of in turn requires a strong academic back- the intelligence and defense committees. cyber threat indicators and defensive meas- ground. NSA and DHS cosponsor the Centers The congressional intelligence committees ures with the Department of Homeland Secu- of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber De- further believe that a larger organizational rity (DHS) at the unclassified level. fense program, which includes an emphasis review of NSA should be conducted with re- With the recent enactment of the Cyberse- on basic cybersecurity. Nevertheless, even spect to the eventual termination of the curity Act of 2015, which encourages greater some CAE-designated institutions lack cy- dual-hatting relationship. The congressional information sharing between private sector bersecurity course prerequisites in their intelligence committees seek to promote the stakeholders, as well as with government en- computer science curricula. efficient and effective execution of NSA’s na- tities, the committees believe the next step Therefore, the Agreement directs ODNI, no tional intelligence mission. Specifically, the is to ensure the entire IC is working to dis- later than 180 days after the enactment of congressional intelligence committees be- seminate timely, actionable information to this Act, to submit to the congressional in- lieve that the organization of NSA should be private sector stakeholders so they can bet- telligence committees a report on improving examined to account for the evolution of its ter protect their information technology cybersecurity training within NIP-funded mission since its establishment, the current networks. The vast majority of U.S. net- undergraduate and graduate computer structure of the intelligence community, and works reside in the private sector, and it is science programs. The report should specifi- the fact that the NSA is predominantly fund- good governance to ensure that those net- cally address: ed through the NIP. works are safe and secure for the general (1) The potential advantages and disadvan- Therefore, the Agreement further directs public. tages of conditioning an institution’s receipt the DNI, no later than 120 days after the en- The committees appreciate that the IC has of such funds on its computer science pro- actment of this Act, to conduct an assess- begun efforts to increase unclassified cyber gram’s requiring cybersecurity as a pre- ment and provide a briefing to the congres- threat sharing. Because an increase in the condition to graduation; sional intelligence committees on options to quantity of reporting does not necessarily (2) How Centers of Academic Excellence better align the structure, budgetary proce- indicate effectiveness or usefulness, this programs might bolster cybersecurity edu- dures, and oversight of NSA with its national Committee continues to monitor the quality cational requirements; and intelligence mission in the event of a termi- of the information distributed. (3) Recommendations to support the goal nation of the dual-batting relationship. This Therefore, the Agreement directs ODNI, no of ensuring that federally-funded computer briefing should include: later than 120 days after the enactment of science programs properly equip students to (1) An assessment of the feasibility of this Act, to brief the congressional intel- confront future cybersecurity challenges. transitioning NSA to civilian leadership ap- ligence committees on IC-wide efforts to PART III: SECTION-BY-SECTION ANALYSIS AND pointed by the DNI in lieu of military leader- share more information with the Depart- EXPLANATION OF LEGISLATIVE TEXT ship appointed by the Secretary of Defense; ment of Homeland Security (DHS) for fur- The following is a section-by-section anal- (2) How NSA could be organizationally sep- ther dissemination to the private sector. ysis and explanation of the Intelligence Au- arated from DoD if USCYBERCOM were ele- This briefing shall specifically address types thorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017. vated to become a unified combatant com- of information shared, metrics on output, TITLE I—INTELLIGENCE ACTIVITIES mand; and tabulation of low output producing agencies, Section 101. Authorization of appropriations (3) Any challenges, such as those requiring recommendations on how low output agen- changes in law, associated with such a sepa- cies can increase sharing, timeliness of infor- Section 101 lists the United States Govern- ration. mation shared, and average total time it ment departments, agencies, and other ele- ments for which the Act authorizes appro- Acquisition security improvement takes for information to transit the system. The Agreement also directs ODNI, in co- priations for intelligence and intelligence-re- The congressional intelligence committees ordination with the DHS Office of Intel- lated activities for Fiscal Year 2017. remain concerned about supply chain and cy- ligence and Analysis (I&A), to conduct a sur- Section 102. Classified Schedule of Authoriza- bersecurity vulnerabilities in the IC. The vey of government and private sector par- tions committees believe the IC should implement ticipants of the National Cybersecurity and a more comprehensive approach to address Section 102 provides that the details of the Communications Integration Center these vulnerabilities, particularly during the amounts authorized to be appropriated for (NCCIC). The survey shall be anonymous, acquisition process. However, ICD 801, the IC intelligence and intelligence-related activi- provide an accurate assessment of the useful- guideline governing the acquisition process, ties and the applicable personnel levels by ness and timeliness of the data received, and is outdated and must be revised to reflect program for Fiscal Year 2017 are contained in determine if customers are satisfied with in- current risks. In particular, despite issuance the classified Schedule of Authorizations and telligence briefings on threat actors impact- of ICD 731, Supply Chain Risk Management, in that the classified Schedule of Authoriza- ing their specific industry. The Agreement 2013, ICD 801 has not been updated to reflect tions shall be made available to the Commit- further directs ODNI, no later than one year this policy nor does it include consideration tees on Appropriations of the Senate and after the enactment of this Act, to provide of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and mitiga- House of Representatives and to the Presi- to the congressional intelligence and home- tion. dent. land security committees an unclassified re- Therefore, the Agreement directs ODNI, no Section 103. Personnel ceiling adjustments port detailing the results of this survey. later than 180 days after the enactment of Section 103 provides that the DNI may au- this Act, to review and consider amendments Department of Homeland Security utilization of thorize employment of civilian personnel in to Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) National Labs expertise Fiscal Year 2017 in excess of the number of 801 to better reflect and anticipate supply The congressional intelligence committees authorized positions by an amount not ex- chain and cybersecurity risks and threats, as believe that the Department of Energy ceeding three percent of the total limit ap- well as to outline policies to mitigate both (DOE) National Labs represent a unique and plicable to each IC element under Section risks and threats. In particular, the review invaluable resource for the government and 102, and ten percent of the number of civilian should examine whether to: the IC in particular. personnel authorized under such schedule for (1) Expand risk management criteria in the Therefore, the Agreement directs, no later the purposes of contractor conversions. The acquisition process to include cyber and sup- than 180 days after the enactment of this DNI may do so only if necessary to the per- ply chain threats; Act, DHS I&A, in coordination with DOE Of- formance of important intelligence func- (2) Require counterintelligence and secu- fice of Intelligence and Counterintelligence tions. rity assessments as part of the acquisition (DOE–IN), to provide to the congressional in- Section 104. Intelligence Community Manage- and procurement process; telligence committees a report on the cur- ment Account (3) Propose and adopt new education re- rent utilization of Department of Energy Section 104 authorizes appropriations for quirements for acquisition professionals on (DOE) National Labs expertise by DHS I&A. the Intelligence Community Management cyber and supply chain threats; and This report should address opportunities to Account (ICMA) of the DNI and sets the au- (4) Factor in the cost of cyber and supply increase DHS I&A’s utilization of cybersecu- thorized personnel levels for the elements chain security. rity expertise of the National Labs as well as within the ICMA for Fiscal Year 2017. The Agreement further directs ODNI, no the budgetary implications of taking advan- later than 210 days after the enactment of tage of these potential opportunities. TITLE II—CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY RETIREMENT AND DIS- this Act, to provide to the congressional in- Cybersecurity courses for Centers of Academic ABILITY SYSTEM telligence committees a report describing Excellence Section 201. Authorization of appropriations the review, including ODNI’s process for con- The congressional intelligence committees sidering amendments to ICD 801, and specifi- are concerned by a recent analysis from a se- Section 201 authorizes appropriations in cally addressing ODNI’s analysis and conclu- curity firm, which determined that not one the amount of $514,000,000 for Fiscal Year sions with respect to paragraphs (1) through of the nation’s leading undergraduate com- 2017 for the Central Intelligence Agency Re- (4) above. puter science programs requires students to tirement and Disability Fund. Cyber information sharing and customer feed- take a cybersecurity course before grad- TITLE III—GENERAL INTELLIGENCE back uating. Cybersecurity depends on IC profes- COMMUNITY MATTERS The congressional intelligence committees sionals having a strong understanding of the Section 301. Restriction on conduct of in- commend NSA’s new policies and procedures cyber threat and how to mitigate it—which telligence activities.

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Increase in employee compensation would charge for a request for information Section 308 requires the DNI to issue public and benefits authorized by law. under the Freedom of Information Act guidance regarding engagements by ele- (FOIA). It also permits agency heads to Section 302 provides that funds authorized ments of the Intelligence Community with waive processing fees for declassification re- to be appropriated by the Act for salary, pay, entertainment industry entities. The guid- views in the same manner as for FOIA. retirement, and other benefits for federal ance will include DNI providing an annual employees may be increased by such addi- report to the congressional intelligence com- TITLE IV—MATTERS RELATING TO ELE- tional or supplemental amounts as may be mittees detailing interactions between the MENTS OF THE INTELLIGENCE COMMU- necessary for increases in compensation or IC and the entertainment industry. Section NITY benefits authorized by law. 308 also requires the report to include a de- Subtitle A—Office of the Director of Section 303. Support to nonprofit organizations scription of the nature, duration, costs, ben- National Intelligence assisting intelligence community employees. efits, and results of each engagement, as well Section 401. Designation of the Director of the Section 303 permits the DNI to engage in as a determination that each engagement did National Counterintelligence and Security fundraising in an official capacity for the not result in a disclosure of classified infor- Center. benefit of nonprofit organizations that pro- mation and whether any information was de- Section 401 renames the National Counter- vide support to surviving family members of classified for the disclosure. Section 308 fur- intelligence Executive as the ‘‘National a deceased employee of an element of the IC ther requires that before an IC element may Counterintelligence and Security Center,’’ or otherwise provide support for the welfare, engage with the entertainment industry, the with conforming amendments. education, or recreation of IC employees, head of that element must approve the pro- Section 402. Analyses and impact statements by former employees, or their family members. posed engagement. Contractual relationships Director of National Intelligence regarding Section 303 requires the DNI to issue regula- for professional services and technical exper- proposed investment into the United States. tise are exempt from these reporting require- tions ensuring that the fundraising author- Section 402 directs the DNI to submit to ments. ity is exercised consistent with all relevant the congressional intelligence committees, ethical limitations and principles. Section Section 309. Protections for independent inspec- after the completion of a review or an inves- 303 further requires that the DNI and the Di- tors general of elements of the intelligence tigation of any proposed investment into the rector of the CIA notify the congressional in- community. United States, any analytic materials pre- telligence committees within seven days Section 309 requires the ODNI to develop pared by the DNI. This requirement includes, after they engage in such fundraising. and implement a uniform policy for each but is not limited to, national security Section 304. Promotion of science, technology, identified Inspector General (IG) office in the threat assessments provided to the Com- engineering, and mathematics education in IC to better ensure their independence. The mittee on Foreign Investment in the United the intelligence community. provision specifies elements to be incor- States (CFIUS) in connection with national Section 304 requires the DNI to submit a porated in such a policy including (a) guid- security reviews and investigations con- five-year investment strategy for outreach ance regarding conflicts of interest, (b) ducted by CFIUS pursuant to Section 721(b) and recruiting efforts in the fields of science, standards to ensure independence, and (c) a of the Defense Production Act of 1950 (50 technology, engineering, and mathematics waiver provision. Section 309 further pro- U.S.C. § 4565). This section is not intended to (STEM), to include cybersecurity and com- hibits the DNI from requiring an employee of limit the ability of the DNI to transmit sup- puter literacy. Section 304 further requires an OIG to rotate to a position in the element plementary materials to the congressional elements of the IC to submit STEM invest- for which such office conducts oversight. intelligence committees along with the ment plans supporting this strategy for each threat assessments. Section 310. Congressional oversight of policy di- of the fiscal years 2018 through 2022, along Section 402 also directs the DNI to provide rectives and guidance. with the materials justifying the budget re- the committees with impact statements quest of each element for these STEM re- Section 310 requires the DNI to submit to when the DNI determines a proposed invest- cruiting and outreach activities. the congressional intelligence committees ment into the United States will have an Section 305. Retention of employees of the intel- notifications and copies of any classified or operational impact on the IC. ligence community who have science, tech- unclassified Presidential Policy Directive, Section 403. Assistance for governmental entities nology, engineering, or mathematics exper- Presidential Policy Guidance, or other simi- and private entities in recognizing online tise. lar policy document issued by the President violent extremist content which assigns tasks, roles, or responsibilities Section 305 authorizes a new payscale to Section 403 requires the DNI to publish on to the IC, within the specified timeframes. permit salary increases for employees in the a publicly available Internet website a list of Section 310 further requires the Director to IC with STEM backgrounds. Section 305 also all logos, symbols, insignia, and other mark- notify the congressional intelligence com- requires notifications to individual employ- ings commonly associated with, or adopted mittees of guidance to implement such poli- ees if a position is removed from this new by, State Department-designated foreign ter- cies. payscale. Section 305 further requires the rorist organizations. head of each IC element to submit to the Section 311. Notification of memoranda of un- Subtitle B—Central Intelligence Agency derstanding. congressional intelligence committees a re- Section 411. Enhanced death benefits for per- port on the new rates of pay and number of Section 311 requires the head of each ele- sonnel of the Central Intelligence Agency. positions authorized under this payscale. ment of the IC to submit to the congres- Section 411 authorizes the Director of the Section 306. Management of intelligence commu- sional intelligence committees copies of each CIA to pay death benefits substantially simi- nity personnel memorandum of understanding or other lar to those authorized for members of the Section 306 prohibits the Congress’s use of agreement regarding significant operational Foreign Service, and requires the Director to government personnel ceilings in the man- activities or policy entered into between or submit implementing regulations to the con- agement of the IC workforce starting in Fis- among such element and any other entity or gressional intelligence committees. entities of the federal government within cal Year 2019. Section 306 requires the DNI to Section 412. Pay and retirement authorities of specified timeframes. provide briefings on the IC’s initiative to the Inspector General of the Central Intel- Section 311 does not require an IC element maintain both employees and contractors ligence Agency. to submit to the congressional intelligence within the IC, as well as both a briefing and Section 412 amends the Central Intel- a report on the methodology, cost analysis committees any memorandum or agreement that is solely administrative in nature, in- ligence Agency Act of 1949 to authorize the tool, and implementation plans. Section 306 IG of the CIA to consider certain positions as further requires the IC IG to provide a writ- cluding a memorandum or agreement regard- ing joint duty or other routine personnel as- law enforcement officers for purposes of cal- ten report on the accuracy of IC workforce culating retirement eligibility and entitle- data. This section will align the IC’s man- signments. An IC element also may redact any personally identifiable information from ments under chapters 83 and 84 of title 5, agement of personnel consistent with the United States Code, if such officer or em- practices of the Department of Defense and a memorandum or agreement which must be submitted to the intelligence committees. ployee is appointed to a position with re- other federal agencies. sponsibility for investigating suspected of- Section 307. Modifications to certain require- Section 312. Technical correction to Executive fenses against the criminal laws of the ments for construction of facilities Schedule United States. Section 412 may not be con- Section 307 clarifies that the requirement Section 312 contains a technical correction strued to confer on the IG of the CIA, or any to notify the congressional intelligence com- regarding the annual rate of basic pay for other officer or employee of the CIA, any po- mittees of improvement projects with an es- the Director of the National Counter Pro- lice or law enforcement or internal security timated cost greater than $1,000,000 for facili- liferation Center. functions or authorities.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:34 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.011 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2753 Subtitle C—Other Elements the Open Skies Treaty contribute to the ture required in the Intelligence Authoriza- Section 421. Enhancing the technical workforce warfighting doctrine, a counterintelligence tion Act for Fiscal Year 2016. Section 605 re- for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. analysis as to the Russian Federation’s capa- quires the DNI, in consultation with the Sec- Section 421 requires the Federal Bureau of bilities, and a list of the covered parties that retary of Defense, to submit a plan to func- Investigation (FBI) to produce a comprehen- have been updated with this information. tionally integrate the IC’s governance, oper- sive strategic workforce report to dem- TITLE VI—REPORTS AND OTHER ations, analysis, collection, policy, and ac- onstrate progress in expanding initiatives to MATTERS quisition activities related to space and effectively integrate information technology Section 601. Declassification review of informa- counterspace. The congressional intelligence expertise in the investigative process. Sec- tion on Guantanamo detainees and mitiga- committees believe the current fragmented tion 421 further requires the report to in- tion measures taken to monitor the individ- arrangement across the IC does not provide clude: (1) progress on training, recruitment, uals and prevent future attacks. sufficient coherence to meet the threat, fos- ters duplication, hinders integrated congres- and retention of cyber-related personnel; (2) Section 601 requires the DNI to complete a an assessment of whether FBI officers with sional oversight, and impedes effective align- declassification review of intelligence re- ment with the Department of Defense space these skill sets are fully integrated in the ports prepared by the National Counterter- FBI’s workforce; (3) the FBI’s collaboration activities. Section 605 also requires the DNI rorism Center (NCTC) on the past terrorist to submit a workforce plan for space and with the private sector on cyber issues; and activities of each Guantanamo detainee, for (4) an assessment of the utility of reinsti- counterspace operations, policy, and acquisi- a detainee’s Periodic Review Board (PRB) tion. Section 605 further requires the Direc- tuting and leveraging the FBI Director’s Ad- sessions, transfer, or release from Guanta- visory Board. tor of the NRO and the Commander of U.S. namo. To the extent a transfer or release Strategic Command to submit a concept of Section 422. Plan on assumption of certain preceded the PRB’s establishment, or the operations and requirements documents for weather missions by the National Recon- NCTC’s preparation of intelligence reports, the Joint Interagency Combined Space Oper- naissance Office Section 601 requires the DNI to conduct a de- ations Center, and to conduct quarterly up- Section 422 requires the Director of the classification review of intelligence reports date briefings. NRO to develop a plan to carry out certain containing the same or similar information as the intelligence reports prepared by the Section 606. Advances in life sciences and bio- space-based environmental monitoring mis- technology. sions currently performed by the Air Force. NCTC for PRB sessions, transfers, or re- It also authorizes certain pre-acquisition ac- leases. The congressional intelligence committees tivities and directs that an independent cost Section 601 further requires the President recognize the rapid advancements in the life estimate be submitted to the congressional to make any declassified intelligence reports sciences and biotechnology and firmly be- intelligence and defense committees. The Di- publicly available, including unclassified lieves that biology in the twenty-first cen- rector of NRO may waive the requirement of summaries of measures being taken by the tury will transform the world as physics did Section 422 if the Under Secretary of Defense transferee countries to monitor the indi- in the twentieth century. The potential risks for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, vidual and prevent future terrorist activi- associated with these advancements are less and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of ties. Section 601 requires the DNI to submit clear. The posture of the IC to follow and Staff, jointly submit a certification to the to the congressional intelligence committees predict this rapidly changing landscape is a congressional intelligence and defense com- a report setting forth the results of the de- matter of concern recognizing the global dif- mittees. classification review, including a description fusion and dual-use nature of life sciences of covered reports that were not declassified. and biotechnology along with the dispersed TITLE V—MATTERS RELATING TO Section 601 also sets the schedule for such re- responsibility of the life sciences related FOREIGN COUNTRIES views and further defines past terrorist ac- issues across several National Intelligence Section 501. Committee to counter active meas- tivities to include terrorist organization af- Officer portfolios. ures by the Russian Federation to exert cov- filiations, terrorist training, role in terrorist Section 606 requires the DNI to brief the ert influence over peoples and governments. attacks, responsibility for the death of congressional intelligence committees and Nothing in this section shall authorize the United States citizens or members of the the congressional defense committees on a Committee to take action with regard to ac- Armed Forces, any admission thereof, and a proposed plan and actions to monitor ad- tivities protected by the First Amendment. description of the intelligence supporting vances in life sciences and biotechnology to Section 501 requires the President to estab- the past terrorist activities, including cor- be carried out by the DNI. The Director’s lish an interagency committee to counter roboration, confidence level, and any dissent plan should include, first, a description of active measures by the Russian Federation or reassessment by the IC. the IC’s approach to leverage the organic life that constitute Russian actions to exert cov- Section 602. Cyber Center for Education and In- science and biotechnology expertise both ert influence over peoples and governments. novation Home of the National Cryptologic within and outside the Intelligence Commu- Section 502. Limitation on travel of accredited Museum. nity; second, an assessment of the current diplomats of the Russian Federation in the life sciences and biotechnology portfolio, the Section 602 amends 10 U.S.C. § 449 to enable risks of genetic editing technologies, and the United States from their diplomatic post. the establishment of a Cyber Center for Edu- Section 502 requires the Secretary of State, implications of these advances on future bio- cation and Innovation-Home of the National defense requirements; and, third, an analysis in coordination with the Director of the FBI Cryptologic Museum (the ‘‘Center’’). Section and the DNI, to establish an advance notifi- of organizational requirements and respon- 602 also establishes in the Treasury a fund sibilities to include potentially creating new cation regime governing all Russian Federa- for the benefit and operation of the Center. tion accredited diplomatic and consular per- positions. Section 606 further requires the Section 603. Report on national security sys- DNI to submit a written report and provide sonnel in the United States, as well as to tems. take action to secure compliance and ad- a briefing to the congressional intelligence dress noncompliance with the notification Section 603 requires the Director of the Na- committees and the congressional defense requirement. Section 502 also requires the tional Security Agency, in coordination with committees on the role of the IC in the event Secretary of State, the Director of the FBI, the Secretary of Defense and Chairman of of a biological attack, including a technical and the DNI to develop written mechanisms the Joint Chiefs of Staff to submit to the ap- capabilities assessment to address potential to share such travel information and address propriate congressional committees a report unknown pathogens. noncompliance. Section 502 further requires on national security systems. Section 607. Reports on declassification pro- written reporting to the specified commit- Section 604. Joint facilities certification. posals. tees detailing the number of notifications, Section 604 requires that before an element Section 607 requires the DNI to provide the and the number of known or suspected viola- of the IC purchases, leases, or constructs a congressional intelligence committees with tions of such personnel requirements. new facility that is 20,000 square feet or larg- a report and briefing on the IC’s progress in Section 503. Study and report on enhanced in- er, the head of that element must first cer- producing four feasibility studies under- telligence and information sharing with tify that all prospective joint facilities have taken in the course of the IC’s fundamental Open Skies Treaty member states. been considered, that it is unable to identify classification guidance review, as required Section 503 requires the DNI, with support a joint facility that meets its operational re- under Executive Order 13526. Section 607 fur- of other federal agencies, to conduct a study quirements, and it must list the reasons for ther requires the Director to provide the to determine the feasibility of creating an not participating in joint facilities in that congressional intelligence committees with intelligence sharing arrangement and data- instance. a briefing, interim report, and final report on base among parties to the Open Skies Treaty Section 605. Leadership and management of the final feasibility studies produced by ele- (OST) with higher frequency, quality, and ef- space activities. ments of the IC and an implementation plan ficiency than that currently provided by the Section 605 requires the DNI, in consulta- for each initiative. parameters of the OST. Section 503 also re- tion with the Secretary of Defense and the Section 608. Improvement in government classi- quires the Director to issue a report that in- Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to fication and declassification. cludes an intelligence assessment on Russian issue an update to the strategy for a com- Section 608 assesses government classifica- Federation warfighting doctrine, the extent prehensive review of the United States na- tion and declassification in a digital era by to which Russian Federation flights under tional security overhead satellite architec- requiring the DNI to review the system by

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.012 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 which the Government classifies and declas- riod. Section 615 further requires the report Development Block Grant, TIGER sifies national security information to im- to include an evaluation of the usefulness of transportation grants, housing vouch- prove the protection of such information, en- establishing a prohibition on reprisals as a ers and housing capital funds, the able information sharing with allies and means of encouraging IC contractors to HOME Partnership Program, Commu- partners, and support appropriate declas- make protected disclosures, and any rec- sification. Section 608 requires the DNI to ommendations the IC IG deems appropriate. nity Oriented Policing grants, and submit a report with its findings and rec- Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I SAFER and FIRE grants for fire- ommendations to the congressional intel- support the Omnibus appropriations fighters. I am pleased that this bill in- ligence committees. Section 608 further re- bill before us today. While this bill is cludes investments to improve rela- quires the DNI to provide an annual written not perfect, it is a strong statement of tionships between communities and po- notification to the congressional intelligence priorities, especially in light of the lice, which will be helpful as Baltimore committees on the creation, validation, or misguided and dangerous cuts that works to implement its consent decree. substantial modification (to include termi- We also included critical funding for nation) of existing and proposed controlled President Trump proposed for fiscal access programs, and the compartments and year 2018. afterschool programs and community subcompartments within each. This certifi- As a new member of the Appropria- schools, preserved funding for work- cation shall include the rationale for each tions Committee, I thank the chairman force training and Pell grants, and will controlled access program, compartment, or and vice chairman and their staffs for finally allow students to access Pell subcompartment and how each controlled ac- their thoughtful work on this bill and year-round so that they can finish cess program is being protected. their careful consideration of Senators’ school more quickly. Section 609. Report on implementation of re- requests and priorities. As with any compromise, this bill is search and development recommendations. This bill contains many critical in- not perfect. As this is the first appro- Section 609 requires the DNI to conduct vestments for my home State of Mary- priations bill since the passage of the and provide to the congressional intelligence land, including maintenance for the Every Student Succeeds Act, I would committees a current assessment of the IC’s Port of Baltimore, millions for the have liked it to include greater invest- implementation of the recommendations Chesapeake Bay Program and other ments in funding for title I, special issued in 2013 by the National Commission programs that support Bay clean-up, a for the Review of the Research and Develop- education, teacher professional devel- ment (R&D) Programs of the IC. $6 million increase for the Appalachian opment, and student support and aca- Regional Commission, $125 million for Section 610. Report on Intelligence Community demic enrichment grants. The bill also Research and Development Corps. the Purple Line, and full funding for continues a few riders that interfere in the Washington Metropolitan Area Section 610 requires the DNI to develop and the District of Columbia’s ability to brief the congressional intelligence commit- Transit Authority. The bill also con- use its funds as it sees fit. tees on a plan, with milestones and bench- tains a critical down payment for the Finally, the bill is notable for the marks, to implement a R&D Reserve Corps, consolidation of the FBI headquarters things that it does not include. Con- as recommended in 2013 by the bipartisan and a commitment to full funding in gress has rejected draconian cuts to National Commission for the Review of the fiscal year 2018. Prince George’s Coun- the Environmental Protection Agency R&D Programs of the IC, including any fund- ty, MD, is home to two of the sites in and the State Department. There is im- ing and potential changes to existing au- contention to house the headquarters portant funding for border security, thorities that may be needed to allow for the and the FBI’s nearly 11,000 employees. Corps’ implementation. but not for a wasteful and ineffective While President Trump as proposed border wall. In addition, Democrats Section 611. Report on information relating to cuts to medical research at the Na- successfully blocked many poison-pill academic programs, scholarships, fellow- tional Institutes of Health in Bethesda, ships, and internships sponsored, adminis- riders from the bill that would have tered, or used by the intelligence commu- MD, this omnibus bill increases fund- harmed our environment, banned fund- nity. ing by $2 billion to find new cures and ing for Planned Parenthood and other Section 611 requires the DNI to submit to treatments. The bill continues critical women’s health programs, and rolled congressional intelligence committees a re- NASA missions that are being worked back important consumer protections. port on information that the IC collects on on in Maryland, including the PACE With the passage of the omnibus bill, certain academic programs, scholarships, Program, earth science, and the James we will avoid a dangerous government and internships sponsored, administered, or Webb Space Telescope, the successor to shutdown. I urge my colleagues to sup- used by the IC. the Hubble Space Telescope. While the port the bill. Section 612. Report on intelligence community bill cuts the National Oceanic and At- Ms. CANTWELL. I suggest the ab- employees detailed to National Security mospheric Administration, it does so sence of a quorum and ask unanimous Council less than what the Trump administra- consent that the time be equally di- Section 612 requires the DNI to submit to tion has proposed, and it continues vided. the congressional intelligence committees a funding for the Joint Polar Satellite The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. classified written report listing, by year, the System weather satellite program and number of employees of an element of the IC FISCHER). Without objection, it is so who have been detailed to the National Secu- the Geostationary Operational Envi- ordered. rity Council during each of the previous ten ronmental Satellite Program, which The clerk will call the roll. years. will help improve weather forecasting The bill clerk proceeded to call the Section 613. Intelligence community reporting to and warn about natural disasters. roll. Congress on foreign fighter flows There is also important funding for Ms. MURKOWSKI. Madam President, Section 613 directs DNI to submit to the oceanic and atmospheric research and I ask unanimous consent that the order congressional intelligence committees a re- the Sea Grant program, which has been for the quorum call be rescinded. port on foreign fighter flows to and from ter- a partner in Chesapeake Bay restora- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without rorist safe havens abroad. tion. The bill slightly increases Na- objection, it is so ordered. Section 614. Report on cybersecurity threats to tional Science Foundation funding and Ms. MURKOWSKI. Madam President, seaports of the United States and maritime supports critical energy research at the I ask unanimous consent that if the shipping Department of Energy. While funding motion to concur in the House amend- Section 614 directs the Under Secretary of for the National Institute of Standards ment to the Senate amendment to H.R. Homeland Security for Intelligence and and Technology received a small cut, 244 is agreed to, the Senate proceed to Analysis (I&A) to submit to the congres- the final funding level is higher than the consideration of H. Con. Res. 53, an sional intelligence committees a report on the cybersecurity threats to seaports of the what the House of Representatives ini- enrollment correction to H.R. 244, that United States and maritime shipping. tially proposed, and the bill includes the resolution be agreed to, and the Section 615. Report on reprisals against contrac- support for the National Network for motion to reconsider be considered tors of the intelligence community Manufacturing Innovation. made and laid upon the table. We were also able to preserve funding Section 615 directs the IC IG to submit to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there the congressional intelligence committees a in this bill that communities across objection? report on known or claimed reprisals made Maryland use to support economic de- Without objection, it is so ordered. against employees of contractors of elements velopment, affordable housing, and Ms. MURKOWSKI. Madam President, of the IC during the preceding three-year pe- safety. That includes the Community I have come to the floor this afternoon

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.013 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2755 to speak on the Omnibus appropria- our appropriations bills, but it is where are infrastructure improvements in Ko- tions bill that is now before the Sen- we are right now, and the option we diak to support homeporting Offshore ate. We will have an opportunity to have in front of us, in my view, is Patrol Cutters in the Arctic region and vote on that very shortly here. clearly the best option. funding for new cutters that we will I would like to take a few moments Continuing resolutions are just not a see stationed throughout Alaska. to explain why I intend to support this way to operate. I think they are poor There is a lot going on in the news legislative measure. I support this bill policy. Keeping funding at previous right now with regard to Russia and because I think it is good for the coun- levels doesn’t allow for Congress to North Korea, and it certainly is front try, and I believe it is good for my have any input on any new priorities. and foremost for Alaskans. We have State of Alaska. In some cases, programs receive more our neighbors to the west of us there, I think what we have seen through money than they may actually need at in Russia, and of course we are within this appropriations process is a nego- that time; thus, you have a situation range of anything North Korea might tiated bill going back and forth be- where you are ending up wasting dol- consider. So there is a very keen inter- tween both sides, between both bodies, lars, rather than being good and effi- est and a desire to ensure that our Na- and it is a bill that funds the Federal cient stewards of the taxpayer dollars. tion is investing in our Pacific and our Government through the end of this I think we saw that with this omni- Arctic defense. fiscal year. It is far from perfect. I bus bill we have in front of us now, it This bill recognizes the issue, and it think we recognize that, but it is tough gave our new President the oppor- recognizes the strategic value that to find legislation anyplace where we tunity to weigh in. Clearly, we heard Alaska has. It provides $4.3 billion for are all going to be in agreement that it President Trump’s priorities expressed the procurement of F–35s, including has everything each of us wants. I do not only throughout the campaign but some of those that will be based in the believe it is a solid bill. It is a solid, bi- early in his new administration, his interior part of the State. We saw the partisan effort, and I would urge my priorities on national security, making need for the next generation of fighter colleagues to support this bill. sure that from a defense perspective jets in Alaska when, just a few weeks The first thing it does is it prevents and border security, these issues were ago, Russian planes were buzzing the the government from shutting down. addressed. I think we have done so in a coast for 4 days straight. Well, today’s Simply put, there are very few things responsible way on the defense spend- news reups that. F–22s intercepted two in my mind that would warrant a gov- ing side but also with a comprehensive Russian Bear bombers 50 miles south- ernment shutdown. The people of this approach to border security and uti- west of Alaska, according to the news country expect us to govern. They lizing new surveillance and new tech- this morning. don’t expect us to come to work and nologies. Again, when you are thinking about say we are going to shut it down. They This bill consolidates or terminates the investments we make to provide expect us to figure out how we are dozens of existing programs and rejects for our Nation’s security, Alaska sits going to fund it, to keep it open, and to unnecessary spending tax dollars. It re- at the center up there in terms of stra- do so in a responsible way that allows duces spending and wasteful programs, tegic location. for the priorities to be reflected. I eliminates unnecessary, ineffective, There is also money for developing think we have done that. the long-range discrimination radar at I feel very strongly that those who and duplicative programs. Again, I think what we have put to- Clear and funds for the ground-based would suggest that the way to deal gether within this appropriations om- missile defense at Fort Greely. Again, with things is to shut it down is not nibus is a spending proposal that does this is very significant at this time, the proper approach. That is why I apply the taxpayer dollars responsibly. given the geopolitics not too far from have supported Senator PORTMAN’s leg- our State. islation to put an end to government Overall, the bill puts real dollars be- Another key part of our Arctic de- shutdowns. We just don’t need disrup- hind our Nation’s priorities by enhanc- fense strategy is finally being realized, tions that ultimately hurt our econ- ing our national security, investing in after years of me kind of pounding on omy and hurt our families. education infrastructure and innova- I certainly would have preferred a tion, as well as improving the health this drum—funding for icebreakers. As process that would allow for funding and well-being of all Americans. of right now, we are woefully behind the government by passing appropria- I would like to take just a few mo- when it comes to our ability to maneu- tions measures on an individual basis, ments to speak specifically to some of ver in the Arctic regions in our waters. one by one. My colleague from the provisions that will be helpful in So there is $150 million in advance pro- Vermont, who is on the floor, has been my State of Alaska. The omnibus bill curement funding for an icebreaker around for a few Congresses, and he sustains Alaska’s contributions to our that is in the DOD budget and an addi- knows that used to be the way we han- national defense, helps to protect our tional $55 million in the Coast Guard dled appropriations. We had an approps fisheries, address high energy costs, budget. It is imperative that we move bill come to the floor. We debated it. helps our very struggling timber indus- to fund a new icebreaker now. We amended it. We moved it through. try in Southeastern Alaska, and helps We also recognize the role the Coast We worked through that process. It was keep the Federal Government’s com- Guard plays in terms of national de- somewhat tediously slow at times, but mitment to Alaska Natives. fense across the country, particularly it was a very open and collaborative There are some programs that would in the Arctic. So the bill provides $1.3 process that I think reflected, again, appear to be pretty small, but in terms billion in acquisition construction and the priorities around the country. of consequence and impact on Alaska, improvement money. The Coast Guard What we have in front of us is a they are quite significant. needs to recapitalize its aging fleet, measure that did in fact go through the Essential Air Service, we provide and we see this no more apparent than full appropriations process, all 12 ap- funding in this measure that helps in Alaska. A ship that was built back propriations bills. It made it through maintain commercial air service to as in 1971 is still being used to patrol the committee. Sometimes not all of many as 60 small communities in the areas that are perhaps some of the them do, but for fiscal year 2017, these State. The reason it is called Essential roughest seas in the world. This is not appropriations bills did. Air Service is because in most of these smooth water sailing. Congress needs As we saw at the end of last year, communities, there is no other way to to recognize the role played by the there was an agreement that we would get to these smaller communities. Coast Guard, not only in national de- not move forward with the appropria- There is no road access. There is no fense but in drug interdiction, fisheries tions bills at that time—actually, it other way. You might be able to run a patrol, and safety encroachment, and was probably less than an agreement, riverboat out, but in terms of ability to we must give it the assets it needs to but a decision was made—and we are access, this Essential Air Service is ex- do its job well. here, as of May 4, still working on fis- actly that. On the education front, this bill pro- cal year 17. The bill provides for new investments vides funds for our public schools, in- This is clearly not the best option, in in the Coast Guard that will help in- cluding money for programs that were my view, in terms of how we handle crease safety in Alaska’s waters. There authorized in ESSA. It funds IDEA,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.023 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2756 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Carl Perkins, impact aid, and 21st Cen- We need to effectively make sure that country who have stated time after tury Community Learning Centers. Es- whether it is the WIFIA program, the time that because of our sequestration pecially important for us in Alaska are State revolving funds for our water and and our mindless meat ax, we are put- the programs like ANEEP, Alaska Na- our waste water programs, making ting the lives of the men and women tive Education Equity Program, sure we have the resources to do right who are serving our Nation in uniform strengthening Alaska Native and Na- by our communities, and making sure at greater risk. tive Hawaiian-serving institutions, there is clean air and clean water, Don’t we have an obligation to try to tribally controlled colleges and univer- whether it is the Targeted Air Shed stop that? Obviously, there is not a sities, and Indian education national Grant Program, which helps commu- majority here in the Senate who be- activities. nities deal with pollution issues and air lieves we should, to our everlasting We have all come to the floor over issues—I think we did a fair job with shame. Unless we change course, we the course of these past few months the EPA budget. will only continue that failure. this Congress to talk about the impact Again, we have worked to reduce in We are about to vote on yet another on our communities of the opioid epi- areas where we are just staffing up for Omnibus appropriations bill. It is well demic in this country. This bill helps initiatives that quite honestly have over 1,000 pages. Look here; this is to get money where it is needed to help been questioned and challenged, mak- what we are about to vote on without fight this epidemic. ing sure we are focusing on the prior- a single amendment—without a single Over $1 billion is provided to various ities that deliver on EPA’s mission, amendment. Is there any Member of programs and agencies to specifically which is clean air and clean water. the U.S. Senate who has read this? Is address this problem. Over $600 million Madam President, the last thing I there any Member who has read this of that will go to SAMHSA, the Sub- would like to add is what we were able bill of over $1 trillion that we are about stance Abuse and Mental Health Serv- to do with regard to wildfires because to vote on? Many of us are going to be ices Administration, including $500 this is an issue for so many of us in the compelled to vote for it because we million for a new program that was West. We were able to include funding don’t want to shut down the govern- created by the 21st Century Cures Act for wildland fire management pro- ment again. The American people don’t that we passed earlier last year. The grams to fully fund the 10-year average want the government to shut down, no CDC, the Department of Justice, and of suppression costs, as well as to allow matter what some colleagues of mine the VA will see increased funding to for emergency funding in the event say. But here it is. help deal with this scourge of addic- that we have a catastrophic wildfire I challenge any of my colleagues to tion. season. I think we all understand the come to the floor and tell me they have As chairman of the Interior, Environ- challenges our agencies face when we read this bill. ment, and Related Agencies Approps have fire borrowing going back and Is it any wonder that the American Subcommittee, the division G of the forth. So this is an effort we have long people are fed up with this way of omnibus is of particular significance to sought to address, and we will continue doing business? There are 1,000 pages— me. The Interior appropriations section to work on that. 1,000 pages. That is what we are going probably has more impact on the State It has been interesting to watch and to vote on in a relatively short period of Alaska than most would realize. It to read the news about this omnibus. of time—haven’t read it—no amend- controls funding levels for the Federal You have the President who said: This ments. agencies and Departments that have a is good. This is what winning looks I am sure there may be some provi- huge presence in my State: BLM, For- like. You have Democrats who have sions in this 1,000-page document that est Service, EPA, Fish and Wildlife said: We won. Members would like to modify, like to Service, Indian Health Service, BIA, It is not about a win for the D’s or a add to. But what business are we and National Park Service. These are win for the R’s; it is about making sure doing? What is the world’s greatest de- all within the auspices of Interior. this is right for the country. I would liberative body doing here in a couple I will give you some of the highlights suggest that if both sides are taking hours? We are going to vote yes or no within the Interior bill. This is the cen- credit, we must have hit the sweet spot on a 1,000-page document. Shame on us. tennial year of the National Park Serv- somewhere in the middle. Shame on us. ice so we were able to do more to help I think at this place where we are Not a single appropriations bill—we address the maintenance backlog with- right now, with over 7 months into this have an Appropriations Committee. in our park system. fiscal year, it is well past time that They have their subcommittees. My The two agencies that deliver serv- Congress pass a bill that funds the gov- friend and colleague from Vermont is ices for Indian communities, BIA and ernment for the balance of this fiscal here and wants to talk about it. They Indian Health Service, we did our best year. These are uncertain times for the churn out individual bills. I believe to support those programs which are country—uncertain times certainly in there are 13 of them, one of them being critical to the Indian community. For my State—and I think it deserves some Defense, by the way. But all of that is those agencies, we have provided full certainty from us. It is a good bill, and without amendment, without debate on contract support costs. We continue I think we owe it to the American peo- the floor of the world’s greatest delib- Tribal court funding for those Public ple not to create unnecessary and un- erative body. Yet we are going to go Law 280 States. We have really worked wanted drama about whether the Fed- ahead and vote yes or no. to do what we can within IHS to ad- eral Government remains open for Many of us are going to vote yes be- dress the issues of suicide, domestic vi- business. cause we don’t want to shut down the olence, alcohol, and substance abuse I urge my colleagues to support this U.S. Government. We don’t want to de- programs. Making sure we are doing measure. prive our citizens of the goods, serv- right by providing the support for our With that, I yield the floor. ices, and provisions that a government healthcare facilities is critically im- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. SUL- is supposed to provide people. I don’t portant. LIVAN). The Senator from Arizona. want to shut down the Grand Canyon We also have oversight of the EPA Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I come again, my friends. I don’t want to de- within our jurisdiction. I have heard to the floor once again to discuss the prive people from all over the world the some criticism from some that we threats facing our country, the chal- ability to see the Grand Canyon. So didn’t do enough to reduce EPA spend- lenges confronting the brave men and what do we do? CRAs. ing and then others are saying we took women of our Armed Forces. I feel I am all in favor of repealing regula- too much from the EPA, but what we compelled to remind my colleagues tions that are onerous and bad for really looked to try to do was to take about what is at stake because of our America and small businesses and a commonsense approach, focus re- failure right here to provide them the large. Is that a rationale for what we sources on the programs that do the resources and equipment they need and are about to do? concrete things to improve the quality deserve, placing their lives at greater I say to my friends on the other side of the environment for the public when risk. That is not my opinion; it is the of the aisle: You blocked many of these it comes to clean air and clean water. opinion of the uniformed leaders of our bills that we wanted to bring to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.024 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2757 floor. You blocked them. Why? For plane, the more it costs to maintain Trump $216 billion short. Even Presi- what purpose? Of course, on this side of the plane. The more you deploy a sol- dent Obama’s budget was $113 billion the aisle, we have agreed to do some- dier, the more you have to pay him or above the BCA caps, and that budget thing like that. her to stay in the military. barely slowed the deterioration of mili- So I just say to my colleagues: You When budget top lines are deter- tary readiness and capabilities. should not be curious when you see the mined by politics and not require- I regret to say, Chairman THORN- approval ratings of the Congress of the ments, the Department of Defense has BERRY, the distinguished chairman of United States in the teens. to make tradeoffs. For example, the the House Armed Services Committee, Again, as I said, we will be blamed military may forgo buying military and I fare even worse against the BCA. for putting our men and women in uni- equipment to keep up with wartime We believe that rebuilding our military form at greater risk. That is not JOHN costs, but this exacerbates the prob- will require a defense budget of $640 bil- MCCAIN’s view; that happens to be the lem. Our equipment gets older as it is lion in fiscal year 2018. Sustaining that opinion of our uniformed service Chiefs used more and the cost of maintaining level of funding over the remaining who are telling us that when we are not aging equipment skyrockets. Here is years with the Budget Control Act funding the military, we are putting the death spiral, why the state of our would require an additional $433 bil- the lives of the men and women serving military is what it is today. lion. at risk. Three—count them—three of our Give our men and women in uniform We passed the Budget Control Act 6 Army brigades are at the highest level a budget that will allow them to rise to years ago as an attempt to address our of readiness. Four of 64 Air Force meet the challenges of the 21st cen- spending problem. This legislation led squadrons are ready to fight tonight; tury. Congress must change the Budget to a $443 billion cut to defense. What that is four out of 64. Less than half of Control Act, and the only way to do has also happened? Deficits came down the Marine and Navy planes are ready that is with a bipartisan budget agree- for a while, and we are on track to re- for combat. The Air Force has a pilot ment. As we stand here, there is no se- turn to $1 trillion deficits again in a shortfall of 1,500—1,000 of which are rious conversation that I am aware of matter of years. The national debt is fighter pilots. The Navy has a mainte- in this body or anywhere else in Wash- set at $20 trillion and has grown and nance backlog of 5.3 million days. The ington about what the agreement will continue to grow. ship maintenance backlogs are so bad would look like or what it would We slashed our military, friends. We that some ships are like the submarine achieve. slashed it. Yeah, great job, we slashed USS Boise, which is tied up in port and The next 4 years can’t be like the the spending on the military. In fact, if isn’t qualified to dive and recently last 4 years. We must find a way to pro- you look, you will see the only portion missed a deployment. vide the military with the resources where there has been a reduction in Look at this graphic. These are the they need and deserve to perform the spending is where? Defense. aircraft—all of them that are fully mis- missions we assign them. We must pro- When you look at the past several sion capable. These are the Army units vide them with the timely authoriza- years since sequestration, do you think that are ready to fight tonight. This is tion of appropriations bills. We must the world has gotten safer? Do you the U.S. Air Force, and these depict provide them with something they think the men and women who are the airplanes ready to fight; Marine have not had for years—certainty—so serving are better protected, better Corps aircraft, the same way. they can properly plan and efficiently equipped? So here we are with this situation, use taxpayers’ dollars to defend the Na- We have 60 percent of our F–18s not and what are we doing? We aren’t real- tion. flying. Why? No parts. We have two ly addressing the issue because we are What are we looking at right now? submarines tied up at the pier for a going to be faced in the next year or so We are going to pass this thing. It year because they cannot leave the with the same budget problem of se- will pass. Then, in September—how pier. The Air Force is 1,000 pilots short. questration. many months is that now? It is about What have we done? We have cut de- While this is happening, our enemies 5 months from now—we are going to be fense spending by 4 percent. Mean- aren’t sitting still. Our adversaries are bumping up against the same ceiling while, the interest on the debt has in- not waiting for this body to wake up to and the threat of shutting down the creased by 7 percent; nondefense, 19 do its job and act. While we have forced government. Are we going to wait until percent; and the elephant in the room, our military to make tradeoffs between the beginning of September before we the third rail that none of us want to supporting immediate operational re- start to address this or not? Is that the touch is mandatory spending; that is quirements and future modernization, kind of fiscal cowardice we are going to Social Security and Medicare, pri- China, Russia, and other adversaries perform? We are going to see this marily. have been singularly focused on devel- movie again and again and again and What have we done? We have short- oping military capabilities to target again unless we repeal the Budget Con- changed the men and women who are U.S. forces and take away our unique trol Act and start providing for the serving in the military, trying to de- military advantages. men and women who are serving this fend this Nation while nondefense Our military has multiple missions. Nation and the challenges we are fac- spending has gone up by 19 percent. Our adversaries have one mission, and ing, which any military expert will tell So the next time I hear one of my that is to undermine U.S. military su- you are the greatest they have been in colleagues say: Well, we should con- periority. I regret to inform my col- 70 years. We have to stop this. tinue to cut defense spending because leagues that they are succeeding much We will paper over our failures with of the debt, we have already done that. more than we anticipated. continuing resolutions. We will cut We have already shortchanged the men The fact is, the U.S. military advan- piecemeal deals in the midnight hour and women who are defending this Na- tage is eroding. National Security Ad- that fail to fix the serious challenges tion. viser GEN H.R. McMaster summed it this country faces. We will accept these Over the past 10 years, as I men- up best when he testified that the U.S. outcomes because they are better than tioned, mandatory spending has grown Army is outgunned and outranged. The yearlong continuing resolutions or by 56 percent, and defense has been cut reality is not much different across the shutdowns. We will clear the pitifully by 4 percent. military services. low bar of success we have set for our- The death spiral is occurring. We are The President understands it. Re- selves, and all the while, challenges we in budget cuts with a high operational building the military has been a major will have been charged to address will tempo, and the military is now in a vi- priority for this administration, but we only get worse. We have to break this cious cycle. The death spiral works have to face the simple fact that the cycle. like this. This is the death spiral, OK? military buildup proposed by this After several years of political grid- Constant and frequent deployments in- President is illegal because the Budget lock, we know a bipartisan budget deal crease costs. To send our men and Control Act forbids it. Over the next 4 will be necessary to pass appropria- women overseas into harm’s way in- years, the Budget Control Act’s caps on tions bills. Let’s try a novel idea. Why creases costs. The more you fly the defense spending would leave President don’t we work on the deal now? Why

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.026 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 don’t we sit down together, with all of I will vote for it, but we should not be body—Republicans and Democrats— us recognizing the challenges to our celebrating this fact. On this, I agree agree they have spent it well. This re- national security, and fix this problem with the distinguished Senator from search is leading to advancements in instead of kicking the can down the Arizona in that we should not be fin- lung disease treatments, cancers, and road? My friends, if we do not, I guar- ishing our work 7 months into the fis- to more effectively using genome test- antee you we will be doing this same cal year. I wish his party had allowed ing to advance the emerging and prom- thing again in September. What is us to do it last November. These bills ising field of precision medicine. that? We will be looking at another could have been and should have been In this bill, we were able to protect 1,000-page bill—1,000 pages that none of finished then. In fact, we were 98 per- funding for LIHEAP. As the distin- us has read. Oh, I take it back. There cent done with our negotiations, both guished Presiding Officer and I know, may be four or five Senators who know Republicans and Democrats, when we are in States in which the tempera- what is in it. Maybe 4, maybe 5, maybe then-President-elect Trump said: Pen- tures can often plunge way below zero. as many as 8 out of 100 will know about cils down, and put everything on hold. LIHEAP is a vital lifeline—certainly in it. If we do not stop this, this is exactly The Senator from Arizona and his the State of Vermont—to prevent peo- the movie we are going to see come party have been operating on a con- ple from being forced to make the September—not acceptable. tinuing resolution ever since. I am glad wrenching choice of putting food on Don’t we owe the men and women to hear him say this is not the way he their tables for their families or keep- who are serving in uniform in harm’s wants to do it. ing them warm. way today—several of whom have just I, certainly, agree with the distin- We have also put in $512 million— been killed in the last few days—more guished senior Senator from Alaska nearly double the resources available than what we are giving them? Don’t when she says this is not the way to do last year—to combat the opioid epi- we owe them the best equipment and it. Those of us who have been here for demic. This is a plague that grips every the best training we can possibly pro- a while know that does not work and it community in the country. It does not vide them with rather than their being is no way to govern. make any difference whether one is a dictated to by a meat-ax called seques- It is my goal—and I believe Chairman Republican or a Democrat. It is hitting tration? Don’t we? COCHRAN shares this goal—to return to all of us. It is a problem that does not Mr. President, I yield the floor. regular order, which is when we con- know the difference between rich or The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- sider each appropriations bill in com- poor, urban or rural, Republican or ator from Vermont. mittee, debate each one publicly on the Democrat. I think every Senator prob- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, as one of floor, and then vote it up or down. That ably knows someone or a family with the Senators who has read this bill, I is the way we should operate. That is someone who has been in the grips of would note that most of this bill has what the American people deserve. I opioid addiction. My wife and I have been here since November. We were look forward to working with Chair- sat down at kitchen tables with griev- prepared to go in November and vote man COCHRAN to make this a reality ing parents who have lost their chil- on each part of it separately. when we return, in very short order, to dren. We have spoken to first respond- I would advise the distinguished sen- the fiscal year 2018 bills. ers who have seen so many people die. ior Senator from Arizona, who is a I have been on the Appropriations We have to confront this problem head- friend of mine, that his party did not Committee for decades, and I have on in this country. want to go forward in November. They served as either chairman or ranking We are doing a number of other were asked by the then-President-elect member of different subcommittees things. We are protecting funds for the EPA at the critical moment of con- not to go forward with it, and his party there, just as I have served as chair- fronting climate change. In that re- said it would not go forward with it. man or ranking member on Agriculture gard, I was pleased that Marcelle and I We could have passed all of the bills and the Judiciary. Yet I decided this were able to host hundreds of separately in November. year to take on the vice chairmanship Vermonters who had driven all night I would also note, as the distin- of the Appropriations Committee be- long in order to join the hundreds of guished senior Senator from Alaska cause I believe in the power of the thousands of people in the Nation’s said on the floor a few minutes ago, purse, in the ability of this committee Capital for the Climate March. that Republicans and Democrats have to make a real difference in people’s I see that the distinguished chairman been working very closely on this ap- lives, and because of the respect I have has come on the floor. I ask unanimous propriations bill. She expressed—and I for Chairman COCHRAN. consent that I be able to yield to him, absolutely join her in this—that we go Our national budget is a reflection of without losing my right to the floor, so back to the way it always has been. My our Nation’s priorities, and the appro- I may finish my speech when he is fin- party is not in control of the schedule priations bills are where our priorities ished. in the Senate, but I would ask that all become realities. I am pleased to re- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there of us in both parties work together and port we have worked hard to reflect objection? start doing the appropriations bills one Americans’ values in the fiscal year Without objection, it is so ordered. by one, as we always have. In fact, this 2017 consolidated appropriations bill The Senator from Mississippi. bill is the product of many long weeks before us. I think we have reached a Mr. COCHRAN. Mr. President, this and days and nights and weekends. I good deal. afternoon, the Senate will consider the know. A lot of times, I went to bed at I am pleased that on a bipartisan Consolidated Appropriations Act of midnight, and my staff kept on work- basis we have rejected President 2017. The bill will fund the Federal ing. Trump’s ill-considered proposal to Government for the remainder of this I thank Republican Chairman THAD slash domestic programs by $15 billion, fiscal year. I urge the Senate to ap- COCHRAN, of Mississippi, for his leader- including deep cuts in the NIH and low- prove the bill. ship in reaching this agreement of income energy assistance. I am glad to It provides our Armed Forces with keeping the government open for busi- see a $2 billion increase for the Na- the money they need to safeguard our ness. It is how Congress can and should tional Institutes of Health. I was proud homeland and protect our interests work. to have brought then-Vice President around the world. The funding levels Forget the rhetoric. Forget political Biden to the University of Vermont are within the limits of the Budget brinkmanship. This agreement shows last October to discuss his Cancer Control Act. In total, the bill will in- something we have worked on and that Moonshot Initiative and to see and crease Department of Defense spending when we come together and work hear how Vermonters are contributing by $23.6 billion over President Obama’s through our differences—both parties to research to better treat—and hope- fiscal year 2017 request. These funds here and both parties in the other fully cure—cancer. NIH funding is cen- are badly needed to improve the readi- body—that we can do the work of the tral to this effort. ness of our Armed Forces and to con- American people. Last year, the NIH accounted for tinue our campaign to defeat ISIL. I think the package before us is a nearly $40 million in research funding This bill includes the largest invest- good deal for the American people, and for the University of Vermont. Every- ment in border security in nearly a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.027 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2759 decade. Additional funding is provided mined the health insurance of millions solidated appropriations bill. While we for fencing and other physical infra- of Americans by attacking the protec- were negotiating, I remember being on structure, communications and surveil- tions they have under the Affordable the phone at 10, 11 o’clock at night, lance technology, the hiring of addi- Care Act and riders that would have night after night, but I went to bed, tional agents, and additional detention slapped restrictions on women’s access and the staff would keep on working beds to help stop the practice of catch to healthcare, especially in rural areas, until 2 or 3 in the morning. and release. These funds will help re- and riders that would have rolled back So I thank the staff of the Appropria- duce human trafficking and the flow of consumer financial protections of tions Committee and subcommittee illegal drugs into our country. Dodd-Frank regulations and weaken clerks on both sides of the aisle, who While the additional funds for de- environmental protections. Let’s have have been here day in and day out for fense and border security have received votes up or down on those issues, any- many weeks. I certainly thank my much of the attention, there are many time you want, but not in a must-pass staff director, Charles ‘‘Chuck’’ Kieffer, other important programs that are spending bill. deputy staff director Chanda funded within the bill. I also particularly welcome the fact Betourney, and Jessica Berry, Jay For the second year in a row, pro- that not a single cent in the bill will go Tilton, JP Dowd, and Jean Kwon, as viding funding for research at the Na- toward building President Trump’s well as Senator SCHUMER and his staff, tional Institutes of Health is increased misguided wall on the southern border. including Gerry Petrella, Meghan by $2 billion. New funding is included When that issue came up in our debate, Taira, Mike Lynch, and Mike Kuiken to combat the opioid epidemic that has I said: Well let’s have a vote, up or for the assistance they provided. I want plagued communities across the coun- down, in the House and in the Senate, to recognize and thank Bruce Evans try. The FBI receives additional fund- on the wall, where all Republicans and and Fitz Elder from Chairman COCH- ing to protect against terrorist threats all Democrats vote. If it passes, then I RAN’s staff, the majority staff director, and combat illegal cyber activity. will stop my objection. Nobody wants and deputy staff director. They worked Throughout the bill, spending con- such a vote because not enough people very, very hard and in their usual pro- trols are placed on Federal agencies. support it. The American people should fessional and courteous manner. I want There are more than 150 rescissions, not, and they will not, be forced to pay to thank Bob Putnam, Hong Nguyen, consolidations, or program termi- tens of billions of dollars for a bumper- and George Castro for the support they nations within the bill. These savings sticker solution to an incredibly com- provide to the committee every day. have been reallocated to higher prior- plex problem—a wall that the Presi- And finally, I want to thank the edi- ities. dent promised that Mexico, not Amer- torial and printing staff, without whom The basis of this legislation is with ican taxpayers, would pay for, even we could never have produced this bill. regard to the 12 appropriations bills though all American taxpayers know Valerie Hutton, Penny Myles, Elmer that were reported from the Appropria- that Americans, not Mexicans, would Barnes and Karinthia Thames were tions Committee. This is the second pay for it. His own department esti- here day and night, week after week, year in a row that the committee has mates that it would cost U.S. tax- editing the dozens of drafts that ulti- reported all 12 bills. This bill reflects a payers $22 billion. Some said during the mately became this consolidated bill. year’s worth of concerted effort by the debate: Show me a 30-foot wall, and I They work in relatively obscurity, but chairmen and ranking members of our will show you a 31-foot ladder. I can their expertise and dedication is not 12 subcommittees. It also reflects a also show you pictures of small prop lost on us. We depend on them and we great deal of hard work by the commit- planes and boats and tunnels. A wall is greatly appreciate what they do. tees’ staffs, for which I am deeply nothing more than an illusion. It is a Lastly, on a personal matter, I wish grateful. false promise of security. Instead of de- to take a moment for special recogni- I urge Senators to support the bill. bating this boondoggle, which Demo- tion of Charles Kieffer. Chuck is well The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- crats as well as Republicans and Inde- known to the Senate. He is a familiar ator from Vermont. pendents oppose, let’s consider real so- figure here in this Chamber. He has Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I note lutions with comprehensive immigra- served on the Appropriations Com- that the chairman and I are well aware tion reform. mittee for many years, under numer- of how well things go when we take In 2013, the Senate passed the large ous chairmen and vice chairmen. I was each one of these bills. He certainly effort of Republicans and Democrats grateful that he was willing to take on has led that effort, and that is the way working together on comprehensive and continue there when I took over as we should do it. immigration reforms. Let’s resume vice chairman. I mentioned this when the that debate and not throw money at What a lot of people don’t know is Vermonters were here last weekend. this expensive illusion, where we are that he has been working around the Marcelle and I hosted them, so many of cutting vital medical research at the clock on this, and in March he lost his whom had driven through the night to National Institutes of Health and oth- father Jerry. Just a few weeks ago, he join the hundreds of thousands of peo- ers to pay for it. lost his mother Fran. ple in the Nation’s Capital for the Cli- There are a lot of anti-science pro- If you know even a little bit about mate March. Many of them asked: Why posals and impulses in the proposals his parents, there is no doubt where can’t we do it the way we used to? I that came from the administration, Chuck gets his dedication to public told them we were ready to go to all of and I am proud that both Republicans service. His father Jerry served as the the bills in November, and I am sorry and Democrats rejected them. executive director of the National Cul- that leadership said no. So I support the bill before us. I am tural Center at the Kennedy Center. He There are things on which we have proud to join with Chairman COCHRAN. held positions in the Truman, Eisen- done a lot in this bill. Those of us on It is not a perfect bill, but no products hower, Nixon, Ford, and Carter admin- the Appropriations Committee have we all come together on are perfect. istrations. read this bill, and we have read most of But on balance, it is a good deal for the Chuck’s mother Fran was a longtime it since last November. American people. It reflects values of member of the League of Women Vot- The EPA provides funding to improve both Republicans and Democrats. The ers. She dedicated time to numerous the environmental quality and ecologi- bipartisan work that brought us to this civic institutions throughout her life- cal vibrancy of our small State’s great point shows what is possible and it lays time. At 93 and 89, respectively, Jerry Lake Champlain, the jewel of New Eng- the groundwork for our negotiations on and Fran lived a long and full life, in- land, as well as crucial funding for the fiscal year 2018 appropriations bills. cluding a marriage of 68 years. similar partnerships all over the coun- So I want to extend again my thanks Their loss will be profoundly felt by try. to Chairman COCHRAN and to the sub- their family and friends. My and I am also pleased to report what is committee chairmen and ranking Marcelle’s thoughts are with Chuck, not in this bill. In a bipartisan way, we members. It takes a tremendous his wife Meg, and their family. I thank get rid of more than 160 poison pill rid- amount of work to draft each of the him for his tireless dedication to this ers—riders that would have under- underlying bills contained in this con- institution, even during a time of great

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.029 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2760 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 personal sorrow. I would like to think they often have huge families who are employer obeys the law, Americans that his parents are looking down from depending on them for their remit- will do the job. If it is not, then, they their place of eternal reward with a tances. Their employers know that, should pay higher wages. To say any- great deal of pride in their son. and they take advantage of them. It is thing else is an insult to the work I yield the floor. a newfangled form of indentured ser- ethic of the American people who make The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- vitude. this country run. ator from Arkansas. Some people in this institution com- We just had an election in which the Mr. COTTON. Mr. President, I am plain about the way Arab countries President distinguished himself more going to be voting no on this 1,700-page treat guest workers from South Asia on immigration than on any other sin- bill. and Southeast Asia. The conditions gle issue. We all realize that, right? We I am not blind to some of the good under which some of these H–2B work- all realize that uncontrolled mass mi- parts of the bill. It includes last year’s ers operate are hardly much better. gration is upending the politics and so- Intelligence Authorization Act, and it They live in filth and squalor. They are cieties all across Europe. My col- includes some parts of the bill that I charged exorbitant fees for their hous- leagues realize that, right? What is it worked on that would counteract Rus- ing and for their food. The employers going to take for the people in Wash- sian activities in the United States and largely get away with it because they ington, DC, to realize just how out of Europe—provisions that were blocked know that these immigrant workers touch they are when it comes to pro- by the Obama administration since will not complain. They will not go to tecting the jobs and the wages of they refused to ever get tough on Rus- the authorities. They will not report it American workers? sia. to the Department of Labor because if I will vote no, and I will say that It increases defense spending, al- they do, they go back to their home today is not the day when Washington though not to an adequate degree in re- country. realizes just how out of touch they are. lation to the threats we face. Those are just the immigrant work- I yield the floor. For the first time in years, it recog- ers. What about the American workers? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- nizes that every dollar we spend on de- There are a lot of reasons why unscru- ator from Montana. fense doesn’t have to be matched by pulous American employers favor tem- Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I ask another dollar elsewhere in our budget. porary guest workers. They don’t have unanimous consent for 3 minutes, and Now, there are parts of this bill that to pay payroll taxes on them, for in- it will probably be less than that. got dropped that I would like to have stance. They don’t have to pay unem- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without seen, for instance, blocking Federal ployment taxes on them. But the real objection, it is so ordered. funding for sanctuary cities. We might reason is that those guest workers Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I would as well call them ‘‘outlaw cities’’ be- have virtually no leverage to demand like to thank the body for this bill. cause they refuse to comply with Fed- higher wages. As I said, they can be This is an omnibus, and I am going to eral immigration law and turn over il- sent home because they are tied to a vote for it. There are some things that legal immigrants facing deportation to single employer. Americans have more are disturbing about it—there is no Federal authorities. bargaining power. If they can get a bet- doubt about that—not to mention the But I want to hone in on one par- ter wage down the road, then they will fact that Congress took 7 months to ticular provision that shows just how go down the road. If they get better take care of this plan for the long bad this process is. In a 1,700-page bill, benefits, they can go to a new job, but term, which created uncertainty out they don’t hide the good things in the those guest workers cannot. there on the ground. There were 7 bill. They only hide the bad things. So So the employers who abuse the H–2B months when Congress sat on their look to page 735, section 543, where you program go to the greatest lengths to hands, which left towns, hospitals, air- will find an increase in H–2B visas of avoid hiring an American worker. The ports, and our citizenry in the lurch. almost 79,000—a 120-percent increase program says you have to advertise for But it does do some good things, and over the normal annual cap of a so- the jobs in advance, and they do, hun- I think it does reflect the values of called seasonal visa program for tem- dreds of miles away in obscure news- rural America, which I think is really porary workers that can take up to 9 or papers that have nothing to do with important. I think it is a responsible 10 months. the employer’s local economy. budget for rural America in States like It is not necessary. It has nothing to Many employers discourage Ameri- Montana. do with funding the government—noth- cans from applying in the first place. One of the things it does that I think ing. It hasn’t been vetted. It hasn’t Remember, these are unskilled labor is entirely appropriate is that it pushes gone through the normal legislative positions—unskilled. These are not the Education Department to recon- process, which would be the Judiciary high-tech jobs, but unskilled guest sider the Upward Bound grant applica- Committee, where the chairman and workers. They subject American work- tions that were denied because of ridic- the senior Democrat both have written ers to the most extreme, unreasonable, ulous—and I do mean ridiculous—for- that they oppose this measure. I don’t extraneous tests before they hire mat requirements, which will allow even know how it got in there. I don’t them—tests they do not give to those first-generation college kids to be able know if it was the chairman or the foreign guest workers because they can to go to college. ranking member. They may not know. pay them lower wages. When they fi- What the Department of Education It is 1,700 pages, after all. It takes nally are forced to hire an American did with the Upward Bound Program is hours to even figure out what it means worker, because they face penalties the worst of the bureaucracy that gov- because it is so complicated in lan- from the Department of Labor if they ernment can allow. This bill helps fix guage. don’t, they try to make conditions as that. It gives the Department of Edu- But this is what it does: It takes jobs bad as possible for them so they can cation a pair of glasses so they can away from American workers and fire them and then replace them with a apply a little common sense to their abuses the immigrants that come into foreigner. rules. this country. A lot of arguments for this kind of It also does some good things for our In the past 10 years, the Department program boil down to this: No Amer- national parks, it does some good of Labor has found 800 employers—800— ican will do that job. That is a lie. It is things for our bases, and it does some that have abused 23,000 guest workers— a lie. There is no job that Americans good things to help our natural re- everything from stealing their wages, will not do. There is no industry in sources. But since I am ranking mem- demanding bribes for their visas, and America where a majority of workers ber on the Appropriations Sub- even sexual abuse—and those are only are not native born, American citizens, committee on Homeland Security, I the ones that have been caught. That is or first generation lawful immigrants— can tell you that overall, I think it because unlike American workers, not landscapers, not construction really fits the needs of our homeland these immigrant workers cannot leave workers, not ski instructors, not life- security, whether it is border security their job. If they are fired, they go guards, not resort workers—not a sin- or cyber security. I think it is a re- back to their home country, where gle one. If the wage is decent and the sponsible bill to help invest in our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.030 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2761 economy moving forward while keep- PROVIDING FOR A CORRECTION IN The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ing this country secure. THE ENROLLMENT OF H.R. 244 ator from Montana. With that, I would encourage a ‘‘yes’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under NATIONAL DAY OF AWARENESS FOR MISSING AND vote on this bill. I would just ask that the previous order, the clerk will re- MURDERED NATIVE WOMEN AND GIRLS next time around, which is going to port the enrollment correction. Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, tomor- start immediately, we let the sub- The senior assistant legislative clerk row, May 5, Hanna Harris should have committees on appropriations do their read as follows: been 25 years old. Instead of cele- work and bring these subcommittee brating a birthday, we will be cele- A concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 53) brating her memory. Hanna was a 21- bills to the floor. providing for a correction in the enrollment Mr. President, I yield the floor. of H.R. 244. year-old member of the Cheyenne The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Tribe. She lived in Lame Deer, MT, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under SCOTT). Under the previous order, the with her 10-month-old son. The last the previous order, the concurrent res- motion to refer with amendment is time she was seen alive was the Fourth olution, H. Con. Res. 53, is agreed to, withdrawn and the motion to concur of July of 2013. After that, she went and the motion to reconsider is consid- with amendment is withdrawn. missing, and 5 days later, her body was ered made and laid upon the table. Under the previous order, the ques- found. Hanna was found to have been The majority leader. tion occurs on agreeing to the motion raped and murdered. to concur in the House amendment to f For too long, the stories of missing the Senate amendment to H.R. 244. EXECUTIVE SESSION and murdered American Indian and Mr. WICKER. I ask for the yeas and Alaska Native women have gone un- nays. heard. In fact, according to the Centers The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a EXECUTIVE CALENDAR for Disease Control and Prevention, sufficient second? homicide was the third leading cause of Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I There appears to be a sufficient sec- death among American Indian and move to proceed to executive session to Alaska Native women between the ages ond. consider Calendar No. 53, Scott Gott- The clerk will call the roll. of 10 and 24 years and the fifth leading lieb to be Commissioner of Food and cause of death for American Indian and The bill clerk called the roll. Drugs, Department of Health and Mr. CORNYN. The following Senators Alaska Native women between 25 and Human Services. 34 years of age. are necessarily absent: the Senator The PRESIDING OFFICER. The from Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON) and the According to a study commissioned question is on agreeing to the motion. by the Department of Justice, Amer- Senator from Nebraska (Mr. SASSE). The motion was agreed to. Further, if present and voting, the ican Indian women face murder rates The PRESIDING OFFICER. The that are more than 10 times the na- Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON) clerk will report the nomination. would have voted ‘‘yea’’ and the Sen- tional average. Let me repeat that. The senior assistant legislative clerk American Indian women face murder ator from Nebraska (Mr. SASSE) would read the nomination of Scott Gottlieb, rates 10 times the national average. If have voted ‘‘nay.’’ of Connecticut, to be Commissioner of Mr. SCHUMER. I announce that the this were the case in any other commu- Food and Drugs, Department of Health nity outside of Native communities, Senator from Illinois (Mr. DURBIN) is and Human Services. there would be public outcry, but there necessarily absent. CLOTURE MOTION hasn’t been until now. In fact, yester- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. day the Senate approved my resolution PERDUE). Are there any other Senators Mr. MCCONNELL. I send a cloture to designate May 5, Hanna Harris’s in the Chamber desiring to vote? motion to the desk. birthday, as a day of remembrance. It The result was announced—yeas 79, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- will be a day to join together to com- nays 18, as follows: ture motion having been presented under rule XXII, the Chair directs the memorate the lives of those we lost [Rollcall Vote No. 121 Leg.] clerk to read the motion. tragically, like Hanna. It is a day to YEAS—79 The senior assistant legislative clerk validate the pain Tribal communities Alexander Gillibrand Perdue read as follows: have felt and feel every day. It will Baldwin Harris Peters mark a national day of awareness for Barrasso CLOTURE MOTION Hassan Portman Native women and girls who have gone Bennet Hatch Reed We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- Blumenthal Heinrich Roberts ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the missing or have been murdered. Blunt Heitkamp Rounds I was joined by 12 of my colleagues in Booker Hirono Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby Rubio move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- passing this resolution to declare that Boozman Hoeven Sanders Brown Inhofe nation of Scott Gottlieb, of Connecticut, to the tragic loss of Native women and Schatz Burr Johnson be Commissioner of Food and Drugs, Depart- girls is not just an issue, it is an epi- Schumer Cantwell Kaine ment of Health and Human Services. demic, and I thank them for their sup- Capito King Shaheen Shelby Mitch McConnell, John Cornyn, Tom port. Cardin Klobuchar Cotton, Dan Sullivan, Shelley Moore Carper Lankford Stabenow Tomorrow, on Hanna’s birthday, I Casey Leahy Sullivan Capito, John Barrasso, Roger F. will walk with Melinda Limberhand Cassidy Manchin Tester Wicker, Mike Rounds, Orrin G. Hatch, Harris, Hanna’s mother, and with Trib- Cochran Markey Thune Bill Cassidy, Pat Roberts, Mike Crapo, al leadership, as well as members in Collins McCain Tillis Lamar Alexander, Richard Burr, John Coons McCaskill Udall Thune, Jerry Moran, James E. Risch. Lame Deer, MT, who have also lost a Cornyn McConnell Van Hollen mother, a daughter, a sister, or a Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Cortez Masto Menendez Warner friend. On May 5, we will remember Donnelly Merkley Warren ask unanimous consent that the man- Duckworth Moran RoyLynn Rides Horse, we will remem- Whitehouse datory quorum call with respect to the ber Kenzley Olson, and we will remem- Enzi Murkowski Wicker cloture motion be waived. Feinstein Murphy ber the thousands of other American Wyden The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Franken Murray Young Indian and Alaska Native women who Gardner Nelson objection? have been killed or have disappeared NAYS—18 Without objection, it is so ordered. without a trace. And we will remember C Corker Fischer Lee Mr. M CONNELL. I ask unanimous Hanna Harris on her birthday tomor- Cotton Flake Paul consent that notwithstanding rule row as we walk together in Lame Deer, Crapo Graham Risch XXII, the cloture vote on the Gottlieb MT. Cruz Grassley Scott nomination occur following disposition Daines Heller Strange Mr. President, I yield my time. Ernst Kennedy Toomey of the Wilson nomination on Monday, I suggest the absence of a quorum. May 8. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The NOT VOTING—3 The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there clerk will call the roll. Durbin Isakson Sasse objection? The senior assistant legislative clerk The motion was agreed to. Without objection, it is so ordered. proceeded to call the roll.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.032 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2762 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I will have no insurance to buy. Most of We will move ahead with deliberate ask unanimous consent that the order them will have subsidies from the gov- speed. We are doing that because the for the quorum call be rescinded. ernment. So it is like thousands of peo- exchanges are collapsing, people could The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ple in Iowa have bus tickets in a town be without insurance, and premiums objection, it is so ordered. where no buses run. will go up if we don’t act, but we want HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION That is what is happening right now to get it right. There will be no artifi- Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, the because of the 2010 law that we call the cial deadlines. We will carefully con- House of Representatives has just Affordable Care Act. I know this all too sider the legislation passed by the passed a bill that would make major well because 34,000 people in Knoxville, House. We will work together carefully changes in the Affordable Care Act by TN, my home area, are going to have to write our own bill. We will make a vote of 217 to 213. I congratulate the subsidies in 2018 but no insurance to sure we know what our bill costs when House. The Senate will carefully re- buy with their subsidies unless Con- we vote on it. In fact, by law, we have view the House bill, and we will go to gress acts. That is because of the 2010 to do that. We will get it right, and work on a Senate bill. law that we seek to change. In 2016, then we will vote. And hopefully, Mr. Here are my goals for a Senate bill. I last year, 7 percent of counties in the President, the end result will be sig- don’t pretend to speak for every Mem- United States had just one insurer of- nificant improvements for most Ameri- ber of the Senate or even every Repub- fering plans on their Affordable Care cans, giving them more choices of lican, but these are my goals for a bill Act exchanges. This year, 2017, that health insurance at a lower cost, and we will fashion here. number jumped to 32 percent. In one in do that by gradually transferring more No. 1, rescue the thousands of Ten- three counties in the United States, if decisions from Washington, DC, to the nesseans and millions of Americans you have a subsidy to buy insurance on states and to individuals. who, under the Affordable Care Act, the ObamaCare exchange, you had only I yield the floor. will be trapped in ObamaCare ex- one insurance company offering you in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- changes with few or zero options for surance. Five entire States have only ator from Louisiana. health insurance in the year 2018 unless one insurer offering ACA plans in their Mr. CASSIDY. Mr. President, I fol- Congress acts. entire State this year: Alabama, Alas- lowed the remarks of the Senator from My second goal is to lower premium ka, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Tennessee. We speak to the American costs. Premium costs have increased Wyoming. That is because of the Af- people in light of the House just voting and, in some States, are going through fordable Care Act passed in 2010. 217 to 213 to repeal and replace the roof under the Affordable Care Act. Unfortunately, every day we are ObamaCare. If there is somebody No. 3, gradually transfer to the states going to be hearing not just about in- watching right now, quite likely she is more flexibility in administering the surers leaving counties and States, but concerned about her healthcare pre- Medicaid program and do that in such about the ones that remain because miums. a way as to not pull the rug out from they are going to be charging sky-high On the campaign trail—I remember under those who rely on the Medicaid premiums. this so vividly—on the campaign trail program. Premiums went up by as much as 62 when I was running for the Senate, I No. 4, make sure those who have pre- percent this year in Tennessee and by was in Jefferson Parish, on Veterans existing health conditions have access 116 percent in Arizona. As the new rate Boulevard, and a woman named Tina to health insurance. This is one thing increases are proposed to the States came up. I am going to paraphrase in the Affordable Care Act that has over the next few weeks and months, what she said a little bit because this strong support from just about every- our constituents are going to be say- is a G-rated program. She said: My body, including the President, that if ing: What are you going to do about name is Tina, and I am angry. I am you have a preexisting condition, you that? So there is an urgency, but we paying $500 more a month, $6,000 more want to get it right. must have access to healthcare. We a year. My husband and I have no chil- So, again, here are my goals for the need to make sure that is still true in dren and I have had a hysterectomy, Senate bill we will write in the next any bill we create in the Senate. few weeks: and I am paying for pediatric dentistry There is some urgency here because No. 1, rescue—and ‘‘rescue’’ is not too and obstetrical benefits. I am angry. of what is happening in the individual strong a word—the millions of Ameri- If there is something right now that market. When we say ‘‘individual mar- cans across this country who are going the average middle-class voter is say- ket,’’ here is what we are talking to have few or zero insurance options ing about his or her insurance pre- about. Most Americans get their insur- in the year 2018 because of collapsing miums, it is that they are angry. They ance either from the government or on ObamaCare exchanges, unless Congress feel they are being forced by Wash- the job. About 18 percent of Americans acts. ington to buy things they do not need get their insurance through Medicare. No. 2, lower premium rates because, and sacrifice other parts of their budg- We are not talking about Medicare in many States, premiums are going et because if they do not, they know today. The bill in the House or the bill through the roof under the Affordable the Federal Government will come we will create in the Senate does not Care Act. after them with the force of law, penal- affect Medicare. No. 3, gradually transfer to States izing their family, and they do not About 60 percent of Americans get more flexibility in managing their want that. their insurance on the job and about 20 Medicaid programs. About 18 percent of So what can we do? First, we ac- percent or so through Medicaid, and Americans get their insurance on Med- knowledge, as the House has, that that leaves about 6 percent who go into icaid. We will do so in a way that does ObamaCare is not working. Premiums an Obamacare market to buy it. Many not pull the rug out from under those are going up 20 to 40 percent per year. of these Americans buy their insurance who are currently served by Medicaid. In Eleven States, so I am told, indi- on marketplaces or exchanges created Finally, preexisting conditions— vidual markets are in a death spiral. by the Affordable Care Act. We call make sure Americans who have insur- I could go through that, which we al- those the ObamaCare exchanges. About ance for preexisting conditions con- ready know. President Trump knew it. 85 percent of those who buy their insur- tinue to have access to it. If you are on As Candidate Trump, President Trump ance on the exchanges have a govern- Medicaid or if you are on Medicare or, pledged four major things: ment subsidy to help them buy the in- in almost every case, if you get insur- No. 1, he pledged to eliminate man- surance. ance on the job, you have insurance for dates. The Senate is committed to As every day goes by, we hear and we preexisting conditions. Under the Af- working with the House and the Presi- are going to continue to hear about in- fordable Care Act in 2010, there had to dent to eliminate those mandates. surance companies pulling out of coun- be insurance for people with pre- Washington, DC, should not tell you ties and States. Yesterday we heard existing conditions. We want to make what to do. that the only insurer left in Iowa is sure that those Americans continue to No. 2, he pledged to care for those now likely to leave. That means more have access if they have a preexisting with preexisting reasons. As Senator than 70,000 people on the exchanges condition. ALEXANDER said, it is something that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.043 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2763 touches every family. The President course it is in the interest of the pa- Go back to ExxonMobil. Let’s imag- was particularly concerned about those tient that he or she who has cancer is ine they have 50,000 employees. If they whose preexisting condition was opioid able to get care for their cancer. have 50,000 employees and 10 of them addiction. We have to recognize that Jimmy Kimmel just spoke about his get cancer, have liver transplants, ter- they will not get better unless they re- son being born with a congential heart rible car wrecks, or accidents, their ceive treatment. It is better to treat condition. He would have quickly died. premiums don’t even blip. Because you than it is to incarcerate or to bury. So Mr. Kimmel choked up as he spoke spread the cost of these expensive ill- we must honor the President’s pledge about it. Well, shouldn’t every family nesses over the many, all benefit, and there. have the reassurance that their child cost is held down. He also pledged to cover all and to born in such a way would also have So when President Trump pledged to lower premiums. It is this last I wish their needs addressed? I was struck preserve coverage, he was recognizing to focus on now. that Nick Mulvaney, President that nexus between having a big risk How do we lower premiums? How do Trump’s OMB Director, agreed with pool and lowering that premium. we say to Tina, who 2 years ago was Mr. Kimmel. This is not a Republican Let me finish by saying this: My paying $500 more a month, that her issue, not a Democratic issue; it is an commitment to Tina and my commit- premium will be lower? Well, there are American issue. But it is also in soci- ment to the voters of Louisiana and several ways. Let me focus first on low- ety’s interest. the people of the United States is to ering the cost of care. I am a physician. I worked in a public try to lower premiums. They cannot af- Right now, healthcare is way too ex- hospital for the uninsured for 30 years. ford the un-Affordable Care Act. The pensive. If you go in for an urgent care I tell folks, as long as that emergency way we can do that, which I have out- visit, you may pay $1,500 in one urgent room door was open, no matter what lined today, includes empowering pa- care center and $50 in another. As a pa- time, day or night, in through that tients with the knowledge of price to tient, you do not know. You would door came folks who had all kinds of lower the cost of healthcare; encour- never buy a car that way. Can you healthcare conditions. Some of them aging coverage that manages those imagine walking into a car dealership, would come every week. Some of them who are sick so that those who are sick picking your car, and then saying: Bill would come twice a week. We called stay well and are less likely to con- me 6 months from now, and I will pay them frequent fliers. They may have sume expensive emergency room care, whatever you ask. No one would do been addicted or mentally ill. They as an example, but are also more likely that. We shouldn’t ask the average pa- may have had terrible diabetes which to live full, vibrant lives; and lastly, tient to do it because when we hide was fully controlled or bad asthma, and restoring what is called actuarial those costs from the patient, we do not they would come in with an exacer- soundness, the law of big numbers, a allow her to be a informed consumer. bation and could not breathe. Every risk poll in which if one of us gets can- Lacking information, she inevitably time they came in, there was a $2,000 to cer, that cost is spread over many. pays more. $20,000 charge—every time. But if you Mr. President, if we manage to lower So one thing I have proposed, along manage that patient through a pri- premiums, we will fulfill our promise to the American people, and I look for- with Senator COLLINS and four other mary care office or an attached urgent Senators—Senators from South Caro- care center, what you are charging ward to working with my colleagues to lina, South Dakota, Georgia, and West $2,000 for here, you can manage for $150 fulfill that promise. Mr. President, I yield the floor. Virginia—is price transparency, which there. Not only that, when you manage Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I is to say that when someone goes in to it for $150 there, if that person actually suggest the absence of a quorum. get their daughter’s ear ache ad- works, she is more likely to hold a job, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The dressed, they know what it would cost more likely to support her family, less clerk will call the roll. at this urgent care center versus an- likely to go on dependence, more likely The senior assistant legislative clerk other. to pay taxes. Society wins as she wins. proceeded to call the roll. A good example of exactly what I am That should be our goal. So another Mr. GARDNER. Mr. President, I ask talking about—there was an article in way to lower premiums is to actively unanimous consent that the order for the Los Angeles Times a few years ago manage the cost of disease. the quorum call be rescinded. about the cash price of a CT scan in the People always say: We want govern- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. CAS- Los Angeles Basin. It would vary from ment to run like a business. Let me de- SIDY). Without objection, it is so or- $250 to $2,500, and the person pur- scribe what happens in a large corpora- dered. chasing the service with cash would tion. Take ExxonMobil. You will find NORTHEAST COLORADO FIRES never know. that ExxonMobil has an insurance Mr. GARDNER. Mr. President, I I envision a time when someone company, a third-party administrator. come to the floor today to talk about takes their smart phone and they scan They look at someone who is a high- the recent impact of prairie fires in a barcode, and the barcode says: You cost employee, and they actively en- northeastern Colorado. A lot of times can go at midnight on Thursday and gage in managing that patient’s illness when you turn on the national news in get a CT scan of your daughter for $250 so that, one, they are better, but, two, the spring, summer, or fall, you might or you can go right now and pay $2,500. they lower cost. We as a government see fires in Colorado, but most of the You look at a quality code, and both should do that, which a responsible em- time those fires are located in western have equal quality. I can see the moth- ployer does as well. Colorado in the mountains. er turning to her daughter and saying The last thing I want to mention is We have had some horrible fires in ‘‘Baby, we are staying up Thursday that the way to lower premiums is by recent years. The past decade has been night’’ because that mother knows she expanding coverage. When Candidate littered with far too many fires of can take care of her family’s financial Trump said he wanted to lower pre- great consequence to our environment, health, as well as her daughter’s miums and preserve coverage, he un- to families, and to homes—and the health, just by being an informed con- derstood that the two are linked. If you damage they have caused. Oftentimes sumer. have a big risk pool—and a risk pool is we don’t see as much in the news about So one way we lower premiums is by just the folks who are insured. Every- fires in other parts of the State, includ- lowering the cost of healthcare, and body who has insurance—that is called ing the Eastern Plains of Colorado, the the way we lower the cost of the risk pool. If it is big, with lots of Great Plains and prairies. healthcare is by empowering patients young folks who are in their twenties, At the end of March, Logan and Phil- with the knowledge of price. others in their thirties and forties, and lips Counties saw a blaze that burned The second way we can manage to then a few folks like me in their fifties, 32,000 acres, destroying homes, harm- lower the cost of premiums is to take if someone gets sick, you spread the ex- ing cattle and farm operations, and care of those who are sick. The Senator pense of that one over the many. Par- shutting down a key interstate cor- from Tennessee ended by speaking ticularly if the many include the ridor. To put 32,000 acres into perspec- about our commitment to care for younger and healthier, there is a sub- tive, in 2016, the largest fire in Colo- those with preexisting conditions. Of sidy for the older and sicker. rado was the Beaver Creek fire near

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.045 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2764 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Walden, burning tens of thousands of in northeastern Colorado and know and House Agriculture Committees for acres over the course of 3 months. The how fast they move and how indis- holding hearings on the next farm bill, fire burned about 38,000 acres. The fire criminate they are in their destruc- and I look forward to conducting our burning 32,000 acres in northeastern tion. own roundtables and listening sessions Colorado took only about 24 hours of I also know the challenges people to talk about and to learn about and to time. So we had 38,000 acres burn in 3 now face in Phillips and Logan Coun- listen to how we can make a difference. months, and 32,000 acres in north- ties as they try to recover in the Federal policy certainty with a long- eastern Colorado burned in 24 hours. In spring, but I can confidently say that term farm policy is essential for farm- both cases, these were incredibly dan- the community is recovering. Accord- ers and ranchers. gerous situations to land, people, and ing to local agronomist, Dave Gibson: The second thing we must do is to those around them. Within six days of the fire, 85 percent of provide regulatory relief. We have al- These images from the Denver Post the cropland was planted with oats to pre- ready repealed about $85 billion worth paint a frightening picture of the dev- vent soil erosion with neighbors volun- of regulations over the last 3 months. astation the area faced. We can look at teering to help and donate. It was an amaz- That is an incredible feat to relieve the these pictures here. You can see what ing effort. American economy from the harm and happened with the dirt, debris, smoke, My office has been in communication pressure of $85 billion worth of regu- and weather that was created by the with State and Federal officials, along latory overreach. By relieving the fire, and you can see the damage and with those impacted, to ensure we are American business community of that what happened. You can see the dam- doing everything possible to assist in $85 billion worth of regulations and re- age to property here. this process. lieving the American family of that I want to go back to the earlier pic- Those from northeastern Colorado pressure as well, it also means we have ture and talk about some of the other are dependent upon agriculture for been able to reduce paperwork by 54 impacts we saw. You can see the fire- their way of life. Two-thirds of Colo- million hours. men from eastern Colorado working to rado’s agricultural production comes Imagine that: $85 billion worth of protect property, trying to stop the from the South Platte River valley, regulatory reductions means there is 54 fire before it reached the homestead. those areas considered to be in north- million hours of paperwork that no You can see someone with a tractor, eastern Colorado. I have spoken on the longer has to be completed. Instead, and they are trying to disc up the Senate floor about the difficult times that money, time, and effort can be in- ground, trying to create a firebreak. these farmers are facing outside of the vested in growing opportunities and People from around eastern Colorado, context of national disasters. When following up on sales leads and making northeastern Colorado were getting times are already tough, seeing your that money work for the business and into their tractors, getting their till- land and cattle operation burned up in family instead of just for the govern- age equipment, their chisels, discs, and a prairie fire makes things even worse. ment. sweeps to try to break up the ground to It is during these challenging times in When it comes to agriculture, the create a firebreak so that maybe they agriculture, whether it is the impact of regulatory relief to address this next could stop the fire. I commend the first fire or low commodity prices, that we American farm crisis—some of that responders for containing this fire and are reminded of the need for effective regulatory relief, the $85 billion, in- preventing any loss of life while also leadership. cludes measures such as repealing the preventing other fire hotspots from I was pleased this last week when the Bureau of Land Management 2.0 rule or breaking out into larger, devastating Chamber came together in a bipartisan finally getting the waters of the United blazes because of the work they did. fashion to confirm Governor Sonny States regulation out of the way. That In the middle of these fires, I remem- Perdue of Georgia as our Secretary of is the kind of regulatory relief we have ber talking to a county commissioner Agriculture. Senators on both sides of to continue to pursue. from Logan County, and he described the aisle recognized that supporting To those who may not know what the situation where they had tried to our Nation’s farmers and ranchers is waters of the United States regulation create a firebreak with their road grad- not a partisan issue. did, let’s take an example in Colorado. ers and the farmers in the field trying It is my hope that we can support Under the EPA’s own study, two-thirds to disc up the ground to stop the fire Secretary Perdue to expeditiously con- of Colorado waterways are described or from moving. firm the rest of his team at USDA be- defined as intermittent flow. Intermit- I remember vividly when the county cause we need it in agriculture. Wheth- tent flow means they don’t have water commissioner told me that at a certain er it is the FSA or a crop insurance in them year-round. But according to time of the day he had to make a phone issue as a result of a fire or a situation the government, they would be consid- call that he would never forget in his relating to trade and how we are going ered navigable waterways. I don’t know life. He called the county commis- to address low commodity prices, the how you get anything to float down a sioners from the neighboring county Secretary of Agriculture needs a team dry river, but apparently the EPA can. and said that the fire was moving that around him. Congress must work with That $85 billion of regulatory relief in- way. He said: Hey, I want you to know, Secretary Perdue to address this crisis cludes stopping the waters of the Logan County is unable to stop the in agriculture. United States rule. We have to con- fire. It is coming your way. I am sorry; In Colorado, we have seen net farm tinue to peel back the burdensome reg- it is in your hands now. incomes drop 80 percent since the ulations on American agriculture. Imagine that phone call. This hor- record highs of 2011. If you look at this The third thing we have to address is rible thing that has happened in your headline, this was in the Wall Street access to finance. Finance is critical to county is also spreading to the next Journal some weeks ago. The headline any farmer. There is an old joke, an old county, and you can’t do anything says: ‘‘The Next American Farm Bust saying that if you go out to a farmer— about it, despite the incredible efforts Is Upon Us.’’ That is because if you and they may know this already—and and acts of heroism to try to stop it. look at just the State of Colorado ask: How do you make a small fortune Fire departments from across Colo- alone, there has been a drop of 80 per- in agriculture? The answer is that you rado came to northeastern Colorado in cent in farm income from the record start with a large one. I think it is that part of the State to stand along- highs of 2011. That is net farm income time we fixed that. side local firefighters to get this fire down 80 percent. Wouldn’t it be nice if people weren’t under control. Dozens of agencies and I believe this Congress needs to act just relying on the bank, but they departments responded. with a four-pronged approach. could actually produce enough money Being from Yuma County, south of First, we need a long-term farm pol- to help them into the future, to help where this fire took place, I know how icy in place. With the farm bill expir- them thrive, prosper, grow, and bring alarming and unforgiving these fast- ing in September of 2018, Congress in new generations of family? During moving prairie fires can be on the must begin negotiating about how we difficult economic times, when we are farmers, ranchers, and communities in are going to move forward in a respon- facing incredible challenges and low their path. I fought prairie fires as well sible fashion. I commend the Senate commodity prices, we do need to have

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.047 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2765 access to financing. Whether it is didn’t budget enough money to fight months, and it was set to expire this through the community bank or banks the fires, and it turns around and coming week. on Wall Street or the Farm Credit starts cannibalizing other areas of This appropriations bill provides cer- Union or farm credit system, farmers, spending that could actually have been tainty to these coal mining families. ranchers, and those in agriculture need used to help reduce the next forest fire. Because of this bill, they will keep the access to financing to get through this We have to end the practice of fire bor- healthcare they earned through their difficult time. rowing, and we have to work with Sec- years of hard work. That production loan, that operating retary Perdue as head of the U.S. For- I worked closely with my West Vir- loan is how they make it from season est Service within the Department of ginia colleague, Senator JOE MANCHIN, to season, harvest to harvest, and Agriculture to end wildfire borrowing as well as our Representatives—Rep- planting to planting to make sure they and to improve forest and land man- resentatives DAVID MCKINLEY, EVAN have the ability to stay on the farm. agement to prevent these uncontrol- JENKINS, and ALEX MOONEY—to get this Right now we have a system that I am lable fires that we have seen. permanent miners’ healthcare fix in- worried about—a financial regulatory Supporting those impacted by fires, cluded in the bill. system in place that perhaps a farmer whether it is in the forest or around I also want to particularly thank our walks into a bank one day, a bank they the prairie, is something we should all majority leader, Senator MITCH have been doing business with for 100 be able to get behind. In Logan and MCCONNELL, for his leadership on be- years, and they have never missed a Phillips Counties, neighbors banded to- half of the miners in West Virginia and payment, but all of a sudden, based on gether. They worked to recover and re- in his home State of Kentucky, and the some Washington, DC, formulary, they build from the devastation shown on rest of Appalachia. I would also like to can no longer get the loan they need to these images. It has happened for gen- thank my fellow Republican from the keep them into the next year, even erations in eastern Colorado and across State of Ohio, Senator ROB PORTMAN, though that bank in their hometown this country. When there is a crisis, who was a champion for those miners on Main Street knows they will be able when there is a tragedy, neighbors help as well. to make that payment. their neighbors. You can see it in these But, most importantly, I would like What we have created is a system pictures. But we can also help our to thank the miners from across coal and financial regulations that are neighbors here in Washington, DC, and country who came to Washington to going to make it impossible for some of across our country’s vast farmlands by advocate for their healthcare benefits. these farmers to work out the crisis doing what is right in addressing these I met with dozens—probably hundreds, that is upon them. I sent a letter 2 challenges. Just as Logan County and over the course of the years—of West weeks ago to the Consumer Financial Phillips County banded together, we Virginia miners in my office over the Protection Bureau, requesting a review should band together with American last several years. of all regulations potentially inhib- agriculture. Last September, miners came by the iting rural access to finance. It is my hope that Congress can learn thousands to the west front of the Cap- The fourth thing we have to get right from the lessons taught in the after- itol and stood for hours in just excruci- is trade opportunity for American agri- math of these difficult situations to atingly hot conditions. These miners culture. With corn and wheat prices come together, support rural commu- and their families put a human face on near 10-year lows, the most obvious so- nities, support agriculture, and make the issue. They are the reason—they lution is to open up more international sure we support our fire response ef- are the reason—that we have a success- markets for agriculture to continue to forts, importantly, to prevent that ful result today. look for new opportunities to export next catastrophic fire. Many of these miners have shared American agricultural products over- Mr. President, I yield the floor. their stories with me through letters seas. The price of commodities for a I suggest the absence of a quorum. and emails and personal stories and bushel of corn is about the same price The PRESIDING OFFICER. The visits, and I want to share just a few of today as it was back when I was born clerk will call the roll. their thoughts. in 1974. Opening up trade opportunities, The senior assistant legislative clerk Brenda, a coal miner’s widow from opening new markets will give us the proceeded to call the roll. West Virginia, wrote that continued value-added opportunity to help get Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. President, I ask healthcare coverage presented a life or more for that bushel of corn. unanimous consent that the order for death situation for her. She wrote: Some of the greatest opportunities the quorum call be rescinded. I have medical problems, which require lie in Asia—50 percent of global popu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without monthly doctor visits and prescriptions and lation, 50 percent of GDP in the near objection, it is so ordered. I will no longer be able to see my doctors— future. Those are markets we have to GOVERNMENT FUNDING LEGISLATION nor afford the prescriptions should our open up in U.S. agriculture. Those are Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. President, earlier health insurance be taken away. markets that already have access in today, the Senate voted to pass the Alfred, a retired West Virginia coal many cases to U.S. markets, but if we Omnibus appropriations bill for 2017. miner wrote: want to sell products there, sometimes This bill is a product of bipartisan We were not given our health benefits as a we are hit with tariffs. That is not fair. negotiations and hard work on the part gift. We worked hard in the mines every day We have to make sure we are reducing of our Appropriations Committee, of for a long time, and it was backbreaking, the tariffs we face when we go into which I am proud to be a member, and year-to-year. their markets because they seem to the leadership of both of our parties. Howard, another retiree, wrote that have unfettered access into ours much I am encouraged by the over- he worked in the West Virginia coal of the time. whelming support for this important mines for 41 years to earn this promise Those are all measures we can ad- legislation that reflects our Nation’s of healthcare benefits. dress. The four things are long-term priorities and funds the government in William, also a retired West Virginia farm policies, regulatory relief, access a responsible way. I am very pleased— miner, wrote that he has had several to financing, trade opportunities that and I can’t emphasize this enough; very surgeries, including one on New Year’s work for the American farmers and pleased—that the bill includes a bipar- Day, 2017. The possible expiration of ranchers. tisan provision that keeps the promise health benefits and the thought of tem- Those recent fires in northeast Colo- of lifetime healthcare benefits for porary benefit extensions left him wor- rado, as well as fires in past years in 22,000 coal miners and their families, ried about whether he would be able to Colorado and across the West, are an- including 8,500 West Virginians—my access necessary followup medical care other reminder of the need to address home State. for his surgery. wildfire borrowing. Wildfire borrowing Bankruptcies in the coal industry After learning that permanent is a process where the Department of meant that these miners would have healthcare would be included in this Agriculture’s Forest Service spends lost their critical health insurance cov- bill, Gisele wrote: money that it has budgeted for the erage at the end of last year. We passed Tonight I will rest soundly knowing that fires. It runs out of money because it that little, short-term extension for 4 we will be able to afford our medicines.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.048 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2766 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 For Brenda, Alfred, William, Howard, In addition to these important treat- something called the National Day of Gisele, and thousands of other miners ment resources, we have also funded Prayer. It started in 1988. It was an of- and widows across West Virginia, this important enforcement and prevention ficial day on this day, the first Thurs- bill keeps the promise of lifetime aspects of the problem as well, includ- day of May. But in the 1950s, Harry healthcare. ing $50 million for the Department of Truman started this process of a na- There is more work to be done to pro- Veterans Affairs for opioid and sub- tional day of prayer. So it far precedes tect the pension benefits of our retired stance abuse for the treatment of our that. miners and to bring jobs back to coal veterans. This is a real problem for our Our Nation has a rich and beautiful country, to areas that have been hit returning veterans who have addiction history in prayer. Members of the hard by the previous administration’s issues. There are funds to implement House and Senate, as the Presiding Of- policies. But the permanent healthcare the Jason Simcakoski act that Senator ficer knows, open the day every day in this bill is a critical victory for our BALDWIN and I introduced. with a prayer. It has been that way coal mining families and the commu- Unfortunately, West Virginia is the from the very beginning. Even the first nities where they live. epicenter of the opioid crisis that has Continental Congress on September 7, I would also like to quote a young struck communities across the coun- 1774, opened in prayer. man who sent me an email. I met him try. Passage of this appropriations bill Tonight, Americans will gather in at a Chick-fil-A on a Saturday—not a will make a difference—a big dif- Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol to Sunday, of course, on a Saturday. We ference—for people who are struggling celebrate the National Day of Prayer. struck up a little friendship, and the to overcome addiction and to help our Statuary Hall was once the House of day he learned that this was in the bill, States that are financially strapped Representatives, where the House gath- he texted me and said: and our local communities combat this ered. It was also the largest gathering Senator, I met you in the Chick-fil-A. terrible problem. place in Washington, DC, and many Thank you, you have now secured the bene- Another area of significance to a lot churches for years met in Statuary fits for my Paw Paw. of people in my State and across the Hall to be able to pray. It was the com- I thought it was such a heartfelt country is the increase in the funding mon meeting place. In fact, for a period message that he sent to me—a new for the National Institutes of Health. of time in the early 1800s, four church- friend of mine who had been struggling There is a $400 million increase for Alz- es a Sunday used at that time the along trying to figure out a way to heimer’s research—something impor- House of Representatives Chamber— help his grandfather. what is now known as Statuary Hall— There are a number of other impor- tant to me, as I lost both of my parents who suffered from Alzheimer’s, this as their place for worship. tant priorities in this bill as well. Min- Thomas Jefferson worshipped there. terrible disease. We need to find not ing communities will also be helped by In fact, every President from Thomas just treatments, but we need to find a tens of millions of dollars across dif- Jefferson all the way to Abraham Lin- cure, and I think NIH is where we are ferent agencies to help us retrain our coln attended church on Sundays in going to find it. miners who have lost their jobs. Statuary Hall, what was at that time There are many other reasons to sup- This bill also includes a significant the House of Representatives Chamber. port this bill. It has additional flood re- investment in new fossil energy re- That is an interesting fact. I have search, including carbon capture and lief for our devastated flood areas. I had folks talk about Thomas Jeffer- sequestration. These funds will help know the Presiding Officer has major son’s statement about the wall of sepa- spur the development of new markets floods in Louisiana, and we had them ration between church and state. That for coal to keep coal mining jobs for in West Virginia, and we have had was actually in a letter Thomas Jeffer- years to come. them across the country. son wrote to the Danbury Baptist Asso- The appropriations bill also includes Just to mention a few other things, ciation, saying they would not allow funding increases for rural broadband this bill includes a pay increase for our the State to take over churches—that deployment, something I have been troops, which is so important. They are there would be this wall of separation very concerned about, as well as con- on the frontlines. between church and state. Two days The bill also works on scientific re- tinued funding for the Appalachian Re- after President Jefferson wrote that gional Commission. Access to search for our educational institutions, statement, he attended church in the broadband is absolutely critical for something important to our univer- House of Representatives Chamber on a economic development and improved sities in West Virginia. Sunday. access to health and education oppor- But, most of all, I just want to voice Even earlier, at our Constitutional tunities in our rural communities, and my appreciation for the bipartisan Convention in 1787, Benjamin Franklin we are sadly underserved. There is work by the members of the appropria- stated: ‘‘In the beginning of the Con- much work to be done to bring access tions committees, who worked hard to test with Great Britain, when we were to high-speed internet to many com- get this bill where we are. It is a re- sensible of danger, we had daily prayer munities, but this bill is a positive sponsible bill. It is a commonsense bill. in this room for Divine protection.’’ step. It sets our priorities. Today, because of Many U.S. Presidents have signed As chairman of the Financial Serv- the fact that we passed it with support proclamations for national prayer ices and General Government Appro- from both parties, I believe it will since 1799, from George Washington all priations Subcommittee, I am glad achieve a positive result for our coun- the way to the present. that we included increased funding for try. The National Day of Prayer is a good the Drug-Free Communities Support I suggest the absence of a quorum. day for us to be able to reflect as a Na- Program and the High Intensity Drug The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tion and to be able to remember well Trafficking Area Program, or the clerk will call the roll. that there are many people of faith in HITDA Program. Unfortunately, cas- The bill clerk proceeded to call the our country that do believe there is a cading across this country is the dev- roll. Creator God and that he has made a astating problem of prescription drug Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, I ask difference in our own personal lives and abuse, opioid abuse, and heroin addic- unanimous consent that the order for he has made a difference in our Nation. tion. The Labor, Health and Human the quorum call be rescinded. We go back to President Truman’s Services, and Education portion of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without statement. He said in 1952: ‘‘The Presi- bill includes an $800 million increase to objection, it is so ordered. dent shall set aside and proclaim a combat opioid addiction. This includes NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER suitable day each year, other than a the $500 million authorized for the 21st Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, it is Sunday, as a National Day of Prayer, Century Cures Act to help States with a busy day. There is a lot going on in on which the people of the United their response to the crisis. It also in- Washington, DC. Quite frankly, at States may turn to God in prayer and cludes an increase for medication-as- home there is a lot going on in homes, meditation in churches, in groups, and sisted treatment programs and for families, and lives. Today is also a as individuals.’’ other programs outlined by the CARA unique day for America as well. It is As I mentioned, in 1988, President bill that we passed last summer. the one day that we as a nation have Reagan even affirmed that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.049 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2767 I don’t think I could find very many they choose to. It reminds me of the said he had respect for the Bible and Americans who would say we are run- sovereignty of God. Below it is a paint- read the Bible and had respect for ning out of things to pray for: debt; ing of those same hands sitting at that faith, but he just personally didn’t anger in the Nation; conversation same bowl holding it, but this time the practice it. In his earliest campaigns, about hard, difficult issues that we bowl is done. It is full of water. There he was really challenged by that and face; terrorism and threats of violence is a towel in it, and there are feet only narrowly won at times. In fact, he from around the world. We are not out around the bowl. It reminds me of the lost some of his campaigns, and he had of things to pray for. Far from it. But call to serve that we all have—to be attributed losing those campaigns to people of faith believe that, regardless able to serve people in the most hum- people having challenged him that he of the obstacles we face, there is a God ble of ways. It reminds me that there is was anti-faith. that we can call out to who hears us a God, and that He has called us to a But then we read his words when he and who cares about our daily lives. He task. Part of that task is to pray. was President of the United States, and is not a God who just created and The National Day of Prayer is not a we find a person who was on a journey walked away. He is a God whom we can mandate from the Federal Government with God. It wasn’t anti-faith. He just know, and we feel confident that God that all people should pray—far from didn’t practice faith. knows and loves us. it. It is just a reminder. It is a re- But listen to these words in 1863 from Philippians 4:6 says: ‘‘Do not be anx- minder for people of faith who choose President Lincoln. He proclaimed a Na- ious about anything, but in everything to pray that this is a good day when we tional Day of Prayer, as every Presi- by prayer and supplication with can reset to be able to pray for our Na- dent before him has, and he wrote this: thanksgiving let your requests be made tion and for our leaders. It is an ac- We have been the recipients of the choicest known to God.’’ knowledgement, quite frankly, that bounties of Heaven. We have been preserved, I am always encouraged when I trav- millions of people of faith believe in these many years, in peace and in prosperity. el around Oklahoma and around the God and that those individuals believe We have grown in numbers, wealth, and Nation. I even ran into some people that God hears our prayers and re- power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgot- this week who stopped me in the hall- sponds. So thus we should pray. ten the gracious hand which preserved us in way and just said: ‘‘I want you to know Culturally, it is fascinating to me to peace, and multiplied and enriched and I’ll pray for you.’’ be able to talk to people about prayer. strengthened us; and we have vainly imag- I encourage Americans to pray for I ran into some people that find it per- ined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that the President, for the Vice President, fectly permissible in times of great all these blessings were produced by some su- for their Cabinet, for the Supreme struggle and anguish to pray, but in perior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxi- Court, for Members of the Senate and times of thanksgiving, it seems odd. cated with unbroken success, we have be- of the House, for the staff who serve Let me give a for instance. come too self-sufficient to feel the necessity around us and with us and serve people A couple of years ago, a football of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us! It behooves around this country, for our military, coach in our country was fired from his us then, to humble ourselves before the of- and for first responders. The list could job because at the end of a football fended Power, to confess our national sins, go on and on of people who set aside game he would kneel down after the and to pray for clemency and forgiveness. their time and their life to be able to game was over and thank God for the That is a man who was on a journey serve. It is not an unreasonable request safety of his players. For that, he was with God, who came to the Presidency to be able to say: Pray for them; ask released from his job because, for some as a person of no faith, who understood God to continue to protect them. reason, Americans don’t accept prayers the responsibilities, and his heart dra- It is amazing to me how many Chris- of thanksgiving. But at those same matically changed. tians I bump into of my own faith who football games, if a player was injured It is a good day for us to reflect on find it easier to complain about gov- and the coaches and players were to this National Day of Prayer. I would ernment than it is to pray for those in kneel down, the crowd would see that encourage the Nation, if they choose, government. I think that is an issue we as a good sign of respect—that we re- to be able to watch and join in or to need to fix, and today is a good day to spect someone who is injured, and it is just quietly be able to pray on their begin that, on this National Day of entirely reasonable to pray when there own, to remember again that those of Prayer. is an injury on the field but maybe not us who pray for others should probably I remember well, personally, that I if it is just a prayer of thanksgiving. spend some time praying for ourselves grew up around the church. My mom It is an odd season for us as a nation, as well. At times, as we criticize oth- dragged me to church. I mean it. She trying to figure out who we are and ers, we should probably self-evaluate made me go. But I remember ex- what we believe and if Americans of and ask the simple question: Do we live tremely well sitting in the balcony of faith can live their faith. I would chal- the values that we demand of others? the church one Sunday and actually lenge us as a country, for those of us It is a good day to pray. Later to- paying attention to our pastor as he who have faith, to be able to live our night, I will stand in that historic would read through Scriptures. Prob- faith with integrity and with consist- Statuary Hall where Presidents and ably for the first time in my life, I ency, and on a National Day of Prayer Members of Congress and individuals started actually thinking about this like this, to remind our Nation that have prayed for a long time, and I will one simple truth: There is a God, and I there are millions of people of faith but read Daniel, Chapter 9 to the group, don’t know Him. that there are also millions of people which reads: I couldn’t shake that reality. Laying that have no faith at all. They are also Now, our God, hear the prayers and peti- in bed late that Sunday night by my- Americans, and they are also to be re- tions of your servant. For your sake, Lord, self, I remember praying—probably for spected because many people are on a look with favor on your desolate sanctuary. me, for the first time in my life, actu- journey with God. Give ear, our God, and hear us. ally praying. And I prayed a very sim- There are many people who don’t It is a similar prayer that many of us ple 8-year-old prayer. My prayer was practice faith at all today that con- pray in gatherings all over this Capitol this: God, I don’t know You, but I know sider simple things in their life. Their every week. Members of the House and I have done things wrong in my life and financial house may be in order. Their the Senate and staff quietly find places I need Your forgiveness. Would You family life may be in order. But their in this building to pray. It is not a bad come into my life and take control? spiritual life remains a vacuum, and idea for the Nation to join us. It was the beginning point for me— they are, quite frankly, trying to fig- Hear, O God, our prayer. We need just the most simple of ways for me to ure that out. Your help. begin a relationship with God, trusting I am always interested in the stories Mr. President, I yield back. in His forgiveness and His ability to of Abraham Lincoln. Abraham Lincoln I suggest the absence of a quorum. forgive. in his earliest political campaigns was The PRESIDING OFFICER. The I have in my office two paintings chastised that he was anti-faith or that clerk will call the roll. that hang. One painting is the hands of he was secretly an atheist because he The bill clerk proceeded to call the a potter at a wheel, shaping the clay as never attended church everywhere. He roll.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.050 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2768 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I AIDS is no longer a death sentence. I am proud that this bill increases ask unanimous consent that the order Polio and smallpox are all but eradi- funding to support critical transpor- for the quorum call be rescinded. cated in this country. We are closer tation infrastructure projects in Illi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without than ever to developing a universal in- nois, despite President Trump’s calls to objection, it is so ordered. fluenza vaccine, to rebuilding parts of eliminate funding for some of our most f the human heart without needing to important transportation programs rely on transplants, and to finding new The capital investment grant program, LEGISLATIVE SESSION and effective therapies to delay the which President Trump has proposed to onset of neurological diseases like Alz- eliminate, allows communities to com- MORNING BUSINESS heimer’s and Parkinson’s. These med- pete for funding to build and improve ical breakthroughs will not happen subway, commuter rail, light rail, bus Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I without sustained, robust Federal rapid transit projects through New ask unanimous consent that the Sen- funding for medical research supported Starts, Small Starts, and Core Capac- ate be in a period of morning business, by the NIH. ity grants. This program was increased with Senators permitted to speak President Trump’s disastrous budget by $236 million in this bill to $2.4 bil- therein for up to 10 minutes each. proposals for fiscal years 2017 and 2018 lion with $100 million in Core Capacity The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without would have slashed NIH’s budget by funds specifically allocated to help objection, it is so ordered. nearly 20 percent, bringing NIH to its fund the Chicago Transit Authority’s (At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the lowest funding level in 15 years. I am modernization of the red and purple following statement was ordered to be pleased that Congress came together lines. printed in the RECORD.) on a bipartisan basis to protect the The Transportation Investment Gen- f NIH, and I want to thank my colleague erating Economic Recovery, TIGER, VOTE EXPLANATION Senator BLUNT, chairman of the Labor, grant program, which Illinois has re- Health and Human Services, and Edu- lied on repeatedly to help fund transit, ∑ Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I was cation and Related Agencies Sub- highway, and bridge projects through- necessarily absent for the vote on the committee, for his efforts to provide out our State, was also protected from motion to concur in the House message this vital funding. I will be working elimination in this bill. As a result of to accompany H.R. 244. hard to ensure that NIH gets another bipartisan support for this program, Il- On vote No. 121, had I been present, I significant funding increase for fiscal linois will now be able to compete for would have voted yea on the motion to year 2018. the $500 million in TIGER funds in- concur in the House message to accom- While I am encouraged that this bill cluded in this bill. pany H.R. 244. includes $7.3 billion for the Centers for Funding for federal highway and I want to take a few minutes to ac- Disease Control and Prevention, or transit formula grants to States was knowledge today’s bipartisan passage CDC, it is my hope that Congress will increased in this bill to the full funding of the Omnibus appropriations bill to find a way to work together on a bipar- levels authorized in the 2015 bipartisan fund the government through the end tisan basis to provide the CDC with FAST Act. As a result, $43.2 billion in of the 2017 fiscal year. While I am dis- even greater funding increases in the highway funding, a $905 million in- appointed that the bill’s passage comes years to come. crease, and $9.3 billion in transit fund- more than halfway through the fiscal The CDC has so many important re- ing, a $753 million increase, will be pro- year, the bill that was sent to the sponsibilities—from combating pre- vided to States around the country to President today is the product of scription drug abuse and fighting infec- improve and maintain their roads and months of bipartisan work by the ap- tious disease outbreaks globally to pre- public transportation. Federal funding propriations committees on both sides venting diabetes and protecting pa- comprises 80 percent of the funds in- of Capitol Hill and represents how Con- tients from antibiotic resistant cluded in the Illinois Department of gress should and can work together to superbugs. It is imperative that we pro- Transportation’s multiyear highway provide the American people with crit- vide this agency with the funding nec- improvement program. ical investments that will create jobs essary to protect the public health. This bill also includes critical fund- and grow our Nation’s economy. It is Chairman COLE is a strong champion ing to improve freight and passenger my hope that the bipartisan coopera- of CDC funding, and it is my hope that rail around the country. Nowhere is tion that made this bill possible will we can work together on a bipartisan, this more important than in Illinois, continue as Congress begins its work bicameral basis to plus-up overall CDC our Nation’s rail hub. And $98 million on appropriations for fiscal year 2018. funding in the coming years. in newly authorized rail safety and This bill includes critical invest- I am pleased that harmful tobacco state of good repair grants was in- ments in the middle class, our Nation’s riders that would have severely under- cluded in the bill, as well as $1.495 bil- infrastructure, medical and scientific mined the Food and Drug Administra- lion in nationwide funding for Amtrak, research, and our national security. I tion, or FDA’s, ability to protect our which commuters in both Chicago and am proud to report that much of the Nation’s youth from harmful, addictive downstate Illinois rely on every day to funding in this bill will benefit my tobacco products were not included in get to their schools and jobs. By pro- home State of Illinois, funding a wide this bill. By omitting these terrible viding adequate funding to Amtrak, variety of Illinois projects and prior- policy riders, the FDA can continue to more than 500 communities in 46 States ities. Most importantly, it takes the regulate cigars and ecigarettes. I have across the country will continue to see threat of a government shutdown, said it before and I will say it again: I improved passenger rail service. which would have hurt our economy, remain troubled that Big Tobacco con- The bill allocates $150 million in off the table. tinues to market and develop products funding to provide rural areas with re- This bill fully rejects President aimed at getting youth addicted to to- liable air service through the Essential Trump’s proposed assault on medical bacco. Air Service program. This funding sup- research and instead includes a $2 bil- This bill includes more than $1 bil- ports critical air service in Quincy, De- lion increase for the National Insti- lion to help combat our Nation’s pre- catur, and Marion, IL. tutes of Health, or NIH, bringing the scription opioid and heroin epidemic. This agreement provides $1.3 billion agency’s funding level to $34.1 billion. This funding will be available to States to permanently extend the health bene- This 6 percent increase in NIH funding and local communities to help with fits of more than 22,000 retired coal matches the steady, predictable growth prevention, enforcement, treatment, miners and widows, including nearly called for in legislation I have intro- and recovery. In 2015, more than 33,000 2,000 in Illinois. Coal mining is difficult duced over the past several years, the people in the United States died from and dangerous work, and these men American Cures Act. an opioid overdose. To combat this epi- and women who spent decades working Thanks to the NIH, we have cut the demic, we must commit proper funding in these mines risked their lives, cancer death rate by 11 percent in and resources toward solving the prob- health, and personal safety to ensure women and 19 percent in men. HIV/ lem. This bill begins to do that. that our country had power. I heard

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MY6.053 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2769 countless heartbreaking stories from law-abiding individuals who make im- Given the threats our Nation faces Illinois coal miners and their families portant economic contributions and from the likes of North Korea and rad- about the fear and uncertainty they have deep roots in our country. ical Islamic terrorists, a government were facing if they lose their health Democrats also successfully resisted shutdown would send exactly the benefits. While this bill does not pro- a rider that would have deprived com- wrong message to the world at a time vide relief for the miners’ failing pen- munities around the country—includ- when it is counting on America to lead. sion fund, they can find comfort in ing Chicago in my home State of Illi- I am pleased to see this bill funds the knowing they will have health care for nois—of billions of dollars in critical Department of Defense to levels au- life. Federal funding if they refuse to take thorized by Congress and includes in- As vice chair of the Defense Appro- part in the Trump administration’s creases for ship building, operations priations Subcommittee, I am particu- mass deportation scheme. and maintenance, and military readi- larly proud of the bipartisan work that The bill also includes important new ness. It also incorporates the fiscal was done in the subcommittee to pro- oversight measures for U.S. Immigra- year 2017 Intelligence Authorization vide critical equipment and training tion and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, Act, IAA, that provides essential guid- for our troops, as well as funds to con- detention operations. While some addi- ance and authorities for our intel- tinue the fight against terrorist tional detention funding may have ligence community. This year’s IAA re- threats like ISIL. I want to thank been needed to address the surge in quires the President to establish an Chairman THAD COCHRAN and his staff border crossings at the end of 2016, it interagency committee to counter Rus- for working with my staff and me on a appears that a reduction in ICE’s de- sia’s active measures against the U.S., bipartisan basis to finalize this section tention budget will be appropriate in maintains resources for our intel- of the bill. fiscal year 2018, given the sharp decline ligence community’s counterterrorism The bill provides a pay raise for mili- in border crossings this year. capabilities, and requires the Director tary and civilian personnel, including I am disappointed that the bill in- of National Intelligence to complete those in Illinois. It continues the sub- cludes a problematic rider that cir- declassification reviews of terrorist ac- committee’s track record of providing cumvents regular legislative order to tivities of each individual who has been 5 percent real growth in lifesaving permit the Trump administration to transferred or released from the U.S. potentially double the number of for- medical research and makes critical detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, eign guest workers who could be admit- boosts in broader science and tech- Cuba. ted to the United States under the H- nology research. This bill will ensure Florida can con- It also provides important defense 2B visa program without needed safe- tinue combatting the Zika virus and funding with particular impact in Illi- guards. I have long advocated for re- the opioid epidemic that is devastating nois. It supports well-paying manufac- form of the H-2B program, which in its so many families in our communities. I turing jobs by adding $110 million to current form harms both American and am committed to continuing to fight extend the Humvee production line at foreign workers. We should not in- against Zika and have begun working crease the size of the H-2B program un- Rock Island Arsenal and $979 million to with the Senate Appropriations Com- less and until the program is reformed extend the F–18 production line in St. mittee to establish an emergency to protect workers from exploitation. I Louis for downstate Illinois. It also health fund to provide funds for infec- am particularly concerned that this provides $140 million to stabilize rates tious outbreaks, like Zika. rider gives the Trump administration at all three Army arsenals. Finally, it This appropriations bill will also sup- the authority to determine how many adds $9.9 million not requested in the port Everglades restoration and im- additional H-2B visas will be issued budget to ensure National Guard cyber provements to the Herbert Hoover Dike since President Trump owns companies protection teams in Illinois and across and our State’s ports. Florida’s citrus that have sought to import more than the country are fully funded. growers will get the help they need to 900 H-2B guest workers, including 64 in The omnibus bill does not include counter the terrible greening that is fiscal year 2017 alone, while turning any funding for a wall on our southern hurting their crops. away hundreds of American workers. I The bill also includes my legislation border. Mexico will not pay for a bor- will be closely monitoring the adminis- to protect public housing residents and der wall as the President promised dur- tration’s implementation of this provi- reform HUD’s broken inspection proc- ing last year’s campaign, and it is ab- sion, which only permits additional ess. I saw firsthand the appalling con- surd to suggest that the American peo- visas to be issued if the Secretary of ditions at Eureka Gardens in Jackson- ple should now be stuck with the bill. Homeland Security, after consultation ville, Windsor Cove Apartments in Or- Texas Republican Congressman WILL with the Secretary of Labor, deter- lando, and Stonybrook Apartments in HURD, whose district covers 800 miles mines that the needs of American busi- Riviera Beach, so I am glad this bill of the southwest border, has described nesses cannot be met by qualified will help ensure the people at these the wall as ‘‘the most expensive and American workers. properties finally see real changes for least effective way to secure the bor- While not perfect, this bill exempli- the better. der.’’ Senate Democrats on the Home- fies what Congress can do if it puts pol- These provisions make the bill wor- land Security Committee estimate this itics aside to work together and come thy of my support, but as I have said wall will cost nearly $70 billion to build to a bipartisan consensus for the good before, we cannot continue to run our and $150 million a year to maintain. of the American people. I support the country in this way, with one tem- Even the Trump administration ac- passage of this Omnibus appropriations porary bill after another. Republicans knowledges the wall will cost $21.6 bil- bill. While we now face a much short- and Democrats in Congress must work lion, not including maintenance. ened timeline to complete the appro- together with the Trump administra- While the Trump administration de- priations process for the next fiscal tion to restore fiscal sanity, set a long- manded $3 billion in additional funding year, I am hopeful that the bipartisan term budget, and address our Nation’s for immigration enforcement, congres- cooperation exemplified by this bill unsustainable and growing debt. sional Democrats succeeded in cutting will continue.∑ f this amount in half. I am pleased that f the omnibus does not include any fund- TURKEY ing for President Trump’s plan to tri- GOVERNMENT FUNDING Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, today I ple the number of immigration agents. LEGISLATION wish to express my concerns about the This unnecessary and prohibitively ex- Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, while not outcome of the April 16 constitutional pensive goal would help the adminis- perfect, this bill includes important referendum in Turkey, when more than tration target 8 million undocumented provisions that will benefit Florida, 50 million Turkish citizens voted on immigrants who are now priorities for strengthen our national security, in- constitutional amendments to convert deportation under Trump administra- crease resources for our national de- Turkey’s parliamentary government tion policy. This ignores the reality fense and the fight against ISIS, and into a Presidential system. that the vast majority of undocu- give our military men and women the Turkey is a longstanding friend of mented immigrants in our country are largest pay raise in 6 years. the United States and a NATO ally.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.029 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2770 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 Our bilateral partnership dates back to as more than 100,000 people have been and society, and is now poised to con- the Cold War when Turkey served as an detained or arrested. Tens of thousands solidate power further under his self- important bulwark against the creep- have been fired from their jobs, had described ‘‘executive presidency.’’ ing influence of the Soviet Union. Time their professional licenses revoked, and In the short term, the Turkish Gov- has not diminished Turkey’s had their names released on public lists ernment should act swiftly and trans- geostrategic importance. Today An- without any recognizable due process. parently to investigate credible claims kara finds itself at the intersection of The government removed and replaced of voting irregularities in the ref- several critical challenges: the insta- thousands of judges and prosecutors erendum, as well as the legality of a bility in Syria and Iraq, the threat of within hours of the coup’s defeat, com- surprise electoral board decision to ISIS and other extremist groups, and promising the independence of the judi- admit an unknown number of ballots the refugee crisis spawned by this re- ciary at a moment when an impartial that should be deemed invalid under gional upheaval. justice system had become more im- existing rules. Public trust in the out- The United States relies on Turkey portant than ever. come of such a consequential vote is of and other regional partners to help co- The government has also closed more utmost importance. Sadly, until now, ordinate and strengthen our collective than 150 media outlets. Upwards of 80 the government has responded to these response. I was deeply troubled when journalists are behind bars. The offices challenges with dismissiveness and renegade military units attempted to of the country’s oldest newspaper were suppression. In the past week, dozens overthrow Turkey’s democratically raided, and the paper’s editor-in-chief of activists have been detained for par- elected government last July. Turkey’s and other staff were arrested. The ticipating in protests against the elec- strength is rooted in the democratic le- media environment was already under tion results. gitimacy of its government—a pillar of extraordinary pressure before the coup. Furthermore, the government should stability targeted by the reckless and Last spring, the government seized lift the state of emergency, stop all criminal coup attempt. control of the country’s highest cir- forms of repression against the free As chairman of the Commission on culation paper. Self-censorship is now press, release all imprisoned journal- Security and Cooperation in Europe, or widely practiced to avoid provoking ists and political activists, and ur- U.S. Helsinki Commission, I take very the government’s ire. gently restore public confidence in the seriously the political commitments Additionally, state of emergency de- judiciary. Only then can it credibly and made by the 57 participating states of crees have given regional governors the independently adjudicate the tens of the Organization for Security and Co- ability to curtail freedom of assembly thousands of cases caught up in the operation in Europe, OSCE. These com- rights, harming the ability of civil so- government’s months-long dragnet op- mitments, held by both the United ciety organizations to organize rallies erations. States and Turkey, represent the foun- concerning the referendum. Since July, A country where disagreements are dation of security and cooperation in the government has detained more suppressed rather than debated is less the OSCE region. They include an in- than a dozen opposition parliamentar- secure. A country where institutions dispensable focus on human rights, rule ians. Many more continue to face are subordinated to personalities is less of law, and democratic institutions. In the OSCE’s founding document, criminal charges for political state- stable. A country where criticism is the Helsinki Final Act, participating ments they made before the coup at- conflated with sedition is less demo- states affirm ‘‘the universal signifi- tempt. cratic. Unless President Erdogan It is difficult to overstate the cance of human rights and funda- moves urgently to reverse these trends, chilling effect these measures have had mental freedoms’’ and consider respect I fear our partnership will inevitably on political debate in Turkey; yet for these to be an ‘‘essential factor’’ for become more transactional and less these are the circumstances under international peace and security. This strategic. It will become more difficult vision is consistent with long-estab- which Turks voted on April 16. These to justify long-term investment in our lished U.S. foreign policy promoting major constitutional changes passed relationship with Turkey if the future human rights and democracy as corner- with a slim majority of 51 percent. The of the country becomes synonymous stones of a safer, more stable inter- OSCE’s international observation mis- with the fortunes of one party or one national order. sion stated in its preliminary conclu- individual. With these principles in mind, the sions that the vote ‘‘took place on an The United States and Turkey need a United States must pay urgent atten- unlevel playing field’’ and that ‘‘funda- solid foundation for enduring coopera- tion to the current situation in Turkey mental freedoms essential to a genu- tion to tackle regional instability, ter- and the danger it poses to Turkish and inely democratic process were cur- rorism, migration, and other chal- regional stability. Eroding respect for tailed.’’ lenges. The future of this partnership fundamental freedoms, rule of law, and Under the revised constitution, the is difficult to imagine in the midst of a democratic institutions in Turkey has once largely ceremonial position of prolonged state of emergency, wide- proceeded at an alarming pace. The President will convert into an ‘‘execu- scale purges, and weakened democratic government’s planned ‘‘executive presi- tive presidency’’ and the position of institutions. dency’’ will further decrease govern- Prime Minister will be abolished. The f President will be elected along with ment accountability. WASTE MANAGEMENT NATIONAL Since the attempted coup more than the national assembly every 5 years CAREER DAY 9 months ago, Turkey has operated and has the ability to dissolve the as- under a state of emergency that gives sembly and call new elections at will. Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I would the government sweeping authority to The President will also appoint a larg- like to recognize Thursday, May 4, as curtail rights and silence opponents. er proportion—nearly half—of the Waste Management National Career Certain extraordinary measures may country’s supreme judicial council. In Day and share with you the importance have been justified in the immediate a report on these new constitutional of hiring and promoting women in non- aftermath to restore order, investigate provisions, the Venice Commission of traditional female positions as drivers events, and bring perpetrators to jus- the Council of Europe concluded that and technicians. I believe it is impor- tice, but the government’s actions have the amendments are a ‘‘step back- tant that we support and encourage stretched far beyond these legitimate wards’’ and pose ‘‘dangers of degenera- women to pursue these career opportu- aims. The ongoing purge has touched tion . . . towards an authoritarian and nities that have been historically popu- every institution of government, sector personal regime.’’ lated by men. of society, corner of the country, and Turkey is undergoing a disturbing Women comprise only 2 percent of shade of opposition—military or civil- transformation, and I am concerned current drivers and technicians. Waste ian, Turk or Kurd, religious or secular, these changes could undermine the Management National Career Day will nationalist or leftist, political or non- strength of our partnership. President provide an opportunity to share stories political. Erdogan’s government has dramati- of women who have held these posi- An atmosphere of fear and uncer- cally repressed dissent, purged oppo- tions successfully and moved up into tainty has settled over Turkish society nents from every sector of government management.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.030 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2771 I support this initiative because I be- want to wish her all the best in her re- she singlehandedly made the lunches lieve, as we continue to highlight eco- tirement. more nutritious, with healthier entrees nomic opportunities for women, it is Nancy is a proud Pittsburgh native. and more salads. That is no small ac- imperative that the private sector de- She earned her bachelor of arts degree complishment. My staff and I worked velop platforms where women can learn in art history from the University of with Nancy and Gary Myrick on updat- about careers they normally would not Notre Dame. She was an excellent stu- ing and revising the conference rules. consider. This national career day is an dent: she was on the dean’s honor list, Nancy’s institutional memory and pa- excellent example of waste manage- she was a Notre Dame scholar, and she tience and helpful suggestions were ment being proactive in creating ways graduated cum laude. Then she earned crucially important and much appre- to increase the number of women in a master of arts degree in art history ciated in that endeavor. She helped these types of careers across the coun- with a concentration in museum prac- people find jobs. She answered every try. tice from George Washington Univer- imaginable inquiry from Senators and Without a doubt, investment in sity. Armed with her degrees and prov- staff. I could go on, but suffice it to say women in nontraditional careers brings en academic success, Nancy went to that Nancy Iacomini has kept the about significant returns. Women con- work for the National Gallery of Art, ‘‘Democratic trains’’ running on time tribute every day to our skillful, effec- NGA. She spent 5 years at the NGA, here in the Senate. She has done so tive, and talented workforce. I com- holding positions of increasing respon- with diligence and grace and good mend waste management for building a sibility. During this time, she also con- humor and skill. Will Rogers famously platform where you can increase hiring tributed entries and artist biographies said, ‘‘I am not a member of any orga- of females as drivers, technician, front- to ‘‘La Vie Moderne: Nineteenth Cen- nized political party; I am a Demo- line management, and give them op- tury Paintings from the Permanent crat.’’ Well, he didn’t know Nancy. Of portunity for advancement. Collection of the Corcoran Gallery of course, if he did, he would have liked f Art,’’ Corcoran Gallery of Art, Wash- her—just as we all do. ington, D.C., 1983. We are going to miss Nancy’s quiet REMEMBERING LIEUTENANT In 1988, Nancy decided to shift her competence and her sense of humor. We COLONEL LEO THORSNESS focus from art history to the art of the are going to miss the pumpkin outfits Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I come possible, and she joined the Democratic she would put on for Halloween. We are to the floor today deeply saddened by Policy Committee as a staff assistant. going to miss her wonder dog Flash. I the passing of my dear friend and fel- Within a few short months, she was hope Nancy will come back to visit us low POW, Lt. Col. Leo Thorsness. One promoted to the position of special as- every now and then and even bring of the greatest honors of my life was sistant to the floor staff and then again Flash with her, but I know she is look- serving with Leo, a man whose service a short time later to the position of ex- ing forward to spending more time exemplified selfless duty and devotion ecutive assistant. The art world pulled with her husband, Dan, and the rest of to others. Leo earned the Medal of her back, though, and from 1994 to 1998, her family, pursuing her myriad hob- Honor for his heroism in a daring com- she served as deputy congressional liai- bies, interests, and community activi- bat mission in North Vietnam in 1967 son at the National Endowment for the ties and rooting for the Notre Dame when he flew directly into hostile terri- Arts, NEA. Some may recall that this football team. tory on dangerously low fuel in an at- was a critical time in the NEA’s his- Nancy Iacomini has devoted 34 years tempt to rescue his comrades who had tory when its very existence was at of her life to government service. We been downed in an attack. Just 2 weeks stake. Nancy helped the NEA weather are all better off because of that serv- after that courageous mission, Leo’s the storm and then returned to the ice. As the fictional Inspector Morse aircraft was shot down, and he was Senate to work in the Democratic Sec- reminds us, ‘‘To make an end is to taken captive by North Vietnamese retary’s office. make a beginning.’’ I would ask all of soldiers. Leo would spend the next 6 Since Nancy came to work in Wash- my colleagues to join me in thanking years imprisoned, including a full year ington, she has lived in Virginia. Nancy and wishing her all the best as in solitary confinement, and endure Nancy has held leadership roles in the she begins the next chapter in her life. unspeakable pain and suffering because Ballston/Virginia Square Civic Associa- f of his steadfast adherence to our code tion, the Cherrydale Citizens Associa- ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS of conduct. However, Leo never let this tion, and the Neighborhood Conserva- experience break his spirit and inspired tion Advisory Committee. She is a past the rest of us with his patriotism, per- member and chairman of the county’s TRIBUTE TO J.P. AND TIARA severance, and hope that we would transportation commission, a past THOMAS someday be free. member and chairman of the historical ∑ Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this After returning home, Leo continued affairs and landmark review board, and week, I have the distinct honor of rec- to live a selfless life of service, as a past chairman of the towing advisory ognizing the Thomas family for giving volunteer, State senator, and public board. She also chaired the fire station their time and talent to serve as foster speaker, with a simple message: ‘‘Do No. 3 relocation task force. Nancy has parents for children in Lake County. what’s right—help others.’’ I am for- also participated in the East Falls J.P. Thomas and his wife, Tiara Thom- ever grateful for Leo’s generosity, Church Working Group, the Clarendon as, have done honorable work by pro- friendship, and example and, along Sector Plan Update, neighborhood traf- viding structure and consistency in with Cindy, send my heartfelt condo- fic calming measures ad hoc advisory many young lives. lences to Leo’s wife, Gaylee, and their group, the subdivision ordinance work- J.P. and Tiara began serving as fos- entire family as we bid farewell to a ing group, and the joint George Mason ter parents in their early twenties. The genuine American hero. University/Arlington County advisory young couple took a short break from f board. She served as Arlington’s rep- fostering as their own family began to resentative to WMATA’s Riders’ Advi- grow, but soon returned to serving as TRIBUTE TO NANCY IACOMINI sory Council from 2006 to 2009 and foster parents in order to help their Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I would chaired the council in 2008. community. They have provided a posi- like to take this opportunity to talk Here in the Senate, Nancy has had so tive environment for 15 Montana chil- about a special member of the Senate many responsibilities that it would be dren in their home on the Flathead In- family, Nancy Iacomini. Nancy, who hard to list them all, but I would note dian Reservation. Throughout the chal- has served as the Democratic Sec- a few. Every Tuesday when the Senate lenging journey of serving as foster retary’s administrative assistant since is in session, there is a conference parents, J.P. and Tiara give credit to 1998, is retiring after 34 years of de- lunch. Nancy has been responsible for the Cornerstone Faith Center in St. Ig- voted public service. I know I speak on organizing the lunch, the topics for dis- natius for helping them find the bal- behalf of all of my colleagues when I cussion, and the materials to be dis- ance to meet the demands of faith, say I am going to miss Nancy, but she tributed. Despite much complaining family, fostering, youth sports, and has certainly earned a respite, and I from Senators whom I shall not name, work.

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The group de- the ESOP Association, Cindy serves as and are still doing to help others.∑ cided to turn their home brewing board treasurer of the Vermont Em- f hobby into a business in the fall of 2013, ployee Ownership Center. VEOC has becoming the first brewery in Shreve- provided numerous Vermont companies RECOGNIZING HYDROHOIST port since Prohibition. Red River is with assistance in transitioning to em- ∑ Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, small now a thriving small business that em- ployee ownership, and Cindy has been a businesses play an integral role in ploys more than a dozen employees and crucial resource in those efforts. As we Oklahoma’s economy. They consist of offers locally brewed craft beer to the continue to work together to help the over 52 percent of all employees in people of Shreveport, LA, and beyond. employee ownership model realize its Oklahoma. Additionally, within Okla- What makes their beer unique is the true potential, I know Cindy will con- homa, over 84 percent of all exports Louisiana twist they put on their prod- tinue to be an invaluable partner. ∑ come from small businesses. Today I ucts. The beer is designed to be indic- f have the distinct honor of recognizing ative of the culture and climate of Lou- one of the many successful small busi- isiana. In addition, Red River often REMEMBERING GENERAL AMEDEO nesses in my home State of Oklahoma names their beers after the cultural C. MEROLLA for National Small Business Week. and historic aspects of Louisiana. Ses- ∑ Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, While there are many businesses wor- sion 18 IPA, for example, got its name today I join so many Rhode Islanders thy of recognition, I am particularly from Louisiana being the 18th State in in honoring the life, service, and gifts proud of HydroHoist. the United States. of GEN Amedeo C. Merolla. Armie For over 53 years, HydroHoist has The fruition of hard work and pas- Merolla served his Nation and the been not only a leader but an origi- sion has been the catalyst for many State of Rhode Island with distinction, nator and industry innovator of the small businesses around the country, including service in the Marine Corps market for boat lifts, personal including Red River Brewing Company. and more than 30 years in the Rhode Is- watercraft—PWC—ports, and boat pro- Those who are able to create successful land Army National Guard, where he tection packages. Their products range small businesses create economic sta- rose to the rank of brigadier general. from 900-pound drive-on docking plat- bility for their families and their com- He earned numerous awards and deco- forms for PWCs, to lifts with the hold- munities, and in doing so, they are car- rations, including the Legion of Merit, ing capacity for 130,000 pound rying out the American dream. I would the Meritorious Service Medal, and the watercraft. HydroHoist launched half a like to extend my sincerest congratula- Rhode Island Cross for Valor. A grad- century ago by an Oklahoma marina tions to Red River Brewing Company uate of Harvard Law School, Armie owner in Grand Lake, OK. By 1971, the on being recognized during the 2017 Na- was also an accomplished jurist. In the company moved into an old World War tional Small Business Week. You make Guard, he served in the Judge Advocate II munitions plant in Claremore, OK, our great State proud, and I look for- General Corps. He also worked in pub- where it is still located today. ward to seeing your future success.∑ lic service, as assistant solicitor for the HydroHoist’s technology revolution- f city of Providence and legal counsel to ized the boating industry, and remark- multiple Rhode Island State agencies ably, some of these original hoists are TRIBUTE TO CINDY TURCOT and offices, as well as to my colleague still in use today. HydroHoist has ex- ∑ Mr. SANDERS. Mr. President, today Congressman James Langevin. He panded far beyond America’s borders to I wish to recognize Cindy Turcot and eventually established his own firm, international waters, too. congratulate her on her term as the Merolla, Accetturo & Lough, where he I want to congratulate and thank chair of the ESOP Association. Cindy practiced alongside two of his children president and CEO Mick Webber of has been committed to advancing the until the time of his death. HydroHoist for his outstanding and de- employee ownership model in Vermont Armie touched many people’s lives voted work in creating a shining busi- and around the country. For the last 2 through his generous volunteer work in ness model with over 4 distribution years, Cindy served as chair of the as- his community, from his church to the warehouses and over 600 dealers sociation, working to promote the in- Boys and Girls Clubs to the Knights of throughout the world. Mr. Webber’s terests of employee stock ownership Columbus, but perhaps his greatest dedication to making these products in plan, ESOP, companies across the achievement was raising four children America should not only make Oklaho- country. with his wife of 64 years, Kitty. My mans proud, but all Americans. In my State of Vermont, we have thoughts and prayers are with Armie’s HydroHoist’s success should be an ex- seen firsthand the many benefits that family in this time, as we celebrate his ample for all businesses, and I am employee ownership can bring to busi- good works and kind spirit.∑ proud to recognize their hard work and nesses and employees. Study after f dedication.∑ study has shown that employee owner- MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE f ship has been proven to spur employ- ment, increase productivity, grow At 9:54 a.m., a message from the RECOGNIZING RED RIVER sales, and raise wages. Importantly, House of Representatives, delivered by BREWING COMPANY data from the General Social Surveys Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- ∑ Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, as a from 2002 to 2014 shows that employee- nounced that the House has passed the member of the Small Business Com- owned companies have layoff rates that following bills, in which it requests the mittee, it is my pleasure to recognize are four to eight times less than con- concurrence of the Senate: Red River Brewing Company from ventionally owned companies. H.R. 1665. An act to ensure that Adminis- Shreveport, LA, as the Small Business Cindy has been a vital ally in the ef- trator of the Federal Emergency Manage- of the Day for National Small Business forts to expand broad-based employee ment Agency considers severe local impact Week. Small businesses like Red River ownership and bolster middle-class jobs in making a recommendation to the Presi- Brewing Company are the backbone of in our communities. As chair, Cindy dent for a major disaster declaration. this country. According to the U.S. advocated for the ESOP business model H.R. 1678. An act to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- Small Business Administration, U.S. and the benefits of employee ownership sistance Act concerning the statute of limi- small businesses employed 56.8 million all across the country. I know many in tations for actions to recover disaster or people—or 48 percent of the private the employee ownership community emergency assistance payments, and for workforce in 2013. Louisiana small are so appreciative of Cindy’s energy, other purposes.

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ENROLLED BILL SIGNED entitled ‘‘Civil Monetary Penalty Rates In- Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- At 11:16 a.m., a message from the flation Adjustments for Calendar Year 2017 ernmental Affairs. House of Representatives, delivered by and Initial ‘Catch-Up’ Adjustments’’ EC–1493. A communication from the Acting Director, Employee Services, Office of Per- Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, (RIN1012–AA17) received in the Office of the President of the Senate on April 27, 2017; to sonnel Management, transmitting, pursuant announced that the Speaker has signed the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Medical the following enrolled bill: sources. Qualification Determinations’’ (RIN3206– H.R. 274. An act to provide for reimburse- EC–1483. A communication from the Acting AL14) received in the Office of the President ment for the use of modern travel services by Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory of the Senate on May 1, 2017; to the Com- Federal employees traveling on official gov- Commission, transmitting, pursuant to law, mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- ernment business, and for other purposes. a report relative to the status of all exten- mental Affairs. EC–1494. A communication from the Acting The enrolled bill was subsequently sions granted by Congress regarding the re- quirements of Section 13 of the Federal Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legis- signed by the President pro tempore Power Act; to the Committee on Energy and lative Affairs, Department of Justice, trans- (Mr. HATCH). Natural Resources. mitting, pursuant to law, an annual report EC–1484. A communication from the Chief on applications made by the Government for At 3:27 p.m., a message from the of the Publications and Regulations Branch, authority to conduct electronic surveillance House of Representatives, delivered by Internal Revenue Service, Department of the for foreign intelligence during calendar year Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the 2016 relative to the Foreign Intelligence Sur- announced that the House has passed report of a rule entitled ‘‘2017 Marginal Pro- veillance Act of 1978; to the Committee on the following bill, in which it requests duction Rates’’ (Notice 2017–26) received in the Judiciary. EC–1495. A communication from the Chief the concurrence of the Senate: the Office of the President of the Senate on May 1, 2017; to the Committee on Finance. Justice of the Supreme Court of the United H.R. 1644. An act to enhance sanctions with EC–1485. A communication from the Chief States, transmitting, pursuant to law, the respect to transactions relating to North of the Publications and Regulations Branch, amendments to the Federal Rules of Civil Korea, and for other purposes. Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Procedure that have been adopted by the Su- The message also announced that the Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the preme Court of the United States; to the House agreed to the amendment of the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Additional First Committee on the Judiciary. Year Depreciation’’ (Rev. Proc. 2017–33) re- EC–1496. A communication from the Chief Senate to the bill (H.R. 534) to require Justice of the Supreme Court of the United the Secretary of State to take such ac- ceived in the Office of the President of the Senate on May 1, 2017; to the Committee on States, transmitting, pursuant to law, the tions as may be necessary for the Finance. amendments to the Federal Rules of Appel- United States to rejoin the Bureau of EC–1486. A communication from the Chief late Procedure that have been adopted by International Expositions, and for of the Publications and Regulations Branch, the Supreme Court of the United States; to other purposes. Internal Revenue Service, Department of the the Committee on the Judiciary. EC–1497. A communication from the Chief ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘2017 Section 43 In- Justice of the Supreme Court of the United At 3:47 p.m., a message from the flation Adjustment’’ (Notice 2017–25) received States, transmitting, pursuant to law, the House of Representatives, delivered by in the Office of the President of the Senate amendments to the Federal Rules of Bank- Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, on May 1, 2017; to the Committee on Finance. ruptcy Procedure that have been adopted by announced that the Speaker has signed EC–1487. A communication from the Chief the Supreme Court of the United States; to the following enrolled bill: of the Publications and Regulations Branch, the Committee on the Judiciary. EC–1498. A communication from the Chief H.R. 244. An act making appropriations for Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Justice of the Supreme Court of the United the fiscal year ending September 30, 2017, and States, transmitting, pursuant to law, the for other purposes. report of a rule entitled ‘‘2016 Section 45K(d) (2)(C) Reference Price’’ (Notice 2017–24) re- amendments to the Federal Rules of Evi- The enrolled bill was subsequently ceived in the Office of the President of the dence that have been adopted by the Su- signed by the President pro tempore Senate on May 1, 2017; to the Committee on preme Court of the United States; to the (Mr. HATCH). Finance. Committee on the Judiciary. EC–1488. A communication from the Chief EC–1499. A communication from the Assist- f of the Publications and Regulations Branch, ant General Counsel, Office of Justice Pro- MEASURES REFERRED Internal Revenue Service, Department of the grams, Department of Justice, transmitting, Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled The following bills were read the first report of a rule entitled ‘‘Taxation of Fringe ‘‘Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Preven- and the second times by unanimous Benefits’’ (Rev. Rul. 2017–10) received in the tion Act Formula Grant Program’’ (RIN1121– consent, and referred as indicated: Office of the President of the Senate on May AA83) received in the Office of the President of the Senate on April 27, 2017; to the Com- H.R. 1644. An act to enhance sanctions with 1, 2017; to the Committee on Finance. mittee on the Judiciary. respect to transactions relating to North EC–1489. A communication from the Bu- Korea, and for other purposes; to the Com- reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of f State, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- mittee on Foreign Relations. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES H.R. 1665. An act to ensure that Adminis- port relative to section 36(c) of the Arms Ex- trator of the Federal Emergency Manage- port Control Act (DDTC 16–135); to the Com- The following reports of committees ment Agency considers severe local impact mittee on Foreign Relations. were submitted: in making a recommendation to the Presi- EC–1490. A communication from the Bu- By Mr. COCHRAN, from the Committee on dent for a major disaster declaration; to the reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of Appropriations: Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- State, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- Special Report entitled ‘‘Further Revised ernmental Affairs. port relative to section 36(c) of the Arms Ex- Allocation to Subcommittees of Budget To- H.R. 1678. An act to amend the Robert T. port Control Act (DDTC 17–010); to the Com- tals for Fiscal Year 2017’’ (Rept. No. 115–43). Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency As- mittee on Foreign Relations. By Mr. JOHNSON, from the Committee on EC–1491. A communication from the Direc- sistance Act concerning the statute of limi- Homeland Security and Governmental Af- tor, Court Services and Offender Supervision tations for actions to recover disaster or fairs, with amendments: Agency for the District of Columbia, trans- emergency assistance payments, and for S. 585. A bill to provide greater whistle- mitting, pursuant to law, the Agency’s fiscal other purposes; to the Committee on Home- blower protections for Federal employees, year 2016 annual report relative to the Noti- land Security and Governmental Affairs. increased awareness of Federal whistle- fication and Federal Employee Antidiscrimi- blower protections, and increased account- f nation and Retaliation Act of 2002 (No FEAR ability and required discipline for Federal Act); to the Committee on Homeland Secu- EXECUTIVE AND OTHER supervisors who retaliate against whistle- rity and Governmental Affairs. blowers, and for other purposes (Rept. No. COMMUNICATIONS EC–1492. A communication from the Acting 115–44). Director, Employee Services/Recruitment The following communications were f laid before the Senate, together with and Hiring, Office of Personnel Management, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of accompanying papers, reports, and doc- EXECUTIVE REPORT OF a rule entitled ‘‘Prevailing Rate Systems; COMMITTEE uments, and were referred as indicated: Definition of Kent County, Michigan, and EC–1482. A communication from the Regu- Cameron County, Texas, to Nonappropriated The following executive report of a latory Liaison, Office of Natural Resources Fund Federal Wage System Wage Areas’’ nomination was submitted: Revenue, Department of the Interior, trans- (RIN3206–AN40) received in the Office of the By Mr. BURR for the Select Committee on mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule President of the Senate on May 1, 2017; to the Intelligence.

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Courtney Elwood, of Virginia, to be Gen- Mr. KAINE, Mr. KING, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, tional Police, to work with the Philippines eral Counsel of the Central Intelligence Mr. LEAHY, Mr. MARKEY, Mrs. to support civil society and a public health Agency. MCCASKILL, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. approach to substance abuse, to report on (Nominations without an asterisk MERKLEY, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. NELSON, Chinese and other sources of narcotics to the were reported with the recommenda- Mr. PETERS, Mr. REED, Mr. SANDERS, Republic of the Philippines, and for other Mr. SCHATZ, Mr. SCHUMER, Mrs. SHA- purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- tion that they be confirmed.) HEEN, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. UDALL, Mr. tions. f VAN HOLLEN, Mr. WARNER, Ms. WAR- By Ms. HIRONO (for herself and Mr. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND REN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, and Mr. ROUNDS): WYDEN): S. 1056. A bill to amend the Small Business JOINT RESOLUTIONS S. 1045. A bill to guarantee coverage of cer- Act to waive the guarantee fee for veterans The following bills and joint resolu- tain women’s preventive services under all and spouses of veterans for the Export Work- tions were introduced, read the first health plans; to the Committee on Health, ing Capital, International Trade, and Export and second times by unanimous con- Education, Labor, and Pensions. Express programs; to the Committee on By Mr. HELLER (for himself and Ms. sent, and referred as indicated: Small Business and Entrepreneurship. CORTEZ MASTO): By Mr. NELSON (for himself, Mr. By Mr. MARKEY (for himself and Mr. S. 1046. A bill to facilitate certain pinyon- PORTMAN, and Mr. PETERS): BLUMENTHAL): juniper related projects in Lincoln County, S. 1057. A bill to amend the Harmful Algal S. 1037. A bill to prohibit air carriers from Nevada, to modify the boundaries of certain Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control imposing fees that are not reasonable and wilderness areas in the State of Nevada, and Act of 1998 to address harmful algal blooms, proportional to the costs incurred by the air to fully implement the White Pine County and for other purposes; to the Committee on carriers, and for other purposes; to the Com- Conservation, Recreation, and Development Commerce, Science, and Transportation. mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- Act; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- By Mr. KENNEDY: tation. ural Resources. S. 1058. A bill to authorize the Adminis- By Mrs. ERNST (for herself and Mrs. By Mr. BURR: trator of the Federal Emergency Manage- GILLIBRAND): S. 1047. A bill to provide for the recogni- ment Agency to terminate certain contracts S. 1038. A bill to require the Administrator tion of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, on the basis of detrimental conduct to the of the Small Business Administration to sub- and for other purposes; to the Committee on National Flood Insurance Program, and for mit to Congress a report on the utilization of Indian Affairs. other purposes; to the Committee on Bank- small businesses with respect to certain Fed- By Mr. HATCH (for himself, Mr. BEN- ing, Housing, and Urban Affairs. eral contracts; to the Committee on Small NET, Mr. BURR, and Mr. CASEY): By Mr. GARDNER: Business and Entrepreneurship. S. 1048. A bill to expand patient access to S. 1059. A bill to extend the authorization By Mr. FLAKE (for himself and Mr. experimental treatments in clinical trials, of the Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Con- MCCAIN): and for other purposes; to the Committee on trol Act of 1978 relating to the disposal site S. 1039. A bill to indemnify local law en- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. in Mesa County, Colorado; to the Committee forcement entities for complying with valid By Ms. HASSAN (for herself and Mr. on Energy and Natural Resources. detainers issued by immigration officers; to YOUNG): By Mr. CRUZ: the Committee on the Judiciary. S. 1049. A bill to allow the Secretary of S. 1060. A bill to strengthen prohibitions By Mr. JOHNSON (for himself and Mr. Health and Human Services to require that regarding the Palestine Liberation Organiza- MCCAIN): risk evaluation and mitigation strategies for tion, and for other purposes; to the Com- certain drugs include communication plans S. 1040. A bill to amend the Immigration mittee on Foreign Relations. that provide information about drug formu- and Nationality Act to provide for a State- By Mr. UDALL (for himself and Mr. lations or properties described in the drug la- sponsored nonimmigrant pilot program, and WYDEN): for other purposes; to the Committee on the beling; to the Committee on Health, Edu- S. 1061. A bill to assure equity in con- Judiciary. cation, Labor, and Pensions. tracting between the Federal Government By Mr. RUBIO: By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and and small business concerns, and for other S. 1041. A bill to include the State of Flor- Mr. COCHRAN): purposes; to the Committee on Small Busi- S. 1050. A bill to award a Congressional ida in the Gulf of Mexico outer Continental ness and Entrepreneurship. Gold Medal, collectively, to the Chinese- Shelf revenue sharing program, to extend the By Mr. BURR (for himself and Mr. American Veterans of World War II, in rec- moratorium on oil and gas leasing in certain OUNG): ognition of their dedicated service during Y areas of the Gulf of Mexico, and for other S. 1062. A bill to increase reporting trans- World War II; to the Committee on Banking, purposes; to the Committee on Energy and parency and accountability with respect to Housing, and Urban Affairs. Natural Resources. Food and Drug Administration user fees; to By Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Mr. BROWN, By Mr. BENNET (for himself and Mr. the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, Mr. GARDNER, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. ISAKSON): and Pensions. MENENDEZ, and Mr. PETERS): S. 1042. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. BROWN: enue Code to exclude Segal Americorps Edu- S. 1051. A bill to encourage visits between the United States and Taiwan at all levels, S. 1063. A bill to amend the Public Health cation Awards and related awards from in- and for other purposes; to the Committee on Service Act to establish direct care reg- come; to the Committee on Finance. Foreign Relations. istered nurse-to-patient staffing ratio re- By Mr. BENNET (for himself and Mr. By Mr. WICKER (for himself and Ms. quirements in hospitals, and for other pur- HATCH): poses; to the Committee on Health, Edu- S. 1043. A bill to authorize pay-for-success KLOBUCHAR): S. 1052. A bill to strengthen the use of pa- cation, Labor, and Pensions. projects designed to incentivize and reward tient-experience data within the benefit-risk f successful efforts to increase postsecondary framework for approval of new drugs; to the education retention and completion rates for Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND low-income and first-generation students; to Pensions. SENATE RESOLUTIONS the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, By Mr. HATCH (for himself and Mr. and Pensions. The following concurrent resolutions LEE): By Mrs. CAPITO (for herself, Mr. and Senate resolutions were read, and S. 1053. A bill to require the Secretary of referred (or acted upon), as indicated: BROWN, Mr. COTTON, and Mr. the Interior to issue new resource manage- MANCHIN): ment plans applicable to the Beaver Dam By Mr. JOHNSON (for himself and Mrs. S. 1044. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Wash National Conservation Area and the SHAHEEN): Social Security Act to ensure equal access of Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and a S. Res. 154. A resolution promoting aware- Medicare beneficiaries to community phar- new amendment to the St. George Field Of- ness of motorcycle profiling and encouraging macies in underserved areas as network fice Resource Management Plan, and for collaboration and communication with the pharmacies under Medicare prescription other purposes; to the Committee on Energy motorcycle community and law enforcement drug coverage, and for other purposes; to the and Natural Resources. officials to prevent instances of profiling; to Committee on Finance. By Mr. WICKER (for himself and Mr. the Committee on the Judiciary. By Mrs. MURRAY (for herself, Mr. MARKEY): By Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. TESTER, Ms. BALD- S. 1054. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- MENENDEZ, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. COONS, WIN, Mr. BENNET, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. enue Code of 1986 to ensure that Mr. UDALL, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. KAINE, BROWN, Ms. CANTWELL, Mr. CARDIN, electrochromic glass qualifies as energy Mr. MARKEY, Mr. MERKLEY, and Mr. Mr. CARPER, Mr. CASEY, Mr. COONS, property for purposes of the energy credit; to BOOKER): Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, Mr. DONNELLY, the Committee on Finance. S. Res. 155. A resolution expressing the Ms. DUCKWORTH, Mr. DURBIN, Mrs. By Mr. CARDIN (for himself and Mr. sense of the Senate that the United States FEINSTEIN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mrs. GILLI- RUBIO): should work in cooperation with the inter- BRAND, Ms. HARRIS, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. S. 1055. A bill to restrict the exportation of national community and continue to exer- HEINRICH, Ms. HEITKAMP, Ms. HIRONO, certain defense articles to the Philippine Na- cise global leadership to address the causes

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By Mr. GRASSLEY (for himself, Ms. (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- S. 836 STABENOW, Mr. BLUNT, Mr. WARNER, sor of S. 341, a bill to provide for con- Mr. KAINE, Mr. KING, Mr. LANKFORD, At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the Mr. COCHRAN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. gressional oversight of actions to names of the Senator from Maine (Ms. SCOTT, Mr. DAINES, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, waive, suspend, reduce, provide relief COLLINS) and the Senator from Cali- Mr. PETERS, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. WYDEN, from, or otherwise limit the applica- fornia (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) were added as Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. BROWN, and Ms. tion of sanctions with respect to the cosponsors of S. 836, a bill to amend the KLOBUCHAR): Russian Federation, and for other pur- Federal Credit Union Act to exclude a S. Res. 156. A resolution recognizing Na- poses. tional Foster Care Month as an opportunity loan secured by a non-owner occupied S. 419 to raise awareness about the challenges of 1- to 4-family dwelling from the defini- children in the foster-care system, and en- At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the tion of a member business loan, and for couraging Congress to implement policy to names of the Senator from Texas (Mr. other purposes. improve the lives of children in the foster- CORNYN), the Senator from Louisiana S. 925 care system; to the Committee on Health, (Mr. KENNEDY), the Senator from Texas At the request of Mrs. ERNST, the Education, Labor, and Pensions. (Mr. CRUZ) and the Senator from North name of the Senator from Arkansas By Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. Carolina (Mr. TILLIS) were added as co- (Mr. BOOZMAN) was added as a cospon- MCCAIN, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. COONS, Mr. sponsors of S. 419, a bill to require ade- SCHATZ, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, and Ms. sor of S. 925, a bill to amend title 38, quate reporting on the Public Safety HIRONO): United States Code, to improve the S. Res. 157. A resolution recognizing that Officers’ Benefits program, and for ability of health care professionals to for 50 years, the Association of South East other purposes. treat veterans through the use of tele- Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its ten mem- S. 540 medicine, and for other purposes. bers—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, At the request of Mr. THUNE, the S. 926 Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singa- name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. pore, Thailand, and Vietnam—have worked At the request of Mrs. ERNST, the COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. toward stability, prosperity, and peace in name of the Senator from Idaho (Mr. 540, a bill to limit the authority of Southeast Asia; to the Committee on For- CRAPO) was added as a cosponsor of S. States to tax certain income of em- eign Relations. 926, a bill to authorize the Global War ployees for employment duties per- By Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, Mr. on Terror Memorial Foundation to es- ORNYN ENNET ORTEZ formed in other States. C , Mr. B , Ms. C tablish the National Global War on MASTO, Mr. CRUZ, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. S. 569 FRANKEN, Mr. GARDNER, Mr. HEIN- Terrorism Memorial as a commemora- At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the tive work in the District of Columbia, RICH, Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. SCHUMER, name of the Senator from Massachu- Mr. UDALL, Ms. DUCKWORTH, and Mr. and for other purposes. setts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a co- CARDIN): S. 993 S. Res. 158. A resolution recognizing the sponsor of S. 569, a bill to amend title At the request of Mr. LEE, the names cultural and historical significance of the 54, United States Code, to provide con- of the Senator from Idaho (Mr. RISCH) Cinco de Mayo holiday; considered and sistent and reliable authority for, and agreed to. for the funding of, the Land and Water and the Senator from Kansas (Mr. ROB- ERTS) were added as cosponsors of S. f Conservation Fund to maximize the ef- 993, a bill to prohibit the Federal Com- ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS fectiveness of the Fund for future gen- erations, and for other purposes. munications Commission from reclassi- fying broadband Internet access service S. 28 S. 667 as a telecommunications service and At the request of Mr. FLAKE, the At the request of Mr. FRANKEN, the from imposing certain regulations on name of the Senator from Utah (Mr. names of the Senator from North Da- providers of such service. LEE) was added as a cosponsor of S. 28, kota (Mr. HOEVEN) and the Senator S. 1027 a bill to amend the Internal Revenue from Wisconsin (Ms. BALDWIN) were Code of 1986 to expand the permissible added as cosponsors of S. 667, a bill to At the request of Mr. HATCH, the use of health savings accounts to in- amend titles 5, 10, 37, and 38, United name of the Senator from Nevada (Mr. clude health insurance payments and States Code, to ensure that an order to HELLER) was added as a cosponsor of S. to increase the dollar limitation for serve on active duty under section 1027, a bill to extend the Secure Rural contributions to health savings ac- 12304a or 12304b of title 10, United Schools and Community Self-Deter- counts, and for other purposes. States Code, is treated the same as mination Act of 2000. S. 261 other orders to serve on active duty for S. 1035 At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the determining the eligibility of members At the request of Mr. HEINRICH, the names of the Senator from Wisconsin of the uniformed services and veterans name of the Senator from Massachu- (Mr. JOHNSON) and the Senator from for certain benefits and for calculating setts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a co- Alabama (Mr. STRANGE) were added as the deadlines for certain benefits. sponsor of S. 1035, a bill to amend the cosponsors of S. 261, a bill to amend the S. 722 Employee Retirement Income Security Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act At the request of Ms. MURKOWSKI, her Act of 1974 with respect to the scope of to improve and clarify certain disclo- name was added as a cosponsor of S. employee pension benefit plans. sure requirements for restaurants and 722, a bill to impose sanctions with re- S. RES. 75 similar retail food establishments, and spect to Iran in relation to Iran’s bal- At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the to amend the authority to bring pro- listic missile program, support for acts name of the Senator from Iowa (Mr. ceedings under section 403A. of international terrorism, and viola- GRASSLEY) was added as a cosponsor of S. 319 tions of human rights, and for other S. Res. 75, a resolution recognizing the At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the purposes. 100th anniversary of the Academy of name of the Senator from Delaware At the request of Mr. CORKER, the Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest or- (Mr. COONS) was added as a cosponsor names of the Senator from Arizona ganization of food and nutrition profes- of S. 319, a bill to amend title 38, (Mr. MCCAIN), the Senator from Ohio sionals in the world. United States Code, to direct the Sec- (Mr. PORTMAN) and the Senator from f retary of Veterans Affairs to establish Louisiana (Mr. KENNEDY) were added as within the Department of Veterans Af- cosponsors of S. 722, supra. STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED fairs a center of excellence in the pre- S. 733 BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS vention, diagnosis, mitigation, treat- At the request of Ms. MURKOWSKI, the By Mr. FLAKE (for himself and ment, and rehabilitation of health con- name of the Senator from Indiana (Mr. Mr. MCCAIN): ditions relating to exposure to burn DONNELLY) was added as a cosponsor of S. 1039. A bill to indemnify local law pits. S. 733, a bill to protect and enhance op- enforcement entities for complying

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:38 Aug 22, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\MAY\S04MY7.REC S04MY7 S2776 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 with valid detainers issued by immi- indemnification. It would allow officers Whereas nationwide protests to raise gration officers; to the Committee on to fulfill their law enforcement respon- awareness and combat motorcycle profiling the Judiciary. sibilities without second-guessing have been held in multiple States; Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, immigra- whether to keep potentially dangerous Whereas in 2011, Washington signed into tion enforcement is one of the Federal law legislation stating that the criminal jus- criminal aliens in custody. tice training commission shall ensure that Government’s most essential respon- Reforming our Nation’s immigration issues related to motorcycle profiling are ad- sibilities. It is also one of the most de- policies is no easy task, let me tell dressed in basic law enforcement training bated and rightly so. Those of us in you. It is slow, frustrating work in the and offered to in-service law enforcement of- this body need to ensure that Federal Senate, but as we continue the debate, ficers in conjunction with existing training immigration laws secure our borders local law enforcement shouldn’t be left regarding profiling; from criminal and terrorist threats and to shoulder the burden as a result of Whereas reported incidents of motorcycle facilitate effective interior enforce- Washington’s failure to secure our bor- profiling have dropped approximately 90 per- ment to keep citizens safe. ders and implement a workable en- cent in the State of Washington since the 2011 legislation was signed into law; and At the same time, our laws must pro- forcement policy. I urge my colleagues to support this Whereas in the spring of 2016, Maryland be- mote a system of legal immigration came the second State to pass a law address- that encourages economic growth and commonsense legislation that will give ing the issue of motorcycle profiling: Now, opportunity, especially in border com- State and local law enforcement the therefore, be it munities like those in my home State certainty of knowing the Federal Gov- Resolved, That the Senate— of Arizona, but while we debate these ernment has their back. (1) promotes increased public awareness on policies on the Senate floor, local po- I also thank local sheriffs across the the issue of motorcycle profiling; lice officers and sheriffs around the State of Arizona who are really shoul- (2) encourages collaboration and commu- country are serving on the frontlines of dering this burden and who came to me nication with the motorcycle community immigration enforcement. These men with this issue. They want to keep and law enforcement to engage in efforts to their community safe. They want to do end motorcycle profiling; and and women put their lives on the line (3) urges State law enforcement officials to every time they go out on patrol. For what is right. It pains them to have to release someone they know is dan- include statements condemning motorcycle them, immigration policy is not a hy- profiling in written policies and training ma- pothetical exercise, it is part of the day gerous, but they can’t expose them- terials. in and day out reality of serving in law selves and their counties to the litiga- tion that would come if something like enforcement. Throughout the country, f local officers increasingly find them- this legislation is not put in place. So this is a response to a very real prob- selves coming in contact with individ- SENATE RESOLUTION 155—EX- uals who, after being apprehended for lem out there. I thank those like Sheriff Dannels, PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE the commission of a crime, are deter- Cochise County, and Sheriff Mascher, SENATE THAT THE UNITED mined to be in the country illegally. Yavapai County, Sheriff Clark of Nav- STATES SHOULD WORK IN CO- This is especially common in border ajo County, Sheriff Wilmot of Yuma OPERATION WITH THE INTER- States like Arizona. County, and many others who have NATIONAL COMMUNITY AND Once it is determined an individual been working on this issue, work on CONTINUE TO EXERCISE GLOBAL in their custody is in the country ille- the frontlines, and do a lot of work LEADERSHIP TO ADDRESS THE gally, that information is relayed to that we are very appreciative of in Ari- CAUSES AND EFFECTS OF CLI- Immigration and Customs Enforcement zona. MATE CHANGE, AND FOR OTHER or ICE. ICE can then send a request to PURPOSES local officials with instructions to hold f that individual for up to 48 hours so SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. MENEN- they can be transferred to Federal cus- DEZ, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. COONS, Mr. tody. This is called a detainer request. UDALL, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. KAINE, Mr. The partnership between law enforce- SENATE RESOLUTION 154—PRO- MARKEY, Mr. MERKLEY, and Mr. BOOK- ment authorities at all levels of gov- MOTING AWARENESS OF MOTOR- ER) submitted the following resolution; ernment leverages vital information CYCLE PROFILING AND ENCOUR- which was referred to the Committee and resources in order to keep dan- AGING COLLABORATION AND on Foreign Relations: gerous criminals off the streets. The COMMUNICATION WITH THE MO- S. RES. 155 TORCYCLE COMMUNITY AND Federal Government has no better Whereas the consensus among climatolo- partners in this effort than State and LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS gists and scientists studying the effects of local law enforcement agencies from TO PREVENT INSTANCES OF atmospheric change, including the Intergov- Arizona. PROFILING ernmental Panel on Climate Change, the Na- Despite the critical role these enti- Mr. JOHNSON (for himself and Mrs. tional Academy of Science, the United ties play in assisting their Federal SHAHEEN) submitted the following reso- States Geological Survey, the National Oce- partners with immigration enforce- lution; which was referred to the Com- anic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space Administra- ment, current Federal policy leaves mittee on the Judiciary: tion, and other agencies within the United them exposed with the threat of costly S. RES. 154 States Global Change Research Program, litigation. That is because third-party Whereas motorcycle ridership has contin- have determined that the impact of climate groups that oppose detention have ued to increase over time with registrations change will include widespread effects on threatened local agencies that choose growing from 3,826,373 in 1997 to 8,600,936 in health and welfare, including increased out- to comply with valid detainer requests. 2015; breaks from waterborne diseases, more They are threatened with lawsuits. Whereas, as of August 2016, the ongoing droughts, diminished agricultural produc- Using punitive legal action to punish National Motorcycle Profiling Survey 2016, tion, severe storms and floods, heat waves, conducted by the Motorcycle Profiling wildfires, and a substantial rise in global sea law enforcement for good-faith efforts Project, found that approximately 1⁄2 of the levels; to keep people safe is simply wrong. motorcyclists surveyed felt that they had Whereas the objective of the 1992 United We can have this policy debate with- been profiled by law enforcement at least Nations Framework Convention on Climate out jeopardizing public safety and the once; Change (UNFCCC) is to stabilize greenhouse ability of local law enforcement offi- Whereas motorcycle profiling means the il- gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a cers to do their job. That is why I am legal use of the fact that a person rides a mo- level that will prevent dangerous human in- introducing the Support Local Law En- torcycle or wears motorcycle related apparel terference with the climate system; forcement Detainer Indemnity Act. as a factor in deciding to stop and question, Whereas, under the UNFCCC, the United This bill will require the Department take enforcement action, arrest, or search a States is obligated to report its progress on person or vehicle with or without legal basis reducing emissions; of Homeland Security to protect State under the Constitution of the United States; Whereas the Senate provided its advice and and local law enforcement entities Whereas complaints surrounding motor- consent to the UNFCCC by division, with from lawsuits that uphold valid de- cycle profiling have been cited in all 50 two-thirds of Senators present voting in the tainer requests from ICE. This is called States; affirmative, on October 7, 1992;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.020 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2777 Whereas, in 2011, at the 17th Conference of States taxpayers billions of dollars each year (2) these changes, in turn, will have direct the Parties (COP 17) to the UNFCCC in Dur- in recovery efforts, and will continue to in- and indirect social, economic, political, and ban, South Africa, parties agreed to nego- crease if climate change is left unaddressed; security effects; and tiate an agreement by the end of 2015 to re- Whereas decreased GDP and increased (3) extreme weather can trigger crop fail- duce emissions in the post-2020 period; costs of infrastructure repairs and other re- ures, wildfires, energy blackouts, infrastruc- Whereas the UNFCCC calls on parties to covery efforts will significantly increase ture breakdown, supply chain breakdowns, submit intended nationally-determined con- budget deficits and undermine the fiscal sta- migration, and infectious disease outbreaks, tributions outlining voluntary individual bility of the United States; and will be more pronounced as people con- targets for emissions reductions by the time Whereas climate change will have dev- centrate in climate vulnerable locations, parties convened in Paris on November 30, astating public health implications, includ- such as cities, coastal areas, and water- 2015, for the 21st Conference of the Parties ing increased rates of asthma and other res- stressed regions; (COP 21) to the UNFCCC; piratory diseases, especially in vulnerable Whereas the Department of Agriculture Whereas, prior to completing the multilat- populations like children and low income has determined that climate change is likely eral Paris Agreement on international co- communities, the spread of infectious dis- to diminish continued progress on global operation to address climate change, done at eases, risks to food and water supplies, and food security through production disruptions Paris December 12, 2015, 187 nations, rep- increased premature deaths; that lead to local availability limitations resenting more than 97 percent of global Whereas the emissions reductions pledged and price increases, interrupted transport greenhouse gas emissions, voluntarily sub- by the United States under the Paris Agree- conduits, and diminished food safety, among mitted nationally determined goals and ment may save nearly 300,000 lives in the other causes; plans to reduce their greenhouse gas pollu- United States by 2030 as a result of positive Whereas, according to the World Bank, tion; health outcomes corresponding to lower air 1,600,000,000 people currently live in coun- Whereas independent analyses by the Na- pollution; tries and regions with absolute water scar- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- Whereas studies conducted by the NASA city and the number is expected to rise to tion and the National Aeronautics and Space Earth Observatory determined that as the 2,800,000,000 people by 2025 due to the effects Administration confirmed that 2016 was the oceans have warmed, polar ice has melted of climate change; warmest year on record, making 2015 the sec- and porous landmasses have subsided, global Whereas the transition to a clean energy ond warmest year on record and 2014 the mean sea level has risen by 8 inches (20 cen- economy is feasible with existing tech- third warmest year on record, continuing a timeters) since 1870, and the rate of sea level nology; 35 year-long warming trend with 16 of the 17 rise is faster now than at any time in the Whereas the transition to clean energy will warmest years on record occurring since past 2,000 years, having doubled in the past create millions of jobs; 2001; two decades, putting 55 to 60 percent of Whereas the transition to clean energy will Whereas the United States-China Joint An- United States citizens who live in counties increase United States GDP and increase nouncement on Climate Change of November touching the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean, the household income; 2014 included a United States goal to reduce Gulf of Mexico, or the Great Lakes at risk Whereas the transition to clean energy will its emissions by 26-28 percent below 2005 lev- from the effects of sea level rise; save billions of dollars in avoided health els by 2025 and a Chinese goal to peak emis- Whereas the Department of Defense has costs; sions output by 2030 and increase the use of identified climate change as a ‘‘threat multi- Whereas the transition to clean energy will non-fossil fuels to 20 percent of its overall plier’’ that will increase global instability save lives and improve public health; energy portfolio by 2030; and conflict with the potential to increase Whereas the transition to clean energy will Whereas, under the United States-India terrorism; lower energy costs for businesses and con- Joint Announcement on Climate and Clean Whereas the 2014 Quadrennial Defense Re- sumers; Energy of January 2015, the two countries view states that ‘‘[t]he impacts of climate Whereas the transition to clean energy will pledged to increase cooperation on clean en- change may increase the frequency, scale, unlock billions of dollars in private invest- ergy financing and development and India and complexity of future missions, including ment; and committed to phase out use of hydrofluorocarbons and increase promotion defense support to civil authorities, while at Whereas, more than half of all electrical of energy efficiency tools and reaffirmed its the same time undermining the capacity of generating capacity added in the world last commitment to add 100 gigawatts of solar ca- our domestic installations to support train- year was renewable: Now, therefore, be it pacity by 2022; ing activities,’’ and notes that— Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate (1) climate change may exacerbate water Whereas small island states, whose people that the United States should— scarcity and lead to sharp increases in food are among the most vulnerable to climate (1) work in cooperation with the inter- costs; national community and continue to exer- change, are threatened with partial or vir- (2) the pressures caused by climate change tually total inundation by imminent rises in cise global leadership in our shared respon- will influence resource competition while sibilities, including holding parties account- sea level and increased intensity and fre- placing additional burdens on economies, so- quency of storms; able for meeting their commitments, and ad- cieties, and governance institutions around dress the causes and effects of climate Whereas global greenhouse gas emissions the world; and have remained level for the past three years, change; (3) these effects are threat multipliers that (2) remain party to the Paris Agreement even while global Gross Domestic Product will aggravate stressors abroad such as pov- (GDP) has grown; and the UNFCCC; erty, environmental degradation, political (3) continue demonstrating strong leader- Whereas United States international lead- instability, and social tensions—conditions ership on the global stage throughout the ship in implementing the Paris Agreement; that can enable terrorist activity and other (4) ensure that the development of the poli- United Nations Framework Convention on forms of violence; cies and procedures prescribed by the Paris Climate Change’s 21st Conference of Parties Whereas the Department of Defense report, Agreement achieve maximum benefits for process resulted in unprecedented inter- ‘‘National Security Implications of Climate- the United States; and national cooperation and engagement on the Related Risks and a Changing Climate’’— (5) implement its commitments under the development of the Paris Agreement; (1) states that global climate change will Paris Agreement and the UNFCCC. Whereas the Paris Agreement received have wide-ranging implications for United consensus approval from the more than 190 States national security interests over the f delegates to the United Nations Framework foreseeable future because it will aggravate Convention on Climate Change’s 21st Con- existing problems, such as poverty, social ference of Parties; tensions, environmental degradation, inef- SENATE RESOLUTION 156—RECOG- Whereas the Paris Agreement reached its fectual leadership, and weak political insti- NIZING NATIONAL FOSTER CARE thresholds for entry into force faster than tutions, that threaten domestic stability in MONTH AS AN OPPORTUNITY TO any other multilateral international agree- a number of countries; and RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT THE ment of comparable size and scope; (2) identifies four general areas of climate- CHALLENGES OF CHILDREN IN Whereas, as of the date of introduction of related risks: persistently recurring condi- THE FOSTER-CARE SYSTEM, AND this resolution, 127 of the 197 parties to the tions such as flooding, drought, and higher ENCOURAGING CONGRESS TO IM- Paris Agreement, representing 81.4 percent temperatures; more frequent and more se- PLEMENT POLICY TO IMPROVE of global greenhouse gas emissions, have of- vere extreme weather events; sea level rise ficially joined the agreement, demonstrating and temperature changes; and decreases in THE LIVES OF CHILDREN IN THE the urgency and importance the global com- Arctic ice cover, type, and thickness; FOSTER-CARE SYSTEM munity places on addressing climate change; Whereas the Director of National Mr. GRASSLEY (for himself, Ms. Whereas the cost of inaction on climate Intelligence’s 2017 Global Trends Report de- STABENOW, Mr. BLUNT, Mr. WARNER, change will have devastating impacts to the termined that— United States economy, costing billions of (1) changes in the climate will produce Mr. KAINE, Mr. KING, Mr. LANKFORD, dollars in lost GDP; more extreme weather events and put great- Mr. COCHRAN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. SCOTT, Whereas extreme weather, intensified by er stress on humans and critical systems, in- Mr. DAINES, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. climate change, has already cost United cluding oceans, freshwater, and biodiversity; PETERS, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. WYDEN, Mrs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.022 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2778 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 4, 2017 MURRAY, Mr. BROWN, and Ms. KLO- antipsychotic medications at 3 to 9 times the SENATE RESOLUTION 157—RECOG- BUCHAR) submitted the following reso- rate of other children receiving Medicaid; NIZING THAT FOR 50 YEARS, THE lution; which was referred to the Com- Whereas due to heavy caseloads and lim- ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH EAST mittee on Health, Education, Labor, ited resources, the average tenure for a ASIAN NATIONS (ASEAN) AND and Pensions: worker in child protection services is just 3 ITS TEN MEMBERS—BRUNEI, years; S. RES. 156 CAMBODIA, INDONESIA, LAOS, Whereas States, localities, and commu- Whereas National Foster Care Month was MALAYSIA, MYANMAR, THE nities should be encouraged to invest re- established more than 20 years ago to— sources in preventative and reunification PHILIPPINES, SINGAPORE, THAI- (1) bring foster-care issues to the forefront; LAND, AND VIETNAM—HAVE (2) highlight the importance of perma- services and postpermanency programs to nency for every child; and ensure that more children in foster care are WORKED TOWARD STABILITY, (3) recognize the essential role that foster provided with safe, loving, and permanent PROSPERITY, AND PEACE IN parents, social workers, and advocates have placements; SOUTHEAST ASIA in the lives of children in foster care Whereas Federal legislation over the past 3 Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. throughout the United States; decades, including the Adoption Assistance MCCAIN, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. COONS, Mr. Whereas all children deserve a safe, loving, and Child Welfare Act of 1980 (Public Law 96– SCHATZ, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, and Ms. and permanent home; 272), the Adoption and Safe Families Act of Whereas the primary goal of the foster- 1997 (Public Law 105–89), the Fostering Con- HIRONO) submitted the following reso- care system is to ensure the safety and well- nections to Success and Increasing Adop- lution; which was referred to the Com- being of children while working to provide a tions Act of 2008 (Public Law 110–351), the mittee on Foreign Relations: safe, loving, and permanent home for each child; Child and Family Services Improvement and S. RES. 157 Whereas there are approximately 428,000 Innovation Act (Public Law 112–34), and the Whereas the United States and ASEAN children living in foster care; Preventing Sex Trafficking and Strength- have worked together to advance our shared Whereas there were approximately 269,509 ening Families Act (Public Law 113–183) pro- goals for 40 years, having established dia- youth that entered the foster-care system in vided new investments and services to im- logue relations on September 10, 1977, with 2015, while over 62,000 youth were eligible prove the outcomes of children in the foster- the issuing of the 1977 Joint Communique of and awaiting adoption at the end of 2015; care system; the First ASEAN-United States Dialogue, Whereas children of color are more likely Whereas May 2017 is an appropriate month and the United States acceding to the Treaty to stay in the foster-care system for longer to designate as National Foster Care Month of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia periods of time and are less likely to be re- to provide an opportunity to acknowledge (TAC) at the ASEAN Post Ministerial Con- united with their biological families; the accomplishments of the child-welfare ference Session with the United States in Whereas foster parents are the front-line workforce, foster parents, advocacy commu- Thailand on July 22, 2009; caregivers for children who cannot safely re- nity, and mentors for their dedication, ac- Whereas the United States was the first main with their biological parents and pro- complishments, and positive impact they non-ASEAN country to appoint an ambas- vide physical care, emotional support, edu- sador to ASEAN on April 29, 2008, and the have on the lives of children; and cation advocacy, and are the largest single first dialogue partner to establish a perma- Whereas much remains to be done to en- source of families providing permanent nent mission to ASEAN in 2010; sure that all children have a safe, loving, homes for children leaving foster care to Whereas the United States has supported adoption; nurturing, and permanent family, regardless efforts to strengthen the ASEAN Secretariat Whereas children in foster care who are of age or special needs: Now, therefore, be it and expand its role in providing greater co- placed with relatives, compared to children Resolved, That the Senate— ordination between, and enhancing the effec- placed with nonrelatives, have more sta- (1) supports the designation of National tiveness of, regional institutions; bility, including fewer changes in place- Foster Care Month; Whereas working together, the Govern- ments, have more positive perceptions of (2) recognizes National Foster Care Month ments and people of the United States and their placements, are more likely to be as an opportunity to raise awareness about ASEAN can help realize their common vision placed with their siblings, and demonstrate the challenges that children face in the fos- of a peaceful, prosperous, rules-based Asia- fewer behavioral problems; ter-care system; Pacific region that offers security, oppor- Whereas some relative caregivers receive (3) encourages Congress to implement pol- tunity, and dignity to all of its citizens; less financial assistance and support services Whereas ASEAN’s 10 members, taken col- icy to improve the lives of children in the than do foster caregivers; lectively, are the 7th largest economy in the foster-care system; Whereas an increased emphasis on preven- world, with an annual gross domestic prod- (4) acknowledges the unique needs of chil- tion and reunification services is necessary uct of $2,400,000,000,000, and represent the to reduce the number of children that are dren in the foster-care system; United States’ fourth-largest export market forced to remain in the foster-care system; (5) recognizes foster youth throughout the with total two-way trade in goods and serv- Whereas more than 20,000 youth ‘‘aged out’’ United States for their ongoing tenacity, ices reaching $254,000,000,000, allowing over of foster care in 2015 without a legal perma- courage, and resilience while facing life chal- 780,000 visitors to the United States in 2015, nent connection to an adult or family; lenges; which contribute more than $5,000,000,000 to Whereas children who age out of foster (6) acknowledges the exceptional alumni of the United States economy, and accounting care lack the security or support of a bio- the foster-care system who serve as advo- for more than 500,000 jobs in the United logical or adoptive family and frequently cates and role models for youth who remain States; struggle to secure affordable housing, obtain in care; Whereas ASEAN’s 10 members represent a health insurance, pursue higher education, (7) honors the commitment and dedication diverse group of nations and dynamic econo- and acquire adequate employment; of the individuals who work tirelessly to pro- mies with an expanding workforce, a growing Whereas foster care is intended to be a vide assistance and services to children in middle class, and a diverse set of skills, cul- temporary placement, but children remain the foster-care system; and tures, and resources, which of the estimated in the foster-care system for an average of 19 (8) reaffirms the need to continue working 20,000,000 Asian Americans in the United months; to improve the outcomes of all children in States, includes over 7,000,000 who identify Whereas children in foster care experience the foster-care system through parts B and E with an ASEAN ethnicity, including 4,000,000 an average of 3 different placements, which of title IV of the Social Security Act (42 Filipinos and 1,900,000 Vietnamese; often leads to disruption of routines and the Whereas ASEAN is home to critical global U.S.C. 601 et seq.) and other programs de- need to change schools and move away from sea lanes located at the center of the world’s signed to— siblings, extended families, and familiar sur- strongest economic growth area, with (A) support vulnerable families; roundings; $5,300,000,000,000 of global trade and more Whereas youth in foster care are much (B) invest in prevention and reunification than half of total shipped tonnage transiting more likely to face educational instability services; through ASEAN’s waters each year; with 65 percent of former foster children ex- (C) promote adoption in cases where reuni- Whereas ASEAN, taken collectively, is one periencing at least 7 school changes while in fication is not in the best interests of the of the fastest growing economies in Asia care; child; after China and India, expanding by 66 per- Whereas children entering foster care often (D) adequately serve those children cent since 2006 and exceeding the global confront the widespread misperception that brought into the foster-care system; and growth average for the past ten years; children in foster care are disruptive, unruly, (E) facilitate the successful transition into Whereas the ASEAN Economic Community and dangerous, even though placement in adulthood for children that ‘‘age out’’ of the aims to create one of the largest single mar- foster care is based on the actions of a par- foster-care system. ket economies in the world, facilitating the ent or guardian, not the child; free movement of goods, services, and profes- Whereas recent studies show foster chil- sionals and engendering a sense of economic dren enrolled in Medicaid were prescribed community among its member states;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY6.023 S04MYPT1 lotter on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2779 Whereas the United States is the largest duction, and confidence building in cyber- where he met with the ASEAN Secretary investor in Southeast Asia, with total for- space; General and ASEAN Permanent Representa- eign direct investment stock of nearly Whereas the 2016 East Asia Summit in tives, congratulated ASEAN on its 50th anni- $273,500,000,000 in 2014, creating millions of Vientiane adopted a statement on non-pro- versary, and remarked on the 40th anniver- jobs in the United States and in ASEAN liferation that reaffirmed the United States’, sary of the United States’ diplomatic rela- Member States, while investment in the ASEAN’s, and other Dialogue Partners’ lead- tionship with ASEAN, noting that the United States from Southeast Asia has in- ers’ support for efforts at the national, re- United States-ASEAN relationship ‘‘without creased more than any other region’s invest- gional, and international level to promote a doubt has benefitted both ASEAN and ment in the past decade; nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-prolifera- America—diplomatically, economically, and Whereas the United States has helped tion, and peaceful uses of nuclear energy, from the standpoint of national security’’; ASEAN create a Single Window customs fa- and reiterated the importance of nuclear se- Whereas, on this visit, Vice President cilitation system that will aid in expediting curity to combating nuclear terrorism; Pence pledged that the United States would intra-ASEAN trade and make it easier for Whereas North Korea’s provocative missile ‘‘redouble our cooperation with ASEAN on United States businesses to operate in the launches and nuclear tests highlights the issues of regional security’’ and continue to region; threat posed by its nuclear and ballistic mis- support ‘‘increased information sharing and Whereas the United States-ASEAN Busi- sile programs and contradicts calls by security efforts to protect our people and our ness Alliance for Competitive Small and Me- ASEAN leaders at the 2016 East Asia Summit way of life across the ASEAN region and dium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) has already in Vientiane for North Korea to abide by across the wider world,’’ and ‘‘continue to multiple United Nations Security Council work closely with ASEAN to promote peace trained more than 4,600 small to medium en- resolutions and international obligations; and stability in the South China Sea by up- terprises, with nearly half of the individuals Whereas changes in climatic conditions in holding a rules-based order, ensuring the trained being young women entrepreneurs; the ASEAN region over the past four decades lawful and unimpeded flow of commerce, and Whereas United States-ASEAN develop- have resulted in major loss and damage encouraging the peaceful and diplomatic res- ment cooperation has focused on innovation throughout the ASEAN region with a dis- olution of disputes’’; and capacity-building efforts in technology, proportionate impact on developing coun- Whereas, on this visit, Vice President education, disaster management, food secu- tries, with the experiences of Cyclone Nargis Pence remarked that ‘‘by strengthening our rity, human rights, and trade facilitation; in Myanmar and Typhoon Haiyan in the economic ties, the United States and ASEAN Whereas the Lower Mekong Initiative, es- Philippines, as well as the impacts that cli- member nations can foster jobs, prosperity, tablished on July 23, 2009, is a multinational mate-caused ocean acidification has had on and growth in new and unprecedented ways’’ effort that helps promote sustainable eco- fish stocks, coral resources, and coastal agri- and that ‘‘American exports to ASEAN mem- nomic development in mainland Southeast culture, providing stark evidence of the de- ber nations already support more than Asia to foster integrated, multisectoral, sub- structive impacts on the region; 550,000 jobs in the United States, and almost regional cooperation and capacity building; Whereas conservation and sustainable 42,000 U.S. companies export more than Whereas the Declaration on the Conduct of management of forests throughout ASEAN $100,000,000,000 in goods and services to Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) was play an important role in helping to miti- ASEAN nations every year’’; and signed by all members of ASEAN and the gate changes in the climate, reduce the risks Whereas, on this visit, Vice President People’s Republic of China (PRC) on Novem- of extreme weather events and other cli- Pence announced that President Trump will ber 4, 2002, committing ASEAN and the PRC mate-driven disasters, and provide sustain- attend the U.S.-ASEAN Summit, the East to ‘‘exercise self-restraint in the conduct of able economic livelihood opportunities for Asia Summit in the Philippines, and the activities that would complicate or escalate local communities; APEC Leaders Meeting in Vietnam this No- disputes and affect peace and stability,’’ and Whereas the United States will pursue ini- vember: Now, therefore, be it reaffirming that ‘‘the adoption of a code of tiatives that are consistent with broader sus- Resolved, That the Senate— conduct in the South China Sea would fur- tainable development, including the achieve- (1) welcomes the leaders of the Association ther promote peace and stability in the re- ment of food security and poverty allevi- of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) to the gion and agree to work, on the basis of con- ation throughout the ASEAN region; United States for the meetings with Sec- sensus, toward the eventual attainment of Whereas the United States is a committed retary of State Rex Tillerson and congres- this objective’’; partner with ASEAN on the protection of sional members, and affirms the meeting as Whereas the leaders of the United States human rights, which are not only essential the first regular United States-ASEAN meet- and ASEAN, at their Special Leaders Sum- for fostering and maintaining stability, secu- ings; mit in Sunnylands, California on February rity, and good governance, but protecting (2) supports and affirms the elevation of 16, 2016, reaffirmed their shared commitment the basic rights and fundamental dignities of the United States-ASEAN relationship to a to maintain peace, security, and stability in the people of ASEAN; strategic partnership and recommits the the region and ensure maritime security and Whereas the United States supports the United States to ASEAN centrality and to safety, including by respecting the rights of work and mandate of the ASEAN Intergov- helping to build a strong, stable, politically freedom of navigation and overflight and ernmental Commission on Human Rights cohesive, economically integrated, and so- other lawful uses of the seas, and unimpeded (AICHR), including capacity building for the cially responsible ASEAN community with lawful maritime commerce as described in promotion and protection of human rights common rules, norms, procedures, and stand- the 1982 United Nations Convention on the and the AICHR’s priorities programs, and ac- ards consistent with international law and Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as well as non- tivities; the principles of a rules-based Asia-Pacific militarization and self-restraint in the con- Whereas the Young Southeast Asian Lead- community; duct of activities; ers Program has now engaged over 100,000 (3) urges ASEAN to continue its efforts to Whereas ASEAN is a partner to the United people between the ages of 18 and 35 across foster greater integration and unity toward States on key transnational challenges, such all 10 ASEAN nations to promote innovation the ASEAN community; as terrorism, violent extremism, climate among young people while also providing (4) recognizes the value of ASEAN working change, environmental degradation and pol- skills to a new generation who will create with economic, political, and security part- lution, energy, infectious diseases, disar- and fill the jobs of the future; ners such as Australia, Canada, the Euro- mament, proliferation of weapons of mass Whereas the irregular movement of per- pean Union, India, Japan, New Zealand, Nor- destruction, cybersecurity, trafficking in sons continues to be one of the main security way, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan both persons, illicit trafficking of wildlife and threats in the Southeast Asia region; inside of and outside of Asia, as well as the timber, and illegal, unregulated, and unre- Whereas addressing migration flows and advantage of strategic economic initiatives ported fishing; combating human smuggling and human like the U.S.-ASEAN Connect that dem- Whereas the United States supports the trafficking in ASEAN is an important, ongo- onstrate a commitment to ASEAN and the East Asia Summit (EAS) as the premier ing challenge requiring increased coordina- AEC and build upon economic relationships leaders-led forum for dialogue and coopera- tion and shared responsibility; in the region; tion on political, security, and economic Whereas, on November 21, 2015, ASEAN (5) reaffirms the enhancement of United issues in the region and commends the direc- Member Sates signed the ASEAN Convention States-ASEAN economic engagement, in- tion set in the Kuala Lampur Declaration at Against Trafficking in Persons, Especially cluding the elimination of barriers to cross- the EAS’ 10th anniversary, including the new Women and Children, which represents an border commerce, and supports the ASEAN exchange mechanism for EAS members’ am- important step forward in preventing human Economic Community’s goals, including bassadors; trafficking, prosecuting the perpetrators, strong, inclusive, and sustainable growth Whereas the United States, ASEAN, and and protecting the survivors; and cooperation with the United States that other Dialogue Partners, through the 2015 Whereas the United States supports focuses on innovation and capacity building East Asia Summit, adopted a statement on ASEAN Member States in anticorruption ef- efforts in technology, education, disaster transnational cyber issues that emphasizes forts through, among other initiatives, the management, food security, human rights, the importance of regional cooperation to implementation of the United Nations Con- and trade facilitation, including for improve the security and stability of cyber vention Against Corruption; ASEAN’s poorest countries; networks, setting an important precedent for Whereas Vice President Mike Pence trav- (6) supports efforts by ASEAN nations to strengthening practical cooperation, risk re- eled to Jakarta, Indonesia on April 20, 2017, address maritime and territorial disputes in

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MEET support in international law; f (9) opposes unilateral declarations of ad- Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. President, I ministrative and military districts in con- SENATE RESOLUTION 158—RECOG- have 8 requests for committees to meet tested areas in the South China Sea; NIZING THE CULTURAL AND HIS- during today’s session of the Senate. (10) supports efforts to negotiate the joint TORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE They have the approval of the Majority management of maritime resources through CINCO DE MAYO HOLIDAY and Minority leaders. diplomacy and peaceful negotiation; (11) urges parties to refrain from unilateral Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, Mr. Pursuant to Rule XXVI, paragraph actions that cause permanent physical dam- CORNYN, Mr. BENNET, Ms. CORTEZ 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- age to the marine environment and supports MASTO, Mr. CRUZ, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. ate, the following committees are au- the efforts of the National Oceanic and At- FRANKEN, Mr. GARDNER, Mr. HEINRICH, thorized to meet during today’s session mospheric Administration and ASEAN to Mrs. MURRAY, Mr. SCHUMER, Mr. of the Senate. implement guidelines to address illegal, un- UDALL, Ms. DUCKWORTH, and Mr. COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES reported, and unregulated fishing in the re- CARDIN) submitted the following reso- The Committee on Armed Services is gion; lution; which was considered and (12) supports efforts by United States part- authorized to meet during the session ners and allies in ASEAN— agreed to: of the Senate on Thursday, May 4, 2017, (A) to enhance maritime capability and S. RES. 158 at 9:30 a.m. maritime domain awareness; Whereas May 5, or ‘‘Cinco de Mayo’’ in COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN (B) to protect unhindered access to and use Spanish, is celebrated each year as a date of AFFAIRS of international waterways in the Asia-Pa- importance by Mexican and Mexican-Amer- cific region that are critical to ensuring the ican communities; The Committee on Banking, Housing, security and free flow of commerce; Whereas the Cinco de Mayo holiday com- and Urban Affairs is authorized to (C) to counter piracy; memorates May 5, 1862, the date on which meet during the session of the Senate (D) to disrupt illicit maritime trafficking Mexicans defeated the French at the Battle on Thursday, May 4, 2017, at 10 a.m. to activities such as the trafficking of persons, of Puebla, one of the many battles that the hold a hearing entitled ‘‘Reauthoriza- goods, and drugs; and Mexican people won in their long and brave tion of the National Flood Insurance (E) to enhance the maritime capabilities of fight for independence, freedom, and democ- countries or regional organizations to re- racy; Program, Part II.’’ spond to emerging threats to maritime secu- Whereas the victory of Mexico over France COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL rity in the Asia-Pacific region; at Puebla represented a historic triumph for RESOURCES (13) urges ASEAN Member States to de- the Mexican government during the Franco- The Senate Committee on Energy velop a common approach to reaffirm the de- Mexican war fought between 1861 and 1867 and Natural Resources is authorized to cision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and bolstered the resistance movement; meet during the session of the Senate in The Hague’s ruling with respect to the Whereas the success of Mexico at the Bat- in order to hold a hearing on Thursday, case between the Republic of the Philippines tle of Puebla reinvigorated the spirits of the and the People’s Republic of China; Mexican people and provided a renewed sense May 4, 2017, at 10 a.m. in Room 366 of (14) reaffirms the commitment of the of unity and strength; the Dirksen Senate Office Building in United States to continue joint efforts with Whereas the French army, which had not Washington, DC. ASEAN to halt human smuggling and traf- experienced defeat against any of the finest COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS ficking in persons and urges ASEAN to make troops of Europe in more than half a cen- The Committee on Foreign Relations increased efforts to create and strengthen re- tury, sustained a disastrous loss at the hands is authorized to meet during the ses- gional mechanisms to provide assistance and of an outnumbered and ill-equipped, but support to refugees and migrants; highly spirited and courageous, Mexican sion of the Senate on Thursday, May 4, (15) supports the Lower Mekong Initiative, army; 2017, at 10 a.m., to hold a hearing enti- which has made significant progress in pro- Whereas the courageous spirit that Mexi- tled ‘‘International Development: moting sustainable economic development in can General Ignacio Zaragoza and his men Value Added Through Private Sector mainland Southeast Asia and fostering inte- displayed during that historic battle can Engagement.’’ grated subregional cooperation and capacity never be forgotten; COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY building; Whereas, in a larger sense, Cinco de Mayo (16) urges ASEAN to build capacity for the symbolizes the right of a free people to self- The Committee on the Judiciary is promotion and protection of human rights determination, just as Benito Juarez, the authorized to meet during the session by ASEAN member states, and the imple- president of Mexico during the Battle of of the Senate on Thursday, May 4, 2017, mentation of related priorities, programs, Puebla, once said, ‘‘El respeto al derecho at 2 p.m., in S–216 of the Capitol, to and activities; ajeno es la paz’’, meaning ‘‘respect for the conduct an executive business meeting. (17) urges ASEAN governments to engage rights of others is peace’’; COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE directly with leaders of civil society and Whereas the sacrifice of Mexican fighters human rights, including advocates of reli- was instrumental in keeping Mexico from The Senate Select Committee on In- gious freedom and victims of human rights falling under European domination while, in telligence is authorized to meet during abuses, and environmental groups and to the United States, the Union Army battled the session of the 115th Congress of the prioritize the construction of forums that Confederate forces in the Civil War; U.S. Senate on Thursday, May 4, 2017

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Mr. President, I thank ate Hart Office Building to hold a objection, it is so ordered. the majority leader. closed hearing. The resolution (S. Res. 158) was f SUBCOMMITTEE ON AVIATION OPERATIONS, agreed to. The preamble was agreed to. SAFETY AND SECURITY REMEMBERING DON DUNWELL The Committee on Commerce, (The resolution, with its preamble, is Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise to Science, and Transportation is author- printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- remember the life of a journalist, a ized to hold a meeting during the ses- mitted Resolutions.’’) husband, a father, a community leader, sion of the Senate on Thursday, May 4, f a guy by the name of Don Dunwell. 2017, at 10:30 a.m., in room 253 of the PROGRAM Dunwell was known for his thoughtful Russell Senate Office Building. interviewing style, creative story- The Committee will hold a Sub- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, for telling, his ability to connect with the committee Hearing on ‘‘Question, An- the information of all Senators, the thousands of viewers who entrusted swer, and Perspectives on the Current comeback votes on Monday night are him to deliver the news to them. State of Airline Travel.’’ on confirmation of Heather Wilson as Secretary of the Air Force, and cloture It was common to find Don teaching f on the nomination of Scott Gottlieb to and mentoring young reporters about APPOINTMENT head the FDA. We plan to move on the the ins and outs of journalism. He be- U.S. Trade Representative, Robert lieved fiercely in the free press and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Lighthizer, as well, next week. strong ethics that were required to be Chair, on behalf of the majority leader, f a trusted source of information. He after consultation with the Democratic never took his platform for granted, leader, pursuant to Public Law 93–415, ORDERS FOR FRIDAY, MAY 5, 2017, and he used it to make Montana and as amended by Public Law 102–586, an- AND MONDAY, MAY 8, 2017 this Nation a better place. nounces the appointment of the fol- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Outside the newsroom, he was a lowing individual to the Coordinating ask unanimous consent that when the proud father to John, working hard Council on Juvenile Justice and Delin- Senate completes its business today, it each day to ensure that his son had quency Prevention: the Honorable adjourn until Friday, May 5, at 12 every opportunity possible. Don was David Tapp of Kentucky (3 year term). noon, for a pro forma session only, immensely proud of his wife Mary Ann f with no business being conducted. I who charted her own path as a public RECOGNIZING THE CULTURAL AND further ask that when the Senate ad- servant. HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF journs on Friday, May 5, it next con- Today, we remember the life and the THE CINCO DE MAYO HOLIDAY vene at 2 p.m., Monday, May 8; further, legacy of Don Dunwell and aim to fol- that following the prayer and pledge, low in his ever-fervent footsteps. Don Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I the morning hour be deemed expired, was 82 when he passed. He was bitten ask unanimous consent that the Sen- the Journal of proceedings be approved by a bug that made him look much ate proceed to the immediate consider- to date, the time for the two leaders be younger than that, but he was a fine ation of S. Res. 158, submitted earlier reserved for their use later in the day, man and a good friend. today. and morning business be closed; fi- I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The nally, that following leader remarks, clerk will report the resolution by the Senate resume executive session as f title. under the previous order. The senior assistant legislative clerk The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ADJOURNMENT UNTIL TOMORROW read as follows: objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under A resolution (S. Res. 158) recognizing the f the previous order, the Senate stands cultural and historical significance of the adjourned until 12 noon tomorrow. Cinco de Mayo holiday. ORDER FOR ADJOURNMENT Thereupon, the Senate, at 4:30 p.m., There being no objection, the Senate Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, if adjourned until Friday, May 5, 2017, at proceeded to consider the resolution. there is no further business to come be- 12 noon.

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WORKING FAMILIES FLEXIBILITY minimum ‘‘tipped’’ wage, which would lift 37.7 lish a tax supported school for blacks. Dr. W. ACT OF 2017 millions workers out of poverty. R. Pettiford, president of the Alabama Penny People should not have to work more than Savings Bank, a black-owned financial institu- SPEECH OF 40 hours in a week and forgo pay to earn time tion, and Mrs. B. H. Hudson, a cashier of that HON. JOYCE BEATTY to care for themselves or their loved ones. bank, were the leading supporters of the ef- I join my Democratic colleagues in fighting fort. OF OHIO to protect attacks on pay and benefits for The school officially opened as a high IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES working class families instead, and will vote no school for African-American children in the fall Tuesday, May 2, 2017 on H.R. 1180. of 1900 with a freshman class of 19 students Ms. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposi- f and one teacher. Arthur Harold Parker was tion of the Working Families Flexibility Act, appointed by the board to serve as the first H.R. 1180. HONORING OFFICERS MAURO AND principal. In 1939, Parker retired and the Mr. Speaker, the Fair Labor Standards Act FRANCEMONE school was subsequently renamed in his (FLSA) already allows employers to let their honor. employees earn paid time off. HON. JOHN KATKO The school’s first graduation was held June That is why the bill passed by the House OF NEW YORK 3, 1904, at the historic 16th Street Baptist earlier this week, the Working Families Flexi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Church, which is now part of the Birmingham bility Act, H.R. 1180, would hurt working fami- Civil Rights National Monument. Fifteen stu- Thursday, May 4, 2017 lies by giving workers less time off, less flexi- dents received diplomas at the ceremony. bility and less pay. Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to In September 1910, the school moved to a Many workers frequently rely on their over- honor the heroic actions of two law enforce- temporary location—the Lane Auditorium—and time earnings to make ends meet to help put ment officers from my district, Syracuse Police began offering skills for women such as sew- food on the table, keep a roof over their fami- Department Officers Joseph Mauro and ing, knitting, and child care. By that time the lies’ heads, and pay bills. Kelsey Francemone. enrollment was about 100 students. Construc- Instead of paying workers for their overtime Both of these officers put their own lives on tion of a permanent facility began in 1923, and work, H.R. 1180 would permit employers to re- the line in protection of our community: Officer by 1929, the school had an industrial building, place employees’ overtime pay with vague Mauro, in October of 2016, when he was con- a library, and a gymnasium. By 1937, the promises that employees may be able to take fronted by an armed suspect in the University school had an enrollment of over 2,700. comp time off at some unknown point in the Hill neighborhood and Officer Francemone on The school continued to grow steadily to future. Father’s Day of 2016, when she approached a 3,761 students in 1946. Due to the large num- But the employer, not the employee, would fatal riot head on, only to be brutally attacked ber, the school became known as the ‘‘Largest decide when that time off is granted. by an angry crowd. High School for Negroes in the World.’’ This bill provides no guarantees that work- For their bravery, Officers Mauro and In 2004, acclaimed journalist Michele Norris, ers could take their earned time off when they Francemone were each nominated for the Na- host of All Things Considered with National need it. tional Association of Police Organizations TOP Public Radio, chronicled Parker’s story in Employers could also unilaterally decide to COP Award. Next week, Officer Francemone ‘‘Parker High: Integration’s Unfulfilled Prom- ‘‘cash out’’ comp time in excess of 80 hours will be honored as one of only a few nation- ise,’’ a look at the paradoxical effect integra- or discontinue their entire comp time program wide winners of this prestigious award. tion had on all-black schools such as Parker. with just 30 days’ notice. As a federal prosecutor, I worked alongside For Norris, the story is personal as her father This means that an employee’s carefully the brave men and women of the Syracuse and five uncles all attended Parker. crafted plan to bank time for a child’s birth or Police Department for nearly twenty years. I Parker’s current principal, Darrell Hudson, a spouse’s surgery could be thwarted by an have the utmost respect for these officers and assumed leadership of the school in 2013. employer’s decision to cash out the employ- their selfless actions. Principal Hudson is a veteran educator of the ee’s time or end the program all together. Congratulations to Officers Francemone and Birmingham and Montgomery, AL, public Mr. Speaker, this bill is a bad deal for work- Mauro, and I thank them for their commitment school systems, who truly believes all students ing families. It would strip employees of rights and dedication to making Syracuse a safer can learn through hard work, determination, that the FLSA has provided for nearly 75 place. and the right educational environment. He is a years. f graduate of Alabama State University and Au- If Republicans truly care about working fam- burn University of Montgomery. ilies, they would support and help pass the TRIBUTE TO A. H. PARKER HIGH Principal Hudson is a faithful member of Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act SCHOOL IN BIRMINGHAM, ALA- Sixth Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham, (FAMILY Act), H.R. 947, which would create a BAMA AL, and an active member with the Alabama national paid leave insurance program mod- State University National Alumni Association, eled after the successful programs in Cali- HON. TERRI A. SEWELL as well as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Prin- fornia, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. OF ALABAMA cipal Hudson was also recently appointed to If Republicans truly care about working fam- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Board of Directors for his Alma mater, Ala- ilies, they would support and help pass legisla- bama State University. tion like Schedules That Work Act introduced Thursday, May 4, 2017 Notable graduates of Parker include, among by Congresswoman ROSA DELAURO in the Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, others, jazz music legends Sun Ra and Er- 114th Congress. today I rise to pay tribute to an outstanding skine Hawkins; Nell Carter, Tony award-win- The Schedules That Work Act would give public high school in my district—the A.H. ning actress; Oscar Adams, Jr., the first Afri- workers more control over their schedules and Parker High School Thundering Herd in Bir- can American Alabama Supreme Court Jus- incentivize predictability and stability in shifts mingham, AL. Parker High School has been at tice; Arthur Shores, noted civil rights attorney; and work hours. the cornerstone of education in the Bir- Alma Johnson Powell, wife of former Sec- If Republicans truly care about working fam- mingham community for nearly 117 years, pre- retary of State Colin Powell; Eric Bledsoe, star ilies, they would support and help pass the paring students for future leadership and life. NBA player with the Phoenix Suns; and the soon to be introduced Raise the Wage Act During the school year of 1899, a few Negro current Mayor of Birmingham, William A. Bell. sponsored by Congressman BOBBY SCOTT. citizens of Birmingham called a historical mass On behalf of the 7th Congressional District, The Raise the Wage Act increases min- meeting to draw up a petition in which they the State of Alabama, and this nation, I ask imum wage, including the elimination of sub- would request the Board of Education estab- my colleagues to join me in recognizing this

∑ 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 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.001 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E604 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 4, 2017 outstanding educational institution and its 117- nito. He and his wife Nancy have lived in Abi- to Field Training Officer in 1989, and then to year commitment to public education. lene for more than forty years. When he is not Sheriff’s Corporal in 1992. In 1994, Mike was f representing Abilene as Mayor, Norm serves selected as Resident Deputy to Shelter Cove. as Vice President of the Hendrick Health Sys- Three years later, he was assigned as Sher- CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVER- tem in Abilene where he is responsible for the iff’s Sergeant to the Garberville station, and SARY OF THE LASALLE COUNTY development of the Health System through the was awarded the Outstation Deputy of the HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM Hendrick Medical Center Foundation. He holds Year in 2000. In 2003, Mike was promoted to a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from the rank of Sheriff’s Lieutenant in charge of HON. ADAM KINZINGER Texas A&M University, a master’s degree from North Area Command patrol operations. Abilene Christian University, and a doctorate Mike’s professional development has been OF ILLINOIS degree from Texas Tech University. Norm is stellar over the tenure of his service. He was IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the father of two beautiful children, Bryan and awarded every level of certification offered by Thursday, May 4, 2017 Betsy, and grandfather to four grandchildren, the CA Commission on Peace Officer’s Stand- Mr. KINZINGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Hunter, Hudson, Margaret, and Archer. During ards and Training (POST), including Inter- in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the his childhood years, Norm achieved the rank mediate, Advanced, Supervisory, Manage- LaSalle County Historical Society’s Museum in of Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in ment, and Executive Certificates, and grad- Utica, Illinois. The LaSalle County Historical the Boy Scouts of America. uated from POST Command College. On May Society was formed in 1907 and acquired their Even with his demanding professional ca- 7, 2006, Mike was promoted to Undersheriff first building, the 1848 Canal Warehouse in reer, Norm has always carved out time to under Sheriff Gary Philp. He was elected as 1967. Since then, the museum campus has serve his community, especially through his Sheriff of Humboldt County and took office on grown to a one-room school house, a Heritage work with the Abilene/Taylor County Health January 1, 2001. Center, a blacksmith shop, and a barn from Board, the United Way, the YMCA, the Boy Sheriff Downey has been a role model for 1875. Scouts of America Board, Junior Achievement, excellence in professionalism and community Their mission statement says ‘‘To search the Military Affairs Committee of the Abilene policing throughout his career. In addition to out, procure and preserve in permanent form, Chamber of Commerce, and the Abilene Met- his professional contributions, he has served facts and data in the history of the County of ropolitan Planning Organization. More re- the Humboldt County community through the LaSalle as related to persons, places and all cently, Norm has been serving our country Eureka Rotary Club, The Red Cross board of objects therein. In order to meet said purpose, through his membership on the EPA’s Local Directors, as the President of the Law En- the primary duty of the Society shall be to dis- Government Advisory Committee. forcement Chiefs Associations of Humboldt, cover, collect, and preserve any facts or relics Norm became Mayor of Abilene in 2004 and through the Board of Directors for the pertaining to the history of LaSalle County and after four years of serving on the Abilene City California State Sheriffs’ Association. to encourage the study of LaSalle County her- Council. He was re-elected in 2005, in 2008, Mr. Speaker, Sheriff Mike Downey’s commit- itage, its times and people.’’ in 2011, and again in 2014. Now, after seven- ment to the safety and peace of Humboldt teen years on the Abilene City Council and County is commendable and worthy of rec- The Museum spans the long and varied his- thirteen years as Mayor, Norm has chosen to ognition. I urge my colleagues to join me in tory of LaSalle County, including artifacts from step down to make way for new leadership. extending our congratulations to him. the Native Americans and earliest settlers of He has been a strong, effective, and pas- this region to the carriage that Abraham Lin- f sionate advocate for the values and interests coln used to travel to the famous Lincoln- that are important to Abilene and the Big IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. Douglas debate held in Ottawa, Illinois. Country. Mayor Archibald devoted his tenure MCCREADY’S 3RD GRADE CLASS The building itself, a nineteenth century to improving quality of life, long-term water re- warehouse situated along the historic I&M sources, Dyess Air Force Base, and local gov- Canal, served as a warehouse for the local HON. DAVID A. TROTT ernment. cement mill and a general store before be- OF MICHIGAN Mr. Speaker, the people of Abilene and the coming Utica’s first post office in 1849. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES people of our nation have been fortunate to LaSalle County Historical Society saved the Thursday, May 4, 2017 have a man like Norm dedicate so much of his historic warehouse from destruction and now time, talents, and energy to building a better Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to the region is one of the most popular Illinois and stronger city. I ask that my colleagues in recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. vacation destinations with 2.2 million annual the United States House of Representatives McCready’s 3rd grade class at Franklin Road visitors. join me in congratulating Norm as he com- Christian School in Novi, Michigan. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 16th Congres- pletes his successful tenure as Mayor of Abi- I know that artists get their start long before sional District, the citizens of LaSalle County, lene and in thanking Norm and his wife, high school and college, learning to expand and the millions who have enjoyed learning Nancy, for all their years of outstanding public their imagination and foster their creativity in about the history of LaSalle County at the Mu- service and exceptional contributions to the classrooms just like Mrs. McCready’s. seum, I sincerely congratulate them on achiev- city of Abilene and the Big Country. In an effort to highlight young artists from ing this milestone. The importance of pre- f across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, serving and appreciating our history cannot be this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color overlooked and the dedication of the LaSalle HONORING HUMBOLDT COUNTY my Capitol’’ Program. County Historical Society and all of their vol- SHERIFF MIKE DOWNEY Brimming with talent, Mrs. McCready’s stu- unteers is a key part of this time honored tra- dents were eager to showcase their amazing dition. I look forward to what they will accom- artistic skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind plish in the next fifty years. HON. JARED HUFFMAN OF CALIFORNIA program. f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. McCready’s 3rd graders did not disappoint. IN RECOGNITION OF NORM Thursday, May 4, 2017 Their creations are unique, innovative, and ARCHIBALD Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to imaginative. Their colorful artwork embodies congratulate Sheriff Mike Downey, a longtime our country’s bright and promising future with HON. JODEY C. ARRINGTON member of Humboldt County’s law enforce- these sharp young minds leading the way. OF TEXAS ment community, on his retirement. It is my utmost honor to have their artwork IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sheriff Downey’s service to Humboldt Coun- displayed in my Congressional district office in ty has been exemplary. Mike moved his family Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to Thursday, May 4, 2017 to Humboldt County and first became a deputy enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- Mr. ARRINGTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today sheriff in 1986. He was assigned to the Mari- fice, I am reminded of their talent. to recognize and honor Norm Archibald, juana Eradication Team in 1988, earning sev- Congratulations to Mrs. McCready and the Mayor of the City of Abilene, Texas, ‘‘The Key eral awards for service to the Campaign young artists she has the pleasure of teach- City.’’ Norm is a native Texan from San Be- Against Marijuana Planting. He was promoted ing.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MY8.002 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E605 RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALL- member of the American Institute of CPAs and Escrich and the Hemingway International EN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER ARMY the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs. He is the Yacht Club and look forward to fruitful co- SERGEANT (SGT) JOHN MCCLEL- former president and treasurer of the Rotary operation for many years to come. LAN SMITH Club of Kingston. He was also named a Paul f Harris Fellow of the Kingston Rotary Club. Ed also serves as the treasurer of the Exodus IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. DAILY’S HON. TRENT KELLY 3RD GRADE CLASS OF MISSISSIPPI Prison & Aftercare Ministry. He belongs to St. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Therese’s Parish in Shavertown, where he serves on the finance council and helps with HON. DAVID A. TROTT Thursday, May 4, 2017 the music ministry. OF MICHIGAN Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, It is an honor to recognize Ed Stanks, Jr. for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES today I rise in memory of Army Sergeant his service to the Wyoming Valley Children Thursday, May 4, 2017 (SGT) John McClellan Smith who paid the ulti- Association, an outstanding organization help- Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mate sacrifice while defending our great nation ing to provide the therapeutic support needed recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. Dai- on May 12, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Free- to give all of the children in northeastern ly’s 3rd grade class at Garfield Elementary in dom. SGT Smith was killed when an impro- Pennsylvania a quality early childhood edu- Livonia, Michigan. vised explosive device detonated near his cation. I am truly grateful for his efforts. I know that artists get their start long before convoy in Iskandariyah, Iraq. During his tour in f high school and college, learning to expand Iraq, SGT Smith’s assignment was to train their imagination and foster their creativity in members of the Iraqi National Guard. HONORING THE 25TH ANNIVER- SARY OF THE HEMINGWAY classrooms just like Mrs. Daily’s. SGT Smith was assigned to the 2nd Squad- In an effort to highlight young artists from INTERNATIONAL YACHT CLUB, ron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, HAVANA, CUBA Irwin, California, which was attached to the this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color 155th BCT of Mississippi. He was a member my Capitol’’ Program. of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg HON. CHELLIE PINGREE Brimming with talent, Mrs. Daily’s students before joining the California unit. SGT Smith OF MAINE were eager to showcase their amazing artistic was a JROTC cadet at New Hanover High IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind pro- School in Wilmington, North Carolina where Thursday, May 4, 2017 gram. he also played football, baseball, and lacrosse Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Daily’s before graduating in 2000. Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, the Ocean 3rd graders did not disappoint. Their creations During SGT Smith’s funeral, Brigadier Gen- Passages maritime educational program and are unique, innovative, and imaginative. Their eral Mike Ferriter of the 82nd Airborne Divi- the state of Maine, home port of the schooner colorful artwork embodies our country’s bright sion presented Smith’s mother, Judy Smith, Harvey Gamage, would like to congratulate and promising future with these sharp young with the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Commodore Lic. Jose´ Miguel Diaz Escrich minds leading the way. Iraqi Campaign Medal, and the Global War on and the Hemingway International Yacht Club It is my utmost honor to have their artwork Terrorism Expeditionary Medal. of Havana, Cuba, on the occasion of its 25th displayed in my Congressional district office in Sergeant First Class Richard Mitchell of the Anniversary, being celebrated this month. Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to 82nd Airborne Division presented Mrs. Smith For 25 years, the Hemingway International enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- with the American flag. He told the Associated Yacht Club has welcomed scores of inter- fice, I am reminded of their talent. Press that SGT Smith was committed to serv- national visitors from around the world—and Congratulations to Mrs. Daily and the young ing his country. consistently promoted stronger ties between artists she has the pleasure of teaching. ‘‘Smitty was a great soldier,’’ SFC Mitchell Cuba and the United States through coopera- f said. ‘‘He died doing what he wanted to do.’’ tive sailing and maritime programs. SGT Smith’s devotion to his nation will not Drawing on the long history of shared CELEBRATING CHARLOTTE be forgotten. Cuban-American nautical traditions, symbol- ZIMMERMAN’S 90TH BIRTHDAY f ized above all by Ernest Hemingway’s love of the sea and his adoption of Cuba as his sec- HON. LOIS FRANKEL IN RECOGNITION OF EDWARD W. ond country, the Hemingway International OF FLORIDA STANKS, RECIPIENT OF THE 2017 Yacht Club has sought to keep alive the im- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WYOMING VALLEY CHILDREN’S portance of Cuba’s rich marine heritage. Thursday, May 4, 2017 ASSOCIATION ‘‘MAKING A DIF- The schooner Harvey Gamage first sailed FERENCE’’ AWARD Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I into Marina Hemingway in Havana in Feburary rise today to celebrate Charlotte Zimmerman, 2016—and members of the Ocean Passages who turned 90 years young today. Charlotte is HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT program have worked closely with Com- an active member of Hadassah in South Flor- OF PENNSYLVANIA modore Escrich in promoting the participation ida and a beloved mother of four, grandmother IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of American sport fishing boats in the annual of six, and great-grandmother of four. Thursday, May 4, 2017 Hemingway International Billfishing Tour- Throughout her life Charlotte is an example nament. to us all, staying healthy and aging with grace. Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise As Ocean Passages grows its educational today to honor Edward W. Stanks, Jr., CPA She is a patron of the arts, including ballet, and training programs in Cuban waters, we drama, music, and opera. She grew up in who will be honored on May 13 by the Wyo- look forward to deepening that cooperation ming Valley Children’s Association. Ed will re- Richmond Hill, New York and now lives in across the ocean we share. As the Maine poet Boca Raton, Florida. ceive the 2017 ‘‘Making a Difference Award’’ Richard Blanco wrote in Cosas del Mar on the for his continued involvement in the Children’s I join with Charlotte’s friends and family in occasion of the restoration of bilateral diplo- celebrating her birthday. I wish her good Association. Ed has served on the WVCA matic relations: board as treasurer for over fifteen years. He health and continued success in the coming . . . Today, the sea still telling us, year. has shared his knowledge, expertise, and the end to all our doubts and fears f countless hours of his time to help the children is to gaze into the lucid blues of our shared of northeastern Pennsylvania. horizon, HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY Ed has worked as a Certified Public Ac- to breathe together, to heal together. OF FIRE CHIEF KEVIN D. SUTTON countant for nearly four decades for compa- Ernest Hemingway donated his 1954 Nobel nies like Coopers and Lybrand (now Price Literature prize medal to the people of Cuba, HON. TERRI A. SEWELL Waterhouse Coopers/PwC) and Baron, saying ‘‘this award belongs to the people of OF ALABAMA Strassmen & Co. (now Kronick, Kalada, Cuba, because my works were created and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Berdy, & Co., P.C.). Today, Ed owns and op- conceived in Cuba, in my village of Cojimar, of erates his own accounting office in Kingston, which I am a citizen.’’ Thursday, May 4, 2017 Pennsylvania. In addition to serving the Wyo- It is in that spirit that Ocean Passages and Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, ming Valley Children’s Association, Ed is a the state of Maine congratulate Commodore today I rise to honor the life and legacy of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.003 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E606 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 4, 2017 Fairfield, AL, Fire Chief Kevin D. Sutton. Chief tion. To that end, my colleagues and I have in- ‘‘Casey had a servant’s heart,’’ Paula said. Sutton was a native of Birmingham, AL, who troduced a bi-partisan resolution expressing ‘‘She wanted to serve, and the military allowed tragically passed in an auto accident on April support for the people of Ethiopia and asking her to do that.’’ 30, 2017. His seasoned leadership, engaging the Ethiopian government to take solid steps Paula says her daughter’s death was a trag- personality, and heart for his community will to address these many violations. edy, but triumph rose out of tragedy during a certainly be missed. On March 9th, the House Foreign Relations memorial service attended by more than 1,000 Chief Sutton attended Birmingham public Subcommittee held hearings to discuss this people. The service was held at New Heights schools and was a 1981 graduate of Phillips important issue and what the United States Baptist Church in McComb. High School. Upon graduation, he pursued can do to bring about positive change in Ethi- ‘‘It became so huge and overwhelming,’’ higher education at Mississippi Valley State opia. Among those who testified is a man from Paula said. ‘‘My community was and still is so University on an academic and football schol- my own district, Deacon Yoseph Tafari of the amazing.’’ arship. Chief Sutton would later receive a St. Mary’s Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo This summer, a portion of Highway 98 in Bachelor of Science degree in Public Safety Church located in Aurora, Colorado, who grew Pike County will be named in LCpl Casa- Administration from Athens State University. up in Ethiopia and has seen first-hand the nova’s honor. Chief Sutton served with the City of Fair- daily struggle of those living in abject poverty LCpl Casanova is survived by her mother, field, AL, for 23 years, the previous 13 years and under government oppression. Deacon Paula Carruth, and grandparents, John Paul as Fire Chief. Prior to serving as Fire Chief, Yoseph was forced to flee Ethiopia in 1976 and Kitty Carruth. he served the city as a firefighter then as the and came to the U.S. as a refugee. Since LCpl Casanova devoted her life to military city’s Fire Marshal. Under his leadership, Fair- then, both he and all of the courageous mem- service. Her determination to serve will not be field Fire Department became an integral part- bers of the Ethiopian community in my district, forgotten. ner with the Fairfield community. Chief Sutton including the Oromo and Amharas, have f coordinated several programs in the city for worked tirelessly to organize and help those seniors and children, including the annual still suffering from repression in their home IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. ‘‘Safety is Fun Day,’’ which involves all city country, and to bring crucial international ROLLINS’S 3RD GRADE CLASS and private elementary schools in Fairfield. awareness to their plight. Chief Sutton also led the department’s involve- Every day, Ethiopian-Americans bring im- HON. DAVID A. TROTT ment in charitable works such as the Muscular portant contributions and valuable diversity not OF MICHIGAN Dystrophy Association’s ‘‘Boot Drive,’’ which only to my district, but all across America. I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES collects money for Jerry’s Kids. want to make clear that we support them and Thursday, May 4, 2017 Previously, Chief Sutton served on the Ex- stand by them in these times of hardship. I ecutive Committee of the State Fire Marshal’s represent the largest Ethiopian community in Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Association and was the past President of the Colorado, and I will continue to monitor the sit- recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. Central Alabama Fire Chief’s Association. He uation in Ethiopia closely as well as continue Rollins’s 3rd grade class at Garfield Elemen- also served on the Executive Committee of working with local community leaders to raise tary in Livonia, Michigan. the Alabama Fire Chief’s Association, and was awareness of this important issue and bring I know that artists get their start long before the immediate past president of the Board of relief to the Ethiopian people. high school and college, learning to expand Directors for Better Basics, a nonprofit that f their imagination and foster their creativity in provides literacy intervention, enrichment pro- classrooms just like Mrs. Rollins’s. grams, and educational opportunities for ele- RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALL- In an effort to highlight young artists from mentary and middle-school students through- EN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER MA- across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, out Alabama. Chief Sutton was also a proud RINE LANCE CORPORAL (LCPL) this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. CASEY LYNNE CASANOVA my Capitol’’ Program. Chief Sutton is survived by his wife, Phyllis, Brimming with talent, Mrs. Rollins’s students and daughters, Tabathia Norman, Karmen HON. TRENT KELLY were eager to showcase their amazing artistic Patterson, and Taylor Sutton. OF MISSISSIPPI skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind pro- On a personal note, I will also remember IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gram. Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Rollins’s Chief Sutton’s warm smile, generous heart Thursday, May 4, 2017 and servant leadership. Although he left us too 3rd graders did not disappoint. Their creations soon, his family should find comfort in the ex- Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, are unique, innovative, and imaginative. Their emplary life he led. Chief Sutton made a tre- today I rise in memory of Marine Lance Cor- colorful artwork embodies our country’s bright mendous impact on our community that will poral (LCpl) Casey Lynne Casanova who paid and promising future with these sharp young have a lasting significance. Chief Sutton will the ultimate sacrifice while defending our great minds leading the way. live on in the hearts and minds of the many nation on May 2, 2008, during Operation Iraqi It is my utmost honor to have their artwork people he touched. Freedom. LCpl Casanova was killed along displayed in my Congressional District office in On behalf of the 7th Congressional District, with three other Marines when a roadside Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to the State of Alabama, and this nation, I ask bomb was detonated while they were on patrol enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- my colleagues to join me in recognizing Fire in Karmah, Iraq. Also killed were Sergeant fice, I am reminded of their talent. Chief Kevin D. Sutton—an outstanding servant Glen E. Martinez of Boulder, Colorado; Cor- Congratulations to Mrs. Rollins and the leader who faithfully served the Fairfield, AL poral James Kimple of Amanda, Ohio; and young artists she has the pleasure of teach- community. Corporal Miguel A. Guzman of Norwalk, Cali- ing. f fornia. f LCpl Casanova was assigned to the Com- SUPPORT FOR THE PEOPLE OF bat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF ETHIOPIA Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Ma- JOSEPH S. MILLER rine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, HON. MIKE COFFMAN California. LCpl Casanova served as a field HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO OF COLORADO radio operator. This was her first deployment OF OREGON IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to Iraq. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES LCpl Casanova grew up in McComb, Mis- Thursday, May 4, 2017 sissippi, where she sang in the chorus at Bass Thursday, May 4, 2017 Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Memorial Academy in Purvis and played mul- Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to com- call attention to the continued and troubling tiple musical instruments in the high school memorate the passing of a Capitol Hill icon, pattern of repression committed by the Gov- band. Joseph S. Miller, described by The Oregonian ernment of Ethiopia against its own citizens, LCpl Casanova’s mother, Paula Carruth, in 1987 as the dean of lobbyists in the nation’s and to express our support to the people of shared that Casey decided to enlist in the U.S. capital who specialized in Pacific Northwest that country in their efforts to bring about Marine Corps while she was attending South- issues. Joe was a seminal figure in Northwest peaceful reform to ensure their basic human west Community College in Summit, Mis- politics and became well-known in Wash- rights as guaranteed by the Ethiopian constitu- sissippi. ington, D.C. His career spanned over 70

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MY8.003 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E607 years, and he earned a reputation for having OPPOSITION OF TRUMPCARE’S Wisconsin, and his more than five decades of great political insight and courage. HIGHER COSTS, LESS COVERAGE, service to the people of Northeast Wisconsin. Joe was a respected journalist and came AND FEWER PROTECTIONS When he graduated from at the University of from the infamous Class of 1943 at the Uni- the Witwatersrand in South Africa, he couldn’t versity of Oregon, which included Les Ander- HON. TERRI A. SEWELL have known how far his journey as a physi- son, Jeff Kitchens, Aaron U. Jones, and Bill OF ALABAMA cian would take him or how many thousands Roth, Jr. After serving in the Army in the Aleu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of lives he would touch. From Johannesburg, Dr. Green began his remarkable personal and tian Islands during World War II, he wrote for Thursday, May 4, 2017 Northwest newspapers. He covered drama, lit- professional journey by heading to post- erature, labor, politics, sports, and music. One Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, the graduate work in Belfast and London, then at weekend, he covered a heavyweight fight, a GOP healthcare bill today marks a dis- Boston City Hospital, Jersey City Medical Cen- college football game, and the Seattle Sym- appointing abdication of now more than 50 ter, Cincinnati General Hospital and in the City phony. The next day he ran into the president years of work to invest in the health care of of Melbourne, Australia. of the symphony, who said, ‘‘Joe, last night I our citizens. The bill strips coverage from at But it was when he reached Green Bay in thought I went to a symphony concert, but least 24 million Americans. WHAT A SHAME. 1964 that he knew he had found his real This GOP bill is being rushed to passage when I read your review this morning I knew home. He and his wife, Elizabeth, a British without an updated CBO score. My Repub- I’d been to a title fight instead.’’ Gradually, pol- nurse, raised their family in Green Bay and lican colleagues should be ashamed of them- itics and labor issues became Joe’s focus. then joined them as American citizens in selves for playing such silly, political games In 1958, Joe moved his wife Rosalie Daggy 1995. with the health of the American people and 1/ Miller and their two daughters from Seattle to Over the years, he helped launch the Green 6th of the American economy. Washington, D.C., to become the executive di- Bay Area Free Clinic, UW-Green Bay’s stu- In my home state of Alabama, this GOP bill dent health services and health services for rector of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign will exacerbate the cost of uncompensated Committee. He helped elect many Democratic the university’s athletic teams. care, which already exceeds $694 million an- Beyond his medical service, his contribu- senators, including Senators Ed Muskie, Gay- nually in Alabama. Alabama’s hospitals collec- tions to community organizations in Northeast lord Nelson, Bill Proxmire, and Frank Church. tively would see an increase of more than $97 Wisconsin are simply too many to recount Later he advised the presidential election of million (at least) in uncompensated care costs here. John F. Kennedy. The Washington Post once due to the coverage losses in this bill. Dr. Green has been honored by groups called him the Democrats’ answer to Madison This GOP bill will gut Medicaid, which is the ranging from the Northeastern Wisconsin Afri- Avenue. Senator Dick Neuberger said of Joe single largest insurer for children in America. can-American Association to the State Medical that he ‘‘would never base a campaign on per- It is a lifeline for disabled and nursing home Society of Wisconsin, from the Neville Public sonal malice or an appeal to a hate element. patients across my district and across this Museum to Scholarships, Inc. In 1987, he re- His politics are never bitter.’’ country yet this GOP bill slashes Medicaid by ceived the Chancellor’s Award for Lifetime Joe had an almost encyclopedic memory for more than $800 billion. Service from UW-Green Bay and in 2000, he details and always told it like it was. These tal- This GOP bill will be devastating to Amer- received the NFL Community Quarterback ents usually served him well as he rep- ica’s hospitals. Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Award from the Green Bay Packers. resented clients such as the Marine Engineers for example, is projected to lose $752 million In coming days, Dr. Green will step down Beneficial Association, United Steelworkers of in Medicaid revenues through 2026 under this from active practice in Green Bay. However, America, American Association of Railroads, bill. In 2018, the hospital would lose $1.4 mil- just as he always has, he will continue to Port of Portland, Western Forest Industries lion in uncompensated care costs. I am hon- serve his community and pursue his many in- Association, and Association of Oregon and ored to represent UAB here in Congress, terests. We would expect nothing less from California Land Grant Counties. which is Alabama’s largest employer and is that young South African physician who some- A life-long Democrat, Joe had great friend- set to lose $613 million in Medicaid revenues. how found his way to Northeast Wisconsin, ships and professional relationships with many Bad debt would increase by 90 million a year raising a proud family and lifting the lives of Republicans. As he once said, ‘‘We would for the hospital. The CEO of UAB health, Dr. countless Americans along the way. hash out issues all day long, but when 5 Will Ferniany, says the bill is ‘‘bad for Ala- f o’clock came, we were all on the same side.’’ bama, bad for older people, bad for Alabama Joe and his second wife, Erna Wahl Miller, hospitals, and bad for the poor.’’ CELEBRATING FRED RISSER’S personal secretary to Senator Henry ‘‘Scoop’’ The good, hard-working people of America 90TH BIRTHDAY Jackson, were valued friends and hosts to have much to lose under this GOP bill. many in their home on Capitol Hill until Erna’s Our rural hospitals can absolutely NOT af- HON. F. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR. death in 2004. ford these cuts as this GOP bill will only wors- OF WISCONSIN In 2008, Joe’s memoir, The Wicked Wine of en the rural hospital closure crisis. Almost 80 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Democracy, was published by the University percent of rural hospital closures since 2010 Thursday, May 4, 2017 of Washington Press. The book is a candid have occurred in states that haven’t expanded Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Mr. Speaker, today Medicaid under the ACA. As Representative of look at politics from the 1950s onward. Joe I rise along with my colleague, Rep. GWEN a state with one of the most bare-bones Med- wanted to call his memoir When Politics Was MOORE, to celebrate the 90th Birthday of Wis- Fun, but the UW Press, publishing the book icaid programs in the country, I know full well consin State Senator Fred Risser on May 5, as a potential political-science text, had other that capping and cutting Medicaid is not the 2017. Born in Madison, Wisconsin in 1927, ideas. direction we want to go in. Mr. Risser was elected to Wisconsin’s Assem- Our sacred responsibility to make strategic For over 40 years, Joe met for lunch every bly in 1956 and the Senate in 1962. He is cur- investments in the health of every American Friday at the Irish Times on Capitol Hill with a rently the nation’s longest-serving state legis- has the stark and immediate urgency of right drop-in group of old and new friends. He re- lator, and shows no sign of slowing down any- and wrong. spected ‘‘the wit and wisdom of his Friday time soon. I urge my colleagues to vote against this lunch gang,’’ which represented a wide range Born and raised in Madison, Senator Risser harmful GOP bill, which will result in higher of political thought. Joe’s ability to listen to is the fourth generation of his family to serve costs, less coverage, and fewer protections. other points of view and to find common in the Wisconsin Legislature. His father, Fred ground kept his voice relevant and in demand f E. Risser, grandfather, Ernest Warner, and throughout his life. IN RECOGNITION OF THE RETIRE- great-grandfather Clement Warner, were all Joe was a great believer in the ‘‘American MENT OF DR. JEREMY GREEN dedicated public servants. Political Way’’ and said, ‘‘We have overcome Mr. Risser joined the Navy just prior to his many challenges over two centuries and have HON. MIKE GALLAGHER 18th birthday. Trained as a medic, Mr. Risser always emerged a stronger and more demo- spent time in Newport, R.I., then in Panama OF WISCONSIN cratic nation as a result.’’ before he returned to the United States. Mr. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thanks to Joe Miller for his dedication and Risser was educated in the Madison public contributions to the political process. His posi- Thursday, May 4, 2017 schools, and then used the GI Bill to attend tive outlook and ability to adapt to changing Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise Carleton College and the University of Wis- times, even in his 90s, will be missed. in honor of Dr. Jeremy Green of Green Bay, consin-Madison (where he earned a B.A.), and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.011 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E608 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 4, 2017 the law school of the University of Oregon. He municating with and representing all walks of tle; his siblings, Otis Roosevelt Little, Louise then practiced law with his father before enter- Georgians, a trait that only shined more as Murray, Alfred Little, Eddie Lee Little, Idella ing public service. Dawson began his political career. Little, Lillie Hutton, Jack Little, Ruth Hender- Wisconsin is fortunate to have a great lead- From 1971 until 1981, Dawson served as son, Eddie Dean Little, and Bessie Hinton. er like Fred Risser. Throughout his extraor- the Representative for Georgia’s Second Con- The National Guard Armory in Ackerman, dinary career, he has served his constituents gressional District. During his time in Con- Mississippi was named in honor of SSG Little. and his community diligently. It is our great gress, Dawson was known as a witty southern His sacrifice will always be remembered. honor to join Fred’s wife Nancy, children and Democrat who could work cordially with Mem- f grandchildren, his many friends, and our col- bers on both sides of the aisle. As a legislator, leagues in the House of Representatives, in Dawson was a gifted politician, but always a RECOGNIZING MARY AND DAVID wishing Fred a happy 90th birthday—and true statesman. Despite his success in work- BOIES many more years. ing in the highest levels of government, Daw- f son never grew too proud to forget who he HON. NITA M. LOWEY was. He was always known to be open and OF NEW YORK IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. KUHN’S accessible, willing to talk to local reporters and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 3RD GRADE CLASS constituents for hours on end. Amidst the Thursday, May 4, 2017 hustle and bustle of Capitol Hill, Dawson HON. DAVID A. TROTT never lost sight of advocating for the best in- Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recog- OF MICHIGAN terests of the Georgians he represented, and nize Mary and David Boies, who will be hon- ored by United Way of Westchester and Put- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the legacy he left still benefits the people of Southwest Georgia today. nam with the Spirit of Caring Award for their Thursday, May 4, 2017 Dawson was one of a kind, and his decade leadership, commitment to community, and Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to of public service greatly benefitted our state. willingness to help others. recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. Our thoughts are with his family and friends Mary Boies has had a successful career in Kuhn’s 3rd grade class at Hickory Woods Ele- during this time as they remember the great law and currently serves as Counsel to Boies, mentary in Novi, Michigan. man he was. Schiller & Flexner LLP, where she specializes I know that artists get their start long before f in antitrust and corporate commercial litigation. high school and college, learning to expand Her prior positions include General Counsel of their imagination and foster their creativity in RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALL- the U.S. Civil Aeronautics Board, Assistant Di- classrooms just like Mrs. Kuhn’s. EN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER ARMY rector of the Domestic Policy Staff at the In an effort to highlight young artists from STAFF SERGEANT (SSG) TOMMY White House, and Counsel to the U.S. Senate across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, SEARY LITTLE Commerce Committee. Ms. Boies was also a this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color member of a non-partisan, professional Com- my Capitol’’ Program. HON. TRENT KELLY mittee that reviewed federal judicial nominees. Brimming with talent, Mrs. Kuhn’s students OF MISSISSIPPI In each of these roles, she has always sought were eager to showcase their amazing artistic IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to do what is right and best for others. skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind pro- Thursday, May 4, 2017 Outside of her work in law, she has also worked to support children’s educational soft- gram. Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, ware. She was the founder of MaryBoies Soft- Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Kuhn’s today I rise in memory of Army Staff Sergeant ware Inc., which developed Top of the Key 3rd graders did not disappoint. Their creations (SSG) Tommy Seary Little who paid the ulti- and Slam Dunk Typing. Both programs were are unique, innovative, and imaginative. Their mate sacrifice while defending our nation on recognized as some of the top pieces of chil- colorful artwork embodies our country’s bright May 2, 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom. dren’s educational software and have been and promising future with these sharp young SSG Little died at the Brooke Army Medical translated into numerous languages for inter- minds leading the way. Center in San Antonio, Texas from injuries national distribution. Additionally, she has It is my utmost honor to have their artwork sustained on April 19 when an improvised ex- served on the Board of Directors of the Coun- displayed in my Congressional district office in plosive device detonated near his Humvee cil on Foreign Relations, the Board of Massa- Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to outside Iskandariyah, Iraq. Sergeant Terrance chusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- A. Elizenberry of Clinton, Sergeant Wyman H. International Studies, as well as the Board of fice, I am reminded of their talent. Jones of Columbus, Private First Class Ste- Visitors that oversees the U.S. Air Force Congratulations to Mrs. Kuhn and the young phen B. Brooks of Columbus, and Sergeant School of Advanced Air and Space Studies, artists she has the pleasure of teaching. First Class Grayson ‘‘Norris’’ Galatas of Merid- the Air Force Research Institute, the Air War f ian were also injured in the explosion. SSG Little, an Aliceville, Alabama native College, the National Security Space Institute, CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF and the Air Force Institute of Technology. CONGRESSMAN DAWSON MATHIS and the youngest of 11 children, was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 114th Field Artillery Regi- Mr. Boies has also had a distinguished legal ment, Mississippi Army National Guard, Co- career with recognition from many including as HON. AUSTIN SCOTT lumbus, Mississippi. SSG Little joined the Mis- one of the ‘‘100 Most Influential People in the OF GEORGIA sissippi Army National Guard after he grad- World’’ by Time Magazine. Currently Chairman IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES uated Aliceville High School. of Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP, he previously served as Chief Counsel and Staff Director of Thursday, May 4, 2017 According to an Associated Press news arti- cle, Major General Harold A. Cross, Adjutant the United States Senate Antitrust Sub- Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speak- General of the Mississippi Army National committee and held similar roles on the Sen- er, I rise today with my colleagues, Senator Guard, said members of the Guard would ate Judiciary Committee. He was Special Trial JOHNNY ISAKSON, Congressman SANFORD mourn the loss of this brave soldier. Mis- Counsel for the United States Department of BISHOP, Congressman BARRY LOUDERMILK, sissippi Governor Haley Barbour said his fam- Justice in its antitrust suit against Microsoft Congressman RICK ALLEN, and Congressman ily was deeply saddened by another death of and lead counsel for Vice President Al Gore in TOM GRAVES, to remember the life of former a member of the Guard serving in Iraq. litigation following the 2000 Presidential Elec- Georgia Congressman Dawson Mathis, who SSG Little’s brother, Jack Little says his tion. Mr. Boies served as co-lead counsel for passed away on April 17, 2017. Today, we brother was liked by all. plaintiffs in Perry v. Brown, which established honor Dawson’s life, remember his spirit, and ‘‘He was easy to get along with,’’ Jack said. for the first time the federal constitutional right thank him and his family for their meaningful ‘‘If he could help, Tommy always would. He for gay and lesbian citizens to marry. contributions to the state of Georgia. loved the Army.’’ Mr. Boies is a member of Phi Beta Kappa; Born in Nashville, Georgia, Dawson Mathis SSG Little’s sister, Ruth Henderson, said a Fellow of the American College Trial Law- attended South Georgia College before he her brother was dedicated to the Army. yers and the International Academy of Trial moved to Albany, Georgia in 1964 to work at ‘‘He was a hard worker,’’ Ruth said. ‘‘He Lawyers; and a Trustee of Cold Spring Harbor WALB–TV, where he served as the network’s was also a great father.’’ Laboratory, New York University Law School news director until 1970. Even at a young age, SSG Little is survived by his wife, Patricia; Foundation, and St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital it was clear that Dawson had a knack for com- his daughter, Ashley; his mother Lue Della Lit- Center.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.014 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E609 Mr. Speaker, in addition to their truly re- of Oregon, Ms. Eveland spent 17 years at Mr. Toyoda during the grand opening of the markable careers in law, Mary and David Iowa State University, serving in various roles Toyota Supplier Center and Prototype Devel- Boies have also contributed their time, talents, in the Offices of Admissions and the Registrar. opment Facility expansion. This critical invest- and financially in service of others. I commend Colleagues report that Ms. Eveland has ment will leverage Michigan’s talented work- their outstanding work, and I urge my col- shown herself to be innovative and effective, force to conduct cutting-edge automotive re- leagues to join me in congratulating them on bringing opportunities for staff development, search and development. the Spirit of Caring Award. growth and collaboration into each of her f f roles. Alongside her team at the UO, she was able to implement online grading, online RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVER- IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. course evaluations, an online graduation appli- SARY OF HOLY CROSS LU- WECKSTEIN’S 3RD GRADE CLASS cation and a schedule builder, among other ef- THERAN CHURCH ficiencies. Her work has continually simplified HON. DAVID A. TROTT and improved the lives of the students she HON. JASON SMITH OF MICHIGAN serves. Her colleagues say she encourages OF MISSOURI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES her staff to keep perspective, remain positive, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES be creative and have fun. Thursday, May 4, 2017 Thursday, May 4, 2017 Sue Eveland retires from the University of Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Oregon having dedicated nearly two decades Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. to improving services for students. I join with today to honor Holy Cross Lutheran Church of Weckstein’s 3rd grade class at Hickory Woods the University of Oregon in recognizing Sue Ste. Genevieve, Missouri on the occasion of Elementary in Novi, Michigan. Eveland for her contributions to higher edu- its 150th Anniversary. I know that artists get their start long before cation, and I congratulate her for her many The congregation was founded in 1867 and high school and college, learning to expand years of exemplary service. work began that year on its church building their imagination and foster their creativity in f which was completed in 1869. In celebrating classrooms just like Mrs. Weckstein’s. its momentous anniversary, the congregation In an effort to highlight young artists from IN RECOGNITION OF TOYOTA is highlighting three words: Survival, Revival across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, MOTOR NORTH AMERICA ON THE and Vital. They want to emphasize all the this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color DATE OF ITS SUPPLIER CENTER church at 200 Market Street has overcome to my Capitol’’ Program. GRAND OPENING survive this century and a half, to commit to Brimming with talent, Mrs. Weckstein’s stu- reviving the congregation’s presence in Ste. dents were eager to showcase their amazing HON. DEBBIE DINGELL Genevieve and to celebrate how vital the artistic skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind OF MICHIGAN church and the message of Jesus Christ re- program. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mains. Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Known for its historic altar donated to the Thursday, May 4, 2017 Weckstein’s 3rd graders did not disappoint. church in 1950, the congregation now aver- Their creations are unique, innovative, and Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ages about 50 people in its worship services. imaginative. Their colorful artwork embodies recognize Toyota Motor North America on the They remain dedicated to proclaiming the our country’s bright and promising future with date of the Toyota Supplier Center and Proto- Gospel message and reaching out to the peo- these sharp young minds leading the way. type Development Facility grand opening. Toy- ple of Ste. Genevieve. It is my utmost honor to have their artwork ota Motor North America has been a strong For continuing its work of proclaiming the displayed in my Congressional district office in partner to southeast Michigan by utilizing our Good News of Jesus Christ through 150 years Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to state’s automotive expertise to help produce of change and challenge, it is my great pleas- enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- its next generation of automobiles. ure to honor Holy Cross Lutheran Church of fice, I am reminded of their talent. Originally established in July 1977, Toyota Ste. Genevieve, Missouri today before the Congratulations to Mrs. Weckstein and the Motor North America’s Research and Develop- United States House of Representatives. young artists she has the pleasure of teach- ment has contributed significantly to the lead- f ing. ership of southeast Michigan as a leader in HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY f automotive engineering, driving important breakthroughs in automotive design and safe- OF MS. DEBORAH COTTON IN RECOGNITION OF UNIVERSITY ty. Toyota employs approximately 1,440 indi- OF OREGON ASSISTANT VICE viduals in its Ann Arbor and York Township fa- HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND PRESIDENT AND UNIVERSITY cilities whose work has critical input to many OF LOUISIANA REGISTRAR SUE EVELAND of Toyota’s most popular vehicles. These fa- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cilities collectively have contributed to the ve- HON. PETER A. DeFAZIO hicle development of many of Toyota’s most Thursday, May 4, 2017 OF OREGON popular vehicles, including the 2014 Tundra Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and 2015 Camry designs, and its advanced to honor the life of Ms. Deborah Cotton, a research and prototype development efforts New Orleans writer and cultural advocate. Ms. Thursday, May 4, 2017 continue to serve as a critical source of inno- Cotton, affectionately known as ‘‘Big Red Cot- Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to vation for the company at large. ton,’’ passed away on May 2, 2017, at the age recognize University of Oregon Assistant Vice Toyota Motor North America’s significant in- of 52. President and University Registrar Sue vestment in expanding and upgrading its Ann Ms. Cotton was raised in Texas and Okla- Eveland who is retiring after fourteen years of Arbor and York Township engineering facilities homa. She attended San Francisco State Uni- service to the university. underscores the importance of the versity, majoring in the field of African-Amer- Ms. Eveland has been an invaluable mem- groundbreaking research and development ican studies, before moving to Los Angeles, ber of the UO community since she was first being done here. The expansion of the where she worked as a union organizer. hired in 2001 and subsequently with her ap- powertrain development facility in Ann Arbor In June 2005, not long before Hurricane pointment as the Interim University Registrar Township, as well as further improvements to Katrina struck, Ms. Cotton moved to New Or- in 2008 and later University Registrar. the York Township site, will allow a continu- leans, Louisiana. She instantly immersed her- During this time, Ms. Eveland also served ation of the successful partnership between self in the city’s culture and communities. Ms. as President of both the Pacific Association of Toyota and the State of Michigan. The tal- Cotton became known for her writing about Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers ented and educated southeast Michigan work- second-lines, brass bands, Mardi Gras Indian (PACRAO) and the Oregon Association of force, combined with Toyota’s new facilities practices and many other events in New Orle- Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers and additional resources, will help ensure that ans. She blogged, tweeted, and filmed nearly (OrACRAO), demonstrating her commitment Michigan’s automotive industry remains a every Sunday second-line parade. Though Ms. not only to University of Oregon faculty, stu- worldwide leader in the coming decades. Cotton was not from New Orleans, her writing dents and staff, but also to her colleagues na- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me helped her to forge better relationships among tionwide. Prior to her career at the University in honoring Toyota Motor North America and the city, police, and the parading clubs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.018 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E610 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 4, 2017 On May 12, 2013, when shooting broke out RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALL- and participating. We were working in District in the 7th Ward during the annual parade of EN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER ARMY 10 where Mr. Joseph Rosen was Super- the Original Big 7 Social Aid and Pleasure SERGEANT (SGT) JOSHUA SHANE intendent of schools and Mrs. Ida Mae (MA) Club, Ms. Cotton was filming. Of the 19 peo- LADD Fletcher was the leading school activist. As ple shot that day, Ms. Cotton was among time went on, I left the teaching profession but continued to run into Ms. Life at meetings and those wounded, suffering grave internal inju- HON. TRENT KELLY church activities. When it came to teaching, ries that would ultimately take her life. OF MISSISSIPPI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES none were better, as an Assistant Principal Ms. Cotton loved the city and the people of she was creative, encouraging and imagina- New Orleans enough that, even when the Thursday, May 4, 2017 tive. When you walked into the Roswell B. worst happened to her, she responded with Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Mason Elementary School, you knew that compassion and inspired others to do the today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi teachers were teaching and students were same. She dedicated herself to continuing to soldier Army Sergeant (SGT) Joshua Shane learning. live life with joy and compassion. She forgave Ladd who paid the ultimate sacrifice while de- Thirty-eight years is a long time to teach fending our nation on May 1, 2004, during Op- and educate, but a lifetime of service to hu- the individual who shot her and spent time eration Iraqi Freedom. SGT Ladd, a Mis- manity through church, the Peoples Church of getting to know him as a person. She also sissippi Army National Guard soldier, was the Harvest Church of God in Christ and the dedicated herself to providing a clear-eyed killed when a rocket-propelled grenade struck Peoples Community Development Association look at the problem of violence in our commu- his vehicle outside of Mosul, Iraq. of Chicago Inc. and other organizations. nities. SGT Ladd, a Port Gibson native, was as- I can almost hear the Master speaking to Ms. Cotton’s legacy will forever be a part of signed to the 367th Maintenance Company, her, well done my good and faithful servant. the city and her dedication to community em- Army National Guard, Dekalb, Mississippi. You have done exceptionally well here on bodies the spirit of New Orleans. Ms. Cotton’s SGT Ladd volunteered for service shortly after earth, come on up. I welcome you into the his unit was mobilized in 2003. According to bosom of Abraham where you can rest in survivors include her mother, Carolee Reed, an article published in The Neshoba Democrat peace. and two sisters. in January 2005, SGT Ladd was honored by f Mr. Speaker, I celebrate the life and legacy an overflow crowd during a memorial service of Ms. Deborah Cotton, a beloved daughter, held on May 7 at the McClain-Hays Funeral INTRODUCING THE PRE-DISASTER MITIGATION REAUTHORIZATION sister, and example to aspiring writers every- Home. Outside of the funeral home, many where. people held flags and lined the streets which led to the Eastlawn Cemetery where SGT HON. ANDRE´ CARSON f Ladd was laid to rest with full military honors. OF INDIANA Major General Harold A. Cross, Adjutant IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. General of the Mississippi National Guard, Thursday, May 4, 2017 MURRAY’S 3RD GRADE CLASS posthumously presented SGT Ladd with a Bronze Star for meritorious service and a Pur- Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, ple Heart. The newspaper article states that today, I rise to introduce a bill to amend the HON. DAVID A. TROTT Major General Cross presented the Mississippi Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- Magnolia Cross for meritorious service, saying gency Assistance Act to reauthorize the pre- OF MICHIGAN SGT Ladd distinguished himself by making the disaster hazard mitigation program. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ultimate sacrifice. Mississippi Governor Haley First authorized in 2000, the pre-disaster Barbour would later award SGT Ladd with the hazard mitigation program has a proven his- Thursday, May 4, 2017 Mississippi Medal of Valor. tory of saving taxpayer money by investing in ‘‘He always wanted to be in the military and cost effective projects that are designed to re- Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to shoot big guns,’’ SGT Ladd’s cousin, Debbie duce injuries, loss of life, and damage and de- recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. Chisholm, said to the Associated Press. ‘‘He struction of property in the event of a disaster. Murray’s 3rd grade class at Hickory Woods El- wanted to be a soldier since he was a little As the old adage goes: an ounce of preven- ementary in Novi, Michigan. boy.’’ tion is worth its weight in gold. I know that artists get their start long before SGT Ladd is survived by his parents, Randy This is true for the pre-disaster hazard miti- gation program. The Multi Hazard Mitigation high school and college, learning to expand and Deborah Ladd. Council of the National Institute of Building their imagination and foster their creativity in SGT Ladd’s service will always be remem- bered. Sciences has found that for every $1 spent on classrooms just like Mrs. Murray’s. mitigation, $4 were saved in potential disaster f In an effort to highlight young artists from costs. Other benefits and indirect savings at across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, TRIBUTE TO MS. RUTH LIFE, EDU- the local level and within the business sector this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color CATOR, FRIEND, AND COMMU- were also identified. Moreover, the Congres- my Capitol’’ Program. NITY ACTIVIST sional Budget Office confirmed the cost sav- ings of the program. Using a different analysis, Brimming with talent, Mrs. Murray’s students HON. DANNY K. DAVIS the CBO found in 2007 that for every $1 spent were eager to showcase their amazing artistic OF ILLINOIS on mitigation, $3 was saved in potential dis- skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES aster costs. gram. But it is not just empirical studies that have Thursday, May 4, 2017 Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Murray’s confirmed the benefits of this program. There 3rd graders did not disappoint. Their creations Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speak- are numerous examples of flood control er, I have been fortunate to have known many projects, voluntary acquisitions of real property are unique, innovative, and imaginative. Their outstanding people during my lifetime, but located in flood zones, and the construction of colorful artwork embodies our country’s bright never have I known a more outstanding, more safe rooms that have saved lives and pre- and promising future with these sharp young passionate, more consistent, more reliable or vented future damage. Areas that have experi- minds leading the way. more giving of herself than Ms. Ruth Life, enced flood damage in the past, and have It is my utmost honor to have their artwork whom I met in the 1960s. I met Ms. Life dur- flooded again, experienced reduced or no displayed in my Congressional district office in ing the time when community activism was at damage thanks to effective mitigation. For in- Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to a seriously high level. stance, in Iowa, pre-disaster mitigation funds enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- Ms. Life, like many of our generation, were were used to purchase riverfront homes from actively engaged in efforts to make life better homeowners that had suffered flood damage fice, I am reminded of their talent. for the people who lived in the communities and then converted to green space. When the Congratulations to Mrs. Murray and the where we lived and worked. Many of the work- area subsequently flooded again, there was young artists she has the pleasure of teach- shops, forums, training sessions and meetings no new damage, thanks to the pre-disaster ing. which I attended, Ms. Life would be present mitigation efforts.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.023 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E611 With today’s ongoing fiscal challenges, in- Mr. Speaker, as a single mother, I know ican Hellenic Institute regarding President creasingly severe storms, and escalating ef- from experience that no parent working full- Trump’s upcoming meeting with Turkish Presi- fects of climate change, it makes sense for time should have to raise their family in pov- dent Recep Tayyip Erdogan. As one of the co- our country to prepare for these disasters now erty. chairs of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, I in order to prevent or reduce damage. Smart The People’s budget lays our plan to invest have advocated for the rights of Greece and planning to mitigate the adverse impact of dis- in and lift women, communities of color, and Cyprus against the intimidating actions of Tur- asters not only saves lives, but saves working families out of poverty. key. Since Turkey’s Presidential referendum money—especially over the long run. Our budget takes serious steps to end the vote, Erdogan’s government continues to ig- In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy when scourge of poverty in America, including rais- nore and violate long-standing international there were initial damage estimates in the bil- ing the wage to $15 an hour, offering universal law and treaties—a threat to regional security lions of dollars, many Members from both child care, and expanding paid sick leave to and an impediment to regional interests, sta- sides of the aisle streamed to the floor to ex- all families. bility, and prosperity. press sympathy to the victims, as well as Finally, this budget lays out a plan to curb As we have done times before, we must decry the extent of the damage and large bloated Pentagon spending and reinvest in di- continue to condemn these acts of aggression costs. This program represents an opportunity plomacy and humanitarian aid. and renew our call for President Erdogan’s to curb similar costs in the future while also It would take long overdue action to reign in government to demonstrate to the international saving lives and protecting property. waste, fraud, and abuse at the Pentagon, and community that it is committed to all inter- It is time to reauthorize the Pre-Disaster give us an audit so we can see where our tax- national laws and agreements. Additionally, Hazard Mitigation Program at a sufficient level payer dollars are going. And it would prohibit the United States and our strategic regional al- to make an impact. I urge my colleagues to the expansion of US combat troops into Presi- lies must be better prepared to respond quick- support this measure. dent Trump’s unauthorized and illegal war in ly and forcefully to transgression of inter- Syria. f national law from any nation including NATO Mr. Speaker, this is a budget that we are ally Turkey through targeted sanctions and for- PEOPLE’S BUDGET proud to stand behind. This is a bold state- eign aid restrictions. ment of our principles and our promise to fight President DONALD J. TRUMP, HON. BARBARA LEE for the American people. President of the United States, This is our Roadmap for Resistance. Washington, DC. OF CALIFORNIA f DEAR MR. PRESIDENT: On behalf of the na- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tionwide membership of the American Hel- Thursday, May 4, 2017 IN RECOGNITION OF MRS. lenic Institute (AHI), I write in advance of HILLARD’S 3RD GRADE CLASS Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, first, I would like to visit to Washington to raise the Institute’s thank my colleagues, Congressman KEITH HON. DAVID A. TROTT concern about how Turkey is a significant ELLISON and Congressman RAU´ L GRIJALVA, for force of instability. In recent months, Tur- OF MICHIGAN their tireless leadership of the Progressive key has elevated tensions in the Aegean Sea IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Caucus. with NATO ally Greece, threatened Cyprus’ I would also like to thank to Congress- Thursday, May 4, 2017 sovereign right to explore for natural gas within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) woman PRAMILA JAYAPAL and Congresswoman Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to and has infringed upon Cyprus’ EEZ, and JAMIE RASKIN for hosting this Special Order recognize the bright young artists in Mrs. President Erdogan has directed alarming Hour and for their work on this budget. It truly Hillard’s 3rd grade class at Randolph Elemen- rhetoric toward the European Union and its is a document we all can be proud of. Mr. tary in Livonia, Michigan. citizens. In February, I wrote to urge the ad- Speaker, the federal budget is, at its heart, a I know that artists get their start long before ministration to act to uphold the rule of law moral document. It tells a story to the Amer- high school and college, learning to expand and to call on Turkey, the provocateur of ican people, and it tells the world who and their imagination and foster their creativity in these tensions, to cease and desist with its actions that have dire implications to U.S. what we care about. classrooms just like Mrs. Hillard’s. security interests. Now, AHI requests these Mr. Speaker, President Trump’s outrageous In an effort to highlight young artists from issues, which demonstrate the instability for budget that he released last month revealed across Michigan’s 11th Congressional District, which Turkey is responsible, to be placed on what we’ve long suspected: President Trump’s this year, I announced the 1st Annual ‘‘Color your meeting agenda with President Erdogan only concern is for himself and his rich friends. my Capitol’’ Program. on May 16. His budget is both hateful and counter- Brimming with talent, Mrs. Hillard’s students AEGEAN SEA productive. were eager to showcase their amazing artistic Historically, Turkey has violated Greece’s Faced with such boldfaced cruelty, it’s more skills and take part in this one-of-a-kind pro- sovereignty in the Aegean Sea on an almost important than ever that we present our own gram. daily basis. In 1996, Turkey’s claims to the vision for the budget. Let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Hillard’s Imia islets nearly led the two NATO allies to And what a vision the People’s Budget is. 3rd graders did not disappoint. Their creations war over the islands. In recent years, the In- stitute notes Turkey’s frequent and egre- The People’s Budget is the most progres- are unique, innovative, and imaginative. Their colorful artwork embodies our country’s bright gious violations of NATO ally Greece’s sov- sive budget ever presented to Congress. ereignty in the Aegean Sea: It invests in people and communities, in- and promising future with these sharp young In 2014, there were 3,045 total violations of stead of corporations, billionaires, and bombs. minds leading the way. Greek national airspace and Infringements It forces Wall Street executives to pay their It is my utmost honor to have their artwork of Air Traffic Regulations (ICAO) that re- fair share by closing the tax loopholes that displayed in my Congressional district office in sulted in eight engagements with Hellenic corporations use to send jobs overseas and Troy, Michigan for everyone who visits to Air Force interception fighters, according to enjoy. Each and every time I walk into my of- the Hellenic National Defense General Staff. give CEO millions in untaxed bonuses. In- On March 1, 2015, Turkey unilaterally stead, it invests in small business owners and fice, I am reminded of their talent. Congratulations to Mrs. Hillard and the issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), a move Main Street to uplift those working in their to reserve extensive airspace over the Ae- communities. young artists she has the pleasure of teach- gean Sea for military maneuvers that Greece Our budget invests in our communities by ing. protested. On March 3, 2015, Turkey canceled fixing infrastructure, including the leaded pipes f the NOTAM thanks to pressure from the U.S. in places like Flint, and bringing broadband to and NATO. AMERICAN HELLENIC INSTITUTE On July 15, 2015, six Turkish fighters libraries and schools. LETTER TO PRESIDENT TRUM crossed into Greek airspace 20 times—in a It invests over $1 trillion in the next genera- REGARDING TURKEY single day. tion—from universal pre-school to debt-free On February 15, 2016, six Turkish fighter college—so that every child, no matter what HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS jets and a CN–235 maritime patrol aircraft family they’re born into, can get a high quality violated Greek airspace 22 times—again, in a OF FLORIDA education. single day. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In sum, 2,573 infringements and violations And it fully funds my Computer Science for Thursday, May 4, 2017 of Greece’s airspace occurred in 2016 All initiative, which would increase access to In fall 2016, Turkish President Recep STEM programs for girls and students of Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Tayyip Erdog˘ an has elevated tensions unnec- color. include in the RECORD a letter from the Amer- essarily by publicly calling into question the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:41 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MY8.027 E04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E612 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 4, 2017 integrity of the Treaty of Lausanne. Now, on naticism within Turkish society,’’ To further to ISIL and the Al-Nusrah Front, an Al- one day during the week of January 29 to illustrate Turkey’s provocative actions are Qaida affiliate.’’ Additionally, Turkey only February 4, 2017, Greece’s Ministry of De- ongoing, Turkey issued a Navtex on April 19, agreed to help after the Turks ‘‘forced the fense recorded 138 violations of Greek air- 2017 that according to one press report re- U.S. into a yearlong negotiation’’ to use space over islands in the Aegean Sea, which serves ‘‘an area inside the island’s Exclusive Incirlik air base to strike the Islamic State, had to be intercepted. This is unprecedented. Economic Zone (EEZ), off Famagusta, to according to Wall Street Journal com- On the sea, Greek and Turkish ships were in- carry out seismic surveys between April 30 mentary. As a result, policy analysts have volved in a ‘‘faceoff’ when a Turkish navy and June 30.’’ The report elaborates on cov- openly questioned whether Turkey should be missile boat, and supporting crafts, entered erage of the Navtex, stating it not only in- a NATO member. To further illustrate this and violated Greece’s territorial waters by cludes Cyprus’ EEZ, but it also extends into point, Turkey undermined the coalition’s ef- the Imia islets. a part of Cyprus’ territorial waters. Adding forts to combat ISIS when it killed partner These Turkish provocations have caused to this development is Turkey’s intensified forces in a series of airstrikes in Syria and Greece’s Defense Minister, Panos Kammenos, military presence in an area stretching Iraq on April 25th. to state, ‘‘The Greek armed forces are ready south from Rhodes to the coast of Paphos in Therefore, AHI cautions that whatever fu- to answer any provocation.’’ Cyprus and the issuance of three consecutive ture assistance Turkey should grant the President Trump, Greece’s sovereignty in Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) for military ex- United States on ISIS must not come at the the Aegean Sea and respect for the Treaty of ercise over Turkish-occupied northern Cy- expense of true and tried allies who promote Lausanne, both of which are in the best in- prus. Moreover, these threats in Cyprus’ EEZ and advance U.S. national interests in the terests of the United States, must be re- are an endangerment to U.S. companies, eastern Mediterranean region. spected. Greece must expend immense finan- such as ExxonMobil and Noble Energy, who President Trump, AHI’s perspective on cial resources to defend its sovereignty—up- have been, or will be, working to explore for these pressing issues are founded on the rule wards of $400 million a year—during an eco- hydrocarbons in the eastern Mediterranean. of law and are based on what is in the best nomic crisis from which it is in the best in- The Republic of Cyprus has the sovereign interests of United States security in the re- terest of the United States for Greece to right under international law to explore and gion. Given the conduct and policies of the emerge. Moreover, despite its economic dif- exploit its natural resources within its EEZ. Erdogan regime, it is essential that the U.S. ficulties, Greece continues to be of vital im- The United States has repeatedly stated it fundamentally re-assess our alliance and portance for the projection of U.S. strategic supports Cyprus’ sovereign right to explore overall relationship with Turkey. We hope interests by its geographic location and its energy in its offshore areas. Cypriot govern- that you will make this point to President strong, unwavering support for NATO. As ment officials, such as Foreign Minister Erdogan. home to the most important naval presence Ioannis Kasoulides, have stated the island’s Thank you for your consideration. in the Mediterranean Sea, NSA Souda Bay, natural resources belong to all its people and Sincerely, Crete, Greece has been critical to the deliv- that once a settlement is reached, potential NICK LARIGAKIS, ery of U.S. troops, cargo, and supplies, pro- revenues would be shared. President. viding access and extending the U.S. and Furthermore, regarding the Cyprus settle- f NATO’s reach into the Middle East and ment talks, which are at a near stand-still, North Africa. To illustrate, in 2015, more instead of helping to provide stability by 31ST ANNUAL DEPARTMENT OF than 70 U.S. Navy and NATO ships and ves- promoting a just settlement supported by VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) NA- sels visited Souda Bay and more than 2,830 both communities, Turkey continues to in- TIONAL VETERANS GOLDEN AGE U.S. Air Force and NATO planes utilized the sist on antiquated and obstructive stances. GAMES 115th Combat Wing on Crete. Also, more For example, Turkey’s insistence the Treaty than 65 U.S. ships and more than 1,200 train- of Guarantee allows for future unilateral ees utilized NMIOTC. Turkish military interventions, which is HON. TRENT KELLY In addition, Greece is a top contributor to completely unacceptable and contradicts the OF MISSISSIPPI the defense efforts of NATO, spending an es- governing principals of a European Union IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES timated 2.38% of its GDP on defense. Greece member state. Moreover, Turkey refuses to Thursday, May 4, 2017 is second behind only the United States in withdraw its 40,000 illegally-stationed troops this regard. on Cyprus. The withdrawal of Turkish troops Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, Greece aspires to achieve complete nor- would be a significant confidence building today I rise to recognize the 31st Annual De- malized relations with Turkey, however, the measure in the peace process. partment of Veterans Affairs (VA) National latter, as official policy, continues to threat- Meanwhile, Turkey’s relations with the en Greece with war (casus belli) and pro- Veterans Golden Age Games (NVGAG) that European Union are at low-point. President will be held in Biloxi, Mississippi, May 7–11, motes territorial claims that are unfounded Erdogan’s consolidation of power following and devoid of any legal basis. These claims the referendum vote of April 15 is of concern, 2017. The National Veterans Golden Age disregard all relevant treaties and agree- leading to the Parliamentary Assembly of Games give veterans with and without disabil- ments in force, including the 1947 Paris the Council of Europe (PACE) to announce it ities an equal opportunity to demonstrate their Peace Treaty under which the Dodecanese Is- will begin re-monitoring Turkey and also competitive spirit through multi-event sports. lands and adjacent islets were ceded by Italy leading some members of European Par- The National Veterans Golden Age Games to Greece. Because the U.S. is a signatory to liament to state the EU will have to reassess are open to veterans 55 years of age and the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty, this Treaty is its position on Turkey. In the lead-up to the U.S. federal law which the U.S. is bound to older who are enrolled to receive healthcare April 15 referendum, President Erdogan through the VA. Competition events include air enforce. Turkey’s ongoing dispute of called Europe the ‘‘center of Nazism.’’ This Greece’s sovereignty in the Aegean was re- does not bode well for the fragile EU-Turkey rifle, bowling, cycling, swimming, golf, and affirmed by policy analysts following Tur- deal on the migrant crisis, which if it falls table tennis. key’s National Security Council meeting apart, will have a detrimental effect on The National Veterans Golden Age Games held in late March 2017, according to a press Greece, which took the brunt of the crisis in was established in 1983 to inspire older vet- report. The analysts observed ‘‘. . . fiery 2015–16 with more than one million arrivals. erans to remain physically active, regardless rhetoric emanating from Ankara is not just Finally, AHI understands fully well that to win over a domestic audience, saying that of age or ability. Thousands of competitors defeating ISIS will be at the top of your it underlines its core policy objectives with have achieved personal goals through rehabili- agenda with President Erdogan. However, regard to the Aegean and the Eastern Medi- tation and competition. It is inspiring to see so the United States cannot depend on, or trust, terranean.’’ many veterans improve their quality of life Turkey as an ally in this important fight. CYPRUS ‘‘Erdogan long played footsie with the Is- through the National Veterans Golden Age In March 2017, the Turkish Foreign Min- lamic State; his government apparently Games. istry condemned Cyprus’ research for nat- helped arm, sell oil from, and open Turkish As a member of the Mississippi Army Na- ural gas within Cyprus’ exclusive economic territory for use by ISIS. More recently he tional Guard for 31 years, I know the important zone (EEZ). In recent years, Turkey has vio- has targeted the Syrian Kurds, U.S. allies role physical fitness plays in the lives of our lated international law by practicing ‘‘gun- against ISIS,’’ writes Doug Bandow, senior veterans. This program is a continued success boat diplomacy’’ in the eastern Mediterra- fellow at the Cato Institute, an April 26, 2017 as displayed by the many veterans who look nean with an incursion into Cyprus’ EEZ. opinion piece. Bandow concludes, ‘‘In the to the National Veterans Golden Age Games This has led Cypriot President Nicos case of Turkey, President Erdogan has aban- Anastasiades to express concern about Tur- doned its long-standing affinity for the for fulfillment on multiple levels. key sparking a ‘‘hot incident’’ in the eastern West.’’ Moreover, in a 2015 article, Robert I am proud of all the veterans who are rep- Mediterranean. He stated, ‘‘I fear the period Ellis cited a UN Security Council report that resenting the First Congressional District of from now until the referendum in Turkey, as he states concludes: ‘‘Turkey has also pro- Mississippi this year and wish them the best of well as the effort to create a climate of fa- vided the primary routes for arms smuggled luck.

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HIGHLIGHTS Senate agreed to the motion to concur in the amendment of the House to the amendment of the Senate to H.R. 244, Consolidated Appropria- tions Act. Senate 2017, after taking action on the following amend- Chamber Action ments and motions proposed thereto: Routine Proceedings, pages S2735–S2781 Pages S2735–37, S2738–61 Measures Introduced: Twenty-seven bills and five Withdrawn: resolutions were introduced, as follows: S. McConnell motion to refer the message of the 1037–1063, and S. Res. 154–158. Pages S2774–75 House on the bill to the Committee on Health, Edu- Measures Reported: cation, Labor, and Pensions, with instructions, McConnell Amendment No. 212, to change the en- Special Report entitled ‘‘Further Revised Alloca- actment date. Pages S2735, S2741 tion to Subcommittees of Budget Totals for Fiscal Year 2017’’. (S. Rept. No. 115–43) McConnell motion to concur in the amendment of the House to the amendment of the Senate to the S. 585, to provide greater whistleblower protec- bill, with McConnell Amendment No. 210 (to the tions for Federal employees, increased awareness of House Amendment to the Senate amendment), to Federal whistleblower protections, and increased ac- change the enactment date. Pages S2735, S2741 countability and required discipline for Federal su- pervisors who retaliate against whistleblowers, with During consideration of this measure today, Senate also took the following action: amendments. (S. Rept. No. 115–44) Page S2773 McConnell Amendment No. 213 (to (the instructions) Measures Passed: Amendment No. 212), of a perfecting nature, fell when U.S. Wants to Compete for a World Expo Act: McConnell motion to refer the message of the House on Senate passed H.R. 534, to require the Secretary of the bill to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, with instructions, McConnell Amendment State to take such actions as may be necessary for the No. 212, was withdrawn. Pages S2735, S2741 United States to rejoin the Bureau of International McConnell Amendment No. 214 (to Amendment No. Expositions, after agreeing to the committee amend- 213), of a perfecting nature, fell when McConnell ment in the nature of a substitute. Pages S2737–38 Amendment No. 213 (to (the instructions) Amendment Enrollment Correction: Senate agreed to H. Con. No. 212), fell. Pages S2735, S2741 Res. 53, providing for a correction in the enrollment McConnell Amendment No. 211 (to Amendment of H.R. 244. Pages S2754, S2761 No. 210), of a perfecting nature, fell when McCon- nell motion to concur in the amendment of the Cinco de Mayo Holiday: Senate agreed to S. Res. House to the amendment of the Senate to the bill, 158, recognizing the cultural and historical signifi- with McConnell Amendment No. 210 (to the House cance of the Cinco de Mayo holiday. Page S2781 Amendment to the Senate amendment), was with- House Messages: drawn. Pages S2735, S2741 Consolidated Appropriations Act: By 79 yeas to Subsequently, the motion to invoke cloture on the 18 nays (Vote No. 121), Senate agreed to the motion motion to concur in the amendment of the House to concur in the amendment of the House to the to the amendment of the Senate to the bill, was ren- amendment of the Senate to H.R. 244, making ap- dered moot. Page S2741 propriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, D494

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:23 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04MY7.REC D04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with DIGEST May 4, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D495 Appointments: health outcomes, and lower costs, after receiving tes- Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and timony from Kevin Galpin, Executive Director, Delinquency Prevention: The Chair, on behalf of Telehealth Services, and Thandiwe Nelson-Brooks, the Majority Leader, after consultation with the Facility Telehealth Coordinator, VA Pacific Islands Democratic Leader, pursuant to Public Law 93–415, Health Care System, both of the Veterans Health as amended by Public Law 102–586, announced the Administration, and Bill James, Deputy Assistant appointment of the following individual to the Co- Secretary (Enterprise Program Management Office), ordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delin- Office of Information and Technology, all of the De- quency Prevention: The Honorable David Tapp of partment of Veterans Affairs; Michael P. Adcock, Kentucky (3 year term), vice Richard Vincent. University of Mississippi Medical Center Center for Page S2781 Telehealth, Jackson; and Norman Okamura, Pacific Basin Telehealth Resource Center, Honolulu, Ha- Gottlieb Nomination—Cloture: Senate began con- waii. sideration of the nomination of Scott Gottlieb, of Connecticut, to be Commissioner of Food and U.S. SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND Drugs, Department of Health and Human Services. Committee on Armed Services: Committee concluded a Page S2761 hearing to examine United States Special Operations A motion was entered to close further debate on Command, after receiving testimony from Theresa the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- M. Whelan, Acting Assistant Secretary for Special sions of Rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Operations/Low-Intensity Conflict, and General Ray- Senate, a vote on cloture will occur on Monday, May mond A. Thomas III, USA, Commander, United 8, 2017, following disposition of the nomination of States Special Operations Command, both of the De- Heather Wilson, of South Dakota, to be Secretary of partment of Defense. the Air Force. Page S2761 Messages from the House: Pages S2772–73 NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM Measures Referred: Page S2773 Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine reauthor- Executive Communications: Page S2773 ization of the National Flood Insurance Program, in- Executive Reports of Committees: Pages S2773–74 cluding S. 563, to amend the Flood Disaster Protec- Additional Cosponsors: Page S2775 tion Act of 1973 to require that certain buildings and personal property be covered by flood insurance, Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: after receiving testimony from Steve Ellis, Taxpayers Pages S2775–80 for Common Sense, Washington, D.C.; Michael Additional Statements: Pages S2771–72 Hecht, Greater New Orleans, Inc., New Orleans, Authorities for Committees to Meet: Louisiana, on behalf of the Coalition for Sustainable Pages S2780–81 Flood Insurance; and Larry Larson, Association of State Floodplain Managers, Madison, Wisconsin. Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. (Total—121) Page S2761 AIRLINE TRAVEL Adjournment: Senate convened at 9:30 a.m. and Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Sub- adjourned at 4:30 p.m., until 12 p.m. on Friday, committee on Aviation Operations, Safety, and Secu- May 5, 2017. (For Senate’s program, see the remarks rity concluded a hearing to examine questions, an- of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on page swers, and perspectives on the current state of airline S2781.) travel, after receiving testimony from Ginger Evans, Chicago Department of Aviation, and Scott Kirby, Committee Meetings United Airlines, both of Chicago, Illinois; and Shar- on Pinkerton, Airlines for America, Sara Nelson, As- (Committees not listed did not meet) sociation of Flight Attendants, and Sally Greenberg, National Consumers League, all of Washington, TELEMEDICINE IN THE DEPARTMENT OF D.C. VETERANS AFFAIRS Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Mili- ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSE tary Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Related Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee Agencies concluded a hearing to examine telemedi- concluded a hearing to examine the threat posed by cine in the Department of Veterans Affairs, focusing electromagnetic pulse and policy options to protect on leveraging technology to increase access, improve energy infrastructure and to improve capabilities for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 08:23 May 05, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04MY7.REC D04MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with DIGEST D496 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 4, 2017 adequate system restoration, after receiving testi- sistance Network, Washington, D.C.; Walt M. mony from former Representative Newt Gingrich; Macnee, Mastercard, Purchase, New York; Michael Cheryl LaFleur, Acting Chairman, Federal Energy Goltzman, The Coca-Cola Company, Atlanta, Geor- Regulatory Commission, Department of Energy; gia; and Kelly Goodejohn, Starbucks, Seattle, Wash- Robin E. Manning, Electric Power Research Insti- ington. tute, Charlotte, North Carolina; Kevin Wailes, Lin- coln Electric System, Lincoln, Nebraska, on behalf of INTELLIGENCE the American Public Power Association; and Caitlin Select Committee on Intelligence: Committee held closed Durkovich, Toffler Associates, and Henry F. Cooper, hearings on intelligence matters, receiving testimony both of Reston, Virginia. from officials of the intelligence community. Committee recessed subject to the call. INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee concluded BUSINESS MEETING a hearing to examine international development, fo- Select Committee on Intelligence: Committee ordered fa- cusing on value added through private sector en- vorably reported the nomination of Courtney gagement, after receiving testimony from former Elwood, of Virginia, to be General Counsel of the Representative Jim Kolbe, Modernizing Foreign As- Central Intelligence Agency. h House of Representatives by a recorded vote of 235 ayes to 192 noes, Roll No. Chamber Action 253, after the previous question was ordered by a Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 48 pub- yea-and-nay vote of 235 yeas to 193 nays, Roll No. lic bills, H.R. 2350–2397; 1 private bill, H.R. 252. Pages H4114–38 2398; and 4 resolutions, H. Res. 314–317 were in- American Health Care Act of 2017: The House troduced. Pages H4176–78 passed H.R. 1628, to provide for reconciliation pur- Additional Cosponsors: Pages H4180–81 suant to title II of the concurrent resolution on the Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: budget for fiscal year 2017, by a recorded vote of H.R. 1808, to amend and improve the Missing 217 ayes to 213 noes, Roll No. 256. Consideration Children’s Assistance Act, and for other purposes, began on Friday, March 24. Pages H4149–70, H4171–72 with an amendment (H. Rept. 115–110); and Pursuant to H. Res. 228, the further amendments H.R. 1809, to reauthorize and improve the Juve- printed in H. Rept. 115–109 shall be considered as nile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of adopted. Pages H4114–15 1974, and for other purposes, with an amendment H. Res. 308, the rule providing for consideration (H. Rept. 115–111). Page H4176 of the bill (H.R. 2192) and providing for further consideration of the bill (H.R. 1628) was agreed to Journal: The House agreed to the Speaker’s approval by a recorded vote of 235 ayes to 192 noes, Roll No. of the Journal by a yea-and-nay vote of 233 yeas to 253, after the previous question was ordered by a 186 nays with 2 answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. 254. yea-and-nay vote of 235 yeas to 193 nays, Roll No. Pages H4113, H4138–39 252. Pages H4114–38 Amending the Public Health Service Act to Suspension—Proceedings Resumed: The House eliminate the non-application of certain State agreed to suspend the rules and pass the following waiver provisions to Members of Congress and measure. Consideration began Tuesday, May 2nd. congressional staff: The House passed H.R. 2192, to amend the Public Health Service Act to eliminate Korean Interdiction and Modernization of Sanc- the non-application of certain State waiver provisions tions Act: H.R. 1644, amended, to enhance sanc- to Members of Congress and congressional staff, by tions with respect to transactions relating to North a yea-and-nay vote of 429 yeas with none voting Korea, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 419 yeas to 1 ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 255. Pages H4139–49, H4170–71 nay, Roll No. 257. Page H4172 H. Res. 308, the rule providing for consideration U.S. Wants to Compete for a World Expo Act: of the bill (H.R. 2192) and providing for further The House agreed to take from the Speaker’s table consideration of the bill (H.R. 1628) was agreed to and concur in the Senate amendment to H.R. 534,

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to require the Secretary of State to take such actions IMPROVING THE SMALL BUSINESS as may be necessary for the United States to rejoin INNOVATION RESEARCH AND SMALL the Bureau of International Expositions. BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER Pages H4172–73 PROGRAMS Meeting Hour: Agreed by unanimous consent that Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Con- when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet tracting and Workforce; and Subcommittee on Re- at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 8th. Page H4173 search and Technology of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held a joint hearing Senate Messages: Messages received from the Senate entitled ‘‘Improving the Small Business Innovation today appear on pages H4139, H4149 and H4174. Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Quorum Calls—Votes: Four yea-and-nay votes and Programs’’. Testimony was heard from Joe Shepard, two recorded votes developed during the proceedings Associate Administrator, Office of Investment and of today and appear on pages H4137, H4138, Innovation, Small Business Administration; John H4138–39, H4170–71, H4171–72 and H4172. Neumann, Director, Natural Resources and Environ- There were no quorum calls. ment, Government Accountability Office; and public Adjournment: The House met at 9 a.m. and ad- witnesses. journed at 2:58 p.m. ONGOING INTELLIGENCE ACTIVITIES PERMANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON Committee Meetings INTELLIGENCE Full Committee held a hearing on ongoing intel- FINANCIAL CHOICE ACT OF 2017 ligence activities. This hearing was closed. Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee con- cluded a markup on H.R. 10, the ‘‘Financial Joint Meetings CHOICE Act of 2017’’. H.R. 10 was ordered re- No joint committee meetings were held. ported, as amended. f COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR FRIDAY, EXAMINING A CHURCH’S RIGHT TO FREE MAY 5, 2017 SPEECH (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- committee on Health Care, Benefits, and Adminis- Senate trative Rules; and Subcommittee on Government No meetings/hearings scheduled. Operations held a joint hearing entitled, ‘‘Examining a Church’s Right to Free Speech’’. Testimony was House heard from public witnesses. No hearings are scheduled.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 12 noon, Friday, May 5 9 a.m., Monday, May 8

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Friday: Senate will meet in a pro forma Program for Monday: House will meet in a Pro Forma session. session at 9 a.m.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE DeFazio, Peter A., Ore., E606, E609 Lowey, Nita M., N.Y., E608 Dingell, Debbie, Mich., E609 Pingree, Chellie, Me., E605 Arrington, Jodey C., Tex., E604 Frankel, Lois, Fla., E605 Richmond, Cedric L., La., E609 Beatty, Joyce, Ohio, E603 Gallagher, Mike, Wisc., E607 Scott, Austin, Ga., E608 Bilirakis, Gus M., Fla., E611 Huffman, Jared, Calif., E604 Sensenbrenner, F. James, Jr., Wisc., E607 Carson, Andre´, Ind., E610 Katko, John, N.Y., E603 Sewell, Terri A., Ala., E603, E605, E607 Cartwright, Matt, Pa., E605 Kelly, Trent, Miss., E605, E606, E608, E610, E612 Smith, Jason, Mo., E609 Coffman, Mike, Colo., E606 Kinzinger, Adam, Ill., E604 Trott, David A., Mich., E604, E605, E606, E608, E609, Davis, Danny K., Ill., E610 Lee, Barbara, Calif., E611 E610, E611, E613

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