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

Vol. 165 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2019 No. 164 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was lic for which it stands, one nation under God, has developed a curriculum that has called to order by the Honorable JOHN indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. reached over 1 million men worldwide BOOZMAN, a Senator from the State of f in churches, on college campuses, in Arkansas. APPOINTMENT OF ACTING corporate boardrooms, and in correc- f PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE tional facilities. Robert’s program, the Men’s Frater- PRAYER The PRESIDING OFFICER. The nity, provides men with an encour- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Today’s clerk will please read a communication aging process of teaching them how to opening prayer will be offered by Dr. to the Senate from the President pro live lives of authentic manhood, as Robert Lewis, of Fellowship Bible tempore (Mr. GRASSLEY). modeled by Jesus Christ and directed Church, Little Rock, AR. The senior assistant legislative clerk by the Word of God. The program was The guest Chaplain offered the fol- read the following letter: designed to help men come together lowing prayer: U.S. SENATE, and strengthen each other through Let us pray. PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, weekly sessions that combine biblical Heavenly Father, we give thanks for Washington, DC, October 17, 2019. teaching and small group interaction. this new day and the hope that lies To the Senate: For 21 years, Robert served as the di- Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, within it. We have been a blessed na- rectional leader of the Fellowship Bible of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby Church of Little Rock. During that tion, not by accident but by this: In appoint the Honorable JOHN BOOZMAN, a Sen- You, God, we trust. Thank You for the ator from the State of Arkansas, to perform time, the church grew from a few hun- men and women of this distinguished the duties of the Chair. dred members to over 5,000, and it was body, who will again rise to face the CHUCK GRASSLEY, widely recognized as being one of the immense challenge that will mark this President pro tempore. most innovative and influential day along with the special opportuni- Mr. BOOZMAN thereupon assumed churches in America. ties that it holds for good. I pray You the Chair as Acting President pro tem- Robert helped to bring Downline, will make this body ready for both. pore. which is a citywide discipleship min- In these turbulent times, empower The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. istry, to Little Rock, where he con- their work with Your Spirit. Give them HYDE-SMITH). The Senator from Arkan- tinues to serve as a part-time instruc- a difference making wisdom only You sas. tor. He continues to be involved in his local church and beyond, and he min- possess. Protect them from small ambi- f tions. Call each heart here up to the isters nationally and across the world. higher ways of humility, under- WELCOMING DR. ROBERT LEWIS Robert and Sherard, his wife, have standing, and much needed unity. Help Mr. BOOZMAN. Madam President, I been married for over 40 years. They these leaders seek what is right and would like to take a moment, first of have four children and three grand- best for all in this Nation: the weak all, to thank Chaplain Black for all children. Serving as the guest chaplain is an and the strong, the rich and the want- that he does here. The Senate is a incredible honor. I am thankful for ing, the great and the small; and let much better place as a result of having Robert’s ministry, and I am so pleased their work here today end tonight as a him around. that he could be here to offer an invo- credit, not a deficit, to our Nation’s I would also like to take a moment cation of asking God to guide and bless life-giving legacy of liberty and justice to thank Dr. Robert Lewis for deliv- the efforts of Congress and America’s for all. ering the opening prayer in the Senate leaders. Bless this Chamber, Father. Make us today. I yield the floor. better through them, and lead us all Robert and I had the opportunity to forward in the ways of righteousness play football together at the Univer- f for Your greater glory. sity of Arkansas. He was a very good RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY We pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen. football player and had the gift of LEADER f smack. He would hit you. He had a tre- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- mendous work ethic and character, and jority leader is recognized. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE we all knew that he would do well in f The Presiding Officer led the Pledge whatever he decided to do. of Allegiance, as follows: Robert is, today, a renowned pastor, REMEMBERING ELIJAH CUMMINGS I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the a best-selling author, a passionate Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, United States of America, and to the Repub- speaker, and a Christian visionary. He first, this morning, I join colleagues on

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

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.000 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5856 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 both sides of the Capitol in expressing sides of the aisle as we chart the right Kentucky, would have seen double- our grief and sadness at the passing of course, and I expect many of us will digit percentage increases in their elec- our House colleague, Chairman ELIJAH have much more to say on the subject tricity costs, and by the Obama offi- CUMMINGS. very soon. cials’ own admissions, the proposal In his over more than two decades in f would have hit low-income and minor- the House of Representatives, CUM- ity communities the hardest. Let me S.J. RES. 53 MINGS became a living legend in his na- say that again: Low-income and minor- tive Baltimore. By all accounts, he was Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, ity populations would have been hit a powerful and passionate voice on the on one final matter, this week, I have the hardest by the double-digit elec- national stage and was a strong advo- been discussing how Washington Demo- tricity bill increases in four out of cate for his neighbors, his district, and crats have sought for 3 years to effec- every five States. That is quite a rap his values. He counted close friends and tively nullify the Trump Presidency. sheet for a Federal policy. admirers from all across the political They have tried to cancel out the vot- In a nation in which carbon emis- spectrum. ers’ decision in 2016 and dodge the con- sions have already been trending down- The Capitol will lower its flags today sequences of Secretary Clinton’s defeat ward, this proposal would have sold off to mark this significant loss and re- whether it be through the 3-year-old our economic edge to overseas com- member a life well lived. The Senate impeachment parade that the House petitors whose emissions are, actually, unites our prayers with those in the Democrats have been leading or steadily climbing. It would have taken House for Maya, ELIJAH’s wife; for his through the unprecedented delays and the legs out from under American job children; and for all of the colleagues, obstruction that has been visited on creators while some of the world’s lead- friends, and staff who will miss him the President’s nominations here in ing polluters would have continued to greatly. the Senate. roar right past us. It would have lit- Well, our Democratic colleagues will erally shipped our economic competi- f today mount yet another effort to fire tiveness to places like China and India. TURKEY AND SYRIA up the time machine. They want to Here is how experts estimated the ef- move forward with legislation that Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, fect of all of this self-inflicted eco- would undo a major regulatory reform on an entirely different matter, I was nomic damage on the climate: a one success story of the Trump administra- encouraged to see yesterday’s display one-hundredth-of-1-degree difference by tion’s and reopen the Obama adminis- of bipartisan concern in the House of 2050. Here is the impact estimated to tration’s disastrous War on Coal. Spe- Representatives for sustaining Amer- have happened if it had gone forward— cifically, they want to try and revive ica’s global leadership and, specifi- a one one-hundredth-of-1-degree dif- the so-called Clean Power Plan, which cally, over the damaging impact of ference by 2050. Think how deeply you is a dangerous, misguided policy that hastily withdrawing that leadership would have to be in the grip of leftwing the Trump administration has rightly from Syria. ideology for that trade-off to sound Back in January, I led a forward- done away with. We will be voting on this resolution later today. like a good deal for American families. looking debate here in the Senate on Today’s effort to revive this bad pol- these very issues. I sponsored an The basic facts haven’t changed since this job-killing scheme was first put icy is being pushed by the same Senate amendment to S. 1 that earned the sup- Democrats who, overwhelmingly, could port of a bipartisan supermajority—70 forward back in 2014. This relic of the Obama administration would have fur- not bring themselves to vote against Senators. We went on the record as op- ther buried the producers of affordable something as absurd as the Green New posing a premature exit from Syria or American energy under a mountain of Deal back in March. Unfortunately, we Afghanistan and emphasized the need stifling redtape. It would have created know there is a considerable appetite for sustained American leadership in overlapping local, State, and Federal among Democrats to inflict huge eco- the fight against terrorism. standards, unrealistic compliance nomic harm on American workers and I was disappointed when a number of deadlines, and would have set up a American families just so we can bet- leading Democrats, including my coun- Washington bureaucracy that would ef- ter comply with this new green reli- terpart, the Democratic leader, and fectively root for American energy to gion. most of our colleagues who are running fail. It is no wonder, by one analysis, But here is the good news for my con- for President, voted against this bipar- that 125,000 jobs would have been on stituents in Kentucky and for hard- tisan consensus, but, overall, a huge the chopping block had President working Americans across the Nation: majority of the Senate spoke up Obama gotten his way. Senate Republicans are on the case, strongly. The workers in my State know better and we will not let far-left fashions I know many of us are keen on en- than anyone the true costs of the last take precedence over the common good gaging in these important issues fur- administration’s misguided War on of our country. ther in light of recent events. As the Coal. Kentucky workers know what The American people have elected an Senate debates our Middle East policy happens when plants that create jobs administration and a Senate majority and contemplates what action to take, and generate affordable electricity at that trusts workers and job creators, I believe it is important that we make the same time are simply shut down. not Washington bureaucracies. We a strong, forward-looking, strategic That is why I have been proud to lead have spent years cleaning up the mess statement. the fight in ending the regulatory War of overregulation that the Obama era For that reason, my preference would on Coal. It is why I wrote every Gov- has left behind, and we will continue to be for something even stronger than ernor in the country in 2015 and raised stop the Democrats from reenacting the resolution the House passed yester- my concerns about the Obama adminis- that damaging history. day, which has some serious weak- tration’s dangerous Clean Power Plan So I would urge all of my colleagues nesses. It is so narrowly drafted that it scheme, because, even today, nearly 3 to join with us today and oppose these fails to address the plight of imperiled years into an administration that is efforts to nullify a Presidency and take Sunni Arab and minority Christian not at war with American energy, Ken- us backward. communities in Syria. It is backward- tucky miners continue to feel the ef- Let’s vote to keep this ill-conceived, looking, and it is curiously silent on fects of the previous administration’s leftwing policy on the shelf, where it the issue of whether to actually sus- policies. belongs. tain a U.S. military presence in Syria, We also know that the full effects of f perhaps to spare the Democrats from the Clean Power Plan would have having to go on the record on this key stretched far beyond coal country. The MEASURES PLACED ON THE CAL- question. ripples of this harmful proposal would ENDAR—S.J. RES. 58 AND H.J. So my first preference is for some- have been felt across the country by RES. 77 thing stronger than the House resolu- Americans in paying their power bills. Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, tion. I look forward to continuing to One independent report predicted I understand there are two bills at the engage with my colleagues on both that consumers in 40 States, including desk due a second reading en bloc.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.002 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5857 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The often, but ELIJAH was never one to request, to meet with the President clerk will read the titles of the bills for shrink from the moment. about the rapid disintegration of the the second time en bloc. I talked to him frequently. We would situation in northern Syria. Speaker The senior assistant legislative clerk talk about the goings-on in the House PELOSI and I talked about it ahead of read as follows: or the Senate or the political trivia of time, and we talked about it with Sen- A resolution (S.J. Res. 58) expressing sup- the day. Sometimes we would talk ators REED and MENENDEZ as well. We port for freedom of conscience. about Maryland politics. He was an ex- had a serious purpose: to find out if the A resolution (H.J. Res. 77) opposing the de- pert. President actually had a plan to con- cision to end certain United States efforts to ELIJAH was revered by his constitu- tain ISIS and fix the mess precipitated prevent Turkish military operations against ents and indeed by the entire State of by his decision to green-light Syrian Kurdish forces in Northeast Syria. Maryland. Liberal or conservative, Erdogan’s military incursion into Mr. MCCONNELL. In order to place Democrat or Republican, Black or Syria. the bills on the calendar under the pro- White, you went to ELIJAH CUMMINGS Alarmingly—alarmingly—President vision of rule XIV, I object to further for advice. His loss is an enormous one Trump had no plan. The greatest insult proceedings en bloc. for his constituents, for his staff and, that occurred in that room was not any The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- above all, his family. I pray for them of the name-calling that Trump did. A tion having been heard, the bills will be this morning, as I pray for our country far greater insult to America, to all of placed on the calendar. when people like ELIJAH CUMMINGS of us, was the lack of any policy guid- Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, the world are no longer with us. ance, any policy decisions, any direc- I suggest the absence of a quorum. f tion from the President and his top na- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tional security advisers on how to con- clerk will call the roll. TURKEY AND SYRIA tain ISIS. The senior assistant legislative clerk Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, on I reminded the President that as two proceeded to call the roll. Syria, yesterday, the U.S. military car- New Yorkers, we probably knew better Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, I ried out airstrikes to destroy what than most the damage a small band of ask unanimous consent that the order only a few weeks ago had been the terrorists can do, even from a half a for the quorum call be rescinded. headquarters of the American cam- world away. I asked: What is your plan The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without paign to destroy ISIS in Syria. Nothing to prevent ISIS from regrouping and objection, it is so ordered. encapsulates the failure of President resurging? He didn’t have one. Sec- retary of Defense Mark Esper didn’t f Trump’s decision to stand aside for Erdogan more than the fact that we have a plan. RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY are now bombing our own bases rather After we pushed them and pushed LEADER than allow them to fall into the hands them, I said: Who is going to take care The PRESIDING OFFICER. The of Assad, Erdogan, or Putin. of all these prisoners? The President Democratic leader is recognized. If Erdogan, Putin, and Assad are such said there were 70,000 ISIS prisoners and their families. Who is going to f great allies or no problem, as President Trump told us yesterday at the White take care of them, make sure they REMEMBERING ELIJAH CUMMINGS House, then why do we have to bomb don’t escape, as some have already? Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, we our own headquarters after American They finally said: Well, the Syrians woke up this morning to learn with troops evacuated so it doesn’t fall into and the Turks will do that. So I asked the group if they had any intelligence profound sadness that our friend and Syrian or Turkish or even Russian or assurances that the Turks and Syr- colleague Congressman ELIJAH CUM- hands? That one thing encapsulates the ians would do a decent job. Secretary MINGS, the son of sharecroppers who be- absurdity, the awfulness of President Esper himself said there was no evi- came the chair of the House Oversight Trump’s lack of policy and erratic, im- dence of that. Committee, passed away last night at pulsive, and whimsical movements on the age of 68. This is amazing. Terrorists whom we the Syrian front. have spent a decade fighting—we have It was the first thing I saw when I Yesterday the President said this spent billions of dollars and lost lives read the paper this morning, and it hit withdrawal was a ‘‘strategic move.’’ It to fight them—are finally in prison. me like a punch in the stomach. certainly is not that because this is not The Kurds are guarding them. The In his 23 years in Congress, ELIJAH the action of a military that carried Kurds are leaving, understandably, be- amassed a legacy that will live on long out a deliberate withdrawal. It is the cause they have to fight the Turks after his sudden passing. He served the action of a military that was given a now. What is the plan? There isn’t any, people of his Maryland district with fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants decision of except to rely on Syrians, Turks, who selflessness, passion, and grace. the President contrary to the rec- have not even close to the interest we Since it only happened this morning, ommendations of the commanders on have in curbing ISIS. I can’t do justice to the legacy of ELI- the ground. Assad is much more interested in JAH CUMMINGS, but I would like to Donald Trump has the nerve, the gaining back his Syrian homeland. share a few reflections, and I know gall, to think he knows more about the Erdogan is focused on hurting the that my dear friend Senator CARDIN military than these generals who have Kurds, whom he is fanatically against. was close like this—like brothers—with served our country for decades. It is ap- So they are not going to pay much at- ELIJAH CUMMINGS, and they had worked palling. How does America put up with tention to ISIS. together on so many things for Mary- this? How do our Republican colleagues It was appalling, just appalling. land and the country. I know he is here put up with this? He doesn’t consult President Trump has stepped aside for sharing our deep sadness. the generals. What a blunder, and it Putin, Assad, and Erdogan. Our allies, Now, truly, ELIJAH CUMMINGS was not seems to be the result of the Presi- the Kurds, are being slaughtered as a just a great Congressman. He was a dent’s inability to say no to dictators. result of our betrayal. Most impor- great man. He had a presence—a com- He seems to like a Putin and an tantly, as Secretary Mattis said, ‘‘if we manding presence—when he entered Erdogan and even a Kim more than our don’t keep the pressure on [in Syria], the room, and he could be strong when allies. This is also a clear demonstra- ISIS will resurge. It’s absolutely a he had to be, and he had to be strong tion of the President’s fecklessness and given that they will come back.’’ quite often. But he also was always recklessness, both, or as my colleague The President didn’t like hearing kind and decent and caring and honor- Senator LINDSEY GRAHAM, and one of Mattis’s words, but all of America able. the President’s staunchest allies in should. He is one of the most respected It is a rare combination, that inner Congress, said, ‘‘I fear that this is a military minds, one of the most re- strength and that decency and that complete and utter national security spected leaders on both sides of the kindness. ELIJAH had it. If we had lived disaster in the making.’’ aisle—liberals, Independents, conserv- in happier times, maybe the public Yesterday afternoon, congressional atives. Here is what he said, again re- would have seen this kind side more leaders went to the White House, at its peating:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.003 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5858 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 [I]f we don’t keep the pressure on [in their kind intended to meet the threat the House passes things, Leader Syria], ISIS will resurge. It’s absolutely a of climate change. Earlier in July, by MCCONNELL and my Senate Republican given that they will come back. employing shady science, the Trump colleagues have simply turned this So make no mistake, the President’s administration so violently obliterated Chamber into a legislative graveyard, incompetence, his impulsiveness, his these safeguards protecting our globe, where good ideas that would help the erraticness has made Americans less our world, and frankly a lot of the for- middle class and those trying to get to safe—Americans here in our homeland. ests in my home State of New York. In the middle class just come to die. Congress, today, must make the fact its place, the Trump administration We could be reauthorizing the Vio- clear to the President in a bipartisan enacted a new rule that will allow big lence Against Women Act; we could be fashion. polluters to wreck our air, dirty our voting on election security; we could We have the opportunity, my col- water, and poison our Earth with little be voting on background checks, but leagues. The House passed a resolution or no accountability. Leader MCCONNELL has buried hun- condemning the President’s decision by Thanks to this new rule, common- dreds of House bills in his legislative an overwhelming vote of 354 to 60. That sense limits on carbon emissions have graveyard. means the vast majority of House Re- been blurred, and deadlines for imple- After 1,000 days since President publicans—129 to be exact—condemned menting the reductions have now been Trump took office, he and his Repub- the President’s decision in Syria. Lead- tripled or even quadrupled, but time is lican colleagues have made clear whose er MCCARTHY, Whip SCALISE, and No. 3 running out for the United States to side they are on. If you are ultrarich, CHENEY all voted for it. They are as meet the existential threat posed by you are very powerful, you have great loyal to President Trump as anybody, climate change. That is why this rule connections, it has been a great few but they saw the danger, the real dan- is such a grave mistake. years, but for everyone else, it has been ger. Today the Senate should, and I Thankfully, in this case, the minor- a string of disappointing, broken, and hope will, follow suit. We can quibble ity can do something under the Con- heartbreaking promises. Come next about the language, but I have no gressional Review Act. We are allowed year, the American people will have a doubt we can agree on the basic mes- to overturn some of the rules this ad- chance to vote for real change. sage, and there is no reason we can’t ministration unilaterally put in place. I yield the floor. vote on a Senate resolution today. Later this morning, we will vote on f Time is of the essence. To say, well, Senator CARDIN’s resolution of dis- RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME I would like to add this word or add approval, which, if passed, will repeal this sentence, as Kurds are being the Trump’s administration’s destruc- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under slaughtered, as ISIS terrorists are es- tive rule and reinstitute the safeguards the previous order, the leadership time caping—no, no, no. No, no, no. We that were originally in place. is reserved. should move to the House bill imme- Our Republican colleagues have a f diately because we all know there is choice. They can either stop the roll- CONCLUSION OF MORNING only one person who can reverse this, back of lifesaving environmental pro- BUSINESS and that is the President. The greatest tections or they can side with energy ability to make him reverse is an over- companies that put their fortunes The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning whelming message from the Repub- ahead of our future. The choice is business is closed. lican side—House and Senate—that theirs. f this is wrong. He doesn’t hear that pub- f MEASURE DISCHARGED licly too often from our Republican friends. He has heard it from the TRUMP ADMINISTRATION The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under House, correctly and courageously. Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, one the previous order, S.J. Res. 53 is dis- Please, my friends, my Republican final note. Today marks 1,000 days of charged from committee. friends in the Senate, let’s put politics President Trump’s time in office. If we There being no objection, the com- aside. Today let’s vote the House bill were to summarize his administration mittee was discharged. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- passed yesterday by them. There is no over the last 21⁄2 years in a single time to waste. Time is of the essence phrase, it would be this: broken prom- ator from Maryland. because the President still doesn’t get ises to working people. f it. Our meeting at the White House When Candidate Trump ran for office, LEGISLATIVE SESSION demonstrated that to all who were he promised to drain the swamp, but present. Hopefully, an overwhelming after 1,000 days as President, this place bipartisan vote in the Senate will is the swampiest it has ever been, with PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL break through to him. I strongly, conflicts of interest crippling this ad- DISAPPROVAL UNDER CHAPTER strongly—in the strongest of terms— ministration and inexperienced billion- 8 OF TITLE 5, UNITED STATES urge my friend Leader MCCONNELL and aires running our government. CODE, OF THE RULE SUBMITTED our Republican colleagues to allow a Candidate Trump promised health in- BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL PRO- vote on the Syrian resolution today. surance for everybody, but after 1,000 TECTION AGENCY RELATING TO Security, justice, fairness demand no days as President, costs are higher, ‘‘REPEAL OF THE CLEAN POWER less. coverage is skimpier, and his adminis- PLAN; EMISSION GUIDELINES f tration is suing to repeal the FOR GREENHOUSE GAS EMIS- healthcare we have in place and send SIONS FROM EXISTING ELECTRIC S.J. RES. 53 prices skyrocketing for millions. UTILITY GENERATING UNITS; Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, now President Trump promised a tax bill REVISIONS TO EMISSION GUIDE- on climate, as Senator CARDIN well that would be a middle-class miracle, LINES IMPLEMENTING REGULA- knows, later the Senate will vote on but the only miracle this has been has TIONS’’ his resolution of disapproval to repeal been to corporate America, which uses Mr. CARDIN. Madam President, I the Trump administration’s so-called it for stock buybacks instead of in- move to proceed to S.J. Res. 53. affordable clean energy rule. This is creasing salaries for their workers, in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The one of the few opportunities where the creasing their investments in plant and clerk will report the joint resolution minority can force a vote on the Sen- equipment. So much of these tax by title. ate floor, and there may be no more breaks went to buybacks. Shame. The senior assistant legislative clerk worthy an issue than protecting our One thousand days in, President read as follows: environment. Trump has failed to follow through on A joint resolution (S.J. Res. 53) providing Four years ago, the Obama adminis- promise after promise to working for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 tration put in place new standards and Americans, but he isn’t the only one at of title 5, United States Code, of the rule safeguards for CO2 and fossil fuel emis- fault. Democrats have fought to do the submitted by the Environmental Protection sions from powerplants—the first of work of the American people, but as Agency relating to ‘‘Repeal of the Clean

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:17 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.004 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5859 Power Plan; Emission Guidelines for Green- from the University of Maryland Law States-Mexico-Canada Free Trade house Gas Emissions From Existing Electric School, and I also graduated from the Agreement. Canada and Mexico are the Utility Generating Units; Revisions to Emis- University of Maryland Law School. No. 1 and No. 2 markets for American sion Guidelines Implementing Regulations’’. We served together in the Maryland agricultural products, and preserving Mr. CARDIN. Madam President, I General Assembly, and we served to- and expanding access to these markets know of no further debate. gether in the House of Representatives. is key to improving the economic out- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there God gave him the talent to commu- look for America’s farmers. Over a year further debate? nicate like no one I have heard. There ago, the administration finished nego- If not, the question is on agreeing to was incredible passion in his voice. I tiating a strong deal with these coun- the motion. had the opportunity to see firsthand tries that will help boost our strug- The motion was agreed to. what he was able to accomplish on be- gling agricultural economy. The clerk will report the joint resolu- half of the people. What a legacy. He To start with, the United States- tion by title. used every moment. He achieved the Mexico-Canada Agreement will provide The senior assistant legislative clerk high position of chairman of the Over- farmers with certainty about what read as follows: sight Committee but never lost his these important markets are going to A joint resolution (S.J. Res. 53) providing sense of purpose for the people he rep- look like going forward. One of the big- for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 gest challenges facing farmers on the of title 5, United States Code, of the rule resented. He went home to Baltimore every night. You could see him in the trade front right now is the uncer- submitted by the Environmental Protection tainty about what markets around the Agency relating to ‘‘Repeal of the Clean community every day at schools and at Power Plan; Emission Guidelines for Green- church. He never lost the passion for world are going to look like. The house Gas Emissions From Existing Electric the people he represented. United States-Mexico-Canada Agree- Utility Generating Units; Revisions to Emis- What a legacy he has left for all of ment will give farmers and ranchers sion Guidelines Implementing Regulations’’. us. We can’t fill the void that has been clarity on what trade is going to look There being no objection, the Senate created by Congressman CUMMINGS’ like with these two key trading part- proceeded to consider the joint resolu- passing, but all of us need to step up ners. tion. and help carry out that legacy of pub- In addition to providing certainty and preserving American access for The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under lic service. It is a terrible loss for the American farmers and ranchers, the the previous order, the time until noon people of our community and a terrible United States-Mexico-Canada Agree- is equally divided. loss for our Nation. The Senator from Maryland. Our prayers go out to Maya ment makes a number of improve- ments to the status quo. Of particular REMEMBERING ELIJAH CUMMINGS Rockeymoore Cummings and his fam- interest to South Dakota are the Mr. CARDIN. Madam President, as ily in this incredibly difficult time. We agreement’s dairy provisions. If you the senior Senator from Maryland, I will commit ourselves to carrying on drive the I–29 corridor north of Brook- want to comment on the remarks by the legacy of a great American, our ings, SD, you can see firsthand the Leader SCHUMER about the great loss friend ELIJAH CUMMINGS. we had that we learned about early With that, I yield the floor. major dairy expansion South Dakota this morning—the death of Congress- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- has experienced over the past several years. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agree- man ELIJAH CUMMINGS. I found out jority whip. ment will preserve U.S. dairy farmers’ about this as I awoke this morning. It Mr. THUNE. Madam President, be- role as a key dairy supplier to Mexico, is a sad day for Baltimore, for Mary- fore I begin, I, too, want to join with and it will substantially expand mar- land, and for our country. my colleagues who have preceded me Two days ago, I had a chance to talk and just say how sad I was to hear of ket access in Canada. The U.S. Inter- national Trade Commission estimates with Maya Rockeymoore Cummings, the death of ELIJAH CUMMINGS. We that the agreement will boost U.S. Congressman CUMMINGS’ wife, to in- joined the House together. He got there dairy exports by more than $277 mil- quire as to how the Congressman was a little before I did in a special election in 1996. I came in January of 1997. I al- lion. doing. She explained to me that he was The agreement will also expand mar- ways admired his fire and his dedica- still in the hospital but he was using ket access for U.S. poultry and egg pro- tion. He was a fierce advocate for his every ounce of energy he had to carry ducers. It will make it easier for pro- out his responsibilities as chairman of constituents and for the causes he be- ducers to export wheat to Canada and the Oversight Committee and as a lieved in. The House will be a lesser much more. Member of the House of Representa- place for his absence. I have just focused on the benefits for tives. We all know that he used his en- Our prayers are with his family and farmers. In fact, the United States- ergy every day on behalf of the people all those who had the opportunity to Mexico-Canada Agreement will benefit he represented. know him, his constituents, those he almost every sector of our economy, Our Nation has lost one of the great represented in Baltimore and the State from the automobile industry to dig- champions for social justice. What a of Maryland who are going to mourn ital trade and e-commerce. It will cre- powerful voice he was for those whose his loss today and miss his presence for ate 176,000 jobs, and it will raise wages voices would otherwise not have been many, many days in the future. for workers. heard. It is a great loss. It is a great UNITED STATES-MEXICO-CANADA TRADE Given the major benefits not only for loss for the people of Baltimore—his AGREEMENT farmers but for the economy as a record of accomplishment on behalf of Madam President, farmers and ranch- whole, why hasn’t Congress passed this our city and our region is well known— ers have gotten some good news on the agreement yet? That is a good ques- and it is a personal loss for me. trade front in recent weeks with the tion, and the answer really is quite I first got to know ELIJAH CUMMINGS signing of a trade deal with Japan. simple. By law, the House of Rep- when he was elected to the Maryland U.S. farmers depend on access to the resentatives has to take up the agree- General Assembly. I was speaker of the Japanese market. It is the fourth larg- ment first, but the House has unfortu- house. I recognized that here was a per- est market for U.S. agricultural pro- nately been more focused on political son coming in with incredible talent. I ducers. This agreement will remove theater of late than on collaborating gave him an opportunity to use that barriers to the sale of a variety of prod- on measures that would actually help talent, and he used it so effectively on ucts, from cheese to sweet corn, beef, American families, and unfortunately behalf of the people of his district as a pork, and wheat. it doesn’t look like that is going to member of the Maryland General As- While this is very good news for change. sembly. farmers and ranchers, we have a lot I heard the Democratic leader down Congressman CUMMINGS and I have a more work to do on the trade front to here earlier sort of attacking the cur- lot in common. We both attended the help our ag community and to increase rent administration for not doing same public high school in Baltimore demand for American agricultural enough on this or that. Well, the fact City, Baltimore City College High products around the world, and we is, if you look at the economic statis- School—different years. He graduated should start by passing the United tics over the past couple of years, they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.006 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5860 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 are pretty remarkable. Unemployment try. So it begs the question as to why, I yield the floor. is at a historically low rate—31⁄2 per- then, another step that we could take The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- cent. Those are numbers we haven’t on that road to economic progress ator from Wyoming. seen in a very long time—about 50 hasn’t been taken yet. Why, 320 days DEFENSE SPENDING BILL years, as a matter of fact. The number after the President signed the U.S.- Mr. BARRASSO. Madam President, I of jobs that have been created since the Canada-Mexico Free Trade Agreement, come to the floor today to discuss the President took office is about 6.4 mil- has that not been taken up and passed current partisan blockade. It is a lion jobs. In fact—a very important by the House of Representatives? I blockade of critical military funding data point—the number of people look- would argue that if they would take for our troops at home and abroad. ing for work juxtaposed against the that up and send it to the Senate, we Last month, Senate Democrats number of job openings in our econ- would vote on it here. We would pass blocked a key vote on the defense omy—for the 17th month in a row, we it. We would send it to the President. spending bill. We need to pass this bill have more jobs available—about 7.3 He would sign it into law, and farmers to fully fund the Defense Department. million jobs available—than those peo- and ranchers in places like South Da- By blocking the bill, Democrats are de- ple looking for work—about 5.9 million kota and other agricultural States nying America’s troops the pay raises people. That is a historically sort of across this country would get the ben- that they have earned and that they unprecedented, if you will, statistic. efit from that. And it is not just farm- deserve. So if you look at the overall econ- ers and ranchers. As I mentioned ear- To add insult to injury, both parties omy, things are in the right place. lier, it is pretty much every sector of in both Houses agreed a couple of They are moving in the right direction. our economy. It is manufacturing. It is months ago to give the troops this Wages are up—the highest level in a digital. raise. We did it more than 2 months decade. The American people’s pocket- There are benefits in this trade deal ago. In fact, it was part of the bipar- books, the things they care about, the that translate into a stronger, more ro- tisan budget deal that was signed in things they talk about over the kitch- bust economy that will keep this ex- August. en table in terms of their wages, their pansion going forward and will con- By moving the Defense spending bill, jobs, their prospects, their certainty tinue to create these good-paying jobs Republicans are keeping their promises about the future—those things have all and higher wages and create that bet- to our all-volunteer American force. improved over the past couple of years ter standard of living and quality of Still, Democrats have broken their because of the policies this administra- life for people in this country. The rea- promise to the troops. tion has put in place, coupled with the son it hasn’t moved is because it is up Why on Earth would the Democrats work this Congress has done to try to to the House of Representatives. They want to play political games with the create conditions that are favorable to have all the control on this. The paychecks of our troops? Under the economic growth. Speaker of the House can move this harshest conditions, these brave men What does that mean? Well, his tax whenever she wants to. What they are and women defend our cherished free- policy. We have cut tax rates for indi- trying to do now is renegotiate the doms 365 days a year. America’s serv- viduals and families. We have cut tax deal all over again. icemembers—our servicemembers— rates for small businesses that are try- Unfortunately, they are very much help keep us safe. They keep us strong, ing to expand. We allowed them to ac- obsessed at the moment with other and they keep us, as a Nation, pros- celerate their cost recovery. Those are types of activities in the House. If you perous. Without question, they deserve both key incentives when it comes to look at what is happening over there our full support, and that support investment and expansion. And we right now, it doesn’t look like that is should be bipartisan. Why it isn’t right have seen the results of that. going to change anytime soon. With now is beyond me. We have seen regulatory changes even the Speaker of the House joining Recently, I had the privilege of vis- made by the administration—in some the far left’s now impeachment cru- iting Wyoming troops, our Wyoming cases cooperating and coupled with the sade, I don’t think it is likely that National Guard. We have a very large steps we have taken here in the Con- Democrats are going to wake up one deployment, our largest in 10 years. gress—that have lessened the burden morning and decide they should spend They are serving in Kuwait, in the for businesses that are trying to invest less time on partisan politics and more United Arab Emirates, and in Kosovo. and grow and expand and create more time working with Republicans to pass We have troop members serving, as jobs. real solutions for the American people. well, in Afghanistan. If you look at the energy changes, But I do hope they will not destroy this We have about 1,500 members in the energy policy, we have become energy trade agreement. There are thousands Wyoming National Guard, and, right independent—something that a decade of farmers in my State of South Da- now, about 400 of them are serving ago or two decades ago, nobody ever kota and around the country who are overseas. They are from towns like anticipated was possible. As a nation, waiting for the relief that the United Casper, Cheyenne, Guernsey, Laramie, we are now actually an exporter of en- States-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Sheridan, Lovell, Moorcroft, ergy—a remarkable change over a Agreement would bring. Wheatland, and brothers from Sheridan short period of time. I would argue Irrespective of what the distractions and Casper. I met with all of them. that is largely due to changes in policy are in the House of Representatives at Some 370 Wyoming Guard members are that have enabled and encouraged that the moment and much of the partisan currently serving in Afghanistan, the kind of investment in energy, regu- rush toward impeachment that is un- Middle East, and in Europe. It is our latory changes that have lessened the derway there, I hope they will figure largest deployment in a decade. regulatory burden and made it less ex- out a way to multitask and will do I was honored to spend time with pensive and less difficult to create jobs what they should have done a long these dedicated servicemembers from in this country rather than more ex- time ago, and that is to pick up this my home State. First, I visited the pensive and more difficult, which is free-trade deal, pass it through the 115th Field Artillery Brigade Forward what we particularly saw in the past House of Representatives, send it to in the United Arab Emirates. It is in administration, and lowered the tax the U.S. Senate, where we can pass it, the desert across from the Strait of burden in a way that provides incen- and send it to the President, where it Hormuz. From there, I traveled to Ku- tives for people to invest, to grow their can be signed into law, and the Amer- wait to meet with our 2nd Battalion, company, to pay better wages, and to ican people can continue to see the 300th Field Artillery. My father-in-law, add jobs. benefits of policies that are good for Bob Brown, was a member of this group Those are the types of policy changes this economy, that will create more during Korea. He had also served in that have been made that have resulted growth in our country, faster growth in World War II, as I know, Mr. President, in the economic data and statistics we our economy, better paying jobs, and a your father was part of the D-day inva- are looking at today. They are not just better quality of life for people not just sion. I finished visiting with the troops data and statistics; they are actually in South Dakota but all across Amer- in Kosovo, the C Company, 1st Bat- being felt by people across this coun- ica. talion, 297th Infantry Regiment in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.007 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5861 Kosovo, up near the Serbian border. In to keep us safe. One thing is crystal tional authority. His emergency dec- service to our country, these soldiers clear from my visit: The best way to laration is an exercise of power that is now find themselves far from home, honor our troops is to honor our com- just not his under the Constitution. and we owe it to them to give them the mitments to them. Our system of checks and balances raise that they have earned and that So let’s give these men and women in only works if each branch has the will they deserve. uniform the raise that they have to check the other branch if there is You know, before I left, I gave every earned, that they deserve, that they encroachment. We have seen some good one of our soldiers a challenge coin. It are entitled to, and let’s give our bipartisan pushback, but this is the is a challenge coin for me, as a Sen- troops the state-of-the-art tools they point where we need more of that. It is ator, and it is something I learned need to protect the American people in up to Congress, the legislative branch, about through the military. It is some- a dangerous world. It is time for Demo- to guard our constitutional authority thing you give to somebody for cama- crats to lift their hold on this blockade and to exercise the will to do so. raderie and a job well done. The coin that they have had on our Defense The President has now vetoed shows the Wyoming iconic cowboy sit- funding bill. We must work together, in Congress’s resolution, and it is up to ting on a bucking bronco. I gave it to a bipartisan way, to complete the reg- this body to assert our constitutional each one of them saying: You are from ular Defense appropriations process authority and override that veto. Not Wyoming, you are a cowboy, and cow- and fully fund our military, as our Na- only is a fundamental constitutional boys never quit and never complain, tion demands and our troops certainly principle at stake, but the President’s and neither will the U.S. military. deserve. emergency declaration has real life im- So when it comes to a raise, they are I yield the floor. pacts—impacts to our national secu- not quitting, and they are not com- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. rity and impacts to the 23 States whose plaining. It seems to me that it is the SCOTT of Florida). The Senator from projects are now gone. Democrats who have quit. The Demo- New Mexico. My home State of New Mexico is one crats have quit. They have gone back BORDER SECURITY of those 23 States. We are home to two on their word to approve the pay raise Mr. UDALL. Mr. President, last military bases that will be hit by the that they approved a couple of months month, both the Senate and the House President’s raid on military construc- ago and now are blocking us moving of Representatives resolved, on a bipar- tion projects to fund his wall. forward with this piece of legislation. tisan basis, to terminate the Presi- Scuttled is an $85 million project at You know, the troops I met invited dent’s declaration of a national emer- Holloman Air Force Base that would the cowboy spirit. They love to see it. gency along our southern border. I was improve drone pilot training facilities They don’t need to see it for long be- proud to lead the charge before this that are aging, have sinkholes, and bat cause they have a lot to do. They are body to terminate that declaration—a infestation. Training our military to working 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, declaration the President is using to pilot drones is mission critical in this and 365 days a year. They wanted to raid congressionally appropriated mili- day and age. The Air Force is battling talk about what is happening at home. tary construction funds to build this a shortage of these pilots. They wanted to talk about Wyoming border wall. Plain and simple, the At White Sands Missile Range, a $40 football. They wanted to talk about President’s emergency declaration is million project designed to replace an the hunting season. They wanted to an end-run around Congress’s spending aging and fire-damaged information talk about the weather at home, where powers and the Constitution. systems facility has been cut. This we have already had snow. The day I Last week, a Federal district judge project was to prepare the range to was in one of the locations, it was 108 agreed and concluded that the Presi- take on the next generation of missiles degrees, and the heat index was higher dent’s declaration is ‘‘unlawful.’’ Arti- and weapons testing, including future than that, and they are, of course, in cle I, section 9, of the Constitution hypersonic testing. full uniform. They are there doing the could not be clearer. It reads: ‘‘No Twenty-two other States are losing job of keeping us safe and keeping us Money shall be drawn from the Treas- military construction projects, from free, and they deserve the pay raise ury, but in Consequence of Appropria- Alabama to Arizona, North Carolina to that they have earned. tions made by Law. . . .’’ Texas, and Maine to Florida. In Utah, They are on the frontlines. They are The Founders gave Congress the the Air Force has sought a new control defending our freedoms. They are doing power to appropriate—the power of the center at Hill Air Force Base to replace it every day. purse. This is one of the most con- ‘‘structurally deficient’’ and dilapi- I had a meal with them, as you see sequential powers. Congress has this dated World War II-era warehouses for here right now, visiting with these men power to make sure that decisions mission control. In Louisiana, the Air and women. It is a time for camara- about how public dollars are spent have National Guard sought to replace an derie. We talked about the challenges widespread support and are not the aircraft parking ramp in a New Orleans they are facing overseas. product of an extreme minority, let facility that exposes the public to an I toured each of their bases. They alone one man. ‘‘unacceptable risk’’ of being impacted know that the world is a very dan- Our power to appropriate is part of by an explosive accident. gerous place in which they are living the system of checks and balances In Indiana, Army servicemembers and serving, and they know what is built into our Constitution. The have worked in violation of safety happening in the threats to Iran, which Founders made sure that the three standards for handling explosives and to this group was only a little over 100 branches of government exercised their need additional space for munitions. In miles away, across the Strait of own separate and limited powers, and Kentucky, the military seeks to repair Hormuz. they made sure that no one branch and ‘‘substandard, deficient, inadequate, Look, clearly, the best way to pro- no one person could exercise too much and undersized facilities’’ at a middle tect Americans at home is to keep up power, especially over the use of tax- school at Fort Campbell that ‘‘impair the pressure on our enemies abroad. payer money. the overall education program’’ for the Our presence there is restraining evil The President’s emergency declara- children of servicemembers. in the region. That is why our troops tion is an unconstitutional power grab. Not only is New Mexico one of the need our full support, and they need it Congress has not fully funded his re- States hit by the President’s canceling right now. They shouldn’t be placed at quests for border wall funding. We set important military construction a point where they have to tolerate and different budget priorities. Our prior- projects, but we are one of four States wait for the Democrats to come back ities include the $3.6 billion worth of that borders Mexico. We are ground to the table and come to an agreement 127 military construction projects zero for the President’s border wall and that they had reached and made prom- across 23 States, 3 Territories, and 20 the havoc it will wreak on our commu- ises on earlier this year. countries, and the President canceled nities, our way of life, the local econo- With growing threats from abroad, them. mies, landowners, and the environ- the Defense funding bill delivers crit- But this President will not accept ment. New Mexico and Mexico share a ical resources that our military needs Congress’s judgment or our constitu- 180-mile border. This border passes

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The De- clean energy that, in my view, is clear- communities along the border and near partment of the Interior is supposed to ly not affordable. the border, including our second larg- protect our natural resources, not en- What the new rule would do would be est city, Las Cruces, 45 minutes from danger them with a border wall that to look at individual sources of energy Mexico. will compromise their ecological value, and decide from a selection of things We have two ports of entry—in Co- destroy habitat connectivity, and harm that can be done, what can be done at lumbus and Santa Teresa—that are wildlife. those individual sources. bustling with commerce, international The President’s wall and his divisive I was on this floor many times talk- trade, and hundreds who cross the bor- rhetoric toward immigrants is deeply ing about this rule prior to the 2016 der daily to visit family and friends, to offensive to New Mexicans. We have elections. It had been held in abeyance go to school, and to shop. strong family, cultural, and economic by courts that said, no, it went too far. I know our border communities. I can ties to Mexico. We are a proud multi- The administration didn’t have the tell you for a fact, there is no justifica- cultural State. Our diversity does not ability to do what they were trying to tion for the diversion of military con- divide us; it defines us. It is our do. When I was on the floor all those struction funding away from our troops strength. times talking about what this rule and to this wall. This body holds the power of the would do to our State and our economy Now, I support smart border security purse, not the President. Now is the and similar things all over the country, and have voted many times to fund time to affirm this constitutional what I said was, the next time you smart investment. New Mexico knows power and affirm the appropriations write your utility check, just write it what real border security is: well-fund- decisions we have made for our own out of your checkbook again because, ed, well-trained, adequate resources; States and the Nation. within a decade, you would be paying mobile assets; surveillance technology We should override the President’s twice as much in Missouri for utilities combined with well-staffed ports of veto and make sure that legitimate na- as you are paying right now. The cost entry that welcome commerce, visi- tional security interests are protected would have gone up, and it would have tors, and also asylum-seekers seeking by seeing that the 127 military con- happened quickly. Thankfully, President Trump and the refuge from horrific persecution. struction projects go forward on sched- administration—with the support, The President’s wall, at upward of $25 ule. frankly, I believe, today, of Senate Re- million per mile, is not a smart invest- I yield the floor. ment. It is antiquated and is not de- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- publicans—will have charted a new course resulting in huge strides toward signed for today’s challenges. This ator from Missouri. American energy independence. We are wasteful approach contrasts to the Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, the next doing that on other fronts. In fact, Sep- sound investment we made in the Co- vote, the vote we will take in less than tember and August were the first 2 lumbus port of entry. Commerce, per- an hour, is a vote that would exercise months in 37 years that we have been a sonal vehicle traffic, and foot traffic the Congressional Review Act, of which net exporter of energy, not an importer have increased exponentially over the I am a supporter. The idea that we of energy. Energy self-sufficiency is years. Customs and Border Protection should use the Congressional Review important, particularly when there is needed more secure facilities. We Act is a good thing for us to look at an all-of-the-above strategy with oil, pushed to expand and update this New what any administration does and de- natural gas, nuclear, wind, and solar as termine if that is the right way to go. Mexico port. For $90 million, we great- a part of the portfolio of energy that Today, I certainly intend to vote to ly enhanced border security and added needs to grow, but doesn’t need to grow maintain the position that the admin- to economic growth. Now, that is a in a way that cripples American fami- istration has had on the affordable wise investment of taxpayer dollars. lies when they try to pay their bills or In New Mexico, we are concerned clean energy rule. This is a rule that when they try to get a job. To become about the land grab underway by this will have a very positive impact on our a net exporter of energy, we have done State, just like the rule that it re- administration. They are pushing to all those things while we were still cut- places would have a very negative im- expropriate private lands for the Presi- ting emissions. Carbon dioxide emis- dent’s wall, and there are lots of land- pact. We are in the top five coal-using sions in the power industry are down 28 owners who don’t want their lands cut States for energy in our State. percent since 2005, without the Clean With the Obama administration’s in half or made unusable. Power Plan ever having gone into ef- rule, the massive energy regulations We can’t get answers from the ad- fect. ministration about what they are would have imposed billions of dollars The EPA’s Affordable Clean Energy doing, and so Senator HEINRICH and I, in compliance costs that would have Rule strikes exactly the right bal- along with Senator SCHUMER and Sen- been passed along every single time ance—in my view and, I believe, today ator DURBIN, requested the Govern- that someone harvests a crop, flips on in the view of a majority of my col- ment Accountability Office to inves- a light switch, shops for groceries, or leagues—between reducing emissions tigate the number of citizens who could walks into the door at work. Under the and ensuring that Americans can still have their land seized, the cost of prop- Obama-era rules, families in Missouri continue to have access to reliable, af- erty acquisitions, and the time it will would have faced double-digit utility fordable energy. take. I am pleased the GAO has opened price increases; in fact, the average For many families, the cost of energy an inquiry. Not only is there concern Missourian’s average utility rate would is one of the biggest items to think that the Trump administration will have doubled in approximately a dec- about when they think about their skirt eminent domain laws, but there ade. A vote for this Congress review act budget. In fact, for many families, is a real threat that environmental would put that rule into effect, as op- there is not much to think about. You laws will be tossed out the window in posed to the rule that replaces it. pay whatever you are paying for your the administration’s rush to fulfill the These rules always have good titles. housing, then you pay your utility bill, President’s campaign promise to build The current rule that the Trump ad- and you see what is left over. The lux- 500 miles of wall. ministration has put into place, the Af- ury of having a technical budget with The wall would run through hundreds fordable Clean Energy Rule, would re- how you are going to do all the things of miles of untouched, pristine lands place the clean power rule. That is sig- your family would like to do doesn’t that are home to wildlife like antelope, nificant. They both propose to do the happen all too often now. It would hap- deer, and javelina. A wall will tear up same thing. One rule states they will pen much less often if the utility bills these lands and their vegetation, cause have clean power; the other rule states are twice what they are today. erosion and flooding, and cut off migra- it will have clean energy. The dif- The action we take here today, sup- tory paths for wildlife. ference in the title is actually the dif- porting the affordable energy rule and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.010 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5863 walking away from the clean power and why months ago I, too, called on and said and the impact their actions rule, will make a difference for those the House to open an inquiry to inves- can have on our elections, our democ- families. It makes a difference in the tigate the President’s deeply dis- racy, and the future of this country. utility bill at home, and it makes a dif- tressing actions because, for me and for I sat in this Chamber as a juror in an ference in the utility bill at work. Lots so many other people across the coun- impeachment trial before. It was a of jobs simply just don’t work at twice try, this is not about partisan politics deeply serious undertaking, and one the cost of today’s utility bills. It is a or any politics. This is about maintain- each Member took seriously before ren- foolish rule and has been properly re- ing our Nation’s security and defending dering a decision. That is the same se- placed with a rule that makes sense. I the rule of law. It is about nothing less riousness that is required in this mo- urge my colleagues to maintain the than the future of our democracy. Let ment at this crossroad. If and when the rule we are headed to, rather than the me be clear: Because of President House elects to accuse the President of one we are running away from. Trump, all of this is on the line. That an impeachable offense or offenses, the I yield the floor. is how serious this is. Senate right here will host the trial, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- I have news for my Republican col- and as Senators, we will all serve as ju- ator from Washington. leagues: As much as you would like to rors. If and when that time comes, I Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I ask stay silent on this, it is not an option. know I will approach it seriously, and unanimous consent to speak as in Our forefathers warned us against the I deeply hope each of my colleagues morning business. power of foreign interference to under- will, as well. Each of us will have to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without mine the foundations of our democ- put aside every other consideration be- objection, it is so ordered. racy, and their cautions echo as clearly yond the facts and focus solely on pre- TRUMP ADMINISTRATION and as strongly today as they did more serving the integrity of our democracy Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I come than 200 years ago. and upholding our solemn obligation to to the floor today because our Nation As Members of Congress, as rep- defend the Constitution. History will is at a crossroads that strikes at the resentatives of the American people, record where we all stand. heart of our democracy. The increas- we took an oath to defend our Nation’s I yield the floor. ingly outrageous actions of this Presi- security and our democracy. That is The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- dent and his administration have why the Constitution gives authority ator from Connecticut. brought us to this moment where we, to Congress and the immense responsi- Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, as a nation, must make a decision bility to provide oversight of the Presi- there is very little question today that about who we are, what we stand for, dent’s actions. Based just on what we our democracy is under attack. The and what kind of behavior we will know, it would be a dereliction of duty threat is not only from outside our allow at the highest levels of our gov- for Congress not to investigate the country but from within with the ernment. grave threats to our country’s safety threat to our rule of law, our basic val- As we continue down this road paved and to our democratic institutions. ues, and our democratic institutions. by the President’s reckless actions and If President Trump and his adminis- From outside the country, that his complete disregard for our Nation’s tration have nothing to hide, they threat is reaffirmed by the Senate In- laws and democratic norms, I want to should stop obstructing. Let Congress telligence Committee, which recently take a moment to step back and talk do its job and find the facts. Further- released a bipartisan report offering a about how we got here and how much is more, if Congress fails to investigate sobering warning of fresh signs of in- truly at stake for our country and our these issues, it would set its own dan- terference by Russia and other foreign democracy if we don’t get this right. gerous new precedent, essentially actors in the upcoming election. Let’s start by considering what we green-lighting this President’s uneth- The fact is that the lights are flash- know for sure. The President has re- ical behavior and his attacks against ing red. The warning has come to us peatedly sought foreign interference in our democratic institutions for future from multiple sources. Our intelligence our elections, which we should all find generations of our Nation’s leaders. community has warned us. The FBI has appalling. We know that President That is a frightening notion. warned us. Our national security pro- Trump and his associates pressed the We are now at the crossroads, and we fessionals have warned us. Still, the Ukrainian Government to meddle in have to make a decision. Over the com- majority leader has refused to permit our democratic process, pushing them ing weeks, the actions of the House and us a vote on commonsense measures to launch an investigation without possibly each individual in this body that will better guarantee election se- basis into the President’s political op- will in large part determine which path curity. ponents in an effort to help his elec- we take. Will we allow foreign actors We need to move forward on these tion. to interfere in our elections and under- measures that safeguard our democ- We know that he has made overtures mine our security or not? Will we stand racy from outside interference—cyber to China—out in the open—to do the by it and allow this President and per- attack and social disinformation. And, same. This is important. We don’t have haps future Presidents to ignore our of course, I have sponsored some of to take anyone else’s word for it. We Constitution and mangle our demo- these bills. Many of them are bipar- saw President Trump’s call record with cratic norms or not? Will we be a na- tisan. We can move forward with that the Ukrainian President, and we all tion of laws or not? effort even as we confront the chal- heard the President and his associates I believe that this country is a coun- lenge and the obligation, which we admit to the surreptitious actions from try of laws, that our elections must be must do in the ongoing impeachment their own lips on camera. completely free from foreign inter- proceedings. These facts are indisputable and ference, and that every elected official What saddens and angers me is that can’t be spun. President Trump and his should ensure that these fundamental in the midst of this crisis and the circle of friends have been clear about principles come before party or par- threat from outside our Nation from their actions and their intentions, and tisanship as this process moves for- Russia and other countries, our Com- it is clear they are unacceptable, but ward. mander in Chief has essentially refused even more seriously, there are still There are other priorities Congress to believe that threat exists. He has in many questions about the extent of needs to focus on, important work we fact and in effect denied that there is President Trump and his associates’ have to continue doing to secure our any threat. That is what happened actions and their potential impact on elections, which is all the more para- when the President used the power and our democracy, questions for which the mount given this President’s actions. authority of the Oval Office to pressure American people undoubtedly deserve We will, of course, continue, as well, a foreign leader, President Zelensky of answers. our efforts to lower healthcare costs Ukraine, to investigate a political op- That is why the House is right to and address the climate crisis and the ponent, Joe Biden. This action is not begin impeachment proceedings to de- epidemic of gun violence and more, but only a breach of his oath of office and termine if President Trump has com- we cannot ignore what President his constitutional duty, it is unpatri- mitted high crimes and misdemeanors, Trump and his associates have done otic, immoral, criminal, and it is a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.012 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5864 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 threat to our national security be- warned that the Russians are still ac- Act. This bill would render invalid or cause, again, it invites interference. In tively trying to interfere in our elec- unenforceable any arbitration agree- fact, it pressures interference in our tion. But President Trump just said ment between workers and consumers democracy. It validates and strength- that if offered foreign assistance, ‘‘I’d and corporations that governs employ- ens Vladimir Putin, not this Nation. take it.’’ ment, civil rights, consumer, or anti- That is why the impeachment in- Congress must pass this Duty to Re- trust disputes. It has an exception for quiry is being conducted by the House port Act, along with other common- those arbitration agreements that are and why it is so important. Impeach- sense measures that support election the product of real collective bar- ment is not a remedy we take lightly security. Not only can we do it while gaining agreements. It is hardly a rad- or happily; it is a serious, last-resort we are considering impeachment, we ical proposal; it is a reform to give remedy for the worst abuses of power must do it because the impeachment Americans access to the justice system and an unchecked, rogue President who offense, in fact, involves foreign inter- again. Yet Senator MCCONNELL regret- cannot be held accountable in any ference that these election security tably has blocked this bill and others other way. But the President has given measures would help to stop. from a vote. Senator MCCONNELL said: us no choice. He may not be upholding Likewise, I want to mention gun vio- ‘‘As long as I am majority leader of the his oath of office, but we must uphold lence protection. Senator GRAHAM and Senate, I get to set the agenda.’’ Mean- ours. I and others in this body have worked while, corporations are cheating work- The most powerful proof here comes hard over months on negotiating emer- ers, consumers, children, and families from the words of the President him- gency risk protection order legislation. out of their day in court. self in that July 25 conversation. There It could be passed along with back- We need to move forward on these is no Member of this body who is unfa- ground checks, and the two should go matters: gun violence protection, elec- miliar with those words inviting, solic- together. tion security, the FAIR Act. We can do iting, in fact extorting the President of The ball is in the White House’s it because America wants it. We will go a foreign nation to interfere in our de- court. The President has shifted back to our constituents in this next mocracy. He involved officials at the ground one way and the other, unpre- election, and my colleagues who will highest level who joined in trying to dictably and uncertainly, but I feel we face them will be asked: What have you cover it up, who now have a whistle- can muster a consensus here. Even as done? We can answer with real action if blower complaint, as well as those call we consider impeachment, we can we come together and move forward. notes between President Trump and move forward on a comprehensive set I yield the floor. President Zelensky that repeat the of measures that would help make The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- President’s own words. The transcript America safer. ator from North Dakota. of that call is truly chilling and fright- My goal, eventually, is to save as S.J. RES. 53 ening almost beyond words. many lives as possible and as quickly Mr. CRAMER. Mr. President, before When Mr. Zelensky mentioned that as possible through those kinds of we vote, I want to take a few minutes Ukraine was ‘‘ready to buy more Jave- measures that would include not only to express my strong opposition to lins from the United States for defense background checks made universal and what our colleagues on the other side purposes,’’ President Trump responded emergency risk protection orders of the aisle are doing with their Con- with, ‘‘I would like you to do us a favor passed by States with the incentives gressional Review Act resolution. They though.’’ That is a quote: ‘‘I would like we would provide with this bill but also are asking the United States to give up you to do us a favor though.’’ And the a ban on assault weapons and safe stor- a very good, responsible, and Afford- favor was, of course, interference in age in honor of Ethan Song, a young able Clean Energy Plan and replace it our election. man who was killed in Guilford, CT, be- with the old, Obama-era, illegal, and That kind of invitation emboldens cause of improper storage of a gun that unconstitutional Clean Power Plan. not only the President of Ukraine but he and a friend were playing with. Prior to being elected to Congress, I every other autocrat and tyrant who They would include a ban on high-ca- spent nearly 10 years in North Dakota might seek similarly to interfere. Let pacity magazines and a reversal of the as an energy regulator and oversaw us remember that what the Founders sweetheart deal that gave the gun both economic and environmental poli- feared most was exactly that kind of manufacturers near-complete immu- cies and regulations in our State. I interference, whether it was from the nity. These commonsense measures can know something of this issue. For the imperial powers that we had just be done even as we consider impeach- American people, a fully implemented fought and successfully won our free- ment. Obama-era Clean Power Plan would re- dom or dictators like Vladimir Putin Likewise, to take another guarantee sult in much higher electricity costs, or other nations that will be of our values and the rule of law, forced less money in their pockets, fewer well- emboldened to interfere. arbitration clauses cause harm to mil- paying jobs, and just a lot less freedom. My Republican colleagues’ silence lions of Americans every year. These Across the country, their plan would will not age well. Not only are they un- clauses are often tucked into the fine reduce household spending by $79 bil- willing to stand up to this President’s print of lengthy consumer contracts lion. It would increase electricity abuses and threats to our democracy, and employee handbooks, with workers prices in my State of North Dakota by the majority leader has refused to put and consumers having no meaningful 43 percent, and it would cost over those bills on the floor. He has outright choice but to consent to the terms. 125,000 jobs over the next decade. refused to give us a vote on security These forced arbitration clauses, like Perhaps one of the most disturbing legislation. that immunity for the gun manufac- things about the Clean Power Plan My bill, the duty to report bill, would turers, denies basic justice. They deny that was presented by the Obama ad- require campaigns, candidates, and Americans their day in court, and they ministration—one of the reasons, family members to immediately report deny public accountability. Consumers frankly, that it was deemed to be un- to the FBI and Federal Election Com- and workers are forced into unfair arbi- constitutional and illegal and had a mission any offers of illegal foreign as- tration clauses where corporations can stay put on it by the U.S. Supreme sistance. It codifies into law what is al- write the rules. They write the rules. Court—was that in my State, under the ready a moral duty and a patriotic Everything can be done in secret, and proposed rule, we had a CO2 reduction duty. It is basic common sense. The there is no meaningful judicial rebuke. target of 11 percent. Yet, in the classic law already forbids soliciting and ac- In many cases, these clauses are paired bait-and-switch maneuver, the final cepting that kind of foreign assistance with provisions that block Americans rule increased that 11 percent by 400 during a campaign; this measure, very who have suffered similar harm from percent. The 11 percent, while illegal, simply, would require it to be reported. banding together in seeking account- was doable, but the 400 percent was ri- I have told this body—and I have re- ability together in a class action law- diculous. peated it numerous times—that when suit. So make no mistake, right now, here FBI Director Wray came before the At the start of this Congress, 34 Sen- in the U.S. Senate, the Democrats are Senate Judiciary Committee, he ators joined me in sponsoring the FAIR asking us to vote to eliminate good

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.015 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5865 jobs, to raise the cost of living, and to We cannot let this happen today, and portance of our partnerships and our take more money out of the pockets of I urge my colleagues to join me in vot- willingness to lead in times of crisis. the American people. For what? The ing no. As we drove down the roads, we saw United States does not need an uncon- I yield the floor. kids flashing victory signs at our stitutional Federal power grab, like The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- troops. When we were in the market- this one, in order to lead the world in ator from New Hampshire. place, we had people come out and tell reducing our emissions. In fact, we al- Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, I ask us how relieved they were that the ready do. Emissions have been declin- unanimous consent to speak before the United States was there to help ensure ing in the United States for nearly 50 vote. that peace was being kept. We saw years. We don’t need to apologize for The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there local governance taking place on the our action or inaction. In fact, we need objection? ground. to start honoring the innovators who Without objection, it is so ordered. So it is incredibly difficult now to see have made these reductions possible in TURKEY AND SYRIA images coming out of Manbij and the the first place. We should be encour- Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, I rise other places we visited in northeastern aging them and incentivizing them to to express my outrage with regard to Syria. The Syrian regime has already continue their work in order to pave President Trump’s decision to with- moved troops back into this region, the way for responsible energy produc- draw U.S. troops from northeast Syria. and Turkey’s proxies, who are seem- tion that will be used for generations This decision is dangerous, premature, ingly undeterred by the Syrian pres- to come not just here in the United and wholly inconsistent with what the ence, continue to move into the city of States but across the world. facts on the ground in Syria and the Manbij with heavily armed vehicles. In the context of several issues, I advice from everyone—from our dip- Meanwhile, Russia has spent the last often speak about needing to follow a lomats to our military advisers. few days touring and posting videos of Federalist model, the cooperative fed- In just 1 week, President Trump has abandoned, taxpayer-funded U.S. bases. eralism that our Founders envisioned managed to undo 5 years of hard-fought What is taking place in Manbij and in when they created the States. That is a stability in northeast Syria. Just 1 so many cities across northeast Syria model of State control, with Governors week ago, over 10,000 ISIS fighters, in- is an insult to the thousands of Amer- being in charge, not Presidents. This is cluding high-value prisoners who tar- ican servicemembers who have risked under the umbrella, of course, of good geted American victims, were secured their lives to help stabilize that region Federal oversight and, of course, some in prisons throughout northeast Syria. and support the fight against ISIS, and authority. Yet States need to have pri- We face, today, a very different pic- it could have all been avoided. macy. Put those who are closest to the ture. Several ISIS prisons are already This really began in December of 2018 people in charge, give them the author- unmanned as a result of Turkey’s in- when the President said he planned to ity and the resources they need, and cursion, and it is estimated that over withdraw troops from Syria. That was this model will produce the best results 100 ISIS prisoners have been released after holding up for months the sta- nearly every time, if not every time. already. We don’t know what will hap- bilization dollars that could have been The Obama era’s Clean Power Plan is pen in those other detention centers used to make it very clear that we exactly the opposite of that. It is a that have housed ISIS prisoners. were committed to the region—to en- Federal power grab that the States One week ago, a limited U.S. troop suring that ISIS wouldn’t rebuild there have rejected and, yes, that the Su- presence of 1,000 Special Forces sta- and that there would be stability in preme Court has ruled a stay on. bilized a population that was once ter- northeastern Syria. We were com- rorized by the Syrian regime and later By stark contrast, the affordable mitted to making sure the United by ISIS. These forces secured a region clean energy rule that has been put for- States was at the table when Russia of Syria that controls over two-thirds ward by the Trump administration, and Iran and Assad moved in and of Syria’s natural resources. American which is the rule the Democrats want carved up Syria. troops have, today, either left or are to overturn today in favor of the un- I ask unanimous to have printed in preparing to leave this area, and the constitutional plan that hurts the the RECORD the recommendations on Syrian regime is moving in. American people, is a win for North the best way forward in Syria that Russian troops have moved into U.S. were issued last month by the bipar- Dakota and for States across the coun- military bases, and over 160,000 Syrian try. It respects the law and restores the tisan Syria Study Group, which I civilians have already fled their homes helped to create. proper balance between States and the as a result of the spike in violence that Federal Government. It also promotes There being no objection, the mate- has been instigated by Turkey. It is so rial was ordered to be printed in the energy security. Maybe one could even hard to watch the videos on television say it promotes energy dominance. RECORD, as follows: that show Turkey-affiliated fighters EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ACE, as it is called, gives States the assassinating Kurdish forces—Kurds flexibility to set their own emission The United States cannot avoid or ignore with their hands tied behind their the conflict in Syria. From the outset of hos- standards. It focuses on energy effi- backs. tilities, minimizing American involvement ciency improvements at individual I traveled to Syria a year ago last in the war and safeguarding U.S. national se- powerplants, and it incentivizes in- summer. LINDSEY GRAHAM and I saw curity interests have proven to be incompat- creased efficiency for coal powerplants, firsthand the work of the combined ible goals. This will remain the case for the which allows them to remain open. We joint task force, Operation Inherent foreseeable future. The essential question be- have that important base of low-cost, Resolve. We saw the work its partner fore American policymakers is not whether the United States should keep or withdraw reliable electricity in the form of clean forces, the Syrian Democratic Forces, energy. its forces in Syria, but what strategy and were doing, and it was truly remark- mix of tools will best protect the United This simple, responsible plan is what able. The United States owes a huge States from the conflict’s reverberations and the Democrats find so abhorrent. With debt of gratitude to the men and advance American interests. This report sets the vote today, they are asking us to women of the SDF who sacrificed over out such a strategy. scrap the affordable clean energy rule 11,000 of their own lives in fighting THE SYRIAN CONFLICT AND AMERICAN and return to a rule that is unconstitu- ISIS so we didn’t have to sacrifice our INTERESTS tional, that tramples on States’ rights, own. From the conflict’s beginning in 2011 as a that kills jobs, that raises electricity Because of this sacrifice, when we peaceful domestic uprising, experts warned rates, and that does nothing substan- were in northeast Syria last summer, that President Bashar al-Assad’s brutal re- tial to reduce emissions. we witnessed communities like Manbij sponse was likely to have serious, negative I applaud President Trump and EPA steadily recover and rebuild after 3 impacts on U.S. interests. Given Syria’s cen- tral location in the Middle East, its ruling Administrator Wheeler for having in- years under ISIS’s brutal occupation, regime’s ties to terrorist groups and to Iran, cluded Governors and States and and the widespread appreciation of the and the incompatibility of Assad’s authori- innovators in the discussion before U.S. presence among local, multiethnic tarian rule with the aspirations of the Syr- having made the final rule. residents was a testament to the im- ian people, many worried about the conflict

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.017 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5866 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 spilling over Syria’s borders. These concerns United States. ISIS no longer holds signifi- stalemate, the fundamental obstacle remains are now a reality. The Syrian conflict cant territory in Syria or Iraq, but it is not the Assad regime’s unwillingness to coun- spawned a refugee crisis that has encum- defeated. The group has morphed into an in- tenance meaningful reform. Presidential bered Syria’s neighbors and roiled European surgency with the will, capability, and re- elections in 2021 are unlikely to produce a le- politics, strained U.S.-Turkish relations to sources to carry out attacks against the gitimate electoral outcome, because there is the point of crisis, led to direct hostilities United States. ISIS will seek to take advan- little chance that the regime will permit free between Iran and Israel, provided a vector tage of any opening, whether a reduction in and fair elections or the credible participa- for Russia’s resurgence in the Middle East, U.S. counterterrorism pressure or discontent tion of the Syrian diaspora. and challenged international norms around among eastern Syria’s Arab population, to The United States underestimated Russia’s weapons of mass destruction and the protec- recruit new fighters and mount attacks. ability to use Syria as an arena for regional tion of civilians. Areas of Syria have become ISIS’s terrorist ideology, or ‘‘brand,’’ con- influence. Russia’s intervention, beginning safe havens for al-Qaeda and its fellow trav- tinues to hold global appeal. in 2015, accomplished its proximate aim—the elers and home to the largest concentration The ISIS detainee population is a long- preservation of the regime in defiance of of foreign terrorist fighters since Afghani- term challenge that is not being adequately U.S. calls for Assad to ‘‘go’’—at a relatively stan in the 1990s. The conflict also fueled the addressed. Although ISIS has suffered sig- low cost. Russia has enhanced its profile and rise of ISIS, prompting an ongoing U.S.-led nificant casualties, many of its fighters—in- prestige more broadly in the Middle East. military intervention. Eight years in, the cluding thousands of foreign fighters—re- The extent of Russia’s success in Syria is de- conflict has not been meaningfully con- main in detention under SDF management. batable—it has yet to translate Assad’s mili- tained, nor has the United States been shel- If released, they will form the core of a new tary gains into the political victory Moscow tered from its effects. iteration of ISIS or a similar group. In addi- seemingly seeks—but Russia has neverthe- Events on the ground disprove the nar- tion, tens of thousands of family members of less reestablished itself as a crucial player in rative that the conflict has been won by the ISIS fighters are residing in camps in east- the region’s politics for the first time in dec- Assad regime. The Syrian war, far from end- ern Syria. The SDF has custody of both ades. ing, is entering a new phase. As of this writ- groups but lacks the resources and outside U.S.-Turkey relations are strained in Syria ing, the Assad regime and its patron Russia support to hold them indefinitely. U.S. and by starkly diverging views of the SDF. A are pressing an offensive against Idlib that allied efforts to deal with this problem have Turkish incursion into northeastern Syria could spur a new humanitarian catastrophe suffered from a lack of political will. would represent a major setback to U.S. and outflow of refugees. Tensions are sim- Al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups re- aims in Syria and a new crisis for the U.S.- mering between the Kurdish element that main active in Syria and threaten the United Turkish relationship. The United States re- dominates the U.S.-trained Syrian Demo- States. Although ISIS has received far more gards its decision to partner with the SDF to cratic Forces (SDF) in northeastern Syria attention, other terrorist groups are active fight ISIS as having been necessitated by the and the Arab populace of some of the areas and control territory, especially in Idlib. Al- lack of credible and timely Turkish alter- under SDF control. Turkey is positioning Qaeda offshoot Hayat Tahrir al-Sham has native; Turkey regards the SDF as a grave troops to invade northeastern Syria, which formed a government in Idlib, which is home security threat due to its links to the would divert the SDF away from the essen- to numerous other groups, including al- Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a threat tial task of preventing ISIS’s resurgence. Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate, Hurras ad-Din, and made more dangerous by U.S. training and ISIS itself, down but not defeated, is already a large number of foreign terrorist fighters. equipping of the SDF. This dispute has resurfacing as an insurgency and may yet at- The United States lacks freedom of action to played a significant role in the erosion of tempt to retake territory in both Syria and conduct a full-fledged counterterrorism cam- U.S.-Turkish relations and may yet prompt a Iraq. Iran and Israel, already locked in a low- paign in these areas. third Turkish incursion into Syria, which level conflict in Syria, may escalate to open Despite Israeli air strikes and U.S. sanc- would severely complicate the U.S. military conflict, especially in the Golan Heights. tions, Iran continues to entrench itself in campaign against ISIS. There is little sign The Assad regime and its partners may seek Syria; Russia and Iran show few serious signs that Turkey intends to relinquish control of to cross the Euphrates River, which could in of divergence. Iran appears to be pursuing a the two Syrian areas it currently controls— turn breathe life into the ISIS insurgency two-track policy of military entrenchment Afrin and the ‘‘Euphrates Shield’’ area. Although the SDF has been a highly effec- and allow Iran to consolidate its land routes and political and economic activity designed tive partner in the fight against ISIS, it from Iraq to Lebanon. All of these scenarios to enhance its power and influence in Syria must undergo a transition to ensure sta- become more likely without U.S. forces in for the long term. Iran’s activities have re- bility in northeastern Syria. The SDF is re- Syria and without committed U.S. leader- portedly caused discontent among Syria’s garded by the U.S. military as a highly effec- ship to avert these scenarios. population, but the Assad regime is heavily tive partner in the conventional military The Syria Study Group uncovered no easy dependent on Iranian support. Israeli offi- campaign against ISIS. That partnership solutions in Syria; optimal outcomes were cials believe that Israel’s air strikes have left behind long ago. Yet the Group deter- faces new challenges with the shift from disrupted Iran’s attempts to move sophisti- fighting to governing. The SDF remains mined that the threats the conflict in Syria cated weapons systems into Syria, but Iran’s poses—of terrorism directed against the dominated by Syrian Kurds—specifically by overall objectives appear unchanged and the the People’s Protection Units (YPG)—despite United States and its allies and partners; of risk of broader Iran-Israel conflict remains an empowered Iran; of an aggrandized Rus- its control over large stretches of predomi- high. Although Russia has acquiesced to the nantly Arab territory. This disparity, and sia; of large numbers of refugees, displaced Israeli campaign against Iran, there are few persons, and other forms of humanitarian ca- the YPG’s heavy-handed approach to gov- signs of a wider divergence between Moscow erning and resource allocation, has led to un- tastrophe; and of the erosion of international and Tehran regarding aims or tactics in norms of war and the Western commitment rest in Arab tribal areas. Minimal U.S. civil- Syria. ian engagement and the halt in U.S. sta- to them—are sufficiently serious to merit a Assad has not won the conflict in Syria. determined response from the United States. bilization funding in northeastern Syria The regime has recaptured large swaths of have diminished American influence. The United States and its allies retain tools territory and now holds 60 percent of the to address those threats and the leverage to The Assad regime’s systematic targeting of country. However, its control outside Da- civilians and civilian infrastructure con- promote outcomes that are better for Amer- mascus is tenuous, in part because it lacks ican interests than those that would prevail stitutes war crimes and demands account- the forces to secure the areas it retakes, but ability, as well as enhanced efforts to protect in the absence of U.S. engagement. Using also because it pursues punitive policies civilians. The Assad regime and its patrons, those tools effectively, however, will require against local populations. In much of re- including Russia, have systematically tar- better alignment of ends and means—the gime-held areas, civilians are subject to con- geted civilians and civilian infrastructure. A former must be more realistic and the U.S. scription as well as arbitrary arrest, torture, UN commission found the regime guilty of investment of the latter increased—as well and execution at the hands of the regime. crimes against humanity. Syrians have been as clear, consistent, and high-level political Crime and warlordism are rampant. The subjected to arbitrary detention, torture, leadership. Sharp shifts and reversals in Assad regime is determined to retake Idlib and execution at the hands of the regime. Al- American policy, and the failure of senior and is receiving Russian assistance to do so, though prospects for accountability are dim U.S. government officials to prioritize the but so far it has struggled to recapture terri- in the near term, efforts to document the re- issue with their counterparts, have under- tory without the help of Iranian ground gime’s atrocities are under way. mined American credibility and the effec- forces Syria’s humanitarian crisis, not least the tiveness of U.S. policy. Progress toward a political settlement to challenges posed by internally displaced peo- ASSESSMENT OF THE CURRENT SITUATION IN the Syria conflict has stalled, and Assad ple and refugees, will reverberate for dec- SYRIA shows no willingness to compromise with his ades. Most refugees are unlikely to return While the conflict in Syria is often charac- opponents. Neither the UN-led ‘‘Geneva proc- voluntarily given current conditions in terized as winding down, it is the assessment ess’’ based on UN Security Council Resolu- Syria. The Syrian conflict has provoked the of the Syria Study Group that this is incor- tion 2254 nor the ad hoc ‘‘Astana process’’ most serious human displacement since rect; in fact, the conflict remains dynamic comprising Russia, Iran, and Turkey has World War II, 6 million Syrians are inter- and dangerous. In particular: yielded progress toward a political settle- nally displaced, and nearly 6 million more The liberation of ISIS-held territory does ment to the conflict. While the United are registered as refugees outside the coun- not eliminate the group’s threat to the States is leading a new effort to break the try. Refugees have placed a heavy economic

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.002 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5867 burden on host countries, especially Syria’s tainee problem set; and (6) prioritize diplo- sure the continued provision of humani- neighbors; pressure is increasing, particu- matic and military engagement in Iraq. tarian aid to vulnerable populations inside larly within Lebanon and Turkey, for non- Until conditions inside Syria improve, and outside Syria. The United States should voluntary returns. Inside Syria, a large pro- deny the Assad regime and its backers all press for the renewal of the UN ‘‘cross-border portion of the population relies on humani- avenues for normalization by enforcing the resolution,’’ rally other states to fund hu- tarian aid, over which the regime seeks to regime’s diplomatic isolation and a rigorous manitarian appeals for Syria, and work with exercise control in order to enhance its sanctions architecture. Among other steps, international financial institutions to sup- power. the United States should continue to press port refugee-hosting countries. The United Despite these challenges, the United States allies and partners to refrain from reestab- States should stand firmly against efforts to maintains leverage to shape an outcome in lishing diplomatic ties with the Assad re- forcibly repatriate Syrian refugees and Syria that protects core U.S. national secu- gime, to withhold reconstruction assistance, should resume accepting Syrian refugees in rity interests. The Group identified several and to strictly enforce sanctions and seek to the United States. expand them. In addition, the international key points of leverage held by the United Mrs. SHAHEEN. The report read that States, particularly if used in coordination community should begin preparing the with allies and partners: influence over ground now for the eventual accountability the United States should make the northeastern Syria; sanctions against the of those responsible for war crimes in Syria, most of its gains and hold this critical Assad regime and its backers; the with- without imposing accountability as a pre- piece of land until a negotiated settle- holding of reconstruction assistance desired condition for a political settlement. ment was reached between all parties. by Assad and Russia; and the ongoing diplo- Test and verify Russian willingness to sup- Moreover, the report, which was bipar- matic isolation of the Assad regime. port political settlements acceptable to the tisan—that had Representatives ap- United States but continue activities that RECOMMENDATIONS FOR U.S. POLICY increase the costs to Russia for its actions in pointed by Members of Congress and by Despite its daunting assessment of the sit- Syria. Many observers believe that agree- the administration—read that with- uation in Syria, the Group believes that the ment between the United States and Russia drawing U.S. troops would not make United States is still able to exercise influ- is a prerequisite for progress toward a polit- ISIS less likely to regroup or Iran less ence over the conflict’s trajectory, and that ical settlement, yet Russia has consistently likely to entrench itself. it must do so given the threats the conflict failed to deliver on its commitments in poses to American interests. The Group be- President Trump’s ill-informed and Syria. The United States should require con- hasty decision will not only breathe lieves that the best end state in Syria is one crete actions of Russia pursuant to any dis- in which a Syrian government is viewed as cussions of a political settlement and, absent new life into the terrorist groups—into legitimate by its own population and has the such actions, should avoid making conces- ISIS, which is really just al-Qaida by will and capability to end Syria’s dependence sions to Moscow or legitimizing its positions. another name—and cede America’s on foreign forces and to prevent terrorist Concurrently, the United States should pres- hard-fought gains in the region to Rus- groups from thriving on Syrian territory. sure Moscow, in part by highlighting Rus- sia, Iran, and Assad, but it will erode This in turn requires conditions in which sian complicity in war crimes. U.S. credibility in the long term. It Syrian citizens live free from fear of the Remain focused on expelling Iranian forces will cede America’s hard-fought gains Assad regime and of Russian, Iranian, and and proxies from Syria but recognize that ISIS brutality and within an updated polit- this is best accomplished in phases. The key in the region. ical and social compact based on decentral- near-term goal should be to prevent further I wish there were alternatives that ized governance and equitable resource allo- entrenchment of Iran and its many partners we as a country could pursue. Sadly, I cation. and proxies while raising the cost to Iran for don’t think we can put the genie back Recognizing that such an outcome is a dis- its actions in Syria. To this end, the United in the bottle. Here in Congress, though, tant prospect, the Group recommends a States should continue its support of Israeli I hope we will look at ways to hold strategy that makes a negotiated political air strikes; enforce sanctions aimed at un- settlement in Syria more likely yet also al- Turkey and President Erdogan ac- dermining Iran’s ability to fund its proxies countable for his actions. lows the United States to defend its interests and partners in Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq; even if a political solution is not found. None maintain the U.S. military presence at the I certainly hope President Trump of those consulted by the Group believe that al-Tanf military base; and support efforts to will revoke his invitation to President withdrawing U.S. forces would make ISIS expose Iranian influence efforts in Syria. Erdogan to visit the United States. less likely to regroup, Iran less likely to en- The United States should insist that any po- President Erdogan needs to hear an un- trench itself, or a negotiated settlement litical settlement require the withdrawal of equivocal message of opposition to this more likely. Although the U.S. military mis- Iranian forces and proxies from Syria. incursion from the United States, and sion in Syria is often lumped together with Seek areas for cooperation with Turkey the Iraq and Afghanistan missions in the and address legitimate Turkish security con- it makes no sense to extend hospitality ‘‘forever war’’ category, the Syria case offers cerns while pressing Turkey to avoid any in- and niceties during this moment of cri- a different—and far less costly—model. A cursion into northeastern Syria and to im- sis. small U.S. military footprint, supported by prove conditions in the Afrin and Euphrates Republicans and Democrats must U.S. air power and other high-end capabili- Shield areas. U.S. efforts to reach agreement come together and ensure that the ad- ties, reinforced by a global coalition of like- on a security zone or security mechanism ministration understands the con- minded allies and partners, rallied a local along Turkey’s border with northeastern sequences of these actions. We have to partner force many times its size to liberate Syria should continue, and every attempt do more to ensure that such mistakes territory from a terrorist group. What U.S. should be made to isolate Syria from other forces and their partners have gained in problems in the U.S.-Turkey relationship. never happen again. Syria should not be discarded with a pre- The United States should encourage the re- I yield the floor. mature withdrawal. sumption of Turkey-PKK peace talks, which S.J. RES. 53 To that end, the Group recommends that hold the best possibility of leading to a Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise the United States, working in concert with ´ detente between Turkey and the SDF. The today in support of the resolution of allies and partners, continue its military United States should press Turkey to im- mission in order to maintain pressure on prove conditions and access in the areas of disapproval sponsored by Senator ISIS and other terrorist groups while main- Syria it controls. CARDIN that would block the Adminis- taining and strengthening pressure on the Seek to avert a humanitarian catastrophe tration’s harmful Affordable Clean En- Assad regime and its backers until condi- in Idlib while addressing the presence there ergy Rule. tions are conducive for a political settlement of terrorist groups. The United States should In Maine, our economy is inex- that ends the Syria war. In particular, the explore avenues to increase the pressure on tricably linked to the environment. Group recommends that the United States: terrorist groups in Idlib that may be plotting Our State, which is situated at the end Halt the U.S. military withdrawal; consoli- external attacks. At the same time, the date gains following the territorial defeat of United States should seek to deter the Assad of the Nation’s air pollution tailpipe, ISIS; and support communities liberated regime and its partners from continuing to has made substantial progress in reduc- from ISIS in forming an alternative model target civilians in the territory. In prepara- ing harmful emissions by increasing for governance, resource allocation, and se- tion for a renewed humanitarian and refugee energy efficiency, adopting clean en- curity in Syria. The Group recommends that crisis in Idlib, the United States should press ergy technologies, and improving air the United States (1) update its military Turkey to facilitate the work of nongovern- quality and public health. While I am mission to head off an ISIS insurgency; (2) mental organizations (NGOs) serving the pleased by the progress our country has adequately prepare for various contingencies population. and escalation scenarios; (3) return a U.S. ci- Energize efforts to address the humani- already made in reducing air pollut- vilian presence and stabilization funding to tarian crisis inside Syria while taking steps ants, the administration’s rule to re- northeastern Syria; (4) press the SDF to gov- to shore up countries hosting Syrian refu- peal and rewrite the Clean Power Plan ern more inclusively; (5) elevate the ISIS de- gees. The United States should work to en- is a step in the wrong direction.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.004 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5868 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 Climate change is a significant risk clean energy rule follows the law, and lowed a similar pattern. House Demo- that threatens Maine’s working for- it is good news for the people of Wyo- crats refuse to work with Republicans ests, fishing, and agricultural indus- ming and the rest of the country. It to pass commonsense bills to protect tries, as well as tourism and recreation recognizes that the EPA is not sup- our air and address climate change, and our coastal communities. I will posed to pick winners and losers. which we are promoting—an effort to continue to work in Congress to sup- Under the new rule, powerplants can actually address it. Apparently, it is port realistic, responsible solutions make reasonable changes like improv- not going far enough for the extreme that help reduce harmful emissions and ing efficiency. The rule promotes the Democratic environmentalists. protect our environment and the use of new cleaner technologies to gen- Bipartisan legislation to support car- health of our citizens. erate electricity so energy companies bon capture technologies, which we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- can modernize their powerplants with- passed in this body, sits in the House of ator from Wyoming. out having to shut them down com- Representatives waiting for a vote. Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask pletely. The USE IT Act—which I introduced unanimous consent to complete my re- The rule also respects the role of along with Senator WHITEHOUSE, who marks prior to the vote. States under the Clean Air Act. It gets gives speeches each week on climate The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without rid of ‘‘Washington knows best,’’ which change on the floor of the Senate. We objection, it is so ordered. is an approach we deal with—a top- have worked together. It has passed Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise down approach of unelected, unac- our committee unanimously. It has in strong opposition to the Congres- countable, heavyhanded bureaucrats. passed the Senate unanimously. Yet, sional Review Act resolution that has States understand how to protect the with overwhelming bipartisan support been put forward by the Democrats on air their citizens breathe. They know it in the Senate, it is still being blocked which we will soon be voting. is an important thing to do. The end in the House. The bill has bipartisan The Democrats’ resolution would result will be cleaner air and more af- support in the House as well, but it eliminate President Trump’s affordable fordable energy for America’s house- hasn’t gone anywhere. It is being clean energy rule. The President’s rule holds. stopped because Democratic leaders in is commonsense policy. It protects our Now Senate Democrats want to play the House refuse to move a common- air, and it allows our economy to grow politics once again and uproot the af- sense bill that would lower carbon at the same time. The affordable clean fordable clean energy rule. Democrats emissions and help address carbon cli- energy rule would replace the Obama want to resurrect a rule that the Su- mate change. administration’s so-called Clean Power preme Court took unprecedented ac- They are climate alarmists. They Plan. The punishing plan would have tion to stop. That would be bad for our want things done drastically, unilater- damaged our economy, and what I have environment, bad for our economy, and ally, immediately, when we are trying here is a map to go over some of that. bad for our country. to take commonsense steps in the right Under the Congressional Review Act, It would have closed powerplants. It direction. if Congress repeals the affordable clean would have put energy workers on un- Killing commonsense policies, like energy rule, the administration employment. It would have reduced the the affordable clean energy rule and couldn’t replace it with a similar rule. reliability of our electricity. It would the USE IT Act, makes no sense to me. The administration put forward a President Trump’s rule respects the have increased energy bills for Amer- commonsense rule to protect our air ican families and for small businesses. law, and it helps the environment. It is quality, and now Democrats want to a win-win for our country. Americans The results would have been dra- kill it. That is the proposal on the floor deserve clean air. They also deserve matic. There would have been dramatic today. clear rules, and the affordable clean en- increases in electricity bills all across Democrats have become hostages to the country. The plan would have dev- the far-left agenda, even when it ergy rule gives us both. I urge every Senator to oppose the astated communities, certainly in my doesn’t make any sense. It is not good resolution that is coming up to the home State of Wyoming. It would have policy, and we have seen this before. raised electricity bills by 42 percent in The Environment and Public Works floor. I yield the floor. the State of Wyoming, and they would Committee, which I chair, recently The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. have gone up in every State. passed legislation to help reduce the Wyoming is America’s leading pro- FISCHER). All time is expired. amount of plastic pollution in our The clerk will read the title of the ducer of coal. It supports thousands of oceans. The bipartisan bill follows up good-paying jobs all across the State. joint resolution for the third time. on the previous bipartisan Save Our The joint resolution was ordered to Across Wyoming, the punishing power Seas Act that passed and was signed be engrossed for a third reading and plan would put hard-working men and into law last Congress. was read the third time. women out of work. The rule would be Instead of supporting the legislation, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The joint a massive roadblock for States. Instead extreme environmentalists oppose the resolution having been read the third of working collaboratively with State bill—a bipartisan bill we got passed time, the question is, Shall the joint governments, it would put the EPA in last Congress. We are going on to the resolution pass? the driver’s seat of setting a national next level now. Now the extreme envi- Mr. BARRASSO. Madam President, I energy policy. ronmentalists, of course, oppose the ask for the yeas and nays. States would be told what energy bill because we are not banning all The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sources were allowed within their bor- plastics. Can you imagine something so sufficient second? ders and how to regulate them. ridiculous? But that is what they want. There appears to be a sufficient sec- Worst of all, the so-called Clean Working together in a bipartisan ond. Power Plan would have barely reduced way—even when we are doing things The clerk will call the roll. carbon emissions, it would have crip- that to me make sense, to others make The senior assistant legislative clerk pled our economy, and done very little, sense, to bipartisan Senators make called the roll. if anything, to help the environment. sense, to the House make sense, the ex- Mr. THUNE. The following Senators President Obama’s plan wasn’t just treme environmentalists say it is still are necessarily absent: the Senator bad policy, it was illegal. Twenty-seven not enough for them and their extreme from Tennessee (Mr. ALEXANDER) and States, including Wyoming, filed a law- measures and approaches. the Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAK- suit to stop the regulation. The Su- These extreme activists want to do SON). preme Court ruled that Obama’s EPA the same thing with our air. Instead of Further, if present and voting, the went way beyond its legal authority. finding common ground, their goal Senator from Tennessee (Mr. ALEX- The Court blocked the overreaching seems to be to shut down our economy ANDER) would have voted ‘‘nay’’ and rule. because that is what they are pro- the Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAK- Now President Trump has put for- moting. SON) would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ ward a commonsense replacement to Democrats in the House of Rep- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the protect America’s air. The affordable resentatives, regrettably, have fol- Senator from New Jersey (Mr. BOOKER),

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.005 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5869 the Senator from California (Ms. HAR- prisoners and their families now being work through that—in return for us RIS), the Senator from Minnesota (Ms. guarded by the Kurds, but because of moving our resolution. He still said no. KLOBUCHAR), and the Senator from the President’s action, they will no He still said no. I think that is a hor- Vermont (Mr. SANDERS) are necessarily longer be guarded. rible decision. I think it could well risk absent. When we went to the White House the lives of Americans down the road. I The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there yesterday and asked the President and think it will certainly risk the lives of any other Senators in the Chamber de- his military folks what is the plan to many more Kurds, who are our allies. siring to vote? prevent many of these ISIS would-be We will return to this issue. I wish we The result was announced—yeas 41, terrorists from escaping, they didn’t could pass it now—the same bill that nays 53, as follows: have one. They didn’t have one because passed the House with the vast major- [Rollcall Vote No. 324 Leg.] the Kurds have left, and the only peo- ity of Republicans, 2 to 1, with Leaders YEAS—41 ple who might guard them are the Syr- MCCARTHY and SCALISE and CHENEY Baldwin Gillibrand Rosen ians or the Turks, and neither of them voting for it—and go forward. I under- Bennet Hassan Schatz have a great interest in stopping ISIS. stand the motivations of my friend Blumenthal Heinrich Schumer In fact, I asked the Defense Secretary from Kentucky are sincere and real. He Brown Hirono Shaheen Esper: Is there any intelligence that has had these positions consistently. Cantwell Kaine Smith shows that either the Syrians or the They are not the positions of the ma- Cardin King Stabenow Carper Leahy Tester Turks would do a good job at guarding jority on his side nor on our side on Casey Markey Udall the ISIS prisoners and preventing them many issues. On some, we have worked Collins Menendez Van Hollen from escaping? Coons Merkley together and agreed, but I think it is so Warner Cortez Masto Murphy No, there was no intelligence to that wrong not to move forward. It is so Warren Duckworth Murray effect. As a result, ISIS prisoners are Whitehouse wrong to let the man, both Democrats Durbin Peters escaping, will continue to escape, and and Republicans saw in the White Feinstein Reed Wyden America will pay an awful price—an House yesterday, stay in control with- NAYS—53 awful price. The Kurds will pay an out pressuring him to do better—with- Barrasso Graham Portman awful price. They have fought along- out pressuring him to do better. Blackburn Grassley Risch side our soldiers. They are our allies. There is no better, quicker, or more Blunt Hawley Roberts I talked to my friend from Kentucky powerful way to pressure the President Boozman Hoeven Romney Braun Hyde-Smith Rounds who said the Kurds are better off with to undo the damage he has caused than Burr Inhofe Rubio the Syrians. Well, the Kurds sure don’t to pass a bipartisan joint resolution Capito Johnson Sasse think so. They would rather be back to that will go directly to his desk. We Cassidy Jones Scott (FL) Cornyn Kennedy the status quo. Talk to their leaders. will come back to this issue. It will not Scott (SC) Cotton Lankford Certainly, America will not be better Shelby go away. It cannot go away for the Cramer Lee Sinema off at all with ISIS prisoners escaping. safety of America, for the safety of the Crapo Manchin Who did this? The President. The Cruz McConnell Sullivan Kurds, for some degree of stability, not Daines McSally Thune President’s incompetence has put chaos in the Middle East that the Enzi Moran Tillis American lives in danger—simply, President, President Trump, precipi- Ernst Murkowski Toomey starkly put but accurate. In New York, Fischer Paul Wicker tously caused. Gardner Perdue Young as I said, we know well how a small I plead with my colleague from Ken- group of fanatics halfway around the tucky and anyone else who might ob- NOT VOTING—6 world can do incredible damage and ject to let us have the vote. Let us Alexander Harris Klobuchar kill thousands of Americans here on make our arguments and prevail. We Booker Isakson Sanders our soil. are willing to do debate time. Let us The joint resolution (S.J. Res. 53) It should shake every Member of this not say it has to be my way or the was rejected. body, regardless of their ideology and highway when so many lives and such f regardless of their views on Turkey, danger is at risk. RELATING TO A NATIONAL EMER- that the President made this decision I ask unanimous consent that the GENCY DECLARED BY THE so abruptly without heeding the advice Senate proceed to the immediate con- PRESIDENT ON FEBRUARY 15, of our commanders on the ground and sideration of Calendar No. 246, H.J. 2019—VETO now has no plan to manage the con- Res. 77; that the joint resolution be sequences. read a third time and the Senate vote The PRESIDING OFFICER. The After meeting with the President on passage with no intervening action clerk will report the pending business. yesterday, it was clear to both Demo- or debate. The senior assistant legislative clerk crats and Republicans in the room that The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there read as follows: he does not grasp the gravity of the sit- objection? Veto message to accompany S.J. Res. 54, a uation. He doesn’t understand it. The The Senator from Kentucky. joint resolution relating to a national emer- most important thing we can do right Mr. PAUL. Madam President, reserv- gency declared by the President on February now is send President Trump a message ing the right to object. The Constitu- 15, 2019. that Congress, the vast majority of tion is quite clear on this subject. If The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Democrats and Republicans, demand he the minority leader wishes to engage in ate Democratic leader. reverse course. the civil war in Syria that has been UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—H.J. RES. 77 I am asking this as a unanimous con- going on for nearly a decade, we should Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, I sent to not go through a long regular obey the Constitution. He should come am going to speak for a minute before process because the bottom line is, the to the floor and say we are ready to de- I make my unanimous consent request. longer we wait, the more Kurds will clare a war, we are ready to authorize Now, we have a crisis here in this die—our allies—the more ISIS pris- force, and we are going to stick our world and here in America. Because of oners will escape, and the greater dan- troops in the middle of this messy, the President’s precipitous action to ger, hour by hour, day by day, America messy five-sided civil war, where we take a small number of American falls into. We should move this resolu- would be ostensibly opposed to the troops out of northern Syria and green- tion. We need unanimous consent. Turkish Government that has made an light Erdogan’s invasion, we are in real I spoke to my good friend from Ken- incursion. We would then be opposed to trouble. We are in trouble in a whole tucky. He said he wanted to put a reso- our NATO ally. It would be the first lot of ways. lution on the floor about military aid time in history that we would be in- Most importantly, we, in New York, to Turkey, something many on my side serting ourselves militarily against a know that a small group of bad people would be sympathetic to. I offered him NATO ally. can cause terrible terrorism with huge the ability of moving his resolution— None of this is to excuse Turkey’s ac- loss of life, even when they are 7,000 we would have to, of course, get per- tion. In fact, today I will offer a resolu- miles away. There are about 70,000 ISIS mission of all Members, but I would tion that would actually do something.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.006 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5870 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 The resolution that is being offered is parties. Then, when laying politics on groups for centuries. It was going to simply a way to have petty, partisan top of it, where you have a level of ani- happen. criticism of the President infect this mus toward the Commander in Chief The fact that Erdogan had amassed body. Mine, actually, would have the that there is at this point, it becomes 30,000 troops on the border was a clear force of law and would prevent any very difficult to sort this out. So as indication that it was going to go for- arms from being sold to Turkey, which chairman of the Foreign Relations ward. We had about 28 troops between would be a serious rebuke to what they Committee, I want to try to lay out the two standing armies and admit- are doing in Syria. some fundamentals that we need to tedly the President of the United The Constitution is quite clear. No deal with. States pulled those 28 troops out of authorization has ever been given for As has been pointed out by every- harm’s way. the use of force in Syria. There was no one—and I think everyone agrees—the In any event, you can argue about authorization of declaration of war and situation on the ground in Syria is an what got us here, what the triggering no permission to be there at all. So if incredibly complex situation. It is dif- factor was, whether it was or wasn’t they want to insert themselves in this ficult to understand and impossible to going to happen anyway, but what you civil war, by all means, let’s have a de- manage at some point because of the can’t argue about is what the situation bate. Let’s have a constitutional de- fact that there are dozens and dozens of is today. There isn’t anyone in this bate, but I, for one, am not willing to tribal entities that share religious or body that would disagree that this is a send one young man or one young cultural or tribal affiliations either to- very serious situation. woman, one soldier over there without gether or in opposition. The result of Turkey is alone on this, by the way. a clear mission. that is the mess that we have had in With the possible exception of the There is no clear mission. There is no Syria for so long. Qataris, they are alone on this. The clear enemy. In fact, the war is largely On top of that, in northern Syria we world has been watching this, con- over. Assad is going to remain, for bet- have a situation where the Kurds and demning what Turkey is doing. They ter or worse. So we have a despot on the Turks are at odds with each other. have done a cross-border incursion, and one side, Erdogan. We have another This has happened just recently, and as they are facing their age-old enemy, despot on the other side, Assad. Here is everybody in this body—House and the Kurds, inside of Syria. So what do we do about this? Well, the deal: The Kurds have to live there. Senate, Republicans, Democrats— the House has passed a matter that the It is despairing that they have to live knows, it is a very serious situation, minority leader has talked about and there, but you know what, their best but this is not new. The animosity and wanted to pass. Senator PAUL has fight between the Turks and the Kurds chance for survival is having an ally brought his idea to the floor. But I have been going on for centuries. This inside of Syria. want to tell you that the Foreign Rela- If they become allied, and it appears fight between these two groups has tions Committee has been working on they are—if they become allied with been going on for centuries. this since it blew up. Assad, you know what, there is a possi- Who are these two groups? First, we I want to thank my staff, and I want have the Turks on one side, on the bility of a Kurdish area within Syria. to thank Senator MENENDEZ’ staff, the There may well be an opportunity for a north of the border, who are members ranking member, who pulled an ‘‘all- Kurdish area similar to what has hap- of NATO and are at the very least theo- nighter’’ last night, putting together a pened in Iraq. retical allies of the United States, al- piece of legislation, and an ‘‘all- So I object to this resolution because though in recent years that alliance morninger’’ to get to the point where this resolution does nothing to fix the has been strained, and that is an under- we are. problem. My resolution would stop statement of what the situation is. This piece of legislation is going to arms sales to Turkey, so I will object Recently, they negotiated a deal with be dropped very quickly. Risch-Menen- to this resolution. the Russians to buy S–400 missiles, dez is a bipartisan piece of legislation The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. which is a horrendous problem for a that addresses the issues that all of us YOUNG). Objection is heard. member of NATO. NATO was formed, are concerned about. It addresses the The minority leader. of course, to push back against the issues with Turkey. It addresses the Mr. SCHUMER. I believe history will Russians, and now you have a member issues with the Kurds. It addresses the show that the country, the Senate, and of NATO that is engaging with the Rus- issues that the minority leader ad- even the Senator from Kentucky will sians in this fashion. This has caused dressed regarding the ISIS prisoners regret his blocking of this resolution. us real grief. who are being held. It is a good piece of I yield the floor. Those of us who deal with it have legislation. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- dealt with it for months. We have been It is going to have numerous—and I ator from Kentucky. pressing the Turks as hard as we can mean numerous—cosponsors to the bill UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 2624 about the mistake they have made and from both sides of the aisle. So with Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, at this the consequences it is going to have. that in mind, I am going to enter an time I want to ask unanimous consent They have an order for F–35s. They objection to Senator PAUL’s piece of that we introduce S. 2624, Turkey arm make a number of parts for the F–35. legislation, not because I object to it as sales, which would eliminate any fur- We have told them clearly, in no uncer- it stands by itself but because we have ther sale of arms to Turkey and, in- tain terms, for months that they can a comprehensive piece of legislation stead of sending a fake message or a have the F–35s or they can have the S– that does address this that is the result sense of the Senate resolution, would 400s, but they cannot have both. They of consultation between both the ma- actually be a binding resolution and insisted that they can. That is simply jority and the minority and the admin- would tell the Turks: Yes, we are seri- not going to happen. I think they are istration to get us a bill that could ac- ous. We object to your incursion into starting to believe that. tually become law. Syria. You need to respect the terri- Fast forward to where we are now. From my own standpoint, I am al- torial integrity of Syria, and we there- The Turks have amassed 30,000 troops ways at a point where I want to reach fore are no longer going to be selling on the border with Syria and are ready an objective and want to get to a re- you arms. to come in and take on the Kurds, who sult. Senator PAUL’s and the other leg- I ask unanimous consent that this be had moved into the northern part of islation cannot become law. This bipar- passed. Syria due to the failed-state status of tisan piece of legislation, Risch-Menen- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Syria. dez, which addresses this very, very se- objection? To say that the President of the rious issue can become law. As a result The Senator from Idaho. United States is responsible for this is of that, Mr. President, I object. Mr. RISCH. Reserving the right to simply a political statement that isn’t The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- object, colleagues, this is a very fluid true. You can dislike the Commander tion is heard. situation, as we all know, and, cer- in Chief, you can dislike the calls that The Senator from Utah. tainly, Americans who are watching he makes, but this is a war that has Mr. LEE. Mr. President, I applaud this from home are confused about the been going on between these two President Trump for the restraint, the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.023 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5871 resolve, and the commitment to con- now, but if somebody wants to make Instead, those letters said their pen- stitutional principles that he dem- that discussion, let’s have it, and let’s sions would be slashed by 50 percent, 60 onstrated when he decided not to have debate it. percent, or sometimes 70 percent. Since the United States go into Syria, not to But what people shouldn’t be doing is then, those retirees have organized. continue to involve our troops in a criticizing President Trump, who has They have organized at home. They looming conflict in Syria. shown restraint and shown deference to have called on their Members of Con- I agree that it is a horrible situation. the American people, who wants to gress. They have come to Washington I agree that we have people running protect our sons and daughters who countless times to remind us of the both Syria and Turkey who are not our would be protecting us. He is saying: promises that were made when they friends and who have shown significant Maybe, just maybe, when you have a earned their pensions and to fight for a hostility toward us. It is precisely be- bad guy in Turkey, wanting to do some solution to the pending crisis. cause of that and not in spite of it that things in Syria with regard to the I have been proud to work side-by- we shouldn’t be there, especially when Kurds, maybe, just maybe, when you side with these Wisconsin workers and you take into account that we do not take into account the fact that Turkey retirees, and with my colleague Sen- have a declaration of war relative to is, in fact, a NATO ally and we have a ator BROWN to introduce the Butch Syria. We do not have an authorization NATO article 5 obligation to do some- Lewis Act. for the use of military force with re- thing about that, that is going to lead This legislation will put failing mul- gard to Syria. Under our system of gov- to full-blown war. We should therefore tiemployer pension plans, including ernment, the U.S. Constitution placed respect him. We should be grateful to Central States, back on solid ground, the power to declare war or otherwise him for taking that step of restraint. and it does so without cutting the pen- authorize the use of military force in This President has been unique in sions that retirees have earned. It does Congress. This was no accident. It is modern history in not blindly deferring so without cutting the pensions retir- the branch of the Federal Government to the military industrial complex. I ees have earned. This is not just good most accountable to the people at the thank him for that and salute his will- policy for workers and retirees because most regular intervals. ingness to stand behind our brave men putting these pensions back on strong This was a significant break from our and women. footing would also protect the small previous system of government—the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- businesses that employed them from one that was based in London. In Fed- ator from Indiana. the threat of closing their doors if Mr. BRAUN. I rise to speak today be- eralist No. 69, Alexander Hamilton ex- these plans are allowed to fail. cause I just finished up visiting all 92 plained that this was no accident, that Compounding this looming crisis is counties in our home State, and every under the British model, the King, as the reality that the Pension Benefit one of them, especially at the tail end, the chief executive, had the power to Guaranty Corporation, known as the have backed what we have been doing PBGC—the government’s insurance for take the country to war. It was Par- here, especially following the lead of multiemployer pension plans like Cen- liament’s job, then, to follow along, to President Trump. tral States—is on its own path to insol- figure out what to do about it and how When it comes to the particular issue to fund it. of Syria, I think it begs the question vency by 2025. This week, I reintro- This would not be the case in the when people say it green-lighted what duced legislation to help address the fi- American Republic. This is not the occurred there. What would the reac- nancial challenges of the PBGC. The case under our Constitution. Yet, tion have been had we not gotten out Pension Stability Act would add fund- sadly, for decades we have had a Con- of harm’s way? I am guessing it would ing to the Pension Benefit Guaranty gress consisting of Republicans and have been a bigger fiasco in many dif- Corporation’s multiemployer program Democrats, Senators and Representa- ferent dimensions. by imposing a fee on financial firms tives who have allowed the legislative The minority leader indicated that convicted of financial crimes. muscle to atrophy, who have refused Mr. PAUL’s idea was horrible. I want to This weekend, I was in Endeavor, WI, and declined to exercise the power to make the point that, collectively, over with retirees who meet once a month declare war. the last 40 to 50 years, we have been en- at the fire station to update one an- In that context, I have heard Repub- gaged all the way back to the Vietnam other on our progress here in Wash- licans and Democrats, Senators and war, where we have been adventure- ington. I have been to many, many Representatives alike, defer again and some and have done it where we have such meetings like that across the again and again to Presidents of every not paid for it, and we are now in a State. In the months since the House conceivable partisan combination, say- pickle. That is why I was for what the passed the Butch Lewis Act, there ing: Let the President decide what we President decided to do. You cannot hasn’t been much other progress to do. continue being engaged like this when speak of. The Senate hasn’t taken up Through our own inaction, we have running trillion-dollar deficits—$22 the bill, no other proposals have been essentially relinquished the power to trillion in debt. Hoosiers understand offered, and all the while, retirees and declare war. that, and most Americans do as well. workers in the Central States Pension Why does this matter? This is the So I am going to support RAND Fund continue to doubt their retire- only connection the American people PAUL’s amendment, and I am glad that ment security. have to the power to declare war. When the President finally had the guts to do Today, I am asking my colleagues in we send their brave sons and daughters what most Americans have been for, the Senate to join me and pass my Pen- into harm’s way, we owe it to them to and I am disappointed that the other sion Stability Act and to help generate have an open, public robust debate and side in any other situation would have new revenue to help safeguard the re- discussion in which we make a deal been for that exact action. tirement security of millions of Ameri- with them, in which we outline the I yield the floor. cans. If Washington does not act, work- terms for our engagement. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ers and retirees will face massive cuts We don’t have that in Syria. There ator for Wisconsin. to the pensions they have earned over are those who are upset that we don’t, UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 2598 decades of hard work. I have come to and I understand that they are upset Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I rise the floor many times to remind this that we don’t. If they are upset that we today on behalf of nearly 25,000 work- body about the retirees—some of whom don’t, it is not as though we are a vic- ers and retirees in Wisconsin who have stand to lose more than 50 percent of tim. We are the actor, not the acted paid into the Central States Pension their pensions—and still, nothing has upon. We have the power right here and Fund. More than 4 years ago, thou- been done. So I am here once again to right now to bring up a proposal. If sands of Wisconsinites started receiv- remind my colleagues that this is they want to declare war with regard ing letters in the mail telling them about a promise that must be kept. to Syria, let’s have that discussion. that their pensions—which they had Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- I am not a fan of war. I am not a fan worked for, planned on, and earned— sent that the HELP Committee be dis- of war starting on behalf of the United would not be paid out in full as was charged from further consideration of States anywhere in the world right promised to them. S. 2598 and the Senate proceed to its

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.025 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5872 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 immediate consideration; further, that gin. Immigrants from countries with years. Languishing in the decade-long the bill be considered read a third time large populations are restricted to re- backlog, she is now being forced to con- and passed and the motion to recon- ceiving the same number of visas as sider leaving the United States due to sider be considered made and laid upon immigrants from smaller countries. the continuous uncertainty of her im- the table with no intervening action or Their wait times have ballooned, in migration status and the incessant re- debate. some cases stretching out literally for newals of temporary visas. If she The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there decades. The problem compounds over leaves, she will take her talents and objection? time, and it has become even more un- her training with her, depriving Utah’s The Senator from Utah. fair than it was many decades ago residents of a smart, skilled, kind, and Mr. LEE. Mr. President, reserving when it was first enacted into law. caring nurse. the right to object, I thank and com- I repeat, this happens for absolutely Ashish Patel first came to Utah le- mend my friend and distinguished col- no reason other than the country in gally in 2005 on a temporary high- league, the Senator from Wisconsin, for which the immigrant was born. Let’s skilled work visa. Since that time, he her work on this effort. I am not famil- say that two immigrants—one from has worked hard at his job, paid taxes, iar with this legislation. I don’t serve India and the other from Germany— followed the law, got married, and had on the Health, Education, Labor, and with the exact same skills, the exact two kids, both of whom were born as Pensions Committee. I have friends same degrees, and the exact same job American citizens. In February of 2011, who do. I have friends who couldn’t be experience apply at the same hour of Mr. Patel’s petition to earn a green here today but who have asked me to the same day for an employment-based card was approved. Despite this and de- voice objection on their behalf. green card. The German might wait spite the fact that 8, going on 9 years On behalf of the senior Senator from maybe 12 months to receive a green have now elapsed, his green card re- Tennessee, Senator ALEXANDER, I ob- card. Well, the Indian applicant will al- mains unissued. Why? Well, solely be- ject. most certainly wait a decade or far cause of the arbitrary, wrong, discrimi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- more. This kind of system is antithet- natory per-country caps. Ashish Patel tion is heard. ical to American values and to the in- is still in the backlog even as immi- The Senator from Wisconsin. terest our country has in recruiting the grants of other countries who have ap- Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, my very best and the very brightest from plied years and years after he did and message to my colleagues on the other around the world irrespective of race, years and years after he received his side of the aisle today is simple: If you religion, or country of origin. approval have already been granted will continue to object to my proposal It is simply unacceptable that in 2019 permanent resident status. If Mr. Patel to help shore up the PBGC and the pro- our immigration system still contains had emigrated from any country in the posals from me and other Democratic country-of-origin discrimination as a world other than India, he would al- colleagues to put failing multiem- defining feature. The per-country caps ready have his green card today. ployer pensions back on solid ground, simply must go. They are wrong. They Dr. Chaitanya Mamillapalli is an then please bring up your own plans. were never good policy. Whatever pol- endocrinologist who has been serving Bring your ideas to the table, and let’s icy they might have had in mind dec- in central Illinois for the past 9 years. work together to solve this pension cri- ades ago, it escapes me—except, in He came to the United States in 2007. sis and protect the retirement security fact, that the policy itself was wrong He will likely not receive his green of Americans because just objecting to at the outset. It has become more card for at least another decade. His our plans is not an option for the 25,000 wrong over time as these problems daughter was 1 year old when she came workers and retirees I am representing have compounded. with her parents to this country. In a here today. Doing nothing is not an op- The obviousness of the moral error few years, she will age out of her tem- tion. If we don’t act, we will be break- embedded within this legislation is porary visa, and Dr. Mamillapalli will ing a promise made to 1.5 million work- more profound and easily visible today face a decision that confronts many ers and retirees nationwide. Pension than it has ever been. If you were to people stuck in the backlog commu- promises must be kept. describe this to anyone, they would nity: Does he separate from his daugh- Once again, I will say Washington scratch their head and say: Why would ter as she loses her temporary status, needs to act, and we need to do it now. you want to do that unless you are en- or does he abandon his life in the I yield back. gaging in some type of discrimination United States in order to keep his fam- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- that we as a country understandably ily together? ator from Utah. abandoned a long time ago and should Dr. Priya Shanmugam lives in Lou- UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—H.R. 1044 no longer embrace? isiana and is an aerospace engineer Mr. LEE. Mr. President, I rise yet The harm inflicted by any kind of in- who studied at the University of Ala- again today to speak about an issue vidious discrimination, whether it be bama and at UCLA. She dreams of near and dear to my heart and an issue on the basis of race or sex or country of working for NASA. After 13 years in that has become the focus of many of origin, does not exist simply in the ab- the backlog, she is still waiting for a my passions here in the Senate, and stract, in the ether; the human suf- green card. As a result of that, she can- that is the Fairness for High-Skilled fering caused by it happens to be real not fulfill her dream of joining Amer- Immigrants Act. This is an important and heartbreaking. ica’s space team and helping put the and overwhelmingly bipartisan piece of Although, in the time we have here first person on Mars. Until she finally legislation. It is a piece of legislation this afternoon to discuss this, I am gets her green card, our country will that passed the House in July by an sure I can’t come anywhere close to continue to lose out on her talent. overwhelming vote of 365 to 65. doing justice to all the people who are Dr. Krishnendu Roy is a professor of Two of these things should strike the being harmed by the per-country cap computer science and head of the De- American people as remarkable: No. 1, system, I would like to share at least a partment of Computer Science at Val- that something with that much of a bi- few of their stories so that you under- dosta State University in Georgia. He partisan margin passed in the House of stand how this law operates. I find that studied for his degree in Louisiana and Representatives, and No. 2, that it when you tell stories about a law, peo- has lived in the United States for over deals with immigration, and it was ple understand the law and they under- 16 years. During that time, he shaped still that overwhelmingly bipartisan. stand what needs to change about the the lives of countless students in Geor- As I explained in this Chamber be- law a lot more than they would have gia through the classes he teaches by fore, the concept of this legislation is otherwise. organizing computing camps for K–12 simple. Our current method for allo- Agna Hingu is a registered nurse who students and by mentoring the robotics cating green cards caps the total num- lives in South Jordan, UT, currently team in his community. He has fol- ber of green cards that nationals of any working at a nonprofit healthcare or- lowed the law, and he has done exactly one country may receive. In practice, ganization in Utah. She received her what is required of him under our im- this results in severe de facto discrimi- bachelor’s degree in this country. She migration system in order to earn his nation on the basis of country of ori- has lived in this country for the past 10 green card. Yet he remains stuck in the

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Her impact on land, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Den- single most politically fraught issue, is the community has been invaluable. mark, or other countries from which one of the most politically fraught Recently, she tried to return from a people have been immigrating to issues in Congress right now. That trip to India, but approval for her visa America for centuries? makes it all the more important for us was delayed for 6 weeks, forcing her pa- We should think about that for a mo- to at least come together to get some- tients to travel as far as 100 miles as ment and think about how we would thing done in those areas in which we they scrambled the find a temporary never have been able to have enjoyed can find common ground. It is a little physician. The pain this caused her pa- the blessings of America. I think it is bit like eating an elephant. You can’t tients would never have come about if equally wrong for us to identify a sin- swallow the whole thing at once, either she had not been subjected to an arbi- gle country that we punish, that we ex- the elephant or the donkey. You have trary, discriminatory cap based on her clude uniquely against other countries to do it one bite at a time. Why not country of origin and had already re- of origin in the context of employ- start with an area in which there is ceived her green card. ment-based immigrant visas. broad-based, bipartisan agreement? Ash Kannan lives in Oklahoma. His I understand and recognize that That is what this bill is. The Fairness story is a heartbreaking example of the while the per-country caps themselves for High-Skilled Immigrants Act is an devastating effects of the long wait for are completely indefensible—and they important step toward common a green card and the effects that a fam- are—some people have concerns about ground. ily can endure under this system. Ash how eliminating the caps might impact Unquestionably, there are broader and his wife lost their toddler son to a fraud and abuse within the H–1B sys- debates on immigration policy being congenital disease about 3 years ago. tem. That is a legitimate concern. had in Congress and across the country The illness that took their son could To address those very concerns in right now. Some wish to reform our have been treated had they been able this Congress, I have negotiated with immigration system by increasing the to move to a different home, one closer Senator GRASSLEY an amendment to number of green cards we issue while to the medical facility that provided the Fairness for High-Skilled Immi- others wish to move to a more merit- the necessary treatment. They were grants Act to include some new protec- based system. That debate is almost unable to do so, and their son was thus tions for American workers in how we certainly not going to be resolved this unable to receive the care he required, process applications for H–1B visas. day, today, or this month or this year that he needed, because Ash was forced The amendment does three things. or, perhaps, even during this Congress. to remain with the same employer First, the Grassley amendment would Notably, however, many Senators on while he waited in the green card back- strengthen the Department of Labor’s both sides of that debate—ardent log and, consequently, was unable to ability to investigate and enforce labor champions of both liberal and conserv- move. application requirements. In addition, ative immigration reforms, who ordi- These are just some of the names and it reforms the labor condition applica- narily could not be farther apart when stories of some of the hard-working, tion process to ensure the complete it comes to immigration policy—are law-abiding immigrants who have and adequate disclosure of information cosponsors of the Fairness for High- come to the United States to build regarding the employers’ H–1B hiring Skilled Immigrants Act. The reason lives and to contribute to our commu- practices. Finally, it closes off loop- this is the case is that they recognize nities but who have been told that be- holes by which employers could other- that regardless of what else we might cause of the countries in which they wise circumvent the annual cap on H– do to reform our immigration system, were born, they have to wait decades in 1B visa workers. country-of-origin discrimination is the green card backlog before they can These are important and worthy re- outdated, outmoded, immoral, morally start living the American dream. forms that I was happy to add to the indefensible, and inconsistent with our These stories stir us to action, and bill. Indeed, we saw an example just values. It is also a problem that we can they darned well should. They should last month of the positive impact these solve right now. remind us that while policymaking is reforms would have. In September, Im- The other reason the Fairness for often messy and complicated, it is migration and Customs Enforcement High-Skilled Immigrants Act has been sometimes simple and straightforward announced a $2.5 million settlement so successful in attracting support because sometimes you stumble across with an Indian consulting firm for H– from both sides of the aisle and from something that is a good idea. Some- 1B visa fraud. That firm was exploiting every end along the political con- times you stumble across something the so-called ‘‘B–1 in lieu of H–1B’’ tinuum is that we have scrupulously that was a bad idea that was put into loophole. One of the new provisions we avoided the typical poison pill provi- law decades ago that should be taken added to the bill this Congress would sions that so often doom attempts at out of the law. Sometimes the solution help close that specific loophole. immigration reform. We have also to our problems is clear and beyond Importantly, the Grassley amend- quite carefully avoided this becoming question. In those cases, all we need is ment, like the underlying bill, consists about so many things that it is going the will to act. of provisions that have long enjoyed to become controversial no matter I have yet to hear someone offer a support from Members of both sides of what. reasoned defense of the per-country the aisle. They are drawn primarily This bill is not comprehensive immi- caps as meritorious or sound public from an H–1B reform bill that has been gration reform. It is not anything close policy on their own terms, and that is championed by both Senator GRASSLEY to that. That is, in fact, why this bill is because there is no such defense, at and Senator DURBIN. They are also something that we can get done right least not one that anyone would be modeled, in large part, on an amend- now. It is the reason it was able to pass willing to defend in public. Country-of- ment to the Fairness for High-Skilled the House of Representatives with 365 origin discrimination, whether it be in Immigrants Act that Senator SCHUMER votes. our immigration system, in our justice negotiated with Senator GRASSLEY in a While it does not fix many of the system, in the employment context, or previous Congress. other flaws that plague other compo- in housing, is wrong and inconsistent I am grateful that Senator GRASSLEY nents of our broken, outdated, out- with the values upon which our coun- was able to come to the table and work moded, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly-era try was founded. It becomes even more with me and others in good faith on a immigration law system, it is a great repugnant when its human con- reasonable compromise to this bill. I and important step toward reform. If sequences are as obvious and tragic and believe the deal we struck is a fair and we are ever going to have a chance at

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.028 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5874 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 modernizing and repairing our immi- the world—in 10 years, there will still stuck in an interminable green card gration laws, we need to recognize that be over 165,000 people of Indian descent backlog that is morally indefensible. we cannot necessarily solve all of our waiting in line, and the rest of the We must change this. I hope and I en- problems at once. The fact that this is world will have been excluded. This is courage my colleague to change his the case should not stand in our way of unfair. It doesn’t make sense. mind. We can pass this today. We could starting the work the American people I will offer a unanimous consent re- make our country a better place as a sent us here to do. quest to lift that 140,000 cap, and with- result. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- in 5 years, all who are waiting in line Thank you. sent that the Committee on the Judici- will get their chances for green cards— Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, is there ary be discharged from further consid- 5 years—but not at the expense of the any time remaining? eration of H.R. 1044 and that the Sen- rest of the world. Let’s do this in a fair The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is ate proceed to its immediate consider- fashion. While we are at it, it is unfair no time remaining. ation. I ask unanimous consent that that your spouses and children are f the Lee amendment at the desk be being counted when it comes to the S.J. RES. 54 agreed to, that the bill, as amended, be 140,000. My bill exempts that. They are Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, in Feb- no longer going to be bound by any considered read a third time and ruary of this year, Senator UDALL and passed, and that the motion to recon- quota. I joined in introducing a resolution to sider be considered made and laid upon Secondly, if your children are aging terminate the national emergency dec- the table. out, if they are reaching the age of 21— laration. On March 14, 59 Members of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a new legal status and new worries for this body joined together in a strong objection? you and your family—I eliminate that bipartisan majority to pass the com- The Senator from Illinois. problem completely. My approach is panion House Resolution and send it to Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, in re- one that will solve the problem by lift- the President. Unfortunately, the serving the right to object, as I under- ing the legal immigration for talented President chose to veto that resolu- stand it, we have only 6 minutes until people like many who have gathered tion, and the House vote to override the rollcall vote, and I don’t want to here today. the veto fell short. inconvenience my colleagues. The Senator from Utah says he can’t Last month, a bipartisan majority I would like to ask permission from support that. I hope he will reconsider. again came together in the Senate to the Senator of Utah to make my unani- Lifting that cap is what we need to pass a resolution introduced by Sen- mous consent request the first item of do—lifting the country quotas, making ator UDALL, Senator SHAHEEN, and my- business after the rollcall vote is an- certain that those in line finally get self to reverse the President’s national nounced. their chances. This is all within 5 emergency declaration. Unfortunately, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there years, which is something the under- but not unexpectedly, the President objection to the Senator for Illinois’ lying bill does not do. So I hope the has chosen to veto this resolution request? Senator from Utah will agree to my again, and we will be voting shortly on Mr. LEE. Mr. President, in reserving bill that I will be offering as an alter- whether to override that veto. the right to object, I want to make native after this rollcall vote. Before we do so, I would like to take sure I understand that the Senator I object to this bill. a few minutes to speak to the funda- wants to make his live UC request The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- mental issue raised by the emergency after the rollcall vote. tion is heard. declaration: It directly conflicts with Mr. DURBIN. That is correct. The Senator from Utah. the ‘‘power of the purse’’ vested in Con- Mr. LEE. There is no objection. Mr. LEE. Mr. President, how much gress by the Framers of our Constitu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without time remains? tion. objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. There The question presented by this veto Is there objection to the original re- are 2 minutes remaining. of the resolution is not whether you quest? Mr. LEE. Mr. President, I will be are for a border wall or against a bor- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, in re- brief. der wall, nor is the question whether serving the right to object, I would say Just as the per-country cap system is you believe security at our southern the following: I have been on the floor a quintessential example of the poorly border should be strengthened or of the Senate more often than any designed, broken system and of what a whether it is sufficient. other Senator to ask for immigration poorly designed broken system looks In fact, the question is, simply; Do reform. Our system is broken. As we like, the objection that we have heard we want the executive branch, now or debate this important issue, the Gal- today is, I fear, emblematic of the bro- in the future, to hold the power of the leries are filled with people who are ken state of affairs that we face when purse, a power the Founders delib- following this debate personally be- it comes to the immigration process. erately entrusted to Congress? cause it literally affects their lives and I mentioned earlier that one of the Throughout our history, the courts their families and their futures. This reasons this bill has been able to have consistently held that ‘‘only Con- Senator has been willing to move for- achieve as much support and as many gress is empowered by the Constitution ward on comprehensive immigration cosponsors as it has and why it was to adopt laws directing monies to be reform. Sadly, the Senator on the able to pass the House of Representa- spent from the U.S. treasury.’’ This other side has not supported that. I tives with 365 votes is that we have view is central to several ongoing cases hope he will consider doing it. avoided poison pill efforts. The adjust- challenging the President’s national In the meantime, though, what are ment of the overall numbers that my emergency declaration. we going to do about the current issue friend and distinguished colleague from I have consistently supported funding of an annual quota of no more than Illinois has proposed would doom this for the construction of physical bar- 140,000 EB immigrant visas and more bill. He knows that it would doom this riers and strengthening security on our than 500,000 applicants of Indian de- bill. southern border. I will continue to sup- scent who are asking for permission to To what avail? To what end? What port those efforts and believe that they move forward with EB–2 green cards good would it do to doom this bill? are important, but I cannot support the and their lives? The fact still remains that regardless President unilaterally deciding to take What the Senator from Utah has sug- of where we put the overall number for money that has been appropriated for gested is that we shouldn’t increase the employment-based green cards, we still one purpose and diverting that money 140,000 annual cap. I think that is have a problem in that we are treating for another purpose. wrong. If you follow Senator LEE’s pro- people from India unfairly, arbitrarily, The system of checks and balances posal and do exactly what he says— and discriminatorily. This has impacts established by the Founders gives Con- give these visas only to those who are everywhere. In Illinois today, there are gress the power to protect our author- waiting in line who are of Indian de- over 40,000 green card applicants, plus ity on our own. That is what this reso- scent and give no visas to the rest of their spouses and children, who are lution does, and I urge my colleagues

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.030 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5875 to support it by voting to override the in the affirmative, the joint resolution, am prepared to. One of them told me a President’s veto. on reconsideration, fails to pass over story. He is a physician from my home- VOTE ON S.J. RES. 54 the veto of the President of the United town of Springfield, IL. He brought his The PRESIDING OFFICER. The States. 12-year-old daughter along with him, a question is, Shall the joint resolution The Senator from Illinois. beautiful young girl. (S.J. Res. 54) pass, the objections of the Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I asked He said: Senator, I am waiting in President of the United States to the unanimous consent before the rollcall line. I don’t know if I will ever get a contrary notwithstanding? to be recognized to make a unanimous green card. What is going to happen The yeas and nays are mandatory. consent request. I would like to take with my daughter when she reaches The clerk will call the roll. that opportunity now, unless there is age 21? She can no longer be my de- The bill clerk called the roll. some other item of business before the pendent and stay in the United States. Mr. THUNE. The following Senators Senate. What is going to happen to her? Is she are necessarily absent: the Senator The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is supposed to go back to India? In the from Tennessee (Mr. ALEXANDER), the none. meantime, how is she going to go to Senator from Louisiana (Mr. CASSIDY), The Senator from Illinois. college? What is her status in this the Senator from Texas (Mr. CORNYN), UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—S. 2603 country? the Senator from Texas (Mr. CRUZ), the Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, let’s These are perfectly legitimate ques- Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON), start with math, basic math, Andrew tions. I have an answer for all of these the Senator from Kansas (Mr. MORAN), Yang math. Here is what it boils down questions, and I will tell you what it is. and the Senator from Georgia (Mr. to. Each year, we have 140,000 employ- First, we lift the 140,000 cap. That is PERDUE). ment-based visas issued in the United what is holding us back here. Why is Further, if present and voting, the States—140,000. A decision was made 140,000 of these EB visas a year a magic Senator from Tennessee (Mr. ALEX- several years ago that politicians were number? It is not. We are a nation of ANDER) would have voted ‘‘yea,’’ the playing favorites, picking countries 350 million people. We have at least a Senator from Louisiana (Mr. CASSIDY) that would get more of one and more of million legal immigrants coming in would have voted ‘‘nay,’’ the Senator another, and so they put in country each year. To expand the cap for those from Texas (Mr. CORNYN) would have quotas, country caps—7 percent. I will who are seeking the EB visas beyond voted ‘‘nay,’’ and the Senator from do the math, being a liberal arts law- 140,000 to people with skills who are al- Texas (Mr. CRUZ) would have voted yer. It is about 10,000 per year, per ready living in the United States and ‘‘nay’’. country—no more than 10,000 per coun- who want to stay here and continue to Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the try, per year, if 7 percent of the total is work is perfectly reasonable to me. Senator from New Jersey (Mr. BOOKER), our cap. That is what my bill proposes, and it the Senator from California (Ms. HAR- The problem is obvious. There are does two other things. This bill also RIS), the Senator from Minnesota (Ms. some 520,000 people of Indian descent in says that we are not going to count KLOBUCHAR), and the Senator from the United States who came here le- your dependents when it comes to the Vermont (Mr. SANDERS) are necessarily gally on H–1B visas, for example, who annual quotas. So if it is 140,000, we are absent. have worked here for a period of time, talking about the actual bread- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there and who now want to stay in the winners—140,000. If you are married, any other Senators in the Chamber de- United States. From this Senator’s have a spouse and two children, you siring to vote? point of view, you are welcome. We are not seeking four of these visas— The result was announced—yeas 53, need you. You brought extraordinary only one—and your spouse and depend- nays 36, as follows: skills that we need to our country. I ents automatically come along with [Rollcall Vote No. 325 Leg.] want you to stay. But many have found you, in my bill. They are not counted YEAS—53 that they get into a queue that is so against the 140,000. Baldwin Hirono Rosen long, and because of the limitations of The third point: When you make ap- Bennet Jones Rubio the cap, they can’t even imagine living plication, it freezes in place, for legal Blumenthal Kaine Schatz Blunt King Schumer long enough to ever get the green card reasons, the status of your dependents. Brown Leahy Shaheen they are waiting for, the green card So if it takes 2 or 3 years, and that Cantwell Lee Sinema that can ultimately lead to citizenship. daughter of yours becomes 21 years of Cardin Manchin Smith Senator LEE comes to the floor with age, it is no different—she is still going Carper Markey Stabenow Casey Menendez a bill, and his bill says as follows: We to come in with you based on your ap- Tester Collins Merkley Toomey are going to take care of those waiting plication. Coons Murkowski Udall in line, which is primarily over half a To me, that is a reasonable way of Cortez Masto Murphy Duckworth Murray Van Hollen million of Indian descent, and we will approaching it. I have said to my Durbin Paul Warner close down immigration from other friends in the Indian-American commu- Feinstein Peters Warren countries during this period of time, nity, in the Indian community in Illi- Gillibrand Portman Whitehouse Hassan Reed Wicker EB–2 visas. So it would be to the ben- nois: I am not against your being here. Heinrich Romney Wyden efit of those of Indian descent, who are I want you to be here. I have an ap- NAYS—36 the vast majority of those waiting in proach that will allow you to be a part line, but at the cost of every other of our future. You have been an impor- Barrasso Fischer McSally Blackburn Gardner Risch country in the world that has anyone tant part of America to this point. I Boozman Graham Roberts who can come in and qualify for an EB– want you to continue to be, and my ap- Braun Grassley Rounds 2 visa. Even his approach that I just de- proach will allow it. Burr Hawley Sasse Senator LEE of Utah comes to the Capito Hoeven Scott (FL) scribed—if you follow it through, at Cotton Hyde-Smith Scott (SC) the end of 10 years, there would still be floor and says: DURBIN, if you lift that Cramer Inhofe Shelby 165,000 people of Indian descent still 140,000 cap, you will doom this bill. Crapo Johnson Sullivan waiting in line in 10 years. That is not I have just spoken to him, and I have Daines Kennedy Thune Enzi Lankford Tillis fair. It is not right. several times. I will not doom this bill Ernst McConnell Young Last Sunday, I had a meeting in if he will support it. If he, as a Repub- NOT VOTING—11 Schaumburg, IL. As I came to the lican, will gather support for this bill, meeting—it was a Democratic Party we can lift the number of people who Alexander Cruz Moran Booker Harris Perdue breakfast—there were about 200 people will be eligible under these skilled im- Cassidy Isakson Sanders standing with signs with my name on migrant visas to be part of America’s Cornyn Klobuchar them. That will wake you up on a Sun- future. We can do that together. The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this day morning. They were there to say: I am finding, even as I talk to Repub- vote, the yeas are 53, the nays are 36. DURBIN, don’t stop LEE’s bill. lican colleagues here, that they feel we Two-thirds of the Senators voting, a I met with many of them afterward. should be opening up the skilled visa quorum being present not having voted I would have met with all of them. I opportunities for legal immigration.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.007 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5876 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 The sentiment is growing, and it never would have had where they were out of their temporary visas, and they should. I want people who have real born. That is the key to what is dif- are forced to return to a country they skills that they either learned in the ferent about this country and why we left behind long ago—a country that, in United States or earned in the United should honor it. many cases, their children don’t know States to be part of the growth of our Let’s not apologize for increasing and have never known. economy and the future and part of legal immigration, particularly of peo- To repeat, the amendment that I America. When it comes to diversity, ple with proven skills. Let’s celebrate offer today and that has been the sub- count me in. that they want to be part of America’s ject of some of my colleague’s remarks My mother was an immigrant to this future. this afternoon in his unanimous con- country, brought here at the age of 2. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- sent request consists of nothing more Her son stands right here with a full- sent that the Judiciary Committee be than the Fairness for High-Skilled Im- time government job. That is the discharged from S. 2603 and that the migrants Act, of which my colleague American dream, right? I basically be- Senate proceed to its immediate con- from Illinois was once a leading spon- lieve in immigration, and I believe in sideration; further, that the bill be sor, and a series of H–1B reforms that the diversity of America. But what will considered read a third time and passed he himself has long sought to enact. If not work and what will not succeed is and the motion to reconsider be consid- passed, it would provide relief to many the notion that we can somehow favor ered made and laid upon the table with hard-working families from both his just one group from one country at the no intervening action or debate. State and for mine. Yet he objects. As expense of every other country. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there he objects, he offers up something else We found that what has happened objection? that he knows cannot possibly get since Senator LEE started moving for- The Senator from Utah. close to passing this body by unani- ward with this is we have people from Mr. LEE. Mr. President, reserving mous consent. Yet we can do that a variety of different countries around the right to object, the request the today. We can do that right now if he the world saying: You mean you are Senator is describing is not one that would lift his objection. He knows that going to cut us off entirely? We can’t can pass the body and certainly is not I cannot, and I will not, and on that have any EB–2 visas for 10 years? You one that can pass this body unani- basis, I object. are saying that is going to apply to mously. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ob- Canada, Mexico, the European nations, He is absolutely right. My friend and jection is heard. and all of Asia as well? That is unfair. distinguished colleague from Illinois is The Senator from Illinois. Why would you cut us off to give op- correct in noting that I have had con- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I would portunity to those from India? That versations and negotiations with Re- like to make two points regarding the isn’t fair. publicans, and I have also had con- comments from my friend from Utah. I We have to have a more balanced ap- versations and negotiations with know he has to leave for another ap- proach. I think my approach resolves Democrats. I have been working on pointment. that and will solve that. I ask Senator this for nearly 9 years. At every mo- The first point I want to make is that LEE to consider it. ment, we have made concessions to what I support today is what I intro- I would also say to him—in the people on both sides of the aisle. duced and voted for when 68 Senators, course of bringing this measure to the I wish the solution he is offering Democrats and Republicans, passed a floor, Senator LEE has been negoti- today were something that could allow comprehensive immigration reform ating with Members of his own polit- us to pass the Fairness for High-Skilled bill, which he opposed. ical party. That is all right. I under- Immigrants Act. Alas, it is not. I hope that shows my good faith and stand that. I have been in this business I would note that it is not as though intent when it comes to this issue. I for a while. But he should be talking to this is something new or objectionable am not just thinking of something people on both sides of the aisle. What or even something that the passage of today that has never been considered he has given are so-called carve-outs to which would amount to a concession on on the Senate floor. It has passed on the 140,000. I probably wouldn’t argue his part. For one thing, the Fairness the Senate floor in a previous Senate, with any single carve-out in substance for High-Skilled Immigrants Act is a and I think it can pass again with your if he wants to give them to nurses or bill that he was an original cosponsor active support. medical professions, but each time he of in a previous Congress. This is his The second point I want to make is makes a carve-out to the 140,000, he bill. You might ask what is different this. For us to have dueling unanimous lengthens the long waiting period for about the bill he championed a few consent requests and both to object in those of Indian descent. years ago and the substitute amend- this debate is really unfair to the peo- As far as I am concerned, the real an- ment I put forward earlier today. The ple who have gathered in this Gallery swer is to increase legal immigration answer is that, aside from a short sub- today, as well as those who are fol- to the United States. My bill would do section that temporarily alleviates lowing this debate on television with that. It will take the country caps off, nursing shortages in parts of this coun- literally the fate of their family and take the 140,000 cap off. It would open try, the only thing we have changed is future again in our hands. the door for those who have been wait- that we have added a variety of new I would like to ask you a favor to ing in line—and many have for years, if provisions to combat some abuse in the consider the following. When Senator not decades. Stop discriminating H–1B program. KENNEDY objected on your behalf yes- against their children. Through no As I have said, these provisions are terday, or the day before, in a similar fault of their own, they have been drawn almost verbatim from the Dur- manner, he suggested that we push this stuck in the line with them. Their bin-Grassley H–1B reform bill, of which issue forward for a hearing in the Sub- legal status shouldn’t change. And my colleague from Illinois has long committee on Border Security and Im- don’t count the dependents—the been the lead Democratic cosponsor. migration of the Committee on the Ju- spouses and children—against the The only other thing that has diciary where we both serve. That com- quota, whatever the number might be changed from the time when the Sen- mittee is not overworked. It considered in the future. ator from Illinois would have stood by one bill this year and no amendments. I think that is a reasonable way to do my side instead of in opposition and So let us try to prevail on the chair- this, but to do that, you have to accept helped to pass this bill is the problem man of that subcommittee to have a one premise: that immigration is good that he sought to solve when he sup- hearing on this subject and to bring for America. I believe it is. I believe it ported this bill. That very same prob- out all the facts before the sub- always has been. I think the diversity lem still exists and has gotten worse. committee and the full committee in of this country is its strength. People As I indicated earlier, there are 40,000 the hopes that we can find some sort of come from every corner of the Earth, green card applicants in Illinois alone, reasonable, bipartisan compromise. If ready to make great personal and fam- plus there are thousands of children you will join me in that request, I hope ily sacrifices so that they and certainly stuck in this awful backlog. These are we can prevail on Senator GRAHAM and their children will have a chance they individuals whose children are aging Senator CORNYN.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.033 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5877 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- This bill has 365 votes on the House this is necessary. I don’t believe a hear- ator from Utah. floor right now. This bill would become ing is necessary. Mr. LEE. Mr. President, I thank my law right now, would pass out of the I am never going to object to simply colleague for his constructive observa- Senate and would pass out of the Sen- holding more hearings on it, and if that tions there. With respect to the Gang ate in a form that would be passed out is what the chairman of the Committee of 8 legislation, yes, it passed through of the House of Representatives, ulti- on the Judiciary is inclined to do, I am this body, and, yes, I voted against mately, right now but for this objec- certainly not going to interfere with that, as did a number of my colleagues. tion. that. In the meantime, I am going to My view is, that was a piece of legisla- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- continue to do everything I can to get tion that while it entailed a lot of work ator from Illinois. this thing passed. It is ready to pass. It by a lot of people who were trying to Mr. DURBIN. The Senator from Utah is ready to pass right now. I am going make things better, it was doomed at is my friend, and we have worked close- to continue to find every way possible the outset for failure because the mes- ly together on important legislation. I to get this the consideration it de- sage of that bill and of those who were trust him and respect him, though we serves. pushing it was essentially you either disagree on some of the merits on this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- pass all of this bill and all of its re- issue. ator from Virginia. forms—a large number of which and What I think I heard was an offer, Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, I am the majority of which I agreed with—or which I am going to accept, of a good- coming to the floor to speak on a dif- you pass nothing. We were literally faith, bipartisan request of the Com- ferent subject, but I do want to ac- told that. It is either this entire pack- mittee on the Judiciary to have a hear- knowledge that this is an issue I follow age or it is nothing. We spent weeks in ing on this measure. It will be the first as well. I actually cosponsored Senator the Committee on the Judiciary debat- hearing on it, and I think it is long LEE’s bill. I do hope what my friend ing it and discussing it. I personally overdue. from Illinois proposed, in terms of a proposed dozens of amendments to In terms of the comprehensive immi- process—that that process will take that. gration reform, I don’t want to dwell place and that we can get this legisla- What emerged at the end of that on history, but we went through hun- tion, or a variation thereof, passed from the committee was a—this has dreds of amendments in Judiciary and through the Senate; that we deal with been 6 years, so my colleague will for- scores of amendments on the floor. Ev- this issue is something I hear a lot give me if I don’t remember the exact eryone had their day in court and their from my constituents in Virginia—spe- numbers. It was about a 700-page bill. opportunity to come up with a good cifically, Northern Virginia. When we got to the floor, what we de- idea, and, yes, it did come down to one Again, although no piece of legisla- bated and discussed was substituted bill at the end. You had to vote yes or tion is perfect, I think the direction out at the last minute. What we ended no. I voted yes, and he voted the other Senator LEE has put forward is one I up getting was another bill that was, as way. carefully considered before I cospon- I recall, 1,200 pages long. It was a dif- This bill is not even close to it in sored the legislation. Again, the only ferent bill. terms of deliberation and in terms of way we are going to get this resolved is The message was the same with both amendments and that process. So let’s if we go through this process. Nobody of them. This is a package deal. You ei- start the right way. Let’s have a hear- on the Senate works harder on immi- ther reform all of what this bill re- gration issues and with more passion forms and do it at once or you get none ing. You have the majority party on and willingness to get to yes on an of it. Many of the sponsors of that leg- the committee, so I am not going to issue than the Senator from Illinois, so islation made clear that they would op- pull anything over on you, but let’s do I thank him for his work as well. pose any smaller effort. it. I believe this is exactly the opposite For the people who are following this TRIBUTE TO VICTORIA BRAHM of the type of solution that will work. and saying: Well, how did that end? Let Mr. President, I came down here What is going to work here is if we us say to them it ended by both of us today to address the question I came start with incremental, step-by-step agreeing to pursue a committee hear- for, to actually continue the tradition legislation. If we start with something ing on this important subject as soon of my friend Senator Ted Kaufman. I the Senator from Illinois has himself in as possible and appealing to the chair had the distinction of serving here as a the past sponsored, both as to the Fair- of the Committee on the Judiciary to staff member for a long time and filled ness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act ask for that hearing. in for a few years when Senator Biden itself and as to the substance, the nuts The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- became the Vice President of the and bolts of the Grassley amendment— ator from Utah. United States. he has been on the cutting edge of sup- Mr. LEE. Mr. President, I thank my What Senator Ted Kaufman did was porting both of those things. If not friend, the Senator from Illinois, and I he came, during his tenure in the Sen- here, where? If not us, who? If not now, appreciate his dedication to detail and ate, on a regular basis, came to this when? This is what we need to do. I am to the hard work he has put into the floor and highlighted the contributions going to continue to come to the floor. area of immigration and reform. of exceptional Federal employees. He I am going to continue to seek unani- Yes, you are right. That was a dif- highlighted the work they do every day mous consent and to pass this every ficult process. It went through 6 years to make our Nation and communities way I can. ago, and I commend you, even though safer, healthier, and stronger. As to my colleague’s suggestion with you and I reached different conclusions I came to the floor earlier this year regard to a committee hearing. This as to the ultimate outcome of that leg- to congratulate three Virginians who hasn’t, of course, been the topic of islation. were recognized by the Partnership for committee hearings in the past, and it My point there is simply to say: It is, Public Service as finalists for the Serv- has been fully discussed. I would, of and properly should and always is, ice to America Medals. Within the course, welcome any further com- going to be the case that it can be easi- world of Federal employees, this award mittee action that the chairman might er to get something done that is more may not be as well known as the Os- choose to hold, and I would be happy to narrowly focused. In this case, we have cars, but the award, the Service to have any committee action that, of a bill the Senator from Illinois has America Medals, are known as the course, isn’t mine to offer or give, but himself cosponsored in the past. It has ‘‘Sammies.’’ I would always prefer more consider- been modified by another provision During my time on the floor earlier, ation of the Fairness for High-Skilled that he has also sponsored in the past. when I spoke about the Virginians who Immigrants Act than less. So if that is We should be able to do this one. were nominated, I spoke about Ambas- what we have to do, great, but I don’t It is not my place to commit on be- sador Michael Kozak from Arlington, believe any further factual develop- half of the Committee on the Judiciary Kara De Castro from Haymarket, and ment is necessary here. or its chairman whether we are going John Wagner from Ashburn. Each of Just for the record, I want to state to have hearings. I reiterate my view these public servants have made sig- this bill is ready to pass right now. that no further factual development of nificant contributions to our national

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:39 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.035 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5878 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 security, as well as to global peace and colleague from South Carolina, Sen- achieve the goal of diversifying our work- human rights. We are indebted to them ator SCOTT. The legislation they intro- force and ensuring more underrepresented for their contributions, and I congratu- duced is called the FUTURE Act. students are entering STEM fields. The mandatory funds included in Title III, late them again for their much de- The FUTURE Act would provide a 1- Part F, were originally established by the served recognition as finalists. year reauthorization of the mandatory College Cost Reduction and Access Act for Unfortunately, none of this year’s funding for HBCUs and other minority- the years of 2008–2009, retained in the Higher winners hail from Virginia. Still, I serving institutions that already ex- Education Opportunity Act of 2008, and then want to congratulate the 2019 Federal pired on September 30. This is a com- extended until 2019 in the Health Care Edu- Employee of the Year, Victoria Brahm monsense bipartisan fix that is fully cation and Reconciliation Act of 2010. All from Wisconsin. Ms. Brahm is a career paid for, and it would allow us to keep three pieces of legislation were passed in the House and Senate on a bipartisan basis show- public servant who has spent more our commitment to institutions across ing support for this crucial stream of fund- than 37 years working in the VA sys- the country that are educating histori- ing. tem. cally underrepresented and under- However, this stream of funding is sched- Since 2015, she has served as the di- served students. uled to expire September 30, 2019. Therefore, rector of the Tomah VA Medical Cen- Virginia is home to five outstanding it is imperative that this bill passes both ter. When she arrived, the center was HBCUs whose funding would be pre- Chambers and becomes law before the expi- struggling with unsafe medical prac- ration date. Again, I ask that you cosponsor served by this legislation: Virginia S. 1279 and help institutions of higher edu- tices, high staff turnover, and other State University, Norfolk State Uni- cation, HBCUs in particular, continue to pro- issues impacting the quality of care versity, Hampton University, Virginia vide the much needed services to the stu- that veterans were receiving. In the Union University, which I was proud, dents on our campuses. years since her arrival, there has been prior to my tenure in government, to With all good wishes, a rise in patient satisfaction and a dra- serve on the board of, and Virginia Uni- WILLIAM R. HARVEY, matic drop in the use of opioids and versity of Lynchburg. All told, these President. other prescription pain relievers. institutions received nearly $4 million Under Director Brahm’s leadership, NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY, in funding last year that is now at risk September 5, 2019. preventable inhospital complications unless we pass the FUTURE Act. Hon. MARK WARNER, have also dropped significantly, and I have letters of support here from U.S. Senate, the center has risen from one of the the Presidents of Hampton, Norfolk Washington, DC. worst ranked hospitals in the VA sys- State, and Virginia Union. These let- DEAR SENATOR WARNER: On behalf of Nor- tem to the top 10 percent. This remark- ters highlight the FUTURE Act and folk State University, I ask your support in able turnaround that is making life the importance of this funding to the cosponsoring S. 1279, the Fostering Under- graduate Talent by Unlocking Resources for better for our veterans is due in many representative universities. Education (FUTURE) Act sponsored by Sen- ways to the work of Ms. Brahm. Con- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- ator Doug Jones (D–AL) and Senator Tim gratulations, Ms. Brahm, and thank sent that these letters be printed in the Scott (R–SC). This bipartisan, bicameral bill you for your service. RECORD. would extend important mandatory funding Congratulations, as well, to all of There being no objection, the mate- for education in the sciences, technology, en- this year’s award winners who hail rial was ordered to be printed in the gineering, and mathematics (STEM) in Title from around the country, not just RECORD, as follows: III, Part F of the Higher Education Act of 1965 until September 30, 2021. Washington, DC. While the Federal HAMPTON UNIVERSITY, The mandatory funding included in Title Hampton, VA, July 16, 2019. workers we recognize today are excep- III, Part F, was established in 2008 by the Hon. MARK WARNER, tional, the truth is they are not the ex- College Cost Reduction and Access Act. The U.S. Senate, ception. Federal employees across the funding was later extended through author- Washington, DC. izations in the Higher Education Oppor- country dedicate their lives to serving DEAR SENATOR WARNER: I am writing to re- the country, to protecting its people, quest that you cosponsor S. 1279, the Fos- tunity Act of 2008, and the Health Care Edu- cation and Reconciliation Act of 2010. All and to making sure our tax dollars are tering Undergraduate Talent by Unlocking three pieces of legislation passed in the properly spent. Resources for Education (FUTURE) Act House and Senate on a bipartisan basis with sponsored by Senator Doug Jones (D–AL) and Unfortunately, this commitment has strong congressional support. Current fund- Senator Tim Scott (R–SC). This bipartisan, not been honored by the Trump admin- ing will expire on September 30, 2019. istration. In addition to the longest bicameral bill was written to extend impor- Title III, Part F, benefits Historically government shutdown in history, Fed- tant mandatory funding for education in the Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and sciences, technology, engineering, and math- eral workers have endured pay freezes, other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) ematics (STEM) in Title III, Part F of the by providing mandatory funds that allow hiring freezes, bad-faith collective bar- Higher Education Act of 1965 until Sep- gaining, and other efforts to dismantle these institutions to support their students tember 30, 2021. in the STEM fields. Whether it be innova- our nonpolitical civil service. This is Title III, Part F, benefits Historically tions in cybersecurity, or emerging research wrong. It is also unsustainable, and ul- Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and in deep space exploration, Norfolk State Uni- timately it will be everyday Americans other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) versity has a longstanding history of pre- who suffer the consequences of this ad- by providing mandatory funds that allow paring students to excel in the STEM fields. ministration’s actions. If you drive out these institutions to better serve their stu- Title III, Part F is a critical resource that dents in the STEM fields. As I am sure you has played an important role in NSU’s suc- and drive down the morale of our work- are aware, a STEM education is crucial to force, the American people end up with cess. the growth and continued development of Continued funding for Title III, Part F is a less good product. our economy. Hampton University and other crucial to the growth and continued develop- I commit that I will continue fight- institutions have benefited greatly from the ment of our economy and this University. ing in the Senate to ensure this coun- availability and usage of these funds. Your cosponsorship and vote of support for try is keeping its commitment to Fed- A report released by the White House Na- S. 1279 is very much needed, and will rep- eral workers because they deserve so tional Science and Technology Council stat- resent a sound investment in America’s fu- much better than the treatment they ed that the ‘‘national benefits of a strong ture. STEM foundation cannot be fully realized have received recently. Sincerely, until all members of society have equitable JAVAUNE ADAMS-GASTON, PH.D., FUTURE ACT access to STEM education and [until] there President. Mr. President, let me now, for a cou- is much broader participation by those his- ple of moments, turn to another impor- torically underserved and underrepresented VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY, tant issue where I fear we are not keep- in STEM fields . . .’’ The report goes on to August 6, 2019. ing our commitments, and that is our highlight the importance of diversity in the Hon. MARK WARNER, commitment to our Nation’s histori- workplace leading to more engaged, innova- U.S. Senate, tive, and higher-performing organizations. cally Black colleges and universities, Washington, DC. Hampton serves all students, some of whom DEAR SENATOR WARNER: I write to you also known as HBCUs. are low-income, first generation post-sec- today to ask you to cosponsor S. 1279, the I will talk briefly in support of legis- ondary students of color; an underserved Fostering Undergraduate Talent by lation introduced by my colleague population. One benefit of funding through Unlocking Resources for Education (FU- from Alabama, Senator JONES, and my Title III, Part F is that it dlrectly helps TURE) Act sponsored by Senator Doug Jones

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:02 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.037 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5879 (D–AL) and Senator Tim Scott (R–SC). This Senate scorekeeping report which I call that CHIMPS, which is used by the bipartisan, bicameral bill was written to ex- filed this week in the CONGRESSIONAL Appropriations Committee. That is so tend important mandatory funding for edu- RECORD. The CONGRESSIONAL RECORD is we are not using the very important cation in the sciences, technology, engineer- available to anyone online. This report wording of ‘‘changes in mandatory pro- ing, and mathematics (STEM) in Title III, could show overspending by commit- Part F of the Higher Education Act of 1965 grams,’’ actually making changes in until September 30, 2021. tees and a number of other things. This mandatory programs without people Title III, Part F, benefits Historically is the first such report since I filed a knowing. The Appropriations Com- Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) current law budget for the fiscal year mittee uses those changes in manda- and other Minority-Serving Institutions 2020 as authorized by the Bipartisan tory programs to offset new discre- (MSIs) by providing mandatory funds that Budget Act of 2019. tionary spending each year. In recent allow these institutions to better serve their This week’s filing tracks the Senate’s years, the Budget Committee has students in the STEM fields. STEM edu- adherence to that current law budget cation is crucial to the growth and continued ratcheted down the total amount of and provides up-to-date budgetary in- changes in mandatory programs that development of our economy, and my insti- formation about the Federal Govern- tution has benefited greatly from the avail- can be used in a given year in an effort ability and usage of these funds. ment for Congress and for the public. to hold the line on spending. For the first time, a copy of the A report released by the White House’s Na- This year’s total limit is $15 billion— tional Science and Technology Council said scorekeeping report can be found on that the ‘‘national benefits of a strong STEM the Senate Budget Committee’s that is extra spending—and the report foundation cannot be fully realized until all website to allow the American people tracks the Appropriations Committee’s members of society have equitable access to to better track Congress’s fiscal deci- adherence to that limit thus far. I STEM education and [until] there is much sion making. That is new. know that many of my colleagues broader participation by those historically Let me repeat that. For the first share my desire to finally end the prac- underserved and underrepresented in STEM time, a copy of the scorekeeping report tice of using changes in mandatory fields . . .’’ The report goes on to highlight programs to inflate spending. the importance of diversity in the workplace can be found on the Senate Budget leading to more engaged, innovative, and Committee’s website to allow the Fourth, the report tracks the amount higher-performing organizations. Like my American people to better track of emergency and overseas contingency institution, HBCUs and MSIs serve all stu- Congress’s decision making. operations spending in appropriations dents, but primarily serve students who are Since this is the first time the com- bills. Emergency spending is not con- low-income, first generation, and students of mittee is posting the scorekeeping re- strained by discretionary spending lim- color, which would directly help achieve the port on its website, I want to take this its that I talked about, but it has the goal of diversifying our workforce and ensur- opportunity to explain the report for potential to cost hundreds of billions of ing more underrepresented students are en- those taxpayers who are concerned, as tering the STEM fields. dollars each year. To date, for fiscal The mandatory funds included in Title III, I am, about our country’s fiscal health year 2020, there has been $8 million Part F were originally established by the and want to learn more. worth of emergency budget authority College Cost Reduction and Access Act for I hope the people will look at the fu- adjustments. These adjustments are the years of 2008–2009, retained in the Higher ture months and each monthly report. the result of agriculture provisions and Education Opportunity Act of 2008, and then A current-law budget allows the Senate the additional supplemental appropria- extended until 2019 in the Health Care Edu- to enforce the budget spending levels tions for the Disaster Relief Act of cation and Reconciliation Act of 2010. All projected under current law. While it 2019. Emergencies don’t count against three pieces of legislation were passed in the will not put us on a path to stabilizing House and Senate on a bipartisan basis show- the budget, but they do go to increased our debt and deficits, like the levels debt. There is no requirement to adjust ing support for this crucial stream of fund- approved by the Senate Budget Com- ing. the budget to pay for emergencies. This stream of funding is scheduled to ex- mittee earlier this year would do, it pire September 30, 2019, so it is imperative tells the Congress to stop making our Fifth, included in the report is infor- that this bill passes both Chambers and be- fiscal situation worse—to stop making mation provided to me by the Congres- come law before the expiration date. Again, our debt and deficits worse. sional Budget Office that compares I ask that you co-sponsor S. 1279 and help me The scorekeeping report covers six topline spending and revenue amounts, continue to provide the much-needed serv- primary areas. First, it shows whether known as aggregates, to the current- ices to the students on my campus. authorizing committees are sticking to law budget levels. The report shows Sincerely, their allocation, which is just a fancy there is currently enough room on the HAKIM J. LUCAS, PH.D., term for each committee’s spending al- spending aggregate to accommodate all President & CEO. lowance. We track that for the 1-year, outstanding regular appropriations and Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, re- 5-year, and 10-year periods for this re- no additional room for revenue loss. cently our colleagues in the House port. For the October 2019 report, all passed this important legislation on a Finally, the report includes the cur- committees are in compliance and no rent balances of the Senate’s pay-go bipartisan basis. Now it is time for the breaches have been recorded since I Senate to do the same. Let’s pass the scorecard. Pay-go stands for ‘‘pay as filed the current-law budget on Sep- you go,’’ a unique concept around here. FUTURE Act without further delay tember 9. That is good news, though and then work together on a com- In other words, was it paid for? If not, with our debt approaching $23 trillion, the report shows it on the scorecard. prehensive reauthorization of the High- going a month on the budget is not er Education Act. The Senate’s pay-go scorecard, which something to pat ourselves on the back is enforced with a 60-vote point of As Dr. Harry Williams, president of over, but it is a good start. the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, order, tracks the budgetary effects of Second, the report tracks whether legislation moving through Congress said, America’s HBCUs ‘‘simply do not the Appropriations Committee is ad- affecting mandatory spending and rev- have the time to wait for Congress to hering to the discretionary spending enues. This report shows a zero balance work out a deal.’’ So let’s put our limits imposed by the most recent Bi- on the Senate’s pay-go scorecard due to broader policy differences aside for now partisan Budget Act. For fiscal year the filing of new budgetary levels just and honor the commitments we made 2020, the limit on regular discretionary last month. to HBCUs and other minority-serving spending for accounts in the defense institutions before Congress’s inaction category is $666.5 billion, and for the As chairman of the Senate Budget harms students in Virginia and around accounts in nondefense category, it is Committee, I try to come to the floor the country. $621.5 billion. Since full-year appropria- regularly to sound the alarm about our With that, I yield the floor. tions measures for this fiscal year have country’s unsustainable fiscal course. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- not yet been enacted, the only budg- We are on a perilous path with the Con- ator from Wyoming. etary effects recorded are for advanced gressional Budget Office projecting our BUDGET SCOREKEEPING REPORT or permanent appropriations made debt and deficits to skyrocket in the Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, I rise to an- through our prior law. coming years. Debt is the cumulative nounce a new use of an old require- Third, the scorekeeping report tracks amount. Deficits are the annual ment. I rise to speak about the latest changes in mandatory programs. We amount.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.009 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5880 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 The deficit for the fiscal year that EXECUTIVE SESSION John Boozman, Thom Tillis, Steve ended September 30 reached $984 bil- Daines, Roger F. Wicker, Pat Roberts, lion. While revenues were up $133 bil- John Barrasso, Richard Burr, Shelley lion over the previous year, or 4 per- PROTOCOL TO THE NORTH ATLAN- Moore Capito, Roy Blunt, Mike Rounds, Mike Crapo, James E. Risch. cent, compared to fiscal year 2018, TIC TREATY OF 1949 ON THE AC- spending was up $338 billion, or 7 per- CESSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF f cent, over the prior year. I can say that NORTH MACEDONIA LEGISLATIVE SESSION again. We overspent $984 billion. Reve- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Mr. MCCONNELL. I move to proceed nues were up $133 billion, but spending move to proceed to executive session to to legislative session. was up $338 billion. The Congressional consider Calendar No. 5, Treaty Doc. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Budget Office projects the budget def- No. 116–1. question is on agreeing to the motion. icit for the current fiscal year to top $1 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The motion was agreed to. trillion. That is another trillion dollars question is on agreeing to the motion. f added to our already high debt. That is The motion was agreed to. overspending in spite of increased reve- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The trea- EXECUTIVE SESSION nues. ty will be stated. The senior assistant legislative clerk We are long overdue for an honest EXECUTIVE CALENDAR conversation about the country’s fi- read as follows: nances. I hope the Senate scorekeeping Treaty document No. 116–1, Protocol to the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I report can contribute in a small way to North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Acces- move to proceed to executive session to sion of the Republic of North Macedonia. that conversation. I believe the more consider Calendar No. 441. we allow the public to follow the dol- AMENDMENT NO. 946 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The lars, the more pressure there will be on Mr. MCCONNELL. I have an amend- question is on agreeing to the motion. all of us to finally address our over- ment at the desk and ask the clerk to The motion was agreed to. spending problem. I truly hope all report. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Members view this report and come to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the nomination. see it as a valuable tool for getting our clerk will report the amendment. The senior assistant legislative clerk books in order. The senior assistant legislative clerk read the nomination of Andrew P. read as follows: Bremberg, of Virginia, to be Represent- I yield the floor. The Senator from Kentucky [Mr. MCCON- ative of the United States of America The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- NELL] proposes an amendment numbered 946 to the Office of the United Nations and jority leader. to Treaty Doc. No. 116–1. Other International Organizations in APPROPRIATIONS The amendment (No. 946) is as fol- Geneva, with the rank of Ambassador. lows: CLOTURE MOTION Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, our Democratic colleagues insist that de- At the end add the following. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ‘‘This Treaty shall be effective 1 day after send a cloture motion to the desk. spite their political differences with the date of ratification.’’ President Trump, they are still pre- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask for the yeas pared to tackle important legislation ture motion having been presented and nays on my amendment. and do our work for the American peo- under rule XXII, the Chair directs the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a ple. clerk to read the motion. sufficient second? The senior assistant legislative clerk Well, next week they will have an op- There appears to be a sufficient sec- read as follows: portunity to prove it. Congress has ond. CLOTURE MOTION fallen badly behind schedule on appro- The yeas and nays have been ordered. We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- priations. It has been a month since AMENDMENT NO. 947 TO AMENDMENT NO. 946 my Democratic colleagues filibustered ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby government funding on the floor, have a second-degree amendment at move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- blocking defense funding and a pay the desk. nation of Andrew P. Bremberg, of Virginia, raise for our servicemembers. We need The PRESIDING OFFICER. The to be Representative of the United States of to get moving. The country is watch- clerk will report the amendment. America to the Office of the United Nations ing. It is time to make progress. The senior assistant legislative clerk and Other International Organizations in Ge- neva, with the rank of Ambassador. So in just a moment, I will file clo- read as follows: Mitch McConnell, Rick Scott, Roger F. ture on motions to proceed to two gov- The Senator from Kentucky [Mr. MCCON- Wicker, Tim Scott, John Hoeven, Deb ernment funding bills, setting up votes NELL] proposes an amendment numbered 947 Fischer, Thom Tillis, Cindy Hyde- for next week. to amendment No. 946. Smith, Steve Daines, James M. Inhofe, In order to meet Democrats halfway, The amendment (No. 947) is as fol- Lindsey Graham, John Boozman, Mike the first House shell we will vote on lows: Crapo, James E. Risch, Richard Burr, Shelley Moore Capito, Jerry Moran. will be a package of domestic funding Strike ‘‘1 day’’ and insert ‘‘2 days’’ f bills. If we can get bipartisan support CLOTURE MOTION to take up that domestic funding bill, Mr. MCCONNELL. I send a cloture LEGISLATIVE SESSION we will stay on it until we complete it. motion to the desk. Mr. MCCONNELL. I move to proceed I hope Chairman SHELBY and Senator The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- to legislative session. LEAHY can work together to craft a bi- ture motion having been presented The PRESIDING OFFICER. The partisan substitute amendment. under rule XXII, the Chair directs the question is on agreeing to the motion. Afterward, we will turn to a second clerk to read the motion. The motion was agreed to. The senior assistant legislative clerk package, including the defense funding f that our Armed Forces and com- read as follows: manders need, especially in this dan- CLOTURE MOTION MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR gerous time and considering current We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- THE DEPARTMENTS OF COM- events, plus resources for other prior- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the MERCE AND JUSTICE, SCIENCE, ities such as the opioid epidemic. So we Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby AND RELATED AGENCIES FOR will be voting next week, and I urge all move to bring to a close debate on treaties THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING SEP- of our colleagues to move in that direc- Calendar No. 5, Treaty Document No. 116–1, TEMBER 30, 2020—MOTION TO Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 PROCEED tion. Let’s make good on all the talk on the Accession of the Republic of North about bipartisanship and finally make Macedonia. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I progress toward funding the govern- Mitch McConnell, David Perdue, John move to proceed to Calendar No. 141, ment. Cornyn, John Thune, John Hoeven, H.R. 3055.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.039 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5881 The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. 2740, a bill making appropriations for the De- dead and our wounded, and we free our BRAUN). The clerk will report the mo- partments of Labor, Health and Human Serv- men and women who are held captive. tion. ices, and Education, and related agencies for This is a matter of American honor and The senior assistant legislative clerk the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and promise. So, too, is the principle that for other purposes. read as follows: Mitch McConnell, David Perdue, John we stand by our allies, that we do not Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 141, Cornyn, John Thune, John Hoeven, abandon our friends. H.R. 3055, a bill making appropriations for John Boozman, Thom Tillis, Steve The decision to abandon the Kurds the Departments of Commerce and Justice, Daines, Roger F. Wicker, Pat Roberts, violates one of our most sacred duties. Science, and related agencies for the fiscal John Barrasso, Richard Burr, Shelley It strikes at American honor. What we year ending September 30, 2020, and for other Moore Capito, Roy Blunt, Mike have done to the Kurds will stand as a purposes. Rounds, Mike Crapo, James E. Risch. blood stain in the annals of American CLOTURE MOTION Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous history. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I consent that the mandatory quorum There are broad strategic implica- send a cloture motion to the desk for call be waived. tions of our decision, as well. Iranian the motion to proceed. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without and Russian interests in the Middle The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- objection, it is so ordered. East have been advanced by our deci- ture motion having been presented The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- sion at a time when we were applying under rule XXII, the Chair directs the ator from Utah. maximum pressure on Iran. By giving clerk to read the motion. f them a stronger hand in Syria, we have The senior assistant legislative clerk TURKEY AND SYRIA actually weakened that pressure. Rus- read as follows: sia’s objective to play a greater role in CLOTURE MOTION Mr. ROMNEY. Mr. President, I rise the Middle East has also been greatly We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- today to address the current situation enhanced. The Kurds, out of despera- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the in Syria. tion, have now aligned with Assad. So Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby First, I welcome the Vice President’s America is diminished, and Russia, move to bring to a close debate on the mo- announcement of a cease-fire, which Iran, and Assad are strengthened. tion to proceed to Calendar No. 141, H.R. will prevent further loss of life. I hope So I ask how and why this decision 3055, a bill making appropriations for the De- the agreement is honored. But at the was reached. I serve on the Foreign Re- partments of Commerce and Justice, heart of this matter is a central ques- Science, and related agencies for the fiscal lations Committee, and given the Syria year ending September 30, 2020, and for other tion of why these terms and assurances decision taken by the administration, I purposes. were not negotiated before the Presi- might be forgiven for wondering why Mitch McConnell, David Perdue, John dent consented to withdraw our troops. our committee even exists. I say this Cornyn, John Thune, John Hoeven, Let me briefly recount what has hap- because apparently the decision to John Boozman, Thom Tillis, Steve pened in the past 7 days since the leave Syria was made without con- Daines, Roger F. Wicker, Pat Roberts, United States announced our with- sultation with the committee or even John Barrasso, Richard Burr, Shelley drawal. The Kurds, suffering loss of life with the committee chairman and Moore Capito, Roy Blunt, Mike and property, have allied with Assad, Rounds, Mike Crapo, James E. Risch. ranking member. Russia has assumed control of our pre- Just 3 weeks ago, our subcommittee Mr. MCCONNELL. I withdraw the vious military positions, and the held hearings to receive an extensive motion to proceed. United States has been forced in many analysis of the conditions and the way The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- cases to bomb our own facilities to pre- forward in Syria. It was presented to us ator has that right. vent their appropriation by Russia and by the Syria Study Group, a bipartisan, f Turkey. congressionally mandated commission MAKING APPROPRIATIONS FOR The announcement today is being tasked with providing an in-depth as- THE DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, portrayed as a victory. It is far from a sessment of the conditions in Syria and HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, victory. Serious questions remain to provide recommendations for Amer- AND EDUCATION, AND RELATED about how the decision was reached ican strategy going forward. So far as I AGENCIES FOR THE FISCAL precipitously to withdraw from Syria am aware, the administration made no YEAR ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, and why that decision was reached. effort to contact those who attended 2020—MOTION TO PROCEED Given the initial details of the cease- that hearing or to speak with the Syria fire agreement, the administration Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Study Group to be able to understand must also explain what America’s fu- move to proceed to Calendar No. 140, the content in their extensive pub- ture role will be in the region, what H.R. 2740. lished report. happens now to the Kurds, and why The PRESIDING OFFICER. The I ask whether it is the position of the Turkey will face no apparent con- clerk will report the motion. administration that the Senate—a sequences. Further, the cease-fire does The senior assistant legislative clerk body of 100 people representing both not change the fact that America has read as follows: political parties—is to be entirely ab- abandoned an ally. Adding insult to sent from decisions of the magnitude Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 140, dishonor, the administration speaks H.R. 2740, a bill making appropriations for just taken in Syria. the Departments of Labor, Health and cavalierly, even flippantly, as our ally Some argue that we should not have Human Services, and Education, and related has suffered death and casualty. Their been in Syria in the first place because agencies for the fiscal year ending Sep- homes have been burned, and their there was not a vote taken by the Sen- tember 30, 2020. families have been torn apart. ate to engage in war there. I disagree. CLOTURE MOTION We know the truth about our Kurd Congress has given the President legal Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I allies. They lost 11,000 combatants in authority and funding to fight against send a cloture motion to the desk for our joint effort to defeat ISIS. We terrorists in Syria. the motion to proceed. dropped bombs from the air and pro- However, for purposes of argument, The cloture motion having been pre- vided intelligence and logistics behind even if one believed that no authoriza- sented under rule XXII, the Chair di- the lines. The Kurds lost thousands of tion had been given, that is really ir- rects the clerk to read the motion. lives, and 86 brave Americans also lost relevant to the decision as to the with- The senior assistant legislative clerk their lives so tragically. drawal once we have allied with a peo- read as follows: It is argued that the Kurds were ple—the Kurds—committed to defend CLOTURE MOTION fighting for themselves. Of course they them, and together defeated ISIS. Once were. That is the nature of an alliance. you jump in the ocean to save a drown- We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the We fight together, each pursuing our ing soul, you don’t turn around with Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby own vital interests. America leaves no the excuse that you didn’t have to move to bring to a close debate on the mo- soldier behind, often at great cost in jump in in the first place. It is a mat- tion to proceed to Calendar No. 140, H.R. blood and treasure. We recover our ter of commitment.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 21:11 Nov 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD19\OCTOBER\S17OC9.REC S17OC9 S5882 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 Others argue that we should just get swers. What has happened in Syria longstanding grievances, as the Presi- out of a messy situation like this. Mid- should not happen again. And we, the dent has said repeatedly, betrays both dle East, they say, has had wars going Senate, must take action to make sure our national security interests in the on forever; just let them have at it. that it does not. Middle East and our own American There is, of course, a certain logic to I yield the floor. ideals. that position, as well, but again, it ap- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- It is shameful that the White House’s plies only to the original decision as to ator from Rhode Island. statement that was released after the whether we should have gone into Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise this President’s call with Erdogan did not Syria. Once we have engaged and made afternoon to discuss the situation in even criticize the planned Turkish in- the commitments we made, honor, as Syria. Let me commend my colleague cursion or warn of potential con- well as self-interest, demands that we Senator ROMNEY for his very thought- sequences if it went forward. It wasn’t not abandon our allies. ful and very timely and very important until the following day, after a bipar- It has been suggested that Turkey comments. tisan and international outcry, that may have called America’s bluff—tell- We all recognize that the situation in the President began to express any ing the President they were coming no Syria is highly fluid. I think it is im- concerns about Turkish plans while at matter what we did. If that is so, we portant to state the case with respect the same time reiterating his invita- should know it, for it would tell us a to the President’s decision to acquiesce tion for Erdogan to visit the White to President Erdogan’s offensive great deal about how we should deal House next month. It is impossible to against the Kurds. The President’s de- with Turkey now and in the future. read the President’s initial statements cision is a disaster for our partners in Some have argued that Syria is sim- as anything but acquiescence. ply a mess, with warring groups, sub- the fight against ISIS and United Furthermore, the President’s state- groups, friends and allies shifting from States foreign policy more broadly. ments over the following days have While I welcome the temporary one side to the other, and thus we had sought to distance the United States cease-fire announced a short time ago to exit because there was no reasonable from the Kurds and the foreseeable and hope that a permanent cease-fire path for us to go forward. Are we in- can be achieved, it does not absolve consequences of his decision with re- capable of understanding and shaping President Trump of his responsibility gard to ISIS and the humanitarian complex situations? Russia seems to for his betrayal of our Kurdish partners challenges in northern Syria. have figured it out. Are we less adept The violence we have witnessed over and his role in unleashing violence and than they, and are our principles to be the last few days in northern Syria has instability in northern Syria. It is not jettisoned when we find things get clear whether Turkey made any con- been the direct result of an impulsive messy? cessions as part of the deal struck with President who has made decisions that The administration claims that none the U.S. delegation or whether Kurdish are counter to the advice of our na- of these reasons are accurate. Instead, forces will comply. If not, I am con- tional security experts. President the President has said that we left to cerned that additional violence is like- Trump has often expressed disdain for fulfill a commitment to stop endless ly to follow and we will have little le- the career military, diplomatic, and in- wars, to bring troops home, to get verage to prevent it. In fact, there is a telligence professionals our Nation re- them out of harm’s way, and perhaps to quote attributed to the Turkish For- lies on to develop and implement sound save money. I find these reasons hard eign Minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, by national security policy. We are once to square. Why? Well, we withdraw the White House reporter for CNN. She again seeing the ramifications of his 1,500 troops in Syria, but we are adding quotes the Turkish Foreign Minister as incompetence. 2,000 troops in Saudi Arabia. All to- saying: The President’s stunning ignorance taled, we have some 60,000 troops in the This is not a cease-fire. We will pause the of the complexities in the Middle East Middle East. operation for 120 hours in order for the ter- was on full display over the weekend in Assuming for the sake of under- rorists to leave. We will only stop the oper- a tweet in which he seemed not to have standing that getting out of endless ation if our conditions are met. an understanding of the location or wars was the logic for the decision, So, indeed, even this supposed cease- identity of the separate Kurdish groups why would we take action so precipi- fire may not materialize as a cease- with whom we have partnered in Syria tously? Why would we not warn our fire. and Iraq. ally, the Kurds, of what we were about But the reality is that the blood of The Secretaries of Defense and State to do? Why would we not give them many Kurds is on President Trump’s both insist they were consulted by the time to also withdraw or perhaps to dig hands, and thousands of hardened ISIS President on this decision. Maybe so, in to defend themselves? Clearly, the prisoners could be let loose as a result but it is clear that he didn’t heed their Turks had a heads-up because they of his hasty and uninformed decision. advice or that of our national security were able to start bombing within mere President Trump’s decision to aban- experts. I am not aware of any security hours. I simply don’t understand why don our close partners also strengthens experts who advocated for standing by the administration did not explain in the hand of Erdogan, Putin, Assad, and while the Turkish military carried out advance to Erdogan that it is unaccept- Khamenei. Those are not friends; they an offensive against our Kurdish part- able for Turkey to attack an American are, in many cases, adversaries and an- ners. ally. Could we not insist that together tagonists. In fact, on October 2—just 4 days be- we develop a transition plan that pro- Members of the administration claim fore the phone call between Presidents tects the Kurds, secures the ISIS pris- that the U.S. Government opposed the Trump and Erdogan—the State Depart- oners, and meets the legitimate con- Turkish incursion, but the President’s ment’s Special Envoy for Syria, Joel cerns of Turkey, as well? Was there no own actions and statements make clear Rayburn, publicly warned: We cer- chance for diplomacy? Are we so weak that he gave Erdogan a green light. tainly think that a conflict along the and so inept diplomatically that Tur- The President ordered our military to Turkey-Syria border would serve the key forced the hand of the United begin a phased withdrawal from Syria interests of all the bad actors in the States of America—Turkey? I believe last December—a decision that prompt- conflict and in the surrounding re- it is imperative that public hearings be ed the resignation of former Secretary gion—whether that is ISIS or al-Qaida held to answer these questions, and I of Defense Mattis and that surely gave or the Iranian regime or what have hope the Senate will be able to conduct the Turks the impression that he you. those hearings next week. would fold when pressed by Erdogan. That was President Trump’s Special I note in closing that I also hope the Not surprisingly, he did. In that phone Envoy. cease-fire agreement is honored and call, Erdogan was pushing against an The President’s capitulation to that Turkey ends its brutal killing, but open door. He knew it. The President Erdogan runs directly counter to all of I note that lives are already lost and knew it. That is why the Turks went the administration’s stated objectives American honor has already been tar- across the border. in Syria. The administration’s stated nished. We once abandoned a redline; Stating that we should let the Kurds strategy is to, No. 1, defeat ISIS; No. 2, now we abandon an ally. We need an- and Turks fight it out because of their force the removal of Iranian-aligned

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.051 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5883 foreign forces from Syria; and No. 3, be viewed as a model of how to leverage Congress and the international com- achieve a negotiated political settle- an ‘‘economy of force’’ commitment of munity must send a clear, bipartisan ment to the Syrian civil war in line U.S. military capabilities to achieve signal to the President that we do not with the United Nations’ resolutions. strategic effects, thereby obviating the condone the Turkish incursion into The security and humanitarian ca- need for large numbers of U.S. per- northern Syria or the President’s deci- tastrophe that President Erdogan has sonnel to be put at risk. In Syria, rel- sion to abandon the Kurds. unleashed with Trump’s approval will atively small numbers of U.S. forces on President Trump must rescind the in- make achieving any of these goals the ground enabled a Kurdish and Arab vitation to President Erdogan to visit nearly impossible. The violence in ground force of approximately 60,000 the United States in November. We northern Syria over the last few days personnel known as the Syrian Demo- should not welcome an autocrat who is has led to the displacement of at least cratic Forces, or SDF. With our help, responsible for endangering our troops 160,000 people, the suspension of hu- the SDF liberated millions of innocent on the ground in Syria, the release of manitarian assistance into affected civilians from the violent oppression of dangerous ISIS fighters, the mass dis- areas, the escape of an unidentified ISIS and defeated the so-called phys- placement of hundreds of thousands of number of ISIS detainees, and the hor- ical caliphate. Some have estimated civilians, and violence against non- rific killings of unarmed civilians, in- that the SDF lost more than 10,000 combatants, which, if reports are true, cluding incidents that Secretary of De- fighters taking on ISIS. may amount to war crimes. fense Esper has described as potential It is true that many who joined the The United States does not need to war crimes. SDF did so to liberate their homes stand alone in condemning the violence Just weeks ago, at our urging, the from ISIS; however, it is also true that in northeastern Syria. Our partners in SDF removed personnel from border even after their homes were liberated, the counter-ISIS coalition share our areas, relocated heavy weapons, and the SDF—Kurds and Arabs alike—con- concerns about the damage the Turk- destroyed defensive fortifications in tinued to pursue ISIS all the way ish incursion has caused to our efforts northern Syria. They did so even in the through the Euphrates River Valley, to defeat ISIS and the potential hu- face of a continued Turkish military where the last remnants of the phys- manitarian costs. The United States buildup along the Syrian border be- ical caliphate were ultimately defeated should take the lead within the United cause they believed the United States earlier this year. Nations and NATO to organize efforts and Turkey had agreed to a security Those in the SDF were not only to denounce Turkey’s actions and re- mechanism in good faith that could fighting for themselves; they were also strain the strategic consequences. We avoid bloodshed. It seems that they fighting for us. They were fighting to must also redouble diplomatic efforts were wrong to put their faith in this help ensure that there were no more to seek a negotiated settlement to the administration. ISIS-directed or -inspired attacks like Syrian civil war that is consistent with The Turkish incursion into Syria has those carried out in Paris, Brussels, U.N. Security Council Resolution No. undermined years of effort against ISIS Istanbul, Orlando, and San Bernardino. 2254 and that protects the equities of by the United States and the inter- After the SDF successfully liberated the SDF and civilians who are living national community. Despite the the territory that was formerly con- under their protection. elimination of the so-called physical trolled by ISIS, it also maintained cus- Unfortunately, the greatest impedi- ment to securing our national security caliphate, ISIS is not defeated. Former tody of more than 10,000 ISIS detain- interests in northern Syria and bring- Secretary of Defense Mattis correctly ees—including more than 2,000 foreign ing about an end to the conflict there warned over the weekend that ISIS will fighters—even when many of their appears to be President Trump’s inabil- resurge if pressure against the group home countries refused to take them ity to grasp the strategic significance isn’t sustained. back. Given the sacrifices of the SDF Perhaps even more damaging than of his actions. in the fight against ISIS, it was par- I yield the floor. the current situation in Syria is the ticularly insulting for President Trump The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- long-term impact of the President’s de- to imply that the SDF may now be re- ator from Iowa. cision on our standing in the world and leasing ISIS detainees to get us in- Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I rise to our ability to achieve the goals out- volved, in his words, in the ongoing vi- call attention to the dire situation lined in the national defense strategy olence in northern Syria. that continues to unfold in northern of his administration. The President’s As our military leaders will tell you, Syria. shortsighted abandonment of the Kurds our partnership with the SDF was not Turkey embarked on a reckless and is a strategic disaster that raises grave only built on our shared opposition to brutal intervention on October 9, 2019, doubts among our allies and our friends ISIS but also on the trust established ostensibly to clear northern Syria of about whether the United States under between our forces in their fighting terrorist elements. It has ironically this President can be counted on to de- shoulder to shoulder against a common dubbed this operation ‘‘Peace Spring.’’ fend our shared interests. enemy. They deserved more from the The departure of U.S. forces in the Given the diverse national security United States and President Trump in days just prior to this incursion left challenges we face, we must attract the face of demands by Turkey’s auto- nothing between Turkish military and rely upon partners who share our cratic leader. Given all the SDF has forces and the predominantly Kurdish interests. Our military leaders often sacrificed in furtherance of the fight militia, known as the Syrian Demo- promote the virtues of the ‘‘by, with, against ISIS and our partnership, our cratic Forces, or SDF. Up until the and through’’ approach, especially betrayal of their trust is nothing short cease-fire agreement that was an- when it comes to counterterrorism. of appalling. nounced today, the SDF bore the brunt Since 9/11, we have built partnerships Again, just days before President of the Turkish assault. with local forces throughout the Trump’s fateful call with Erdogan, the The Kurds are deeply stung by what world—from North and East Africa, to Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense they see as America’s abandoning the Middle East, and across the Pa- for the Middle East publicly stated: them—this after a long, hard, and suc- cific—to enable efforts against violent ‘‘We, quite frankly, could not carry out cessful fight against ISIS. extremist groups. We have sought to our national defense strategy if it At the height of its power, ISIS con- apply exquisite capabilities only pos- weren’t for partners like [the SDF].’’ trolled territory larger than the United sessed by the U.S. military to support I fear that the President’s impulsive Kingdom. As many Americans know, local partners doing the preponderance abandonment of the Kurds has done ISIS directed and inspired terrorist at- of the fighting and dying in service to significant and lasting damage to the tacks on our homeland, in commu- our shared objective of containing and standing of the United States in the nities across the United States, and defeating such violent groups. world and has shaken the confidence of staged numerous attacks against our Contrary to President Trump’s asser- our allies and partners. We are losing troops overseas. ISIS’s branches across tions, we are not engaged in an endless valuable partners in a region where the the globe have conducted unimaginable war in Syria. In fact, the Kurd’s part- United States has critical national se- atrocities, including targeting Chris- nership with the United States should curity interests. tians, Yazidis, Kurds, and others who

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.053 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5884 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 opposed ISIS’s corrupt interpretation The legislative clerk proceeded to person escape the country and make it of Islam. Examples of these atrocities call the roll. thousands of miles back to Saudi Ara- are the heartbreaking stories of so- Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I ask bia with there being no record of his called Yazidi brides who were forced unanimous consent that the order for doing so? into marriages with ISIS fighters. the quorum call be rescinded. News reports in 2018 suggest that the They were raped and brutalized repeat- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Saudi Arabian Government knew about edly and were forced to decide whether objection, it is so ordered. Mr. Noorah and these other fugitives to abandon their children or to make f and potentially helped them flee jus- an escape. There are multiple stories of tice. ISIS’s terror that has been inflicted on SAUDI FUGITIVE those with disabilities, such as babies DECLASSIFICATION ACT OF 2019 I have five children. I cannot imagine being suffocated simply for being born Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I have the grief I would feel if one of them was with Down syndrome. come to the floor to fight for answers— taken from me, and the person respon- The United States, together with a answers that are long overdue. sible somehow managed to evade the coalition of over 30 countries, engaged In 2018, my hometown newspaper, justice system. It is almost impossible in a campaign to rid the world of ISIS The Oregonian, identified a handful of to comprehend the anger and the help- and to restore peace and stability to cases where Saudi nationals accused of lessness and the frustration any parent that region. Yet it was not a nation- serious crimes in the United States, would feel in a situation like this. state that bore the brunt of the fight- like manslaughter and sexual assault, I met with Fallon’s mom Fawn, and ing against ISIS. The Kurds and the fled the country and escaped American while she and all of Fallon’s loved ones Arabs who made up the Syrian Demo- justice. have borne this miscarriage of justice cratic Forces took the fight to the Since then, The Oregonian has iden- with extraordinary grace, they are just heart of the caliphate. With the help of tified numerous similar cases—in fact, heartbroken. U.S. Special Operations Forces and air- almost two dozen such cases across the In addition to being heartbroken, strikes, the SDF liberated lands held United States. That includes 19 in just they are angry. They are outraged by by the terror group, imprisoned thou- the last 7 years. the notion that the person charged sands of terrorist fighters, and restored Today I want to tell the Senate with killing their daughter may have hope to hundreds of thousands who suf- about just one of those cases. just been able to escape scot-free and fered under ISIS rule. Three years ago, not far from my face no consequences for his action. In our fast-moving and quickly home in Southeast Portland, a young changing world, it is easy for some to woman had her life taken from her. For some time, I have been demand- forget the terrible threat ISIS once Fallon Smart was then a rising sopho- ing information from the Trump ad- posed while they were at their most more at Franklin High School, and she ministration. In my view, the victims powerful, but it would be wrong to was aspiring to be a teacher. By all ac- of these crimes, their families, and the think we can now allow ourselves to counts, she would have been a terrific American people are owed some essen- take our foot off of our enemy’s throat. teacher. tial answers. How did this happen? Even now, ISIS cells are seeking to She was 15, and according to every- What is the U.S. Government doing take advantage of the chaos in north- body who knew her, Fallon was warm about it? ern Syria to reconstitute and once and smart and friendly. She had her I have written the Department of again pose a direct threat to Ameri- whole life ahead of her. Justice. I have written the State De- cans right here in our homeland. According to police, she lost her life partment. I have written the U.S. Mar- You cannot watch what is unfolding when she was crossing the street in shals Service. I have written to the De- in Syria without being fundamentally front of stopped traffic, and a vehicle partment of Homeland Security. As far concerned about the security of our illegally swerved into the left-hand as I can tell, I would have gotten better friends and our neighbors. A recapital- lane and hit her at 55 or 60 miles per answers from the Saudi royal family ization of ISIS is a threat to us all. hour. Her mom was in a car half a themselves. It is for this reason that I have intro- duced a resolution which calls on the block away and ran to her daughter. In fact, when I asked Secretary of Department of Defense and the Depart- Fallon died in her mother’s arms, and State Mike Pompeo what he was doing ment of State to provide a plan within the car that hit her just sped away. to try to return the Saudi fugitives to A Saudi Arabian college student 30 days which will outline a strategy to the United States, basically what his named Abdulrahman Sameer Noorah ensure ISIS will never again threaten Department did is that we just got a later returned to the scene and was ar- Americans or our allies now or in the collective shrug of the shoulders. I sent rested. He was eventually charged with future. the Secretary of State a letter last De- This strategy will address the ongo- manslaughter in Fallon’s death and cember. He didn’t respond. ing threat that ISIS poses regionally then released on $1 million bail. The So I sent another letter in February. and globally and will outline the plan Saudi consulate posted his $100,000 I said: The State Department needs to to prevent an ISIS resurgence, contain bond, according to The Oregonian use all its resources and all the tools at ISIS expansion, mitigate the threat newspaper. its disposal to hold the Saudi Govern- In the United States, in our country, ISIS poses to the United States and our ment accountable. I asked whether our there was every expectation that Mr. allies, and describe how our gains Ambassador pressed the Saudi Govern- Noorah would get a fair shake from the against ISIS since 2014 will be further ment about this disturbing, shocking justice system. Our justice system was protected. pattern of Saudi nationals skipping working the right way here until 2 We cannot afford to take our eyes off bail. of this vital task of ensuring the last- weeks before Mr. Noorah was scheduled to go to trial. His tracking bracelet The State Department finally did re- ing and irreversible defeat of ISIS. We spond to my second letter. What I got must consolidate our gains to rid the was somehow cut, and he disappeared. Mr. Noorah has never stood trial for was a whole bunch of nothing. One of world of this terrible organization and Mr. Pompeo’s aides said that without insist on a sound strategy to ensure Fallon Smart’s death. Eventually, this spring, the State De- an extradition treaty, there wasn’t our success to that end. anything they could do about it. This Too many of our partner forces and partment confirmed in a letter to me is from a Secretary who tried to indeed American brothers and sisters that Mr. Noorah had returned to Saudi rebrand State as the ‘‘Department of in arms have fought and died in this Arabia. Swagger.’’ That swagger was nowhere fight, and we must ensure that those I felt then, and I do today, this raises to be found when it was time to protect sacrifices were not made in vain. an important and a serious question: I yield the floor. How does a foreign national charged innocent Americans. I suggest the absence of a quorum. with manslaughter, whose passport was Today, I am not writing any more The PRESIDING OFFICER. The seized, disappear from the United letters. I am here on the Senate floor clerk will call the roll. States without a trace? How does this asking for action—action today. I am

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Without have seen the injuries that people come classify any and all information re- objection, it is so ordered. home with, not to mention the amount lated to a key question: whether the The bill (S. 2635) was ordered to be of money that has been spent on all of Government of Saudi Arabia helped engrossed for a third reading, was read this as well. At a time when we face so any Saudi nationals escape the country the third time, and passed, as follows: many challenges, a lot of people are when those Saudi nationals were S. 2635 saying to themselves: Well, why do we awaiting trial or sentencing for a Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- have to be everywhere? Why do we criminal offense. resentatives of the United States of America in have to care? These people have been Let me just repeat that so there is no Congress assembled, fighting for a billion years. It is not confusion. The bill requires that the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. our problem. We need to focus on issues FBI Director and what is called the This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Saudi Fugi- here at home. DNI, or the Director of National Intel- tive Declassification Act of 2019’’. I do understand the appeal of that ar- ligence, would quickly—quickly—de- SEC. 2. DECLASSIFICATION OF ANY AND ALL IN- gument. I want to tell you that despite classify any and all information on the FORMATION RELATING TO ACTIONS how much I focus on these issues and issue of whether the Government of BY GOVERNMENT OF SAUDI ARABIA spend time on them, from time to time, Saudi Arabia helped any Saudi nation- TO ASSIST PERSONS IN DEPARTING UNITED STATES WHO WERE AWAIT- those arguments appeal to me. But als escape the country when those ING TRIAL OR SENTENCING IN then you have to analyze why we are Saudi nationals were awaiting trial or UNITED STATES. there to begin with and what it would sentencing for a criminal offense in the Not later than 30 days after the date of the mean in the short to long term to our United States. enactment of this Act, the Director of the country to just walk away from these I believe what I am asking for today Federal Bureau of Investigation, in coordina- obligations. That is what I hope to do must happen in the name of justice im- tion with the Director of National Intel- here today in a way that answers the ligence, shall declassify any and all informa- mediately. The American people de- question the gentleman asked me last serve answers. The people I represent tion related to whether the government of Saudi Arabia materially assisted or facili- Monday. I didn’t have time to get into at home in our neighborhoods in tated any citizen or national of Saudi Arabia all of this because I had an airplane to Southeast Portland want answers. in departing from the United States while catch, and these airlines don’t wait for These are not academic matters. This the citizen or national was awaiting trial or anybody. is not about a series of victimless sentencing for a criminal offense committed So here is the way I would explain it. crimes. in the United States. The first is that you have to tell people This is about manslaughter. It is Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, par- why we are there to begin with. Let me about rape. It is about a whole array of liamentary inquiry. tell you what this is not. This is not ugly offenses. This is about real people, With that action, has this bill now about an endless war or being some- real families—families who have suf- been passed? where for the rest of our lives. Frank- fered immeasurable pain. They deserve The PRESIDING OFFICER. It has. ly, it is not even about committing to see justice served. When individuals Mr. WYDEN. I suggest the absence of thousands of troops. The U.S. force who are charged with violent crimes— a quorum. presence in Syria was quite small. It no victimless crimes here, violent The PRESIDING OFFICER. The actually achieved an extraordinary crimes—manage to escape and when clerk will call the roll. amount with such a few number of peo- the United States fails to do much of The bill clerk proceeded to call the ple. anything about it, it undermines public roll. There were 2,000 special operators safety and it harms the U.S. justice Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I ask imbedded alongside thousands of Kurds system. unanimous consent that the order for and our international partners. Basi- If, as some of the press stories have the quorum call be rescinded. cally, it is an area that ISIS once suggested, the Saudi Government has The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without dominated. They literally controlled helped these alleged criminals escape objection, it is so ordered. the cities. The capital of the caliphate justice, the American people have the was once there at one point. They were TURKEY AND SYRIA right to be doubly concerned. Is the driven out. There was tremendous suc- Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, it is inter- public image of Saudi Arabia a higher cess, a real example of the sort of esting. When we come here, we seem to priority than the safety of American counterterror that these missions have think that everybody in America is citizens? successfully pursued. Any action by a foreign government reading the blogs and all the major The stated goal was, first and fore- to thwart our criminal justice system newspapers every morning. A lot of most, to stamp out and eliminate ISIS. would be an attack on our national se- people do, but some people have lives. The second was that our presence curity and our sovereignty. If that is They get up early. They go to work. would provide leverage when the time what has happened, then, all Ameri- They listen to the news from time to came for a Syrian peace settlement—a cans deserve to know. time, but they don’t follow it closely. settlement that would reflect our na- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- That is what they hire us to do and tional interests, which are primarily sent that the U.S. Senate proceed to they hire us to deal with as policy- three things. the immediate consideration of S. 2635, makers. The first is limiting Assad’s power. submitted earlier today. On this issue of Syria, it strikes me, The guy is a stone-cold criminal. This The PRESIDING OFFICER. The and it really did earlier this week when guy has gassed and murdered his own clerk will report the bill by title. I visited this gas station close to my people. There has to be some limits and The bill clerk read as follows: home that I frequent. It also has a lit- constraints to his power. A bill (S. 2635) to require the Director of tle convenience store with a coffee The second is to safeguard the Kurds. the Federal Bureau of Investigation to de- stand inside. A gentleman comes up to As you have heard others come to the classify any and all information relating to me and basically says: Why do we care floor and talk about, these people whether the government of Saudi Arabia as- about all the stuff that is happening sisted a citizen or national of Saudi Arabia fought with us. We told them: If you in departing the United States while the cit- there? You know, it is thousands of will do the ground-fighting and we help izen or national was awaiting trial or sen- miles away. These people have been you from the air and with logistics, we tencing for a criminal offense committed in fighting forever. Let them figure it are going to be here with you. They the United States, and for other purposes. out. Why do we have to be involved in did, and they lost over 10,000 people in There being no objection, the Senate all of this? that fight. They have been great part- proceeded to consider the bill. I will tell you that there is appeal to ners in that endeavor. We had a moral Mr. WYDEN. I further ask unanimous that argument. There really is. I un- obligation, not to mention a promise consent that the bill be considered read derstand why Americans feel that way. that we made.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.056 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5886 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 The third is to limit Iran’s influence. In practical terms, what it means is ability to conduct attacks against the Iran would love nothing more than to that Assad, literally, overnight, has United States, sometimes using third completely dominate Syria because it captured a third of the land of Syria at groups that they control, to either links them directly into Lebanon to no price and no concession. He had to blame the attacks on, to claim credit supply and support Hezbollah. It allows make no concessions, pay no price, do for the attacks, or, in some cases, to them to pivot over into Iraq to become nothing other than just send people up conduct them, because what this does the dominant power there. to take it. is it gives Iran the capability of at- Just imagine a Middle East in which To me, this doesn’t sound like we tacking the United States without fac- Iran is the dominant power in Lebanon, have imposed restraints on Assad. It ing international condemnation for the in Syria, and, of course, in Iran, and, sounds like he has just literally been attack—enough deniability—especially eventually, in Iraq, and, God forbid, in gifted control over a third of the na- from countries that are looking to not Bahrain, and with a growing influence tional territory at no concession and blame Iran anyway because it would in Yemen through the Houthis. They no price. He had to do nothing. force them to get out of the Iran deal. not only encircle Israel. They encircle How about safeguarding the Kurdish And they have gotten away with it. Saudi Arabia. It would be a nightmare. interests? I think that is self-explana- But one of the things that Iran has We are engaged in a campaign of tory. The Kurds have now been forced calculated in these attacks—one of the maximum pressure against Iran, and to align themselves with Assad, who, in things they have taken into the cal- the last thing you want to do in a max- the short term, may be fine, but once culation—is this: We believe the United imum-pressure campaign is to alleviate this is all over, I doubt very seriously States is trying to get out of the re- pressure, and having a greater influ- whether the Kurds will be treated well, gion; meaning, if we attack them, we ence in Syria would alleviate a lot of not to mention the Yazidi and the can hit them much harder than we ever pressure for Iran. That is the purpose Christian communities that the Kurds had before because they don’t want an- of our presence there. were protecting, who now are also other war. They are not going to hit us The administration’s and the Presi- under Assad’s rule. Suffice it to say back as hard. We can get away with dent’s decision has undermined every that nothing here has safeguarded more. single one of them. That is the only their interests. I submit to you that I am pretty con- way to talk about it. I think it has There is news today that the Vice fident that this decision has strength- done so in ways we are going to regret President and the Secretary of State ened that perception, not weakened it. for a long time. were able to go to Turkey and work out I fear what that can mean next. The first is the ISIS mission. There what is being called a ceasefire. I think This also increases Iran’s influence in are 10,000 ISIS killers being held in they deserve praise, along with the Iraq. If you are an Iraqi politician right now, whether you are a Shia or a jails and camps in northern Syria. The President, for pursuing that mission Sunni, and you have just seen this de- guards at those camps are not Ameri- because anytime that human lives are cision, you are thinking to yourself: cans. They are Kurdish guards. What spared from death in a war, that is We are next. And when the Americans happens when someone invades the cit- cause for celebration. ies that your family lives in? You send With all due respect, it does not ap- leave here at some point—at some point we will have to—the Iranians are people to go meet that enemy. That pear to me, however, that this is really going to become the most important means that they have been removing a ceasefire. It is more an ultimatum guards from the prisons to the group on the ground. because what Erdogan is basically say- In fact, there were reports yesterday frontlines. ing is this: Here is land that I intend to that there were these protests on the There are less and less guards in take. I intend to drive every Kurd out street and there were Iranian-linked these camps. Estimates are already of this area, and I intend for Turkey to militias with snipers on the rooftops that a large number of ISIS killers control this area in northern Syria as a operating in Iraq. These were not ele- have already gotten out, and they an- security zone, as he calls it. The only ments of the army or the police force. ticipate more to get out soon. Just thing he has agreed to as an ultimatum These were Iranian elements operating imagine 10,000 killers running loose, is that the Kurds can leave this area in Iraq. This has increased their influ- not to mention efforts by ISIS to break voluntarily in the next 5 days, or he ence in Iraq and their ability to deter- them out with less security. will move in and take it and kill them. mine the future of Iraq in a way that is By the way, this is a problem not just You can call it a ceasefire, but, frank- terrible for us, terrible for our allies, in Syria. It is a real problem in Iraq. ly, it doesn’t appear to have changed like Israel, and a great benefit to the About 200,000 refugees have already the strategic objective that Erdogan Iranians, not to mention that Syria amassed at the border. There is no way has for that region. creates an extraordinary land bridge Iraq can go through every single one of I certainly think that while it is good that the Iranians can now use to in- them and determine who is an ISIS news that it made some lemonade out creasingly continue to supply killer and who is a refugee who is com- of this lemon, nonetheless, these are Hezbollah in Lebanon and to increas- ing back. So you can suddenly see this cities in which not just Kurdish troops ingly supply their own militias just resurgence of ISIS spread and desta- but people and families are going to across the Golan Heights. bilize Iraq. So, suddenly, this evil have to leave now, and we are going to The irony in all of this, ironically, is movement that we had on the ropes have to be involved in helping to co- that I fear this decision actually makes and had become an insurgency—and, ordinate and guarantee that, which it likely that there is going to be a frankly, was already reemerging as an runs its own risks. war. I will tell you why. As I pointed insurgency—has just been given fuel to Ultimately, it is an ultimatum by out first, there is the Iranian attack operate in one, and now in two, coun- him saying: You have 5 days to leave calculation. This further strengthens tries. before I move in and kill you. their belief that they can get away How about the goal of providing le- How about limiting Iran’s influence? with even more brazen attacks because verage for a future settlement to re- First of all, clearly, Iran will now have the threshold for a U.S. military re- flect our interests? First of all, in re- more operating space in Syria. The sponse is higher than it has ever been straints on Assad’s power, think about lack of a U.S. presence there means because we are looking to get out, and it this way. Literally, overnight, when that Iran and its affiliated groups, par- this proves it. the Turks came in and the Kurds didn’t ticularly these Hezbollah shoots that What that can mean is they can mis- have us anymore, they were forced to are now in Syria, will have much more calculate it, and we are going to have cut a deal with Assad. So, suddenly, operating space. The stronger Assad is, to respond. Then, all of a sudden, you the Kurds are basically telling Assad’s the stronger Iran will be. Assad is a are in a real shooting war—not a ‘‘2,000 troops: Come up to the cities that we very close ally of the Iranians, and the person on the ground, working with the once had, and you now be the troops more space he controls, the more space Kurds’’ war, a real regional conflict. here to back us up. You take control of they have to operate. The other point is that all of our alli- them. That is what they had to do to Embedded in this, as you have no- ances around the world are built on se- avoid being slaughtered. ticed, is that Iran has developed this curity guarantees. In Eastern Europe,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.058 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5887 the NATO security guarantee in many I will tell you that, again, I think Part D of Medicare back in 2003 and the of these countries is a 300-, 400-, 500- what the Vice President and the Sec- importance of considering that history man force—a tripwire. It is not enough retary of State did today is noble. in regard to the importance of passing to stop a Russian incursion, but they There are lives that are going to be legislation this year in regard to high are there because if they were con- saved because now they have 5 days to drug costs. The reminder goes to my fronted by Russians, that would trigger leave those areas. But that doesn’t ad- colleagues who are up for election, a broader conflict. dress any of these other repercussions. based on the fact that the history of You could say the same about South In a blink of an eye, we completely un- the elections of 2000 and 2002 had con- Korea, our presence in Japan, the com- dermined and unraveled the very jus- sequences for people who weren’t aware mitments we have made to Israel, and tification for this operation and all of of the grassroots support for doing the troop presence we have now in the stated reasons we said we were something for prescription drugs and Saudi Arabia. It goes on and on and on. there. We had these 2,000 troops work- Medicare, as Part D turned out to be. Ask yourself: After this, would any ing with the Kurds to keep ISIS from In this environment today, I don’t ally relying on the U.S. security assur- reemerging and to provide leverage in think there is proper concern that peo- ances be more or less confident of our the future Syrian settlement, to re- ple—the grassroots of America—are ex- assurances? I will tell you this. Less strain Assad’s power, to safeguard pressing the need to do something than 48 hours before this withdrawal Kurdish interests, our partner’s inter- about prescription drug prices, so I am decision was made, the Chairman of est, and to limit Iranian influence. going to spend my time doing what I the Joint Chiefs of Staff gave un- Every single one of those stated inter- just summarized for you going through equivocal assurances that we were not the history of 20 years ago versus now. going anywhere. The Chairman of the ests—that was our policy less than 2 I want to lower the cost of prescrip- Joint Chiefs of Staff, a general, Gen- weeks ago—has been wiped out. tion drugs for American seniors. I have eral Milley, said: We are there. We are One of my favorite questions in the spoken on this topic many times be- not going anywhere. These are all ru- hallway from the reporters is, What fore, and in my previous speeches years mors. Forty-eight hours later, this should Congress do now? What can we withdrawal announcement was made. do? Well, I think we are all searching and years ago, I said that we were de- With all due respect, this is not his to see what we can do to mitigate some livering on the promises of the last fault. I don’t blame him, if he believes of this damage. But I want to be honest three elections in a bipartisan manner that. What is his credibility now when with you—there are some mistakes and to help seniors who had waited far too he says anything like that to anybody some decisions that cannot be reversed. long for relief, and that relief came out else or when he warns someone not to There is some damage that cannot be as Medicare Part D. do something against us because we mitigated, and I fear that some of That speech was more than 15 years will act in return? Maybe his credi- these things are a part of it. We will ago. We have been here before. In 2003, bility isn’t shot—and I would warn our spend time thinking about it. I think I was leading the last piece of bipar- enemies not to view it that way—but I there might be some opportunities for tisan entitlement reform, the creation can tell you it certainly hasn’t been the administration in the weeks and of the Medicare Part D Program that strengthened by this. One last point on months to come to do something about was entitled the ‘‘Medicare Moderniza- this. You know, Russia and China are it, but right now, I think we need to tion Act of 2003.’’ going all over the world trying to come prepare ourselves for the consequences, Now here we are again on the cusp of up with an ad hoc, anti-U.S. coalition— for what this is going to mean in the meaningful, bipartisan action in regard a coalition of countries that are sanc- long term. to prescription drugs. This action tioned—to try to get around the So it was kind of a long answer to would fulfill the promises that I and dollarization of the global economy, a give someone at a gas station when I many of my colleagues and the admin- coalition to fight against the impedi- had a flight to catch in 45 minutes and istration, meaning the Trump adminis- ments against Chinese spyware and they were in a hurry as well, but I hope tration, made to the American people technology, and a coalition to limit that for the people back home and po- that we are going to do something our presence in one part of the world or tentially around the country who have about prescription drug pricing. We another. The argument they make to an interest in this topic, I was at least should be reminded that promises made these countries is, Why are you aligned able to shine some light on why some ought to be promises kept. with America? They are unreliable. of us do not support this decision. I want to remind my colleagues that They are unreliable partners. They will It isn’t because we favor endless wars history does not have to repeat itself. cut on you as soon as it makes sense or want invasions. It is because while Hopefully, this will help rid the grid- domestically for them to do so or this may be popular when first pre- lock that delayed us from delivering somebody else gets elected and has a sented to people, when you view it in Medicare Part D nearly two decades different opinion. its totality and entirety, sometimes ago. Well, ask yourselves, has that argu- what is popular in the short term is not As we all know, the Medicare Mod- ment been strengthened or weakened? good for America’s national security in ernization Act was signed into law in Have we made it easier or harder for the long term, and it is my fear that November of 2003, but the process of Russia and China to make that argu- this is one such example. creating Part D began long before the ment, including the countries that we I suggest the absence of a quorum. President actually signed the bill. We have basing agreements with now and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The could go back more than a decade—but including the countries that we are clerk will call the roll. that is not the most important part of meeting with every single day and ask- The bill clerk proceeded to call the it—but Congress was voting on what ing them: Don’t buy Russian weapons. roll. would become prescription drug cov- Don’t install Chinese technology and Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask erage as early as 1988. Obviously, it spyware in your Safer City Initiatives unanimous consent that the order for didn’t become law. so they can spy on you and ultimately the quorum call be rescinded. Suggestions for how to help seniors on us. Don’t allow them to take over The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without with prescription drugs came from your port facilities or operate objection, it is so ordered. every corner throughout the next dec- rotationally based military forces in Mr. GRASSLEY. I ask unanimous ade after those 1988 votes. Yet the pro- your national territory. We will help consent to speak as in morning busi- posals weren’t enacted, so we failed to you with those things instead. ness. bring any kind of comprehensive Well, I can tell you that when China The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without change to Medicare. and Russia go to them the next time objection, it is so ordered. Under President Clinton, prescription and say that America is unreliable, HEALTHCARE drug pricing reform gained national at- they will have one more exhibit to Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, the tention, just like it has national atten- show them as evidence to prove it. purpose of my speaking today is to re- tion today because President Trump That is why I say this decision has an mind my colleagues about some his- has made it one of his premier goals of impact that goes well beyond Syria. tory as it relates to the adoption of reducing drug prices.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.059 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5888 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 So going back to the Clinton admin- erage was a big issue, and it was a big notice, but this time it was for our ac- istration as part of the Balanced Budg- issue probably more for Republicans complishments, and Republicans et Act of 1997, Congress created a because we controlled the U.S. Senate. gained four Senate seats in that 2004 forum to bring more attention to the We lost five incumbent Republican election. prescription drug program under Medi- Senators because people didn’t pay at- I am now standing here again, more care. That was called the National Bi- tention to this being a major issue. than 15 years later, to make the very partisan Commission on the Future of Hence, to remind you what I opened same point. It seems like deja vu. Medicare. with, I don’t want Senators making American seniors don’t care about After a year’s worth of work and re- that same mistake this year. party politics any more now than they search, the Commission voted on three The American people were obviously did in 2003. When it comes to almost recommendations in 1999, including a disappointed in the lack of action back any issue, but particularly healthcare prescription drug benefit. However, the in 2000, and it showed, but as we have issues, what they care about is having recommendations failed to receive the to do when there is grassroots support access to affordable medication. mandated supermajority of members’ like there was then, we marched on to Once again, I am leading a bipartisan votes, so no formal recommendations find a path forward, but building con- effort to enact much needed entitle- were ever submitted to Congress be- sensus was not easy. ment reform, and once again some of cause that was the rule of the Commis- I was chairman during part of that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle sion at the time. It had to be a super- time between the years 2000 and 2003. I are resisting compromise. Once again, medicine has changed since the last en- majority of the members of the Com- wasn’t chairman all that time because titlement reform I led. Let me remind mission. the Senate flipped to a Democratic ma- Facing mounting pressure from the jority when Senator Jeffords of you, prescription medication was not much of a part of the cost of medicine public in anticipation of the 2000 elec- Vermont changed from Republican to in 1965 when Medicare was passed. By tion, all of the major Presidential can- Democrat. Between the years 2000 and 2003, it had become a significant por- didates presented plans. President 2003, we held countless meetings and tion of the cost of medicine. That is Bush had suggested a new Federal sub- hearings on the status of Medicare and how we could come to an agreement to why people needed Medicare Part D. sidy to help low-income beneficiaries Pharmaceuticals are even more a part purchase drug coverage through pri- add Part D and bring Medicare into the 21st century. The gridlock seemed ines- of the practice of medicine today. Sci- vate insurers. entific advances have led to many new Vice President Al Gore, the Demo- capable. In 2002, the budget allowed for $350 and more effective treatments. How- cratic candidate, proposed a new vol- billion to reform the Medicare Pro- ever, they are often accompanied by untary benefit within Medicare to pro- gram, most of that going toward the very high costs. That means prescrip- tect chronically ill and low-income prescription drug reform that we were tion drug prices have skyrocketed, and beneficiaries against catastrophic ex- proposing. Partisan discord led to three Americans want Congress to act now so penses. Yet the Congress still couldn’t separate proposals being sent to the they can afford their lifesaving medica- reach a compromise, even though it Senate from House Republicans that tions. was very much discussed during that were subsequently voted down. Our seniors deserve better than the Presidential election, and it was in a As a result of the 2002 elections, Re- over 5-year delay in action we put lot of discussions in Senate races as publicans were back in the majority, them through last time—in other well. and I retook the gavel as chair of the words, 5 years before we finally passed At that time, the country was united Finance Committee. I promised at that something in 2003 called Part D of behind Medicare reform, but Congress time legislation that would address Medicare. They shouldn’t have to wait was divided on how or even if it should seniors’ concerns and be bipartisan so 5 years this time. Congress has been act, and it did not act. it would pass an almost evenly split here before. We want to make sure his- In the Finance Committee, the per- Senate. That was my goal. In the Fi- tory doesn’t repeat itself. I want to son that preceded me when I took over nance Committee, we went through the make sure it doesn’t repeat itself. I the chairmanship of the Finance Com- important and wide-ranging process of personally have been here before. I mittee, a person by the name of Bill creating what eventually became the have watched the opportunity to help Roth of Delaware, proposed two plans Medicare Modernization Act of 2003. patients slip away. Now, just like in to committee members in hopes that a I worked across the aisle, across the 2003, Americans want action on entitle- consensus could be reached. The first Capitol, and down Pennsylvania Ave- ment reforms. Now, just like in 2003, plan worked to fundamentally change nue to make sure the prescription the President supports action. Now, the Medicare Program. The proposal drugs and Medicare improvement bill just like back then in 2003, numerous included a universal drug benefit for struck the right balance, spending the proposals were floated and ultimately the Medicare Program with several money allocated to us by President fell short of the finish line. major contracting reforms. The re- Bush to be done in a fair and equitable We have another opportunity to de- forms would have permitted pharmacy way. A lot had changed in the practice liver meaningful reforms to help the benefit managers, insurers, and other of medicine since Medicare had been Part D program adapt to new innova- qualified firms to compete to manage signed into law 40 years before, in 1965, tions in the healthcare world. The bill the government drug benefit in a cost- and we needed to recognize that the that came out of my committee 19 to 9, effective way. practice of medicine had changed. My titled the ‘‘Prescription Drug Cost Re- Then-Chairman Roth also proposed a friend Senator Baucus, who was at that duction Act of 2019,’’ builds on the suc- scaled-back plan which would extend time the Democratic ranking member cessful programs we created in 2003. It prescription drug coverage to low-in- of my committee, and I were able to will lower beneficiary premiums by $6 come seniors and on the State level to thoughtfully pull together a Medicare billion and lower out-of-pocket costs those seniors facing catastrophic levels package by closing a big coverage gap by $25 billion. The bill will implement of spending. This second piece of the and doing that in the right way. The an out-of-pocket cap, eliminate excess Roth proposal was meant to be a back- Part D marketplace offered consumers payments, cap taxpayer subsidies, and stop—just a short-term, bipartisan better choice, better coverage, and bet- permanently repeal the doughnut hole bandaid on a gaping wound while nego- ter value. Of course, it was about time in Medicare Part D. It uses market tiations continued to find a longer that Congress had taken this action de- forces. Those market forces will term solution. manded by the grassroots of America incentivize manufacturers to lower list Despite the support from then-Presi- in a serious way. I said in 2003, ‘‘We all prices and report more accurate cal- dent Bill Clinton and the Republican know seniors don’t want politics, they culations of their rebate obligations. majority leader, Trent Lott, com- want prescription drugs,’’ and that In short, this is the right bill at the promise was elusive, and the Finance holds true today as we consider this right time. We should seize this oppor- Committee did not act before the No- issue. tunity to support actions that Ameri- vember election. So then we had the It is important to note that just like cans need now, not 5 or 10 years from 2000 election. Prescription drug cov- in the 2000 election, the country took now.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.061 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5889 I want to give credit to Senator have dire implications for our air qual- (ii) Total Estimated Value: WYDEN of Oregon, the ranking Demo- ity and public health. Major Defense Equipment * $250 million. Other $3 million. crat on my committee and my partner For these reasons, I oppose the ad- Total $253 million. on this issue. ministration’s rule and support passage (iii) Description and Quantity or Quan- Thank you for working with us in the of Senator CARDIN’s resolution—S.J. tities of Articles or Services under Consider- tradition of the Finance Committee in Res. 53—to disapprove of it. ation for Purchase: the same way that Senator Baucus and Thank you.∑ Major Defense Equipment (MDE): One hun- I worked together 15 years ago on Part (At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the dred twenty (120) AIM–120C–7/C–8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile D legislation. following statement was ordered to be printed in the RECORD.) (AMRAAM). I ask all of my colleagues to join Non-MDE: Also included are containers; Senator WYDEN and me in our bipar- f weapon support and support equipment; tisan effort to lower the cost of pre- VOTE EXPLANATION spare and repair parts; U.S. Government and scription drugs. ∑ contractor engineering, technical, and logis- Ms. HARRIS. Mr. President, I was ab- tics support services; and other related ele- I yield the floor. sent for vote No. 324 on S.J. Res. 53, I suggest the absence of a quorum. ments of logistical and program support. providing for congressional disapproval (iv) Military Department: Air Force (KS– The PRESIDING OFFICER. The under chapter 8 of title 5, United D–YDB). clerk will call the roll. States Code, of the rule submitted by (v) Prior Related Cases, if any: None. The senior assistant legislative clerk the Environmental Protection Agency (vi) Sales Commission, Fee, etc., Paid, Of- proceeded to call the roll. fered, or Agreed to be Paid: None. relating to ‘‘Repeal of the Clean Power (vii) Sensitivity of Technology Contained Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Plan; Emission Guidelines for Green- ask unanimous consent that the order in the Defense Article or Defense Services house Gas Emissions From Existing Proposed to be Sold: See Annex Attached. for the quorum call be rescinded. Utility Generating Units; Revisions to (viii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Emissions Guidelines Implementing October 17, 2019. objection, it is so ordered. Regulations.’’ * As defined in Section 47(6) of the Arms f Had I been present, I would have Export Control Act. voted yea on the resolution.∑ POLICY JUSTIFICATION MORNING BUSINESS Republic of Korea—AIM–120C Advanced Me- f (At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the dium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) following statement was ordered to be ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION The Republic of Korea (ROK) has requested printed in the RECORD.) Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section to buy one hundred twenty (120) AIM–120C–7/ C–8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Mis- f 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior no- siles (AMRAAM). Also included are con- S.J. RES. 53 tainers; weapon support and support equip- tification of certain proposed arms ∑ Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I ment; spare and repair parts; U.S. Govern- sales as defined by that statute. Upon ment and contractor engineering, technical, rise today to discuss S.J. Res. 53, the such notification, the Congress has 30 and logistics support services; and other re- resolution of disapproval under the calendar days during which the sale lated elements of logistical and program sup- Congressional Review Act on the Envi- may be reviewed. The provision stipu- port. The total estimated program cost is ronmental Protection Agency’s Afford- lates that, in the Senate, the notifica- $253 million. able Clean Energy, ACE rule. I fully tion of proposed sales shall be sent to This proposed sale will support the foreign support passage of the resolution. the chairman of the Senate Foreign policy and national security objectives of Every week seems to bring fresh evi- Relations Committee. the United States by meeting the legitimate In keeping with the committee’s in- security and defense needs of one of the clos- dence of the damage climate change is est allies in the INDOPACOM Theater. The causing to our environment and econ- tention to see that relevant informa- Republic of Korea is one of the major polit- omy. Increasing floods, heatwaves, tion is available to the full Senate, I ical and economic powers in East Asia and droughts, hurricanes, and snowstorms ask unanimous consent to have printed the Western Pacific and a key partner of the have wreaked havoc on communities in the RECORD the notifications which United States in ensuring peace and stability across the country. We cannot con- have been received. If the cover letter in that region. It is vital to U.S. national in- tinue to ignore that climate change is references a classified annex, then such terests to assist the Republic of Korea in de- already happening all around us. We annex is available to all Senators in veloping and maintaining a strong and ready the office of the Foreign Relations self-defense capability. must take immediate action. This proposed sale will improve the ROK The Obama administration’s Clean Committee, room SD–423. capability to meet current and future Power Plan established Federal stand- There being no objection, the mate- threats by increasing its stocks of medium ards for emissions of carbon dioxide rial was ordered to be printed in the range missiles for its F–15K, KF–16, and F–35 from fossil fuel-fired power plants. The RECORD, as follows: fleets for its national defense. The potential plan set achievable carbon emissions DEFENSE SECURITY sale will further strengthen the interoper- reduction targets of 32 percent from COOPERATION AGENCY, ability between the United States and the ROK. The ROK will have no difficulty ab- 2005 levels by 2030 to be reached by re- Arlington, VA. Hon. JAMES E. RISCH, sorbing these additional missiles into its ducing emissions from coal-fired power Chairman, Committee on Foreign Relations, armed forces. plants, shifting energy generation from U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. The proposed sale of this equipment and fossil fuels to renewable sources, and DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Pursuant to the re- support will not alter the basic military bal- promoting energy conservation. The porting requirements of Section 36(b)(1) of ance in the region. Clean Power Plan not only helped drive the Arms Export Control Act, as amended, The principal contractor will be Raytheon the transition of our energy generation we are forwarding herewith Transmittal No. of Waltham, MA. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this to cleaner sources, it also served as the 19–51 concerning the Air Force’s proposed Letter(s) of Offer and Acceptance to the Re- potential sale. Any offset agreement will be centerpiece of U.S. efforts to lead the public of Korea for defense articles and serv- defined in negotiations between the Pur- world in addressing climate change ices estimated to cost $253 million. After this chaser and the prime contractor. through the Paris Climate Agreement. letter is delivered to your office, we plan to Implementation of the proposed sale will The administration’s rule would take issue a news release to notify the public of not require the assignment of any additional us backward by repealing the emissions this proposed sale. U.S. Government or contractor representa- Sincerely, tives to the ROK. reduction targets in the Clean Power There will be no adverse impact on U.S. de- Plan and replacing them with less am- CHARLES W. HOOPER, Lieutenant General, USA, Director. fense readiness as a result of this proposed bitious targets based on narrow energy Enclosures. sale. efficiency improvements that also TRANSMITTAL NO. 19–51 TRANSMITTAL NO. 19–51 wholly exempt natural gas-fired power Notice of Proposed Issuance of Letter of Notice of Proposed Issuance of Letter of plants. It is clear that the new rules Offer Pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the Offer Pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the will likely result in more carbon pollu- Arms Export Control Act, as amended Arms Export Control Act tion, halt the accelerated trends to- (i) Prospective Purchaser: Republic of Annex Item No. vii ward low- and zero-carbon energy, and Korea. (vii) Sensitivity of Technology:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:02 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17OC6.062 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5890 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 1. The proposed sale will involve the re- in a supportive environment that offers students who will receive the encour- lease of sensitive technology to the Republic students many opportunities to explore agement and opportunities to develop of Korea related to the AIM–120C–7/C–8 Ad- their interests. Approximately 90 per- the knowledge, skills, and attitudes vanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile cent of students participate in at least that prepare them for citizenship in a (AMRAAM). The AIM–120C–7/C–8 AMRAAM is a supersonic, air launched, aerial inter- one extracurricular activity, from the global society,’’ is carried out daily. cept, guided missile featuring digital tech- arts and athletics to robotics club and Students focus on the core values of nology and micro-miniature solid-state elec- model united nations. fairness, citizenship, respect, and car- tronics. Purchase will include AMRAAM Cape Elizabeth students support each ing. The core curriculum has a strong Guidance Sections. AMRAAM capabilities other. Every incoming ninth-grade stu- focus on math, literacy, science, and include look-down/shoot- down, multiple dent is assigned an upper class mentor social studies, with special programs launches against multiple targets, resistance to ease the transition to high school. that recognize each student’s indi- to electronic countermeasures, and intercep- Freshman Academy helps ninth grad- vidual learning style. tion of high- and low-flying maneuvering targets. The AIM–120C–8 is a form, fit, func- ers explore their own values and At Fruit Street, rich and diverse tion refresh of the AIM–120C–7 and is the strengths. Across the grade levels, stu- learning opportunities are a part of next generation to be produced. The capa- dents often say ‘‘thank you’’ to their every child’s experience, from art and bilities of the AIM–120C–7 and C–8 are iden- teachers at the end of class, a powerful music, to library skills and physical tical. The AMRAAM All Up Round is classi- sign of a respectful school climate. education. The school involves all stu- fied CONFIDENTIAL, major components and An active high school parents asso- dents in extracurricular activities, subsystems range from UNCLASSIFIED to ciation strengthens the connections be- which helps forge a strong school com- CONFIDENTIAL, and technical data and tween school and home. The Cape Eliz- munity where students are connected other documentation are classified up to SE- abeth Education Foundation, the first CRET. and encouraged to pursue their inter- 2. If a technologically advanced adversary education foundation in Maine, fosters ests. Throughout the curriculum, stu- were to obtain knowledge of the specific innovation and excellence. Over the dents are also taught to use technology hardware and software elements, the infor- years, the foundation has funded the both effectively and responsibly. mation could be used to develop counter- creation of the Achievement Center to Faculty, parents, and community measures that might reduce weapon system offer individualized tutoring, commis- members are committed to both aca- effectiveness or be used in the development sioned compositions for performance demic excellence and each child’s so- of a system with similar or advanced capa- by school music ensembles, sponsored cial, emotional, and physical health. bilities. 3. A determination has been made that the sexual assault awareness programs Faculty work to ensure an effective Republic of Korea can provide substantially planned by students and staff together, learning environment and to develop the same degree of protection for the sen- and supported teacher professional de- strong and collaborative relationships sitive technology being released as the U.S. velopment. with parents and community members. Government. This sale is necessary in fur- This Blue Ribbon Award is a tribute An active parent-teacher organization therance of the U.S. foreign policy and na- not only to the students but also to the supports enriching educational activi- tional security objectives outlined in the administrators, teachers, staff, and ties and promotes excellence and inno- Policy Justification. 4. All defense articles and services listed on parents of Cape Elizabeth High School. vation by funding special projects and this transmittal have been authorized for re- Together, they are accomplishing their initiatives. lease and export to the Republic of Korea. mission to help students succeed in the I applaud the administrators, teach- f classroom and as engaged citizens. ers, staff, and parents of Fruit Street They are making a difference in the Elementary School. Together, they are RECOGNIZING CAPE ELIZABETH lives of their students, helping them succeeding in their mission to build HIGH SCHOOL reach their full potential. I congratu- students’ confidence and generate mo- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I am late the entire community for this mentum for learning. I congratulate delighted to commend Cape Elizabeth well-deserved recognition. the entire school community for this High School of Cape Elizabeth ME, on f outstanding achievement. being named a 2019 National Blue Rib- f bon Exemplary High Performing RECOGNIZING FRUIT STREET School. This outstanding high school is ELEMENTARY RECOGNIZING YARMOUTH HIGH one of only 362 schools across the coun- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I am SCHOOL try to receive Blue Ribbon recognition delighted to commend Fruit Street El- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I am this year from the U.S. Department of ementary School in Bangor, ME, on delighted to commend Yarmouth High Education. being named a 2019 National Blue Rib- School of Yarmouth, ME, on being Created in 1982, the Blue Ribbon bon Exemplary High Performing named a 2019 National Blue Ribbon Ex- Schools Program honors schools that School. Serving 325 students from pre- emplary High Performing School. This are either academically superior in K through third grade, this out- outstanding high school is one of only their States or that demonstrate sig- standing school is one of only 362 362 schools across the country to re- nificant gains in student achievement. schools across the country this year to ceive Blue Ribbon recognition this year The schools singled out for this na- receive Blue Ribbon recognition from from the U.S. Department of Edu- tional recognition are models of high the U.S. Department of Education. cation. educational standards and account- Created in 1982, the Blue Ribbon Created in 1982, the Blue Ribbon ability. Schools Program honors schools that Schools Program honors schools that This award recognizes the hard work are either academically superior in are either academically superior in and determination of Cape Elizabeth their States or that demonstrate sig- their States or that demonstrate sig- High School’s students, faculty, and nificant gains in student achievement. nificant gains in student achievement. staff. This top-performing school has a The schools singled out for this na- The schools singled out for this na- strong commitment to professional de- tional recognition are models of high tional recognition are models of high velopment that ensures that teachers educational standards and account- educational standards and account- and staff, as well as students, are life- ability. ability. long learners. This recognition con- The Blue Ribbon designation con- This award recognizes the hard work tinues a tradition of excellence that tinues a tradition of quality education and determination of Yarmouth High builds upon Cape Elizabeth High in Bangor. The graduation rates and School’s students, faculty, and staff. School’s previous Blue Ribbon Award assessment test scores for the town’s This is a top-performing school on in 2004. K–12 school district consistently are State-required assessments, and its Cape Elizabeth High School’s mission among the highest in the State of strong commitment to professional de- is to ‘‘open minds, open doors.’’ The Maine. velopment ensures that teachers, staff, school provides its 540 students with a Fruit Street Elementary School’s and students are life-long learners. rigorous academic experience that pre- mission statement, ‘‘A high quality This recognition adds to the town’s pares students for college and career, education is attainable by all of our record of achievement in education—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:02 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.017 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5891 Yarmouth Elementary School was their careers as solo singer-songwriters after the center was completed, the awarded a Blue Ribbon last year. but rocketed to stardom as a duo. necessary renovations to turn the civic The mission of Yarmouth High Their fusion of classic rock composi- center into exhibit and meeting facili- School is to ‘‘empower all students to tion and heartfelt songwriting spoke to ties were well under way. Through ad- create fulfilling lives in a changing country music fans craving an edge to ditional construction, two parking world.’’ Yarmouth High School is the genre’s traditional ‘‘Nashville structures were placed contiguous to known for its extensive extra-cur- Sound.’’ Nearly three decades after the Civic Center, creating an entirely ricular activities, which help forge a their first album dropped, their music different complex by 1983. strong school community where stu- still inspires emerging generations of John’s greatest of many accomplish- dents are connected and encouraged to fans. ments has come within the past few pursue their interests. In addition to From the beginning of his career, au- years, when approval of a city sales tax the arts and athletics, the school pro- diences and fellow artists alike were appropriated the proper funding to vides strong STEM education and drawn to Ray Stevens’ wonderful sense build the state-of-the-art facility that world language courses. A comprehen- of humor, open heart, and commitment he had always dreamed of creating for sive social studies curriculum includes to entertainment as an art form. his home town. John worked tirelessly a Public Policy Project in which stu- Known for his work in musical comedy, with the mayor and Charleston city dents conduct individual research on a Ray stretched his legs and also made a council, civic center board members, contemporary policy issue and present name for himself as a studio musician, his staff, city planners, and consulting their recommendations to policy mak- producer, songwriter, publisher, label firms to complete the new Charleston ers. owner, gospel singer, and country star. Coliseum and Convention Center in the Yarmouth High School students are Jerry Bradley, this year’s final in- fall of 2018. This achievement is under- active in their community. The stu- ductee, may not have invented country scored by the fact that the center was dent senate allows them to be involved music, but no one on Music Row would continually operated during the entire in decisions regarding school policies deny the impact his work has had on construction period. and programs. Students and parents generations of country stars. Jerry The Charleston Civic Center is held join staff and administrators to inter- began his career in Nashville when the so fondly in the memories of so many view candidates for positions at the industry was on the brink of a major West Virginians. For some, it is where school. Economics classes visit local transformation. He drove the format they saw their favorite band perform businesses, environmental science into a new era defined by rebels, out- live for the first time. For others, it classes work on community recycling laws, and crossover superstars. was where they were able to bring and environmental stewardship Today, I encourage my colleagues to home a State basketball title. From projects, and world history coursework take a moment to think of their favor- Garth Brooks concerts, to oldtime car includes visiting local religious centers ite song and to remember how it made shows, West Virginia versus Marshall to increase understanding of various them feel the first time they heard it. basketball games or the West Virginia cultures. Kix, Ronnie, Ray, and Jerry are re- Book Festival, one thing has remained The school strives to address the sponsible for making millions of people the same; that is, John’s dedication to varying needs of individual students by feel that exact same way about their the citizens of Charleston through his bringing together students, teachers, favorite song. tireless work to make sure that every administrators, counselors, and par- Their body of work represents more detail of every event, no matter how ents to provide a support network to than just a series of accomplishments. big or small, held at the Charleston help ensure that all students have the It represents the best of Music City. Civic Center was in place. opportunity to succeed academically It is a gift. In retirement, John will now have and socially. f more time to spend with his loving wife This Blue Ribbon Award is a tribute Kimberly, his daughters Bethany and ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS not only to the students but also to the Allyson, and his grandchildren Lucy administrators, teachers, staff, and and Henry, but the lasting effects of parents of Yarmouth High School. To- TRIBUTE TO JOHN ROBERTSON what he did for our State and the city gether, they are accomplishing their of Charleston will continue on for gen- ∑ mission to help students succeed in the Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. President, I rise erations to come. I wish John all the classroom and as engaged citizens in today to recognize my friend John Rob- best as he continues to make a dif- their community and the world. They ertson, a dedicated servant to the great ference in his community with his un- are making a difference in the lives of people of West Virginia and native of wavering diligence and kind soul. It is their students, helping them reach our State capital, Charleston. After a truly an honor to call you friend and their full potential. I congratulate the 41-year career, John is retiring as the fellow West Virginian.∑ general manager of the Charleston Col- entire community for this well-de- f served recognition. iseum and Convention Center. Throughout these past four decades, MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT f John’s leadership has transformed the Messages from the President of the INDUCTION OF BROOKS & DUNN, facility, turning it into one of the cul- United States were communicated to RAY STEVENS, AND JERRY tural epicenters of our State. the Senate by Ms. Roberts, one of his BRADLEY INTO THE COUNTRY In August of 1978, with a bachelor’s secretaries. MUSIC HALL OF FAME degree from the University of Charles- f Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. President, in ton under his belt, John began his ca- Nashville, we have a saying: it all reer as an assistant manager for the EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED starts with a song; but a song is just Charleston Civic Center. At the time, As in executive session the Presiding the beginning of the story. the building was in its fledgling stages, Officer laid before the Senate messages This Sunday, Nashville’s unbroken having just broken ground the month from the President of the United circle of elite artists, producers, enter- before. For John, it was all hands on States submitting sundry nominations tainers, and musical masterminds will deck, and he hit the ground running, which were referred to the appropriate welcome four new members into the assisting in structural related duties, committees. Country Music Hall of Fame. as well as the concession stand oper- (The messages received today are Kix Brooks, Ronnie Dunn, Ray Ste- ations. Two years later, in August of printed at the end of the Senate pro- vens, and Jerry Bradley represent dif- 1980, the Charleston Civic Center was ceedings.) ferent sectors within the music indus- host to its first big concert—the band f try, but they have all contributed to Queen. country music’s evolution. With John’s vision and leadership at MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn—we the helm, this was just the beginning At 10:02 a.m., a message from the know them as Brooks & Dunn—began for the Charleston Civic Center. Soon House of Representatives, delivered by

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.015 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5892 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, H.R. 887. An act to designate the facility of at 575 Dexter Street in Central Falls, Rhode announced that the House has passed the United States Postal Service located at Island, as the ‘‘Elizabeth Buffum Chace Post the following bill, without amendment: 877 East 1200 South in Orem, Utah, as the Office’’. ‘‘Jerry C. Washburn Post Office Building’’; to H.R. 3152. An act to designate the facility S. 1196. An act to designate the facility of the Committee on Homeland Security and of the United States Postal Service located the United States Postal Service located at Governmental Affairs. at 456 North Meridian Street in Indianapolis, 1715 Linnerud Drive in Sun Prairie, Wis- H.R. 1252. An act to designate the facility Indiana, as the ‘‘Richard G. Lugar Post Of- consin, as the ‘‘Fire Captain Cory Barr Post of the United States Postal Service located fice’’. Office Building’’. at 6531 Van Nuys Boulevard in Van Nuys, f The message further announced that California, as the ‘‘Marilyn Monroe Post Of- the House has passed the following fice’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- MEASURES READ THE FIRST TIME bills, in which it requests the concur- rity and Governmental Affairs. The following bill was read the first rence of the Senate: H.R. 1253. An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located time: H.R. 887. An act to designate the facility of at 13507 Van Nuys Boulevard in Pacoima, S. 2644. A bill to impose sanctions with re- the United States Postal Service located at California, as the ‘‘Ritchie Valens Post Of- spect to Turkey, and for other purposes. 877 East 1200 South in Orem, Utah, as the fice Building’’; to the Committee on Home- ‘‘Jerry C. Washburn Post Office Building’’. f H.R. 1252. An act to designate the facility land Security and Governmental Affairs. H.R. 1833. An act to designate the facility EXECUTIVE AND OTHER of the United States Postal Service located of the United States Postal Service located COMMUNICATIONS at 6531 Van Nuys Boulevard in Van Nuys, California, as the ‘‘Marilyn Monroe Post Of- at 35 Tulip Avenue in Floral Park, New The following communications were fice’’. York, as the ‘‘Lieutenant Michael R. David- laid before the Senate, together with H.R. 1253. An act to designate the facility son Post Office Building’’; to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- accompanying papers, reports, and doc- of the United States Postal Service located uments, and were referred as indicated: at 13507 Van Nuys Boulevard in Pacoima, fairs. California, as the ‘‘Ritchie Valens Post Of- H.R. 1972. An act to designate the facility EC–2767. A communication from the Chair- fice Building’’. of the United States Postal Service located man and Chief Executive Officer, Farm Cred- H.R. 1496. An act to amend the Act of Au- at 1100 West Kent Avenue in Missoula, Mon- it Administration, transmitting, pursuant to gust 25, 1958, commonly known as the tana, as the ‘‘Jeannette Rankin Post Office law, a report relative to the Administra- ‘‘Former Presidents Act of 1958’’, with re- Building’’; to the Committee on Homeland tion’s 2018 compensation program adjust- spect to the monetary allowance payable to Security and Governmental Affairs. ments; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nu- a former President, and for other purposes. H.R. 2151. An act to designate the facility trition, and Forestry. H.R. 1833. An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located EC–2768. A communication from the Direc- of the United States Postal Service located at 7722 South Main Street in Pine Plains, tor of the Regulations Management Division, at 35 Tulip Avenue in Floral Park, New New York, as the ‘‘Senior Chief Petty Officer Rural Development, Department of Agri- York, as the ‘‘Lieutenant Michael R. David- Shannon M. Kent Post Office’’; to the Com- culture, transmitting, pursuant to law, the son Post Office Building’’. mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Community Facili- H.R. 1972. An act to designate the facility mental Affairs. ties Guaranteed Loan Program Guarantee of the United States Postal Service located H.R. 3144. An act to designate the facility Fee Rate, Annual Renewal Fee, Rural Area at 1100 West Kent Avenue in Missoula, Mon- of the United States Postal Service located Definition, and Funding Priority for Fiscal tana, as ‘‘Jeannette Rankin Post Office at 8520 Michigan Avenue in Whittier, Cali- Year 2020; and Water and Waste Disposal Building’’. fornia, as the ‘‘Jose Ramos Post Office Build- Programs Guaranteed Rural Area Definition H.R. 2151. An act to designate the facility ing’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- and Funding Reservation for Fiscal Year of the United States Postal Service located rity and Governmental Affairs. 2020’’ received during adjournment of the at 7722 South Main Street in Pine Plains, H.R. 3207. An act to designate the facility Senate in the Office of the President of the New York, as the ‘‘Senior Chief Petty Officer of the United States Postal Service located Senate on October 7, 2019; to the Committee Shannon M. Kent Post Office’’. at 114 Mill Street in Hookstown, on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. H.R. 2451. An act to designate the facility Pennslyvania, as the ‘‘Staff Sergeant Dylan EC–2769. A communication from the Direc- of the United States Postal Service located Elchin Post Office Building’’; to the Com- tor of the Regulations Management Division, at 575 Dexter Street in Central Falls, Rhode mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- Rural Development, Department of Agri- Island, as the ‘‘Elizabeth Buffum Chace Post mental Affairs. culture, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Office’’. H.R. 3314. An act to designate the facility report of a rule entitled ‘‘Section 538 Guar- H.R. 3144. An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located anteed Rural Rental Housing Program No- of the United States Postal Service located at 1750 McCulloch Boulevard North in Lake tice of Funding Availability Elimination’’ at 8520 Michigan Avenue in Whittier, Cali- Havasu City, Arizona, as the ‘‘Lake Havasu (RIN0575–AD12) received during adjournment fornia, as ‘‘Jose Ramos Post Office Build- City Combat Veterans Memorial Post Office of the Senate in the Office of the President ing’’. Building’’; to the Committee on Homeland of the Senate on October 11, 2019; to the Com- H.R. 3152. An act to designate the facility Security and Governmental Affairs. mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- of the United States Postal Service located H.R. 3329. An act to designate the facility estry. at 456 North Meridian Street in Indianapolis, of the United States Postal Service located EC–2770. A communication from the Direc- Indiana, as the ‘‘Richard G. Lugar Post Of- at 5186 Benito Street in Montclair, Cali- tor of the Transparency and Accountability fice’’. fornia, as the ‘‘Paul Eaton Post Office Build- Reporting Division, Federal Crop Insurance H.R. 3207. An act to designate the facility ing’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- Corporation, Department of Agriculture, of the United States Postal Service located rity and Governmental Affairs. transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of H.R. 3889. An act to amend the Office of at 114 Mill Street in Hookstown, Pennsyl- a rule entitled ‘‘Nonprocurement Debarment National Drug Control Policy Reauthoriza- vania, as the ‘‘Staff Sergeant Dylan Echlin and Suspension’’ (RIN0505–AA17) received tion Act of 1998 to make technical correc- Post Office Building’’. during adjournment of the Senate in the Of- tions; to the Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 3314. An act to designate the facility fice of the President of the Senate on Octo- of the United States Postal Service located f ber 8, 2019; to the Committee on Agriculture, at 1750 McCulloch Boulevard North in Lake MEASURES PLACED ON THE Nutrition, and Forestry. Havasu City, Arizona, as the ‘‘Lake Havasu EC–2771. A communication from the Assist- City Combat Veterans Memorial Post Office CALENDAR ant General Counsel, Office of the General Building’’. The following joint resolutions were Counsel, Department of Agriculture, trans- H.R. 3329. An act to designate the facility mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule of the United States Postal Service located read the second time, and placed on the entitled ‘‘Rules of Practice and Procedure at 5186 Benito Street in Montclair, Cali- calendar: Governing Formal Rulemaking Proceedings fornia, as the ‘‘Paul Eaton Post Office Build- S.J. Res. 58. Joint resolution expressing Instituted by the Secretary’’ (7 CFR Part 1) ing’’. support for freedom of conscience. received during adjournment of the Senate H.R. 3889. An act to amend the Office of H.J. Res. 77. Joint resolution opposing the in the Office of the President of the Senate National Drug Control Policy Reauthoriza- decision to end certain United States efforts on October 11, 2019; to the Committee on Ag- tion Act of 1998 to make technical correc- to prevent Turkish military operations riculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. tions. against Syrian Kurdish forces in Northeast Syria. EC–2772. A communication from the Under f Secretary of Defense (Acquisition and The following bills were read the first MEASURES REFERRED Sustainment), transmitting, pursuant to and second times by unanimous con- law, the annual Selected Acquisition Reports The following bills were read the first sent, and placed on the calendar: (SARs) as of June 30, 2019 (OSS–2019–1092); to and the second times by unanimous H.R. 2451. An act to designate the facility the Committees on Appropriations; and consent, and referred as indicated: of the United States Postal Service located Armed Services.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.023 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5893 EC–2773. A communication from the Gen- EC–2785. A communication from the Senior during adjournment of the Senate in the Of- eral Counsel, Government Accountability Of- Attorney-Advisor, Federal Highway Admin- fice of the President of the Senate on Octo- fice, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report istration, Department of Transportation, ber 10, 2019; to the Committee on Finance. entitled ‘‘Fiscal Year 2018 Antideficiency Act transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of EC–2794. A communication from the Asso- Reports Compilation’’; to the Committee on a rule entitled ‘‘Pedestrian and Bicycle Ac- ciate Commissioner for Legislative Affairs, Appropriations. commodations and Projects; Removal of Ob- Food and Drug Administration, Department EC–2774. A communication from the Gen- solete Regulation’’ (RIN2125–AF90) received of Health and Human Services, transmitting, eral Counsel, Government Accountability Of- during adjournment of the Senate in the Of- pursuant to law, a report entitled ‘‘Rec- fice, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report fice of the President of the Senate on Octo- ommendations for Sponsors of Medically Im- of violations of the Antideficiency Act by ber 9, 2019; to the Committee on Environ- portant Antimicrobial Drugs Approved for the Environmental Protection Agency; to ment and Public Works. Use in Animals to Voluntarily Bring Under the Committee on Appropriations. EC–2786. A communication from the Direc- Veterinary Oversight All Products That Con- EC–2775. A communication from the Gen- tor of the Regulatory Management Division, tinue to be Available Over-the-counter’’; to eral Counsel, Government Accountability Of- Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, fice, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- and Pensions. of violations of the Antideficiency Act by titled ‘‘North Carolina: Final Authorization EC–2795. A communication from the Ad- the Commodity Futures Trading Commis- of State Hazardous Waste Management Pro- ministrator, Federal Emergency Manage- sion; to the Committee on Appropriations. gram Revisions’’ (FRL No. 10001–05–Region 4) ment Agency, Department of Homeland Se- EC–2776. A communication from the Under received during adjournment of the Senate curity, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), trans- in the Office of the President of the Senate port relative to the cost of response and re- mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to on October 10, 2019; to the Committee on En- covery efforts for FEMA–3419-EM in the violations of the Antideficiency Act that in- vironment and Public Works. State of Florida having exceeded the volved fiscal years 2013–2016 Operations and EC–2787. A communication from the Direc- $5,000,000 limit for a single emergency dec- Maintenance, Defense-Wide (O&M), and Re- tor of the Regulatory Management Division, laration; to the Committee on Homeland Se- search, Development, Testing and Evalua- Environmental Protection Agency, transmit- curity and Governmental Affairs. tion, Defense-Wide (RDT&E) funds and was ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- EC–2796. A communication from the Ad- assigned case number 18–01; to the Com- titled ‘‘Significant New Use Rules on Certain ministrator, Federal Emergency Manage- mittee on Appropriations. Chemical Substances (17–5)’’ (RIN2070–AB27) ment Agency, Department of Homeland Se- EC–2777. A communication from the Under received during adjournment of the Senate curity, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- Secretary of Defense (Acquisition and in the Office of the President of the Senate port relative to the cost of response and re- Sustainment), transmitting, pursuant to on October 10, 2019; to the Committee on En- covery efforts for FEMA–3416-EM in the law, a report entitled ‘‘Report on Defense vironment and Public Works. State of Louisiana having exceeded the Electronics Industrial Base’’; to the Com- EC–2788. A communication from the Direc- $5,000,000 limit for a single emergency dec- mittee on Armed Services. EC–2778. A communication from the Sec- tor of the Human Resources Management Di- laration; to the Committee on Homeland Se- retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- vision, Environmental Protection Agency, curity and Governmental Affairs. ant to law, a six-month periodic report on transmitting, pursuant to law, two (2) re- EC–2797. A communication from the Chair- the national emergency with respect to ports relative to vacancies in the Environ- man of the Council of the District of Colum- South Sudan that was declared in Executive mental Protection Agency, received in the bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Order 13664 of April 3, 2014; to the Committee Office of the President of the Senate on Oc- on D.C. Act 23–119, ‘‘Criminal Justice Coordi- on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. tober 11, 2019; to the Committee on Environ- nating Council Information Sharing Tem- EC–2779. A communication from the Sec- ment and Public Works. porary Amendment Act of 2019’’; to the Com- retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- EC–2789. A communication from the Acting mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- ant to law, a six-month periodic report on Assistant Secretary for Legislation, Depart- mental Affairs. the national emergency with respect to ment of Health and Human Services, trans- EC–2798. A communication from the Chair- Sudan that was declared in Executive Order mitting, pursuant to law, a report entitled man of the Council of the District of Colum- 13067 of November 3, 1997; to the Committee ‘‘Medicaid Emergency Psychiatric Dem- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. onstration: Response to 21st Century Cures on D.C. Act 23–120, ‘‘Access to Public Bene- EC–2780. A communication from the Sec- Act Requirements Report to Congress’’; to fits Amendment Act of 2019’’; to the Com- retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- the Committee on Finance. mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- ant to law, a six-month periodic report on EC–2790. A communication from the Senior mental Affairs. the national emergency with respect to sig- Advisor, Office of the Secretary, Department EC–2799. A communication from the Chair- nificant malicious cyber-enabled activities of Health and Human Services, transmitting, man of the Council of the District of Colum- that was declared in Executive Order 13694 of pursuant to law, a report relative to a va- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report April 1, 2015; to the Committee on Banking, cancy in the position of Commissioner, Ad- on D.C. Act 23–121, ‘‘Close Relative Caregiver Housing, and Urban Affairs. ministration for Children, Youth & Families, Subsidy Pilot Program Establishment EC–2781. A communication from the Sec- Department of Health and Human Services, Amendment Act of 2019’’; to the Committee retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- received during adjournment of the Senate on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- ant to law, a six-month periodic report on in the Office of the President of the Senate fairs. the national emergency with respect to So- on October 9, 2019; to the Committee on Fi- EC–2800. A communication from the Chair- malia that was declared in Executive Order nance. man of the Council of the District of Colum- 13536 on April 12, 2010; to the Committee on EC–2791. A communication from the Assist- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. ant General Counsel, General Law, Ethics, on D.C. Act 23–122, ‘‘Wells School Designa- EC–2782. A communication from the Gen- and Regulation, Department of the Treasury, tion and Master Facilities Plan Disapproval eral Counsel of the National Credit Union transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- Amendment Act of 2019’’; to the Committee Administration, transmitting, pursuant to ative to a vacancy in the position of Deputy on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Real Es- Under Secretary (Legislative Affairs), De- fairs. tate Appraisals’’ (RIN3133–AE79) received partment of Treasury received during ad- EC–2801. A communication from the Chair- during adjournment of the Senate in the Of- journment of the Senate in the Office of the man of the Council of the District of Colum- fice of the President of the Senate on Octo- President of the Senate on October 11, 2019; bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report ber 10, 2019; to the Committee on Banking, to the Committee on Finance. on D.C. Act 23–115, ‘‘Urban Farming Land Housing, and Urban Affairs. EC–2792. A communication from the Chief Lease Temporary Amendment Act of 2019’’; EC–2783. A communication from the Acting of the Publications and Regulations Branch, to the Committee on Homeland Security and Director, Office of Management and Budget, Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Governmental Affairs. Executive Office of the President, transmit- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the EC–2802. A communication from the Chair- ting, pursuant to law, a report relative to report of a rule entitled ‘‘Removal of Tem- man of the Council of the District of Colum- discretionary appropriations legislation; to porary Regulations on Partner’s Share of a bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report the Committee on the Budget. Partnership Liability for Disguised Sale Pur- on D.C. Act 23–116, ‘‘MLK Gateway Real EC–2784. A communication from the Senior poses’’ (RIN1545–BO05) received during ad- Property Tax Abatement Temporary Amend- Attorney-Advisor, Federal Highway Admin- journment of the Senate in the Office of the ment Act of 2019’’; to the Committee on istration, Department of Transportation, President of the Senate on October 10, 2019; Homeland Security and Governmental Af- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of to the Committee on Finance. fairs. a rule entitled ‘‘Construction and Mainte- EC–2793. A communication from the Chief EC–2803. A communication from the Chair- nance - Promoting Innovation in Use of Pat- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, man of the Council of the District of Colum- ented and Proprietary Products’’ (RIN2125– Internal Revenue Service, Department of the bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report AF84) received during adjournment of the Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the on D.C. Act 23–117, ‘‘Appraisal Management Senate in the Office of the President of the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Liabilities Recog- Company Regulation Temporary Act of Senate on October 9, 2019; to the Committee nized as Recourse Partnership Liabilities 2019’’; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- on Environment and Public Works. under Section 752’’ (RIN1545–BM83) received rity and Governmental Affairs.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:05 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.027 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5894 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 EC–2804. A communication from the Chair- in the Office of the President of the Senate the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the Com- man of the Council of the District of Colum- on October 2, 2019; to the Committee on Com- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- bia, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report merce, Science, and Transportation. tation. on D.C. Act 23–118, ‘‘Standby Guardian Tem- EC–2813. A communication from the Chief EC–2820. A communication from the Man- porary Amendment Act of 2019’’; to the Com- of Regulatory Development, Federal Motor agement and Program Analyst, Federal mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- Carrier Safety Administration, Department Aviation Administration, Department of mental Affairs. of Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to EC–2805. A communication from the Assist- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Limita- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- ant Attorney General, Office of Legislative tions on the Issuance of Commercial Driver’s ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ Affairs, Department of Justice, transmit- Licenses with a Hazardous Materials En- ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2018–0113)) ting, pursuant to law, a report relative to dorsement; Interim Final Rule Made Final’’ received during adjournment of the Senate the Bureau of Prisons’ compliance with the (RIN2126–AA70) received during adjournment in the Office of the President of the Senate privatization requirements of the National of the Senate in the Office of the President on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- Capital Revitalization and Self-Government of the Senate on October 1, 2019; to the Com- merce, Science, and Transportation. Improvement Act of 1997; to the Committee mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- EC–2821. A communication from the Man- on the Judiciary. tation. agement and Program Analyst, Federal EC–2806. A communication from the Senior EC–2814. A communication from the Dep- Aviation Administration, Department of Trial Attorney, National Highway Traffic uty Division Chief, Wireline Competition Bu- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Safety Administration, Department of reau, Federal Communications Commission, law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘The Safer a rule entitled ‘‘Auction of Toll Free Num- ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0193)) Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles bers in the 833 Code, Notice and Filing Re- received during adjournment of the Senate Rule Part One: One National program’’ quirements, Upfront Payments, and Other in the Office of the President of the Senate (RIN2127–AL76; RIN2060–AU09) received dur- Procedures for the 833 Auction, Bidding on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- ing adjournment of the Senate in the Office Scheduled to occur on December 17, 2019’’ merce, Science, and Transportation. of the President of the Senate on September ((FCC 19–75) (AU Docket No. 19–101, WC EC–2822. A communication from the Man- 20, 2019; to the Committee on Commerce, Docket No. 17–192, CC Docket No. 95–155)) re- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Science, and Transportation. ceived during adjournment of the Senate in Aviation Administration, Department of EC–2807. A communication from the Assist- the Office of the President of the Senate on Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to ant General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, October 1, 2019; to the Committee on Com- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Consumer Product Safety Commission, merce, Science, and Transportation. ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of EC–2815. A communication from the Dep- ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0498)) a rule entitled ‘‘Revisions to Safety Stand- uty Chief, Consumer and Governmental Af- received during adjournment of the Senate ard for Full-Size Baby Cribs’’ (16 CFR Part fairs Bureau, Federal Communications Com- in the Office of the President of the Senate 1219) received in the Office of the President mission, transmitting, pursuant to law, the on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- of the Senate on September 26, 2019; to the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Telecommuni- merce, Science, and Transportation. Committee on Commerce, Science, and cations Relay Services and Speech-to-Speech EC–2823. A communication from the Man- Transportation. Services for Individuals with Hearing and agement and Program Analyst, Federal EC–2808. A communication from the Attor- Speech Disabilities, Report and Order, Fur- Aviation Administration, Department of ney, Regulatory Affairs Division, Consumer ther Notice of Proposed Rulemaking’’ (CG Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Product Safety Commission, transmitting, Docket No. 03–123) received during adjourn- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ment of the Senate in the Office of the Presi- ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ ‘‘Revisions to Safety Standard for Carriages dent of the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0482)) and Strollers’’ (16 CFR Part 1227) received in Committee on Commerce, Science, and received during adjournment of the Senate the Office of the President of the Senate on Transportation. in the Office of the President of the Senate September 26, 2019; to the Committee on EC–2816. A communication from the Dep- on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- Commerce, Science, and Transportation. uty Bureau Chief, Wireline Competition Bu- merce, Science, and Transportation. EC–2809. A communication from the Assist- reau, Federal Communications Commission, EC–2824. A communication from the Man- ant General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of agement and Program Analyst, Federal Consumer Product Safety Commission, a rule entitled ‘‘The Uniendo a Puerto Rico Aviation Administration, Department of transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of Fund and the Connect USVI Fund, Connect Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to a rule entitled ‘‘Revisions to Safety Stand- America Fund, ETC Annual Reports and Cer- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- ard for Infant Bath Seats’’ (16 CFR Part 1215) tifications’’ ((RIN3060–AK57) (FCC 19–95)) re- ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ received during adjournment of the Senate ceived during adjournment of the Senate in ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0318)) in the Office of the President of the Senate the Office of the President of the Senate on received during adjournment of the Senate on September 30, 2019; to the Committee on October 8, 2019; to the Committee on Com- in the Office of the President of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation. merce, Science, and Transportation. on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- EC–2810. A communication from the Assist- EC–2817. A communication from the Divi- merce, Science, and Transportation. ant General Counsel for Regulatory Affairs, sion Chief, Wireline Competition Bureau, EC–2825. A communication from the Man- Consumer Product Safety Commission, Federal Communications Commission, trans- agement and Program Analyst, Federal transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule Aviation Administration, Department of a rule entitled ‘‘Amendment to Require- entitled ‘‘Report and Order and Modification Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to ments for Consumer Registration of Durable of Section 214 Authorizations’’ ((FCC 19–94) law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Infant or Toddler Products’’ (16 CFR Part (WC Docket No. 18–155)) received during ad- ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ 1130) received during adjournment of the journment of the Senate in the Office of the ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0486)) Senate in the Office of the President of the President of the Senate on October 9, 2019; to received during adjournment of the Senate Senate on October 10, 2019; to the Committee the Committee on Commerce, Science, and in the Office of the President of the Senate on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Transportation. on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- EC–2811. A communication from the Chief EC–2818. A communication from the Man- merce, Science, and Transportation. of Regulatory Development, Federal Motor agement and Program Analyst, Federal EC–2826. A communication from the Man- Carrier Safety Administration, Department Aviation Administration, Department of agement and Program Analyst, Federal of Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Aviation Administration, Department of law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘General law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Technical, Organizational, Conforming, and ness Directives; Fokker Services B.V. Air- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Correcting Amendments to the Federal planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ Motor Carrier Safety Regulations’’ (RIN2126– 2019–0324)) received in the Office of the Presi- ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0250)) AC27) received during adjournment of the dent of the Senate on September 19, 2019; to received during adjournment of the Senate Senate in the Office of the President of the the Committee on Commerce, Science, and in the Office of the President of the Senate Senate on September 30, 2019; to the Com- Transportation. on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- EC–2819. A communication from the Man- merce, Science, and Transportation. tation. agement and Program Analyst, Federal EC–2827. A communication from the Man- EC–2812. A communication from the Pro- Aviation Administration, Department of agement and Program Analyst, Federal gram Analyst, National Highway Traffic Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Aviation Administration, Department of Safety Administration, Department of law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Odometer planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ Disclosure Requirements’’ (RIN2127–AL39) 2019–0696)) received during adjournment of ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0402)) received during adjournment of the Senate the Senate in the Office of the President of received during adjournment of the Senate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:05 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.029 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5895 in the Office of the President of the Senate EC–2835. A communication from the Man- S. 2619. A bill to amend the Public Health on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Service Act to reauthorize the Healthy Start merce, Science, and Transportation. Aviation Administration, Department of program; to the Committee on Health, Edu- EC–2828. A communication from the Man- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to cation, Labor, and Pensions. agement and Program Analyst, Federal law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- By Mr. INHOFE (for himself and Mr. Aviation Administration, Department of ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ HEINRICH): Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0495)) S. 2620. A bill to bolster the domestic law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- received in the Office of the President of the workforce by encouraging communication ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ Senate on October 15, 2019; to the Committee between career and technical education in- ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0771)) on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. stitutions and emphasizing potential em- received during adjournment of the Senate EC–2836. A communication from the Man- ployment opportunities, to amend the Inter- in the Office of the President of the Senate agement and Program Analyst, Federal nal Revenue Code of 1986 to treat certain on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- Aviation Administration, Department of costs relating to career and technical edu- merce, Science, and Transportation. Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to cation as qualified higher education expenses EC–2829. A communication from the Man- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- for purposes of section 529 programs, and for agement and Program Analyst, Federal ness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes’’ other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- Aviation Administration, Department of ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0401)) nance. Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to received in the Office of the President of the By Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Ms. ROSEN, law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Senate on October 15, 2019; to the Committee and Mr. SCOTT of Florida): ness Directives; Emraer S.A. Airplanes’’ on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. S. 2621. A bill to provide for the restoration ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0325)) EC–2837. A communication from the Man- of legal rights for claimants under holo- received during adjournment of the Senate agement and Program Analyst, Federal caust-era insurance policies; to the Com- in the Office of the President of the Senate Aviation Administration, Department of mittee on the Judiciary. on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to By Mr. BENNET (for himself, Mr. merce, Science, and Transportation. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- GARDNER, and Mr. TESTER): S. 2622. A bill to provide greater controls EC–2830. A communication from the Man- ness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corpora- and restrictions on revolving door lobbying; agement and Program Analyst, Federal tion Helicopters’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket to the Committee on Homeland Security and Aviation Administration, Department of No. FAA–2019–0389)) received in the Office of Governmental Affairs. Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to the President of the Senate on October 15, By Ms. BALDWIN (for herself and Mr. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- 2019; to the Committee on Commerce, HOEVEN): ness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Science, and Transportation. (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab S. 2623. A bill to require the Administrator Aerosystems)’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. f of Federal Aviation Administration to estab- FAA–2019–0521)) received during adjournment EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF lish a pilot program to provide flight train- ing services to veterans; to the Committee of the Senate in the Office of the President COMMITTEE of the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the Com- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- The following executive reports of By Mr. PAUL (for himself and Mr. tation. nominations were submitted: BRAUN): S. 2624. A bill to prohibit arms sales to EC–2831. A communication from the Man- By Mr. GRAHAM for the Committee on the Turkey; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Judiciary. tions. Aviation Administration, Department of Justin Reed Walker, of Kentucky, to be Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to By Mr. WARNER: United States District Judge for the Western S. 2625. A bill to authorize the admission of law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- District of Kentucky. a limited number of Kurdish Syrians and ness Directives; Engine Alliance Turbofan Lee Philip Rudofsky, of Arkansas, to be other Syrian partners as special immigrants, Engines’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– United States District Judge for the Eastern and for other purposes; to the Committee on 2019–0692)) received during adjournment of District of Arkansas. the Judiciary. the Senate in the Office of the President of R. Austin Huffaker, Jr., of Alabama, to be By Mr. MERKLEY: the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the Com- United States District Judge for the Middle S. 2626. A bill to remove limitations on in- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- District of Alabama. mate eligibility for Medicare, the Children’s tation. David B. Barlow, of Utah, to be United Health Insurance Program, and veteran’s EC–2832. A communication from the Man- States District Judge for the District of health benefits; to the Committee on Fi- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Utah. nance. Aviation Administration, Department of John Fitzgerald Kness, of Illinois, to be By Ms. CORTEZ MASTO (for herself, Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to United States District Judge for the North- Mr. VAN HOLLEN, and Mr. MERKLEY): law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- ern District of Illinois. S. 2627. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- ness Directives; Lockheed Martin Corpora- Eleni Maria Roumel, of Maryland, to be a enue Code of 1986 to allow an above-the-line tion/Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Judge of the United States Court of Federal deduction for attorney fees and costs in con- Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. Claims for a term of fifteen years. nection with civil claim awards; to the Com- FAA–2019–0699)) received during adjournment (Nominations without an asterisk mittee on Finance. of the Senate in the Office of the President By Mr. MARKEY (for himself, Mr. of the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the Com- were reported with the recommenda- tion that they be confirmed.) MERKLEY, Mr. BROWN, and Mr. DUR- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- BIN): tation. f S. 2628. A bill to amend title XIX of the So- EC–2833. A communication from the Man- INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND cial Security Act to remove a limitation on agement and Program Analyst, Federal an individual’s eligibility for medical assist- Aviation Administration, Department of JOINT RESOLUTIONS ance under the State Medicaid plan while the Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to The following bills and joint resolu- individual is in custody pending disposition law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- tions were introduced, read the first of charges; to the Committee on Finance. ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- and second times by unanimous con- By Mr. ROUNDS (for himself and Mr. planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– JONES): 2019–0711)) received during adjournment of sent, and referred as indicated: S. 2629. A bill to amend the Public Health the Senate in the Office of the President of By Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Mr. COR- Service Act with respect to the Public the Senate on October 4, 2019; to the Com- NYN, and Mr. SCOTT of Florida): Health Service Corps; to the Committee on mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- S. 2617. A bill to allow the procurement of Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. tation. supplies and services for commercial activi- By Mr. LEE (for himself, Mr. PERDUE, EC–2834. A communication from the Man- ties at National Aeronautics and Space Ad- Mr. CRUZ, Mr. CORNYN, Mr. JOHNSON, agement and Program Analyst, Federal ministration centers; to the Committee on Mr. SCOTT of South Carolina, and Aviation Administration, Department of Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Mrs. BLACKBURN): Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to By Mr. PAUL (for himself, Mr. BENNET, S. 2630. A bill to repeal the wage require- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Mr. CORNYN, Ms. ERNST, Mr. LEE, and ments of the Davis-Bacon Act; to the Com- ness Directives; De Havilland Aircraft of Mr. PORTMAN): mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously S. 2618. A bill to strengthen employee cost Pensions. Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes’’ savings suggestions programs within the By Mr. SCOTT of Florida (for himself, ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2019–0453)) Federal Government; to the Committee on Mrs. CAPITO, Mrs. FISCHER, Mr. received during adjournment of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Af- RUBIO, Mr. COTTON, and Mrs. BLACK- in the Office of the President of the Senate fairs. BURN): on October 4, 2019; to the Committee on Com- By Mr. BROWN (for himself, Mr. BURR, S. 2631. A bill to amend the Fair Credit Re- merce, Science, and Transportation. Ms. STABENOW, and Ms. ERNST): porting Act to accurately report identity

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:14 Jan 07, 2020 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD19\OCTOBER\S17OC9.REC S17OC9 sradovich on DSKJLST7X2PROD with CONG-REC-ONLINE S5896 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 theft transactions in the credit histories of a project that would lead to or facilitate nat- S. Res. 365. A resolution designating Octo- criminal defendants; to the Committee on ural gas exports; to the Committee on En- ber 16, 2019, and October 16, 2020, as ‘‘World Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. ergy and Natural Resources. Food Day’’; considered and agreed to. By Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself, Mr. By Mr. PETERS: LEAHY, Mr. WYDEN, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. S. 2643. A bill to posthumously award a f BROWN, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, Mr. Congressional Gold Medal to Judge Damon BLUMENTHAL, Mr. MARKEY, and Mr. Jerome Keith; to the Committee on Banking, ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS BOOKER): Housing, and Urban Affairs. S. 106 S. 2632. A bill to amend the Ethics in Gov- By Mr. GRAHAM (for himself, Mr. VAN At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the ernment Act of 1978 to require more detailed HOLLEN, Ms. ERNST, Mr. travel disclosure filings from judicial offi- BLUMENTHAL, Mr. TOOMEY, Mr. names of the Senator from Arizona cers, and for other purposes; to the Com- COONS, Mrs. BLACKBURN, Mrs. SHA- (Ms. MCSALLY) and the Senator from mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- HEEN, Mr. ALEXANDER, Ms. New Hampshire (Ms. HASSAN) were mental Affairs. DUCKWORTH, Mr. PORTMAN, Ms. HAS- added as cosponsors of S. 106, a bill to By Mr. BLUMENTHAL: SAN, Mr. ROMNEY, Mr. CARPER, Ms. reauthorize and extend funding for S. 2633. A bill to amend title XVIII of the COLLINS, and Ms. SINEMA): Social Security Act to provide coverage for community health centers and the Na- S. 2644. A bill to impose sanctions with re- tional Health Service Corps. wigs as durable medical equipment under the spect to Turkey, and for other purposes; read Medicare program, and for other purposes; to the first time. S. 230 the Committee on Finance. By Mrs. BLACKBURN (for herself, Mr. At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the By Mr. CARDIN (for himself and Mr. TILLIS, and Mr. PERDUE): name of the Senator from Wisconsin PORTMAN): S. 2645. A bill to prove that the Federal S. 2634. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- Communications Commission and commu- enue Code of 1986 to simplify reporting re- sor of S. 230, a bill to require a report nications service providers regulated by the quirements, promote tax compliance, and re- on foreign nationals who flee from the Commission under the Communications Act duce tip reporting compliance burdens in the United States while awaiting trial or of 1934 shall not be subject to certain provi- beauty service industry; to the Committee sions of the National Environmental Policy sentencing for a criminal offense com- on Finance. Act of 1969 and the National Historic Preser- mitted in the United States, to estab- By Mr. WYDEN: lish a list of countries who have as- S. 2635. A bill to require the Director of the vation Act with respect to the construction, Federal Bureau of Investigation to declassify rebuilding, or hardening of communications sisted or facilitated with such depar- any and all information relating to whether facilities following a major disaster or an tures, to penalize parties connected to the government of Saudi Arabia assisted a emergency declared by the President, and for such departures, and to amend the In- citizen or national of Saudi Arabia in depart- other purposes; to the Committee on Envi- ternal Revenue Code of 1986 to prohibit ing the United States while the citizen or na- ronment and Public Works. the exclusion from gross income from tional was awaiting trial or sentencing for a By Mr. CORNYN: S. 2646. A bill to amend the National Trails certain investments made by foreign criminal offense committed in the United governments who are identified on States, and for other purposes; considered System Act to provide for the study of the and passed. Emancipation National Historic Trail, and such list. By Mr. CARDIN (for himself and Mrs. for other purposes; to the Committee on En- S. 286 CAPITO): ergy and Natural Resources. At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the S. 2636. A bill to amend the Federal Water By Ms. ERNST (for herself and Mr. name of the Senator from Arizona (Ms. Pollution Control Act to establish a program CRAMER): MCSALLY) was added as a cosponsor of to make grants to eligible entities to in- S. 2647. A bill to address Federal employees crease the resilience of publicly owned treat- and contractors who commit sexual assault; S. 286, a bill to amend title XVIII of the ment works to natural hazards, and for other to the Committee on Homeland Security and Social Security Act to provide for the purposes; to the Committee on Environment Governmental Affairs. coverage of marriage and family thera- and Public Works. f pist services and mental health coun- By Mr. WYDEN: selor services under part B of the Medi- S. 2637. A bill to amend the Federal Trade SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND care program, and for other purposes. Commission Act to establish requirements SENATE RESOLUTIONS and responsibilities for entities that use, S. 299 store, or share personal information, to pro- The following concurrent resolutions At the request of Mr. CASEY, the tect personal information, and for other pur- and Senate resolutions were read, and name of the Senator from Minnesota poses; to the Committee on Finance. referred (or acted upon), as indicated: (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and By Mr. MURPHY: of S. 299, a bill to amend title VII of Mrs. FISCHER): S. Res. 360. A resolution affirming the im- the Public Health Service Act to reau- S. 2638. A bill to amend title 49, United portance of access to safe, quality education, thorize programs that support inter- State Code, to require small hub airports to including protection from attacks on edu- construct areas for nursing mothers, and for professional geriatric education and cation, for children in conflict settings; to other purposes; to the Committee on Com- training to develop a geriatric-capable the Committee on Foreign Relations. merce, Science, and Transportation. By Ms. ERNST (for herself and Mr. workforce, improving health outcomes By Mr. UDALL (for himself, Mr. VAN RUBIO): for a growing and diverse aging Amer- HOLLEN, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. BENNET, S. Res. 361. A resolution acknowledging the ican population and their families, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. BOOKER, Ms. Kurds’ vital role in stopping the spread of for other purposes. HIRONO, Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. MARKEY, ISIS militants in the Middle East, and for Mr. WHITEHOUSE, and Mr. SANDERS): S. 457 other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign S. 2639. A bill to restore integrity to Amer- At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the ica’s Election; to the Committee on Rules Relations. By Mr. COONS (for himself and Mr. names of the Senator from Delaware and Administration. (Mr. CARPER) and the Senator from By Mr. BROWN (for himself and Ms. KENNEDY): S. Res. 362. A resolution designating the Missouri (Mr. HAWLEY) were added as WARREN): S. 2640. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- week beginning on October 13, 2019, as ‘‘Na- cosponsors of S. 457, a bill to require cation Act of 1965 to make for-profit institu- tional Wildlife Refuge Week’’; to the Com- that $1 coins issued during 2019 honor tions ineligible for Federal student aid and mittee on the Judiciary. President George H.W. Bush and to di- to protect the integrity of nonprofit institu- By Mr. SCHUMER (for Ms. HARRIS): rect the Secretary of the Treasury to tions of higher education; to the Committee S. Res. 363. A resolution designating Octo- issue bullion coins during 2019 in honor ber 2019 as ‘‘National Youth Justice Action on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. of Barbara Bush. By Mr. RISCH (for himself, Mr. MENEN- Month’’; to the Committee on the Judiciary. S. 495 DEZ, Mr. RUBIO, Mr. JONES, Mr. GARD- By Mr. VAN HOLLEN (for himself, Mr. NER, and Mr. BARRASSO): CARDIN, Mr. KAINE, Mr. WARNER, and At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the S. 2641. A bill to promote United States na- Ms. CANTWELL): name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. tional security and prevent the resurgence of S. Res. 364. A resolution congratulating the COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. ISIS, and for other purposes; to the Com- Washington Mystics on winning the 2019 495, a bill to amend title 18, United Women’s National Basketball Association mittee on Foreign Relations. States Code, to reauthorize and expand By Mr. MARKEY (for himself and Ms. championship; considered and agreed to. WARREN): By Mr. COONS (for himself, Mr. the National Threat Assessment Center S. 2642. A bill to prohibit the construction MORAN, Mr. BOOZMAN, and Mr. of the Department of Homeland Secu- of natural gas compressor stations as part of LEAHY): rity.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:05 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.041 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5897 S. 621 Central and Lower Platte River Basin, S. 1280 At the request of Ms. DUCKWORTH, and for other purposes. At the request of Mr. CASEY, the the name of the Senator from Massa- S. 997 names of the Senator from Florida (Mr. chusetts (Mr. MARKEY) was added as a At the request of Ms. WARREN, the SCOTT) and the Senator from Arizona cosponsor of S. 621, a bill to amend the name of the Senator from North Da- (Ms. SINEMA) were added as cosponsors National Voter Registration Act of 1993 kota (Mr. CRAMER) was added as a co- of S. 1280, a bill to amend title XVIII of to require each State to implement a sponsor of S. 997, a bill to recognize and the Social Security Act to establish a process under which individuals who honor the service of individuals who system to notify individuals approach- are 16 years of age may apply to reg- served in the United States Cadet ing Medicare eligibility, to simplify ister to vote in elections for Federal of- Nurse Corps during World War II, and and modernize the eligibility enroll- fice in the State, to direct the Election for other purposes. ment process, and for other purposes. Assistance Commission to make grants S. 1004 S. 1381 to States to increase the involvement At the request of Mr. PETERS, the At the request of Mr. BOOZMAN, the of minors in public election activities, name of the Senator from Montana name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. and for other purposes. (Mr. DAINES) was added as a cosponsor WYDEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 785 of S. 1004, a bill to increase the number 1381, a bill to modify the presumption At the request of Mr. MORAN, the of U.S. Customs and Border Protection of service connection for veterans who name of the Senator from Texas (Mr. Office of Field Operations officers and were exposed to herbicide agents while CORNYN) was added as a cosponsor of S. support staff and to require reports serving in the Armed Forces in Thai- 785, a bill to improve mental health that identify staffing, infrastructure, land during the Vietnam era, and for care provided by the Department of and equipment needed to enhance secu- other purposes. Veterans Affairs, and for other pur- rity at ports of entry. S. 1421 poses. S. 1032 At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the S. 787 At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the names of the Senator from Maryland At the request of Ms. WARREN, the name of the Senator from Maryland (Mr. CARDIN) and the Senator from Illi- name of the Senator from Hawaii (Ms. (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor nois (Mr. DURBIN) were added as co- HIRONO) was added as a cosponsor of S. of S. 1032, a bill to amend the Internal sponsors of S. 1421, a bill to award a 787, a bill to make housing more afford- Revenue Code of 1986 to modify the def- Congressional Gold Medal to the 23d able, and for other purposes. inition of income for purposes of deter- Headquarters Special Troops and the mining the tax-exempt status of cer- S. 827 3133d Signal Service Company in rec- tain corporations. At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, ognition of their unique and distin- the name of the Senator from Massa- S. 1037 guished service as a ‘‘Ghost Army’’ At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the chusetts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a that conducted deception operations in cosponsor of S. 827, a bill to designate name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. Europe during World War II. SCHATZ) was added as a cosponsor of S. certain National Forest System land S. 1590 1037, a bill to amend title XVIII of the and certain public land under the juris- At the request of Mr. MERKLEY, the diction of the Secretary of the Interior Social Security Act to modernize pro- names of the Senator from Connecticut visions relating to rural health clinics in the States of Idaho, Montana, Or- (Mr. MURPHY) and the Senator from under Medicare. egon, Washington, and Wyoming as Nevada (Ms. ROSEN) were added as co- wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, S. 1088 sponsors of S. 1590, a bill to amend the wildland recovery areas, and biological At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the State Department Basic Authorities connecting corridors, and for other name of the Senator from Wisconsin Act of 1956 to authorize rewards for purposes. (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- thwarting wildlife trafficking linked to sor of S. 1088, a bill to amend the Immi- S. 846 transnational organized crime, and for gration and Nationality Act to require At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the other purposes. the President to set a minimum annual name of the Senator from North Da- S. 1627 goal for the number of refugees to be kota (Mr. HOEVEN) was added as a co- APITO admitted, and for other purposes. At the request of Mrs. C , the sponsor of S. 846, a bill to amend title name of the Senator from Michigan S. 1255 49, United States Code, to limit certain (Mr. PETERS) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. SASSE, the rolling stock procurements, and for of S. 1627, a bill to amend the Internal name of the Senator from Colorado other purposes. Revenue Code of 1986 to extend and (Mr. GARDNER) was added as a cospon- modify the section 45 credit for refined S. 888 sor of S. 1255, a bill to require the Sec- coal from steel industry fuel, and for At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the retary of Transportation to modify other purposes. name of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. provisions relating to hours of service PERDUE) was added as a cosponsor of S. requirements with respect to transpor- S. 1723 888, a bill to require a standard finan- tation of livestock and insects, and for At the request of Mr. BENNET, the cial aid offer form, and for other pur- other purposes. name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. ERKLEY poses. S. 1263 M ) was added as a cosponsor of S. 933 At the request of Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, S. 1723, a bill to amend the Omnibus At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, the names of the Senator from Ten- Parks and Public Lands Management the name of the Senator from Maine nessee (Mrs. BLACKBURN) and the Sen- Act of 1996 to provide for the establish- (Ms. COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor ator from Alabama (Mr. JONES) were ment of a Ski Area Fee Retention Ac- of S. 933, a bill to improve data collec- added as cosponsors of S. 1263, a bill to count. tion and monitoring of the Great require the Secretary of Veterans Af- S. 1725 Lakes, oceans, bays, estuaries, and fairs to establish an interagency task At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the coasts, and for other purposes. force on the use of public lands to pro- name of the Senator from New Hamp- S. 990 vide medical treatment and therapy to shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the veterans through outdoor recreation. sponsor of S. 1725, a bill to permit occu- name of the Senator from Nebraska S. 1264 pational therapists to conduct the ini- (Mr. SASSE) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. DAINES, the tial assessment visit and complete the of S. 990, a bill to authorize the Sec- name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. comprehensive assessment under a retary of the Interior to participate in SCOTT) was added as a cosponsor of S. Medicare home health plan of care for the implementation of the Platte River 1264, a bill to amend title 5, United certain rehabilitation cases. Recovery Implementation Program States Code, to deny Federal retire- S. 1731 First Increment Extension for threat- ment benefits to individuals convicted At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the ened and endangered species in the of child sex abuse. name of the Senator from Florida (Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:05 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.035 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5898 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 SCOTT) was added as a cosponsor of S. kota (Mr. ROUNDS) was added as a co- (Mr. SCOTT) was added as a cosponsor 1731, a bill to amend the Sarbanes- sponsor of S. 2054, a bill to post- of S. 2439, a bill to amend the Trade- Oxley Act of 2002 to require the Public humously award the Congressional mark Act of 1946 to provide that the li- Company Accounting Oversight Board Gold Medal, collectively, to Glen censing of a mark for use by a related to maintain a list of certain foreign Doherty, Tyrone Woods, J. Christopher company may not be construed as es- issuers, and for other purposes. Stevens, and Sean Smith, in recogni- tablishing an employment relationship S. 1757 tion of their contributions to the Na- between the owner of the mark, or an At the request of Ms. ERNST, the tion. authorizing person, and either that re- names of the Senator from South Da- S. 2132 lated company or the employees of kota (Mr. ROUNDS) and the Senator At the request of Mr. LANKFORD, the that related company, and for other from Maryland (Mr. CARDIN) were name of the Senator from Connecticut purposes. added as cosponsors of S. 1757, a bill to (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) was added as a co- S. 2507 award a Congressional Gold Medal, col- sponsor of S. 2132, a bill to promote se- At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the lectively, to the United States Army curity and provide justice for United name of the Senator from Arizona (Ms. Rangers Veterans of World War II in States victims of international ter- MCSALLY) was added as a cosponsor of recognition of their extraordinary serv- rorism. S. 2507, a bill to amend the Immigra- ice during World War II. S. 2158 tion and Nationality Act to authorize S. 1802 At the request of Ms. HASSAN, the admission of Canadian retirees as long- At the request of Mr. KAINE, the name of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. term visitors for pleasure described in name of the Senator from Alabama DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor section 101(a)(15)(B) of such Act, and (Mr. JONES) was added as a cosponsor of S. 2158, a bill to improve certain pro- for other purposes. of S. 1802, a bill to provide a work op- grams of the Department of Health and S. 2521 portunity tax credit for military Human Services with respect to heri- At the request of Mr. KAINE, the spouses and to provide for flexible table disorders. name of the Senator from Pennsyl- spending arrangements for childcare S. 2179 vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- services for military families. At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the sponsor of S. 2521, a bill to award S. 1846 name of the Senator from Montana grants for the recruitment, retention, At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the (Mr. DAINES) was added as a cosponsor and advancement of direct care work- name of the Senator from South Da- of S. 2179, a bill to amend the Older ers. kota (Mr. ROUNDS) was added as a co- Americans Act of 1965 to provide social S. 2530 sponsor of S. 1846, a bill to amend the service agencies with the resources to At the request of Mr. PERDUE, the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to pro- provide services to meet the urgent names of the Senator from Montana vide for engagements with State, local, needs of Holocaust survivors to age in (Mr. DAINES) and the Senator from New Tribal, and territorial governments, place with dignity, comfort, security, Hampshire (Ms. HASSAN) were added as and for other purposes. and quality of life. cosponsors of S. 2530, a bill to require S. 1891 S. 2203 the Secretary of Homeland Security to At the request of Mr. PETERS, the At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the establish a School Safety Clearing- name of the Senator from New Hamp- names of the Senator from North Da- house, and for other purposes. shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- kota (Mr. HOEVEN), the Senator from S. 2535 sponsor of S. 1891, a bill to provide for New Jersey (Mr. MENENDEZ), the Sen- At the request of Ms. SINEMA, her the inclusion on the Vietnam Veterans ator from Oregon (Mr. MERKLEY), the name was added as a cosponsor of S. Memorial Wall of the names of the sol- Senator from Michigan (Mr. PETERS), 2535, a bill to require the Secretary of diers who died on Flying Tiger Flight the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. SCHATZ), 739 on March 16, 1962. the Senator from South Dakota (Mr. Commerce to conduct an assessment and analysis relating to the decline in S. 1906 THUNE) and the Senator from Mis- the business formation rate in the At the request of Mr. BOOZMAN, the sissippi (Mr. WICKER) were added as co- United States. name of the Senator from Alabama sponsors of S. 2203, a bill to extend the (Mr. JONES) was added as a cosponsor transfer of Electronic Travel Author- S. 2570 of S. 1906, a bill to require the Sec- ization System fees from the Travel At the request of Ms. SINEMA, the retary of Veterans Affairs to provide fi- Promotion Fund to the Corporation for names of the Senator from California nancial assistance to eligible entities Travel Promotion (Brand USA) (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) and the Senator from to provide and coordinate the provision through fiscal year 2027, and for other Minnesota (Ms. SMITH) were added as of suicide prevention services for vet- purposes. cosponsors of S. 2570, a bill to award a erans at risk of suicide and veteran S. 2330 Congressional Gold Medal to Greg families through the award of grants to At the request of Mr. BLUMENTHAL, LeMond in recognition of his service to such entities, and for other purposes. the names of the Senator from Maine the United States as an athlete, activ- S. 1964 (Ms. COLLINS) and the Senator from Ne- ist, role model, and community leader. At the request of Ms. HIRONO, the vada (Ms. ROSEN) were added as cospon- S. 2579 name of the Senator from Minnesota sors of S. 2330, a bill to amend the Ted At the request of Ms. HIRONO, the (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. of S. 1964, a bill to support educational Act to provide for congressional over- BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of S. entities in fully implementing title IX sight of the board of directors of the 2579, a bill to direct the Director of the and reducing and preventing sex dis- United States Olympic and Paralympic Office of Science and Technology Pol- crimination in all areas of education, Committee and to protect amateur icy to carry out programs and activi- and for other purposes. athletes from emotional, physical, and ties to ensure that Federal science S. 1989 sexual abuse, and for other purposes. agencies and institutions of higher edu- At the request of Mr. SCOTT of South S. 2417 cation receiving Federal research and Carolina, the name of the Senator from At the request of Mr. KENNEDY, the development funding are fully engag- Florida (Mr. SCOTT) was added as a co- name of the Senator from Wyoming ing their entire talent pool, and for sponsor of S. 1989, a bill to amend title (Mr. BARRASSO) was added as a cospon- other purposes. XVIII of the Social Security Act to sor of S. 2417, a bill to provide for pay- S. 2590 provide for transparency of Medicare ment of proceeds from savings bonds to At the request of Mr. BRAUN, the secondary payer reporting information, a State with title to such bonds pursu- name of the Senator from South Da- and for other purposes. ant to the judgment of a court. kota (Mr. THUNE) was added as a co- S. 2054 S. 2439 sponsor of S. 2590, a bill to protect the At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the At the request of Mr. KING, the name dignity of fetal remains, and for other name of the Senator from South Da- of the Senator from South Carolina purposes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:05 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.037 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5899 S.J. RES. 53 able Care Act (ACA) are nearly 75 per- requirements or its protections for in- At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the cent higher than they were when the dividuals with pre-existing conditions. names of the Senator from Pennsyl- ACA went ‘‘live’’ in 2014. While individ- The bill provides three options for ex- vania (Mr. CASEY), the Senator from uals who are eligible for the ACA’s pre- pedited review so that states could Michigan (Mr. PETERS), the Senator mium tax credits are shielded from quickly stand-up their own programs from Minnesota (Ms. KLOBUCHAR), the these increases, the price of these sil- using the existing waiver process under Senator from New Hampshire (Mrs. ver plans is out of reach for many who section 1332 of the Affordable Care Act: SHAHEEN) and the Senator from Wash- are not eligible for these tax credits. First, a state can demonstrate that ington (Ms. CANTWELL) were added as Even ‘‘bronze plans’’—the lowest cost their program is an ‘‘invisible high-risk cosponsors of S.J. Res. 53, a joint reso- individual market policies available pool’’ in keeping with the design pio- lution providing for congressional dis- through the ACA exchanges—have be- neered by Maine early in this decade approval under chapter 8 of title 5, come unaffordable for those without and used as a template by Alaska more United States Code, of the rule sub- subsidies. Bronze plan premiums have recently; mitted by the Environmental Protec- gone up so much that they now exceed Second, a state can show that its pro- tion Agency relating to ‘‘Repeal of the those charged for silver plans in 2014, gram fits within the parameters of the Clean Power Plan; Emission Guidelines despite the fact that these bronze poli- ACA’s transitional reinsurance pro- for Greenhouse Gas Emissions From cies have far higher deductibles and gram, which expired at the end of 2016; Existing Electric Utility Generating out-of-pocket expenses. or Third, a state can submit what can Units; Revisions to Emission Guide- Individuals who make 400 percent or be described as a ‘‘copycat’’ application lines Implementing Regulations’’. less of the federal poverty level get a based on another state’s program that S. RES. 150 federal tax credit to help defray the monthly premium cost. But individuals has already received approval. At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the In lieu of these three expedited ap- who make just one dollar over that name of the Senator from Maryland proval options, a state may seek ap- level get no help at all, and must pay (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor proval of a program of their own de- the full premium on their own. These of S. Res. 150, a resolution expressing sign. Regardless of the option they se- premiums are simply unaffordable for the sense of the Senate that it is the lect, all states operating qualifying policy of the United States to com- middle-income families. The difference in premiums is shock- stabilization programs would be eligi- memorate the Armenian Genocide ing for many families. For example, in ble to receive an allocation from the through official recognition and re- funding provided by the bill. States Aroostook County, Maine, a 60 year-old membrance. may also add funds from other sources couple enrolled in a silver plan will pay S. RES. 318 to the mix. about $6,500 for coverage if they earn In addition, in 2021, states that do At the request of Mr. RISCH, the 400 percent or less of the federal pov- names of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. not wish to establish their own sta- erty level: in other words, as long as bilization program may instead receive WYDEN) and the Senator from Mis- they earn less than roughly $66,000. But sissippi (Mr. WICKER) were added as co- funding through the ‘‘federal fallback’’ if they earn just a dollar more, they that I described a few moments ago. sponsors of S. Res. 318, a resolution to will lose their eligibility for a premium support the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Finally, the bill would also extend tax credit, and will have to pay the en- the section 1332 ‘‘feedback effect’’ to Tuberculosis and Malaria, and the tire premium themselves—an incred- Sixth Replenishment. states that receive funding through the ible $36,500! federal fallback provision. This will en- f One step Congress could take to help sure that the benefits of lower pre- alleviate the rising cost of premiums in STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED miums are felt in all states as quickly the individual health insurance mar- as possible, giving states ample time to BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS kets is to provide States with addi- ON JUNE 13, 2019 seek and obtain approval of their own tional flexibility and support to design programs under the waiver process. By Ms. COLLINS (for herself and State-based stabilization programs In a recent letter to me endorsing Mr. MANCHIN): that would help offset the costs of cov- our bill, the National Association of In- S. 1868. A bill to provide support to ering consumers with high medical ex- surance Commissioners stressed that States to establish invisible high-risk penses. Once these costs are covered, ‘‘[alction must be taken to make cov- pool or reinsurance programs; to the the premiums needed to provide insur- erage more affordable or we will see Committee on Finance. ance to the rest of the population can even higher uninsured rates, more peo- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, rising be set at a much lower level. Thus far, ple move to less regulated plans, and health care costs are a major concern seven states—Maine, Alaska, Mary- sicker individual market pools.’’ The for millions of Americans—whether it’s land, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, NAIC’s letter goes on to note the suc- expensive health insurance premiums, and Wisconsin—have established such cess of stabilization programs at the high out-of-pocket expenses, or soaring programs. According to the health care state level, stating that such programs prescription drug costs. In the indi- experts at Avalere, the programs in are ‘‘a cost-effective way to signifi- vidual market, where 11.5 million these seven states have reduced pre- cantly reduce individual market pre- Americans who do not have employer- miums in the individual market by 20 miums’’ that can expand coverage and sponsored insurance have to go to buy percent compared to what they other- make it more affordable unsubsidized their insurance—including the 78,000 wise would have been, and saved the individuals and families. The NAIC individuals in Maine—premiums con- federal government nearly $1 billion in closed its letter with a call to imple- tinue to rise exponentially. funding in the first year, which was re- ment such programs nationwide. With this in mind, I am introducing turned to the states in the form of Also, a consortium of health care the Premium Reduction Act of 2019 ‘‘pass through’’ funding. providers, insurers, and stakeholders— with my good friend and colleague, Under the Premium Reduction Act, joined by the U.S. Chamber of Com- Senator JOE MANCHIN. Leading health $5 billion would be available annually merce—circulated a letter recently to care experts at Oliver Wyman indicate over three years to support states that Senate and House leadership urging that our legislation would lower aver- operate stabilization programs under them to adopt a proposal like the one age health insurance premiums for con- section 1332 of the Affordable Care Act. we are introducing as a ‘‘commonsense sumers in the individual market by as In addition, $500 million is provided to solution to significantly lower pre- much as 30 percent. In addition, more assist states with planning the design miums.’’ In their letter, they stressed than a million more individuals would of their own stabilization program, and that premium reduction programs can have health insurance that they now there is a ‘‘federal fallback’’ for 2021 to ‘‘help cover the costs of people with lack. give states time to apply for waivers significant health care needs and im- Data from the Kaiser Family Foun- under section 1332. It is important to prove the affordability of health care dation show premiums for the bench- note that our proposal does not change coverage,’’ especially for those who are mark ‘‘silver’’ plans under the Afford- in any way the ACA’s essential benefits not eligible for subsidies.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.039 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE S5900 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 17, 2019 Mr. President, I ask that these let- NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF INSUR- to declassify any and all information ters be entered into the RECORD imme- ANCE COMMISSIONERS AND THE relating to whether the government of diately after my remarks. CENTER FOR INSURANCE POLICY Saudi Arabia assisted a citizen or na- AND RESEARCH, tional of Saudi Arabia in departing the Efforts at further reform of Amer- June 12, 2019. United States while the citizen or na- ica’s health care system have been the Hon. SUSAN COLLINS, tional was awaiting trial or sentencing source of frustration and division in Senator, U.S. Senate, for a criminal offense committed in the this chamber. At the same time, many Washington, DC. DEAR SENATOR COLLINS: On behalf of the United States, and for other purposes; members of both parties are committed members of the National Association of In- considered and passed. to reducing health care costs and ex- surance Commissioners (NAIC) we write to S. 2635 panding access to quality, affordable express our support for your continued ef- coverage. The programs adopted by forts to help improve the individual health Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in seven pioneering states have a proven insurance markets in our states through the funding of state stabilization programs. Congress assembled, track-record in reducing premiums for While many states have seen more stable SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. consumers and would make policies in premium rates and carrier participation over This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Saudi Fugi- the individual market more affordable. the past two years, the fact remains that in tive Declassification Act of 2019’’. The bill Senator MANCHIN and I are in- all states premiums continue to be signifi- SEC. 2. DECLASSIFICATION OF ANY AND ALL IN- troducing today would help extend and cant for those who do not receive federal FORMATION RELATING TO ACTIONS fund these successful models to every subsidies. This has resulted in shrinking in- BY GOVERNMENT OF SAUDI ARABIA dividual markets and less stable risk pools. TO ASSIST PERSONS IN DEPARTING state that chooses to participate, help- Action must be taken to make coverage UNITED STATES WHO WERE AWAIT- ing to reduce premiums for the 11.5 more affordable or we will see even higher ING TRIAL OR SENTENCING IN million Americans who get their insur- uninsured rates, more people move to less- UNITED STATES. ance in the individual market nation- regulated plans, and sicker individual mar- Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the wide. I urge my colleagues to support ket pools. This is why commissioners from across the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in coordina- our bill. political spectrum have contacted their con- tion with the Director of National Intel- MAY 28, 2019. gressional delegations, testified before House ligence, shall declassify any and all informa- and Senate committees, and urged federal tion related to whether the government of DEAR LEADERS MCCONNELL AND SCHUMER, policymakers to take immediate action to Saudi Arabia materially assisted or facili- SPEAKER PELOSI AND LEADER MCCARTHY: As stabilize the individual health insurance providers of health care and coverage to hun- tated any citizen or national of Saudi Arabia market. In particular, we support your pro- dreds of millions of Americans, we write to in departing from the United States while posal to provide federal funding for state sta- you to urge prompt action to lower health the citizen or national was awaiting trial or bilization programs, as well as for grants to sentencing for a criminal offense committed insurance premiums. The individual market help states develop innovative solutions in the United States. is a critical source of coverage for millions through Section 1332 waivers. We also sup- f of Americans, helping them to access care. port the creation of a federal program to as- Unfortunately, however, individual market sist consumers in states unable to imple- SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS premiums are often unaffordable for many ment their own program quickly. middle class families who do not receive any State reinsurance programs and invisible financial assistance. With health insurers fi- high-risk pools have already proven their ef- SENATE RESOLUTION 360—AFFIRM- nalizing their premium rates for 2020, the fectiveness. According to a recent Avalere ING THE IMPORTANCE OF AC- time is now for Congress to establish a pre- study, the seven states that have already im- CESS TO SAFE, QUALITY EDU- mium reduction/reinsurance program to help plemented a program through a Section 1332 cover the costs of people with significant waiver using state funds have reduced pre- CATION, INCLUDING PROTECTION health care needs and improve the afford- mium by almost 20%. Additional federal FROM ATTACKS ON EDUCATION, ability of health care coverage. funding, as outlined in your bill, would pro- FOR CHILDREN IN CONFLICT A reinsurance program is a commonsense vide even more benefit to consumers, and ex- SETTINGS solution to significantly lower premiums, tend the benefits to all states. Creating a federal market stabilization Mr. MURPHY submitted the fol- which would greatly improve access to cov- program is a cost-effective way to signifi- lowing resolution; which was referred erage and care. Independent analyses, includ- cantly reduce individual market premiums, to the Committee on Foreign Rela- ing ones by Oliver Wyman and Avalere thus making coverage more affordable to un- tions: Health, show that a premium reduction/rein- subsidized individuals and families and grow- S. RES. 360 surance program could reduce premiums by ing the individual market pool. We have seen up to 20% while preserving the comprehen- it work in the handful of states that have Whereas providing children with education siveness of coverage, primarily helping those implemented such programs; it is time to is critical to the international, humani- who are not subsidy eligible. implement it nationwide. tarian, and development efforts of the United States; We understand that there are numerous ef- Sincerely, Whereas 142,000,000 children live in high-in- forts in Congress underway to establish a ERIC A. CIOPPA, tensity conflict zones, according to a Feb- premium reduction/reinsurance program, NAIC President, Su- ruary 2019 report from Save the Children; and we are happy to work with all parties to- perintendent, Maine Whereas grave violations against children, wards a final bill that will improve the indi- Bureau of Insur- which are defined by the United Nations Se- vidual market for 2020 and beyond. ance. curity Council as the killing and maiming of RAYMOND G. FARMER, We urge you to deliver on the promise to NAIC President-Elect, children, recruitment or use of children as reduce premiums for millions of deserving Director, South soldiers, sexual violence against children, Americans and their families so they can ac- Carolina Depart- abduction of children, and attacks against cess the care they need. We look forward to ment of Insurance. schools or hospitals, have nearly tripled working with you in support of this promise. since 2010; DAVID ALTMAIER, Sincerely, NAIC Vice President, Whereas attacks on education settings, in- AMERICA’S HEALTH Commissioner, Flor- cluding targeted killings, sexual and gender- INSURANCE PLANS. ida Office of Insur- based violence, abduction, child recruitment, AMERICAN ACADEMY OF ance. intimidation, threats, military occupation, FAMILY PHYSICIANS. and destruction of property, are common DEAN L. CAMERON, AMERICAN BENEFITS NAIC Secretary-Treas- tactics in conflict; COUNCIL. urer, Director, Regu- Whereas there were 1,432 verified attacks AMERICAN HOSPITAL lation Idaho Depart- on schools in conflict contexts in 2017, ac- ASSOCIATION. ment of Insurance. cording to the United Nations Secretary AMERICAN MEDICAL General’s annual report on children and ASSOCIATION. f armed conflict; BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED Whereas conflict limits educational oppor- ASSOCIATION. BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS tunities for millions of students worldwide, FEDERATION OF AMERICAN and regions with low rates of education have HOSPITALS. By Mr. WYDEN: a 50-percent chance of experiencing conflict; U.S. CHAMBER OF S. 2635. A bill to require the Director Whereas 27,000,000 children of primary and COMMERCE. of the Federal Bureau of Investigation lower secondary school age are out of school

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.052 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5901 in 24 conflict-affected countries, and refugee (C) to support policies and programs to re- for refugees and operating more than a dozen children are 5 times more likely to be out of turn refugee children to educational settings camps for displaced families, helping tens of school as compared to nonrefugee children; as soon as possible upon arrival in a host thousands of people, many of them the wives Whereas only 61 percent of refugee children country; and children of ISIS fighters; attend primary school compared to 92 per- (D) to provide support for the inclusion of Whereas the Government of Turkey is hos- cent of nonrefugee children, only 23 percent refugee children in host country national tile toward Kurdish groups living along its of refugee adolescents attend secondary education plans and systems whenever pos- border with Syria, claiming that the Kurdish school compared to 84 percent globally, and sible; fighters in Syria are linked to the Kurdistan only 1 percent of refugee children make it to (E) to recognize that education in emer- Workers Party (PKK), which has been in con- a university; gencies and child protection programs are flict with Turkey for the past several dec- Whereas education in emergencies is life- lifesaving and complementary efforts that ades; saving, providing access to critical services, are strongest when equally supported; Whereas the SDF has not engaged in offen- including nutrition, health services, mental (F) to ensure that marginalized children in sive operations against Turkey and has health and psychosocial support, water, sani- conflict settings, especially girls, children served as a buffer preventing extremist fight- tation, and hygiene; with disabilities, those suffering from trau- ers from launching attacks into Turkey and Whereas education supports children’s ma, and those excluded from access to qual- beyond; safety and well-being as part of child protec- ity and inclusive education due to other Whereas the United States Armed Forces tion strategies; causes, are able to access safe, quality edu- were ordered to withdraw from sites along Whereas education accounts for less than 2 cation; the Turkish border in northern Syria, fol- percent of total global humanitarian funding (G) to ensure appropriate training and sup- lowed by a Turkish incursion that began on and child-specific protection programs ac- port for teachers to best support students’ October 9, 2019; count for 0.53 percent; distinct needs, including their psychosocial Whereas the withdrawal of United States Whereas girls and boys experience conflict well-being, and to apply conflict-sensitive troops and the ongoing conflict between Tur- differently, encounter distinct gender-re- and gender-responsive approaches; key and Kurdish-led fighters will allow ISIS lated barriers to education, and require gen- (H) to encourage the inclusion of child pro- to profit from the instability in the region, der-responsive and context-specific ap- tection experts in peacekeeping missions, to as SDF counter-ISIS missions have been sus- proaches to education, child protection, and push for reporting requirements on attacks pended, and Kurdish-held ISIS prisoners are health services, including mental health and on schools and children in peacekeeping in danger of being released from confine- psychosocial support programming; mandates, and to support the inclusion of ment, as the SDF no longer have the capac- Whereas girls, children with disabilities, child rights experts in justice and account- ity to guard detention facilities while they and those impacted by traumatic experi- ability mechanisms; are engaged in defensive operations against ences living in conflict contexts face signifi- (I) to support preventative measures, such Turkish forces; and cant barriers to access, enrollment, and at- as early warning systems and rapid response Whereas the withdrawal of United States tendance in schools; mechanisms, in places where attacks on edu- forces from northern Syria has severely dam- Whereas access to quality educational op- cation occur or are highly likely to occur; aged our relationship with our Kurdish part- portunities can contribute to peace and secu- and ners, effectively forcing them to ally with the Assad regime, allowing the Governments rity as well as mitigate factors that lead to (J) to work in collaboration with civil soci- of the Russian Federation and Iran to expand conflict and displacement; and ety experts to better prevent and respond to their influence in the region, while at the Whereas Congress passed the Reinforcing attacks on education, and with relevant mul- same time laying the groundwork for an Education Accountability in Development tilateral institutions and other nations to ISIS resurgence, damaging the United Act (Public Law 115–56), and the Protecting share responsibility for monitoring, pre- States’s standing in the international com- Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable venting, and responding to attacks on edu- munity and undermining both regional secu- Settings Act (Public Law 115–442), which rec- cation. rity as well as our own national security: ognize the importance of education in crisis f Now, therefore, be it and conflict situations, and require reporting SENATE RESOLUTION 361—AC- Resolved, That is the sense of the Senate— on progress toward a comprehensive United (1) to acknowledge the importance of the States strategy to promote quality basic KNOWLEDGING THE KURDS’ VITAL ROLE IN STOPPING THE Kurds’ vital role in stopping the spread of education in partner countries and address ISIS militants in the region; the needs of displaced girls: Now, therefore, SPREAD OF ISIS MILITANTS IN (2) that ISIS still poses a danger in the be it THE MIDDLE EAST, AND FOR Middle East and beyond and must not be al- Resolved, That the Senate— OTHER PURPOSES lowed the opportunity to mount an effective (1) condemns attacks on education set- Ms. ERNST (for herself and Mr. resurgence campaign; tings, including violence against schools, the RUBIO) submitted the following resolu- (3) that the United States Government military use of schools, acts of sexual vio- tion; which was referred to the Com- must continue its leading role in promoting lence against children in school settings, and peace in the Middle East and fighting the abduction and recruitment of children mittee on Foreign Relations.: against terrorist groups such as ISIS, wher- into armed forces from schools; S. RES. 361 ever they may be located; and (2) affirms the commitment of the United Whereas, in 2014, the United States led an (4) that the Department of Defense, in con- States Government to support educational international coalition against Islamic State junction with the Department of State, services for children affected by conflict, in- (ISIS) militants, conducting airstrikes and should provide a briefing to Congress within cluding the most vulnerable and later building military bases on Syrian terri- 30 days outlining plans and a strategy to marginalized, beginning in the earliest tory to assist ground operations against continue the global fight against ISIS, spe- phases of humanitarian response efforts— ISIS; cifically addressing the ongoing threat of (A) to save lives and facilitate access to Whereas a coalition of Arab and Kurdish ISIS in Syria and Iraq and how this strategy critical services, including nutrition, health, militias, known as the Syrian Democratic will— psychosocial support, water, sanitation, and Forces (SDF), with the help of United States (A) prevent an ISIS resurgence in Syria; hygiene; airstrikes and military advisors, drove ISIS (B) prevent ISIS efforts to capitalize from (B) to support physical, psychosocial, and away from the Turkish border and out of recent developments; cognitive protection; and northern Syria; (C) contain any ISIS expansion in Syria or (C) to support greater short- and long-term Whereas, since ISIS militants swept across in nations bordering Syria; stability, promote peace, and support the Syria and military action against ISIS (D) mitigate the threat of ISIS attacks on vital contributions of women and girls to began, the SDF has done the critical work of the United States homeland or our partners communities, nations, and regions around clearing, holding, and governing the terri- and allies; and the world; and tory previously conquered by the ISIS mili- (E) protect the gains made in the fight (3) calls on the United States Govern- tants; against ISIS since 2014. ment— Whereas the SDF became one of the United f (A) to monitor attacks on education set- States’ strongest partners in fighting ISIS as tings, including attacks on schools, teachers, fearless and loyal fighters who fought fierce- SENATE RESOLUTION 362—DESIG- and students, and attacks that are gender-re- ly alongside United States special operations NATING THE WEEK BEGINNING lated, and to use that information to support forces and other coalition partners, losing ON OCTOBER 13, 2019, AS ‘‘NA- effective and coordinated diplomatic and over 10,000 SDF troops throughout the course TIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE programmatic responses; of military operations; WEEK’’ (B) to hold accountable all parties, includ- Whereas the SDF with coalition support ing government and non-state actors, re- captured approximately 11,000 ISIS fighters Mr. COONS (for himself and Mr. KEN- sponsible for attacks on schools and other and detained them in Kurdish-held territory; NEDY) submitted the following resolu- grave violations against children in armed Whereas the Kurds have assisted humani- tion; which was referred to the Com- conflict; tarian efforts in the area, including caring mittee on the Judiciary:

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S. RES. 362 and there is a national wildlife refuge lo- (2) acknowledged by the Supreme Court of Whereas, in 1903, President Theodore Roo- cated within a 1-hour drive of nearly every the United States, State supreme courts, and sevelt established the first national wildlife metropolitan area in the United States, many State and Federal laws that prohibit refuge on Pelican Island in Florida; which has enabled national wildlife refuges youth under the age of 18 from taking on Whereas, in 2019, the National Wildlife Ref- to employ, educate, and engage young people major adult responsibilities such as voting, uge System, administered by the United from all backgrounds in exploring, con- jury duty, and military service; States Fish and Wildlife Service, is the pre- necting with, and preserving the natural her- Whereas youth who are placed under the mier system of land and water to conserve itage of the United States; commitment of the juvenile court system wildlife in the world and has grown to 567 na- Whereas, since 1995, national wildlife ref- are able to access age-appropriate services tional wildlife refuges and 38 wetland man- uges across the United States have held fes- and education and remain closer to their agement districts located in every State and tivals, educational programs, guided tours, families, which reduces the likelihood that territory of the United States; and other events to celebrate National Wild- those youth will commit offenses in the fu- Whereas national wildlife refuges are im- life Refuge Week during the second full week ture; portant recreational and tourism destina- of October; Whereas, every year in the United States, tions in communities across the United Whereas the United States Fish and Wild- an estimated 76,000 youth are tried, sen- States and offer a variety of recreational op- life Service has designated the week begin- tenced, or incarcerated as adults, and most portunities, including 6 wildlife-dependent ning on October 13, 2019, as ‘‘National Wild- of those youth are prosecuted for nonviolent uses that the National Wildlife Refuge Sys- life Refuge Week’’; and offenses; tem manages, specifically hunting, fishing, Whereas the designation of National Wild- Whereas most laws allowing the prosecu- wildlife observation, photography, environ- life Refuge Week by the Senate would recog- tion of youth as adults were enacted before mental education, and interpretation; nize more than a century of conservation in the publication of research-based evidence Whereas the National Wildlife Refuge Sys- the United States, raise awareness about the by the Centers for Disease Control and Pre- tem receives more than 50,000,000 visitors an- importance of wildlife and the National vention and the Office of Juvenile Justice nually, which generates more than Wildlife Refuge System, and celebrate the and Delinquency Prevention of the Depart- $3,200,000,000 in sales and more than 41,000 myriad recreational opportunities available ment of Justice demonstrating that pros- jobs in local economies; for the enjoyment of the protected land and ecuting youth in adult court actually de- Whereas 382 units of the National Wildlife water within that system: Now, therefore, be creases public safety as, on average, youth Refuge System have hunting programs that it prosecuted in adult court are 34 percent receive more than 2,000,000 hunting visits an- Resolved, That the Senate— more likely to commit future crimes than (1) designates the week beginning on Octo- nually, and 316 units of the National Wildlife youth retained in the juvenile court system; ber 13, 2019, as ‘‘National Wildlife Refuge Refuge System have fishing programs that Whereas youth of color, youth with disabil- Week’’; receive more than 7,000,000 fishing visits an- ities, and youth with mental health issues (2) encourages the observance of National nually; are disproportionally represented at all Wildlife Refuge Week with appropriate Whereas the National Wildlife Refuge Sys- stages of the criminal justice system; events and activities; tem has hosted more than 30,000,000 wildlife Whereas it is harmful to public safety and (3) acknowledges the importance of na- observation visits in recent years; to young offenders to confine youth in adult tional wildlife refuges for their recreational Whereas national wildlife refuges are im- jails or prisons where they are significantly opportunities and contribution to local portant to local businesses and gateway more likely to be physically and sexually as- economies across the United States; communities; saulted and often placed in solitary confine- Whereas the National Wildlife Refuge Sys- (4) finds that national wildlife refuges play a vital role in securing the hunting and fish- ment; tem encompasses every kind of ecosystem in Whereas youth sentenced as adults receive the United States, including temperate, ing heritage of the United States for future generations; an adult criminal record that hinders future tropical, and boreal forests, wetlands, education and employment opportunities; deserts, grasslands, arctic tundras, and re- (5) identifies the significance of national wildlife refuges in advancing the traditions Whereas youth who receive extremely long mote islands, and spans 12 time zones from sentences deserve an opportunity to dem- the United States Virgin Islands to Guam; of wildlife observation, photography, envi- ronmental education, and interpretation; onstrate their potential to grow and change; Whereas national wildlife refuges are home and to more than— (6) recognizes the importance of national wildlife refuges to wildlife conservation, the Whereas, in October, people around the (1) 700 species of birds; United States participate in Youth Justice (2) 220 species of mammals; protection of imperiled species and eco- (3) 250 species of reptiles and amphibians; systems, and compatible uses; Action Month to increase public awareness and (7) acknowledges the role of national wild- of the issues facing youth transferred to the (4) 1,000 species of fish; life refuges in conserving waterfowl and wa- adult criminal justice system and to provide Whereas national wildlife refuges are the terfowl habitat under the Migratory Bird people across the United States with an op- primary Federal land on which the produc- Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.); portunity to develop action-oriented events tion, migration, and wintering habitats for (8) reaffirms the support of the Senate for in their communities: Now, therefore, be it waterfowl are fostered; wildlife conservation and the National Wild- Resolved, That the Senate— Whereas, since 1934, the Migratory Bird life Refuge System; and (1) acknowledges that the collateral con- Conservation Fund, which has been largely (9) expresses the intent of the Senate— sequences normally applied in the adult funded from the sale of the Federal Duck (A) to continue working to conserve wild- criminal justice system should not auto- Stamp to outdoor enthusiasts, has generated life; and matically apply to youth arrested for crimes more than $1,500,000,000 and enabled the con- (B) to manage the National Wildlife Refuge before the age of 18; servation of more than 5,900,000 acres of System for current and future generations. (2) designates October 2019 as ‘‘National Youth Justice Action Month’’; and habitat for waterfowl and numerous other f species in the National Wildlife Refuge Sys- (3) recognizes and supports the goals and tem; SENATE RESOLUTION 363—DESIG- ideals of National Youth Justice Action Whereas national wildlife refuges provide NATING OCTOBER 2019 AS ‘‘NA- Month. protection to more than 380 threatened and TIONAL YOUTH JUSTICE ACTION f endangered species; MONTH’’ Whereas national wildlife refuges are cores SENATE RESOLUTION 364—CON- Mr. SCHUMER (for Ms. HARRIS) sub- of conservation for larger landscapes and re- GRATULATING THE WASHINGTON mitted the following resolution; which sources for other agencies of the Federal MYSTICS ON WINNING THE 2019 was referred to the Committee on the Government, State governments, private WOMEN’S NATIONAL BASKET- Judiciary: landowners, and organizations in efforts to BALL ASSOCIATION CHAMPION- S. RES. 363 secure the wildlife heritage of the United SHIP States; Whereas the historical role of the juvenile Whereas more than 38,000 volunteers and court system is to rehabilitate and treat Mr. VAN HOLLEN (for himself, Mr. almost 200 national wildlife refuge ‘‘Friends’’ young offenders while holding them account- CARDIN, Mr. KAINE, Mr. WARNER, and organizations contribute approximately able and maintaining public safety, and the Ms. CANTWELL) submitted the following 1,350,000 volunteer hours annually, the equiv- juvenile court system is therefore better resolution; which was considered and alent of 650 full-time employees, and provide equipped to work with youth than the adult agreed to: an important link to local communities; criminal justice system, which is punitive in Whereas national wildlife refuges provide nature; S. RES. 364 an important opportunity for children to dis- Whereas youth are developmentally dif- Whereas, on October 10, 2019, the Wash- cover and gain a greater appreciation for the ferent from adults, and those differences ington Mystics won the 2019 Women’s Na- natural world; have been— tional Basketball Association (referred to in Whereas there are national wildlife refuges (1) documented by research on the adoles- this preamble as the ‘‘WNBA’’) champion- located in several urban and suburban areas cent brain; and ship;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:33 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.047 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5903 Whereas that October 10, 2019, win is the Whereas women and children suffer the Whereas the people of the United States first WNBA championship won by the Wash- most serious effects of hunger and malnutri- can express their concern for the plight of ington Mystics in the 22 years that the tion; hungry and malnourished people throughout Washington Mystics have been in the WNBA; Whereas millions of children die each year the world by study, advocacy, and action: Whereas the Washington Mystics beat the from hunger-related illness and disease; Now, therefore, be it Connecticut Sun in the WNBA finals; Whereas many people suffer permanent Resolved, That the Senate— Whereas the Washington Mystics— physical or mental impairment because of (1) designates October 16, 2019, and October (1) dominated the competition in the reg- vitamin or protein deficiencies; 16, 2020, as ‘‘World Food Day’’; and ular season, with 26 wins and 8 losses, the Whereas the United States has a long tra- (2) encourages the people of the United best record of any team in the WNBA; and dition of demonstrating humanitarian con- States to observe the days with appropriate (2) earned the top seed in the playoffs; cern for the hungry and malnourished people ceremonies and activities. Whereas the Washington Mystics play of the world; f home games at the Entertainment and Whereas there is a growing concern in the Sports Arena in Southeast Washington, DC; United States and in other countries about AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND Whereas the 2019 roster of Washington threats to the future food supply, including— PROPOSED Mystics players includes— (1) misuse and overuse of land and water; (1) Ariel Atkins; (2) loss of biological diversity; and SA 946. Mr. MCCONNELL proposed an (2) Natasha Cloud; (3) erosion of genetic resources on a global amendment to Treaty Doc. 116–1, Protocol to (3) Elena Delle Donne; scale; the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Ac- (4) Tianna Hawkins; Whereas the world community increas- cession of the Republic of North Macedonia. (5) Myisha Hines-Allen; ingly calls upon the United States to resolve SA 947. Mr. MCCONNELL proposed an (6) Kiara Leslie; food problems stemming from natural- and amendment to amendment SA 946 proposed (7) Emma Meesseman; (8) Kim Mestdagh; human-made disasters by providing humani- by Mr. MCCONNELL to the resolution of rati- (9) Aerial Powers; tarian assistance; fication for Treaty Doc. 116–1, supra. (10) LaToya Sanders; Whereas the United States— f (11) Kristi Toliver; and (1) plays a major role in the development (12) Shatori Walker-Kimbrough; and implementation of international food TEXT OF AMENDMENTS and agricultural trade standards and prac- Whereas Emma Meesseman received the SA 946. Mr. MCCONNELL proposed an tices; and 2019 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player amendment to Treaty Doc. 116–1, Pro- award; (2) recognizes the positive role that the Whereas Elena Delle Donne received the global food trade can play in enhancing tocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 2019 WNBA League Most Valuable Player human nutrition and alleviating hunger; 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of award; Whereas, although progress has been made North Macedonia; as follows: Whereas Natasha Cloud received the 2019 in reducing the incidence of hunger and mal- At the end add the following. WNBA Dawn Staley Community Leadership nutrition in the United States, certain ‘‘This Treaty shall be effective 1 day after award; groups remain vulnerable to malnutrition the date of ratification.’’ Whereas the 2019 Washington Mystics and related diseases; Whereas the conservation of natural re- coaching staff includes— SA 947. Mr. MCCONNELL proposed an (1) Head Coach Mike Thibault; sources, the preservation of biological diver- amendment to amendment SA 946 pro- (2) Assistant Coach Marianne Stanley; and sity, and strong public and private agricul- (3) Assistant Coach Eric Thibault; tural research programs are required for the posed by Mr. MCCONNELL to the resolu- Whereas Ted Leonsis, founder, chairman, United States— tion of ratification for Treaty Doc. 116– principal partner, and chief executive officer (1) to remain food secure; and 1, Protocol to the North Atlantic Trea- of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, (2) to continue to aid the hungry and mal- ty of 1949 on the Accession of the Re- which owns the Washington Mystics, has nourished people of the world; public of North Macedonia; as follows: Whereas the United States is a world lead- built a culture of success and contributed Strike ‘‘1 day’’ and insert ‘‘2 days’’ greatly to Washington, DC, and the sur- er in the development of agricultural innova- rounding region through philanthropy; tion and technology aimed at enhancing the f Whereas the Washington Mystics have ex- improved production, safety, and quality of the world food supply and must continue to AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO hibited dedication to positive social impact MEET by strengthening communities through the retain that role; Mystics Care partnership with organizations Whereas participation by private vol- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I in Washington, DC, and the surrounding re- untary organizations and businesses, work- have 7 requests for committees to meet gion; and ing with national governments and the inter- during today’s session of the Senate. national community, is essential in the Whereas the dedication and hard work of They have the approval of the Majority the Washington Mystics have inspired and search for ways to increase food production in developing countries and improve food and Minority leaders. empowered girls, boys, women, and men of Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph all ages: Now, therefore, be it distribution to hungry and malnourished Resolved, That the Senate— people; 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- (1) recognizes the Washington Mystics for Whereas the Food and Agriculture Organi- ate, the following committees are au- winning the 2019 Women’s National Basket- zation of the United Nations (referred to in thorized to meet during today’s session ball Association championship; this preamble as the ‘‘FAO’’) is mandated to of the Senate: lead global efforts to address food and nutri- (2) applauds the people of Washington, DC, COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND and the surrounding region for their enthusi- tion security issues; Whereas the member nations of the FAO FORESTRY astic support of the Washington Mystics; The Committee on Agriculture, Nu- (3) supports equity in men’s and women’s have unanimously designated October 16 of professional sports; and each year as ‘‘World Food Day’’; trition, and Forestry is authorized to (4) respectfully requests the Secretary of Whereas the FAO has worked to organize meet during the session of the Senate the Senate to transmit an enrolled copy of activities and efforts on ‘‘World Food Day’’ on Thursday, October 17, 2019, at 10 this resolution to the founder, chairman, in over 130 countries to promote awareness a.m., to conduct a hearing. of and action for people suffering from hun- principal partner, and chief executive officer COMMITTEE ON ARMED’SERVICES ger and malnutrition; of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Ted The Committee on Armed Services is Leonsis. Whereas past observances of ‘‘World Food Day’’ have been supported— authorized to meet during the session f (1) by proclamations by Congress, the of the Senate on Thursday, October 17, SENATE RESOLUTION 365—DESIG- President, the 50 States, the District of Co- 2019, at 9 a.m., to conduct a hearing. lumbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, NATING OCTOBER 16, 2019, AND COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN and the territories and possessions of the AFFAIRS OCTOBER 16, 2020, AS ‘‘WORLD United States; and FOOD DAY’’ (2) by programs of the Department of Agri- The Committee on Banking. Housing, Mr. COONS (for himself, Mr. MORAN, culture and other Federal departments and and Urban Affairs is authorized to Mr. BOOZMAN, and Mr. LEAHY) sub- agencies; meet during the session of the Senate mitted the following resolution; which Whereas private voluntary organizations on Thursday, October 17, 2019, at 10 and community leaders are participating in a.m., to conduct a hearing. was considered and agreed to: planning ‘‘World Food Day’’ observances in S. RES. 365 2019 and 2020, and a growing number of these COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL Whereas hunger and malnutrition are daily organizations and leaders are using ‘‘World RESOURCES facts of life for hundreds of millions of peo- Food Day’’ as a focal point for year-round The Committee on Energy and Nat- ple around the world; programs; and ural Resources is authorized to meet

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ANTI-RETALIATION PROTECTION FOR authorized to meet during the session now ask for a second reading, and in WHISTLEBLOWERS. of the Senate on Wednesday, October order to place the bill on the calendar ‘‘(a) WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS FOR EM- 16, 2019, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing under the provisions of rule XIV, I ob- PLOYEES, CONTRACTORS, SUBCONTRACTORS, AND AGENTS.— ject to my own request. on the following nominations: Halil ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—No employer may dis- Suleyman Ozerden, of Mississippi, to be The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- charge, demote, suspend, threaten, harass, or United States Circuit Judge for the tion having been heard, the bill will re- in any other manner discriminate against a Fifth Circuit, David B. Barlow, to be ceive its second reading on the next covered individual in the terms and condi- United States District Judge for the legislative day. tions of employment of the covered indi- District of Utah, John Fitzgerald f vidual because of any lawful act done by the Kness, to be United States District covered individual— HIDDEN FIGURES CONGRESSIONAL ‘‘(A) to provide or cause to be provided to Judge for the Northern District of Illi- GOLD MEDAL ACT the Federal Government or a person with su- nois, R. Austin Huffaker, Jr., to be pervisory authority over the covered indi- United States District Judge for the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I vidual (or such other person working for the Middle District of Alabama, Lee Philip ask unanimous consent that the Sen- employer who has the authority to inves- Rudofsky, to be United States District ate proceed to the immediate consider- tigate, discover, or terminate misconduct) Judge for the Eastern District of Ar- ation of Calendar No. 214, H.R. 1396. information relating to— kansas, Justin Reed Walker, to be The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ‘‘(i) any violation of, or any act or omis- clerk will report the bill by title. sion the covered individual reasonably be- United States District Judge for the lieves to be a violation of, the antitrust laws; Western District of Kentucky, Eleni The senior assistant legislative clerk read as follows: or Maria Roumel, of Maryland, to be a ‘‘(ii) any violation of, or any act or omis- Judge of the United States Court of A bill (H.R. 1396) to award Congressional sion the covered individual reasonably be- Federal Claims, Danielle J. Hunsaker, Gold Medals to Katherine Johnson and Dr. lieves to be a violation of, another criminal Christine Darden, to posthumously award law committed in conjunction with a poten- of Oregon, to be United States Circuit Congressional Gold Medals to Dorothy Judge for the Ninth Circuit, Steven J. tial violation of the antitrust laws or in con- Vaughan and Mary Jackson, and to award a junction with an investigation by the De- Menashi, to be United States Circuit Congressional Gold Medal to honor all of the partment of Justice of a potential violation Judge for the Second Circuit, William women who contributed to the success of the of the antitrust laws; or Joseph Nardini, of Connecticut, to be National Aeronautics and Space Administra- ‘‘(B) to cause to be filed, testify in, partici- United States Circuit Judge for the tion during the Space Race. pate in, or otherwise assist a Federal Gov- Second Circuit, Jodi W. Dishman, to There being no objection, the Senate ernment investigation or a Federal Govern- be, United States District Judge for proceeded to consider the bill. ment proceeding filed or about to be filed the Western District of Oklahoma, Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous (with any knowledge of the employer) relat- consent that the bill be considered read ing to— Karen Spencer Marston, to be United ‘‘(i) any violation of, or any act or omis- States District Judge for the Eastern a third time and passed and that the sion the covered individual reasonably be- District of Pennsylvania, Richard Ear- motion to reconsider be considered lieves to be a violation of, the antitrust laws; nest Myers II, to be United States Dis- made and laid upon the table. or trict Judge for the Eastern District of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘(ii) any violation of, or any act or omis- North Carolina, Sarah E. Pitlyk, to be objection, it is so ordered. sion the covered individual reasonably be- United States District Judge for the The bill (H.R. 1396) was ordered to a lieves to be a violation of, another criminal Eastern District of Missouri, Anuraag third reading, was read the third time, law committed in conjunction with a poten- and passed. tial violation of the antitrust laws or in con- Singhal, to be United States District junction with an investigation by the De- Judge for the Southern District of f partment of Justice of a potential violation Florida, Daniel Mack Traynor, to be CRIMINAL ANTITRUST ANTI- of the antitrust laws. United States District Judge for the RETALIATION ACT OF 2019 ‘‘(2) LIMITATION ON PROTECTIONS.—Para- District of North Dakota, and David M. graph (1) shall not apply to any covered indi- DeVillers, to be United States Attor- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I vidual if— ney for the Southern District of Ohio, ask unanimous consent that the Sen- ‘‘(A) the covered individual planned and Department of Justice. ate proceed to the immediate consider- initiated a violation or attempted violation ation of Calendar No. 163, S. 2258. of the antitrust laws; SUBCOMMITTEE ON SECURITY The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ‘‘(B) the covered individual planned and The Subcommittee on Security of the clerk will report the bill by title. initiated a violation or attempted violation Committee on Commerce, Science, and The senior assistant legislative clerk of another criminal law in conjunction with Transportation is authorized to meet a violation or attempted violation of the read as follows: antitrust laws; or during the session of the Senate on A bill (S. 2258) to provide anti-retaliation Thursday, October 17, 2019, at 10:30 ‘‘(C) the covered individual planned and protections for antitrust whistleblowers. initiated an obstruction or attempted ob- a.m., to conduct a hearing. There being no objection, the Senate struction of an investigation by the Depart- SUBCOMMITTEE ON CLEAN AIR AND NUCLEAR proceeded to consider the bill. ment of Justice of a violation of the anti- SAFETY Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous trust laws. The Subcommittee on Clean Air and consent that the bill be considered read ‘‘(3) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: Nuclear Safety of the Committee on ‘‘(A) ANTITRUST LAWS.—The term ‘anti- a third time and passed and that the trust laws’ means section 1 or 3 of the Sher- Environment and Public Works is au- motion to reconsider be considered thorized to meet during the session of man Act (15 U.S.C. 1 and 3). made and laid upon the table. ‘‘(B) COVERED INDIVIDUAL.—The term ‘cov- the Senate on Thursday, October 17, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ered individual’ means an employee, con- 2019, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing. objection, it is so ordered. tractor, subcontractor, or agent of an em- f The bill (S. 2258) was ordered to be ployer. ‘‘(C) EMPLOYER.—The term ‘employer’ MEASURE READ THE FIRST engrossed for a third reading, was read the third time, and passed, as follows: means a person, or any officer, employee, TIME—S. 2644 contractor, subcontractor, or agent of such S. 2258 person. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- understand there is a bill at the desk, ‘‘(D) FEDERAL GOVERNMENT.—The term resentatives of the United States of America in ‘Federal Government’ means— and I ask for its first reading. Congress assembled, ‘‘(i) a Federal regulatory or law enforce- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ment agency; or clerk will read the bill by title for the This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Criminal ‘‘(ii) any Member of Congress or committee first time. Antitrust Anti-Retaliation Act of 2019’’. of Congress.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:27 Oct 18, 2019 Jkt 099060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17OC6.057 S17OCPT1 snicholson on DSK30NT082PROD with SENATE October 17, 2019 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5905 ‘‘(E) PERSON.—The term ‘person’ has the CONGRATULATING THE WASH- Senate completes its business today, it same meaning as in subsection (a) of the INGTON MYSTICS ON WINNING adjourn until 3 p.m., Monday, October first section of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. THE 2019 WOMEN’S NATIONAL 21; further, that following the prayer 12(a)). BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION and pledge, the morning hour be ‘‘(4) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—The term CHAMPIONSHIP deemed expired, the Journal of pro- ‘violation’, with respect to the antitrust ceedings be approved to date, the time laws, shall not be construed to include a civil Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Sen- for the two leaders be reserved for their violation of any law that is not also a crimi- use later in the day, and morning busi- nal violation. ate proceed to the immediate consider- ation of S. Res. 364, submitted earlier ness be closed; further, that following ‘‘(b) ENFORCEMENT ACTION.— leader remarks, the Senate proceed to today. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—A covered individual who executive session and resume consider- alleges discharge or other discrimination by The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the resolution by ation of the Treaties Calendar No. 5, any employer in violation of subsection (a) Treaty Document No. 116–1; finally, title. may seek relief under subsection (c) by— that the cloture motions filed during ‘‘(A) filing a complaint with the Secretary The senior assistant legislative clerk read as follows: today’s session ripen at 5:30 p.m. on of Labor; or Monday. ‘‘(B) if the Secretary of Labor has not A resolution (S. Res. 364) congratulating The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without issued a final decision within 180 days of the the Washington Mystics on winning the 2019 objection, it is so ordered. filing of the complaint and there is no show- Women’s National Basketball Association ing that such delay is due to the bad faith of championship. f the claimant, bringing an action at law or There being no objection, the Senate ADJOURNMENT UNTIL MONDAY, equity for de novo review in the appropriate proceeded to consider the resolution. OCTOBER 21, 2019, AT 3 P.M. district court of the United States, which Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I shall have jurisdiction over such an action Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, if further ask that the resolution be there is no further business to come be- without regard to the amount in con- agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, troversy. fore the Senate, I ask unanimous con- and the motions to reconsider be made sent that it stand adjourned under the ‘‘(2) PROCEDURE.— and laid upon the table with no inter- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A complaint filed with previous order. vening action or debate. There being no objection, the Senate, the Secretary of Labor under paragraph The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (1)(A) shall be governed under the rules and at 5:10 p.m., adjourned until Monday, objection, it is so ordered. procedures set forth in section 42121(b) of October 21, 2019, at 3 p.m. The resolution (S. Res 364) was title 49, United States Code. agreed to. f ‘‘(B) EXCEPTION.—Notification made under section 42121(b)(1) of title 49, United States The preamble was agreed to. NOMINATIONS Code, shall be made to any individual named (The resolution, with its preamble, is Executive nominations received by in the complaint and to the employer. printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- the Senate: ‘‘(C) BURDENS OF PROOF.—An action mitted Resolutions.’’) NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD brought under paragraph (1)(B) shall be gov- f THOMAS B. CHAPMAN, OF MARYLAND, TO BE A MEM- erned by the legal burdens of proof set forth WORLD FOOD DAY BER OF THE NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION SAFETY in section 42121(b) of title 49, United States BOARD FOR A TERM EXPIRING DECEMBER 31, 2023, VICE THO DINH-ZARR, TERM EXPIRED. Code. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I DEPARTMENT OF STATE ‘‘(D) STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS.—A com- ask unanimous consent that the Sen- plaint under paragraph (1)(A) shall be filed ate proceed to the immediate consider- JOSEPH MANSO, OF NEW YORK, A CAREER MEMBER OF THE SENIOR FOREIGN SERVICE, CLASS OF MINISTER- with the Secretary of Labor not later than ation of S. Res. 365, submitted earlier COUNSELOR, FOR THE RANK OF AMBASSADOR DURING 180 days after the date on which the viola- HIS TENURE OF SERVICE AS UNITED STATES REP- today. RESENTATIVE TO THE ORGANIZATION FOR THE PROHIBI- tion occurs. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The TION OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS. ‘‘(E) CIVIL ACTIONS TO ENFORCE.—If a person clerk will report the resolution by UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL fails to comply with an order or preliminary title. DEVELOPMENT order issued by the Secretary of Labor pur- The senior assistant legislative clerk JENNY A. MCGEE, OF TEXAS, TO BE AN ASSISTANT AD- suant to the procedures set forth in section read as follows: MINISTRATOR OF THE UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR 42121(b) of title 49, United States Code, the INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT, VICE R. DAVID A resolution (S. Res. 365) designating Octo- HARDEN. Secretary of Labor or the person on whose ber 16, 2019, and October 16, 2020, as ‘‘World DEPARTMENT OF STATE behalf the order was issued may bring a civil Food Day.’’ action to enforce the order in the district DOROTHY SHEA, OF NORTH CAROLINA, A CAREER MEM- There being no objection, the Senate BER OF THE SENIOR FOREIGN SERVICE, CLASS OF MIN- court of the United States for the judicial ISTER-COUNSELOR, TO BE AMBASSADOR EXTRAOR- district in which the violation occurred. proceeded to consider the resolution. DINARY AND PLENIPOTENTIARY OF THE UNITED STATES Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I OF AMERICA TO THE LEBANESE REPUBLIC. ‘‘(c) REMEDIES.— know of no further debate on the meas- JOHN JOSEPH SULLIVAN, OF MARYLAND, TO BE AM- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—A covered individual pre- BASSADOR EXTRAORDINARY AND PLENIPOTENTIARY OF ure. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TO THE RUSSIAN FED- vailing in any action under subsection (b)(1) The PRESIDING OFFICER. If there ERATION. shall be entitled to all relief necessary to is no further debate, the question is on OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW make the covered individual whole. COMMISSION adoption of the resolution. ‘‘(2) COMPENSATORY DAMAGES.—Relief for The resolution (S. Res. 365) was CYNTHIA ATTWOOD, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE A MEMBER OF any action under paragraph (1) shall in- THE OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW COM- clude— agreed to. MISSION FOR A TERM EXPIRING APRIL 27, 2025. (RE- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I APPOINTMENT) ‘‘(A) reinstatement with the same senior- AMANDA WOOD LAIHOW, OF MAINE, TO BE A MEMBER ity status that the covered individual would ask unanimous consent that the pre- OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH REVIEW COM- MISSION FOR THE REMAINDER OF A TERM EXPIRING have had, but for the discrimination; amble be agreed to and that the mo- APRIL 27, 2023, VICE HEATHER L. MACDOUGALL, RE- ‘‘(B) the amount of back pay, with inter- tions to reconsider be made and laid SIGNED. est; and upon the table with no intervening ac- THE JUDICIARY ‘‘(C) compensation for any special damages tion or debate. FERNANDO L. AENLLE-ROCHA, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE sustained as a result of the discrimination The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA, VICE S. JAMES OTERO, RE- including litigation costs, expert witness objection, it is so ordered. TIRED. fees, and reasonable attorney’s fees. The preamble was agreed to. ADAM L. BRAVERMAN, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT ‘‘(d) RIGHTS RETAINED BY WHISTLE- (The resolution, with its preamble, is OF CALIFORNIA, VICE ROGER T. BENITEZ, RETIRED. BLOWERS.—Nothing in this section shall be printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- UNITED STATES PAROLE COMMISSION mitted Resolutions.’’) deemed to diminish the rights, privileges, or ALMO J. CARTER, OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, TO remedies of any covered individual under f BE A COMMISSIONER OF THE UNITED STATES PAROLE any Federal or State law, or under any col- COMMISSION FOR A TERM OF SIX YEARS, VICE CRAN- ORDERS FOR MONDAY, OCTOBER STON J. MITCHELL, TERM EXPIRED. lective bargaining agreement.’’. 21, 2019 THE JUDICIARY Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I BERNARD MAURICE JONES II, OF OKLAHOMA, TO BE UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE WESTERN ask unanimous consent that when the DISTRICT OF OKLAHOMA, VICE JOE L. HEATON, RETIRED.

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SANDY NUNES LEAL, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE UNITED TEXAS FOR THE TERM OF FOUR YEARS, VICE GARY STEPHEN A. VADEN, OF TENNESSEE, TO BE A JUDGE OF STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE CENTRAL DISTRICT BLANKINSHIP, TERM EXPIRED. THE UNITED STATES COURT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE, OF CALIFORNIA, VICE CHRISTINA A. SNYDER, RETIRED. VICE DELISSA A. RIDGWAY, RETIRED. R. SHIREEN MATTHEWS, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE A THE JUDICIARY UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE SOUTHERN RICK LLOYD RICHMOND, OF CALIFORNIA, TO BE UNITED GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA, VICE BARRY TED MOSKOWITZ, STATES DISTRICT JUDGE FOR THE CENTRAL DISTRICT RETIRED. OF CALIFORNIA, VICE MANUEL L. REAL, RETIRED. HUGH NATHANIAL HALPERN, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE DI- DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE STEPHEN SIDNEY SCHWARTZ, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE A RECTOR OF THE GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE, JUDGE OF THE UNITED STATES COURT OF FEDERAL VICE DAVITA VANCE-COOKS. THOMAS MICHAEL O’CONNOR, OF TEXAS, TO BE UNITED CLAIMS FOR A TERM OF FIFTEEN YEARS, VICE MARIAN STATES MARSHAL FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF BLANK HORN, TERM EXPIRED.

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