Transcripts For CSPAN U.S. House Of Representatives U.S. House Of Representatives 20180109

Continue beyond 11 50 a. M. Each member other than the majority and minority leaders and minority whip shall be limited to five minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from oregon, mr. Blumenauer, for five minutes. Mr. Blumenauer thank you, mr. Speaker. Friday, the Trump Administration declared war on state legalization of marijuana. As they come out on the wrong side of history and the american public. The Obama Administration recognized that the vast voterdriven movement to legalize marijuana at the state level was something that couldnt be stopped and, in fact, that the federal government shouldnt interfere. Their Justice Department issued guidance known as the cole amendment. That as long as these voterapproved, state legalization efforts were enforced, rigorously and thoughtfully, the federal government wouldnt interfere with what the voters wanted. Friday, sessions and the Trump Administration overruled that guidance and declared open war on the part of 93 u. S. Attorneys who are feel free to interfere with what local voters have decided. This is strongly opposed by the american public. Ver 60 in poll after poll shows that americans favor full legalization of marijuana when it deals with medical marijuana, that percentage is over 90 . We have seen state after state, including florida, a 71 yes vote in november of 2016. And if the question is, regardless of how you feel about marijuana, should the federal government interfere with what the voters have decided . Three out of four voters say, the federal government should keep their hands off it. Luckily, at least as far as medical marijuana is concerned, they are protected from interference by the Justice Department because of the amendment that i have authored with my friend, dana rohrabacher. Its in the continuing resolution. It needs to be in any longterm funding bill. In fact, we should embrace an amendment by our friend, Tom Mcclintock from california, hat would expend those protections to any state Legal Marijuana activity. The Justice Department is not just on the wrong side of history and the american public, they are missing a chance to cure the damage caused by selected and cruel enforcement of marijuana. Were still arresting tens of thousands, mostly young men of color, especially africanamerican men, for something the majority of americans now think should be legal. We miss a chance to win the war against opioid death and addiction. In states that have medical marijuana with, surprise, there are fewer pills prescribed. And the longer the states have had medical marijuana, the lower the overdose death. In california, which has had medical marijuana the longest, there is a third fewer opioid deaths. Were missing an opportunity to build on that. Were missing the opportunity to increase the hundreds of millions of dollars that is now going to the state tax coffers to deal with education and addiction and Law Enforcement through state legal efforts and away from the cartels. Indeed, if we clean up this mess, well have billions of dollars to devote for Public Purposes and further undermine the strength of drug cartels that use the black market to fuel their efforts. Its past time that Congress Steps up and fixes this mess. The good news is that this reckless action by the Trump Administration and Jeff Sessions will accelerate the state tween support what and local governments should do, rationalize our canny bass cannibas stop this policy and stop this infect prohibition. Soint chair recognizes the the gentlewoman from North Carolina, ms. Foxx, for five minutes. Ms. Foxx thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, on national Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, we salute and thank the brave men and women who make up our Law Enforcement community. Officers on the local, state, and federal level dedicate their efforts to keep us safe. They serve to protect the vulnerable and to defend us from harm. They patrol the neighborhood beat, walk our streets, and willingly put their lives on the line to do the work that makes our society safe. These men and women preserve our way of life by steadfastly safeguarding us from crime. To ensure the safety and protection of others, many have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifice must not be forgotten and their families should always remain in our prayers. Though todays Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, i believe members of our Law Enforcement community deserve our gratitude every day. Mr. Speaker, its a new year and i am thankful that my republican colleagues and i made good on our promise to bring about a new tax code. Due to the historic passage of he tax cuts and jobs act, most citizens, couples and companies will finally receive the tax relief they so desperately needed. The list of Companies Nationwide that have announced pay raises, bonuses, and 401k contributions is growing. Companies that werent able to invest more in their employees in the past have found renewed confidence in this nations economic future. My colleagues on the other side f the aisle proclaim that this bill was a tax scam that would only profit the rich. These baseless claims are the very epitome of fake news and nothing could be further from the truth. More than a million americans have received bonuses because of our efforts to reform the tax code. 900 billion is being distributed to hardworking american taxpayers by job creators as of today. Thanks to the tax cuts and jobs act, we have more than witnesse companies begin to reinvest in the future of employees. In fact, aflac announced it will increase 401k matching om 50 to 100 for the first 4 of employee contribution. On top of issuing onetime bonuses to employees. Oiler job creators are so inspired by the reforms we worked hard for and those who are working toward retirement will enjoy these benefits for years to come. While some in this chamber stated that tax reform would lead to armageddon, id like to point out that for many tax reform has brought about what reagan called, morning in america again. Proponents of the status quo and naysayers claim that the tax cuts and jobs act would cost taxpayers. Thats simply not the truth. Even modest increases in g. D. P. Growth caused by the tax cuts and jobs act will substantially contribute to a leveling off of the deficit. The Congressional Budget Office stated for every. 1 increase in g. D. P. , nearly 270 billion in revenue is added over 10 years. Most importantly, hardworking american taxpayers will now keep more of their hardearned cash. Estimates show that married couples taking advantage of the new standard deduction in the Fifth District of North Carolina may receive a tax cut to the tune of 1,834. Thats no small sum. Mr. Speaker, im pleased that House Republicans kept our promise to bring about more and bigger xes, 2017. Cks in and i look forward to this continued success in 2018. I yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair 2017. And i look forward recognizes t from connecticut, mr. Courtney, for five minutes. Mr. Courtney thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, last october President Trump loudly proclaimed that the Affordable Care act, obamacare, was quoteunquote, virtually dead. He said it was finished. It was gone. This was after the pummeling this law had been taking over the 2017 in the unsuccessful effort by the republicans to repeal the Affordable Care act. But again last october was the critical moment because enrollment was about to commence for 2018s policy year. And the Trump Administration announced that they were going to cut in half the time that people would have an opportunity to go out and learn about rates, to talk to enrollment help, and also to sign up for different plans. They also cut the Marketing Budget by 80 and eliminating funding for folks at the state level to actually provide facetoface assistance. So it all looked pretty grim october in terms of what that would result in in terms of enrollment for 2018. Well, as the famous resident oc from the state of connecticut, mark twain, once said, rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated. Yesterday the connecticut exchange, Access Health exchange, announced their enrollment numbers for 2018. Rather than going down, even though they were only able to enroll people in half the time as 2016, even though they had no budget in terms of trying to actually promote and advertise, their enrollment went up. It went up by 3 . In terms of the number of people that signed up for them blue cross plans, for conniticare plans and medicaid plans. It was done because of this amazing grassroots, organic effort by libraries, Community Health certainties, Human Service agencies, by hospitals you health centers, Human Service agencies, by hospitals that took on the task to get the word out that the Affordable Care act was still alive and people would have access to Affordable Health plans. Sure enough, it resulted in an increase in health plans. Interestingly, the young invincible, the young enrollees everybody predicted was going to abandon the program because of enforcement of the mandate wasing to going to be relaxed by the i. R. S. , actually had a very Strong Healthy number come interesting a state thats known for its insurance history, it was the insurance capital of the world, the fact of the matter is is getting those young enrollees, young members to sign up for these plans portends well for 2019 and beyond. This morning the hill newspaper reported that obamacare insurers, their financial prospects, are looking much better for 2019 because the system is stabilized. Again, theres still work that could be done. Theres a bill, h. R. 3748, a medicare buyin which would allow people 50 and up to voluntarily sign up for medicare. Again using subsidies they qualify for paying the full cost which would still be 40 less than the plans on exchanges throughout the country for people 50 and up. It would not affect the deficit. In fact, arguably it would strengthen the Medicare Trust fund because you would get a younger population into the medicare program. So there is work that we can do that is optional, voluntarily in terms of trying to provide more choices for individuals out there, but clearly what happened yesterday in connecticut and throughout the country in terms of enrollment figures that despite the active efforts by the Trump Administration to undercut and sabotage this law, in fact, shows that the law has a life of its own. That, in fact, people are voting with their feet in terms of still trying to get access to critical needs of every human being and every american which is access to health care. I want to particularly congratulate the Lieutenant Governor who spearheaded this effort in connecticut and who yesterday stated, this just shows how valuable the Affordable Care act is to thousands of residents in connecticut. The director of the exchange, who again was not distracted or demoralized by the comments coming out of the white house, still plunged forward and still persistently went out and made sure that people got the real information, the real facts, the real news so that they could take an opportunity to protect themselves and their families from the inevitable problems of sickness and accident that every american and every member of congress enjoys through their Health Benefits for every resident in the state of connecticut. It is time for to us stop the attack in terms of a program that has provided millions of americans coverage and opportunity to health care. We should Work Together with bills like h. R. 3748. Voluntary deficit neutral attempt to try and strengthen and provide cheaper alternatives for people 50 and up, and small businesses, thats the way forward. Not this persistent, nonstop, hyper political, hyper partisan attack on a bill thats made a huge difference to millions of americans. I yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from pennsylvania, mr. Thompson, for five minutes. Mr. Thompson thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, over the weekend the commonwealth of pennsylvania kicked off one of my favorite events, Pennsylvania Farm Show. For more than a century, farmers had gathered each january at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in harrisburg, pennsylvania. This week were having the 102nd Pennsylvania Farm Show. This weeklong event is the largest indoor agriculture expo significance in the nation showcasing over 6,000 animals and featuring merely 12,000 exhibits and nearly half a million visitors. Each year i host lastening session at the farm show and we coverage i hoe a listening session at the farm show and we coverage i host a listening session at the farm show and we coverage many things. As we embark on crafting the farm bill, the listening session was extremely important. I want to thank the following members who were able to join this years farm show. Agriculture Committee Ranking member colin peterson, congressman evans, congressman marino, congressman marshall and large conn smucker and also thanks to usda jend secretary from coming up undersecretary for coming up to join us and Pennsylvania Department of agriculture secretary. The Pennsylvania Farm Show truly does bring together so many different people in the ag community and its an event like none other. As vice chairman of the House Agriculture Committee i am proud of this fine event that takes place in the pennsylvania. It houses 24 acres under one roof spreading throughout 11 buildings including three arenas. There is no admission fee and its a great event for the entire family and numerous educational shows that are all free of charge. Pennsylvania farm show provides an atmosphere for everyone to walk through, observe and educate themselves about different areas of agriculture. The commonwealths largest industry, which brings in nearly 6. 9 billion annually in agricultural cash receipts. Almost half a million jobs are tied to the industry which positively impacts all pennsylvanians. Undoubtedly one of the most popular attractions at the Pennsylvania Farm Show is the food court located in the expo hall of the complex. The food court offers a variety of pennsylvania products, p. A. Preferred products and generates income to support the nonprofit pennsylvania commodity organization. The first Pennsylvania Farm Show was a threeday exhibit. Today the event is a weeklong, eightday celebration of how the agriculture industry touches our everyday lives. Proudly this event draws visitors from across the country to highlight everything our state has to offer when it comes to ag. Numerous students participate in the event as well as clubs and f. A. A. Organizations. The Pennsylvania Farm Show truly showcases our farmers and landowners and i was thrilled to take part in the best agriculture expo in the country. Thank you, mr. Speaker. I yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from california, mr. Costa, for five minutes. Mr. Costa i ask unanimous consent to address the house for one minute address the house for five ominutes and to revise and extend my remarks. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Costa mr. Speaker, i rise today to talk about the National Debt and our shared future. Our country has been on an unsustainable fiscal path regardless which party has been in power and we all know this. As a result our National Debt is the largest its ever been. As of this week the National Debt is in excess of 20 trillion. Thats with a t. This works out to be an average man, woman or every and child in the United States. Its outrageous, its completely unacceptable amount of debt, and we have it because of irresponsible governing and a lack of political courage here in our nations capital. Sadly, this congress has chosen to continue this irresponsible and unsustainable fiscal course. The tax cut legislation that our republicans rammed through the Congress Last month will billion to our deficit over 10 years estimated and over 2 trillion to our National Debt. We are going in the wrong direction. This is something i learned about this tax legislation last month and that it seems that deficits matter. Under democratic administrations. But under republican administrations, deficits dont matter at all. So when it comes to lifting our debt ceiling later this year, i would expect or hope to see every republican who voted for the tax bill that adds 2. 2 trillion to our deficit or debt to vote to increase the debt ceiling. Seeing as deficits no longer matter. Lets think about this 2. 2 trillion tax bill that will add to our debt. Thats 2. 2 trillion in additional moneys that our children will have to pay for unless we do something. We can be fiscally responsible, and we must be fiscally responsible. But to act to change this course we must stop digging this hole bigger. I had a farmer friend who once told me, jim, he says, i got a theory about holes. And that is once you find yourself in one, just stop digging. Sometimes you think you dig harder and faster youre going to get out of it. Just stop. This will be difficult, especially considering the opportunity we missed to put the nation back on a fiscally responsible path with the tax reform effort last year. Yet, there are important steps that we can take and congress should to balance our budget. And this is, for example, from getting worse like the amendment proposed by representative Stephanie Murphy from florida, a balanced budget amendment. We should move to implement targeted reforms on government spending, both mandatory and Discretionary Spending in ways to contribute the Economic Growth and invest in our future. Its tough work. It requires political courage and the willingness to reach across the aisle, for democrats and republicans to join hands and jump in essence on these tough decisions. Last time we had such an opportunity to address the challenge was in march of 2012 when congressman jim cooper of tennessee presented a budget resolution similar to the recommendations under simpsonbowles. That plan would have reduced the deficit over 4 trillion over a 10year period. Sadly the political courage was in short supply then on that day as it is now. There were 38 of us that were willing to support the plan. I was attacked by political groups on the left and the right for taking such a vote, but that vote was the right thing to do and i was proud to take it. And as congress has and congress has the chance to do the right thing now. Congress must come together. We need democrats and republicans to put our nations fiscal house back in order for the sake of all americans. Blue dog coalition, which i am a cochair, has a long history of standing fortiescal responsibility even when it for fiscal responsibility even when it was hard. And bridging the divide between republicans and democrats and this administration is what we must do. So as we are debating today how to put together the votes for the concurrent resolution to fund our nations budget for the rest of this year, lets think about this. Lets Work Together. What a novel concept. As i stand here today as a blue dog, as a proud representative of californias 16th Congressional District and as a concerned american ready to reach across the aisle to create the bipartisan, longterm policy solutions that will help us tackle our National Debt and our National Deficit and that will help us put us back on a fiscally sustainable path. I invite my colleagues and my fellow americans to join me. This is what Good Governance is really all about. This is what responsible leadership is where its necessary. Its what americans want and need and its what we should be doing. I yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from kansas, mr. Marshall, for five minutes. Mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i rise today to address a very troubling issue but also to tell the story of one of my High School Classmates thats trying to make a difference. 22 veterans in the United States take their own lives every day. At this pace veterans are committing suicide 19 higher than the general adult population. We in congress will not turn a blind eye to these Service Members in need of our support. This issue is a top clinical priority for the department of Veterans Affairs as well as for this congress. In the unanimous vote the house passed legislation that works with the v. A. To examine the effectiveness of the Veterans Crisis line. I am also a proud cosponsor of the oath of exit act written by close friend and colleague, brian mast from florida. They will take a pledge not to harm themselves. These actions alone are not enough and more must be done to protect our Service Members. To help our veterans with this Mental Health battle, were turning to our fourlegged friends. Therapy dogs have a proven success record helping our veterans tackle the physical and mental challenges they face in the transition back to vifflian life. As i stand before the house today, i want to bring awareness to one organization i am especially proud of. K9 for heroes. Thats the letter k, the number nine, the number four heroes. K94 heroes. K9 4 heroes. I am honored to say that this organization was founded in my home state, in my hometown from one of my High School Classmates, big daddy john lipskin. He connected with one of our other classmates who specializes in Service Dog Training for veterans in 2015 john and his daughter stablished k9 4 heroes and found funds to donate for costs. We owe it to those who protected us abroad the assurance of protection here at homes. Like john and continued action on the federal level, we will e better able to protect veterans. We must make efforts towards veterans Suicide Prevention and with that, mr. Speaker, i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back. The chair recognizes the gentleman from florida, mr. Soto, for five minutes. Mr. To thank you, speaker. I rise to recognize the life of an orlando favorite son, a hero that we lost this past weekend, astronaut john young, who was inspirational and legendary to our community and who grew up in college park in orlando, florida, and streets named after him span our district as well as congresswoman murphy and demings districts in Central Florida. He was described by our local paper as a country boy who grew up in orlando, florida, back when it was mostly farmland. Even got in trouble for smuggling a corned beef sandwich into space on gemini 3. He was mostly known for his coolheadedness and calm demeanor as he took numerous trips into space with nasa. Some of the flags and Mission Patches he flew into space are on display in Orlando Science Center and in Central Florida were proud to have the parkway bear his name. He died on january 5, this past friday, in his home in houston. Mr. Young was nasas longest serving astronaut. He was the first person to orbit the moon by himself and the ninth person to walk on the moon as well. He was the first person to travel to space six times during nasas gemini, apollo, Lunar Missions and into the Space Shuttle programs as well. Young commanded the first Space Shuttle flight mission, an iconic view that so many central floridians and so Many Americans have seen over the years during that program, and he was awarded the prestigious congressional space medal of honor in 1981. He represents the very best of the orlando area. Rest in peace, astronaut john young, and with that i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentlewoman from florida, ms. Roslehtinen, for five minutes. Ms. Roslehtinen thank you so much, mr. Speaker. And i rise today in recognition turn bel lugo, who will 112 years young on january 11. Isabel is one of only a handful in the nation who has lived through some of the brightest times and darkest chapters in our history. Born in 1906 in colombia, isabel was one of 13 brothers and sisters. At age 41, isabel married and had two sons, omar and danilo lugo. Because of the increasing violence in her home country and the kidnapping of her husband, isabel began a new life with her children in the United States in 1970 and for 26 years she resided in my district, the beautiful miami beach. Throughout her long and distinguished life, isabel has never ceased placing the needs of others before her own. Isabel has served as a strong advocate for many important issues and organizations such as the Jewish Community center of miami beach and has continued to serve as a voice to the voiceless to this day. Mr. Speaker, i ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this historic birthday with isabel, who is the oldest living person in the state of florida. Mr. Speaker, i could like to congratulate the head coach of the Miami Hurricanes Football Team on being named the walter camp 2017 coach of the year and the a. C. C. Coach of the year. In only two seasons at the helm, coach rick has created a winning environment at my alma mater, the university of miami. This season, the hurricanes won their first a. C. C. Coastal division tightal, and ended a sevenyear losing streak against rival Florida State utah of university. University. His success on the field last year also got him two other accolades, the first miami coach to be named the a. C. C. Coach of the year and only the second u. M. Coach to receive the walter camp award. Hes truly a phenomenal leader and im confident he will continue to guide u. M. s football programs to greater victories in the years to come. On again congratulations your success this past season and go canes. I would like to cop grat late jim morris on celebrating his as head final season coach congratulate jim morris on celebrating his 25th and final season as head coach of the miami baseball team. Hes as head coach congratulate won over games. The fifth most in the history of the sport. During his tenure, the university of miami, my alma mater, qualified for the College World series more times than any other Baseball Program throughout the country, and he led the team to two National Championships. Coach morris has also been named National Coach of the year three times. Coach morris outstanding leadership for the past 25 years as left a positive and Lasting Impact on the university of miami. I am confident that this historic legacy will continue to inspire , will continue to shape hurricane baseball in the years to come. Once again, congratulations to coach morris on a long and distinguished career. Go, canes. Thank you, mr. Speaker. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from florida the gentlewoman from florida, mrs. Murphy, for five minutes. Mrs. Murphy thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise to honor the Football Team of the university of Central Florida, located in my Congressional District. The knights finished the season ranked sixth in the nation by the associated press. They had a perfect 130 record, the only team in the top level of College Football to go unfeeted. U. C. F. Won the american athletic conference ampionship with an exhilarating and excruciating Double Overtime victory against a talented team from the university of memphis. And the knights shook up the world of College Football in the peach bowl on new years day when they beat auburn university, one of the most storied football programs in the country. Hi a personal stake in the outcome of the peach bowl having made a friendly bet on the game with congressman mike rogers, whose alabama district is home to auburn. Im excited to collect my winnings from congressman rogers later today, a bucket of delicious florida oranges that he will deliver to me while carrying a u. C. F. Helmet. Thank the football gods the u. C. F. Did not lose. Compelled to en blanket a tree on the Capitol Grounds with toilet paper pursuant to a time honored and frankly bewildering tradition. Im glad the knights saved the Capitol Police from having to arrest a member of congress for vandalism. Even though u. C. F. Compelled to given the opportunity to play for the National Championship, the players and coaches of this team are National Champions in my book. The knights didnt just win games, they also won our hearts. They didnt just beat opponents, they also beat the odds. Sports, in particular team sports, have a unique power to captivate, unify, and to inspire. Under the strong and steady leadership of the head coach, the knights captivated the schools students and alumni, filling them with pride. They united our Central Florida community from orlando to apopka to ultimate springs, and they inspired countless people, young and old alike, both football experts and novices. Importantly, u. C. F. , the Football Team, brought National Attention to u. C. F. The university. Which has quietly become one of floridas and our nations academic gems. To be sure, the knights squad was filled with talented players. Sen of whom won first team all conference honors. Including rifle armed quarterback, mckenzie milton, fleet footed running back, adrian killen, and onehanded efensive warrior griffin who personifies courage and character. Many members of the team justifiably played with a chip on their shoulder, having been overlooked by more established College Football programs coming out of high school. They had personifies courage and character. Many members of the to earn res through their action. Ultimately what the knights what made the knights so special and so successful was not what they accomplished as individuals, but rather t. W. A. They achieved together as a rather what they achieved together as a team. The bond they shared made them teammates in the truest sense of the word. The teams motto, the name of the u. C. F. Fight song, is charge on. It is a message whose power extends beyond the football field and applies to life itself. When you confront challenges, charge on. When others doubt your abilities, charge on. And when you think you cant work any harder, charge on. As a proud fan, i thank the u. C. F. Football team for showing us all what it means to charge on. Thank you, mr. Speaker. I yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from minnesota, mr. Emmer, for five minutes. Mr. Emmer mr. Speaker, i rise today to recognize seven students from my district who have received the 2017 National Merit scholarships. The criteria required to receive a National Merit scholarship is quite difficult. In fact, of the 15,000 finalists selected, only half will actually receive scholarships. The recipients of this prestigious scholarship are honor, benjamin of shore view, of blane, rachel cho of blane, Piper Christensen of spring lake park, and kenneth of coin rapids. Each one of these students have big plans for furet which include careers in medicine, science, and engineering. All fields critically important to the success of our nation. I congratulate each of these students on receiving this kohl scholarship. We look forward to watching you achieve Great Success in your respective careers. Good work and good luck. Mr. Speaker, i rise today to remember the life of one of minnesotas heroes. On tuesday, december 19, 2017, of the jeffrey volmer Fire Department died in the line of duty. A loving father and husband, jeff is survived by his wife, emily, and their two daughters. He was a 12year veteran of the all volunteer Fire Department in mayor, minnesota. Friends and colleagues knew him as a selfless and kind leader who was willing to help others. The fire chief described jeff as the kind of guy you could count on when it mattered most. Jeff was an avid musky fisherman who enjoyed hunting and photography. Jeff loved to work with wood. He built signs, tables, and even a bed set for his daughter. We pray for peace and comfort for his colleagues, friends, and family. E will be missed by so many. Mr. Speaker, i rise today to recognize an Outstanding Service member from my district, jake hen rickson. Centennial graduate of lionel lakes, minnesota, jake c lionel lakes, minnesota, jake always knew he wanted to serve in the mill teamplet as a Third Generation member of the u. S. Army, his service as a specialist representing the 173rd Airborne Infantry Brigade Combat Team continues a family legacy of service to our nation. In just under two years in the service, jake won the u. S. Army europe soldier of the year award. Each company of the army made up of about 100 people selects a soldier to compete in the best warrior competition. Jake was chosen as his companys representative. The competition tests soldiers abilities in a variety of areas including a physical test, written test, marksmanship, land navigation, chemical defense, and medical tasks. He excelled in all which is why he earned the title of u. S. Army europe soldier of the year, affirming his commitment to excellence. Our community is very proud of jake and his accomplishments. We admire his dedication and his commitment to serve. Congratulations, jake. Mr. Speaker, i rise today to commemorate national Law Enforcement Appreciation Day to remember the men and women in blue who protect and serve our great nation. The great state of minnesota is home to many phenomenal law officers. Men and women who put their lives on the line each and every day to ensure the safety and security of our communities. These are the officers. Men heroes and some tragically have lost their lives in the line of true duty. In 2016, Deputy Sandburg was shot and killed in the line of duty in st. Cloud, minnesota. While his death was both senseless and tragic, we remember the courageous way he chose to live and serve our local community. In honor of brave officers like Deputy Sandburg, today and every day let us remember and honor the Selfless Service of our men and Selfless Service of our men and women in blue. I yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman kennedy, ota, mr. For five minutes. Mr. Kennedy thank you, mr. Speaker. This morning a High School Senior sat attentively in a chicago classroom while this country held her college dreams hostage. This morning, a kennedy, for five minutes. Mr. Kennedy medical student started her rotation as an aspiring thoracic surgeon in cambridge, while this country took her talent for granted. This morning an enlisted soldier living in queens eagerly awaited his basic training assignment. While his country shrugged their shoulders at his service. This morning, 00,000 young men and women woke up 800,000 young men and women woke up, offered a brave smile to their loved ones, and sought to better the only home they have ever known. You can call them dreamers. You can call them immigrants. You can call them american. You can call them husbands, wives, sons, daughters, eighbors, doctors, students, service men and women. You can call them human beings. A place e to live in they call whom. Whose lives shouldnt be horse traded for big walls and petty tweets and bad campaign ads. Who have offered us their a pla they talent, their tirelessness, their ingenuity, empathy, their loyalty, and their patriotism. Who have earned their governments protection in return. Gave those 800,000 human beings our word. And if those of us here in this room with the incellible privilege of serving in these halls incredible privilege of serving in these halls, bestowed with the title of representative, if were not willing to defend the american word and make sure it still means something, then who will . Ield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes gentleman from michigan, mr. Mitchell, for five minutes. Mr. Mitchell thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today is national Law Enforcement Appreciation Day so i rise to honor our men and women in blue. My oldest son is a local police officer. So i am acutely aware of the risks and sacrifices made by the men and women in Law Enforcement. They assume risks every day, risks we sometimes take for granted, in order to keep our community safe. I think a Law Enforcement officer isnt a job. Its calling. Its a service to the community. Despite the very real risks they respond to the call always. Knowing they may not go home. Just last week a deputy in the community my son serves in was struck by a car during a Traffic Accident. Yes, he was responding to Traffic Accident and hit by a car. Broke his back, broke his deck, crushed his face. The last update i received hes in critical condition. And all he was doing was trying to protect people at a Traffic Accident. We cant take that for granted. Today we need to pause and simply offer a thank you to Law Enforcement officers across the country and to their families. And we offer a prayer to those who have reached the end of watch. Join me today in thanking the Police Officers across this nation, take a moment to simply say thank you. Mr. Speaker, i rise to recognize the bicentennial year mccolmm county, michigan. It was formally organized as the third county in the territory of michigan. It was designated nearly 20 years before michigan gained statehood. It was named in honor of a general, a decorated veteran of the war of 1812. The rich history of service to the nation doesnt stop there. In july, 1917, almost 100 years everyone in nding, the county and National Guard knows the importance of the air National Guard to our National Security. Its founding just 13 years after the Wright Brothers first flight as a two trestment to the commitment to National Security and the nation that has defined them for 200 years. In addition to be the auto capital of the world, they led the manufacturing that resulted in the democracy and americas victory in world war ii. Our Defense Industry helped the allies win world war ii and has the resources to main our strength and security in the world. Im proud to represent them in washington, d. C. , and eagletory celebrate the 200th anniversary of this great connie. Thank you, i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from texas, mr. Green, for five minutes. Mr. Green thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, i rise to pay honor and tribute to the honorable dr. Martin luther king, and, mr. Speaker, i am so proud and honored to have the preeminent privilege of doing so here in the well of the congress. Mr. Speaker, dr. King was born at a time, to quote dr. Benjamin hooks, when he could buy a hat and couldnt try it on. Born at a time when he could only sit in the balcony of a movie, and that was in some movies. There were others he wasnt allowed in at all. Born at a time when he had to sit in the back of the bus or might be barred from riding the bus totally. Born at a time when he would have to wait in line and others of a different hue could always stand in front of him. Born at a time when discrimination, when segregation was apparent and lawful. Dr. King was born at a time when there were few who were willing to challenge the hate and the bigotry that was emanating from this country in all of its arenas for the most part. But dr. King was a person who understood that that which you will tolerate you will not change. Dr. King refused to tolerate bigotry and hatred. He refused to tolerate it, and in fact, that is what separated him from a good many other people for the most part. Dr. King, if i may recall, went to birmingham, alabama, in 1963, and when he went there to do something about the condition, about the discrimination, about the hate and the bigotry, when he went there to do something about it there were people who were tolerating hatred and bigotry. There were people there who were very prominent members of the clerky, eight of them, who de clergy, eight of them, who decided they would write dr. King a letter and explain to him that what he was doing was unwise and untimely. They explained to him that law and order should prevail. They commended the constabulary for protecting the city. These were persons who were considered honorable people, but they were people who were willing to tolerate hatred and bigotry. They in fact insisted that we should let the courts handle this. Lets work it through peaceful means by which we he might sit and negotiate with those who would perpetrate hatred and bigotry. Dr. King, on the other hand, sought to use nonviolent protests as the methodology by which change might take place, the thing he could not tolerate, he was willing to protest to bring about change. There were other great orators at the time. Dr. King was indeed a great orator. One of the greatest. There were other great orators. There were others who were knowledgeable, had ph. D. s, who was well versed what was happening and could have spoken about it and many did speak up but many of them were willing to tolerate it. Dr. King was not, and that separated him from a good many people who were orators, who were learned, who understood invidious discrimination. In fact, they were opposed to it. But they tolerated it in quiet ways. So when dr. King went to birmingham, these eight clergy persons having written him a letter found himself incarcerated in a birmingham jail, he decided to respond to them. The letter from the birmingham jail is a response to eight clergy members, notable clergy members in birmingham. So he decided to respond to their letter. And in responding to their letter he gives us this masterpiece that really addresses what invidious discrimination is all about and why you cant consider yourself an outside agitator if you are an american, why you have to do this, not only for yourself, but for the generations to come. But reading dr. Kings letter, as masterful as it is, is not enough. So today in honor of his birthday, january 15, im asking people to read the letter that dr. King was responding to. If you read that letter, you will understand why you cannot tolerate hate. I yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from florida, mr. Curbelo, for five minutes. Mr. Curbelo mr. Speaker, last week the department of interior announced a newly proposed plan to expand offshore drilling off our countrys coasts, including floridas. Shortly after making the announcement, secretary zinke guaranteed states will have a voice in this process. So ive come to the floor as the elected representative of the florida keys and southern miamidade, a district that includes ecological treasures and economic drivers like the Florida Keys National marine sanctuary, frlglades National Park and biscayne National Park, to be that voice. Everglades National Park and biscayne National Park, to be that voice. We have made it clear over and over again how we feel about offshore drilling near florida. We dont want it. We dont want to put our beautiful beaches and environmental treasures at risk. We dont want to risk the livelihoods of millions of hardworking american men, women, and families when there is no need. Florida simply has too much to lose. Mr. Speaker, along with many of my colleagues in this chamber, both of floridas senators, marco rubio and bill nelson, and our governor, rick scott, will make sure floridas voice is heard loud and clear on this issue. We dont want drilling near floridas shores. We dont need drilling near floridas shores, and we will not allow this or any administration to put our conomy or our environment at risk. Mr. Speaker, i rise today to honor dale adamson, a dedicated teacher of mathematics at howard dean Mcmillan School in my district and a recent recipient of the prestigious milkin educator award. Central to his selection was his classroom report with rapport with students, explaining concepts through areas. Ld not lecturing abstract theories at the chalkboard, he gave world renowned knowledge for exciting his students with real World Problems like how algentleman bra was used bies n a algebra was used by nasa. Or one might observe launching objects off the schools roof. The Foundation Model states that the future belongs to the teachers. As a proud father of two daughters in this school system, i am glad to have him teachers like him in the community. They are the key to unlocking the next generations potential. Mr. Speaker, i rise today to remind my colleagues how critical it is that republicans and democrats work in good faith to find a compromise on immigration policy in the coming days. Congress first began trying to pass legislation for the benefit of young immigrants who are brought to our country as children through no fault of our own some 17 years ago. All attempts have failed, but this time failure is not an option. 800,000 dreamers who came forward and registered with the government in recent years would be at risk. These are young people who are working, paying taxes, getting educated, and contributing to our country. They speak english. Some of them want to serve in our military and defend our freedoms. They sat in the clat rooms and grew up with classrooms and grew up with our own children. Many have no memories of their country of origin. Mr. Speaker, these are americas children. Thats why we all need to Work Together in the coming days and find a compromise that can secure the future for these young immigrants and at the same time make our country safer and more prosperous by securing our borders and reforming our immigration laws. Americans have been expecting results from congress on immigration policy for years. Enough is enough. The time for action is now. Thank you and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentlewoman from new york, ms. Stefanik, for five minutes. Ms. Stefanik mr. Speaker, i wanted to take a moment today to highlight the real results we have achieved on behalf of North Country families in this congress. In 2017 we worked on many important initiatives to grow the North Country economy, support our veterans and military families, strengthen our local Health Care System and improve education. In fact, last year alone, the house of representatives passed more than 470 bills and resolutions. 90 of which are bipartisan. In congress i focused on important legislation to grow our local economy. I recently introdoused two bills that will increase access to introduced two bills that will help increase access to Rural Broadband and brings production into the 21st century. I helped the house pass legislation to strengthen career and tech flickal education programs. This bipartisan bill updates federal career and Technical Education policies to help more students gain the skills they need to compete for indemand jobs. I also introduced Bipartisan Legislation to boost North Country tourism by extending the Time Canadian visitors can spend each year in the United States. Weve also made significant strides when it comes to education. For the past three years, ive worked to ensure that our students have the Educational Opportunities to achieve their limitless potential. My first year in congress i expanded pell grant process. I was pleased to see my initiative for year round pell signed into law this past may, meaning students and families in our district now have another important tool to achieve their Higher Education dreams. As a proud representative of fort drum and the navy nuclear site, my district is home to thousands of military families that make incredible sacrifices serving our nation. In 2017, i was pleased to have a bill i authored pass the house to help military spouses. This legislation eliminates a loophole that requires military spouses to establish residency every time their Service Member receives a new assignment. I also introduced two bills to help military spouses that were signed into law in december. The first is the lift the reloigscation burden for military spouses relocation burden for military spouses act. This bill provides reimbursement for licensing fees of up to 500 for each permanent change of station. And the second is the military residency choice act, which allows spouses the choice to establish the same state of residency as their Service Member spouse for voting and tax purposes. New yorks 21st district is the proud home of more veterans than any other district in new york state, and my District Office its have been hard at work on their behalf, office have been hard at work on their behalf. Congress also passed an extension of the g. I. Bill, education benefits that lifts the expiration on when they can be used, giving veterans more flexibility to attend Higher Education institutions. And last summer, Congress Passed the v. A. Accountability and whistleblower protection act, which prump signed into law President Trump signed into law. This makes it easier to terminate failing v. A. Employees and provide stronger protections to whistleblowers who raise the alarms over wait lists and medical malpractice. No veteran deserves to be denied care. Health care is another issue that i hear frequently when i speak with families and businesses across my district. Especially ensuring our Rural Communities have the access that they need. In september, i introduced the chime act, a bipartisan bill to extend Community Health Center Funding for five years. Federally qualified Community Health centers like hudson headwaters, North Country Family Health and the Community Health center of the North Country, provide over 95,000 people in my community with preventative services. I am pleased this bill has over 200 cosponsors and this overwhelming bipartisan support for the chime act was instrumental in the house passing legislation to extend Community Health Center Funding for two years. I voted to pass a fiveyear reauthorization in the house in november. While we work to have longterm solutions to these programs, i was pleased to pass a critical extension for them in december. Mr. Speaker, last year was a busy year working hard to grow our North Country economy, increase access to education, and serve our brave veterans and much more. Im honored every day to serve new yorks 21st district in congress and look forward to continuing my work, to work my hardest in 201. Thank you, i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from pennsylvania, mr. Fitzpatrick, for five minutes. Mr. Fitzpatrick mr. Speaker, i rise today to share the story of phillip guttis. Hes from new hope, pennsylvania. And at the age of 56 hes been diagnosed with early onset alzheimers disease. Early onset alzheimers currently affects hundreds of thousands of americans who are under the age of 65. Diagnoses from these debilitating neurological disease in its early stages can be arwith us and frustrating. As many of the symptoms resemble less serious issues like stress. He recently visited my District Office to discuss living with this disease. He detailed the pain, stress, and the confusion that he felt when first diagnosed. He described how simple tasks can become challenging when dealing with memory loss. His message was not to complain about his ailment. It was to be a voice for other individuals who live with alzheimers. Those who are unable to have their voices be heard. Alzheimers is a serious neurological disease. Though there is no cure, treatment, or symptoms can help slow the progressive effects of dementia. I stand in support of him and all those living with alzheimers. Mr. Speaker, the Doylestown Health foundation is a Health Care Network thats provided Critical Care to the Bucks County Community for over 90 years. In recognition of its continued work, they recently received 10 million in gifts. The largest amount in their history. The pair of 5 million donations were given by two families with close ties to the doyles town health foundation. Richard and angela clark have had four againations generations of family cared for there. And the c. E. O. Of Johnson Johnson and his wife have served on the board board of directors respectively. Supporting institutions in our community through charitable donations are crucial to community prosperity. The generous gifts of the clark and gorsky families are earmarked for vital projects like a new heart and vascular certainty. With contributions like these, the Doylestown Health foundation will be able to continue providing optimal care to those in our Bucks County Community. Mr. Speaker, i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the chair will receive a message. The secretary mr. Speaker, a message from the set. The messenger 00 mr. Speaker. The speaker pro tempore madam secretary. The secretary i am directed by the senate to inform the house that the senate has agreed to h. R. 3759, an act to provide for the establishment and maintenance of a family care giving strategy, and for other purposes. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from colorado, mr. Buck, for ive minutes. Mr. Buck thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise today to recognize the heroism and bravery of Douglas County sheriff Deputy Zachary parish. I attended his funeral this past friday and heard what a great husband, father, son, and Law Enforcement officer he was. A father of two young daughters, a husband to his wife, gracie, a son to his loving parents, a colleague to many of the Douglas County sheriffs office. Zachary lost his life 10 days ago responding to a domestic disturbance call in highlands ranch, colorado. Sergeant david buyer spoke of his bravery that day saying he didnt flinch e. Didnt back down, he didnt hesitate. He also did everything in his power according to the sheriff to talk down the gunman. Sadly we cant always win the battles against evil. On that day zachary lost. But a battle lost but a lost battle is not a battle lost. Zachary knew he fought in a war to defend the innocent, to stand up for good. It is an honor to speak about a hero. We have the chance to honor one of those people who devoted their life to others. People like zachary remind us that our world is not lost. That evil will not win the day. That we can give more to this world than we take from it. Zachary is a hero for the people of Douglas County, colorado. For his fellow sheriffs deputies, and the state of colorado. I pray for his family, friends, and fellow deputies as they charge ahead in life without their loved one. I pray that god would give them peace in this time. God would be clorfide, even in the midst of this horrible trial glorified, even in the midst of this horrible trial. And i pray for the other heroes wounded that day as well. Michael doyle, taylor davis, jeff pelly, and thomas odonnell. We can never repay their sacrifice force our community. We can only commit ourselves to never forget the cost they willingly paid for us. I yield the remainder of my time. Those are the things i would offer. The distinguished gentlewoman from california, is recognized for five minutes. Thank you, mr. Chairman. I want to thank all the witnesses for being here y