Congressional Record, House, Thursday, May 28, 2020 (Vol. 166, No. 100)
- Date
- 2020-05-28
Summary
The daily Congressional Record for the House of Representatives, Vol. 166, No. 100, 116th Congress, Second Session, dated Thursday, May 28, 2020. The House met at 9 a.m. and was called to order by the Speaker pro tempore, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, followed by the Chaplain's prayer, approval of the Journal and the Pledge of Allegiance. A series of 1-minute speeches follows, including remarks on stimulus checks and IRS delays, personal protective equipment, livestock producers affected by packing plant closures, and a remembrance of former Member Sam Johnson. The record also prints text on veterans' disability compensation rates and closes with Government Publishing Office information on public access to the Congressional Record.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
Cite this document
“Congressional Record, House, Thursday, May 28, 2020 (Vol. 166, No. 100).”
Dated 2020-05-28. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/2020-05-28-called-to-order-by-the-speaker-pro-tem/
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Congressional Record
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116 th CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION
United States
of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE
Vol. 166 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2020 No. 100
House of Representatives
The House met at 9 a.m. and was Amen. his breath, or George Floyd, killed
called to order by the Speaker pro tem- f while under the knee of an officer ut-
pore (Mr. CARSON of Indiana). tering those same words, ‘‘I can’t
THE JOURNAL breathe’’?
f
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Where is the pursuit of happiness for
DESIGNATION OF THE SPEAKER ant to section 4(a) of House Resolution Christian Cooper, who couldn’t go bird
PRO TEMPORE 967, the Journal of the last day’s pro- watching without having the cops
The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- ceedings is approved. called on him?
fore the House the following commu- f Where is the equality in a nation
nication from the Speaker: where we proclaim that Black lives
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE matter, yet we see our own neighbors’
WASHINGTON, DC,
May 28, 2020. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the humanity stolen and still fail to pro-
I hereby appoint the Honorable ANDRÉ gentleman from California (Mr. vide justice?
CARSON to act as Speaker pro tempore on LAMALFA) come forward and lead the 250 years after our Nation wrote
this day. House in the Pledge of Allegiance. those words, those rights are not
NANCY PELOSI, Mr. LAMALFA led the Pledge of Alle- unalienable. If you are Black in Amer-
Speaker of the House of Representatives. ica today, they do not exist.
giance as follows:
f I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the All of us, any of us—with power and
United States of America, and to the Repub- privilege—are accountable. We owe
PRAYER
lic for which it stands, one nation under God, them better.
The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. f
J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: f
God of the universe, thank You for INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE
giving us another day. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER NEEDS TO GET IT TOGETHER
Throughout the country, people PRO TEMPORE (Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota
mourn those whom they have lost; peo- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The asked and was given permission to ad-
ple lament the loss of businesses, of Chair will entertain up to five requests dress the House for 1 minute and to re-
normalcy. for 1-minute speeches on each side of vise and extend his remarks.)
100,000 have now died of COVID–19. the aisle. Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr.
They were Democrats and Republicans. f Speaker, last I knew, 20 million Amer-
They lived in urban areas, and now, ican had not received their stimulus
more and more, in rural areas. They BLACK LIVES MATTER checks.
were the descendants of men and (Mr. KENNEDY asked and was given In the 3 months since the CARES
women who were colonists, or Found- permission to address the House for 1 Act, I have been patient; South Dako-
ing Fathers, and immigrants who had minute and to revise and extend his re- tans have been patient as they wait for
recently become citizens. They were marks.) help some of them truly need.
disproportionately people of color, but Mr. KENNEDY. ‘‘We hold these Mr. Speaker, my patience has run
not only of color, and of every religion truths to be self-evident, that all men low, especially since Americans are
and culture in this Nation. are created equal, that they are en- also waiting months for their tax re-
When, O Lord, will we come to under- dowed by their creator with certain turns.
stand that we are all in this together, unalienable rights, that among these Ben, from Marshall County, filed his
that if we do not stand together, we are life, liberty, and the pursuit of hap- in February. He is $400 short on rent.
risk falling together? Heal the divi- piness.’’ He has been counting on his tax return.
sions within our body politic, within Tell me, where was the right to life It is his money. But the IRS has not re-
this Chamber, so that Your healing for Breonna Taylor, who was killed in turned his phone calls, and they have
power, through our actions and good- her own bed by police and her boy- not returned the phone calls or emails
will, can be manifest in our United friend arrested for trying to protect of congressional offices.
States. her? Workers in hospitals and in factories
May everything done this day, and in Where is the liberty for Ahmaud and in packing plants and in banks are
the days and weeks to come, be for Arbery, killed for going for a jog, or working overtime to meet the needs of
Your greater honor and glory. Eric Garner, killed while begging for this Nation. I do not see that same
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b This symbol represents the time of day during the House proceedings, e.g., b 1407 is 2:07 p.m.
Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.
H2325
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H2326 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
dedication from the leadership of the Ms. SCANLON. Mr. Speaker, we have While these statistics are rightfully
IRS, and it is past time, Mr. Speaker, lost over 100,000 lives to this pan- alarming, this problem is not unique to
for them to get it together. demic—that we know of—and people on Minnesota. States like South Dakota,
f the front lines are still waiting for the Missouri, North Carolina, Virginia, and
PPE they need to protect themselves Iowa have similar issues. Pork and
TIME TO GIVE AMERICA HOPE
and our communities. livestock producers are suffering huge
(Mrs. MCBATH asked and was given Every single day, healthcare pro- losses, financial and otherwise, and all
permission to address the House for 1 viders, States, and first responders tell through no fault of their own.
minute and to revise and extend her re- us that they are being forced to com- I urge my colleagues on both sides of
marks.) pete for high-priced supplies, if they the aisle to join me in supporting this
Mrs. MCBATH. Mr. Speaker, this is can find any at all. They are told to bill. We must stand with our family
not the time to back down. keep a 90-day supply for the fall surge, farmers and defend the interests of
In my home State of Georgia, hard-
when it is a miracle if they have rural communities, the American econ-
working Georgians have been laid off,
enough supplies for 2 weeks. omy, and our food supply.
small businesses have had to close, and
Our frontline workers are feeling f
families are worried about the health
abandoned by their government. How
and well-being of their loved ones. INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO
Americans everywhere are counting can we blame them?
The President is claiming victory in HEALTHCARE ISSUES
on us to help them get through this
crisis as safely as possible. This is what a crisis we are still fighting, visiting (Mr. MORELLE asked and was given
we are sent to Washington to do: to State after State and saying it is safe permission to address the House for 1
protect and to uplift our communities to reopen completely when it is not. He minute and to revise and extend his re-
in a time such as this. has the authority to use the Defense marks.)
We must work together, Republicans Production Act to increase production Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, with so
and Democrats, to make a difference in of PPE to save lives and chooses not much uncertainty in our future, fami-
the lives of those we represent when to, while the safety of our frontline lies shouldn’t have the additional bur-
they need us most. workers hangs in the balance. den of worrying about the state of
This is the time to give America We have sent countless letters, intro- their healthcare. Unfortunately,
hope. duced bills, and passed legislation. We though, COVID–19 has only further ex-
This is the time to govern with our need the President to act. The Amer- posed the cracks in our healthcare sys-
hearts, and not partisan politics, be- ican people need straight talk, not tem and forced us all to face the ur-
cause we can get through this pan- magical thinking. We need leaders who gency with which we must work to ad-
demic together, stronger and more uni- listen to civil servants when they raise dress them.
fied than before. alarms, not fire the messenger. As we continue to respond to the pub-
f We can defeat this pandemic if we lic health crisis, I have been working
hear the facts and act on them. with my colleagues here in the House
REMEMBERING SAM JOHNSON to find innovative and timely solutions
f
(Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given for the problems that COVID–19 con-
permission to address the House for 1 AMERICA’S LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY tinues to exacerbate.
minute and to revise and extend his re- IN CRISIS Over the past several months, I have
marks.) (Mr. HAGEDORN asked and was fought for the price of insulin and
Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in given permission to address the House other drugs to be lowered immediately
sadness today, acknowledging the news for 1 minute and to revise and extend because families that are struggling
I received late last night of the loss of his remarks.) need access to lifesaving medication. I
our former colleague from Texas, Mr. Mr. HAGEDORN. Mr. Speaker, I rise fought alongside my colleagues for
Sam Johnson, a great American. today because America’s livestock in- more supplies for our healthcare work-
I had the pleasure of knowing him dustry is in crisis. In southern Min- ers, for hospitals, and for community
personally. His story is amazing of his nesota and across the country, this has healthcare centers.
life serving our country. Of course, he particularly hit our hog farmers. They We can’t let up now. We must con-
is known as being a Vietnam POW, are in big trouble. Packing plant dis- tinue to take steps that address the
held 7 years in what is known as the ruptions have led to excess hogs and health disparities that place a signifi-
Hanoi Hilton. the actual destruction of animals and cant and dangerous burden on Amer-
He wrote a book about his exploits, not even using the meat for the food ican families.
including that part, called ‘‘Captive supply. I would like to join my colleagues
Warriors: A Vietnam POW’s Story.’’ I The situation is so bad that, this and constituents in remembering the
would highly recommend everybody week, I introduced legislation to miti- lives tragically lost during this pan-
get that and then pass it along. gate losses in this area. I introduced
My sweetest memory of him is Lead- demic and recommit to working to-
the Livestock Producer Assistance for gether to help families across our coun-
er MCCARTHY invited a group of about
COVID–19 Damages Act. This bill will try stay safe.
10 of us Members to go have dinner
expand the USDA’s Emergency Assist- f
with him one night and just sit and lis-
ance for Livestock, Honeybees, and
ten to this man talk about his life, not HONORING JACK ‘‘JD’’ BARNES
Farm-Raised Catfish Program to cover
only the negative of being a POW, but SHAW
income losses for farmers and pro-
what we always saw here in his posi-
ducers who have been unable to market (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania
tive, upbeat spirit all the time.
This guy was a true cool guy. He was livestock due to packing plant clo- asked and was given permission to ad-
a Thunderbird aerobatic team member sures. dress the House for 1 minute and to re-
and also later directed the Air Force In Minnesota, our hog operators vise and extend his remarks.)
Fighter Weapons School, which is make a significant contribution to our Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania.
known as the Top Gun version of the State’s economy. According to a study Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratu-
Air Force. from the University of Minnesota, cur- late Jack ‘‘JD’’ Barnes Shaw of Rus-
This was an all-around great Amer- rent disruptions in the pork supply sell, Pennsylvania, for accepting a
ican. We will miss him badly. chain, coupled with the current 15 per- fully qualified appointment to the
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f
cent unemployment rate, could result United States Naval Academy.
in an estimated loss of $660 million of Jack is the son of James and Ruth
THE NEED FOR PERSONAL economic activity in our State. The re- Shaw and a senior at Agora Cyber
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT searchers also concluded that a 15 per- Charter School. During his time in
(Ms. SCANLON asked and was given cent drop in hog production would lead school, Jack was very involved with
permission to address the House for 1 to an estimated loss of 2,100 Minnesota the Boy Scouts, Civil Air Patrol, and
minute.) jobs. fencing.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2327
Over the years, Jack has held many direct result of the quality of the VA percentage by which benefit amounts pay-
leadership positions, including senior leadership. able under title II of the Social Security Act
patrol leader in his Boy Scout troop Mr. Speaker, that is why I support (42 U.S.C. 401 et seq.) are increased effective
December 1, 2020, as a result of a determina-
and a Sea Scout National Quarterdeck, the Competitive Pay for Leaders in tion under section 215(i) of such Act (42
a representative on the Sea Scout Na- Veterans Healthcare Act and encour- U.S.C. 415(i)).
tional Committee. He is an Eagle Scout age my colleagues to do the same. No (d) SPECIAL RULE.—The Secretary of Vet-
and has been recognized as the 2018 one fights harder for our veterans than erans Affairs may adjust administratively,
Northeast Region Sea Scout of the President Trump. He has always made consistent with the increases made under
Year. us a top priority, and I am glad that he subsection (a), the rates of disability com-
pensation payable to persons under section
Jack’s dedication and discipline are and the VA Secretary will support this
10 of Public Law 85–857 (72 Stat. 1263) who
two traits that will lead to his success measure, and I look forward to its pas- have not received compensation under chap-
at the U.S. Naval Academy. Jack is a sage. ter 11 of title 38, United States Code.
proven leader. I wish him the best in f SEC. 3. PUBLICATION OF ADJUSTED RATES.
this exciting new chapter of his life. The Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall
f ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER publish in the Federal Register the amounts
PRO TEMPORE specified in section 2(b), as increased under
b 0915 that section, not later than the date on
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- which the matters specified in section
RECOGNIZING JOE JOYCE ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair 215(i)(2)(D) of the Social Security Act (42
(Mr. ROSE of New York asked and will postpone further proceedings U.S.C. 415(i)(2)(D)) are required to be pub-
was given permission to address the today on motions to suspend the rules lished by reason of a determination made
House for 1 minute.) on which the yeas and nays are or- under section 215(i) of such Act during fiscal
dered. year 2021.
Mr. ROSE of New York. Mr. Speaker,
I rise today to remember all those who The House will resume proceedings The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
we have lost to the coronavirus, and on postponed questions at a later time. ant to the rule, the gentleman from
one man in particular who is close to f California (Mr. TAKANO) and the gen-
my heart and the hearts of thousands tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DAVID P.
of people in my district. VETERANS’ COMPENSATION COST- ROE) each will control 20 minutes.
Joe Joyce may best be known for his OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT ACT OF The Chair recognizes the gentleman
bar in Bay Ridge, J.J. Bubbles, but the 2020 from California.
Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I move to GENERAL LEAVE
truth is he served our community
much more than cold beer. His gen- suspend the rules and pass the bill Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask
erous spirit touched countless lives on (H.R. 6168) to increase, effective as of unanimous consent that all Members
both sides of the Verrazzano. December 1, 2020, the rates of com- may have 5 legislative days in which to
Joe was an Army veteran who served pensation for veterans with service- revise and extend their remarks and to
in Vietnam, and after he returned connected disabilities and the rates of insert extraneous materials on H.R.
home his service continued. He worked dependency and indemnity compensa- 6168.
as a phys ed teacher for disabled stu- tion for the survivors of certain dis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there
dents on Staten Island, supported the abled veterans, and for other purposes. objection to the request of the gen-
Special Olympics, and would offer up The Clerk read the title of the bill. tleman from California?
There was no objection.
his bar to host fundraisers for any or- The text of the bill is as follows:
Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield
ganization who asked. That was one H.R. 6168 myself such time as I may consume.
thing that never changed over the 42 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mr. Speaker, H.R. 6168, the Veterans’
years Joe was in business. As soon as resentatives of the United States of America in Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjust-
you walked into J.J. Bubbles you were Congress assembled, ment Act of 2020 increases veterans’
family. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
disability compensation at the same
Today, we remember and think of This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Veterans’ rate as the annual Social Security in-
Joe’s family: his wife, Jane; his chil- Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment
Act of 2020’’.
crease. This puts a little extra money
dren, Eddie, Kristin, Kevin; and his six in the pockets of our disabled veterans
grandchildren. Joe’s loss can be felt all SEC. 2. INCREASE IN RATES OF DISABILITY COM-
PENSATION AND DEPENDENCY AND and their families to make sure VA
throughout my district, but his gift to INDEMNITY COMPENSATION. benefits keep pace with inflation.
all of us was his unique ability to bring (a) RATE ADJUSTMENT.—Effective on De- While this increase may be a small
people of all stripes together, and that cember 1, 2020, the Secretary of Veterans Af- one, it is an essential one that veterans
is a gift we need now more than ever. fairs shall increase, in accordance with sub- and their families rely on us passing
f section (c), the dollar amounts in effect on each year. In my time as chairman of
November 30, 2020, for the payment of dis-
the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I
QUALITY HEALTHCARE FOR ability compensation and dependency and in-
demnity compensation under the provisions have had the opportunity to speak to
VETERANS
specified in subsection (b). and know many veterans. Many of
(Mr. WATKINS asked and was given (b) AMOUNTS TO BE INCREASED.—The dollar them highlight this bill as a priority
permission to address the House for 1 amounts to be increased pursuant to sub- for them and their families.
minute and to revise and extend his re- section (a) are the following: The cost-of-living adjustment, or
marks.) (1) WARTIME DISABILITY COMPENSATION.— COLA, is vital for ensuring that vet-
Mr. WATKINS. Mr. Speaker, today I Each of the dollar amounts under section erans’ benefits do not decline due to
rise in support of S. 3084, the Competi- 1114 of title 38, United States Code. changes in the economy. For veterans
tive Pay for Leaders in Veterans (2) ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION FOR DEPEND-
with service-connected disabilities,
ENTS.—Each of the dollar amounts under sec-
Healthcare Act. This legislation was this annual change is an assurance to
tion 1115(1) of such title.
introduced by my good friend and fel- (3) CLOTHING ALLOWANCE.—The dollar them and their families that their ben-
low Kansan, the chairman of the Sen- amount under section 1162 of such title. efits will remain consistent. It is a
ate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, (4) DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSA- guarantee we make to them and a
Senator JERRY MORAN. TION TO SURVIVING SPOUSE.—Each of the dol- great source of comfort to many vet-
Our Nation’s veterans deserve the lar amounts under subsections (a) through erans and their families.
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best care possible. We must ensure that (d) of section 1311 of such title. As our country deals with the novel
the VA can recruit and retain high- (5) DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSA- coronavirus pandemic, and the severe
TION TO CHILDREN.—Each of the dollar
quality talented leaders. The Competi- economic effects it will have, it is more
amounts under sections 1313(a) and 1314 of
tive Pay for Leaders in Veterans such title. important than ever that we pass this
Healthcare Act is less about the lead- (c) DETERMINATION OF INCREASE.—Each dol- yearly COLA increase so that veterans
ers, actually, it is more about the vet- lar amount described in subsection (b) shall and their families trust that their ben-
erans as the quality of their care is the be increased by the same percentage as the efits will not decline due to inflation.
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H2328 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
I want to recognize the work of the ents, clothing allowance, dependency York, in an amount not to exceed
Disability Assistance and Memorial Af- and indemnities compensation for $372,600,000.
fairs Subcommittee chair, ELAINE spouses, and dependency and indemnity (5) Construction of a spinal cord injury
building with a community living center, in-
LURIA, for introducing H.R. 6168. I compensation for surviving children.
cluding a parking garage, in San Diego, Cali-
wholeheartedly support H.R. 6168, and Congress must honor our commit- fornia, in an amount not to exceed
urge all of my colleagues to do so as ment to those American heroes who $230,840,000.
well. served in harm’s way so that we could (6) Completion of construction of a medical
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of live in peace at home. As we continue facility project, including a parking garage,
my time. to fight this pandemic, I ask that we in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in an amount not
Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. all keep in mind those who have kept to exceed $307,000,000.
Speaker, I yield myself such time as I us safe at home and abroad. (7) Construction of a new critical care cen-
may consume. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ter in West Los Angeles, California, in an
amount not to exceed $75,790,000.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support support H.R. 6168, and join me and (b) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.—
of H.R. 6168, the Veterans’ Compensa- Ranking Member MIKE BOST in pro- There is authorized to be appropriated to the
tion Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of tecting the earned benefits for our Na- Secretary of Veterans Affairs for fiscal year
2020. The bill was introduced by Dis- tion’s veterans. 2020 or the year in which funds are appro-
ability Assistance and Memorial Af- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. priated for the Construction, Major Projects
fairs Subcommittee Chair ELAINE Speaker, I am prepared to close. I ap- account, $2,271,292,000 for the projects au-
LURIA and Ranking Member MIKE preciate the Members, Mrs. LURIA and thorized in subsection (a).
BOST. I appreciate their leadership on Mr. BOST, bringing this important bill The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
this important issue. up. We pass it every year. I encourage ant to the rule, the gentleman from
The Department of Veterans Affairs all of my colleagues to support this California (Mr. TAKANO) and the gen-
provides compensation benefits to help bill. tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DAVID P.
fulfill our obligation to take care of Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ROE) each will control 20 minutes.
the brave men and women who have of my time. The Chair recognizes the gentleman
been injured during their service to Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I, too, from California.
urge all of my colleagues to join me in GENERAL LEAVE
this great Nation.
H.R. 6168 would authorize a cost-of- passing H.R. 6168. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask
living increase for veterans and their Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance unanimous consent that all Members
families next year, if Social Security of my time. may have 5 legislative days in which to
recipients receive an increase. The an- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The revise and extend their remarks and to
nual COLA is necessary to help vet- question is on the motion offered by insert extraneous material on S. 3414.
erans and families afford their living the gentleman from California (Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there
expenses when prices go up. TAKANO) that the House suspend the objection to the request of the gen-
Currently, many of our Nation’s vet- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6168. tleman from California?
The question was taken; and (two- There was no objection.
erans may have been affected by this Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield
pandemic and are worried about how thirds being in the affirmative) the
myself such time as I may consume.
they are going to pay their bills. The rules were suspended and the bill was
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support
last thing that should be on their passed.
of S. 3414, the Major Medical Facility
minds is whether the value of their VA A motion to reconsider was laid on
Authorization Act of 2020.
benefits will keep pace with inflation. the table. Each year the Department of Vet-
Mr. Speaker, I encourage all Mem- f erans Affairs submits an annual budget
bers to support H.R. 6168. MAJOR MEDICAL FACILITY request to Congress, and then it is our
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2020 job to authorize and appropriate the
my time. funding that VA needs to care for
Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I move to
America’s veterans and their families.
minutes to the gentlewoman from Vir- suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. Within that larger funding request is
ginia (Mrs. LURIA), my good friend and 3414) to authorize major medical facil- VA’s request for funds to replace and
the chairwoman of the Disability As- ity projects for the Department of Vet- modernize its medical facilities. This
sistance and Memorial Affairs Sub- erans Affairs for fiscal year 2020, and year’s major construction requests
committee, the author of H.R. 6168, and for other purposes. total $2.27 billion, and will build a new
a former naval commander. The Clerk read the title of the bill. critical care center in West Los Ange-
Mrs. LURIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise The text of the bill is as follows:
les, California; complete construction
today to speak in support of my bipar- S. 3414 of a medical facility project in San
tisan bill, H.R. 6168, the Veterans’ Com- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Juan, Puerto Rico; construct a spinal
pensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment resentatives of the United States of America in
cord injury center with a community
Congress assembled,
Act of 2020. living center in San Diego, California;
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
During these trying times, I continue complete flood recovery construction
This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Major Med-
to keep our Nation’s veterans at the at the medical center in Manhattan,
ical Facility Authorization Act of 2020’’.
top of my mind as they face unprece- SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION OF MAJOR MEDICAL FA- New York; and fully fund the medical
dented challenges due to the CILITY PROJECTS OF DEPARTMENT facility replacement project in Louis-
coronavirus pandemic. This bill will OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FOR FISCAL ville, Kentucky; as well as construct an
provide the economic relief and pay YEAR 2020.
outpatient clinic and a national ceme-
raise that our veterans have earned. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Vet-
tery in Alameda, California; and fi-
It is an honor to represent more than erans Affairs may carry out the following
major medical facility projects in fiscal year nally, realign the Livermore, Cali-
102,000 veterans, the highest total of 2020 at the locations specified and in an fornia campus.
any district in Virginia, and one of the amount for each project not to exceed the Mr. Speaker, with a major construc-
highest in the country. Our veterans amount specified for such location: tion need that totals more than $15 bil-
put their lives on the line and deployed (1) Construction of an outpatient clinic and lion, this authorization takes needed
far from home to keep America safe. As national cemetery in Alameda, California, in steps to reduce the backlog of major
a 20-year Navy veteran myself, I am an amount not to exceed $113,332,000. construction projects.
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proud to bring a bill to the floor that (2) Realignment and closure of the Liver- It is no secret that VA’s infrastruc-
protects the benefits our veterans have more Campus in Livermore, California, in an ture is old. The average age of its fa-
amount not to exceed $311,730,000.
earned from their service to our coun- cilities is 60. The Secretary of the VA
(3) Construction of a new medical facility
try. in Louisville, Kentucky, in an amount not to himself, Secretary Wilkie, emphasized
H.R. 6168 provides cost-of-living in- exceed $860,000,000. this point by making the statement:
creases for wartime disability com- (4) Construction relating to flood recovery There are several VA facilities that
pensation, compensation for depend- of the medical center in Manhattan, New Abraham Lincoln would recognize.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2329
Even with outdated facilities, the Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I have no may have 5 legislative days in which to
Annals of Internal Medicine found in a further speakers, and I am prepared to revise and extend their remarks and to
2018 report that VA provides better close. I reserve the balance of my time. insert extraneous material on S. 3084,
care than private options in most Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. as amended.
cases. That is right. VA provides better Speaker, I have no further speakers. I The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there
care, even though they are working urge all of my colleagues to join in sup- objection to the request of the gen-
from outdated facilities. What would porting this bill, and I yield back the tleman from California?
those findings look like if VA was com- balance of my time. There was no objection.
peting with a modern infrastructure? Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I encour- Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield
Mr. Speaker, not only does VA pro- age all of my colleagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ myself such time as I may consume.
vide better care, veterans want to use on passage of this important legisla- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S.
VA-delivered healthcare. A survey con- tion, S. 3414, and I yield back the bal- 3084, as amended, a bill to modify the
ducted by the Veterans of Foreign ance of my time. limitation on pay for certain high-level
Wars found that 92 percent of veterans The SPEAKER pro tempore. The employees and officers of the Depart-
who participated in the survey re- question is on the motion offered by ment of Veterans Affairs.
sponded that fixing VA facilities was the gentleman from California (Mr. This legislation retroactively author-
the best way to improve VA’s delivery TAKANO) that the House suspend the izes VA to waive a limitation for basic
of healthcare to veterans. rules and pass the bill, S. 3414. pay for SES-equivalent employees em-
Ninety percent of respondents who The question was taken; and (two- ployed at VA dating back to November
use VA stated they would recommend thirds being in the affirmative) the 1, 2010. These are senior-level clinicians
VA healthcare to another veteran. rules were suspended and the bill was who oversee critical VA medical oper-
It is clear that veterans, given the passed. ations at the VA Central Office and in
option, want to preserve the VA A motion to reconsider was laid on Veterans Integrated Service Networks.
healthcare system and feel that it is a the table. Due to a conflicting interpretation of
quality option for veterans to receive f the law, these senior-level employees
care. were overpaid by VA for almost 10
Mr. Speaker, that is why I support S. MODIFYING PAY LIMITATION FOR
CERTAIN HIGH-LEVEL EMPLOY- years. VA did not notify Congress that
3414. I thank Senator MORAN, the chair- it had been interpreting the pay cap in
man of the Senate Committee on Vet- EES AND OFFICERS OF DEPART-
MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS its statute as not applying to these em-
erans’ Affairs, for prioritizing and pass- ployees until this year.
ing this legislation. Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I move to Mr. Speaker, the Office of Manage-
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. ment and Budget and Office of Per-
my time. 3084) to amend title 38, United States sonnel Management have said this is
b 0930 Code, to modify the limitation on pay an issue that affects approximately 40
for certain high-level employees and senior VA employees, some of whom
Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. officers of the Department of Veterans
Speaker, I yield myself such time as I play critical support roles in VA’s re-
Affairs, as amended. sponse to the global COVID–19 pan-
may consume. The Clerk read the title of the bill.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support The text of the bill is as follows: demic.
of S. 3414, the VA Major Medical Facil- Now, without this legislative fix,
S. 3084
ity Authorization Act. This bill is these employees, through no fault of
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep-
sponsored by my good friends on the resentatives of the United States of America in their own, will be liable for a salary
other side of the Capitol, Chairman Congress assembled, overpayment, plus any benefits tied to
JERRY MORAN and Ranking Member SECTION 1. MODIFICATION OF PAY LIMITATION the salary, to include employee and
JON TESTER of the Senate Committee FOR CERTAIN HIGH-LEVEL EMPLOY- agency retirement fund contributions.
EES AND OFFICERS OF THE DEPART- While VA could request a waiver of
on Veterans’ Affairs. MENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
This bill would authorize the con- this debt on behalf of the employees
(a) MODIFICATION.—Section 7404(d) of title
struction of the Department of Vet- 38, United States Code, is amended by insert- under the law, a waiver will not com-
erans Affairs major medical facility ing ‘‘and except for individuals appointed pletely address the negative financial
projects in Kentucky, California, New under sections 7401(4) and 7306 of this title,’’ effects these employees will experi-
York, and Puerto Rico. The COVID–19 after ‘‘section 7457 of this title,’’. ence. Their retirement and Thrift Sav-
pandemic has shown us the value of the (b) WAIVERS.— ings Plan matching debt cannot be cor-
(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans rected.
VA healthcare system in serving not
Affairs may waive the limitation described Mr. Speaker, VA has been making up
just our Nation’s veterans, which is the in section 7404(d) of such title, as in effect on
Department’s foremost responsibility, the day before the date of the enactment of
the difference between the $156,000 cap
but also in supporting all Americans this Act, on the amount of basic pay payable and the rate of pay that has been re-
during times of crisis. to individuals appointed under section 7401(4) ceived by the affected employees with
The seven projects that would be au- or 7306 of such title for basic pay payable bonuses, which do not count toward
thorized in this legislation have been during the period— employee and agency retirement fund
requested by the administration in (A) beginning on November 1, 2010; and contributions and other Federal bene-
VA’s most recent budget submission. (B) ending on the day before the date of the fits.
enactment of this Act. Since VA has faced significant chal-
They would increase access to high-
(2) FORM.—The Secretary shall prescribe
quality care and services to veterans of lenges hiring qualified healthcare lead-
the form for requesting a waiver under para-
all ages and eras. It would also ensure graph (1). ers in the past, removing any remain-
that VA is better able to fulfill the De- (3) TREATMENT OF WAIVER.—A decision not ing barriers to ensuring VA can recruit
partment’s important service training, to grant a waiver under paragraph (1) shall and retain senior clinicians is crucial.
research, and emergency response mis- not be treated as an adverse action and is Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to
sions. not subject to further appeal, third-party re- support S. 3084, as amended, and I re-
Mr. Speaker, to associate myself view, or judicial review. serve the balance of my time.
with the chairman’s remarks, Abraham The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr.
Lincoln would recognize the VA med- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
ical center in my hometown, which was California (Mr. TAKANO) and the gen- may consume.
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authorized right after the Civil War tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DAVID P. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support
and opened in 1903 as an Old Soldiers’ ROE) each will control 20 minutes. of S. 3084, as amended. This bill is spon-
Home and now is a first-class VA med- The Chair recognizes the gentleman sored by Chairman JERRY MORAN and
ical center. from California. Ranking Member JON TESTER of the
I urge all of my colleagues to join me GENERAL LEAVE Senate Committee on Veterans’ Af-
in supporting this bill. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I ask fairs, and I am grateful for them for in-
reserve the balance of my time. unanimous consent that all Members troducing it.
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H2330 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
S. 3084, as amended, would correct an card and have to step up, raise up on have so many of our Vietnam-era vet-
error in existing law that impedes em- his toes to put his card—I would get erans who are extremely vulnerable be-
ployees serving in Senior Executive tears in my eyes watching him—put his cause they have underlying conditions.
Service-equivalent positions in the De- card in that voting machine over there I know that many of our veterans have
partment of Veterans Health Adminis- to cast his vote. been playing leadership roles among
tration from receiving their full sala- We owe Sam and many veterans like their neighbors to lead their neighbors
ries. Congress passed legislation in 2010 him who have given the ultimate sac- in responding to COVID–19, the novel
to ensure that the individuals in those rifice to this great country a debt that coronavirus.
positions would be appropriately com- we can never pay back. I thank all of those veterans across
pensated for their work. I served at the same time that Sam our country for leading that effort.
However, VA discovered a technical did. I was in the 2nd Infantry Division Coming off of the Memorial Day week-
error in that legislation just last year in Korea but I did not serve in Viet- end, it is certainly always a poignant
that, unless corrected, would result in nam, and I can’t thank those men and holiday that we observe in recognition
those hardworking men and women in- women enough. of those who made the ultimate sac-
stead having their salaries signifi- To my colleagues, my brothers and rifice.
cantly reduced. It would also result in sisters, welcome home. With regard to S. 3084, I urge my col-
VA having to issue and collect debts Mr. Speaker, before I yield back, I leagues to pass it. It is the right thing
for current and former employees who would like to take a moment to thank to do. We need to do right by the senior
served in these high-level positions Chairman TAKANO and the leadership leaders of the VA. We need to make
over the last decade. That is certainly on both sides of the aisle for bringing sure that we continue to attract the
not what Congress intended. these three important bills to the floor very best to serve our veterans in the
The VA employees who are impacted today. Our actions show that, like service of the Veterans Department.
by this issue are serving in mission- many other Americans, we can con- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance
critical positions across the VA tinue to do our jobs and our part to re- of my time.
healthcare system. Many of them have open the country and our economy in a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
been working around the clock, leading safe and productive way. question is on the motion offered by
VA’s response to the COVID–19 pan- While I am pleased that we are debat- the gentleman from California (Mr.
demic. They are responsible for ensur- ing these bills today, I am disappointed TAKANO) that the House suspend the
ing that veterans and VA employees that H.R. 3504, the Ryan Kules and rules and pass the bill, S. 3084, as
are safe and well cared for and that VA Paul Benne Specially Adaptive Housing amended.
is able to fulfill the Department’s Improvement Act of 2019, was not in- The question was taken; and (two-
fourth mission obligation to support cluded on today’s agenda. H.R. 3504 is a thirds being in the affirmative) the
the national response to this crisis. bipartisan bill introduced by Rep- rules were suspended and the bill, as
They and their colleagues have per- resentatives GUS BILIRAKIS and MIKE amended, was passed.
formed incredibly lifesaving work dur- LEVIN that would make important im- A motion to reconsider was laid on
ing the pandemic. I commend them for provements to the specially adaptive the table.
their efforts, which I know will con- housing program that helps severely f
tinue to be critical in the weeks and injured veterans adapt their homes. b 0945
months ahead. Making them whole by The bill would also require important
passing this bill today is the least we changes to the administration of VA SMALL BUSINESS TRANSPARENCY
can do for them in return. work-study benefits and make im- AND REPORTING FOR THE
I am glad to be back at work in our provements to the GI Bill. UNDERBANKED AND TAXPAYERS
Nation’s Capitol, as our constituents The bill has already passed the House AT HOME ACT
always intended for us to be, and to and has now come back over from the Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
support this bill today as a small token Senate. It represents a four corners bi- move to suspend the rules and pass the
of appreciation to the VA leaders who cameral agreement, and the bill is bill (H.R. 6782) to require the Adminis-
are steering the Department through strongly supported by our veterans trator of the Small Business Adminis-
the crisis on behalf of our Nation’s vet- service organizations. tration to submit a report on recipi-
erans and families. I hope in the coming days we can ents of assistance under the paycheck
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of pass the bill and send it to President protection program and the economic
my time. Trump’s desk as soon as possible. Dur- injury disaster loan program, and for
Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I have no ing this difficult time, we should be other purposes, as amended.
further speakers, and I am prepared to doing all we can to help support se- The Clerk read the title of the bill.
close. I reserve the balance of my time. verely disabled veterans and student The text of the bill is as follows:
Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. veterans. H.R. 6782
Speaker, I yield myself the balance of I thank the chairman. During this Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep-
my time. I have no further speakers, time that we have been at home with resentatives of the United States of America in
and I am prepared to close. our constituents and with our families Congress assembled,
I would like to start, since Monday and really confined, we tried to con- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
was Memorial Day, to associate myself tinue to work, and I want to commend This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Small Busi-
with the remarks of Mr. LAMALFA from the chairman on being able to do this. ness Transparency and Reporting for the
California about Sam Johnson, one of Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- Underbanked and Taxpayers at Home Act’’
our colleagues. leagues to support this bill, and I yield or the ‘‘TRUTH Act’’.
SEC. 2. REPORT.
Sam Johnson is one of the reasons I back the balance of my time.
am so proud to have served in this Not later than 30 days after the date of the
Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I yield
enactment of this Act, the Administrator of
body. Sam was one of the most incred- myself the balance of my time. the Small Business Administration shall
ible human beings I have ever met. He I associate myself with the remarks make publicly available, in an online format
spent over 40 months in solitary con- about the memory of our recently de- that is sortable and searchable for key words
finement, chained to a concrete floor. parted former Member. Of course, all of and downloadable (to the extent technically
This man came back to this country as our Vietnam veterans who paid the ul- practicable), the following information with
a Wounded Warrior, but he did not let timate sacrifice but also those who respect to the paycheck protection program
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that stop him. He went ahead and had came back from that service in that and the economic injury disaster loan pro-
a very fulfilling life and really affected war, we all owe a debt of gratitude to- gram:
(1) An identification of each recipient of
many of us in ways Sam will never ward them. assistance in an amount greater than
know. I recall my own uncle, who, unfortu- $2,000,000 from funds appropriated under the
I can remember seeing Sam on this nately, committed suicide. I remember CARES Act (Public Law 116–136) or the Pay-
floor. Sam was so beat up in his cap- coming back from school and learning check Protection Program and Health Care
tivity that he would take his voting that he had committed suicide. We Enhancement Act (Public Law 116–139).
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2331
(2) An explanation of the decision-making dress these problems if Congress can- VELÁZQUEZ and her staff for working
processes under which such funds were dis- not track where the money is going to with me and with my staff on this leg-
bursed. verify that it is reaching the families islation, as well as many other pieces
(3) The number of employees of each entity
and businesses that need it most. of legislation in the past.
that received such assistance.
To that end, my colleagues and I On this specific bill, we were able to
(4) The date on which such assistance was
disbursed. have sent multiple oversight letters to negotiate a couple of changes that
(5) An identification of each lender or SBA requesting detailed data and in- made the bill slightly more palatable
intermediary through which such assistance formation on the implementation of for those of us on this side of the aisle,
was disbursed. the Paycheck Protection Program and and that would have not happened
(6) The amount of assistance provided to Economic Injury Disaster Loans. To without the chairwoman’s leadership,
small business concerns owned and con- date, we have not received anything so we do appreciate that.
trolled by socially and economically dis- more than what SBA has published on That said, philosophically, it is ex-
advantaged individuals (as defined in section their website. This is simply unaccept-
8(d)(3)(C) of the Small Business Act (15
ceptionally difficult for me and others
able. on this side of the aisle to accept the
U.S.C. 637(d)(3)(C)), small business concern
owned and controlled by women (as defined
It is vital that the administration be bill in its entirety. For instance, I am
under section 3(n) of such Act (15 U.S.C. transparent and good stewards of tax- a firm believer that small businesses
632(n)), and small business concern owned payers’ dollars. I am proud to support are just that, small businesses; and as
and controlled by veterans (as defined in sec- the bipartisan effort before us today, long as they qualify under the Small
tion 3(q) of such Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)), from led by my esteemed colleagues Mr. Business Act and the SBA size stand-
information voluntarily provided by such PHILLIPS of Minnesota and Mr. ards, no one small business ought to
concerns. FITZPATRICK of Pennsylvania.
SEC. 3. COMMITMENTS FOR 7(a) LOANS.
have to do anything different under the
The bill requires SBA to publish an law than any other small business.
Notwithstanding any other provision of online database of the recipients of
law, the amounts authorized for commit- In addition to all the burdensome re-
PPP and EIDL loans over $2 million. It porting requirements this legislation
ments for general business loans authorized
under section 7(a) of the Small Business Act would also list the number of employ- would impose on small businesses,
(15 U.S.C. 636(a)) under the heading ‘‘BUSI- ees at each business benefiting from there are two specific provisions that
NESS LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT’’ under the this assistance and the amount of are difficult for us to support.
heading ‘‘SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION’’ funds provided to underserved busi- First, the bill we have before us at-
under title V of the Consolidated Appropria- nesses.
tions Act, 2020 (Public Law 116–93; 133 Stat. tempts to name—and some would say,
This is precisely the kind of data
2475) shall apply with respect to loans made shame—businesses that are recent PPP
Congress needs to ensure that the pro-
under such section 7(a), other than loans loan recipients above $2 million. And I
grams are being administered as in-
made under paragraph (36) of such section do appreciate Chairwoman VELÁZQUEZ
7(a), on and after the date of enactment of tended and, more importantly, to en-
going from $250,000 to $2 million.
this Act. sure the scarce funds are reaching
These businesses—at least the ones
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- those communities and businesses that
that acted in good faith—followed the
ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from need it most.
Furthermore, the bill includes lan- law and the guidelines and received
New York (Ms. VELÁZQUEZ) and the their loans based on the best informa-
gentleman from Ohio (Mr. CHABOT) guage that will decouple the 7(a) loan
program and Paycheck Protection Pro- tion available at that time, and I do
each will control 20 minutes. not believe that those businesses
The Chair recognizes the gentle- gram accounts.
Currently, both programs share the should be put on public display for po-
woman from New York. tential shaming.
GENERAL LEAVE same appropriations account, meaning
that once the Paycheck Protection If they didn’t follow the rules, we
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask have remedies for calling them out,
unanimous consent that all Members Program appropriation lapses, the 7(a)
loan program will shut down along such as the SBA’s Office of the Inspec-
may have 5 legislative days in which to tor General, even the Department of
revise and extend their remarks and in- with it. It was never congressional in-
tent to tie the future of both programs Justice, to seek out waste, fraud, and
clude extraneous material on the meas- abuse. Publicly naming them will do
ure under consideration. together, so in order to preserve the
sustainability of the 7(a) loan program, little to increase transparency or any-
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there thing else, for that matter, we believe.
objection to the request of the gentle- it is necessary to decouple the two ac-
counts. Second, the bill requires, albeit vol-
woman from New York? untarily, small businesses to disclose
There was no objection. At a time when the future of the
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I small business economy is so uncer- whether they are economically dis-
yield myself such time as I may con- tain, it is of top importance to ensure advantaged, minority owned, women
sume. the long-term sustainability of the 7(a) owned, or veteran owned. As I men-
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the loan program. This language achieves tioned previously, I believe we ought to
bill before us today, H.R. 6782, the that goal. be making regulatory burdens fewer
Small Business Transparency and Re- I applaud the bipartisanship and, and farther between, not imposing
porting for the Underbanked and Tax- more importantly, the commitment to more paperwork that doesn’t help any
payers at Home Act, or the TRUTH being good stewards of the taxpayers’ business fight this pandemic.
Act. dollars. Again, Mr. Speaker, I reluctantly op-
The CARES Act and the Paycheck Mr. Speaker, I urge all my col- pose this legislation but again thank
Protection Program and Health Care leagues, Republican and Democrat, to the chairwoman for her leadership and
Enhancement Act provided over $725 join me in voting for stronger trans- willingness to work with us on these
billion in relief to nonprofits, small parency and oversight of the CARES bills and on many issues facing Amer-
businesses, and the independently em- Act programs. Our hardworking small ica’s small businesses moving forward.
ployed who are struggling to cope with business owners and the American peo- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of
the economic downturn brought about ple deserve no less. my time.
by the spread of COVID–19. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
By utilizing the SBA’s Economic In- my time. yield as much time as he may consume
jury Disaster Loan Program and cre- Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr.
ating the Paycheck Protection Pro- myself such time as I may consume. PHILLIPS), the sponsor of the bill.
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gram, Congress took swift action to I rise in reluctant opposition to H.R. Mr. PHILLIPS. Mr. Speaker, I thank
provide a necessary lifeline. And while 6782, the Small Business Transparency Chairwoman VELÁZQUEZ for yielding.
both programs have saved countless and Reporting for the Underbanked and Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk
livelihoods, jobs, and businesses, mil- Taxpayers at Home Act, or the TRUTH about truth.
lions more remain left out. Act, as amended. Now, you would think that truth
Unfortunately, it won’t matter how Mr. Speaker, I do want to express my would not be up for debate in this
much money Congress spends to ad- appreciation to Chairwoman Chamber, yet here we stand literally
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H2332 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
debating my bill, the TRUTH Act, b 1000 able in an online, searchable, sortable, and
which simply injects transparency and This data collection and trans- downloadable format within 30 days of pas-
accountability into the very largest ex- parency bill is a positive step in that sage:
penditure of taxpayer money in Amer- direction, providing much-needed 1. The identity of every recipient of a grant
ican history. transparency and accountability. or loan that was funded by the CARES Act or
That is it. There is no hidden agenda, Knowledge is power and, with this bill, the Payroll Protection Program and Health
just a straightforward requirement for the public will finally have the knowl- Care Enhancement Act;
the Small Business Administration to edge on how these programs have been 2. An explanation of the SBA’s decision-
publish information about how Federal implemented, where the money has making process;
relief dollars are flowing and where gone, who has gotten it and who hasn’t. 3. The number of employees at the entity in
they are going. And that truth should Not only will this empower the peo- question;
be important to every American: busi- ple, it will empower Congress as we 4. The date when the grant or loan was dis-
ness owners and patrons, bankers and continue working to optimize the bursed;
borrowers, Republicans and Democrats. CARES Act programs. 5. The identification number of the bank or
We cannot accept a situation in The bill also clarifies the program lender that administered the grant or loan; and
accounts for the Paycheck Protection 6. The amount of assistance provided to
which bigger businesses with access to
Program and the 7(a) Loan Program small businesses owned by socially and eco-
other sources of liquidity are pushing
are wholly distinct, ensuring that the nomically disadvantaged individuals, women,
to the front of the line at the expense
SBA’s flagship lending program will and veterans.
of those with the greatest need, par- Mr. Speaker, the COVID–19 pandemic has
ticularly minority-, women-, and vet- not shut down when the Paycheck Pro-
tection Program appropriation lapses. challenged us in ways we could have scarcely
eran-owned businesses that are strug- imagined; it has claimed lives and destroyed
gling the very most during the pan- As the small business economy be-
gins to recover in the coming weeks livelihoods all across our nation.
demic. We are in this together and we will come
I won’t accept it. and months, small businesses need to
be able to access affordable capital to out stronger and better.
I am on a mission to restore Ameri- And we do that by caring for each other and
rehire workers, restock their shelves,
cans’ faith in their government. But rendering equal, justice and fairness, whether
and resume operations. This language
trust is earned by action, not by words. it is in the area of coronavirus testing, distribu-
ensures the 7(a) program will be an op-
So I ask my colleagues to join me in tion of PPE, or economic assistance.
tion for them in the next phase of re-
supporting the TRUTH Act, in allowing Our small businesses need help and they
covery.
the American people to see where their I urge my colleagues to support this need the truth, which is why I urge my col-
money is going and in ensuring that measure, and I yield back the balance leagues to join me in voting to pass H.R.
businesses that need relief the most are of my time. 6782, the TRUTH Act.
getting it. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
They say that sunlight is the best strong support of H.R. 6782, the Small Busi- question is on the motion offered by
disinfectant, and we could surely use ness Transparency and Reporting for the the gentlewoman from New York (Ms.
more of it here. Underbanked and Taxpayers at Home Act or VELÁZQUEZ) that the House suspend the
Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield TRUTH Act, which directs the Small Business rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6782, as
myself the balance of my time. I want Administration (SBA) to explain and justify all amended.
to thank the gentlewoman from New disbursements of coronavirus relief funds, en- The question was taken.
York (Ms. VELÁZQUEZ) on her leader- suring transparency and accountability from The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the
ship, and I regret that we cannot sup- this critical agency. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being
port this particular piece of legisla- Together, the CARES Act and the Payroll in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
tion; however, I am certain that we Protection Program and Health Care Enhance- Mr. ROY. Mr. Speaker, on that I de-
will continue to work together in a bi- ment Act together allocated more than $2 tril- mand the yeas and nays.
partisan manner to address the needs lion to address the devastating coronavirus The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
of America’s small businesses. pandemic, the most expensive relief package ant to section 3 of House Resolution
I would note, just in response, brief- ever authorized by Congress, and the largest 965, the yeas and nays are ordered.
ly, to the gentleman’s mention that outlay of taxpayer funds in all human history. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, fur-
this is called the TRUTH Act, just be- The stakes simply are too high to allow irre- ther proceedings on this question are
cause something is called the TRUTH sponsible stewardship, and those charged with postponed.
Act doesn’t necessarily mean that it is disbursing coronavirus relief funds must be f
the truth, just like something called held to the highest standards and held to ac- PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
the Affordable Care Act doesn’t nec- count for misfeasance or malfeasance. FLEXIBILITY ACT OF 2020
essarily mean it is going to make Mr. Speaker, it is wholly unacceptable that
the SBA has not to date provided full trans- Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
healthcare more affordable. move to suspend the rules and pass the
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance parency over its administration of the Payroll
Protection Program (PPP) and Economic In- bill (H.R. 7010) to amend the Small
of my time. Business Act and the CARES Act to
jury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL).
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I modify certain provisions related to
PPP and EIDL were created by Congress to
yield myself such time as I may con- the forgiveness of loans under the pay-
provide relief for small businesses affected by
sume. check protection program, to allow re-
the pandemic, and more than $700 billion has
Mr. Speaker, when this body spent been allocated in service of those goals. cipients of loan forgiveness under the
trillions of dollars to address the eco- However, in too many cases the programs paycheck protection program to defer
nomic downturn brought about by did not function as Congress intended, and payroll taxes, and for other purposes,
COVID–19, we included a special inspec- large organizations such as the Los Angeles as amended.
tor general to provide oversight over Lakers received funding while many of our The Clerk read the title of the bill.
the expenditure of these dollars. Unfor- smallest and most vulnerable businesses were The text of the bill is as follows:
tunately, President Trump said the unable to secure assistance. H.R. 7010
special IG could not issue reports to In light of this mismanagement, it is impera- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep-
Congress without Presidential super- tive that SBA be subject to an exhaustive resentatives of the United States of America in
vision and subsequently removed the audit of its handling of PPP and EIDL funding. Congress assembled,
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
acting IG at the Pentagon and chair- The agency has refused to do so voluntarily, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
man of the panel. requiring Congress to mandate compliance This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Paycheck
So with the erosion of account- Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020’’.
from the agency that exists to serve small
SEC. 2. MATURITY FOR LOANS WITH REMAINING
ability, transparency is needed more business, the backbone of the American econ- BALANCE AFTER APPLICATION OF
than ever. Congress needs to ensure omy. FORGIVENESS.
that there is no waste, fraud, or abuse The TRUTH Act would require the SBA to (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7(a)(36)(K)(ii) of
of taxpayers’ dollars. make the following information publicly avail- the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36))
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2333
is amended by inserting ‘‘minimum maturity a covered loan before the date of enactment Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
of 5 years and a’’ before ‘‘maximum matu- of this subsection may elect for the covered yield myself such time as I may con-
rity’’. period applicable to such covered loan to end sume.
(b) EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICABILITY.—The on the date that is 8 weeks after the date of
amendment made by this section shall take
I rise in support of the bipartisan bill
the origination of such covered loan.’’.
effect on the date of the enactment of this (c) EXTENSION OF DEFERRAL PERIOD.—Sec-
before us today, H.R. 7010, the Pay-
Act and shall apply to any loan made pursu- tion 7(a)(36)(M) of the Small Business Act (15 check Protection Program Flexibility
ant to section 7(a)(36) of the Small Business U.S.C. 636(a)(36)(M)) is amended— Act of 2020.
Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36)) on or after such (1) in clause (ii)(II), by striking ‘‘for a pe- We all knew the rollout of the Pay-
date. Nothing in this Act, the CARES Act riod of not less than 6 months, including check Protection Program was going
(Public Law 116–136), or the Paycheck Pro- payment of principal, interest, and fees, and to be rocky, given the size of the pro-
tection Program and Health Care Enhance- not more than 1 year.’’ and inserting the fol- gram and the speed with which it was
ment Act (Public Law 116–139) shall be con- lowing: ‘‘, including payment of principal, in- stood up.
strued to prohibit lenders and borrowers terest, and fees, until the date on which the We are thankful for the staff at SBA
from mutually agreeing to modify the matu- amount of forgiveness determined under sec-
rity terms of a covered loan described in sub- for their hard work assisting small
tion 1106 of the CARES Act is remitted to
paragraph (K) of such section to conform businesses during this dire time. This
the lender.’’;
with requirements of this section. (2) in clause (iii), by striking ‘‘for a period is, undoubtedly, the most enormous
SEC. 3. AMENDMENTS TO PAYCHECK PROTEC- of not less than 6 months, including payment undertaking the agency has ever per-
TION PROGRAM LOAN FORGIVE- of principal, interest, and fees, and not more formed. They have done so under dif-
NESS.
than 1 year.’’ and inserting the following: ‘‘, ficult circumstances and remarkably
(a) EXTENSION OF COVERED PERIOD.—Sec-
tion 7(a)(36)(A)(iii) of the Small Business Act
including payment of principal, interest, and quickly.
(15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36)(A)(iii)) is amended by
fees, until the date on which the amount of With that said, my colleagues and I
forgiveness determined under section 1106 of have been hearing from Main Street
striking ‘‘June 30, 2020’’ and inserting ‘‘De-
the CARES Act is remitted to the lender.’’; small businesses that they need
cember 31, 2020’’.
(b) FORGIVENESS.—Section 1106 of the and changes to make the program work for
CARES Act (Public Law 116–136) is amend- (3) by adding at the end the following new
clause:
them.
ed— I think we can all agree the economic
(1) in subsection (a), by striking paragraph ‘‘(v) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—If an eligible
recipient fails to apply for forgiveness of a crisis brought on by COVID–19 has
(3) and inserting the following: proven more severe and drawn out than
‘‘(3) the term ‘covered period’ means, sub- covered loan within 10 months after the last
day of the covered period defined in section many anticipated. In some cases, State
ject to subsection (l), the period beginning
on the date of the origination of a covered 1106(a) of the CARES Act, such eligible re- and local governments have extended
loan and ending the earlier of— cipient shall make payments of principal, in- shutdowns and stay-at-home orders.
‘‘(A) the date that is 24 weeks after such terest, and fees on such covered loan begin- Many localities are only now allowing
date of origination; or ning on the day that is not earlier than the small businesses to reopen, very gradu-
date that is 10 months after the last day of
‘‘(B) December 31, 2020;’’; ally, in phases.
such covered period.’’.
(2) in subsection (d)—
(d) EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICABILITY.—The
In other instances, small business
(A) in paragraph (5)(B), by striking ‘‘June owners have reported concerns that the
amendments made by this section shall be
30, 2020’’ each place it appears and inserting economy will not fully recover until
effective as if included in the CARES Act
‘‘December 31, 2020’’; and there is an affordable, widely acces-
(Public Law 116–136) and shall apply to any
(B) by adding at the end the following new
paragraphs:
loan made pursuant to section 7(a)(36) of the sible COVID–19 vaccine.
‘‘(7) EXEMPTION BASED ON EMPLOYEE AVAIL-
Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36)) or Regardless, the extended nature of
section 1109 of the CARES Act. the economic downturn has made it
ABILITY.—During the period beginning on
SEC. 4. DELAY OF PAYMENT OF EMPLOYER PAY- necessary to enact certain legislative
February 15, 2020, and ending on December
ROLL TAXES.
31, 2020, the amount of loan forgiveness reforms to the program.
(a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2302(a) of the First, we need to give borrowers
under this section shall be determined with-
CARES Act (Public Law 116–136) is amended
out regard to a proportional reduction in the
by striking paragraph (3).
more than 8 weeks to use the funds in
number of full-time equivalent employees if order to qualify for loan forgiveness.
(b) EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICABILITY.—The
an eligible recipient, in good faith— Borrowers who took out PPP loans
amendments made by this section shall be
‘‘(A) is able to document— early in the program are about to
effective as if included in the CARES Act
‘‘(i) an inability to rehire individuals who
were employees of the eligible recipient on
(Public Law 116–136) and shall apply to any reach the end of their 8-week period
loan made pursuant to section 7(a)(36) of the governing forgiveness. However, mil-
February 15, 2020; and
Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(a)(36)) or lions of small businesses across the Na-
‘‘(ii) an inability to hire similarly qualified
section 1109 of the CARES Act.
employees for unfilled positions on or before tion are still facing forced closures.
SEC. 5. EMERGENCY DESIGNATION.
December 31, 2020; or Those that are reopening are re-
(a) IN GENERAL.—This Act is designated as
‘‘(B) is able to document an inability to re- quired to do so in an extremely limited
turn to the same level of business activity as an emergency requirement pursuant to sec-
tion 4(g) of the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go manner, with only outdoor dining or
such business was operating at before Feb- curbside-only pickup at retail stores.
ruary 15, 2020, due to compliance with re- Act of 2010 (2 U.S.C. 933(g)).
(b) DESIGNATION IN SENATE.—In the Senate, Those restrictions mean small busi-
quirements established or guidance issued by
the Secretary of Health and Human Services,
this Act is designated as an emergency re- nesses continue to have a tough road
quirement pursuant to section 4112(a) of H. ahead, and they need flexibility in how
the Director of the Centers for Disease Con-
Con. Res. 71 (115th Congress), the concurrent they use this emergency capital. This
trol and Prevention, or the Occupational
resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018. provision will give them that.
Safety and Health Administration during the
period beginning on March 1, 2020, and end- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The bill triples the current 8-week
ing December 31, 2020, related to the mainte- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from period in which businesses must use
nance of standards for sanitation, social New York (Ms. VELÁZQUEZ) and the funds to be eligible for forgiveness to 24
distancing, or any other worker or customer gentleman from Ohio (Mr. CHABOT) weeks. That will help ensure businesses
safety requirement related to COVID–19. each will control 20 minutes. have more room to breathe, even in
‘‘(8) LIMITATION ON FORGIVENESS.—To re- The Chair recognizes the gentle-
ceive loan forgiveness under this section, an places where reopening of the economy
eligible recipient shall use at least 60 percent
woman from New York. happens more slowly.
of the covered loan amount for payroll costs, GENERAL LEAVE Second, we must extend the program
and may use up to 40 percent of such amount Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask through the end of the year. The unpre-
for any payment of interest on any covered unanimous consent that all Members dictable spread of the virus, shortage of
mortgage obligation (which shall not include may have 5 legislative days in which to widespread testing, and lack of a vac-
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any prepayment of or payment of principal revise and extend their remarks and in- cine mean that we do not know exactly
on a covered mortgage obligation), any pay- clude extraneous material on the meas- when the small business sector will
ment on any covered rent obligation, or any
ure under consideration. fully reopen and, when it does, how the
covered utility payment.’’; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ‘‘new normal’’ will look.
subsection: objection to the request of the gentle- The bill addresses a challenge that
‘‘(l) APPLICATION TO CERTAIN ELIGIBLE RE- woman from New York? was created when the first set of guide-
CIPIENTS.—An eligible recipient that received There was no objection. lines were issued. We have heard you
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H2334 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
loud and clear. Today’s legislation days. That is why we are here today, to Fifth, the bill also codifies the rehire
strikes a balance between protecting fix some of the unintended con- flexibility provision. So as long as a
workers by guaranteeing loans are used sequences. good-faith offer to return to work is
for payroll, with the need to recognize For example, when we crafted the provided to a recently laid off worker,
that many independent restaurants original CARES Act back in March, the the business will satisfy the head count
face difficulty paying rent and utili- covered period was defined as 8 weeks. requirements.
ties. The true emergency period has evolved This safe harbor provision attempts
The new 60/40 ratio makes certain a over time. This bill begins to address to address the challenges many small
business can remain open, weather the that. businesses have had getting some em-
crisis, continue employing workers, To fix the miscalculation in how long ployees to return to work with the $600
and keep serving their local commu- this pandemic would last, this bill ex- Federal unemployment check per week
nities. Congress must revamp this pro- tends the 8-week original covered pe- on top of the State unemployment
gram to make it more accessible for riod to 24 weeks and creates an option checks which they are also receiving.
small employers to weather the uncer- allowing businesses that want to stay Finally, the bill establishes a new
tainty ahead. within the original 8-week window to safe harbor to account for businesses
We simply do not know if there will do so. This promotes greater flexibility that are required by civil authority to
be another wave of infections or addi- for small businesses to decide when it open only at 50 percent capacity. This
tional lockdowns. This bill provides is best to start spending their PPP ensures that businesses that have no
certainty to employers afraid to use loan. choice but to run at half capacity are
their loan proceeds or reluctant to It is important to remember that not left behind by their counterparts
apply to the program by providing this change isn’t as simple as moving a who have the ability to operate fully.
much-needed flexibility. few dates around. There are a lot of un- So it is a fairness issue.
I applaud my colleagues, Mr. PHIL- intended consequences that we need to Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to
LIPS and Mr. ROY, for working together account for because more than 4 mil- support this much-needed bipartisan
in a bipartisan manner to craft com- lion loans have already gone through bill that provides real solutions to
monsense solutions for America’s small the program in the amount of half a American small businesses facing this
businesses. I thank Ranking Member trillion dollars. very difficult situation.
CHABOT for his assistance in crafting First, the original CARES Act allows b 1015
this bipartisan measure. principal, interest, and fees to be de- Mr. Speaker, I again want to thank
I urge all my colleagues to vote ferred for between 6 and 12 months. The the chairwoman for working on this on
‘‘yes,’’ and I reserve the balance of my administration adjusted this deferment a bipartisan basis.
time. period to just 6 months through guid- This flexibility allows America’s
Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield ance. small businesses to go a long way to
myself such time as I may consume. This deferment time period needed to addressing many of the concerns that
Unlike the previous bill, I am happy be shifted to ensure a business knows we heard time and time again from
to say that I agree with the chair- its loan forgiveness amount before its small businesses all across the country.
woman, and I rise in strong support of deferment period concludes. This bill They need to have the flexibility to
H.R. 7010, the Paycheck Protection accomplishes that by extending the spend the money most efficiently so
Program Flexibility Act of 2020, as deferment window to end once the SBA that the businesses can actually stay
amended. makes the forgiveness payment to the afloat, make it through this pandemic,
I would, again, like to thank Chair- lender on the borrower’s behalf. and, most importantly, be able to keep
woman VELÁZQUEZ for conducting this Second, the bill amends the 75/25 rule as many of their employees on the pay-
process in such a bipartisan manner. It which was inserted into the PPP by the roll so that they are able to support
is more important than ever to main- administration through guidance to re- their families as possible.
tain our strong bilateral negotiations quire 75 percent of the loan to be used Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my col-
as we continue to combat the spread of on payroll costs and 25 percent to be leagues to support this legislation on
COVID–19 and its devastating, abso- used on mortgage interest, rent, and both sides of the aisle, and I reserve
lutely devastating, effect on our econ- utilities. So that is what the previous the balance of my time.
omy, especially our small businesses in rule called for, 75/25. Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
that economy. This bill replaced that with a 60/40 yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from
Over the past 3 months, I have been split to, again, give small businesses Minnesota (Mr. PHILLIPS).
in contact with literally thousands of greater flexibility as to how to best Mr. PHILLIPS. Mr. Speaker, I thank
small businesses, not only in my home- utilize their PPP funds. Representative VELÁZQUEZ; Ranking
town of Cincinnati, but across the Third, the bill extends the 2-year ma- Member CHABOT; my colleague, Mr.
country. I have joined dozens of con- turity of the loan to a 5-year maturity ROY from Texas, who has spent a lot of
ference calls with my congressional for new loans to help small businesses time in the political foxhole with me
colleagues and with their constituents struggling to make their payments in a from the very beginning of this initia-
and mine all the way from the State of weakened economy. Loans already tive; and all who have helped get the
Washington to the State of Florida, processed remain at the 2-year matu- Paycheck Protection Program Flexi-
and just about everywhere in between. rity rate so that there is no retro- bility Act to the floor.
There has been broad consensus dur- activity in this provision. But I want to spend my time today
ing those interactions that the PPP The bill makes clear that small busi- letting my constituents speak for
program has served as a lifeline for nesses and lenders are free to negotiate themselves. For more than 43 years,
small businesses and their employees, modifications in the maturity terms if Minnesotans have celebrated birthdays
many of whom have been shut down they both agree. Again, both have to and Little League wins over burgers
through no fault of their own. agree, both the borrower or the small and cheese curds at Lions Tap, a fam-
By and large, it would be hard to business and the lender. ily-owned restaurant in Eden Prairie,
argue against the fact that the PPP Fourth, the bill allows businesses Minnesota, until COVID–19 changed ev-
program has, for the most part, been that receive PPP loan forgiveness to erything. My team spoke with Bert,
successful. Over 4 million small busi- also receive their employer payroll tax owner of Lions Tap, and when we asked
nesses have received a PPP loan thus deferment. for feedback about his experience with
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
far, allowing them to hang on as the And that was a big issue. Many of the the Payroll Protection Program, he
COVID–19 pandemic spread across our small businesses were concerned that said this: ‘‘We definitely need the PPP.
Nation. they were losing one of the advantages The problem is that because our busi-
Of course, there have been some that was in the original PPP program ness is a restaurant, we are not able to
shortcomings, some unintended con- in the CARES Act. So this is back in. open it up fully where we could hire
sequences. That will happen when you They will be able to take that business our entire staff back under the condi-
do 6 months of legislative work in 6 deduction from their taxes. tions of the loan. It is imperative that
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2335
we are allowed forgiveness for expenses taurant employees. Or just take it talking about the barbershops, the hair
beyond the original 8-week period. We from Bert, the owner of Lions Tap, who salons, the live music venues, and the
also need to loosen up the restrictions said that the heartbeat of America is hotels that are struggling.
of nonpayroll expenses beyond the 25 small business, and we need your help I just talked to a hotel operator an
percent. The complexities of balancing to survive. hour ago, just before coming down here
staying open or closing will be deter- Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I want to to the floor, who is struggling and said:
mined by what the government will be commend and thank the gentleman Look, I can’t make it 8 weeks. I can’t
able to change on the PPP in this bill.’’ from Texas (Mr. ROY) and the gen- stay alive. I don’t have enough heads
Bert is not alone. On a Zoom call last tleman from Minnesota (Mr. PHILLIPS) on the pillows. We are working toward
month, a barber who rents a chair in a for working together in a bipartisan reopening.
Brooklyn Park barber salon told me manner on this legislation. These are real businesses with real
exactly the same thing. I also talked Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the employees and real lives tied up into
with Mike, who owns a few hotels in gentleman from Texas (Mr. ROY). this who are struggling.
Minnesota and is being forced to make Mr. ROY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the The thing is, the PPP program has
lose-lose decisions about how to pay chairwoman and the ranking member been a great success in getting $650 bil-
his employees and his mortgage while for their leadership. I really want to lion out the door in a matter of weeks
their rooms sit empty. give a strong statement of support and to help almost 4 million businesses, as
Mike said this: ‘‘The government thanks to my colleague, DEAN PHIL- has been noted on the floor, and that is
stepped in with the Paycheck Protec- LIPS, for the way in which our offices awesome. That is fantastic. We should
tion Program, but it was a one-size- have worked together and in which he be proud of that. But as we work to get
fits-all approach that didn’t really help and I have worked together on this. I America open again, we have to be
industries like hospitality. We could have nothing but positive things to say mindful of the fact that times are con-
pay our employees but not our mort- about him, and I look forward to work- tinuing to move on. These businesses
gages. The Paycheck Protection Flexi- ing on other measures to get, frankly, are struggling, and they can’t meet
bility Act will do for small businesses this body back to the work of the some of these restrictions and dead-
what the PPP could not.’’ American people and to make Congress lines.
John from Maple Grove, who owns a work again, to use a phrase that might I will note a little moment of par-
handful of beloved wood-fired pizza be interesting. But we need to make tisanship perhaps, in that I believe the
joints in Minnesota, is also feeling the Congress work again for the American unemployment insurance provision
heat from a lengthening crisis. He told people. that was adopted is actually the root of
me: ‘‘We are very appreciative of the This is a simple bill. It is a seven- the problem because you can’t pay peo-
PPP loan we received but would have page bill. We need more of that, more ple more not to work than to work and
no way to qualify for any material for- single-subject bills that we can wrap then expect businesses to go back and
giveness given the impossibility of re- our hands around and move through rehire people to meet the requirements
hiring our entire workforce while our the Chamber in ways that will impact we put in the bill to meet and hold peo-
stores are closed. If the loan is not for- American people’s lives without things ple in employment in the businesses.
given, we do not foresee our business being decided by a handful of people in We need to address that. I hope that as
returning to any meaningful positive back rooms that cost trillions of dol- a body we will not extend that when it
cash flow until a vaccine is developed lars and have 2,000 and 3,000 pages. expires in July. This is something I
or the virus impact weakens and would That is a statement, frankly, on both think is fundamentally important.
likely not have funds to repay any loan sides of the aisle. We need to find a way The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
principal in that time.’’ to work together, to have simple ap- time of the gentleman has expired.
Justin, who has a small gym in proaches to do the work of the Amer- Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield
Chanhassen, and Ryan, who owns ican people. the gentleman from Texas an addi-
Frenchies nail salon, are reporting the This piece of legislation, in par- tional 30 seconds.
exact same problems. The outpouring ticular, is important to me because I Mr. ROY. Mr. Speaker, one thing I
of feedback has been as clear as it has represent about 2,300 restaurants and want to point out here is that the
been enormous. about 53,000 employees who work there ranking member and the chair have
Mr. Speaker, today is not about us. It in central Texas. It is the most in gone through the provisions in the bill.
is not about which side secures the big- Texas. It has to be pretty high up na- This is an important vote because we
gest win or who gets the credit. It is tionwide. Austin, Texas, and San Anto- have to do this to help small busi-
about delivering the relief that small nio, Texas, both have a great number nesses, but it is an important vote be-
business owners across Minnesota and of live music venues, as they are fa- cause I think it gets back to the heart
this Nation are asking for. It is about mously known, and my wife and I have of simple legislating and working to-
doing our job. availed ourselves of them over our gether to accomplish things.
At its core, representation begins lives. Let’s provide the flexibility for busi-
with listening, and these stories paint In fact, my courtship of my wife nesses. Let’s make sure that we let
a very clear picture. Our small business began in a lot of these places. Our first America open. But let’s work together
owners, the institutions of our Main date was at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q in Austin, to solve the problems of the American
Streets and the glue of our commu- Texas, a great institution for a Willie people together, like Mr. PHILLIPS and
nities, are asking us to take action to Nelson concert. We were at I did. I am proud to cosponsor this with
solve problems and to engage in some Threadgill’s for our rehearsal dinner in him.
good old-fashioned teamwork. South Austin, Texas, with live music. Mr. Speaker, I hope the Senate will
I am grateful to my colleague, Mr. I represent the Broken Spoke. I rep- take this up and move it expeditiously
CHIP ROY from Texas, for joining me in resent Luckenbach, Texas, if you re- so that we can help businesses this
that very spirit as the coauthor of this member the famous song. I represent a week. There is no reason to delay that.
bill and to the growing coalition of number of great restaurants in San An- Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
support that we built around the Pay- tonio. The Cortez family has a bunch of would like to inquire of the Chair how
check Protection Flexibility Act. This restaurants in San Antonio. Many of much time is remaining on each side.
bill will help people in the ways that you, if you have been on the River The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen-
they need, and we have not a moment Walk or have been in downtown San tlewoman from New York has 111⁄2 min-
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
to lose. Antonio, would have experienced these utes remaining. The gentleman from
Mr. Speaker, if you don’t want to places. They are a part of the culture Ohio has 10 minutes remaining.
take my word for it, just listen to the of our lives, our fabric of what we do Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
millions of our country’s shopkeepers, every day when we visit with our fami- yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from
innovators, entrepreneurs, and small lies and our communities. New Hampshire (Mr. PAPPAS).
business owners all around the coun- We need to save these great institu- Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I thank
try. Or listen to our 11 million res- tions and not just restaurants. I am the chairwoman for yielding.
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H2336 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Mr. Speaker, while the Paycheck to the very bottom. We can’t let that Protection Program, in helping to per-
Protection Program has provided a happen, no way. fect this program that is an incredible
lifeline to small businesses, funda- The bipartisan Problem Solvers Cau- lifeline to small businesses and, impor-
mental changes must be made to meet cus endorsed this flexibility bill. It is tantly, Mr. Speaker, to the employees.
the ongoing needs of our Main Street one that we need to get done. I hope Millions and millions of businesses,
economy. that the Senate can take what we do billions of dollars in loans in a program
I am thankful to have heard from today and pass it before the end of the that didn’t even exist. Within 1 week,
hundreds of local business leaders in week. We need to provide that relief to they stood this program up, and within
my district who have helped identify our small businesses and the millions 2 weeks, Mr. Speaker, handed out more
critical shortcomings in the PPP. of employees that it impacts. money than the SBA had done over the
RoseAnn in Laconia tells us her res- Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I previous 14 years. It is absolutely re-
taurant’s sales are down 90 percent, yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from markable what Treasury and SBA have
and she needs more time than 8 weeks Colorado (Mr. NEGUSE). done with this program.
to ramp up safely. Mr. NEGUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise And, as I said, the work that Mr. ROY
David from Portsmouth says his today in support of the bills before the and Mr. PHILLIPS have done to come to-
overhead costs are much higher than House. gether on a bipartisan basis to help to
the payroll at his new business, and he In Colorado, our small businesses are fix, to provide flexibility to businesses,
needs more flexibility in how he can struggling under these unprecedented to give them more time, to give them
spend down the loan. economic circumstances. From the more flexibility on the use of funds, to
Hillary from Goffstown won’t begin mom-and-pop taverns in Gilpin County ensure that these businesses aren’t just
to make up for lost sales in her wed- and Winter Park; the restaurants in open for 8 weeks but are truly sustain-
ding business until next year. A longer Loveland, Fort Collins, and Boulder; able businesses that can continue pro-
term will give her a more stable finan- Main Street businesses in Nederland viding employment to millions and
cial footing. and Breckenridge; and the many Colo- millions of Americans for years to
There are millions of stories like rado businesses that rely on outdoor come.
these across the country. recreation and ski season, in par- Now, Mr. Speaker, I want to pivot.
I want to thank my colleagues for The other legislation, the TRUTH Act,
ticular, they never could have planned
coming together on a bipartisan basis Mr. Speaker, looking at the compari-
for this pandemic. We cannot expect
to understand the need that is out son of numbers, here we are giving out
them to weather this crisis alone.
there and helping to meet it with this billions of dollars and millions of
The Payroll Protection Program has
comprehensive bill that is going to pro- loans, looking at the Economic Injury
provided critical funds to keep many of
vide a lifeline to our local businesses. Disaster Loan Program, the EIDL loan
these businesses afloat and workers
The fixes in this Paycheck Protection program. This program is a complete
employed. But as we have heard from
Flexibility Act will allow our small disaster itself. The program is not get-
both sides of the aisle today, many
businesses and their dedicated employ- ting money out the door. Whoever is
fixes are needed, and that is what we
ees to continue to survive. Let’s pass running this program needs to be re-
are here today to do.
this bipartisan bill today for our work- placed.
We must ensure that loan forgiveness Look at the statistics. They brought
ers, for our small businesses, and cer- periods are extended so that small in an outside contractor to do the ad-
tainly for our future. businesses are not on the hook for this vances. The advances are taking off,
Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 money while their doors remain shut. but the loans, themselves, are not. We
minutes to the gentleman from Michi- We must extend the program past June are not offering operating expenses and
gan (Mr. UPTON). 30 as so many of our businesses face in- other needed loans to these small busi-
Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I want to creased uncertainty and as our country nesses.
particularly thank Mr. PHILLIPS and faces uncertainty about what the fu- This bill doesn’t fix a single problem
Mr. ROY for working together on this ture holds in the coming months. We that is out there that is delaying, that
important legislation. must expand access and transparency is preventing this program from actu-
When the President signed the Pay- and prioritize our veteran-owned and ally providing operating expense assist-
check Protection Program nearly 2 economically disadvantaged busi- ance to these small businesses.
months ago, it provided a real lifeline nesses. Mr. Speaker, this bill is a complete
to our small businesses, without a At the end of the day, we must con- whiff. I urge that we pull back the
doubt. We have had some pretty rough tinue to support our local small busi- TRUTH Act. Rescind it. Let’s sit back
seas, a typhoon. But at the end of the nesses because they are the lifeblood of down again and work together on a bi-
day, after 8 weeks, Mr. Speaker, if you our communities, for the sake of our partisan basis, as we have done on this
were a small business and you allo- families, our local economies, and our bill, on the PPP Flex bill, and provide
cated 75 percent of the money that you future. true solutions to where the Economic
received as that loan for employees’ Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairwoman Injury Disaster Loan Program can help
salaries, healthcare, et cetera, that for her strong leadership over the these small businesses, can truly pro-
loan would become a grant; and the re- course of this pandemic and my fresh- vide a hand up.
sponse was overwhelming. A $250 bil- man colleague, Representative PHIL- Mr. Speaker, I urge rejection of that
lion program was exhausted after 10 LIPS, for his leadership in bringing this bill.
days. bill forward. I am proud to support it. Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I
After we came back and did another Let’s get this done for small businesses yield 1 minute to the gentleman from
job, we doubled down. We gave it an- in Colorado and across America. New Jersey (Mr. GOTTHEIMER).
other $310 billion on top of that. Unbe- Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I
lievable. b 1030 thank the chairwoman for her excel-
As much as all of us wanted this Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 lent leadership. I thank Mr. ROY for his
nightmare to end by Easter, we are minutes to the gentleman from Lou- great bipartisan work and my dear
now past Memorial Day, and those isiana (Mr. GRAVES). friend, colleague, and fellow problem
small businesses are still not open. Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. solver, DEAN PHILLIPS, for his remark-
Many of them are still shuttered, and Speaker, I thank the gentleman from able leadership on this important piece
they can’t possibly meet that 75 per- Ohio (Mr. CHABOT) for his hard work; of legislation. He did it the way he be-
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
cent standard that their lender, their and I thank the chairwoman, as well, lieves we all should govern, and that is
community bank, or their credit union for working together in a bipartisan working across the aisle. I am grateful
offered them to be able to convert that manner. for what he did on the Paycheck Pro-
loan to a grant. But most importantly, I thank the tection Flexibility Act, which was sup-
So, without the changes in this bi- gentleman from Texas (Mr. ROY), my ported by the Problem Solvers Caucus,
partisan bill, that program instead will friend, for working together, for identi- 50 strong—25 Democrats and 25 Repub-
be an anchor that will take them down fying the problems with the Paycheck licans.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2337
Mr. Speaker, I have heard over and woman VELÁZQUEZ and the ranking ents—that many businesses have not
over again from businesses in my com- member, and I thank them for their been able to reopen or access the loans
munity in northern New Jersey that leadership. amidst many various State govern-
they are so grateful for the PPP Loan Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I ment-mandated shutdowns, so addi-
Forgiveness Program and all of the yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman tional time and flexibility to use the
jobs and businesses it helps protect. from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE). PPP funds will help them meet payroll
But they need more flexibility with the Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I and remain in operation as we safely
formula and timeframe. They need thank the chairwoman for her leader- and responsibly reopen our economy.
more time with the loan and more ship with the ranking member, Mr. Today’s Paycheck Protection Pro-
flexibility on how to spend it, from sal- PHILLIPS and Mr. ROY. gram Flexibility Act will enact effec-
aries to rent. Mr. Speaker, I stand in strong sup- tive reforms which were created with
Mr. Speaker, I am proud that this bi- port because 100,000 people are dead. input from small businesses. Again, I
partisan legislation does exactly that: Small businesses are living in the strongly commend the bill’s sponsors
helps the 131,000 small businesses in midst of those communities of devasta- for engaging in this way.
New Jersey that have been helped by tion, but they are trying to keep their Mr. Speaker, families are the heart of
the PPP Loan Forgiveness Program. doors open so they can help their fel- our communities. Small businesses are
And I am equally grateful for the bi- low citizens. the backbones of our economy. Our
partisan TRUTH Act, which demands I am grateful that we will allow an families and our small businesses, with
more transparency and accountability extended period of time, 24 weeks, for our support, will make it through this
for every single dollar that is loaned allowing for forgiveness. I am very crisis and drive the next great Amer-
out from the Small Business Adminis- grateful we have extended the date, for ican comeback.
tration to our businesses. I am glad extending the program to December 31, Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge a ‘‘yes’’
that that legislation will pass here and, of course, the payment, the loan vote on this very important bill.
later today and that we will know period to 5 years. Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, may I in-
where all the loans have gone. I know the mom-and-pop barbershops quire how much time is remaining.
Mr. Speaker, New Jersey’s economy, and cosmetology shops and nail shops The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen-
including all of our small businesses, and restaurants; they are crying out to tleman from Ohio has 3 minutes re-
want to make sure their businesses can survive. Some of their very workers maining.
stay open at the end of this pandemic. have died. They are taking care of fam- Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield
They want to keep their workers. They ilies. And so to ensure the full access myself such time as I may consume.
want to keep giving back to our com- to payroll tax deferment for business Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle-
munities. They want to grow their tax, that takes PPP loans. woman from New York (Ms.
businesses and give back to our great In addition, I support the TRUTH Act VELÁZQUEZ) for her cooperation and
State. But they need our help. This bill because the money that we give must Mr. ROY and Mr. PHILLIPS, as well, for
does that, and I am hoping the Senate be used right, and transparency on who working together in a bipartisan man-
acts quickly to take it up. gets the loans is important. ner on this important legislation.
Mr. Speaker, this further relief for COVID–19, the coronavirus, has had a
Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2
small businesses is well placed because tremendous impact, an adverse impact
minutes to the gentleman from Ten-
they are the anchor of the economy. on our Nation, particularly on our Na-
nessee (Mr. BURCHETT), a very impor-
I say to Houston small businesses:
tant member of the Committee on tion’s economy, particularly on Amer-
We are coming to help you. We will be
Small Business. ica’s small businesses. Many of them,
speaking to you this week.
Mr. BURCHETT. Mr. Speaker, I unfortunately, have had to shut down
Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and
thank the gentleman for yielding. during this time.
we should move this forward as quickly
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to encour- When we originally passed the
as possible. They are the anchor of the
age my colleagues to vote in favor of CARES Act, which included the Pay-
economy of this Nation.
the H.R. 7010, the Paycheck Protection Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 check Protection Program—or now it
Program Flexibility Act. minutes to the gentleman from Penn- has become so popular, now it is PPP.
America’s economic recovery from sylvania (Mr. MEUSER). It is known by that by millions of
the coronavirus pandemic depends on Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I thank small businesses all across the country.
getting individuals comfortable with the gentleman from Ohio very much. We didn’t know exactly how long the
safely going back to workplaces, shops, Mr. Speaker, the Paycheck Protec- pandemic would last. We still don’t
and restaurants. H.R. 7010 represents a tion Program, as we have been hearing, know, for that matter. So 8 weeks, for
continued commitment to providing has provided critical support to small example, was the period of time that
economic assistance to America’s businesses across the country during determined the payouts and whether
small businesses while our economy this crisis. the loan would be forgiven or not,
works towards this goal. The intent of the PPP was to prevent whether in fact it would be a grant,
Throughout east Tennessee, the Pay- layoffs, maintain certainty for work- whether these small businesses would
check Protection Program is ensuring ers, and help businesses weather the have to pay it back.
employers can pay their workers and challenges posed by the coronavirus As it turned out, 8 weeks, alone, isn’t
cover operating expenses. H.R. 7010 will pandemic. Thanks to President a sufficient period of time for many
allow greater flexibility for this relief Trump’s Treasury Department and small businesses. This legislation ex-
by extending the PPP loan forgiveness other leaders in this body, whom I tends that to 24 weeks, at the option of
period from 8 to 24 weeks, eliminating commend, the program’s results were the borrower. So this will allow many
duplicative program requirements, and in line with the program’s intent. small businesses all across the country
providing small businesses with addi- Thanks, as well, to the SBA and to see what benefits them the most so
tional time to pay back loans as they many community banks. Over 4.5 mil- they can survive, so they can keep
get back on their feet. lion small businesses have been ap- their employees employed so they can
Members of the Committee on Small proved for loans through the PPP, and support their families. So that is an
Business have a strong reputation of over $600 billion in loans have been important item that is in this legisla-
reaching across the aisle to work to- processed. tion.
gether, and I applaud the efforts of Mr. The PPP has administered over In addition, changing the 75/25 rule to
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ROY and Mr. PHILLIPS to craft clean 155,000 loans, totaling $25 billion in 60/40, again, is going to give these busi-
legislation that meets the needs of Pennsylvania alone. Nationwide, near- nesses the flexibility that they need.
small businesses. ly 65 percent of these loans have been How long do small businesses have to
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support under $50,000—remarkable to see re- pay it back? Well, those who have al-
this bill that delivers results for Amer- sults of a bill in line with its intent. ready taken out the loans, 2 years. For
ica’s small businesses during this dif- However, we all do know—and we new loans taken out from here on—and
ficult time. It is great to see Chair- have been hearing from our constitu- there is over $100 billion left in the
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H2338 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
fund, so there will be many small busi- bipartisan manner. I always say, when continue to call for the minimum maturity on
nesses that still get loans—the period we deal with small business issues, Paycheck Protection Program loans to be ex-
will be 24 weeks. Now, by the time the there is no Democratic or Republican tended for all Paycheck Protection Program
Senate gets ahold of this, it is always approach. Those are American issues, borrowers.
possible that that may be com- particularly as they relate to our econ- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
promised, but at this point, it is 24 omy. question is on the motion offered by
weeks in this particular piece of legis- Mr. Speaker, in that vein, I also the gentlewoman from New York (Ms.
lation. thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. VELÁZQUEZ) that the House suspend the
But I think one of the important ROY) and the gentleman from Min- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 7010, as
things to remember is that the bor- nesota (Mr. PHILLIPS) for the great amended.
rower and the lender can get together work that they did and for the bipar- The question was taken.
and mutually agree, if they want to tisan spirit in which they brought this The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the
agree, if they don’t necessarily fall into bill to the floor. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being
the two categories that I just men- Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge a vote in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
tioned. So there is some flexibility for in support of the legislation, and I Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, on
them to negotiate there as well. And yield back the balance of my time. that I demand the yeas and nays.
there are other items, as we have al- Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
ready discussed. support of this legislation to provide a critical ant to section 3 of House Resolution
But the important thing is this will source of aid to small businesses and non- 965, the yeas and nays are ordered.
give America’s small businesses the profits during the COVID–19 pandemic. While Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, fur-
flexibility to ensure that they at least the Paycheck Protection Program was estab- ther proceedings on this question will
have a chance to survive. And I know lished as an eight-week program, it was clear be postponed.
in my district in Cincinnati, and dis- from the start that the economic impact of the
pandemic would last far longer. I am proud f
tricts all over the country, their very
survival is at issue here. that the House addressed this issue by ex- b 1045
The PPP program—and it is a lot of panding the covered period to 24 weeks in the
money, as was mentioned: $350 billion Heroes Act earlier this month, and I am glad SMALL BUSINESS TRANSPARENCY
and another $310 billion, so around $660 this bill also includes a 24-week extension. AND REPORTING FOR THE
billion in this program going out all The extended timeline will give borrowers the UNDERBANKED AND TAXPAYERS
over the country to these small busi- flexibility to spread out the loan proceeds over AT HOME ACT
nesses that are the backbone of the the full course of the crisis, and in a manner The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
American economy. About half the that is best for their small business or non- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro-
people who work in America work for profit. ceedings will resume on the motion to
one of these small businesses. So this The legislation also takes action to change suspend the rules and pass the bill
will help them to survive. the harmful ‘‘75/25’’ percent rule that the Small (H.R. 6782) to require the Adminis-
Thank goodness the House of Rep- Business Administration established to limit trator of the Small Business Adminis-
resentatives was able to work together the use of Paycheck Protection Program loan tration to submit a report on recipi-
in a bipartisan manner to come to this proceeds for nonpayroll expenses to 25 per- ents of assistance under the paycheck
point today where this legislation will cent. While increasing the current limitation on protection program and the economic
likely pass in a few minutes. the use of loan proceeds for nonpayroll ex- injury disaster loan program, and for
Mr. Speaker, I again thank the chair- penses from 25 percent to 40 percent will other purposes, as amended, on which
woman, and I yield back the balance of allow many small businesses to apply for the the yeas and nays were ordered.
my time. program, I am disappointed that this legislation The Clerk read the title of the bill.
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I falls short of the Heroes Act and fails to elimi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
yield myself such time as I may con- nate the rule. Congress intended for the Pay- question is on the motion offered by
sume. check Protection Program to be a critical re- the gentlewoman from New York (Ms.
Mr. Speaker, I continuously hear source for all small businesses impacted by VELÁZQUEZ) that the House suspend the
from small businesses across the coun- the pandemic. We must make sure that the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
try about the uncertainty they are fac- program will be there and workable for micro- The vote was taken by electronic de-
ing and when they will be able to fully businesses in high rent areas like New York vice, and there were—yeas 269, nays
reopen. In the face of that uncertainty, City. Microbusinesses—such as ‘‘mom and 147, not voting 15, as follows:
small businesses need flexibility with pop’’ shops and corner stores—are the life- [Roll No. 113]
these loans. blood of our communities. I will continue work-
YEAS—269
This bill takes an important step in ing to ensure that the small business assist-
Adams Castro (TX) Demings
providing that flexibility and making ance programs created in the CARES Act are Aguilar Chu, Judy DeSaulnier
the Paycheck Protection Program accessible and viable for the most vulnerable Allred Cicilline Deutch
work better for the millions of small small businesses. Axne Cisneros Diaz-Balart
businesses across the country that are I am also disappointed that this legislation Bacon Clark (MA) Dingell
Barragán Clarke (NY) Doggett
trying to weather this storm. And was amended to remove language to retro- Bass Clay Doyle, Michael
since we do not know how long this actively establish a five-year minimum maturity Beatty Cleaver F.
storm will last, we must ensure small on Paycheck Protection Program loans for Bera Clyburn Engel
amounts not forgiven. While the CARES Act Beyer Cohen Escobar
businesses are able to take advantage Bishop (GA) Connolly Eshoo
of the program through the end of the allowed a maximum maturity of up to ten Blumenauer Cooper Espaillat
calendar year and to use the loan over years from when the borrower applied for the Blunt Rochester Correa Evans
the course of 24 weeks. This program is loan, the Small Business Administration limited Bonamici Costa Finkenauer
Boyle, Brendan Courtney Fitzpatrick
now a stronger onramp to full employ- the minimum maturity of the loans to two F. Cox (CA) Fletcher
ment for small employers to weather years just hours before financial institutions Brindisi Craig Fortenberry
this unprecedented economic and pub- began accepting Paycheck Protection Pro- Brooks (AL) Crenshaw Foster
gram loans. To address this issue, the Heroes Brown (MD) Crist Frankel
lic health crisis. Brownley (CA) Crow Fudge
I commend the Committee on Small Act established a minimum maturity on PPP Burchett Cuellar Gabbard
Business staff on both sides of the aisle loans of five years to enable borrowers to am- Bustos Cunningham Gaetz
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
for their dedication and hard work over ortize loans over a longer period of time, de- Butterfield Davids (KS) Gallagher
Calvert Davis (CA) Gallego
these last few months. I thank them creasing their monthly payments on any por- Carbajal Davis, Danny K. Garamendi
for their commitment to our Nation’s tion that is not forgiven. While this legislation Cárdenas Dean Garcı́a (IL)
small employers and their workers. also establishes a five-year minimum maturity Carson (IN) DeFazio Garcia (TX)
And I thank the ranking member, be- on Paycheck Protection Program loans, it fails Cartwright DeGette Golden
Case DeLauro Gomez
cause we have always, throughout the to make the change retroactive for the millions Casten (IL) DelBene Gonzalez (TX)
history of the committee, worked in a that have already received their loans. I will Castor (FL) Delgado Gottheimer
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2339
Green, Al (TX) Maloney, Sean Schakowsky Rodgers (WA) Stauber Watkins sions related to the forgiveness of loans
Grijalva Massie Schiff Roe, David P. Stivers Weber (TX)
Grothman Matsui Schneider Rogers (AL) Taylor Webster (FL)
under the paycheck protection pro-
Haaland McAdams Schrader Rogers (KY) Thompson (PA) Wenstrup gram, to allow recipients of loan for-
Harder (CA) McBath Schrier Rose, John W. Thornberry Westerman giveness under the paycheck protection
Hastings McCaul Schweikert Rouzer Tiffany Williams program to defer payroll taxes, and for
Hayes McClintock Scott (VA) Scalise Timmons Wilson (SC)
Heck McCollum Scott, Austin Tipton Wittman other purposes, as amended, on which
Scott, David
Herrera Beutler McEachin Serrano Shimkus Turner Womack the yeas and nays were ordered.
Higgins (NY) McGovern Simpson Walberg Woodall
Sewell (AL)
Smith (MO) Walker Wright
The Clerk read the title of the bill.
Himes McNerney Shalala
Horn, Kendra S. Meeks Sherman
Smith (NE) Walorski Yoho The SPEAKER pro tempore. The
Horsford Meng
Sherrill
Spano Waltz Zeldin question is on the motion offered by
Houlahan Mooney (WV) the gentlewoman from New York (Ms.
Sires NOT VOTING—15
Hoyer Moore
Huffman Morelle
Slotkin
Abraham Granger Mfume VELÁZQUEZ) that the House suspend the
Huizenga Moulton Smith (NJ) rules and pass the bill, as amended.
Brooks (IN) Hollingsworth Rooney (FL)
Hurd (TX) Mucarsel-Powell Smith (WA) Buchanan LaHood Roybal-Allard
Jackson Lee Murphy (FL) Smucker The vote was taken by electronic de-
Carter (TX) Marchant Sensenbrenner
Jayapal Nadler Soto Crawford McHenry Young vice, and there were—yeas 417, nays 1,
Jeffries Napolitano Spanberger not voting 13, as follows:
Johnson (GA) Neal Speier b 1159
Johnson (TX) Neguse Stanton [Roll No. 114]
Joyce (OH) Newhouse Stefanik Messrs. DUNCAN, HUDSON, RICE of
YEAS—417
Kaptur Norcross Steil South Carolina, and WOODALL
Katko O’Halleran Steube changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to Adams Cooper Green, Al (TX)
Keating Ocasio-Cortez Stevens Aderholt Correa Griffith
‘‘nay.’’ Aguilar Costa Grijalva
Kelly (IL) Omar Stewart
Kennedy Pallone Suozzi
Mr. BACON, Ms. HERRERA Allen Courtney Grothman
Khanna Panetta BEUTLER, and Mr. ROY changed their Allred Cox (CA) Guest
Swalwell (CA)
Amash Craig Guthrie
Kildee Pappas Takano vote from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Amodei Crenshaw Haaland
Kilmer Pascrell Thompson (CA)
Kim Payne
So (two-thirds not being in the af- Armstrong Crist Hagedorn
Thompson (MS)
Kind Pelosi Titus
firmative) the motion was rejected. Arrington Crow Harder (CA)
Kinzinger Perlmutter The result of the vote was announced Axne Cuellar Harris
Tlaib Babin Cunningham Hartzler
Kirkpatrick Perry Tonko as above recorded.
Krishnamoorthi Peters Bacon Curtis Hastings
Kuster (NH) Peterson
Torres (CA) Stated for: Baird Davids (KS) Hayes
Torres Small Mr. YOUNG. Madam Speaker, I was unable Balderson Davidson (OH) Heck
Lamb Phillips
(NM) Banks Davis (CA) Hern, Kevin
Langevin Pingree
Trahan to vote on May 28, 2020. Had I been present, Barr Davis, Danny K. Herrera Beutler
Larsen (WA) Pocan I would have voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall No. 113,
Trone Barragán Davis, Rodney Hice (GA)
Larson (CT) Porter
Lawrence Posey
Underwood on passage of H.R. 6782. Bass Dean Higgins (LA)
Upton Beatty DeFazio Higgins (NY)
Lawson (FL) Pressley MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE
Lee (CA) Price (NC) Van Drew Bera DeGette Hill (AR)
Vargas RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS Bergman DeLauro Himes
Lee (NV) Quigley
Levin (CA) Raskin Veasey Barragán Hastings Mucarsel-Powell Beyer DelBene Holding
Levin (MI) Reed Vela (Gallego) (Wasserman (Wasserman Biggs Delgado Horn, Kendra S.
Lewis Rice (NY) Velázquez Bass (Cicilline) Schultz) Schultz) Bilirakis Demings Horsford
Lieu, Ted Richmond Visclosky Bera (Aguilar) Heck (Kilmer) Napolitano Bishop (GA) DeSaulnier Houlahan
Lipinski Rose (NY) Wagner Blumenauer Horsford (Kildee) (Correa) Bishop (NC) DesJarlais Hoyer
Loebsack Rouda Walden (Beyer) Huffman (Kildee) Payne Bishop (UT) Deutch Hudson
Lofgren Roy Wasserman Bonamici Jayapal (Raskin) (Wasserman Blumenauer Diaz-Balart Huffman
Lowenthal Ruiz Schultz (Raskin) Johnson (TX) Blunt Rochester Dingell Huizenga
Schultz)
Lowey Ruppersberger Waters Brownley (CA) (Jeffries) Bonamici Doggett Hurd (TX)
Peters (Rice
Luján Rush Watson Coleman (Kuster (NH)) Khanna Bost Doyle, Michael Jackson Lee
(NY))
Luria Rutherford Welch Cárdenas (Sherman) Boyle, Brendan F. Jayapal
(Sánchez) Pingree (Kuster F. Duncan Jeffries
Lynch Ryan Wexton Kirkpatrick (NH))
Malinowski Sánchez Wild Chu, Judy (Gallego) Brady Dunn Johnson (GA)
(Takano) Pocan (Raskin) Brindisi Emmer Johnson (LA)
Maloney, Sarbanes Wilson (FL) Krishnamoorthi
Cisneros Porter (Wexton) Brooks (AL) Engel Johnson (OH)
Carolyn B. Scanlon Yarmuth (Brown (MD))
(Houlahan) Price (NC) Brown (MD) Escobar Johnson (SD)
Lawrence (Butterfield)
Cohen (Beyer) Brownley (CA) Eshoo Johnson (TX)
NAYS—147 (Kildee)
Ruiz (Aguilar) Buck Espaillat Jordan
Crist (Murphy
Lawson (FL)
Aderholt DesJarlais Jordan (FL)) Rush Bucshon Estes Joyce (OH)
(Evans)
Allen Duncan Joyce (PA) Davis (CA) (Wild) (Underwood) Budd Evans Joyce (PA)
Amash Dunn Levin (CA) Burchett
Keller DeSaulnier Schneider Ferguson Kaptur
Amodei Emmer (Kildee) Burgess
Kelly (MS) (Matsui) (Houlahan) Finkenauer Katko
Armstrong Estes Kelly (PA) Deutch (Rice Levin (MI) Bustos Fitzpatrick Keating
(Raskin) Schrader
Arrington Ferguson King (IA) (NY)) (O’Halleran) Butterfield Fleischmann Keller
Babin Fleischmann King (NY) Doggett (Raskin) Lewis (Kildee) Byrne Fletcher Kelly (IL)
Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Schrier (Kilmer)
Baird Flores Kustoff (TN) Escobar (Garcia Serrano (Meng) Calvert Flores Kelly (MS)
Balderson Foxx (NC) LaMalfa (TX)) Lipinski (Cooper) Carbajal Fortenberry Kelly (PA)
Lofgren (Boyle, Speier (Scanlon)
Banks Fulcher Lamborn Eshoo Cárdenas Foster Kennedy
Brendan F.) Suozzi (Panetta)
Barr Garcia (CA) Latta (Thompson Carson (IN) Foxx (NC) Khanna
Lowenthal Tlaib (Dingell)
Bergman Gianforte Lesko (CA)) Carter (GA) Frankel Kildee
Biggs Gibbs (Beyer) Tonko (Meng)
Long Foster (Beyer) Cartwright Fudge Kilmer
Bilirakis Gohmert Loudermilk Frankel (Kuster Lowey (Meng) Vargas (Keating) Case Fulcher Kim
Bishop (NC) Gonzalez (OH) Lucas (NH)) Maloney, Veasey (Beyer) Casten (IL) Gabbard Kind
Bishop (UT) Gooden Luetkemeyer Garamendi Carolyn B. Vela (Gallego) Castor (FL) Gaetz King (IA)
Bost Gosar Marshall (Sherman) (Rose (NY)) Watson Coleman Castro (TX) Gallagher King (NY)
Brady Graves (GA) Mast Gonzalez (TX) McEachin (Pallone) Chabot Gallego Kinzinger
Buck Graves (LA) McCarthy (Cuellar) (Wexton) Welch Cheney Garamendi Kirkpatrick
Bucshon Graves (MO) McKinley Grijalva (Clay) McNerney (McGovern) Chu, Judy Garcia (CA) Krishnamoorthi
Budd Green (TN) Meuser Harder (CA) (Raskin) Wilson (FL) Cicilline Garcı́a (IL) Kuster (NH)
Burgess Griffith Miller (Haaland) Moore (Beyer) (Hayes) Cisneros Garcia (TX) Kustoff (TN)
Byrne Guest Mitchell Clark (MA) Gianforte LaMalfa
Carter (GA) Guthrie Moolenaar
f Clarke (NY) Gibbs Lamb
Chabot Hagedorn Mullin PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM Clay Gohmert Lamborn
Cheney Harris Murphy (NC) Cleaver Golden Langevin
Cline Hartzler Norman FLEXIBILITY ACT OF 2020 Cline Gomez Larsen (WA)
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
Cloud Hern, Kevin Nunes The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. Cloud Gonzalez (OH) Larson (CT)
Cole Hice (GA) Olson Clyburn Gonzalez (TX) Latta
Collins (GA) Higgins (LA) Palazzo
JACKSON LEE). Pursuant to clause 8 of Cohen Gooden Lawrence
Comer Hill (AR) Palmer rule XX, further proceedings will re- Cole Gosar Lawson (FL)
Conaway Holding Pence sume on the motion to suspend the Collins (GA) Gottheimer Lee (CA)
Cook Hudson Reschenthaler rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7010) to Comer Graves (GA) Lee (NV)
Curtis Johnson (LA) Rice (SC) Conaway Graves (LA) Lesko
Davidson (OH) Johnson (OH) Riggleman amend the Small Business Act and the Connolly Graves (MO) Levin (CA)
Davis, Rodney Johnson (SD) Roby CARES Act to modify certain provi- Cook Green (TN) Levin (MI)
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H2340 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Lewis Pence Speier Roll Call Votes No. 113 and No. 114. Had I tion of an amicus curiae under section 103(i)(7),
Lieu, Ted Perlmutter Stanton or a proceeding in which an amicus curiae could
Lipinski Perry Stauber
been present to vote, I would have voted
‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 113 and ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall have been appointed pursuant to section
Loebsack Peters Stefanik
103(i)(2)(A).
Lofgren Peterson Steil No. 114. Ω2æ In section 302, strike subsections (a) and
Long Phillips Steube MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE (b) and insert the following:
Loudermilk Pingree Stevens
Lowenthal Pocan RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS (a) EXPANSION OF APPOINTMENT AUTHORITY.—
Stewart
Lowey Porter Stivers Barragán Hastings Mucarsel-Powell (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 103(i)(2) (50 U.S.C.
Lucas Posey Suozzi (Gallego) (Wasserman (Wasserman 1803(i)(2)) is amended—
Luetkemeyer Pressley Swalwell (CA) Bass (Cicilline) Schultz) Schultz) (A) by striking subparagraph (A) and insert-
Luján Price (NC) Takano Bera (Aguilar) Heck (Kilmer) Napolitano ing the following:
Luria Quigley Taylor Blumenauer Horsford (Kildee) (Correa) ‘‘(A) shall appoint one or more individuals
Lynch Raskin Thompson (CA) (Beyer) Huffman (Kildee) Payne who have been designated under paragraph (1),
Malinowski Reed Thompson (MS) Bonamici Jayapal (Raskin) (Wasserman
Maloney, Reschenthaler
not less than one of whom possesses privacy and
Thompson (PA) (Raskin) Johnson (TX) Schultz)
Carolyn B. Rice (NY) Brownley (CA) Peters (Rice
civil liberties expertise, unless the court finds
Thornberry (Jeffries)
Maloney, Sean Rice (SC) (Kuster (NH)) (NY)) that such a qualification is inappropriate, to
Tiffany Khanna
Marshall Richmond Timmons Cárdenas (Sherman) Pingree (Kuster serve as amicus curiae to assist the court in the
Mast Riggleman Tipton (Sánchez) (NH)) consideration of any application or motion for
Kirkpatrick
Matsui Roby Titus Chu, Judy Pocan (Raskin) an order or review that, in the opinion of the
(Gallego)
McAdams Rodgers (WA) Tlaib (Takano) Porter (Wexton) court—
Krishnamoorthi
McBath Roe, David P. Cisneros Price (NC)
Tonko (Brown (MD)) ‘‘(i) presents a novel or significant interpreta-
McCarthy Rogers (AL) (Houlahan) (Butterfield)
Torres (CA) Lawrence tion of the law, unless the court issues a finding
McCaul Rogers (KY) Cohen (Beyer) Roybal-Allard
Torres Small (Kildee) that such appointment is not appropriate;
McClintock Rose (NY) Crist (Murphy (Sánchez)
(NM) Lawson (FL) ‘‘(ii) presents significant concerns with respect
McCollum Rose, John W. (FL)) Ruiz (Aguilar)
Trahan (Evans)
McEachin Rouda Davis (CA) (Wild) Rush to the activities of a United States person that
Trone Levin (CA)
McGovern Rouzer DeSaulnier (Underwood) are protected by the first amendment to the Con-
Turner (Kildee)
McKinley Roy (Matsui) Schneider stitution of the United States, unless the court
Underwood Levin (MI)
McNerney Roybal-Allard Deutch (Rice (Houlahan) issues a finding that such appointment is not
Upton (Raskin)
Meeks Ruiz (NY)) Schrader
Meng Ruppersberger
Van Drew Lewis (Kildee) appropriate;
Doggett (Raskin) (O’Halleran)
Meuser Rush
Vargas Lieu, Ted (Beyer) ‘‘(iii) presents or involves a sensitive inves-
Escobar (Garcia Schrier (Kilmer)
Mfume Rutherford Veasey Lipinski (Cooper) tigative matter, unless the court issues a finding
(TX)) Serrano (Meng)
Miller Ryan Vela Lofgren (Boyle, that such appointment is not appropriate;
Eshoo Speier (Scanlon)
Mitchell Sánchez Velázquez Brendan F.) ‘‘(iv) presents a request for approval of a new
(Thompson Suozzi (Panetta)
Visclosky Lowenthal
Moolenaar Sarbanes (CA)) Tlaib (Dingell) program, a new technology, or a new use of ex-
Mooney (WV) Scalise Wagner (Beyer)
Walberg
Foster (Beyer) Tonko (Meng) isting technology, unless the court issues a find-
Moore Scanlon Frankel (Kuster Lowey (Meng) Vargas (Keating) ing that such appointment is not appropriate;
Morelle Schakowsky Walden Maloney,
(NH)) Veasey (Beyer) ‘‘(v) presents a request for reauthorization of
Moulton Schiff Walker Carolyn B.
Garamendi Vela (Gallego) programmatic surveillance, unless the court
Mucarsel-Powell Schneider Walorski (Rose (NY))
(Sherman) Watson Coleman
Mullin Schrader Waltz
Gonzalez (TX) McEachin (Pallone)
issues a finding that such appointment is not
Murphy (FL) Schrier Wasserman (Cuellar) (Wexton) appropriate; or
Welch
Murphy (NC) Schweikert Schultz Grijalva (Clay) McNerney ‘‘(vi) otherwise presents novel or significant
(McGovern)
Nadler Scott (VA) Waters Harder (CA) (Raskin) Wilson (FL) civil liberties issues, unless the court issues a
Napolitano Scott, Austin Watkins (Haaland) Moore (Beyer) (Hayes) finding that such appointment is not appro-
Neal Scott, David Watson Coleman
Weber (TX) f priate; and’’; and
Neguse Serrano (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘an indi-
Newhouse Sewell (AL) Webster (FL)
Norcross Shalala Welch b 1315 vidual or organization’’ each place the term ap-
Norman Sherman Wenstrup pears and inserting ‘‘one or more individuals or
Nunes Sherrill Westerman MOMENT OF SILENCE IN REMEM- organizations’’.
O’Halleran Shimkus Wexton BRANCE OF THE OVER 100,000 (2) DEFINITION OF SENSITIVE INVESTIGATIVE
Ocasio-Cortez Simpson Wild AMERICANS WHO HAVE PASSED MATTER.—Subsection (i) of section 103 (50 U.S.C.
Olson Sires Williams 1803) is amended by adding at the end the fol-
Omar Slotkin Wilson (FL) AWAY FROM THE COVID–19
VIRUS lowing:
Palazzo Smith (MO) Wilson (SC)
Wittman
‘‘(12) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the
Pallone Smith (NE)
Palmer Smith (NJ) Womack The SPEAKER. The Chair asks that term ‘sensitive investigative matter’ means—
Panetta Smith (WA) Woodall all Members in the Chamber, as well as ‘‘(A) an investigative matter involving the ac-
Pappas Smucker Wright Members and staff throughout the Cap- tivities of—
Pascrell Soto Yarmuth ‘‘(i) a domestic public official or political can-
itol and Members wherever they are,
Payne Spanberger Yoho didate, or an individual serving on the staff of
Pelosi Spano Zeldin rise for a moment of silence in remem- such an official or candidate;
brance of the over 100,000 Americans ‘‘(ii) a domestic religious or political organiza-
NAYS—1
who have passed away from the tion, or a known or suspected United States per-
Massie
COVID–19 virus. son prominent in such an organization; or
NOT VOTING—13 ‘‘(iii) the domestic news media; or
f ‘‘(B) any other investigative matter involving
Abraham Granger Rooney (FL)
Brooks (IN) Hollingsworth Sensenbrenner MOTION TO GO TO CONFERENCE a domestic entity or a known or suspected
Buchanan LaHood Young ON H.R. 6172, USA FREEDOM RE- United States person that, in the judgment of
Carter (TX) Marchant the applicable court established under sub-
Crawford McHenry AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2020 section (a) or (b), is as sensitive as an investiga-
b 1312 Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, pur- tive matter described in subparagraph (A).’’.
suant to clause 1 of rule XXII, and by (b) AUTHORITY TO SEEK REVIEW.—Subsection
Mr. DUNN changed his vote from direction of the Committee on the Ju- (i) of section 103 (50 U.S.C. 1803), as amended by
‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ diciary, I offer a motion on the bill subsection (a) of this section, is amended—
So (two-thirds being in the affirma- (1) in paragraph (4)—
(H.R. 6172) to amend the Foreign Intel- (A) in the paragraph heading, by inserting ‘‘;
tive) the rules were suspended and the
ligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to pro- AUTHORITY’’ after ‘‘DUTIES’’;
bill, as amended, was passed.
hibit the production of certain business (B) by redesignating subparagraphs (A), (B),
The result of the vote was announced and (C) as clauses (i), (ii), and (iii), respectively,
records, and for other purposes.
as above recorded. and adjusting the margins accordingly;
A motion to reconsider was laid on The Clerk read the title of the bill.
(C) in the matter preceding clause (i), as so
the table. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms.
designated, by striking ‘‘the amicus curiae
Stated for: JACKSON LEE). The Clerk will designate shall’’ and inserting the following: ‘‘the amicus
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
Mr. YOUNG. Madam Speaker, I was unable the Senate amendments. curiae—
to vote on May 28, 2020. Had I been present, Senate amendments: ‘‘(A) shall’’;
I would have voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall No. 114, Ω1æ In subsection (a)(2)(B) of section 602 of (D) in subparagraph (A)(i), as so designated,
the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of by inserting before the semicolon at the end the
on passage of H.R. 7010, as amended. 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1872), as added by section following: ‘‘, including legal arguments regard-
PERSONAL EXPLANATION 301(b)(3), insert after ‘‘section 103(i)’’ the fol- ing any privacy or civil liberties interest of any
Mr. ABRAHAM. Madam Speaker, on Thurs- lowing: , a proceeding in the Foreign Intel- United States person that would be significantly
day, May 28, I was unavoidably detained on ligence Court of Review resulting from the peti- impacted by the application or motion’’; and
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2341
(E) by striking the period at the end and in- riae appointed under paragraph (2) or upon its ‘‘(4) the applicant coordinates with the appro-
serting the following: ‘‘; and own motion, may require the Government to priate elements of the intelligence community
‘‘(B) may seek leave to raise any novel or sig- make available the supporting documentation (as defined in section 3 of the National Security
nificant privacy or civil liberties issue relevant described in section 902.’’. Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3003)), concerning any
to the application or motion or other issue di- (2) CLARIFICATION OF ACCESS TO CERTAIN IN- prior or existing relationship with the target of
rectly impacting the legality of the proposed FORMATION.—Such section is further amended— any surveillance, search, or other means of in-
electronic surveillance with the court, regardless (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘may’’ vestigation, and discloses any such relationship
of whether the court has requested assistance on and inserting ‘‘shall’’; and in the application;
that issue.’’; (B) by striking subparagraph (C) and insert- ‘‘(5) before any application targeting a United
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (7) through ing the following: States person is made, the applicant Federal of-
(12) as paragraphs (8) through (13), respectively; ‘‘(C) CLASSIFIED INFORMATION.—An amicus ficer shall document that the officer has col-
and curiae appointed by the court shall have access lected and reviewed for accuracy and complete-
(3) by inserting after paragraph (6) the fol- to, to the extent such information is available to ness supporting documentation for each factual
lowing: the Government, unredacted copies of each assertion in the application; and
‘‘(7) AUTHORITY TO SEEK REVIEW OF DECI- opinion, order, transcript, pleading, or other ‘‘(6) the applicant Federal agency establish
SIONS.— document of the Foreign Intelligence Surveil- compliance and auditing mechanisms on an an-
‘‘(A) FISA COURT DECISIONS.—Following lance Court and the Foreign Intelligence Sur- nual basis to assess the efficacy of the accuracy
issuance of an order under this Act by the For- veillance Court of Review, including, if the indi- procedures that have been adopted and report
eign Intelligence Surveillance Court, an amicus vidual is eligible for access to classified informa- such findings to the Attorney General.
curiae appointed under paragraph (2) may peti- tion, any classified documents, information, and ‘‘(b) STATEMENT AND CERTIFICATION OF ACCU-
tion the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court other materials or proceedings.’’. RACY PROCEDURES.—Any Federal officer making
to certify for review to the Foreign Intelligence Ω5æ Redesignate section 207 as section 208. an application for a court order under this Act
Surveillance Court of Review a question of law Ω6æ Insert after section 206 the following: shall include with the application—
pursuant to subsection (j). If the court denies SEC. 207. DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT INFORMA- ‘‘(1) a description of the accuracy procedures
such petition, the court shall provide for the TION; CERTIFICATION REGARDING employed by the officer or the officer’s designee;
ACCURACY PROCEDURES. and
record a written statement of the reasons for
such denial. Upon certification of any question (a) DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT INFORMATION.— ‘‘(2) a certification that the officer or the offi-
of law pursuant to this subparagraph, the Court (1) IN GENERAL.—The Foreign Intelligence cer’s designee has collected and reviewed for ac-
of Review shall appoint the amicus curiae to as- Surveillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) curacy and completeness—
sist the Court of Review in its consideration of is amended by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(A) supporting documentation for each fac-
the certified question, unless the Court of Re- ‘‘TITLE IX—DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT tual assertion contained in the application;
view issues a finding that such appointment is INFORMATION ‘‘(B) all information that might reasonably
not appropriate. ‘‘SEC. 901. DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT INFORMA- call into question the accuracy of the informa-
‘‘(B) FISA COURT OF REVIEW DECISIONS.—An TION. tion or the reasonableness of any assessment in
amicus curiae appointed under paragraph (2) ‘‘The Attorney General or any other Federal the application, or otherwise raises doubts about
may petition the Foreign Intelligence Surveil- officer making an application for a court order the requested findings; and
lance Court of Review to certify for review to under this Act shall provide the court with— ‘‘(C) all material information that might rea-
the Supreme Court of the United States any ‘‘(1) all information in the possession of the sonably call into question the reliability and re-
question of law pursuant to section 1254(2) of Government that is material to determining porting of any information from any confiden-
title 28, United States Code. whether the application satisfies the applicable tial human source that is used in the applica-
‘‘(C) DECLASSIFICATION OF REFERRALS.—For requirements under this Act, including any ex- tion.
purposes of section 602, a petition filed under culpatory information; and ‘‘(c) NECESSARY FINDING FOR COURT OR-
‘‘(2) all information in the possession of the DERS.—A judge may not enter an order under
subparagraph (A) or (B) of this paragraph and
Government that might reasonably— this Act unless the judge finds, in addition to
all of its content shall be considered a decision,
‘‘(A) call into question the accuracy of the ap- any other findings required under this Act, that
order, or opinion issued by the Foreign Intel-
plication or the reasonableness of any assess- the accuracy procedures described in the appli-
ligence Surveillance Court or the Foreign Intel-
ment in the application conducted by the de- cation for the order, as required under sub-
ligence Surveillance Court of Review described
partment or agency on whose behalf the appli- section (b)(1), are actually accuracy procedures
in paragraph (2) of section 602(a).’’.
Ω3æ In section 302(c), redesignate paragraph cation is made; or as defined in this section.’’.
‘‘(B) otherwise raise doubts with respect to the (2) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of con-
(2) as paragraph (3).
findings that are required to be made under the tents of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance
Ω4æ In section 302(c), strike paragraph (1) and
applicable provision of this Act in order for the Act of 1978, as amended by subsection (a), is
insert the following:
(1) APPLICATION AND MATERIALS.—Subpara- court order to be issued.’’. amended by inserting after the item relating to
graph (A) of section 103(i)(6) (50 U.S.C. (2) TECHNICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of con- section 901 the following:
tents of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance ‘‘Sec. 902. Certification regarding accuracy pro-
1803(i)(6)) is amended to read as follows:
‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.— Act of 1978 is amended by adding at the end the cedures.’’.
following: Ω7æ In section 208, as so redesignated, strike
‘‘(i) RIGHT OF AMICUS.—If a court established
‘‘TITLE IX—DISCLOSURE OF RELEVANT øsection 501 of the Foreign Intelligence Sur-
under subsection (a) or (b) appoints an amicus
INFORMATION veillance Act of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1861)¿ and in-
curiae under paragraph (2), the amicus curiae—
‘‘(I) shall have access to, to the extent such sert: the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act
‘‘Sec. 901. Disclosure of relevant information.’’. of 1978 (50 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (if applicable)
information is available to the Government— (b) CERTIFICATION REGARDING ACCURACY PRO- Ω8æ At the end, add the following:
‘‘(aa) the application, certification, petition, CEDURES.—
SEC. 409. ANNUAL REPORTING ON ACCURACY
motion, and other information and supporting (1) IN GENERAL.—Title IX of the Foreign Intel- AND COMPLETENESS OF APPLICA-
materials, including any information described ligence Surveillance Act of 1978, as added by TIONS.
in section 901, submitted to the Foreign Intel- subsection (a), is amended by adding at the end Section 603 (50 U.S.C. 1873) is amended—
ligence Surveillance Court in connection with the following: (1) by redesignating subsection (e) as sub-
the matter in which the amicus curiae has been ‘‘SEC. 902. CERTIFICATION REGARDING ACCU- section (f); and
appointed, including access to any relevant RACY PROCEDURES. (2) by inserting after subsection (d) the fol-
legal precedent (including any such precedent ‘‘(a) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term lowing:
that is cited by the Government, including in ‘accuracy procedures’ means specific proce- ‘‘(e) ANNUAL REPORT BY DOJ INSPECTOR GEN-
such an application); dures, adopted by the Attorney General, to en- ERAL ON ACCURACY AND COMPLETENESS OF AP-
‘‘(bb) an unredacted copy of each relevant de- sure that an application for a court order under PLICATIONS.—
cision made by the Foreign Intelligence Surveil- this Act, including any application for renewal ‘‘(1) DEFINITION OF APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES
lance Court or the Foreign Intelligence Surveil- of an existing order, is accurate and complete, OF CONGRESS.—In this subsection, the term ‘ap-
lance Court of Review in which the court de- including procedures that ensure, at a min- propriate committees of Congress’ means—
cides a question of law, without regard to imum, that— ‘‘(A) the Committee on the Judiciary and the
whether the decision is classified; and ‘‘(1) the application reflects all information Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate;
‘‘(cc) any other information or materials that that might reasonably call into question the ac- and
the court determines are relevant to the duties curacy of the information or the reasonableness ‘‘(B) the Committee on the Judiciary and the
of the amicus curiae; and of any assessment in the application, or other- Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
‘‘(II) may make a submission to the court re- wise raises doubts about the requested findings; the House of Representatives.
questing access to any other particular mate- ‘‘(2) the application reflects all material infor- ‘‘(2) REPORT.—In April of each year, the In-
rials or information (or category of materials or mation that might reasonably call into question spector General of the Department of Justice
information) that the amicus curiae believes to the reliability and reporting of any information shall submit to the appropriate committees of
be relevant to the duties of the amicus curiae. from a confidential human source that is used Congress and make public, subject to a declas-
‘‘(ii) SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION REGARDING in the application; sification review, a report setting forth, with re-
ACCURACY.—The Foreign Intelligence Surveil- ‘‘(3) a complete file documenting each factual spect to the preceding calendar year, the fol-
lance Court, upon the motion of an amicus cu- assertion in an application is maintained; lowing:
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H2342 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
‘‘(A) A summary of all accuracy or complete- only: the President tweeted, on a We learned on January 6 what hap-
ness reviews of applications submitted to the whim, and told them to oppose this pened that day. We learned that then-
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court by the bill. FBI Director Comey goes to Trump
Federal Bureau of Investigation. Madam Speaker, this is just one
‘‘(B) The total number of applications re-
Tower and meets with then-President-
viewed for accuracy or completeness.
more example of how the President and elect Trump and talks to him about
‘‘(C) The total number of material errors or his enablers in this body have stood in the dossier that they already know is
omissions identified during such reviews. the way of national security, of civil false, that they know is Russian
‘‘(D) The total number of nonmaterial errors liberties, and of our responsibility as disinformation, they know is paid for
or omissions identified during such reviews. Members of Congress. by the Clinton campaign.
‘‘(E) The total number of instances in which I refuse to let our efforts to reform Then what did we learn just 2 weeks
facts contained in an application were not sup- FISA die simply because Republicans
ported by documentation that existed in the ap- later? January 20, 2017, what did they
are unwilling to stand up to the Presi- do? They sneak two agents into the
plicable file being reviewed at the time of the ac-
curacy review.’’.
dent’s whims. White House, two FBI agents, to set up
This legislation ends the NSA’s call General Flynn.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The detail records program; it applies the
Clerk will report the motion. What else have we learned since we
cutting edge of Fourth Amendment pri- dealt with this issue on March 10?
The Clerk read as follows: vacy protections to section 215; it
Mr. Nadler moves to take from the Speak- We have learned about the unmask-
forces the government to disclose years ing of Michael Flynn, 39 people un-
er’s table the bill, H.R. 6172, with the Senate
amendments thereto, disagree to the Senate
of secret FISA court opinions; it in- masking General Flynn’s name, six
amendments, and request a conference with creases transparency across the board; people in Treasury. What are six Treas-
the Senate thereon. it raises the stakes for any government ury officials doing unmasking the guy
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- attorney who would dare mislead the who is going to be the National Secu-
tleman from New York (Mr. NADLER) is court; and it dramatically expands the rity Director in the incoming adminis-
recognized for 1 hour. role of the amicus to be an advocate for tration?
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, for privacy and civil liberties and to push
back against claims that should have b 1330
purposes of debate only, I yield 30 min-
utes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. been rejected by the court long ago. Finally, and probably most impor-
JORDAN), and I yield myself such time It is our responsibility to continue tantly, we have the report from Inspec-
as I may consume. our work, to pass this bill, to send it to tor General Horowitz; not the report he
Madam Speaker, bills like the USA the President’s desk, and to ensure did on the Carter Page FISA—we al-
Freedom Reauthorization Act touch that these reforms are made law. ready got that; we know how scathing
deeply held beliefs on all sides. None of us should rest until we have that was. We know all the wrongdoings
The bill we intended to consider last done that work. that took place there—but the inves-
I would be very interested to hear tigation he is just starting on FISA in
night strengthened privacy protections
what changed in the bill between yes- general.
and made substantial improvements to
terday morning and yesterday evening He has looked at 29 cases involving
the law. The bill, as amended by the
that caused the Republicans to with- American citizens—29 cases—and found
Senate, is a good and important pack-
draw their support from a bill they had in every single one of those cases mul-
age of reforms.
Now, you may disagree with that as- agreed to, from provisions they said tiple problems when they were
sessment, you may genuinely believe were improvements to national secu- surveilled; again, American citizens. In
that the bill doesn’t go far enough to rity, from provisions they said were 4 of those 29 cases they couldn’t even
reform the FISA system or perhaps improvements to civil liberties of find the Woods file. They couldn’t even
that it goes too far with those reforms. American citizens, and suddenly all op- find the file that you have to keep that
If you disagree with me on the merits pose it. What changed, other than the has the basic evidence that you are
of the bill, I respect that disagreement. President’s tweet? then going to take to the FISA court.
Madam Speaker, I urge my col- They couldn’t even find it.
What I cannot accept, and what I sus-
leagues to support this motion and So he does something that you hard-
pect many Americans will not accept,
send the bill to conference where we ly ever see. He does what is called a
is a transparent, inexplicable, totally
can do the job we were sent here to do. management alert, basically pulling
unjustified flip-flop on this bill, a bill
Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- the fire alarm saying this is so bad, I
important both to the security and the
ance of my time. am going to tell you what is going on
privacy of the United States. Mr. JORDAN. Madam Speaker, I
Just a few weeks ago, 126 Repub- now; and I have just gotten started on
yield myself such time as I may con-
licans joined 152 Democrats in support looking at the overall FISA.
sume.
of a nearly identical measure, different Madam Speaker, everything has So that is what has changed since
only in that the Senate has added one changed. The main change is it is March 10 when this body dealt with
amendment, a good amendment with worse than we thought. this issue.
almost universal support. Virtually all Since March 10, when this body last And when the President of the United
of those 126 Republicans changed their dealt with the FISA legislation, all States, a pretty important person in
position in the past 24 hours. kinds of things have changed. this debate, when he says, you know
Madam Speaker, the American peo- We have learned from the declassified what? I think we should hit the pause
ple see through those excuses. Nobody transcripts how bad the situation was button. We should wait here a little bit
believes that this sudden reversal has in the prior administration when they until we get to the bottom of every-
anything to do with complaints about went after the Trump campaign. thing that took place; what Mr. Horo-
proxy voting. Nobody believes that the We have learned about the concerted witz is looking at; what Mr. Barr is
flip-flop is about Michael Flynn or effort to frame General Flynn, a three- looking at; what U.S. Attorney John
Roger Stone, or even President Trump, star general, 30 years serving our coun- Durham is looking at. Maybe we should
whose cases have nothing to do with try, and everything they did. just kind of hit the pause button and
the authorities we hope to reform. We learned about January 4, when figure all this out. That is all he said,
There have been no real policy de- the FBI agents said: We should no and that is all we have advocated. That
mands to explain the sudden reversal, longer pursue going after General is why we took the position we did at
no demands for changes in the bill. If Flynn. But what happened? Jim Comey the conference yesterday, and I appre-
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my Republican colleagues had asked told Peter Strzok: No, no, no. Go tell ciate the fact that Leader MCCARTHY
for substantive changes to the bill, we those agents we are going to continue and our conference took that position.
would have heard them out and tried to to go after this guy. So let’s wait and get all the facts.
address their concerns. We learned the very next day, Janu- Let’s wait until we actually hold peo-
But that is not what happened. The ary 5, Jim Comey met with the Presi- ple accountable before we renew this
Republicans abandoned this bipartisan dent, President Obama, and talked program which, as the President said
project for one reason, and one reason about General Flynn. yesterday, does allow some warrantless
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2343
searches of American citizens. So let’s a partisan bill. The leaders, all three We had a new rule you don’t like. We
make sure we get it right. That is our top leaders, on both sides of the aisle could bring the Congress back and vote
position as Republicans. supported, essentially, this bill. on a bipartisan bill for America.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- That bill, upon Senate consideration, But, as a result of the President’s an-
ance of my time. was amended by an overwhelmingly bi- tipathy toward Federal law enforce-
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I am partisan vote to strengthen the protec- ment and his personal sense of griev-
glad the gentleman learned all this tions of privacy, which should have ance, authorities that have expired will
since noon yesterday when he testified been heartening to those on the right continue to be lapsed.
in front of the Rules Committee in and the left, and it was certainly heart- The complicity of those who believe
favor of this bill. ening to me. that the reauthorizing of these au-
I yield such time as he may consume And then, what did they do? They thorities was in the best interest of the
to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. passed it, with 80 Senators, 48 Repub- United States, in preventing its pas-
HOYER), the distinguished majority licans supporting this bill; 48 out of 53 sage last night and today, is, I think,
leader. supporting this bill. But this is not a both sad and irresponsible.
Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I partisan bill; and this bill is about that Madam Speaker, I regret that we did
thank the gentleman for yielding. balance. not bring this bill to the floor for a
The information I had was, as the Mr. NUNES and Mr. SCHIFF supported vote.
chairman has indicated, that the gen- This is a result, in my view, Madam
this bill and supported this balance.
tleman who just spoke appeared before Speaker, of patently political and inde-
And two-thirds of us made a judgment
fensible abandonment of principle and
the Rules Committee in support of this that they had done a job worthy of sup- responsibility, both as a coequal
bill. And we can get the transcript. I port. branch of government and its policy-
don’t have it right now, but perhaps So two-thirds of the Democrats in making branch as well.
somebody can get that transcript for the Senate, two-thirds of the Repub- Madam Speaker, we need to send this
me. licans in the Senate, two-thirds of the bill to conference. I urge my colleagues
For my entire career in public serv- Republicans in this House, and two- to vote to send it to conference. And if
ice, I have supported efforts to make thirds of the Democrats in this House you think this needs to be perfected in
America both strong and safe and a have supported this bill. I believe that some way, as Mr. NADLER said, that is
force for peace and reconciliation. In support was garnered because an as- the place to do it now that we are not
the course of those years, I have striv- sumption was made, a premise was going to have it on the floor.
en to draw an acceptable balance be- adopted by the overwhelming majority Let me repeat. I would have had it on
tween our national security and the of us, that it was a carefully crafted the floor. But we will not get an oppor-
protection of our personal liberty and balance between security and indi- tunity to vote on it, so I will wait to
the right to privacy central to our vidual liberties. It may not be perfect, see the result of a conference with the
unique extraordinary democracy; a but we have a responsibility to protect Republican-led Senate on the bill that
government of laws, not men. this country and our people. the President has threatened to veto.
Pursuant to that principle, as the In consultation, therefore, with other Two-thirds of us believed that this
majority leader, I scheduled the For- leaders, I scheduled this bill for consid- was a bill that was good for America.
eign Intelligence Surveillance Act for eration yesterday. The night before, I This is a serious issue with serious con-
floor consideration over 2 months ago. got a call from my friend, the minority sequences, and I urge you to vote
Previously, in 2008, ROY BLUNT, then leader, that the President was urging ‘‘yes.’’ Do not kill this bill.
the minority whip, and myself, the ma- Republicans in the House to change Mr. JORDAN. Madam Speaker, I
jority leader; Senator Kit Bond, Sen- their votes to ‘‘no.’’ yield myself such time as I may con-
ator from Missouri; and Senator Jay In the twinkling of a presidential sume.
Rockefeller, Senator from West Vir- tweet, without any substantive logic to I just want to correct a couple of
ginia, worked together, at a time of justify their actions, I was told that things that the majority leader said.
great controversy with respect to the the 126 Republicans who had voted for You guys are the ones that let the
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, this bill when it was considered in the FISA law lapse. There was a 75-day ex-
to forge a bill that would garner bipar- House would now change their votes tension sent over here. You guys got
tisan support. It was a difficult bill, and vote ‘‘no.’’ the majority. You let it lapse.
with the same kind of principle dif- Chairman NADLER has said this, and I We want to fix it. We want to correct
ferences that Chairman NADLER spoke want to share this because it is worth it. We want to make sure it is not
of earlier and I am going to speak abused like it has obviously been
repeating. I believe when FISA passed
about again. abused. We didn’t let it lapse, you guys
the House in March, every Member,
We passed that bill in a bipartisan did.
those who voted ‘‘yes’’ and those who And frankly, if you guys got the
fashion with, as we have today, people voted ‘‘no’’ voted their principles and votes for this bill, you got the major-
on the right and people on the left con- their conviction on what they believed ity, you could pass it today. You don’t
cerned about its content. So there was was in the security interests of the have the votes because we need more
bipartisan support and bipartisan oppo- United States. Every one of the 435 work to be done on this to correct it.
sition. Speaker PELOSI and to-be Presi- people—I don’t think there were quite The leader also said something that
dent Obama, then in the Senate rep- 435—that voted on that bill, in my was not accurate. He said the President
resenting Illinois, voted for that bill. I view, voted on principle and out of con- had no basis for the tweet he issued
have tried to continue to forge that viction. yesterday.
balance through the years. I, of course, believed that the two- Are you kidding me? Are you kidding
The bill I brought to the floor a few thirds of the Members who voted for me?
months ago was a bipartisan effort to the bill, on principle, and pursuant to They spied on two American citizens
achieve that critical balance, and when conviction about making this country associated with his campaign, and he
it came to a vote, it received two- safe, were voting, not for party, but for has got no basis for the tweet he did
thirds of the votes from both Demo- principle. yesterday?
crats and Republicans. This bill essen- Therefore, I was surprised because I They used a dossier to go to the se-
tially had two-thirds of the votes on saw, not then nor now, any reason that cret court to get a warrant to spy on
the Republican side and two-thirds of either principle or conviction should be one of those individuals; a dossier that
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the votes on the Democratic side, so changed, particularly in light of the they knew was false; a dossier they
obviously, two-thirds of the votes of fact that 80 Senators—80 Senators—48 knew was paid for by the Clinton cam-
this House. Republican colleagues of yours, Madam paign; a dossier that Jim Comey said—
As I observed yesterday, Americans Speaker, voted for this bill. not me—Jim Comey said was salacious
must have been heartened by the fact Therefore, I assumed that we could and unverified; a dossier where the au-
that we could reach a bipartisan agree- bring Members back. We had a con- thor had already told the Justice De-
ment on such a difficult bill. It was not troversy where some didn’t come back. partment that he was desperate to stop
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H2344 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Trump from getting elected, and they Oh, some say, we just add an amicus I supported the legislation. I said that,
used it to go spy on the Trump cam- in there and that will take care of it. but I also said we could make it better.
paign. The FISA judges did not even have And the President, in light of what we
And the President has no basis for the honor of their courts after finding have learned in the last 2 months—we
the tweet he issued yesterday? out they were lied to repeatedly and need to make it better. I think we can
b 1345 fraud was committed against them to do that.
do something about it. That tells you We should never forget the President
Are you kidding me? You guys let it we need massive reform. of the United States plays a pretty im-
lapse. We are trying to fix it because A vote to go to conference is a total portant role. In fact, he has to sign the
we know how bad it is. abdication of this body’s job to put out bills, last time I checked, so his posi-
Finally, I would just reiterate 29
a good bill that does reform. tion does have real impact.
cases where American citizens were Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to
Madam Speaker, I ask everybody,
surveilled by the FBI, and every single the gentleman from the great State of
vote ‘‘no’’ to go to conference so that
one of those was a major problem when Ohio (Mr. DAVIDSON).
we can force this House to do its job.
they went to the FISA court. As I said Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, let Mr. DAVIDSON of Ohio. Madam
before, four of those cases, they me just say, first of all, of course, Speaker, I thank the gentleman for
couldn’t even find the Woods File. much of what the distinguished gen- yielding.
We want to fix this, and we are will- Madam Speaker, as the majority
tleman from Ohio said is fiction, as we
ing to take as long as it takes. leader well knows better than most of
I agree with the chairman of the Ju- all know.
But, second of all, this bill as of yes- us in the room, for a bill to become
diciary Committee. There are good
terday noon was supported by Repub- law, the President of the United States
things in the legislation. I said that
licans and was supported by the gen- must sign it, and he has made clear
yesterday at the Rules Committee. But
tleman from Ohio as making sufficient that he is not going to sign this prod-
what I also said at the Rules Com-
reforms, as making the reforms that uct. So, it is a complete waste of every-
mittee is: Let’s get it right.
If the President is saying that we are we all recognize we need in the FISA one’s time to send over a bill that has
not going to do this until we figure out system. no chance to become law.
Madam Speaker, I yield such time as Rather than make this bill better,
everything that went wrong, I agree
he may consume to the gentleman rather than make this bill something
with him 100 percent. More impor-
from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), who is the that could become law, we are going to
tantly, the American people agree with
distinguished majority leader. run out the clock on more broken proc-
that. They want this fixed. They don’t
Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, this is ess. Why are we going to do that? We
want anything done on this until we
testimony dated 5/27/2020. I am going to are going to do that because the people
get to the bottom of everything that
read you some passages from that tes- who are working to preserve the bro-
took place in the Comey FBI.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. timony: ken status quo of warrantless spying
WASSERMAN SCHULTZ). Members are re- ‘‘Thank you for the opportunity to on American citizens want to keep that
minded to address their remarks to the talk about this important legislation.’’ status quo in place.
Chair. I will go down, skip a couple of para- So, rather than allow real reform, we
Mr. JORDAN. Madam Speaker, I graphs. Perhaps he will want to point have had a process that bypassed the
yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from those out. Judiciary Committee. When Chairman
Texas (Mr. GOHMERT). The judge is my ‘‘Fortunately,’’ the gentleman said, NADLER realized he didn’t have the
good friend and fellow Judiciary Com- ‘‘this bill makes important structural votes to move his own product through
mittee member. reforms to the program to combat the committee, he pulled the whole
Mr. GOHMERT. Madam Speaker, one abuses.’’ committee process. In a committee
of the advantages we have seen from He then said: ‘‘Most importantly, process, amendments would be able to
having a typed speech is you don’t for- this bill includes accountability meas- be offered, and because they knew the
get things like I often do that are im- ures.’’ amendments would be offered in ac-
portant points, but one of the weak- He went on to say: ‘‘It also includes cordance with the rules of the House
nesses is you can’t respond to the myr- reforms that strengthen Congress’ and would be adopted if they were
iad of points that somebody just made oversight powers.’’ given a chance to vote, they had to pull
explaining why we need massive reform ‘‘Finally,’’ he said, ‘‘I would like to it.
to the FISA bill and the information thank Senators Lee and Leahy for So, they didn’t run it through the
that has come out. their amendment to the House-passed committee. The people who are rep-
Now, I got here 15 years ago, and I bill which strengthens the amicus role resented by all 435 of us in this body
was part of the reauthorization back in in these proceedings by extending them had no chance to have their voices
those days. We got lied to by the Jus- to any sensitive investigative matter heard in a regular process. Leadership
tice Department about how this would involving any U.S. persons. And I also jammed through this broken bill to try
be used. They came back in the private fully support this inclusion as well of to put some window dressing of reform
meetings: Oh, we don’t go after Ameri- the Lofgren-Davidson amendment,’’ on it.
cans. which is not on the bill, ‘‘to limit the Some of them are important; they
We have seen from the information FBI’s ability to obtain internet brows- are better than the status quo. But
that has come out in recent weeks that ing history of Americans.’’ they are just modest reforms. That is
they do exactly what they told us by I am trying to find a word of opposi- why they had so much support from
behind closed doors they never did. tion to this bill, clearly, taken by the the people who want to preserve it.
This thing needs to be massively re- Rules Committee as support of the pas- Then, when there was a real reform,
formed. sage of this bill. you saw that drop off. Then, when
What happened in the last 24 hours? My, my, my. As I have pointed out there was the Lofgren-Davidson
Something called a Rules Committee, earlier, the consequences of a twin- amendment that really would reform it
and it wouldn’t allow our reforms. It kling of a tweet from the President of and stop warrantless spying on Ameri-
wouldn’t allow this body to vote on im- the United States: Like that, changing cans’ internet browser data, when it
portant reforms. the votes of 126 people, whom I believed was spying on Americans, they stopped
Go reread the Fourth Amendment. voted on principle and on conviction it—not a single vote on an amendment
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We are not supposed to authorize for this bill for America. in the people’s House of the United
searches and seizures against Ameri- Madam Speaker, I thank the gen- States of America to preserve and pro-
cans without the proper due process, tleman for yielding. tect the freedoms guaranteed in the
without a probable cause, and without Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I re- Fourth Amendment.
particularly describing the places to be serve the balance of my time. Yes, we must make our Nation se-
searched and what to be seized. And Mr. JORDAN. Madam Speaker, let cure. But we must do it constitu-
the FISA court has violated that. me first point out, I already said that tionally in full compliance with the
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2345
Bill of Rights. No one is exempt, Arti- the gentleman from New York (Mr. Simpson Thompson (MS) Wagner
Sires Thornberry Walberg
cle I, Article II, or Article III. NADLER). Slotkin Timmons Waltz
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I The question was taken; and the Smith (NJ) Titus Wasserman
yield myself such time as I may con- Speaker pro tempore announced that Smith (WA) Tonko Schultz
sume. Soto Torres (CA) Waters
the ayes appeared to have it. Spanberger Torres Small
Madam Speaker, I listened to the dis- Watson Coleman
Mr. GRIFFITH. Madam Speaker, on Speier (NM) Webster (FL)
tinguished gentleman a moment ago: that I demand the yeas and nays. Stanton Trahan
Welch
We shouldn’t pass any legislation that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
Stefanik Trone
Wenstrup
Steil Turner
the President won’t sign. ant to section 3 of House Resolution Stevens Underwood Wexton
The King of England used to have the 965, the yeas and nays are ordered. Stewart Upton Wild
royal prerogative, an absolute veto. Stivers Vargas Wilson (FL)
The vote was taken by electronic de- Suozzi Veasey Womack
The President of the United States
vice, and there were—yeas 284, nays Swalwell (CA) Vela Woodall
does not. Yarmuth
122, not voting 25, as follows: Taylor Velázquez
This House and the Senate should do Thompson (CA) Visclosky
its job and pass proper legislation, and [Roll No. 115]
NAYS—122
let the President do his job. We had YEAS—284
Aderholt Gohmert Mullin
two-thirds of the votes in this House Adams Espaillat Luria Allen Golden Norman
for this bill. Aguilar Evans Lynch Amash Gooden Ocasio-Cortez
Allred Ferguson Malinowski
Yes, the gentleman from Ohio men- Axne Finkenauer Maloney,
Amodei Gosar Omar
tions the Lofgren-Davidson amend- Armstrong Green (TN) Palazzo
Bacon Fitzpatrick Carolyn B. Arrington Griffith Palmer
ment. I support that amendment. If we Baird Fletcher Maloney, Sean Babin Guest Pence
had gone forward, we could have gone Balderson Foster Matsui Banks Guthrie Perry
Barr Foxx (NC) McAdams Barragán
with it. But the fact of the matter is, Hagedorn Pocan
Bass Frankel McBath Biggs Harris Posey
they have withdrawn their support be- Beatty Fudge McCarthy Bilirakis Herrera Beutler
Bera Gallagher McCaul Pressley
cause of the President’s tweet, and for Bishop (NC) Hice (GA) Reschenthaler
Bergman Gallego McCollum
no other reason, we are where we are Beyer Garamendi McEachin
Bishop (UT) Higgins (LA) Rice (SC)
now. Blumenauer Jayapal Riggleman
Bishop (GA) Garcia (CA) McGovern Brooks (AL) Johnson (LA)
To preserve the ability to have the Blunt Rochester Garcia (TX) McKinley Buck Johnson (OH)
Rodgers (WA)
Bonamici Gomez McNerney Roe, David P.
Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Bucshon Jordan
Bost Gonzalez (OH) Meeks Rogers (KY)
and preserve national security as well Boyle, Brendan Gonzalez (TX) Mfume
Budd Joyce (PA)
Rose, John W.
Burchett Keller
as the improvements in the act em- F. Gottheimer Moore Burgess Kelly (MS)
Roy
bodied in this bill and in the Senate Brady Graves (GA) Morelle Byrne Kelly (PA)
Schweikert
Brindisi Graves (LA) Moulton Smith (MO)
version of the bill that improves secu- Brown (MD) Graves (MO) Mucarsel-Powell
Carter (GA) Kennedy
Chu, Judy Khanna Smith (NE)
rity while improving privacy protec- Brownley (CA) Green, Al (TX) Murphy (FL) Smucker
Clarke (NY) Kim
tions against surveillance, we must ap- Bustos Grijalva Murphy (NC) Cline King (IA) Spano
prove this motion to go to conference. Butterfield Grothman Nadler Cloud Stauber
Latta
Calvert Haaland Napolitano Takano
Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Carbajal Harder (CA) Neal
Comer Lee (CA)
Davidson (OH) Lesko Thompson (PA)
ance of my time. Cárdenas Hartzler Neguse Tiffany
DesJarlais Long
Mr. JORDAN. Madam Speaker, I Carson (IN) Hastings Newhouse Duncan Loudermilk Tipton
yield back the balance of my time. Cartwright Hayes Norcross Emmer Tlaib
Lowenthal
Case Heck Nunes Van Drew
Mr. NADLER. Madam Speaker, I Casten (IL) Higgins (NY) O’Halleran
Engel Luetkemeyer
Estes Marshall Watkins
yield myself the balance of my time. Castor (FL) Hill (AR) Pallone Fleischmann Massie Weber (TX)
Madam Speaker, I repeat what I said Castro (TX) Himes Panetta Flores Mast Westerman
before. We have a choice. The Foreign Chabot Holding Pappas Fortenberry Williams
McClintock
Cheney Horn, Kendra S. Pascrell Fulcher Wilson (SC)
Intelligence Surveillance Act, as every- Meng
Cicilline Horsford Payne Gabbard Wittman
Meuser
body agrees, is not in good shape. FISA Cisneros Houlahan Pelosi Gaetz Miller Wright
is necessary to preserve the security of Clark (MA) Hoyer Perlmutter Garcı́a (IL) Yoho
Moolenaar
Clay Hudson Peters
the United States. I think everyone Cleaver Huffman Peterson
Gianforte Mooney (WV) Zeldin
agrees with that. But we need improve- Clyburn Huizenga Phillips NOT VOTING—25
ments to FISA to make sure that while Cohen Hurd (TX) Pingree
Abraham Hern, Kevin Rooney (FL)
we protect the security of the United Cole Jackson Lee Porter
Brooks (IN) Hollingsworth Sensenbrenner
Collins (GA) Jeffries Price (NC)
States against foreign aggression and Conaway Johnson (GA) Quigley
Buchanan LaHood Steube
foreign subversion, such as the Russian Carter (TX) LaMalfa Walden
Connolly Johnson (SD) Raskin
Costa Lamborn Walker
attempt to subvert our elections 4 Cook Johnson (TX) Reed
Crawford Marchant Walorski
Cooper Joyce (OH) Rice (NY)
years ago, we also must improve FISA Correa Kaptur Richmond
Dunn McHenry Young
to provide greater protections against Gibbs Mitchell
Courtney Katko Roby
Granger Olson
unwarranted surveillance and provide Cox (CA) Keating Rogers (AL)
greater protections for American civil Craig Kelly (IL) Rose (NY)
Crenshaw Kildee Rouda b 1510
liberties and privacy. Crist Kilmer Rouzer
This bill does that. It may not do it Crow Kind Roybal-Allard Mses. HERRERA BEUTLER,
as much as some people want, but it Cuellar King (NY) Ruiz OCASIO-CORTEZ, Messrs. GUTHRIE,
Cunningham Kinzinger Ruppersberger and KIM changed their vote from
goes a heck of a lot further than what Curtis Kirkpatrick Rush
we have now. This bill must be passed Davids (KS) Krishnamoorthi Rutherford ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’
if we are going to have the protections Davis (CA) Kuster (NH) Ryan Messrs. BALDERSON and CONAWAY
of civil liberties that we want. Davis, Danny K. Kustoff (TN) Sánchez changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to
Davis, Rodney Lamb Sarbanes
Madam Speaker, this bill is a decent Dean Langevin Scalise
‘‘yea.’’
balance. I urge its adoption. To do DeFazio Larsen (WA) Scanlon So the motion was agreed to.
that, we have to go to conference. I DeGette Larson (CT) Schakowsky The result of the vote was announced
DeLauro Lawrence Schiff as above recorded.
urge the adoption of the motion to go DelBene Lawson (FL) Schneider
to conference, and I yield back the bal- Delgado Lee (NV) Schrader A motion to reconsider was laid on
ance of my time. Demings Levin (CA) Schrier the table.
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The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. DeSaulnier Levin (MI) Scott (VA) Stated for:
Deutch Lewis Scott, Austin
DEGETTE). Without objection, the pre- Diaz-Balart Lieu, Ted Scott, David
Mr. YOUNG. Madam Speaker, I was unable
vious question is ordered on the mo- Dingell Lipinski Serrano to vote on May 28, 2020. Had I been present,
tion. Doggett Loebsack Sewell (AL) I would have voted ‘‘aye’’ on rollcall No. 115,
Doyle, Michael Lofgren Shalala a motion to disagree to the Senate amend-
There was no objection. F. Lowey Sherman
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Escobar Lucas Sherrill ments and agree to go to conference on H.R.
question is on the motion offered by Eshoo Luján Shimkus 6172.
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H2346 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Mr. ABRAHAM. Madam Speaker, on Thurs- On his 25th combat mission in Viet- in this country that think waiting is
day, May 28, I was unavoidably detained on nam, he was shot down, severely in- not appropriate.
rollcall vote No. 115. Had I been present to jured, and spent the next 7 years as a I am pleased the House has adopted a
vote, I would have voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall vote prisoner of war in the prison known as resolution to allow the committees to
No. 115. the Hanoi Hilton. work remotely, Madam Speaker. I ex-
MEMBERS RECORDED PURSUANT TO HOUSE Many Members have read his book pect to use the coming weeks to get
RESOLUTION 965, 116TH CONGRESS ‘‘Captive Warriors,’’ which describes our committees back up and running so
Barragán Hastings Napolitano the hellish conditions and the courage that they can begin having hearings
(Gallego) (Wasserman (Correa) and fortitude of Sam and his fellow and markups on critical legislation.
Bass (Cicilline) Schultz) Payne As my friend, Mr. SCALISE, knows, we
Heck (Kilmer)
prisoners as they fought to survive.
Bera (Aguilar) (Wasserman
Horsford (Kildee) After serving in the Texas State have a number of must-pass bills that
Blumenauer Schultz)
(Beyer) Huffman (Kildee) Peters (Rice House, Sam was elected to Congress in need to be addressed; the National De-
Bonamici Jayapal (Raskin) (NY)) 1990 and served until January 2019, in- fense Authorization Act, the 12 appro-
Johnson (TX)
(Raskin)
(Jeffries)
Pingree (Kuster cluding, for a time, as acting chairman priation bills, the surface transpor-
Brownley (CA) (NH)) tation bill, and the WRDA bill as well.
Khanna of the Ways and Means Committee.
(Kuster (NH)) Pocan (Raskin)
Cárdenas
(Sherman)
Porter (Wexton) He now goes to join his wonderful As committees begin consideration of
Kirkpatrick these bills, I will be in touch with
(Sánchez)
(Gallego) Price (NC) wife, Shirley, and his son, Bob.
Chu, Judy Krishnamoorthi (Butterfield) Madam Speaker, I know of no one in Members about when they will be
(Takano) (Brown (MD)) Roybal-Allard the House who was more universally scheduled this summer.
Cisneros Lawrence (Sánchez) Madam Speaker, I yield to the gen-
(Houlahan) Ruiz (Aguilar)
admired across the Chamber than Sam
(Kildee) tleman from Louisiana (Mr. SCALISE),
Cohen (Beyer) Lawson (FL) Rush Johnson.
Crist (Murphy (Evans) (Underwood) Sam sacrificed much in service of our the minority whip.
(FL)) Levin (CA) Schneider Nation, but always with courage and Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I
Davis (CA) (Wild) (Kildee) (Houlahan) thank my friend from Maryland for
Levin (MI)
good humor and a deep, deep love of
DeSaulnier Schrader
(Matsui) (Raskin) country. walking through those items.
(O’Halleran)
Deutch (Rice Lewis (Kildee) Schrier (Kilmer) He inspired those of us who worked I first want to start by sharing and
(NY)) Lieu, Ted (Beyer) Serrano (Meng) with him, and his memory will con- associating myself with the comments
Doggett (Raskin) Lipinski (Cooper) Speier (Scanlon) made by my friend from Texas (Mr.
Lofgren (Boyle, tinue to be an inspiration to follow his
Escobar (Garcia Suozzi (Panetta) THORNBERRY) about the loss of our dear
(TX)) Brendan F.) example of service, sacrifice, and love
Tlaib (Dingell) friend, Sam Johnson.
Eshoo Lowenthal
Tonko (Meng) of country.
(Thompson
(Beyer)
Trahan Madam Speaker, I ask that the House Sam and I got to be close friends, and
Lowey (Meng) I can picture him sitting right over
(CA)) (McGovern) observe a moment of silence in mem-
Maloney,
Foster (Beyer)
Carolyn B. Vargas (Keating) ory and in honor of this great Amer- there by General Lafayette’s painting,
Frankel (Kuster (Rose (NY)) Veasey (Beyer) in his scooter, as he was voting and
(NH)) Vela (Gallego)
ican.
McEachin sharing stories with friends in his last
Garamendi (Wexton) Watson Coleman The SPEAKER. Will all Members
(Sherman) McNerney (Pallone) please rise, and those who are in their few months when he served here with
Gonzalez (TX) (Raskin) Welch offices and staff throughout the Cap- us with distinction for so long, and the
(Cuellar) Moore (Beyer) (McGovern) conversations and just the under-
Grijalva (Clay) Mucarsel-Powell
itol, for a moment of silence in honor
Wilson (FL) standing of a giant that we served
Harder (CA) (Wasserman (Hayes) of our dear Sam.
(Haaland) Schultz) with, someone who served our country,
f
f spent 7 years in the Hanoi Hilton, as we
b 1515 talked about.
APPOINTMENT OF CONFEREES ON They never broke him. They probably
H.R. 6172, USA FREEDOM REAU- LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
broke every bone in his body trying,
THORIZATION ACT OF 2020 (Mr. HOYER asked and was given but he and those other brave men in
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without permission to address the House for 1 that prison never once faltered in their
objection, the Chair appoints the fol- minute.) love and dedication to our country and
lowing conferees on H.R. 6172: Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, as we to their family.
Messrs. NADLER, SCHIFF, Ms. LOF- face the crisis that COVID–19 has con- He missed his wife. We know now he
GREN, Messrs. JORDAN, and NUNES. fronted us with, the House must do its is with her and in a special place, and
There was no objection. duty in full and do so in a way that we are all better for having served with
f contributes to the safety and welfare of Sam Johnson. He truly is missed and
our people, not in a way that harms it. was a special friend.
MOMENT OF SILENCE HONORING Members are advised there will be no Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I want
REPRESENTATIVE SAM JOHNSON votes expected in the House next week. to echo the gentleman’s comments. Al-
(Mr. THORNBERRY asked and was Members are further advised that an though the Congressman, the patriot,
given permission to address the House updated 2020 legislative calendar will the hero, did not always vote with me,
for 1 minute.) be released in the coming days. nor I with him, we became good
Mr. THORNBERRY. Madam Speaker, I expect conversations to continue on friends. And I shared with the gen-
yesterday, we lost a former colleague, additional legislation addressing tleman and others in this body a deep
a patriot, and a true American hero. COVID–19 and the legislation we passed respect for who he was as a person, a
Calling the gentleman from Texas, honoring our heroes. In the event that decent man, a patriotic man, a good
Sam Johnson, a hero is not some sort an agreement is reached on a bipar- man and, obviously, as the gentleman
of inflated rhetoric or hyperbole; it is tisan or partisan bill—I don’t know pointed out, a very courageous man as
the best description I know of Sam how an agreement can be reached on a well.
Johnson and his life. partisan bill, but a bipartisan bill— He served many missions, was shot
Born in San Antonio, raised in Dal- then we will make sure that the House down, imprisoned, but they did not
las, a graduate of SMU, Sam then has 72 hours before they need to come break Sam Johnson, nor did they break
served 29 years in the United States back to vote on that legislation. the love he had for his country, and we
Air Force. I am disappointed that Leader honor the service he gave.
He was a fighter pilot, and some of MCCONNELL said, when asked about the Madam Speaker, I yield to the gen-
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those fighter pilot traits came through next phase of coronavirus relief, he tleman from Louisiana.
in everything he did, from how fast he said, I think that’s a decision to be Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I
drove across the highways of Texas to made a month from now. want to thank the Speaker as well for
the way he approached legislation. As we know, we have a lot of people leading that tribute, and I am sure at
Sam was a veteran of the Korean in crisis. We see food lines that are some time in the future we will spend
conflict and, of course, the Vietnam very, very long. We see unemployment an appropriate amount of time here on
war. rising steeply. There are many people the floor where colleagues can share
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2347
those stories about someone that ev- have our daily battles here—just to develop, a therapeutic to mitigate the
erybody ought to know. We know we know the special kind of people that we adverse effects of COVID–19 but also a
have some giants like JOHN LEWIS and get to serve with, and he was surely vaccine to protect us from getting
Sam Johnson who we got to serve with. one. COVID–19.
Sam left and now is no longer with us. Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, as I Until that happens, we also need to
John still is and, obviously, he is going said, what we are going to do over the give additional help to our small busi-
through his own battle, and we pray for next couple of weeks, we have adopted nesses and individuals who are really
John as well. a rule that allows the committees to struggling as unemployment is at his-
But as we have our battles of the day meet even if they can’t be here for toric levels. Over 38 million Ameri-
politically, it is good to remember the health reasons, depending upon what cans—maybe it is now closer to 40 mil-
special people that get to make up this the status is in D.C. and the Capitol, lion Americans—are without jobs. We
body and become part of this great in- where it is around the country, includ- have given them assistance, and we
stitution in which we have the honor to ing transportation. need to give them some more.
serve. So I appreciate the Speaker and The rule that we adopted provides That is where we stand now, and we
the leader allowing us to have that mo- that committees must have, in order to will operate with an intent in mind of
ment. conduct virtual or hybrid hearings, a getting the business of the House done,
Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I yield practice session, then two hearings be- in addition to the extraordinary work
to the gentlewoman from California fore they go to a markup. that we have done on five responses
(Ms. PELOSI). So obviously, if we are going to work now from the House on the effects that
Ms. PELOSI. I thank the gentleman on this floor, we need product and, ob- the coronavirus has caused in this
for yielding. It is a sad day for us, but viously, product comes from the com- country both to human beings’ health
what a joy for all of us to have served mittees. And so I am very hopeful that and to the health of our economy.
with Sam Johnson, a bona fide Amer- the committees will be getting up and Madam Speaker, I yield to the gen-
ican hero, to serve with him in the running at top speed in many respects. tleman from Louisiana.
Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I
Congress. And, of course, the committees have
I appreciate that the gentleman from thank the gentleman for yielding.
been working so very hard, and the Madam Speaker, we have worked to-
Louisiana (Mr. SCALISE) mentioned Members have been working so very gether to help try to address the prob-
him and JOHN LEWIS in the same sen- hard, in my view, on both sides of the lems within our country, both eco-
tence, because I had the privilege— aisle, as they have been home and talk- nomically and the health side, small
JOHN LARSON set up a Heroes Night, a ing to their hospitals, talking to their businesses, medium-sized businesses,
bipartisan Heroes Night, and I had the governors and their county commis- large businesses, and State and local
privilege of giving Sam the award that sioners and their local folks, nursing governments.
night as a true hero. home administrators, so many people Trillions of dollars have already been
He always beamed when he talked that we have kept in touch with spent. When you think just about the
about Shirley, and he loved the chil- through these weeks to see what we hundreds of billions of dollars that we
dren, his son, Bob. Now he is with could do to assist them with whatever sent to States through various means,
them, with Shirley and Bob. they needed. whether it is direct aid, the $150 billion
This was a very special person. I was
mentioning to the distinguished whip b 1530 package that we have sent to States,
we see that each State got a large
earlier that we were there when the The committees will be getting up to
share of that money, billions of dollars
room was named for him. We were speed, and they will be qualifying for
in some cases for each State.
there when his picture was hung. He al- having hearings. I expect work product I don’t know one State that has spent
ways wanted us all around him to cele- to be coming later this month, and we all of their allotment. Many are work-
brate the recognition that he received will be giving notice in the near term ing to try to figure out if they are
so that he could boast of his biparti- on a longer term schedule. But the going to help local governments or not.
sanship and his patriotism, which we House will not be in session next week, It was surely our intention here that it
all admired. and we will be looking at how the com- wouldn’t just be for States, that 45 per-
I was mentioning to the distin- mittees are proceeding from that point cent of that money should be available
guished whip and Mr. THORNBERRY and on. for local governments as well. I would
others that on one of those occasions We will give, as I said, as we have in urge Governors to respect that intent
he had a fellow prisoner of war there the past, 72 hours’ notice to Members of this body.
with him, and that bond is something when and if we have to come back. Rather than continuing to look to
so beyond anything we can imagine. I want to again say also that we are Washington, I think States need to
Imagine the strength, the courage, the very hopeful that our Republican col- start looking within and saying: How
patriotism, just the faith in God that league will engage in the matters that can we work to safely reopen our
he had. were included in the HEROES bill be- States, and how have other States done
So I thank the gentleman for the op- cause our States are struggling. I know it successfully if other States are be-
portunity to share some personal com- my State is a relatively wealthy State, hind?
ments about a really great man; al- but its revenues are off 20, 25 percent. I We have models out there. That is
ways friendly, always smiling, always don’t know what Louisiana’s position why we always say the States are the
teasing about political differences but, is, but I am sure they are struggling as great incubators of democracy. We all
as always, just being a model of great- well. Municipalities are struggling, cit- have smart people in this country who
ness to all of us. ies are struggling, and counties are are figuring this out. States that are
Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, if struggling from the revenue reduction reopening successfully that aren’t see-
anybody wants to have a good read, his that is a direct result of COVID–19. So, ing spikes in their hospitals have done
book, ‘‘Captive Warriors,’’ tells the we are trying to help those States. things and used protocols working off
story of those years in the Hanoi Hil- In addition, of course, we invested of guidance from the Centers for Dis-
ton; not only the unbreakable bond of substantial sums in testing, isolating, ease Control and Prevention to suc-
those heroes that he served in that tracing, and treating individuals who cessfully get their economies back
prison with, but also the unbreakable have COVID, and we need to follow up open again.
love between he and Shirley. She never on whom they have contacted so that No economy is back open at the level
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wavered from her love of him, 7 years we can make sure that they isolate it needs to be, and that is why we need
removed, while some of that time she themselves because the only way we to encourage everybody to safely re-
didn’t even know if he was alive. are going to get a handle on this is to open so that the real answer to States
He loved her till the day she died and make sure we reduce the transition that have budget problems is to start
till the day he died because he mourned from one to the other. getting their economies going again;
her death every day since, and it was We are also hopeful that we will de- get people back to work again; get peo-
something for all of us—again, as we velop, and there is money in there to ple out having their checkups with
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H2348 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
their doctors again, their immuniza- ketball Association talking about play- This shouldn’t have been a partisan
tions for the children who aren’t get- ing games again, whether or not there exercise. I know early on we talked
ting immunized, the cancer treat- are fans in the stands. When you talk about trying to find a way to conduct
ments, the mammograms, and the about a sport that can’t exercise social our business where both parties would
colonoscopies that were being skipped distancing, they are working on proto- agree, and the minority leader and the
for months. We are seeing studies that cols right now to test players and to Speaker were talking about doing that,
are coming out from very well-re- allow games to go on. We all know the and we thought that would be how it
spected health experts who are talking physical nature of a sport like basket- would end up. Of course, that wasn’t
about the real health danger of having ball or even football. Hockey is talking what happened with the proxy voting.
shut-ins and people not getting out about coming back. NASCAR is al- But even my friend just mentioned
again. ready racing again. that if somebody proxy voted, then it
We have to weigh all of this, and we As all of these things are happening would be for health reasons. Yet, yes-
have to keep encouraging the great and these ideas and these great ways to terday, the first time where this new
progress we are seeing from some of safely get different parts of our econ- experiment that has never been done in
these great drug companies here in omy open again, we don’t even know over 230 years was conducted, there
America that are working on a cure, what the schedule of the House is and were Members who voted by proxy
that are finding therapies that are ef- when the House will actually be back signing a document saying that they
fective for COVID–19 with the help, by voting again. couldn’t be here to physically attend
the way, of some of those trillions of The Armed Services Committee proceedings, yet it turns out they were
dollars that we have spent here in could be in a large room in the Capitol in other places. In some cases, it took
Washington to find, hopefully, a vac- that is sitting vacant right now, debat- them longer to get to a rocket launch
cine. Even Dr. Fauci is talking about ing the National Defense Authorization than it would have taken them to get
the possibility of a vaccine being avail- Act, so we don’t get caught bringing up here to the United States Capitol, in
able soon. We need to make sure that legislation at the midnight hour. We clear violation of the intent of proxy
we are working to help ramp up pro- can actually start working on that voting. That literally was just on the
duction when that is found so that we now. That work can be done here in first day.
can make it available to anyone who Washington. It doesn’t have to be done I don’t know if the gentleman is
wants to take it. remotely. going to revisit proxy voting. But,
We need to be also focused on holding These are the concerns that we would clearly, we have seen most people can
China accountable. We need to be fo- ask: Is there going to be a time when come here and do the work. Even some
cused on bringing production back to the majority leader would put out a who chose not to could have been here.
America of PPE, which was in short new schedule that actually shows what What message does that send to the
supply in those critical weeks after we our voting pattern will be? country when we should be the ones
found out China, while they were lying We know, obviously, when you look leading the way to safely reopen?
at May, April, and even June, clearly, Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I think
to the world about this disease, with
that has changed. But at some point, the country is distancing itself as well.
the WHO joining in with them, was
I don’t know whether my friend drove
stopping and blocking the export of will it be mid-June? Will it be July?
Again, if NBA players can be playing to work today, but there are hardly
PPE, which they make the lion’s share
basketball in July, can’t we have a reg- any cars on the street. There are hard-
of, including American companies in
ular schedule by then that the House ly any cars on the street in New York.
China that weren’t even allowed to sell The reason is because people are taking
PPE back to us when they had orders will be conducting business?
We have seen the Spanish flu, and the advice of the government and prac-
in place to do so. ticing social distancing.
So, we should be investigating that. I people had to get here with horses and
We think that makes sense. We think
am sorry that that is not happening buggies, yet they figured out how to do
that is consistent with medical advice,
here. it.
and that is what we have been doing.
We should be addressing how we can Can we lead the way again in show- It is very nice to say, well, they
bring more of that manufacturing back ing people how to safely do our busi- could have been here, but there are a
to America to create new jobs for ness with a consistent schedule that lot of West Coast Members who have to
Americans making our own protective right now doesn’t exist? get on airplanes. Some of those air-
equipment for our frontline workers Mr. HOYER. The answer is yes. We planes now, because there are so few
like doctors and nurses. Unfortunately, are going to have out a fuller schedule flights, are very crowded, and people
that focus hasn’t been there. in the near term. But we have to find are concerned because they are not
But the real issue is: What should out how our committees can operate. practicing social distancing.
Congress’ role be in this? Shouldn’t I want to say, regarding the national When I am speaking, I don’t wear a
Congress be leading the way in showing defense authorization bill, Members on mask. But if you see me in the Capitol
people how to safely reopen and do our both sides of the aisle have been work- and getting into my car, I have a mask
work? ing very, very hard at a distance, on on. I think we are setting an example.
While we have had only a limited the phone, and in other ways. So, I ex- I think we are setting an example of
number of opportunities to come back pect them to be ready to come to the how you distance here on this floor,
here and vote directly on the House floor this summer, and we are going to which we are all practicing right now.
floor, it has been a smooth process. It pass that bill, we think, before the So, I think the House is setting a
has been a process that has been safe summer break. That is for certain. good example of understanding that it
for Members, staggered votes where so- Madam Speaker, I yield to my friend. is not business as usual. When you
cial distancing, which is still the Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, if I walk down the street and people are
standard that everybody should be could ask the gentleman on the voting wearing masks, you know it is not
practicing, is able to be exercised in a and whether it is in committee, clear- business as usual. You know it is not
safe and effective way. ly, there are rooms here in the Cap- the America of 3 or 4 months ago,
Clearly, we had a very big difference itol—we have seen the Rules Com- Madam Speaker.
on the proxy voting, and I think we mittee utilize the Ways and Means In any event, I think we are going to
have already seen abuses of that proc- Committee where they are able to be proceed. We have provided to do the
ess. But the real issue is: When are we spread out at distances well beyond the business of the American people. We
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
going to get back to a functioning, reg- safe standards of social distancing, well did that just in the last 2 days. We
ular schedule for the House of Rep- beyond 6 feet where you can have in- passed a number of very important
resentatives? person hearings where the back and bills, important bills to small business
A major company here, Disney, an- forth of a debate and the votes that in particular.
nounced yesterday they are going to would go with it where a proxy vote I was sorry that we didn’t resolve the
start opening their parks again in a doesn’t really fit that situation can FISA question, but we did go to con-
few weeks. You have the National Bas- occur. I would hope that we do that. ference. We will see what happens on
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2349
that. We have passed, as the gentleman look at the message that we are trying elect us, the people who make this
mentioned earlier, extraordinary legis- to send. And, yes, there are some country work so that we can come
lation through this House over the last places that you don’t have traffic on back here and represent them better.
2 months to ensure that the American the road because their officials have But we do have to come back here
people got the help they needed and chosen not to open as aggressively as and do the work. You can’t phone it in
that the economics of our country will others, using safety protocols. sometimes. You can’t do that re-
undergird it to the extent we could. So, No one is talking about compro- motely. There are certain parts of our
we have done a lot of work. mising safety, but there are many job where we actually have to be here.
I want to say this: I think we do a States that have shown how to safely In the rough-and-tumble of a legisla-
disservice to our Members and to this reopen on a much wider scale where tive process, things change on the fly;
institution if we go home and pretend you can get people back out doing the and if you are back home or going to
that Members somehow aren’t working things that they want to do again, and some other event somewhere else be-
because they are not physically in this that is the real issue. You are watching cause you choose not to come here, it
room. I don’t know, I presume my aspects of the private sector, you are is kind of hard to say you gave your
friend’s Members—but I tell you, even watching other levels of govern- proxy to somebody and then things
Madam Speaker, the Members on my ment, large cities, large States that change 2 minutes before a vote. It is
side of the aisle are working around are reopening and doing it successfully, going to be hard for that person to
the clock and communicating around not overrunning their hospitals. know how to change their vote by
the clock. Most of our hospitals are telling us proxy when they are not here.
That bill that we passed in a bipar- they want more patients. They want So there are flaws in there that don’t
tisan way, we took a lot of time, days the people who normally would be get- need to be there because we have prov-
and days and days and days of hours- ting their checkups and immunizations en we can be here. I just hope that that
and hours- and hours-long conversa- and even hip replacements and things is taken into account when the new
tions to get to a consensus on what that are part of their life cycle, their schedule is being worked out, and,
ought to be in that bill, and we passed quality of life, and their ability to live again, hopefully released as soon as
it in a bipartisan way. with cancer treatments and things like possible so that as other people and in-
So, my presumption is my friend did that that aren’t being done. There are dustries and groups are starting to
the same. I don’t know; I was not on people dying right now because they show how they are going to come back
my friend’s phone calls. But you do a are not being tended to. safely, we can do the same thing—not
disservice, I think—I don’t mean you In my home parish, I actually talked last. Clearly, we are not going to be
personally. But we do a disservice to to my coroner about this. He took a 6- first now, but hopefully, as other peo-
allow the President or anybody else— week period—just 2 weeks ago, took a ple are making those decisions, we can
nobody is on vacation. People are 6-week period and took that exact 6- be part of that, not at the tail end of it.
working harder now than if we didn’t week period a year ago, and there was Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I
have this coronavirus is my observa- a 42 percent increase in non-COVID-re- thank the gentleman, and I yield back
tion. lated deaths, just in my home parish. the balance of my time.
I am hopeful that we will move on. I This year, more—Madam Speaker, 42 f
am hopeful that we will be back to percent increase—because people aren’t
going out, aren’t going to the doctor. If COVID–19, STRATEGIC TESTING
business as usual and as soon as pos-
they had chest pains, they weren’t FOR WORKERS
sible—‘‘possible’’ is the operative
word—with the advice of our Capitol going to a doctor because the doctor’s (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given
physician, with the advice of the ad- office is closed, where they could catch permission to address the House for 1
ministration, and my own Governor. it, and so they were dying in their minute and to revise and extend her re-
My friend talked about States. I have house. marks.)
a Republican Governor, Governor These are real numbers from the cor- Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, as of
Hogan, whose father was one of my oner. I mean, there is a problem that is yesterday, the United States death toll
predecessors. I know he is still very created by not allowing people to go from COVID–19 has reached over 100,000
cautious and urging caution for our about their lives again in a safe way. precious lives.
citizens. So we ought to be leading the way, Recent headlines tell the story of
Madam Speaker, unless the gen- leading the way to show people how to COVID–19 risks as workers report to
tleman has something further, I am do it. And, again, we have had votes work with no testing. The Toledo Blade
prepared to yield back the balance of here on the House floor before proxy reports: ‘‘Coronavirus Strikes Fermi 2
my time. voting in the midst of this pandemic, Nuclear Plant During Refueling.’’ Reu-
and it went very smoothly. And if ters reports: ‘‘All Three Detroit Auto-
b 1545 makers Had Workers Test Positive for
there are better ways we can find to do
Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I it, we will do it. COVID–19 Since Plants Reopened.’’ And
would just say that, clearly, we have a But we followed all the protocols of Willamette Week reports: ‘‘The Re-
disagreement on how business should the Attending Physician. I didn’t hear opening of Vancouver, Washington, Is
be conducted on the House floor, spe- of any Members complaining about On Hold as 65 Workers Test Positive for
cifically as it relates to proxy voting that process. Everybody went about it COVID–19 at a Fruit Processing Facil-
and whether or not we can be here their own way, practicing the social ity.’’
physically doing the job. And, clearly, distancing that we all encourage. Yet Madam Speaker, I include in the
when we are at home in our districts, we are not doing that on a consistent RECORD the articles I mentioned.
we are finding other ways to get work basis, and that doesn’t send the right [From the Blade, Apr. 8, 2020]
done, to communicate with constitu- message. CORONAVIRUS STRIKES FERMI 2 NUCLEAR
ents, to communicate with people all As the gentleman reworks the sched- PLANT DURING REFUELING; UTILITY KEEPS
around the Nation. Using technology, ule, and I hope it is done soon, I hope WORKING
it has definitely helped the ability for it takes into account the fact that it is (By Tom Henry)
us to do it, but it is not the same thing important for us to show the rest of the NEWPORT, MICH.—An undisclosed number
as when we are here. country that we can be here doing our of coronavirus cases have been documented
The other side of that, because one job. inside Fermi 2 during the nuclear plant’s lat-
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
piece of it is the ability to be here— Yes, there are things that we are est refueling outage.
and, clearly, we have the ability to be going to do remotely. There are things But owner-operator DTE Energy said it be-
lieves it has enough precautions in place now
here. There are flights. If somebody is we always do remotely. If we are on a
to complete the work and get the plant re-
not comfortable flying, they used to 3-week schedule in D.C. and 1 week started in the coming weeks.
take horse and buggy. They didn’t have back home in our districts, it is impor- In a statement, DTE spokesman Stephen
planes, and yet they found a way to get tant that we go back home to stay in R. Tait said the company ‘‘can confirm that
here in tougher times. But then you touch with the people who actually we have had employees test positive, but are
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H2350 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
not giving out numbers, locations or names eration after the spring 2020 outage,’’ Ms. ed positive and asking them to quarantine
at this time.’’ Mitlyng said. for 14 days.
Media reports showed the first worker test- Fermi 2, one of Michigan’s largest employ- Firestone processes frozen fruit mostly
ed positive about the same time the refuel- ers, is about 30 miles south of Detroit, which berries. Food processing plants have been
ing outage began on March 21. A Detroit tel- is now one of America’s hot spots for the epicenters of COVID–19 outbreaks across the
evision station reported at least two more coronavirus pandemic. U.S., in part because social distancing is dif-
positive cases were documented within days ficult on assembly-line floors.
of that. [From Reuters, May 27, 2020] The facility told The Oregonian it’s un-
DTE won’t say for the record when it ex- aware of any workers who have been hos-
ALL THREE DETROIT AUTOMAKERS HAD WORK-
pects to complete Fermi 2’s outage. pitalized because of the virus.
ERS TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID–19 SINCE
But many similar operations—which once ‘‘While this outbreak is unfortunate, our
PLANTS REOPENED
took six weeks or longer—have been short- response demonstrates we have the con-
ened to about a month in recent years. Utili- DETROIT.—In the week since U.S. auto fac- fidence and capability to respond to situa-
ties lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in tories reopened after coronavirus lockdowns, tions like this,’’ Dr. Alan Melnick, the Clark
potential electricity sales each day nuclear workers at all three Detroit automakers County health officer, said in a press release.
plants sit idle. have tested positive for COVID–19 but only
Nuclear plants are refueled every 18 to 24 Ford Motor Co has temporarily closed [From the New York Times, May 25, 2020]
months, depending on the type of uranium plants.
The U.S. auto industry reopened many ‘THIS IS NOT THE HUNGER GAMES’: NATIONAL
used in their reactor cores.
Fermi 2, located along western Lake Erie plants last week after a two-month shut- TESTING STRATEGY DRAWS CONCERNS
in northern Monroe County’s Frenchtown down due to the global pandemic. To ensure (By Apoorva Mandavilli and Catie
Township, is one of many nuclear plants safety during the outbreak, companies im- Edmondson)
across the United States scheduled to be re- posed new safety measures, including screen- The Trump administration’s new testing
fueled during the spring or fall of 2020, the ing employees, use of face masks and social strategy, released Sunday to Congress, holds
two seasons when demand for electricity is distancing. individual states responsible for planning
lowest. Ford paused production at its Claycomo, and carrying out all coronavirus testing,
Energy Harbor’s Davis-Besse nuclear plant Missouri, plant for an hour on Tuesday after while planning to provide some supplies
along the Lake Erie shoreline in rural Ot- a worker tested positive. Work resumed at needed for the tests.
tawa County recently completed its latest the plant, which builds the F–150 pickup The proposal also says existing testing ca-
refueling. truck and Transit van, without workers pacity, if properly targeted, is sufficient to
Both plants are about 30 miles from down- being sent home following a deep cleaning, contain the outbreak. But epidemiologists
town Toledo. Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker said Wednes- say that amount of testing is orders of mag-
The coronavirus pandemic has, of course, day. nitude lower than many of them believe the
complicated those efforts this year. General Motors Co and Fiat Chrysler Auto- country needs.
To help keep refuelings on schedule, the mobiles NV (FCA) said Wednesday they have The report cements a stance that has frus-
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission last had workers test positive since the restart, trated governors in both parties, following
month allowed for an exemption from rules but have not been forced to idle plants. They the administration’s announcement last
which limit the number of consecutive hours did not disclose the number of workers af- month that the federal government should
workers are allowed to be inside the plant at fected. be considered ‘‘the supplier of last resort’’
a time. The agency said in a March 28 letter On Wednesday, a union leader at Ford’s and that states should develop their own
to the Washington-based Nuclear Energy In- Kentucky Truck Plant said on Twitter a testing plans.
stitute that it will consider such requests on worker there tested positive, but had not ‘‘For months, it was a tennis game, it was
a case-by-case basis, and that exemptions worked since May 21. Felker said the plant going back and forth between the feds and
will be limited to 60 days. never closed. the states, and it’s now landed with the
‘‘We are aware of the NRC’s willingness to states,’’ said Scott Becker, executive direc-
Last week, Ford closed two assembly
relax some rules for overtime at plants if tor of the Association of Public Health Lab-
plants, due to a positive test at its Dearborn,
there is a need,’’ Mr. Tait said. ‘‘At this oratories.
Michigan, factory and a parts shortage due
time, we have not requested any variances.’’ Mr. Becker noted that the federal govern-
to a positive test at a supplier that closed
The NRC has ‘‘no immediate concerns in
the Chicago plant. It had marked the second ment plans to distribute some testing sup-
this area,’’ Viktoria Mitlyng, agency spokes-
consecutive day for closures in Chicago fol- plies, including swabs and viral transport
man, said. ‘‘We are communicating regularly
lowing two positive tests. media, and to store test kits in the strategic
with Fermi staff to discuss current activities
United Auto Workers Local 600, which rep- national stockpile. ‘‘That’s actually quite
and future plans, including staffing, medical
resents hourly workers in Dearborn, last significant,’’ he said. ‘‘That’s a positive
screening, reductions in nonessential main-
week demanded testing for every worker step.’’
tenance work, and other related matters.’’
there and that Ford shut down the plant for The Department of Health and Human
In nearly all refuelings, including at those
24 hours after a positive test. Ford said the Services prepared the strategy, which meets
at Fermi 2 and Davis-Besse, hundreds of spe-
safety of its workers is a top priority and requirements under the Paycheck Protection
cialized, out-of-state contractors augment
cited the safety measures it has developed in Program and Health Care Enhancement Act,
the regular plant workforces, often resulting
conjunction with the UAW. signed into law by President Trump on April
in 1,000 or more workers assigned to any
In Mexico, Ford told workers it was tar- 24, that federal agencies come up with a stra-
given site at a time. Work is usually divided
geting a May 28 restart at its Hermosillo tegic testing plan within 30 days. It was re-
into eight-hour shifts, with activity occur-
plant. GM and FCA have restarted oper- ported earlier by The Washington Post.
ring 24 hours a day.
Officials have noted those contractors ations in Mexico. Mr. Becker, public health experts and
move throughout the country from job to Democratic leaders panned the proposal, say-
job, bringing with them the potential of car- [From wweek.com, May 25, 2020] ing the strategy runs the risk of states com-
rying viruses outside of the sites they last THE REOPENING OF VANCOUVER, WASH., IS ON peting with one another and may create deep
worked. HOLD AS 65 WORKERS TEST POSITIVE FOR inequities among them.
Monroe-area resident Michael J. Keegan, a The strategy mirrors a divide that has
COVID–19 AT A FRUIT PROCESSING FACILITY
longtime activist associated with the activ- played out in Congress for months. As they
(By Tess Riski) negotiated the virus relief bill in March,
ist group Don’t Waste Michigan, said he wor-
ries the NRC will again allow DTE to post- Clark County’s application to move into Democratic lawmakers pushed to require the
pone some of the work planned for the sub- Phase 2 of reopening has been put on pause. administration to submit this national test-
merged portion of Fermi 2’s pressure sup- The COVID–19 outbreak at a fruit proc- ing plan to Congress. Republicans resisted,
pression chamber, also referred to as the essing plant in Vancouver, Wash., climbed saying those decisions belonged to each
torus. from 38 workers Friday to 65 employees Mon- state.
The utility came to an agreement with the day. The Oregonian first reported. Mr. Becker and others said it’s reasonable
NRC to fix degraded coating there, a situa- The facility, called Firestone Pacific to expect states to implement some aspects
tion that has lingered for 31 years. It was Foods, halted production May 19. On May 23, of the testing, such as designating test sites.
first identified in 1989, the NRC has said. Washington state health officials suspended But acquiring tests involves reliance on na-
One of the concerns is that loose paint Clark County’s request to enter Phase 2 of tional and international supply chains—
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chips in drains could make it difficult for the state’s reopening plan due to the out- which are challenging for many states to
vital reactor coolant pumps to move water break. navigate.
in the event of an emergency. The state health department cited the ‘‘That’s our biggest question, that’s our
The NRC told DTE it will grant the util- Firestone outbreak as its reason for sus- biggest concern, is the robustness of the sup-
ity’s request to remove only coatings found pending Vancouver’s reopening. ply chain, which is critical,’’ Mr. Becker
to be degraded through inspections. The county health department said in a said. ‘‘You can’t leave it up to the states to
‘‘If degraded coating is found, they will re- press release Saturdav that it is identifying do it for themselves. This is not the Hunger
move it prior to returning the reactor to op- and notifying close contacts of all who test- Games.’’
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2351
In a joint statement on Monday, Speaker with last week’s dust-up over the mixing of It’s not clear if antibody tests are useful
Nancy Pelosi; Senator Chuck Schumer, the test results for active infection with serol- for testing of health care workers to deter-
Democratic leader; Representative Frank ogy. ‘‘This is not C.D.C.’s shining moment,’’ mine immune status, according to the re-
Pallone, Democratic chairman of the House he said. port.
Energy and Commerce Committee; and Sen- Governors have bristled at claims from the ‘‘We believe that greatly expanding
ator Patty Murray, the ranking Democrat on administration that the supply of tests was SARSCoV–2 testing is a critical element in
the Senate’s health committee, said the adequate, routinely asking for more federal our response to COVID–19,’’ the report reads.
Trump administration was not taking re- assistance. Some states have ultimately de- ‘‘For testing to be maximally effective, co-
sponsibility for ramping up national testing cided to negotiate directly with suppliers to ordination across the system and across ju-
capacity. obtain test kits. risdictions is necessary. Ideally, this re-
‘‘This disappointing report confirms that Federal virus relief legislation required quires federal guidance, leadership and sup-
President Trump’s national testing strategy states to release their individual testing port, with strong jurisdictional buy-in at the
is to deny the truth that there aren’t enough plans last week, but they requested an exten- state and local levels.’’
tests and supplies, reject responsibility and sion to later this week. If elements of those The report calls on the US Department of
dump the burden onto the states,’’ the law- state plans prove promising, Mr. Becker said, Health and Human Services to appoint a
makers said. ‘‘In this document, the Trump the federal strategy could be revised or panel to oversee and organize testing. ‘‘The
administration again attempts to paint a merged with them. panel should include representatives from
rosy picture about testing while experts con- public health, clinical laboratory, and medi-
tinue to warn the country is far short of [From CNN, May 21, 2020] cine; the laboratory testing research and de-
what we need.’’ CORONAVIRUS TESTING IS ‘A MESS’ IN THE US, velopment, marketing, and product support
Experts also took issue with the report’s REPORT SAYS industries; ethicists; legal scholars; and
assertion that continuing to test only about elected officials,’’ it says.
(By Maggie Fox) Osterholm noted that some states are com-
300,000 people a day, by targeting only those
likely to be positive, would be enough to Coronavirus testing in the United States is bining data from diagnostic tests and anti-
contain the outbreak. disorganized and needs coordination at the body tests to make estimates about how
‘‘On the face of it, the idea that 300,000 national level, infectious disease experts said many people have been infected. The Food
tests a day is enough for America is absurd,’’ in a new report released Wednesday. and Drug Administration advises against
said Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Right now, testing is not accurate enough using tests in this way and so does
Global Health Institute. to use alone to make most decisions, includ- Osterholm. ‘‘You need to do the right test at
He offered a quick rundown of the numbers ing who should go back to work or to school, the right time to get the right result,’’ he
to illustrate the estimate’s inadequacy. Most the team at the University of Minnesota said. ‘‘Nobody is thinking through that.’’
hospitals nationwide now test everyone who said. Plus, there’s not enough coordination to
is admitted for any reason, roughly 100,000 ‘‘It’s a mess out there,’’ Mike Osterholm, ensure that states have the testing supplies
tests each day, fearing that they may be head of the university’s Center for Infectious they need. This is a system and if a system
asymptomatic and yet still spreading the Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP), breaks down anywhere, it breaks down ev-
virus. Testing the 1.6 million residents of which issued the report, told CNN. erywhere,’’ Osterholm said.
nursing homes—known to be at high risk of ‘‘Testing is very, very important, but we’re ‘‘What good are the test results if you
coronavirus infection—and workers every not doing the right testing.’’ can’t trust them?’’
two weeks would require 150,000 more tests The number of tests that have been com-
each day. Add high-risk places like pleted—numbers widely reported by states [From the New York Times, May 25, 2020]
meatpacking plants that need regular test- and by the White House—show only part of AS MEATPACKING PLANTS REOPEN, DATA
ing, and the numbers rapidly build. the picture, the report reads. ABOUT WORKER ILLNESS REMAINS ELUSIVE
‘‘Without having tested a single person for ‘‘The data is really kind of screwed up,’’ (By Michael Corkery, David Yaffe-Bellany
symptoms of Covid, we would quickly ex- Osterholm said. ‘‘It’s because the public and Derek Kravitz)
haust our entire national supply of testing if health system is overwhelmed.’’ The Smithfield Foods plant in Tar Heel,
all we have is 300,000 tests per day,’’ he said. The report has some specific recommenda- N.C., is one of the world’s largest pork proc-
The H.H.S. report noted that an analysis tions for diagnostic tests that check to see if essing facilities, employing about 4,500 peo-
by the Safra Center at Harvard estimated someone is currently infected with ple and slaughtering roughly 30,000 pigs a
the need at more than three million tests per coronavirus. day at its peak.
day. But the federal report said that esti- Testing is most useful for clinical care of And like more than 100 other meat plants
mate was based on faulty assumptions. patients, for disease surveillance and contact across the United States, the facility has
The Safra authors who crafted the esti- tracing and for monitoring frontline workers seen a substantial number of coronavirus
mate said that the federal report had cherry- such as emergency responders, doctors and cases. But the exact number of workers in
picked one simple example from their anal- nurses who may have been exposed, the re- Tar Heel who have tested positive is any-
ysis without considering other evidence. port recommends. People with symptoms one’s guess.
‘‘We ran multiple models, all of which should also be tested, it says. Smithfield would not provide any data
pointed to the same order of magnitude,’’ But coronavirus testing is not accurate when asked about the number of illnesses at
said Danielle Allen, director of the Safra enough yet to use in many other ways, the the plant. Neither would state or local
Center. ‘‘They’ve selected one non-primary CIDRAP team said. health officials.
model in an appendix and selectively ad- It recommends against: ‘‘There has been a stigma associated with
justed assumptions to generate a different Universal testing in hospital settings the virus,’’ said Teresa Duncan, the director
number.’’ Testing in schools or other low-risk set- of the health department in Bladen County,
Dr. Allen said millions of daily tests would tings where the plant is located. ‘‘So we’re trying
be required to have 4 percent of people test Widespread community-based testing to protect privacy.’’
positive with the coronavirus—the level they Antibody tests to decide who goes back to Along with nursing homes and prisons,
say is needed to halt the spread of the virus. work meatpacking facilities have proven to be
The administration’s target, 10 percent, Immunity passports places where the virus spreads rapidly. But
would allow only for mitigation. It might be useful to test asymptomatic as dozens of plants that closed because of
‘‘There is not a single country that I’m people in long-term care facilities in some outbreaks begin reopening, meat companies’
aware of that achieved disease suppression cases because they are likely to have many reluctance to disclose detailed case counts
with a positivity rate of 10 percent,’’ she cases, the report said. ‘‘Asymptomatic shed- makes it difficult to tell whether the con-
said. ding of the virus may be detected with a mo- tagion is contained or new cases are emerg-
And 300,000 daily tests would be insuffi- lecular test (which looks for the virus itself) ing even with new safety measures in place.
cient even for mitigation, Dr. Jha said, esti- or an antigen test (which looks for impor- The Centers for Disease Control and Preven-
mating that would require at least 900,000 tant pieces of the virus). It is not yet clear tion said there were nearly 5,000
tests per day. where, when and how asymptomatic individ- meatpacking workers infected with the virus
The proposal also leaves it to states to uals should be tested.’’ as of the end of last month. But the non-
plan for contact tracing and isolation, rap- The report also says that antibody tests profit group Food & Environment Reporting
idly identify new clusters of coronavirus in- should be used only with caution. These Network estimated last week that the num-
fection and adopt new technologies. It says tests check the blood for evidence of an im- ber has climbed to more than 17,000. There
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the federal government is ‘‘supporting and mune response to the virus, and indicate have been 66 meatpacking deaths, the group
encouraging’’ states to rely heavily on guid- that someone has been infected for some said.
ance from the Centers for Disease Control days or has even cleared an infection. They And the outbreaks may be even more ex-
and Prevention. are most useful for identifying donors of tensive.
However, the C.D.C. has been slow to re- plasma used to treat patients or for deciding For weeks, local officials received con-
lease guidance for states during this out- on how to manage patients when standard flicting signals from state leaders and
break, Dr. Jha said. And the agency fumbled diagnostic tests are negative, the report meatpacking companies about how much in-
its role in testing strategy, most recently says. formation to release, according to internal
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H2352 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
emails from government health agencies ob- get in a position where we were overstepping to the Grand Island plant were infected. By
tained through public records requests by our bounds,’’ he said. May 5, at least 328 employees had tested
Columbia University’s Brown Institute for On May 5, the state health department, positive, according to the emails from Grand
Media Innovation and provided to The New which ultimately worked with Tyson to test Island, some of which were previously re-
York Times. The mixed messages left many employees, said 730 workers, or 58 percent of ported by ProPublica.
workers and their communities in the dark the plant’s work force, had tested positive A spokesman for JBS, Cameron Bruett,
about the extent of the spread in parts of for the virus. About two weeks ago, Tyson said the company did not want to publicize
Iowa, Nebraska and Colorado. started to disclose the number of the number of positive cases at the plant be-
The emails also reveal the deference some coronavirus cases at a handful of its plants cause little testing was being conducted in
county officials have shown toward the giant around the country where there has been the broader area. Releasing the data, he said,
meatpacking companies and how little power widespread testing. ‘‘would distort any one company’s role in
they have in pushing the companies to stem In North Carolina, workers and community community spread.’’
outbreaks. advocates in the Tar Heel area started to The tussle over whether plants should test
‘‘Bad news spreads way faster than the raise the alarm in April, as local news out- workers has stretched for months in some
truth,’’ said a county health official in Colo- lets reported a string of infections linked to states, creating critical delays in isolating
rado of an outbreak at a Cargill plant, ac- the Smithfield plant. infected workers. Local health authorities
cording to notes from a conference call last In neighboring Robeson County, 59 resi- concede that asymptomatic employees are
month. ‘‘At this point, we are not doing any- dents who work at the Tar Heel facility have still coming to work with the virus, fueling
thing to cast them in a bad light. Will not become infected, out of a total of 669 cases in the spread.
throw them to the Press.’’ the community, according to Melissa Pack- As recently as May 14, health officials in
Questions about the transparency of gov- er, the county’s assistant health director. Wyandotte County, Kan., warned that the
ernments and companies about the But like the rest of the public, Ms. Packer virus was continuing to spread inside a Na-
coronavirus extend far beyond meatpacking. does not know the full extent of the out- tional Beef plant.
Chinese officials have been widely criticized break at the plant. ‘‘The outbreak has gone on for a month,’’
for not fully disclosing the extent of the In conversations with state officials this a county epidemiologist said in an email to
virus’s spread within their borders. And in month, Ms. Packer said, a number of county her colleagues.
the United States, President Trump has health directors requested that plantspecific ‘‘Should we bust in, show our badges and
questioned the official death toll from the numbers stay private. One of the reasons, she test everyone?’’ a colleague suggested. ‘‘Ha!’’
coronavirus, suggesting that the numbers said, was that the local officials wanted to A National Beef spokesman said the com-
may be inflated even as public health experts avoid antagonizing the meatpackers while pany was following the county’s health
and statisticians say the opposite is more they worked alongside them to curtail the guidelines.
likely true. outbreaks. Even when case numbers are disclosed,
The meat companies are not legally re- ‘‘A lot of the concerns were around frac- many health departments say they have lit-
quired to disclose how many workers are tured relationships,’’ Ms. Packer said. tle authority to act at meat plants.
sick. But legal experts say privacy is not a ‘‘Some local health directors from the coun- Last month, a worker in a Triumph Foods
valid reason for keeping the numbers from ties where there are processing plants ex- pork plant in St. Joseph, Mo., emailed the
the public. pressed some concerns about how that may city saying at least two employees were in-
‘‘Alerting a community about the number negatively impact the relationship they have fected and 90 percent of the staff was still
of cases in a particular place is a standard built with the management of the compa- working ‘‘less than a meter away’’ from one
public health response;’ said Nicole nies.’’ another.
Huberfeld, a public health expert at Boston A spokeswoman for North Carolina’s ‘‘Workers are scared,’’ the employee said.
University. ‘‘People need to act appro- health department, Amy Ellis, declined to ‘‘Can the government take action on the
priately if they are exposed.’’ reveal plant-specific data. She said the state matter for the protection of workers and the
The lack of full disclosure also dem- has recorded a total of 1,952 cases across city?’’
onstrates the industry’s sway as a major em- meat plants in 17 counties. A health official wrote back on April 21,
ployer in the Midwest and the South. Smithfield said it continued to ‘‘report all saying the city had ‘‘limited authority’’ in
While more than 80 percent of beef and Covid–19 cases to state and local health offi- closing a business and suggested that the
pork workers are unionized, even labor lead- cials, as well as the C.D.C.’’ and was working workers cover their noses and mouths and
ers acknowledge it is not as easy to shut to provide free testing to all its employees. use hand sanitizer.
down meat plants as other factories because This month, Gov. Pete Ricketts of Ne-
Since then, Triumph has supplied workers
they are essential to the food supply. Auto braska announced that the state would not
with masks, among other protective meas-
plants, for example, were shut down rel- disclose the number of coronavirus cases in
ures, according to the company website. But
atively early during the pandemic and have specific meat plants without the consent of
at the time, the plant worker was not com-
only just begun to reopen. the companies. The state is releasing aggre-
forted by the city’s assurances.
After some slaughterhouses did close, res- gate case numbers across the meat proc-
‘‘Are you telling me that it doesn’t matter
taurants and stores experienced significant essing industry, the governor’s spokesman
that two workers are infected,’’ he wrote.
shortages of meat, leading Mr. Trump to said. Some of Nebraska’s big meatpackers
‘‘Because the plant is worth more than the
issue an executive order designating meat have also started revealing less about case
workers’ health?’’
plants ‘‘critical infrastructure’’ that must numbers to their employees.
stay open. Eric Reeder, a local union president rep- Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, test-
But the order did not address crucial issues resenting workers in 14 plants around Ne- ing requires a national strategy, not a
like testing, leading many companies to re- braska, said that the larger the outbreak, 50–State, helter-skelter search for lim-
open plants or keep them operating without the less transparent some of the companies ited supplies. Without rigorous ex-
fully assessing whether employees had con- have become about the case numbers. panded surveillance testing, many
tracted the virus. ‘‘When a plant hits several hundred cases, more American lives are put on the
Across the country, many local health de- they get more tight-lipped, and that makes chopping block because of pure stu-
partments have encouraged companies to it difficult for workers to protect themselves
test employees—but stopped short of order- and their families,’’ said Mr. Reeder, presi-
pidity and callousness.
ing them to do so. dent of the United Food & Commercial If the President can find billions to
On April 21, health officials in Dallas Coun- Workers union local 293. build more nuclear weapons, then sure-
ty, Iowa, told Tyson Foods that they could Those transparency issues were on display ly we can find the money to protect
provide rapid testing kits for workers at its last month when Teresa Anderson, the direc- those who build them and all workers
local plant in Perry, according to the emails. tor of the Central District Health Depart- who dedicate their talents to moving
An early draft of that message to Tyson ment in Grand Island, Neb., told the meat our Nation to full throttle again.
managers underscored the urgency, saying, processor JBS that she planned to conduct
Mr. President, get a testing regimen
‘‘At this time, we strongly recommend this coronavirus testing at a park near the com-
option be implemented immediately.’’ pany’s plant, which employs 3,700 people. in place. It is your duty. No excuses.
But the county’s lawyer asked that the JBS wanted assurances that the test re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem-
language be revised to read, ‘‘At this time, sults would not be made public. bers are reminded to address their re-
we ask you to consider this be implemented ‘‘We understand that you will be asking marks to the Chair.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
as soon as possible.’’ and recording the employer,’’ Nicholas
f
In an interview, the county attorney, White, a compliance official at JBS, wrote in
Chuck Sinnard, said he recommended revis- an email to Ms. Anderson on April 15. ‘‘But VITAMIN D SUPPLEMENTS TO
ing the language because he did not believe we would ask that you not disclose that in- REDUCE COVID–19 DEATHS
the health department had the authority to formation as part of any public disclosure of
order Tyson to conduct tests. the testing results.’’ (Mr. GROTHMAN asked and was
‘‘It was in the vein of choosing wording Six days later, though, Ms. Anderson an- given permission to address the House
cautiously and conservatively so we didn’t nounced that more than 200 people connected for 1 minute.)
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2353
Mr. GROTHMAN. Madam Speaker, as partner to the Navajo people, and I will communities to relieve budget short-
America opens up and we go over fight to ensure that happens. falls so our education, healthcare, and
100,000 deaths attributed to the COVID, f public services don’t suffer.
it is important that we look at all our Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues
HISTORIC FLOODING IN MID- to help our States and local commu-
options to reduce the number of deaths
MICHIGAN nities and give teachers like Mr.
related to this disease.
I feel the government is leaving too (Mr. MOOLENAAR asked and was Belknap a chance to give his students
much to the pharmaceutical industry given permission to address the House the opportunities they deserve.
to develop a vaccine. Well, the answer for 1 minute and to revise and extend f
may be a more natural one and one his remarks.)
Mr. MOOLENAAR. Madam Speaker, I RECOGNIZING AMERICANS LOST
that is a lot cheaper for the American
rise today to pay tribute to the first re- TO COVID–19
public.
Madam Speaker, I strongly believe sponders, emergency officials, and the (Mr. SOTO asked and was given per-
that we should be looking more at the people of mid-Michigan for their swift mission to address the House for 1
benefits of vitamin D. Vitamin D is action, heroic work, and incredible minute and to revise and extend his re-
from the Sun. It is free. I encourage compassion in responding to the flood- marks.)
people to ignore the politicians who ing in our region last week. Mr. SOTO. Madam Speaker, today we
say you have to spend all day indoors, In the face of the COVID–19 pan- mourn the lives of over 100,000 Ameri-
but get out and grab the Sun. demic, historic rain, and the failure of cans who lost their lives and pray for
We have been told since we were chil- two dams, they quickly and safely the recovery of over 1.75 million Ameri-
dren that you get vitamin D from the evacuated more than 11,000 people cans infected by COVID–19. This rep-
Sun, and that is the way you stay without a single death or injury and resents an unimaginable pain, but the
healthy. If you can’t grab the rays, provided shelter for those who were numbers really don’t tell the story. I
grab some vitamin D pills. That is an- displaced. want to take a moment to describe
other way to get your vitamin D. I have been on the ground meeting four central Floridians we lost by this
It is not just me saying it. I encour- with residents who have been affected, pandemic:
age folks back home to Google ‘‘North- especially in Sanford, which took the Rob Carlos, Poinciana, a retired Dis-
western University vitamin D,’’ or hardest hit from this heartbreaking ney cast member known as Pirate Bob;
‘‘Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, vi- event. Residents have lost businesses, Dr. Neil Powell, Orlando, an Air
tamin D,’’ and you will see there are a homes, and cherished family posses- Force veteran and dentist who made
lot of experts outside of the CDC who sions. central Florida smile brighter;
are already pushing it. In the face of these challenges, our Bill Smith of Lake Wales, an elec-
Madam Speaker, I encourage people community is coming together. We are trician who worked on national
to use that method to keep the number grateful for the overwhelming support launchpads and the Magic Kingdom;
of deaths from COVID down. that has come from across the State And Virgilio Germán of Kissimmee, a
f and from nonprofits and businesses. My retired carpenter, who loved to sing
colleagues here in Congress have also Mexican ballads to his wife, Gigi.
COVID–19 ON THE NAVAJO NATION reached out to me, and I appreciate These and other stories throughout
(Mr. LUJÁN asked and was given per- their kind words and offers of assist- central Florida will continue to be in
mission to address the House for 1 ance. our hearts as we do everything we can
minute and to revise and extend his re- Madam Speaker, today, I say thank to get beyond and survive this pan-
marks.) you to everyone in mid-Michigan and demic.
Mr. LUJÁN. Madam Speaker, since across the country for their support f
the beginning of this crisis, I have during this challenging time. b 1600
heard from Tribal leaders about the f
human tragedy of COVID–19 on the THE NEED FOR MEDICAL
Navajo Nation: whole families ravaged IN RECOGNITION OF KENNY RESEARCH
by the disease, doctors overwhelmed by BELKNAP (Mr. SHERMAN asked and was given
the surging cases, and insufficient Fed- (Mrs. LEE of Nevada asked and was permission to address the House for 1
eral help. given permission to address the House minute and to revise and extend his re-
These leaders are sounding the alarm for 1 minute and to revise and extend marks.)
for a community in crisis, and I have her remarks.) Mr. SHERMAN. Madam Speaker, our
been working to ensure the medical Mrs. LEE of Nevada. Madam Speak- work now is to negotiate a new relief
professionals who serve the Navajo Na- er, on behalf of Nevada’s Third Dis- bill. So far we have spent trillions of
tion have every tool at their disposal trict, I rise today to recognize Mr. dollars bandaging our economic
to treat patients and protect them- Kenny Belknap, an honors and AP gov- wounds, yet less than one-half of 1 per-
selves. ernment teacher at Del Sol Academy. cent has gone to beat the disease
But instead of doing right by the For decades, Clark County school- through research on therapeutics and
Navajo Nation, this administration, teachers have been forced to work with prophylaxes.
ProPublica found, awarded a $3 million a tight budget. Like Mr. Belknap told All hands should be on deck. Every
contract for personal protective equip- me: ‘‘We’re just trying to keep our reasonable idea should be tested. But
ment to an 11-day-old company headed head above water.’’ our professional medical researchers
by a former White House staffer. As a He is used to parsing materials and are today sitting at home because their
result, the IHS received hundreds of assigning two students to one textbook non-COVID research has been sus-
thousands of masks that may be un- as they fight for space in an over- pended and our COVID research fund-
suitable for medical use. crowded classroom. And, unfortu- ing has been modest.
This lack of leadership endangers nately, that was before the COVID–19 The HEROES Act provides $5.5 bil-
lives. That is why I am working with pandemic. lion to do this medical research. That
the New Mexico delegation and our col- The economic fallout of the is the most important one-quarter of 1
leagues from Arizona to hold the coronavirus crisis is devastating State percent of that bill, and we need to
Trump administration accountable. and local governments. In my home fight to expand it in negotiations.
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The Navajo Nation deserves the full State of Nevada, the Clark County Medical research is the best invest-
support of the Federal Government School District is expecting budget ment we can make for America. It is
during this crisis and not to have this cuts of $38 million this year alone. It is also the only way we are likely to pro-
administration turn a blind eye while classes like Mr. Belknap’s that will vide major help for the billions of peo-
the Nation loses one more parent, hurt the most from this loss. ple who live in poor countries, and it is
grandparent, son, or daughter. This ad- Congress can help by prioritizing the best investment that we can make
ministration must act as an honest Federal funding to States, towns, and in America’s standing in the world.
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H2354 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Thomas Edison looked at 3,000 dif- ISSUES OF THE DAY Meyer, deliver milk for Dixie Dairy on
ferent filaments to invent one prac- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. the south side of Chicago, he was called
tical light bulb. It took him 2 years. HAYES). Under the Speaker’s an- to serve on a full and winding profes-
We need to test 3,000 different combina- nounced policy of January 3, 2019, the sional path. This path was so full of
tions of compounds, and we don’t have gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. FOR- wonder that he would often marvel at
2 years. TENBERRY) is recognized for 60 minutes the, ‘‘milkman moments’’ that un-
f as the designee of the minority leader. folded, remarking: ‘‘What am I doing
Mr. FORTENBERRY. Madam Speak- here? God has blessed me so.’’
STOP POLICE BRUTALITY Dr. Meyer completed his bachelor’s
er, I am going to remove my mask as I
(Mr. JEFFRIES asked and was given speak. We are appropriately socially degree in 1969 at Concordia Senior Col-
permission to address the House for 1 distanced here. I am grateful for the lege in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and
minute.) time. earned a master of divinity from
Mr. JEFFRIES. Madam Speaker, I Before I begin my own remarks, I am Concordia Seminary in 1973. He earned
respect those police officers in every going to yield to the honorable gen- a master’s degree a year later and a
community who are there to protect tleman from Illinois (Mr. SHIMKUS), a doctorate in 1986 in classical languages
and serve and those who have fallen in senior member of the Energy and Com- from Washington University in St.
the line of duty, but we cannot tolerate merce Committee, who will be depart- Louis. He also is a recipient of an hon-
police violence, and we cannot tolerate ing from us soon. He is in his last term, orable doctor of divinity in 1993 from
police brutality. has announced his retirement. Concordia Theological Seminary in
George Floyd was murdered by an It has been a pleasure to serve with Fort Wayne, Indiana.
out-of-control police officer. When will you, my friend. We have a long way to Dr. Meyer first joined the faculty at
it end? go, but it is always great to see you, Concordia Seminary as a guest instruc-
Amadou Diallo, 42 shots, police offi- and I look forward to your remarks. tor in 1979, going on to serve as head
cers found not guilty. CONGRATULATING REVEREND DR. DALE A. pastor of St. Salvator Lutheran Church
Sean Bell, 50 shots, police officers MEYER ON HIS RETIREMENT in Venedy, Illinois, and St. Peter Lu-
found not guilty. Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I theran Church in New Memphis, Illi-
Eric Garner, choked to death, police rise today to recognize the contribu- nois, both currently in my district, and
officers let go by the grand jury. tions of Reverend Dr. Dale A. Meyer at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Col-
Decade after decade after decade, upon the occasion of his retirement as linsville, Illinois, which is my home
when will it end? president of Concordia Seminary in St.
This time must be different. Those congregation. These church commu-
Louis. nities are so beloved by the Meyers
perpetrators must be prosecuted to the In May of 2005, Dr. Meyer became the
full extent of the law, and Congress that they continue to worship at all
10th president of Concordia Seminary. three parishes to this day.
must do everything in its power to stop Over 15 years later, on June 30, 2020, It was at Holy Cross Lutheran that I
this type of tragedy from ever hap- Dr. Meyer will start a new season in and my wife, Karen, came to know Dr.
pening again. life, retiring and turning over the reins Meyer and his family. Our lives have
f of this beloved institution to new lead- been intertwined, to say the least:
WE CAN’T BREATHE ership. Diane sold us our first home; I taught
His contribution to the seminary was the oldest of his two daughters, Eliza-
(Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia asked and immense. During his tenure,
was given permission to address the beth, civics at Metro East Lutheran
Concordia’s long-term debt was elimi- High School and ran many of 5k races
House for 1 minute and to revise and nated, its endowment quadrupled, and
extend his remarks.) to come with his youngest daughter,
it earned top marks from its most re-
Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Madam Katie; my own children played music
cent accreditation by the Higher
Speaker, ‘‘I Can’t Breathe’’ is a poem I in their daughter’s wedding; and my
Learning Commission and the Associa-
delivered on this floor 6 years ago when wife, Karen, served as the head organ-
tion of Theological Schools.
Eric Garner got choked out by the po- From the start of his tenure to the ist at Holy Cross with Dale; and so on.
lice. Dr. Meyer moved on from Holy Cross
end, Dr. Meyer worked alongside his
Today, I am here for George Floyd, in 1989 after being selected to serve as
wife, Diane; the faculty; and key staff
another Black man who died facedown a speaker on ‘‘The Lutheran Hour’’
to cultivate a culture that was service
on the hot pavement, suffocated to oriented and external facing. This radio program at Lutheran Hour Min-
death by a police officer as he begged meant instituting activities designed istries. ‘‘The Lutheran Hour’’ is the
for his life for 8 minutes. to instill a spirit of community vol- world’s oldest continually broadcast
Black folks in America in 2020 are unteerism into first-year students. gospel radio program, first airing in
caught between being suffocated to This meant adding benches on campus 1930.
death by the COVID–19 coronavirus or Dr. Meyer also hosted a national tel-
and expanding holiday displays each
being choked to death by rogue, year so visitors knew they were wel- evision show, ‘‘On Main Street,’’ for
uncaring, and unconcerned police offi- come at this place. Lutheran Hour Ministries. In 2001, ‘‘On
cers. It meant working with his wife, Main Street’’ episodes received two
Black folks in America are caught up Diane, and Gayle Zollmann-Kiel, coor- prestigious Emmy awards from the Na-
in three pandemics, when you add the dinator of campus grounds, to create tional Academy of Television Arts and
reality that our businesses are getting community gardens for people to enjoy Sciences, St. Louis/Mid-America Chap-
choked out of PPP. Black people bear all summer and fall, thereby feeding ter. During this time, he took part in
an unparalleled burden in this country. the community both spiritually and some of his favorite ‘‘milkman mo-
When just 12 percent of Black and figuratively. And it meant, during the ments,’’ including opening both the
Latino business owners who applied for current pandemic, having the bell U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Rep-
PPP report receiving what they asked tower on campus play music to lift the resentatives in prayer.
for, something is wrong. spirits of all those around. In addition to his published writings,
When we make up 13 percent of the No wonder the seminary received sev- Dr. Meyer served in numerous leader-
population but 60 percent of COVID eral civic awards, including being ship practices, such as third vice presi-
deaths, something wrong. named among the 100 Top Workplaces dent of the Lutheran Church-Missouri
When we have armed vigilantes and in St. Louis in 2015. Synod, a charter board member of the
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rogue police officers killing us on the Dr. Meyer’s retirement marks a sea- Association of Lutheran Older Adults,
streets, something is terribly wrong. son of change for the seminary. How- an honorary director of God’s Word to
The American Dream should not be a ever, it also marks the closing of a the Nations Bible Society, and as a
nightmare for any of her people. It is chapter of a long career of service for board of trustee of the American Bible
time to bring an end to open season on him personally. Society.
Black people in America. We can’t While Dr. Meyer’s first job was help- Dr. Meyer finally returned home to
breathe. ing his parents, Arthur and Norma Concordia Seminary in St. Louis in
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2355
2001, serving as the Gregg H. Benidt something out to me: The flag at one of Madam Speaker, I want to turn back
Memorial Chair in Homiletics and Lit- our small post office locations is not to another set of issues that actually
erature. He became interim president flying, and it hasn’t been flying for happened before coronavirus hit our
in 2004 and the 10th president of the in- some time. country and hit this body as well. One
stitution in 2005. So my diligent staff actually con- of the most basic expectations of our
For the next 15 years, he could be tacted the gentleman. I believe they government is the health and well-
seen working on the campus grounds, reached out to the post office them- being of our Nation. Three months ago,
attending ‘‘Bach at the Sem,’’ and selves, but it sat out there as a lin- this week, in a timely subcommittee
strolling with Ferdie, the oversized-in- gering issue. So I decided to call the hearing—I sit on the Appropriations
body-and-heart golden retriever that postmaster myself, and I apologized to Committee and two subcommittees, on
became the quasi-mascot on campus her. I said: I know this is highly un- State and Foreign Operations, and I am
and, sadly, recently passed away. usual that a Congressman would call the ranking member of the Agriculture
Dr. Meyer likes to tell students: ‘‘It you directly. Subcommittee, and we have jurisdic-
is a great time to be the church.’’ As She said: It is about the flag, isn’t it? tion over the Food and Drug Adminis-
the world suffers greatly from the pan- I said: Yes, ma’am. tration.
demic, we are grateful for his efforts to She said: I don’t have anybody to So in a timely subcommittee hear-
raise public servants to serve all those help me. I have the equipment to fix it. ing, I asked the Inspector General of
who are hurting and to share the Gos- The top of the pole is broken. I just the Department of Health and Human
pel loud and clear for all to hear. don’t have anyone to help me. Services this question—it is a simple
As Dr. Meyer begins his beautiful I said: Let’s get it fixed. question, it is just three words—are our
journey of retirement, he will enjoy I called our electric system. We have drugs safe? Four words. Are our drugs
more time with his two grown daugh- a public power system in Nebraska. safe?
ters, Elizabeth, known as Lizzie, Pitt- They deal with us all the time on a This raging coronavirus has drawn
man and Catherine, known as Katie, whole variety of issues. Their response much attention to this much over-
Bailey; their spouses, Darren and was: We will get it fixed. looked problem. And in the name of
Charles; and their five grandsons that There are a couple of levels of issues global profiteering, what has happened
he refers to as Cinco de Meyer: Chris- here, Madam Speaker, and the reason I is that we have enabled a dangerous
tian, Connor, and Nicholas Pittman, tell the story. outsourcing of pharmaceutical produc-
and Andrew and Jacob Bailey. First of all, it was important to that tion to foreign countries. A significant
Madam Speaker, I want to personally gentleman that that flag, which rep- portion of that outsourcing is to the
thank Dr. Meyer and his wife, Diane, resents us all, right behind you, the very origin of the place where
for their ministry. binding notion of what it means to be coronavirus came from, China.
I thank Congressman FORTENBERRY an American, that people have fought Over 80 percent of active drug ingre-
for yielding to me. and died for, the symbol of this dig- dients and 40 percent of finished drugs
Mr. FORTENBERRY. I thank Con- nity, this nobility of tradition that de- on the American market, from
gressman SHIMKUS, because as he was fines not only where we have been but, ibuprofen to reduce your fever, to anti-
speaking, I was reminded of my own really, what we ought to strive to be. biotics to treat infection, they are pro-
Concordia College I represent, which is Maybe he didn’t think through all of duced outside the United States. Even
a part of the consortium of Lutheran that, but he just wanted the flag to fly if we vigilantly inspect our domestic
colleges, which I know is very close to at a government building. manufacturing processes, we cannot
his heart. So I thank him for men- possibly get a handle on drug safety
b 1615
tioning the gentleman. when our drugs are sourced from over
Madam Speaker, before I begin, may The postmaster had no ill will or ill 150 countries, including a significant
I inquire as to the allotted amount of intent, she just didn’t have any help. In portion from China.
time. Is it 30 or 60 minutes? a previous time maybe we would have The Department of Health and
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- just said, well, you need to get the pur- Human Services, HHS, has a daunting
tleman was recognized for 1 hour. chase order written, but in my own task in managing the spending and per-
Mr. FORTENBERRY. Madam Speak- way, let’s just solve the problem. formance of agencies that are so large
er, our world has changed. Who could And whether it is a person who has they can be bigger than some coun-
imagine just 3 short months ago where had a problem with their Social Secu- tries’ GDP. And one of those agencies
we would be right now as this silent rity check or their economic stimulus is the Food and Drug Administration,
avenger has threatened life, the life check, or a farmer who has not been the FDA.
that we knew, and we suddenly found able to get their emergency loan, or a There is an inherent and unfair dual-
ourselves quarantined in our homes small business tripped up on some as- ity, however, in how FDA’s foreign and
and apartments with nowhere to go, no pect of the Paycheck Protection Pro- domestic inspection regimes are car-
planes to catch, no appointments to gram—which by the way, has been a bi- ried out. FDA inspectors routinely con-
make, just quiet isolation with family partisan life-send by this body—to go duct surprise inspections in America to
and neighbors across the way. person by person, business by business, ensure that drug companies are pro-
Many friends are suffering, suffering I am sure that many of us have ad- ducing medicine in a clean, safe, and
unemployment or job uncertainty, or justed to the new reality of serving responsible manner.
the impact of the sickness directly. people where they are. And maybe in But when it comes to foreign inspec-
The trauma of this crisis is so, so real. some small way in the midst of this tions, the FDA customarily gives com-
With that said, Madam Speaker, I am trauma and crisis, this is a silver lining panies advance notice, often as much
sure all of us in this body are doing of returning back to, first, principles as 12 weeks, enabling drug suppliers
quite a bit of reflection, adjustment, versus the abstract discussions that plenty of time to clean up their acts.
and alteration as we go back to what I can sometimes consume us, and the This is counterproductive and it is
call first principles, and here is an ex- ruckus, fighting, and pushing and shov- wrong, and it creates an unlevel play-
ample. ing over things that never seem to ing field for companies trying to manu-
As I was reviewing my mail recently, come to any end. facture drugs right here in the United
my daily mail, a gentleman wrote to But hanging a flag in front of a post States of America.
me. He was concerned about some- office is important, because it is who Compounding these problems, the
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thing. It might not be about what we we are and what we ought to be. And I FDA inspectors also face obstruction,
will talk in a moment, our dependence want to thank that constituent for coercion, and deception in foreign
on China for protective equipment and calling me. Of course, in a great Ne- countries. In one case, a Chinese com-
medical supplies, it might not be the braska way, when I told him we got it pany reportedly imprisoned an inspec-
latest surge of the virus in cities fixed, he said: Well, is it an all-weather tor in a conference room for an hour to
throughout America, but, nonetheless, flag? I said: Sir, I don’t know that. We force her to destroy the photographs
it was important to him that he point did what we could. that she took of its facilities.
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H2356 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
Madam Speaker, this inadequate proud that this body has come together the elbow bump, thumbs-up, and head
monitoring of foreign production of to protect healthcare, to protect indi- nod are, of course, enjoying a renais-
medicine, it really does have dire con- viduals and families, and to protect sance.
sequences. In 2008, a tainted batch of small businesses and farmers. As we extrapolate from these changes
the blood thinner, heparin, which is Once our body itself recovers our to a world in which we are hopeful that
made in China, killed over 100 people rhythm and order here, there are some better treatments are right around the
worldwide, including 81 in America. It particularly good places to start think- corner, we are seeing less dependence
led to this drug’s recall. ing about action around our healthcare on automobiles, more connectedness to
In August of 2018, the FDA issued an security. the outdoors, an increase in victory
alert that a Chinese manufacturer of a So policy question one: How much of gardens, and local foods. A nice side ef-
thyroid medicine was recalled due to our drugs come from foreign sources? fect, nature is recovering. The air is
inconsistent quality. At this hearing To solve this, we should enhance the cleaner. Traffic is down. Cities feel
that I am referencing with the Depart- FDA’s powers to track the ingredients. calmer. This reality presages the align-
ment of Health and Human Service’s We should require labeling as to where ing preferences, and this is a fas-
Inspector General, I asked: Why has so they come from. And, third, increase cinating fact, the economic preference
much of our drug production moved reporting requirements for the pharma- curves of the baby boom generation
overseas? Why? ceutical companies themselves, par- and the millennial generation are
Now, of course, in asking that ques- ticularly within the precursor ingredi- aligning for livable, walkable, nur-
tion, Madam Speaker, I basically knew ents. turing communities.
the answer, it has to do with capital- Bottom line, we need clear answers But even while we consider the rosier
ization on low wages, lax safety, envi- about how we oversee the foreign pro- side of this predicament, we have ur-
ronmental and labor standards in those duction of drugs and drug ingredients. gent questions. When are we getting
countries. But my fuller intention in We also need the right incentives to en- back to normal? When can we hug
asking the question was to probe as to sure that U.S. companies will produce those we love? When can we visit those
whether or not we have inadvertently, more and more drugs and drug ingredi- incapable of visiting us? What does
in U.S. law and regulatory structure, ents right here, here at home in Amer- normal even mean?
perversely encouraged offshoring. ica. It is about healthcare security. If Madam Speaker, here is one aspect of
These troubling dynamics take on a it is made in America, we will all feel what normal may look like. A new in-
special urgency given the massive much better about knowing that it is trusive reality, I have an acronym for
spread of COVID–19. Several months safe. it, I call it SSTT, screening, sanita-
ago, the FDA identified 20 drugs that But going beyond these policy con- tion, testing and testing.
exclusively source their active pharma- siderations about our healthcare secu- So let’s unpack this. SSTT is a suite
ceutical ingredients or finished drug rity, Madam Speaker, I want to take a of best practices that will gradually en-
products from China. The agency then moment to possibly pull back the cur- able the full reopening of our State in
issued an alert that at least one Chi- tain and read into what we are experi- Nebraska, where I live, and our coun-
nese drugmaker had ceased production encing now, some future trends. It is try, while ensuring those who are vul-
of a human drug due to coronavirus in- not to diminish in any way the trauma, nerable, especially the elderly and
fection at its manufacturing facilities. disruption, and suffering that has hit those with underlying conditions, are
So drugs with short expiration dates our country, but there are many open- fully protected.
are particularly vulnerable to these ended questions that we are facing On screening, you will see more high-
supply-chain disruptions. Another level now. And it might be helpful to look tech thermal scans when you enter
of problem. into what some new realities are going large public places. As we experienced
So solving these issues can become to be in short order. after 9/11 with the dramatically-en-
easier when we can fully identify and We have adopted masks and social hanced security screening, your tem-
inspect foreign sources of medicine. distancing. We casually use terms like perature will be regularly taken.
But with the bulk of our foreign drug ‘‘herd immunity,’’ ‘‘flattening the As for the next S, sanitation. I found
supply originating from a country that curve,’’ and ‘‘community spread.’’ We a new respect for medical personnel
suppressed news about the coronavirus have also accepted a world with less who must wear these surgical masks
origins, its severity, and its timing, noise, less urgency, but more intimate hours on end through the day. They are
and to this day prevents the Centers connection with those in our imme- hot. They are bothersome, as I am sure
for Disease Control and Prevention diate orbit. We wonder what we will en- you can attest, Madam Speaker. But
from fully accessing the actual virus, I counter when the doors fully open once they are now part of the normalization
am not optimistic that we will gain again and we are uncaged to see the of our own personal protective equip-
better information. world through an entirely new lens. ment routines at retail establishments,
I get it, Madam Speaker, it is con- So perhaps here is a little bit of a at work, and on public transportation.
venient in this moment to point a fin- sneak peek. First, Madam Speaker, our You are already seeing the sneeze
ger at China, but we have plenty to do relationship with work has substan- guards and other physical barriers at
in our House to restore some order tially changed. For those fortunate to grocery store check-out stands. Hand
here. The Inspector General promised still have good employment, telework sanitizer sales are not declining any
me an answer within 2 weeks to my has arrived. While many Main Street time soon, as the surprisingly fragile
question. Do you remember what it businesses are really hurting, many COVID–19 is easily killed through basic
was? Have we inadvertently through have also transformed themselves into hygiene and surface disinfectants.
our legal or regulatory structure per- online, brick-and-mortar hybrids.
versely incentivized the offshoring of Like never before, people are order- b 1630
drug production from America? The In- ing groceries online, medical supplies, Social distancing is a subset of sani-
spector General promised me an answer and other essentials through their tation. Perhaps we should change the
in 2 weeks. I have heard nothing yet. phones for pick up and delivery. Doc- name. Perhaps we should call it social
The reality here is that we have to tors are seeing patients remotely. And respect because this is what it means.
change how we do public policy in our in a little-known shift, we are actually It is an embrace of a necessary con-
country, just like so many other proc- reimbursing properly for telehealth. It straint out of concern for the public
esses—business and society are shift- is here to stay, and it is going to make good, and it also lessens our own indi-
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ing. Coronavirus has caused a tectonic some huge advances in our well-being, vidual vulnerability.
plate shift. We are seeing massive and perhaps save some funds. When combined with advancing our
spikes in the use of digital technology, School, of course, has temporarily ability to work from home if sick,
which has huge implications for tele- centralized in the home, reconnecting these factors are certainly lessening
medicine, telework, and tele-education. families in important, beautiful, excit- the disease’s impact, thankfully.
In a bit of a silver lining in this time ing, if not sometimes stressful ways. New configurations for workplace
of crisis and suffering, I am frankly The handshake may be in decline, but foot traffic and airflow will emerge as
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2357
we embrace the need to consistently fects, this SSTT suite of approaches— Floyd, and it ought to be prosecuted to
and vigilantly fight this virus. Look again, the University of Nebraska, I am the fullest extent of the law.
for TSA-style COVID prechecks at air- proud of them for developing this and God help us as a Nation if we choose
ports, on trains, and at hospitals. their outreach to the community. It to be silent at this sad and tragic time.
Watch for new office architecture: open may not be a panacea, but it will give f
floor concepts and lunch buffets being us the data and confidence to more
out; plexiglass partitions, staggered robustly and quickly open our economy ADJOURNMENT
desks, one-way walkways will be in. and gradually reduce the need for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu-
Zoom is the new communal coffee strict containment measures. ant to section 4(b) of House Resolution
break. As offensive as this seems, look It is changing a bit now, Madam 967, the House stands adjourned until 9
for social distancing monitors on ele- Speaker, but on an earlier trip to D.C. a.m., Monday, June 1, 2020.
vators in large office buildings. for some votes we took several weeks Thereupon (at 4 o’clock and 37 min-
Again, the acronym is SSTT. The ago in which we replenished the funds utes p.m.), under its previous order, the
first ‘‘T’’ stands for testing. There will for the highly successful Paycheck House adjourned until Monday, June 1,
be a dramatic increase in onsite work Protection Program—Madam Speaker, 2020, at 9 a.m.
testing. Early diagnosis of those who if you don’t mind, I am going to divert f
show symptoms or who have some rea- for a moment because I am proud of my
sonableness to think they may have State. EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS,
been exposed is one way to signifi- Again, this was a bipartisan airlift, ETC.
cantly reduce the spread of the disease. the Paycheck Protection Program, to Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive
I have been very proud to continue to help small businesses maintain per- communications were taken from the
work with the University of Nebraska sonnel on the payroll while we tried to Speaker’s table and referred as follows:
Medical Center. During the Ebola epi- get in front of the disease spread, cre- 4368. A letter from the Secretary, Depart-
demic, we worked with the Obama ad- ating a one-two simultaneous step to ment of Agriculture, transmitting a letter to
ministration to help the University of protect our healthcare system and pro- report a violation of the Antideficiency Act,
Nebraska Medical Center, which has a tect our economic well-being. The Pay- pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 1351; Public Law 97-258;
long history in infectious disease and check Protection Program was vital to (96 Stat. 926); to the Committee on Appro-
virology, to build out containment fa- this effort, widely supported by many priations.
cilities just in case Ebola would impact of us, as well as the replenishment. 4369. A letter from the Inspector General,
us significantly in America. Nebraska has a very robust commu- Office of Inspector General, Federal Deposit
You might recall, Madam Speaker, Insurance Corporation, transmitting a GAO
nity banking system. We worked very Opinion Regarding FDIC OIG Appropria-
that the first coronavirus cases that aggressively with the small business tions; to the Committee on Appropriations.
came off the cruise ship went imme- associations and got the word out so 4370. A letter from the OSD FRLO, Office
diately to Nebraska. Our National we, on a per capita basis, have the larg- of the Secretary, Department of Defense,
Guard hosted people. Those who needed est number of loans for the Paycheck transmitting the Department’s final rule —
to be in isolation and then those who Protection Program, which, again, is Service by Members of the Armed Forces on
needed to be quarantined who had the so important to the well-being of our State and Local Juries [Docket ID: DOD-
disease went to the University of Ne- economic vitality as we fight our way 2020-OS-0029] (RIN: 0790-AK35) received May
braska. That is because we have led the 15, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A);
through this virus. Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to
country in forward-thinking as to how The point being, though, I went to the Committee on Armed Services.
to create the possibility of contain- get on the airplane, and I stood in 4371. A letter from the Administrator,
ment for some type of pandemic. Omaha Eppley Airfield and then later FEMA, Department of Homeland Security,
We have a lot more to do, such as at Chicago O’Hare and witnessed this transmitting a report advising that the cost
creating a surge hospital concept for eerie stillness around me: vacant ter- of response and recovery efforts for FEMA-
our military and our country at large. minals, closed businesses, nearly 3392-EM in the State of Louisiana has ex-
Nonetheless, in working with the Uni- empty planes, a science fiction movie ceeded the limit for a single emergency dec-
versity of Nebraska Med Center, trying laration, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 5193(b)(3);
come to life.
Public Law 93-288, Sec. 503(b)(3) (as amended
to think about how we just don’t sit Madam Speaker, the Earth has really by Public Law 100-707, Sec. 107(a)); (102 Stat.
back and let the sick come to us but stood still for a moment, but perhaps 4707); to the Committee on Transportation
that we go forward and use institutions in this stillness, just perhaps, we have and Infrastructure.
that have occupational health special- rediscovered some important things, 4372. A letter from the Chief, Publications
ists and larger capacities to become and we do see some trends that will and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue
the center for controlling the diseases mark a new way forward. Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only
themselves in a manner that parallels Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- rule — Bond remarketing relief (Notice 2020-
the necessary public health response ance of my time. 25) received May 15, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110
that is going on. f Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and
Again, sanitation and screening are Means.
part of that and onsite work testing. JUSTICE FOR GEORGE FLOYD
4373. A letter from the Chief, Publications
The second ‘‘T’’ though in the SSTT (Mr. MFUME asked and was given and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue
is for serological testing. This test de- permission to address the House for 1 Service, transmitting the Service’s notifica-
termines whether you have developed minute and to revise and extend his re- tion of relief — Extension of Certain Time-
antibodies to the virus, which are need- marks.) frames for Employee Benefit Plans, Partici-
ed for immunity. As we are discov- Mr. MFUME. Madam Speaker, I rise pants, and Beneficiaries Affected by the
ering, a number of people who have had today because I want to call the name COVID-19 Outbreak received May 15, 2020,
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law
the disease don’t have any symptoms. of George Floyd.
104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com-
They didn’t know they had it. They George Floyd lost his life this week mittee on Ways and Means.
could have antibodies, which will help because of a Minneapolis police officer. 4374. A letter from the Chief, Publications
them fight the disease, should they be George Floyd died for no known rea- and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue
reexposed in the future. Said another son. He was not armed. He was not in- Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only
way, it means a person who has had the toxicated. He was not aggressive. And rule — Revenue Procedure 2020-21 received
virus recovered, and it lessens the pos- he was not threatening. May 15, 2020, pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
sibility of reinfection for them. George Floyd pleaded for his life. He 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110
Both types of testing will become cried out for help. He groaned in pain. Stat. 868); to the Committee on Ways and
Means.
widespread, faster, cheaper, and ordi- And then he died with his face pressed 4375. A letter from the Chief, Publications
nary—again, helping us control the against the ground and the knee of a and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue
spread. police officer against his neck. Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only
As we work toward a vaccine or effec- This was not an arrest. This was rule — Notice Proposing Revenue Procedure
tive treatment to stop the serious ef- murder. It was the murder of George Updating Group Exemption Letter Program
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H2358 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
[Notice 2020-36] received May 15, 2020, pursu- H.R. 7049. A bill to require the Secretary of ices during the COVID-19 public health emer-
ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Defense to develop a plan to improve the De- gency period, and for other purposes; to the
121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee fense of Department-wide management of Committee on the Judiciary.
on Ways and Means. the investments in weapon systems of the By Mr. TURNER (for himself and Mrs.
Department, and for other purposes; to the DAVIS of California):
f H.R. 7060. A bill to improve the military
Committee on Armed Services.
PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS By Ms. JOHNSON of Texas: justice system, and for other purposes; to the
H.R. 7050. A bill to direct the Secretary of Committee on Armed Services.
Under clause 2 of rule XII, public Transportation to establish a program to By Mr. WALTZ (for himself, Mr.
bills and resolutions of the following provide grants to retrain certain transpor- GOSAR, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr.
titles were introduced and severally re- tation workers, and for other purposes; to LUCAS, Mr. MCCARTHY, Mr. YOUNG,
ferred, as follows: the Committee on Transportation and Infra- Mr. WEBER of Texas, Mr. CRAWFORD,
structure. Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. BUCK, Mr. GON-
By Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois
By Mr. KING of Iowa: ZALEZ of Ohio, Mr. LAMALFA, Mr.
(for himself and Mr. BACON): POSEY, Mr. NEWHOUSE, Mr.
H.R. 7042. A bill to amend title IV of the H.R. 7051. A bill to provide Federal relief to
hog producers, especially family farmers and BALDERSON, Mr. CURTIS, Mr. BABIN,
Social Security Act to expand foster parent Mr. MCCLINTOCK, Mr. OLSON, Mr.
training and authorize new appropriations to independent producers, who have been forced
to euthanize hogs due to the COVID-19 pan- KEVIN HERN of Oklahoma, Mr. NOR-
support the obtainment of a driver’s license; MAN, Mr. STAUBER, Mr. BAIRD, Mr.
to the Committee on Ways and Means. demic, and for other purposes; to the Com-
mittee on Agriculture. WESTERMAN, Mr. WITTMAN, Ms. CHE-
By Mr. BUCK (for himself, Mr. BIGGS, NEY, Mrs. LESKO, Mr. STEWART, Mr.
Mr. BUDD, Mr. GAETZ, Mr. ROY, Mr. By Mr. LAMALFA:
H.R. 7052. A bill to designate the facility of JOHNSON of South Dakota, Mr. COOK,
DESJARLAIS, Mr. DUNCAN, Mr. MUR- Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. HICE of Georgia,
the United States Postal Service located at
PHY of North Carolina, Mrs. LESKO, Mr. EMMER, Mr. AMODEI, Mr.
2141 Ferry Street in Anderson, California, as
Mr. MASSIE, Mr. POSEY, Mr. KING of FULCHER, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. CAL-
the ‘‘Norma Comnick Post Office’’; to the
Iowa, Mr. CRAWFORD, Mr. RIGGLEMAN, VERT, and Mr. DUNCAN):
Committee on Oversight and Reform.
Mr. BABIN, Mr. BROOKS of Alabama, H.R. 7061. A bill to promote the domestic
By Mr. LOWENTHAL (for himself, Ms.
Mr. GIBBS, Mr. CLINE, and Mr. exploration, research, development, and
NORTON, Mr. CORREA, Mr. KHANNA,
STEUBE): processing of critical minerals to ensure the
Mr. ROUDA, Mr. VARGAS, Ms. LEE of
H.R. 7043. A bill to withhold funding au- economic and national security of the United
California, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia,
thorized under the CARES Act from any States, and for other purposes; to the Com-
and Mr. CONNOLLY):
State or municipality that provides eco- mittee on Natural Resources, and in addition
H.R. 7053. A bill to defer removal of certain
nomic stimulus payments through a program to the Committees on Science, Space, and
nationals of Vietnam for a 24-month period,
designed to exclusively assist illegal aliens; Technology, Small Business, the Judiciary,
and for other purposes; to the Committee on
to the Committee on Oversight and Reform. and Education and Labor, for a period to be
the Judiciary.
By Mr. BUDD (for himself, Mr. BIGGS, subsequently determined by the Speaker, in
By Ms. MENG:
Mr. BERGMAN, Mr. ROUZER, Mr. CUR- H.R. 7054. A bill to encourage the donation each case for consideration of such provi-
TIS, Mr. POSEY, Mr. BISHOP of North
of menstrual products to nonprofit organiza- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the
Carolina, and Mr. MOONEY of West tions for distribution, and for other pur- committee concerned.
Virginia): poses; to the Committee on the Judiciary. By Ms. WATERS (for herself, Mr.
H.R. 7044. A bill to withhold the pay of By Mr. MEUSER (for himself and Mr. PAYNE, Mr. COHEN, Ms. NORTON, Ms.
Members of the House of Representatives SUOZZI): JACKSON LEE, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia,
who cast a vote or record their presence in H.R. 7055. A bill to provide for an increased Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. BARRAGÁN, Mrs.
the House by proxy, and for other purposes; fine and term of imprisonment for fraud in BEATTY, Mr. SUOZZI, Ms. ROYBAL-
to the Committee on House Administration. connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, and ALLARD, Ms. GARCIA of Texas, Mr.
By Mr. CASE (for himself and Ms. for other purposes; to the Committee on the MEEKS, Mr. WELCH, Mr. GARCÍA of Il-
GABBARD): Judiciary. linois, Ms. WILD, Mr. RUSH, Ms. WIL-
H.R. 7045. A bill to require the Secretary of By Mr. O’HALLERAN (for himself and SON of Florida, Ms. JOHNSON of Texas,
Agriculture to conduct a study on lands that Mr. YOUNG): Mr. MORELLE, Mr. THOMPSON of Mis-
could be included in a National Forest in Ha- H.R. 7056. A bill to direct the Secretary of sissippi, Ms. LEE of California, Mr.
wai’i, and for other purposes; to the Com- Health and Human Services to award addi- CARSON of Indiana, Mr. LARSON of
mittee on Natural Resources. tional funding through the Indian Health Connecticut, Mr. LIPINSKI, and Mrs.
By Mr. CASTEN of Illinois: Services Sanitation Facilities Construction HAYES):
H.R. 7046. A bill to amend the Bank Hold- Program, and for other purposes; to the H.R. 7062. A bill to amend title XVIII of the
ing Company Act of 1956 to place certain lim- Committee on Natural Resources, and in ad- Social Security Act to eliminate cost-shar-
itations on commodity ownership and to re- dition to the Committee on Energy and Com- ing with respect to coverage of insulin as a
peal the merchant banking authority, and covered part D drug and associated medical
merce, for a period to be subsequently deter-
for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- supplies and to provide mail order access to
mined by the Speaker, in each case for con-
nancial Services. insulin and such supplies under the Medicare
sideration of such provisions as fall within
By Mr. EMMER (for himself, Mr. MAR- program during the COVID-19 emergency pe-
the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
SHALL, and Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illi- riod; to the Committee on Energy and Com-
By Mr. RASKIN: merce, and in addition to the Committee on
nois): H.R. 7057. A bill to amend the Public
H.R. 7047. A bill to provide for expedited Ways and Means, for a period to be subse-
Health Service Act to authorize and provide
additional support under the farm and ranch quently determined by the Speaker, in each
for the expansion, intensification, and co- case for consideration of such provisions as
stress assistance network, and for other pur- ordination of the programs and activities of fall within the jurisdiction of the committee
poses; to the Committee on Agriculture, and the National Institutes of Health with re- concerned.
in addition to the Committee on the Budget, spect to post-viral chronic neuroimmune dis- By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina (for
for a period to be subsequently determined eases, specifically myalgic himself, Mr. GIBBS, and Mr. GUEST):
by the Speaker, in each case for consider- encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome H.R. 7063. A bill to amend the Foreign
ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- (ME/CFS), to support the COVID-19 response, Agents Registration Act of 1938 to limit the
risdiction of the committee concerned. and other purposes; to the Committee on En- exemption from the registration require-
By Mr. GOTTHEIMER (for himself, Mr. ergy and Commerce. ments of such Act for persons engaging in
SMITH of New Jersey, and Mr. By Mr. REED (for himself, Mr. activities in furtherance of bona fide reli-
PAYNE): GOTTHEIMER, Mr. SCHWEIKERT, and gious, scholastic, academic, or scientific pur-
H.R. 7048. A bill to establish requirements Mr. CUELLAR): suits or the fine arts to activities which do
for skilled nursing facilities, nursing facili- H.R. 7058. A bill to provide a payroll tax not promote the political agenda of a foreign
ties, and assisted living facilities to manage credit for certain bonuses paid to employees government, to amend the Higher Education
the outbreak of COVID-19, and for other pur- who worked continuously during the COVID- Act of 1965 to clarify the disclosures of for-
poses; to the Committee on Energy and Com- 19 pandemic; to the Committee on Ways and eign gifts by institutions, and for other pur-
merce, and in addition to the Committee on Means. poses; to the Committee on the Judiciary,
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with HOUSE
Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- By Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee and in addition to the Committee on Edu-
quently determined by the Speaker, in each (for himself and Mr. CORREA): cation and Labor, for a period to be subse-
case for consideration of such provisions as H.R. 7059. A bill to provide for liability pro- quently determined by the Speaker, in each
fall within the jurisdiction of the committee tection for health care providers for damages case for consideration of such provisions as
concerned. with respect to any harm caused by any act fall within the jurisdiction of the committee
By Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota (for or omission of such health care professional concerned.
himself, Mr. VELA, and Mr. WILSON of or related health care entity in the course of By Ms. BROWNLEY of California (for
South Carolina): arranging for or providing health care serv- herself, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. KHANNA, Mr.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2359
ROSE of New York, and Mr. Article I, Section 8 By Mr. TURNER:
CICILLINE): By Mr. CASTEN of Illinois: H.R. 7060.
H. Res. 982. A resolution designating May H.R. 7046. Congress has the power to enact this legis-
28, 2020, as the first annual ‘‘National Food Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following:
Allergy Prevention Awareness Day’’ to raise lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8
awareness and encourage the prevention of Article I, Section 8 Clause 3 By Mr. WALTZ:
severe food allergies among children; to the By Mr. EMMER: H.R. 7061.
Committee on Energy and Commerce. H.R. 7047. Congress has the power to enact this legis-
By Ms. JUDY CHU of California (for Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following:
herself, Ms. MENG, Mr. TAKANO, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: Article IV, Section 3, clause 2 and Article
ROUDA, Mr. GREEN of Texas, Mr. Article I, Section 8. 1, Section 8, clause 18
SABLAN, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. BERA, By Mr. GOTTHEIMER: By Ms. WATERS:
Mr. COX of California, Mr. RASKIN, H.R. 7048. H.R. 7062.
Mrs. MURPHY of Florida, and Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis-
CISNEROS): lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following:
H. Res. 983. A resolution recognizing the Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: To make all
Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu-
significance of Asian/Pacific American Herit- laws that shall be necessary and proper for
tion.
age Month in May as an important time to carrying into execution the foregoing pow-
By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina:
celebrate the significant contributions of ers, and all powers vested by this Constitu-
H.R. 7063.
Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the tion in the government of the United States,
Congress has the power to enact this legis-
history of the United States; to the Com- or in any department or officer thereof.
lation pursuant to the following:
mittee on Oversight and Reform. By Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota:
Article I, Section 8
H.R. 7049.
By Mr. LAMBORN (for himself, Mr.
Congress has the power to enact this legis- f
COLLINS of Georgia, Mr. BIGGS, and
lation pursuant to the following:
Mr. BANKS): Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- ADDITIONAL SPONSORS
H. Res. 984. A resolution condemning Twit-
tion Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors
ter’s partisan censorship of President Donald
By Ms. JOHNSON of Texas:
J. Trump; to the Committee on Energy and H.R. 7050.
were added to public bills and resolu-
Commerce. Congress has the power to enact this legis- tions, as follows:
By Ms. LEE of California (for herself, lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 372: Mrs. FLETCHER and Mr. BRINDISI.
Ms. FUDGE, Mr. GARCÍA of Illinois, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 of the Con- H.R. 701: Mr. NORMAN.
Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. stitution of the United States. H.R. 702: Mr. NORMAN.
KHANNA, Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. NORTON, By Mr. KING of Iowa: H.R. 703: Mr. NORMAN.
Ms. PRESSLEY, Mr. RUSH, Mrs. WAT- H.R. 7051. H.R. 1209: Ms. SHERRILL.
SON COLEMAN, Ms. GARCIA of Texas, Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1461: Mrs. FLETCHER.
Ms. MOORE, and Ms. JOHNSON of lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2056: Mrs. HARTZLER and Mrs. BEATTY.
Texas): Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 & Article I, H.R. 2117: Mr. PAPPAS.
H. Res. 985. A resolution expressing the Section 8, Clause 18 H.R. 2501: Ms. MENG.
moral responsibility of Congress to end adult By Mr. LAMALFA: H.R. 2571: Mr. RIGGLEMAN and Mr. THOMP-
and child poverty in the United States; to H.R. 7052. SON of Pennsylvania.
the Committee on Oversight and Reform. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2859: Mr. WEBER of Texas.
By Mr. LIPINSKI (for himself, Mrs. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2895: Mr. MAST, Mr. GARAMENDI, Mr.
WALORSKI, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. SMITH of Article 1, Section 8 FERGUSON, and Mr. KELLER.
New Jersey, and Mr. TONKO): By Mr. LOWENTHAL: H.R. 3124: Mr. NORMAN.
H. Res. 986. A resolution commemorating H.R. 7053. H.R. 3637: Ms. BARRAGÁN.
the 80th anniversary of the Katyn Massacre; Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4104: Mr. SIRES, Mr. VARGAS, Mr.
to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. lation pursuant to the following: RYAN, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. CRAWFORD,
By Ms. MENG: Section 8 of Article 1 of the Constitution Mr. GONZALEZ of Ohio, Ms. GRANGER, Mr.
H. Res. 987. A resolution raising awareness By Ms. MENG: KING of New York, and Ms. DELAURO.
regarding period poverty; to the Committee H.R. 7054. H.R. 4189: Mr. SPANO.
on Energy and Commerce. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4280: Mr. MALINOWSKI.
f lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4309: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of
Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- New York and Mr. PAYNE.
CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY tion H.R. 4408: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms.
STATEMENT By Mr. MEUSER: BARRAGÁN, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr.
H.R. 7055.
Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of CÁRDENAS, and Mr. KHANNA.
Congress has the power to enact this legis-
the Rules of the House of Representa- H.R. 4644: Mr. WENSTRUP.
lation pursuant to the following:
tives, the following statements are sub- H.R. 4705: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina.
Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution of
H.R. 5076: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. NORTON,
mitted regarding the specific powers the United States.
Ms. VELÁZQUEZ, Mr. THOMPSON of Mis-
granted to Congress in the Constitu- By Mr. O’HALLERAN:
H.R. 7056. sissippi, Mr. TED LIEU of California, Ms. SE-
tion to enact the accompanying bill or WELL of Alabama, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. FOS-
Congress has the power to enact this legis-
joint resolution. lation pursuant to the following: TER, and Ms. CRAIG.
By Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois: Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 H.R. 5297: Mr. MCKINLEY.
H.R. 7042. By Mr. RASKIN: H.R. 5350: Mr. SMITH of Washington.
Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 7057. H.R. 5873: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr.
lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- LEWIS, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of
Article I of the Constitution and its subse- lation pursuant to the following: Illinois, Mr. SWALWELL of California, and Mr.
quent amendments and further clarified and Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- TED LIEU of California.
interpreted by the Supreme Court of the tion H.R. 5986: Ms. JACKSON LEE.
United States. By Mr. REED: H.R. 6104: Mr. HAGEDORN.
By Mr. BUCK: H.R. 7058. H.R. 6297: Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee.
H.R. 7043. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 6364: Mr. GOODEN and Mr. SMITH of
Congress has the power to enact this legis- lation pursuant to the following: Missouri.
lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8: Power to tax H.R. 6403: Mr. ROUDA.
Article I, Section 8 of the United States By Mr. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee: H.R. 6419: Ms. WILD.
Constitution. H.R. 7059. H.R. 6431: Miss GONZÁLEZ-COLÓN of Puerto
By Mr. BUDD: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Rico.
H.R. 7044. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 6443: Mr. KATKO.
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Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article I, Section 8 of the United States H.R. 6466: Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina.
lation pursuant to the following: Constitution, which states ‘‘[t]he Congress H.R. 6473: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana.
Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- shall have power to lay and collect taxes, du- H.R. 6474: Mr. CÁRDENAS.
tion ties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts H.R. 6492: Mr. CARBAJAL.
By Mr. CASE: and provide for the common defense and gen- H.R. 6499: Mr. TONKO.
H.R. 7045. eral welfare of the United States; but all du- H.R. 6519: Mr. PALAZZO.
Congress has the power to enact this legis- ties, imposts and excises shall be uniform H.R. 6537: Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of
lation pursuant to the following: throughout the United States.’’ New York and Ms. DEGETTE.
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H2360 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 28, 2020
H.R. 6607: Mr. SAN NICOLAS and Mrs. H.R. 6821: Mr. HUDSON, Mr. KATKO, and Mr. H.R. 7023: Mr. BISHOP of Utah and Mr.
HAYES. JOHNSON of South Dakota. DAVID P. ROE of Tennessee.
H.R. 6619: Mr. PERLMUTTER. H.R. 6861: Mr. GARCÍA of Illinois and Ms. H.R. 7025: Ms. DEGETTE.
H.R. 6628: Ms. JACKSON LEE and Ms. LEE of SCANLON. H.J. Res. 2: Mr. CASE.
California. H.R. 6864: Mr. VELA.
H.R. 6866: Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. WELCH, Mrs. H. Res. 823: Mrs. HARTZLER, Mr. SCHIFF,
H.R. 6633: Mrs. DEMINGS and Mr. TRONE.
H.R. 6637: Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts. LAWRENCE, Mr. CISNEROS, and Mr. JOHNSON of and Mr. BLUMENAUER.
H.R. 6643: Mrs. AXNE. Georgia. H. Res. 835: Mr. MCEACHIN.
H.R. 6644: Mrs. HAYES. H.R. 6896: Mr. LAMBORN. H. Res. 975: Ms. BARRAGÁN.
H.R. 6678: Mr. MAST. H.R. 6918: Mr. TAKANO and Mr. GREEN of H. Res. 979: Mr. GAETZ and Mr. AUSTIN
H.R. 6709: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- Texas. SCOTT of Georgia.
sylvania. H.R. 6934: Mr. BUDD and Mr. STEIL.
H.R. 6724: Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. RASKIN, Mrs. H.R. 6957: Mrs. HAYES, Mr. BARR, and Mr.
HAYES, Mr. GARCÍA of Illinois, Mr. CICILLINE, f
WELCH.
Mr. BEYER, and Ms. SCANLON. H.R. 6968: Mr. STIVERS, Mr. CICILLINE, Mr.
H.R. 6742: Mr. BERGMAN, Mr. TIFFANY, and UPTON, Ms. SLOTKIN, and Mr. CASE. PETITIONS, ETC.
Mr. MAST. H.R. 6976: Mr. HICE of Georgia.
H.R. 6748: Mr. WELCH, Mr. TONKO, Mr. H.R. 6984: Ms. NORTON, Mr. TRONE, and Mr. Under clause 3 of rule XII, petitions
SUOZZI, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New DEUTCH. and papers were laid on the clerk’s
York, Ms. SPANBERGER, Mr. NEGUSE, and Mr. H.R. 6987: Mr. FITZPATRICK and Mr. RUSH. desk and referred as follows:
BRINDISI. H.R. 6993: Mr. GOSAR, Mr. KHANNA, Mr.
PALLONE, and Mr. GOODEN. 101. The SPEAKER presented a petition of
H.R. 6784: Mr. GOHMERT.
H.R. 6788: Mr. EVANS, Mr. CLAY, and Mr. H.R. 7004: Mr. CLEAVER. the Township of Hillsborough, NJ, relative
LUCAS. H.R. 7010: Mr. PAYNE, Ms. BLUNT ROCH- to a resolution in support of Coronavirus Re-
H.R. 6802: Mr. LATTA, Mr. GOODEN, Mr. ESTER, Mr. TAYLOR, Mr. BROWN of Maryland, lief Package, H.R. 6467, Coronavirus Commu-
STEWART, Mr. BUDD, Mr. KUSTOFF of Ten- Mr. EVANS, and Mr. GALLAGHER. nity Relief Act; to the Committee on Over-
nessee, and Mr. WATKINS. H.R. 7017: Mr. RIGGLEMAN. sight and Reform.
H.R. 6805: Mr. BABIN. H.R. 7020: Ms. NORTON, Ms. JACKSON LEE, 102. Also, a petition of the Town of Farm-
H.R. 6813: Ms. STEFANIK, Mrs. LESKO, and and Mr. HASTINGS. ington, NY, relative to Resolution 164-2020,
Ms. PORTER. H.R. 7022: Mr. KIND, Mrs. AXNE, Mr. COX of in support of federal funding related to the
H.R. 6814: Mr. CÁRDENAS. California, Ms. FINKENAUER, Mr. DELGADO, coronavirus pandemic that is directly deliv-
H.R. 6820: Mr. STANTON, Mr. WELCH, Mr. Mrs. KIRKPATRICK, Mr. KELLY of Mississippi, ered to all municipalities regardless of popu-
KIM, Ms. FINKENAUER, Ms. OMAR, and Ms. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, and Mr. lation size; to the Committee on Oversight
MOORE. BUTTERFIELD. and Reform.
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Congressional Record
E PL
UR M
IB NU
U U
S
116 th CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION
United States
of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE
Vol. 166 WASHINGTON, THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2020 No. 100
Senate
The Senate met at 11 and 8 seconds U.S. SENATE, ADJOURNMENT UNTIL MONDAY,
a.m. and was called to order by the PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, JUNE 1, 2020, AT 3 P.M.
Honorable PAT ROBERTS, a Senator Washington, DC, May 28, 2020.
To the Senate: The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
from the State of Kansas.
f Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, pore. Under the previous order, the
of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby Senate stands adjourned until 3 p.m. on
APPOINTMENT OF ACTING appoint the Honorable PAT ROBERTS, a Sen-
Monday, June 1, 2020.
PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE ator from the State of Kansas, to perform
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the duties of the Chair. Thereupon, the Senate, at 11 and 43
CHUCK GRASSLEY, seconds a.m., adjourned until Monday,
clerk will please read a communication President pro tempore.
to the Senate from the President pro June 1, 2020, at 3 p.m.
tempore (Mr. GRASSLEY). Mr. ROBERTS thereupon assumed
The Senior Assistant Parliamen- the Chair as Acting President pro tem-
tarian read the following letter: pore.
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∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor.
S2621
.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E495
EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS
HONORING NATIONAL FOSTER sist young people during and after their transi- HONORING THE LIFE OF MICHAEL
CARE MONTH tion from foster care. The current coronavirus MORALES (LTC USAF RET.)
pandemic exposed the difficulties that many of
HON. JOHN LEWIS foster youth face in navigating adolescence HON. JENNIFFER GONZÁLEZ-COLÓN
OF GEORGIA and adulthood with limited support. Govern- OF PUERTO RICO
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
ment programs and authorities are often their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
only available resource, and we must do all
Thursday, May 28, 2020 we can to help restore hope and opportunities Thursday, May 28, 2020
Mr. LEWIS. Madam Speaker, I rise in honor to young people and address the real, critical Miss GONZÁLEZ-COLÓN of Puerto Rico.
of National Foster Care Month. disparities they face prior to, during, and be- Madam Speaker, I would like to honor the life
For more than thirty years, the month of yond this pandemic. I plan to introduce a com- and service of my friend, Michael Morales LTC
May has given voice to the unique, often com- prehensive legislative package soon to do just from Naranjito, Puerto Rico who passed away
plicated needs and situations of young people that. on May 8, 2020 at the young age of forty-two.
in our nation’s foster care system. Sadly, too During this National Foster Care Month, Michael was proud to serve his country. He
many of our young people are at risk of being may we all be rededicated to the task of lifting joined the United States Air Force, serving in
left out and left behind. The pandemic only ex- up the young people entrusted to our nation’s distinguished roles such as the principal man-
acerbated the neglect and abuse of young care while preparing and enabling them to ager for multinational military exercises cov-
people of all races, ages, and backgrounds in succeed. ering 32 nations across Central America,
Georgia and across our country. South America, and the Caribbean, also as in-
For these reasons, it is important that, dur- f structor and evaluator pilot for the C–7 and C–
ing National Foster Care Month, we recognize 130, as Commander of the 538th Air Expedi-
the nearly half million children who are cur- HONORING THE LIFE OF ARMY tionary Advisory Squadron, and as a Legisla-
rently in our nation’s child welfare system. SPC. JUAN MIGUEL MENDEZ tive Liaison for the Secretary of Defense on
Madam Speaker, they must know that, despite COVARRUBIAS acquisitions and sustainment on programs for
all that is happening in our nation and around the new Air Force One and KC–46 air tanker
the world, I along with many other Members of programs.
Congress, mentors, volunteers, friends, and HON. TJ COX He also served as a Senior Advisor to
extended families love and value each and OF CALIFORNIA former Small Business Administrator Linda
every young person in foster care. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES McMahon and was responsible for bringing
We must recommit to doing all we can to the Secretary to the Island for HUBZone
maximize their capacity and reaffirm our belief Thursday, May 28, 2020 events geared towards fueling small business
in their hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Foster Mr. COX of California. Madam Speaker, I growth in historically underutilized business
youth must trust and know that, on the darkest rise today in honor of Army Specialist Juan zones. As a Senior Advisor to the Adminis-
of days, we are always in their corner, and Miguel Mendez Covarrubias of Hanford, Cali- trator, he also led the agency’s policy efforts
they are always in our hearts and thoughts. fornia, who gave his life in service to his coun- in Puerto Rico; working closely with federal
We must each do our part to ensure that try on March 11, 2020. While deployed in sup- and local government, banking sector, and en-
every young person and aspiring adoptive and port of Operation Inherent Resolve at Camp trepreneurs to develop policy aimed at fos-
foster parent is able to fulfill their dreams of a Taji, Iraq, his unit was engaged by enemy in- tering entrepreneurial repatriation, economic
stable, loving family. Many adults want to direct fire and he lost his life. He was 27 years growth, and assist with the Island’s economic
open their homes and their hearts, but they old. status.
face barriers because the system says that A Central Valley native, Juan Miguel was a Michael lived a life of public service. Presi-
they practice the wrong religion, love the beloved son, brother, and husband. In 2018 dent Woodrow Wilson once said that ‘‘You are
wrong person, or are not married. Many chil- he married his longtime girlfriend Bianca Meza not here merely to make a living. You are here
dren enter the system because of similar dis- and that same year he enlisted in the United to enable the world to live more amply, with
crimination, and some experience it while in States Army as a Signal Support System Spe- greater vision, and with a finer spirit of hope
public care. cialist. Juan Miguel was assigned to 1st Bat- and achievement. You are here to enrich the
For these reasons, I am proud to sponsor talion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cav- world. . .’’ Michael was the best of us, an ex-
the bipartisan Every Child Deserves a Family alry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, ample to us all.
Act to end discrimination in our child welfare Texas. Thank you, Michael. Rest in Peace.
system and expand every opportunity for a Descansa en Paz.
safe, forever family. I will continue working Juan Miguel aspired to make the world a
better place and always pushed himself to f
with my colleagues to pass this critical legisla-
tion and provide much-needed protections for lead by example. He is remembered fondly as OBSERVING THE 102ND ANNIVER-
children and adults in the child welfare sys- someone with a big heart and who always put SARY OF AZERBAIJAN’S REPUB-
tem. the needs of others before his own. Our nation LIC
Inspired by the experiences of many former has lost a great warrior. He is a true American
Hero and his memory will live on in the hearts
foster youth in Metro Atlanta, I am deeply con-
of those who love him.
HON. STEVE CHABOT
cerned about the more than 20,000 youth who OF OHIO
age out of the foster care system every year. Juan Miguel’s awards and decorations in-
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Government authorities share a unique and clude the Global War on Terrorism Medal, Na-
distinct responsibility to support those youth tional Defense Service Ribbon, and the Army Thursday, May 28, 2020
who transition from foster care to independent Service Ribbon. I ask my colleagues to join Mr. CHABOT. Madam Speaker, as Co-Chair
living. Far too often, these young adults go on me in a moment of remembrance for Army of the Congressional Azerbaijan Caucus, I rise
to receive less education, hold fewer jobs, ex- Specialist Juan Miguel Mendez Covarrubias, today to recognize Azerbaijan on the occasion
perience more homelessness and housing in- and for all those who have made the ultimate of its 102nd Republic Day. Azerbaijan is a crit-
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stability, and often experience imprisonment at sacrifice for our country. ical partner of the United States in the region
higher rates than their peers who did not ex- Juan Miguel is survived by his wife Bianca, and maintains a proud heritage as an inde-
perience foster care. his mother Monica Mendez, his father Alfredo pendent country.
Federal, state, and local government have a Covarrubias and his younger brother and sis- Upon declaring independence in 1918,
moral duty to do all we can to protect and as- ters. Azerbaijan earned the unique distinction of
∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor.
Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.
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E496 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 28, 2020
being the first secular parliamentary democ- of the scandalous government spying on the their own stories in their own words. She has
racy in the Muslim world. Azerbaijan was also Donald Trump Campaign and the rogue FBI spotlighted those who face violent attacks, jail
among the first states to grant women the and intelligence agencies conspiracy to sabo- and worse for their courage in speaking out,
right to vote. This stands as a testament to the tage the Donald Trump Presidency, I include heroes like Tola Moeun in Cambodia,
Islamic world of the universal validity of demo- in the RECORD today’s revelations in the The Mahmud Rajab in Uzbekistan and Gaspar
cratic aspirations, and that self-government Washington Times by Rowan Scarborough en- Matalaev in Turkmenistan. Because of Judy
and the respect for individual rights is not in- titled ‘Tail wagging the dog’: and ILRF, there are networks of organizers
imical to their traditions. Not much was going on in the Michael and advocates around the world who are able
Unfortunately, Azerbaijani independence Flynn probe until The Washington Post and to provide needed assistance to those fighting
was soon snuffed out by totalitarian USSR, a leaker reenergized the FBI, according to a for labor rights.
which, not unlike Russia under Vladimir Putin, newly disclosed transcript of closed-door tes- Judy’s work exemplifies the concept of
sought to spread values much different to timony by former bureau Director James B. intersectionality. She has seen that there are
Comey. many different forces used to oppress the
those espoused by the fledgling Azerbaijan The FBI had filled out the paperwork to
Democratic Republic. After the fall of the So- rights of workers, and she has worked to bring
end the Flynn-Russia probe, but Mr. Comey
viet Union, Azerbaijan regained its independ- halted the closing in early January 2017.
together those fighting them. Laborers in the
ence and was recognized by the United Transcripts emerged of the incoming White fields don’t just face poor working conditions
States. House national security adviser talking by but live in societies rife with poverty and rac-
Today, Azerbaijan remains a close partner phone with Kremlin envoy Sergey Kislyak. ism. Children in the tobacco fields are not just
to the United States and our allies. Not only The retired three-star Army general and being exploited for their labor but are sub-
has Azerbaijan been an integral part of our ef- Mr. Kislyak talked about not overreacting to jected to environmental and chemical hazards.
economic sanctions that President Obama Women in sweatshops are not just subjected
forts in Afghanistan, but it has also been an imposed on Dec. 31, 2016, in retaliation for
excellent partner in the wider war on terror. It to poverty-level wages, they are often the tar-
Moscow’s election interference.
is also noteworthy that as a Muslim country, get of gender-based violence and harassment.
Mr. Comey went to work. He provided top-
Azerbaijan enjoys strong relations with the secret call intercept material to Director of As a result of Judy’s leadership, last year, the
Jewish community and maintains a strong National Intelligence James R. Clapper, who International Labour Organization adopted a
friendship with our ally Israel. Finally, Azer- told Mr. Obama. At a Jan. 5 White House convention and recommendations on violence
baijan is a critical energy provider for Europe, meeting, the FBI chief and Mr. Obama again and harassment in the world of work.
playing an important role helping our allies discussed that Flynn had talked with Rus- Judy Gearhart has done the work, at
sians during the transition. There is no law, UNICEF’s monitoring and evaluation office,
there diversify their energy supply away from per se, against such communications. working on women’s rights and democratiza-
a domineering Russia. And there things stood, Mr. Comey said in tion efforts in Mexico, with the ILO’s Inter-
With this partnership and Azerbaijan’s com- his most extensive narrative of what he did national Program on the Elimination of Child
mitment to our friendship in mind, I would en- in the pivotal January time frame when the
Labor in Honduras, on developing research
courage my colleagues to join me today in Obama team was leaving the White House to
Donald Trump. and training programs for workers at Social
honoring Azerbaijan on its Republic Day.
Accountability International, and, of course, at
f f
ILRF. Not only does she put her knowledge to
IN MEMORY OF FORMER HONORING JUDY GEARHART work, she shares that knowledge through her
CONGRESSMAN SAM JOHNSON teaching. She has served as a tutor for many
HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY of us, not just on labor policies but, more im-
HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON OF ILLINOIS
portantly, about the facts on the ground. And,
more formally, Judy is a long-time adjunct pro-
OF TEXAS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
fessor at Columbia University’s School for
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, May 28, 2020 International Affairs, where she teaches stu-
Thursday, May 28, 2020 Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Madam Speaker, I rise dents about international human rights and de-
Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, today to celebrate and thank Judy Gearhart velopment policy.
today I rise to celebrate the life of a trusted for her leadership at the International Labor Judy Gearhart and ILRF have stood with
colleague, dear friend, proud Texan, and true Rights Forum. Judy, the executive director of cocoa workers in Cote D’Ivoire and Ghana,
patriot, former Congressman Sam Johnson. ILRF since March 2011, will retire in June. cotton workers in Uzbekistan, garment work-
What impressed me the most is that, after While she will leave that position, I know that ers in Bangladesh and fruit workers in Hon-
serving in the Air Force during the Korean and she will never leave the fight to protect the duras. Judy has provided guidance and inspi-
Vietnam Wars, Sam Johnson did not dis- rights of workers around the world. ration to those struggling for fair pay and just
appear into what would have been a well-de- In 2013, 1,134 garment workers were killed treatment for their labors. For all she has
served retirement. His love for his country and and 2,500 injured as the 9-story Rana Plaza done, and for all she will do in the future, I
affinity for public service led to a fruitful career factory collapsed—the deadliest garment fac- want to express my deep appreciation and
in the House of Representatives. Known for tory disaster in history. The vast majority of gratitude.
his tenacity as a legislator and shrewdness as those killed and injured as a result of cor- f
a statesman, Sam Johnson certainly left his porate neglect were women. Like the 1911 Tri-
REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF SAM
mark on this institution. As senior members of angle Shirtwaist Factory fire in the United
FELTON
the Texas Congressional Delegation, he and I States, the disaster spurred activists to push
made progress together on important issues for reforms. Judy Gearhart helped lead the
that will benefit our home state for years to fight and won agreements with the garment in-
HON. MARCY KAPTUR
OF OHIO
come. dustry to make improvements—although much
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Texas progress remains to be made. I had the privi-
Congressional Delegation, I’d like to extend lege to work with Judy in the aftermath of Thursday, May 28, 2020
my sincere condolences to Sam Johnson’s Rana Plaza and have continued to support her Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today
family, friends, and loved ones during these and ILRF on international labor rights cam- to remember the extraordinary life of Samuel
trying times. paigns since then. Like so many others, I have ‘‘Sam’’ Felton, Jr., one of Lorain County’s
f relied on her expertise, her experience and most honored, visible, and tireless veterans,
her passion for improving the lives of working and a valued father figure for his entire com-
NEW SCANDAL CONFIRMATION women, men and children around the world. munity.
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
Judy has made it her practice not to pro- Sam Felton was the only person from Lorain
HON. JOE WILSON mote herself, but she focused on lifting up the County to win the Navy Cross in Vietnam. He
OF SOUTH CAROLINA Labor Rights Defenders who are organizing never rested on his laurels and built a legacy
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and mobilizing every day, often at great risk to of service to Lorain, Ohio. He served three
themselves. She has brought workers’ leaders tours of duty during the Vietnam War with the
Thursday, May 28, 2020 to meet with members of Congress, the Ad- U.S. Marine Corps from December 1968 to
Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam ministration, the media and the public—mak- August 1971. While serving in Vietnam, he re-
Speaker, every day new evidence is revealed ing sure that they have the opportunity to tell ceived both the Navy Cross for heroism and
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E497
the Purple Heart for being wounded in com- served its religious community and the Madam Speaker, more than half of the U.S.
bat. Waynesboro region at large. population will likely menstruate every month
The Navy Cross is the second-highest deco- The council’s community service includes for decades of their lives. Unfortunately, stud-
ration for valor in combat in the Marines and participating in annual golf tournaments that ies have shown that 1 in 4 women and girls
U.S. Navy; fewer than 500 were awarded dur- benefit Waynesboro Human Services, spon- report that they struggle to afford menstrual
ing the Vietnam War. Sam earned it in June soring monthly ‘‘Bring Your Mug to Church’’ products. This lack of menstrual products is
1969 by valiantly rescuing three wounded Ma- Sundays to foster fellowship among parish- often called ‘‘period poverty,’’ and it can ad-
rines during an 11-day battle near An Hoa, ioners and support parish activities, as well as versely affect a person’s health and well-
Qung Nam Province. providing college scholarships to children of being. It is further heartbreaking that 1 in 5
Fifty years later, in 2019, Sam was inducted council members. Additionally, the council has women and girls report missing work or school
into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame for his participated in the Pennsylvania Department of due to a lack of access to menstrual products.
contributions to fellow veterans, the commu- Transportation’s Adopt-a-Highway program for Period poverty, in fact, is linked with self-per-
nity, and our nation. more than 30 years. ception and mental health. It also exacerbates
Sam owned a karate academy and billiard The St. Andrew Knights of Columbus Coun- the cycle of poverty by further marginalizing
parlors and worked at U.S. Steel, but his heart cil 2068 has made an indelible mark on the
those who menstruate, causing them to with-
and soul was in assisting fellow veterans. In Waynesboro community. On behalf of the 13th
draw from daily life, forego pay, or miss edu-
45 years of veteran advocacy, Sam supported Congressional District of Pennsylvania, I thank
cational opportunities. It also impacts one’s
fellow veterans as Commander and Life Mem- this organization for its steadfast commitment
physical health, as the risk of infections in-
ber of the Disabled American Veterans Lorain to our region and congratulate the council on
crease with use of substitutes, such as paper
Chapter 20; Ohio Chairman of the Advisory reaching its 100th anniversary.
towels or toilet paper, or because of an inabil-
Committee of Valor Home (a nonprofit organi- f
ity to change products as frequently as rec-
zation providing services for homeless vet-
erans); delegate to the Lorain Veterans Coun- PROXY VOTING LAWSUIT ommended.
cil; member, First Marine Division Association; This is unthinkable and simply wrong. Men-
member, National Association of Black Vet- HON. JOE WILSON strual equity—one’s equitable access to men-
erans; co-founder and three time president of OF SOUTH CAROLINA strual products—is not a luxury; it is a health
the Lorain Veterans Council and past com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES right, and a human right.
mander of AMVETS. Sam received the 2006 Thursday, May 28, 2020 Of course, this period poverty existed long
Vietnam Service Multiple Medals Award, the Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam before the COVID–19 pandemic; but today,
Ohio Secretary of State’s 2007 Outstanding Speaker, I was grateful to be added as a with over 40 million Americans now out of
Veterans Award and was named the Lorain plaintiff in the important lawsuit challenging the work due to the pandemic, the socioeconomic
Ohio Veteran of the Year in 2010. constitutionality of proxy voting initiated by Re- and health challenges of individuals facing pe-
In addition to dedicating himself to veterans, publican Leader KEVIN MCCARTHY, Whip riod poverty is further enhanced and height-
Sam advocated for the youth of Lorain Coun- STEVE SCALISE, and Conference Chair LIZ ened.
ty. He founded the Sam Felton Athletic Club CHENEY. Congressman MORGAN GRIFFITH, a
and Youth Center, the Jackie Jones Felton Madam Speaker, periods do not wait for
graduate of Washington and Lee University
Scholarship Fund for college-bound students, pandemics. Ultimately, menstrual products are
Law School, of Virginia presented the extraor-
co-founded the Samuel Felton Jr. Community essential to the health and economic well-
dinary legal arguments clearly documenting
Development Program, and worked with kids being of individuals in both overcoming and
proxy voting as unconstitutional.
and veterans interested in musical outreach. Allowing Congress to vote remotely is sim- recovering from the COVID–19 pandemic.
In 2018, the Lorain City Council named a ply irresponsible. Although we are currently in My resolution raises awareness regarding
section of East 36th Street ‘‘Sgt. Samuel L. a crisis, this Wuhan Virus pandemic is no ex- period poverty. It also urges local, State, and
Felton Jr. Blvd.’’ to honor Sam for his service cuse to forget our Constitution which clearly Federal agencies to ensure free access to
to the City of Lorain and its people. For all says that we have to have a majority of Mem- menstrual products for individuals in need dur-
these awards and acclamations Sam received, bers present for a quorum to do business. ing the COVID–19 response, including for es-
he will be remembered admirably by the thou- If Congress was able to vote on the House sential frontline workers; students; low-income
sands of people to whom he ministered by Floor over these last few months without put- families; individuals experiencing homeless-
providing peer support to fellow veterans, get- ting lives at risk, surely Members can conduct ness; and incarcerated and detained individ-
ting them Veterans Affairs services, or even official business in a safe manner that follows uals.
just driving veterans to their appointments. guidelines from the Centers for Disease Con-
Truly, Sam was a national hero, and a hero of Additionally, to encourage greater donation
trol going forward. During the War of 1812, the
Lorain, Ohio. and distribution of menstrual products to indi-
Capitol Building itself was burned, but Con-
We offer Sam Felton’s family and friends viduals who need such products, I introduced
gress members still met in Washington.
our prayers and deepest hopes that they find the Good Samaritan Menstrual Products Act.
The constitutionality of this new rule must
comfort in the wonderful memories and lasting In times of tragedy and need, Americans have
be questioned. Our constitution says that we
deeds of his precious life. May they find joy in must have a majority to vote and yet this new always come together in the spirit of gen-
understanding what his legacy meant to each rule would allow a few to vote for all, that is erosity. But alas, due to certain menstrual
person he touched and his deep dedication to simply not right. Many Americans are getting products like tampons being considered
building the people of Lorain forward. back to work as we recover from this Wuhan ‘‘Class 2’’ medical products, such designations
f Virus pandemic, Congress should be no dif- deter the donation of such products—out of
ferent. fear of liability issues. As such, liability con-
CONGRATULATING ST. ANDREW cerns, even for products donated in good faith,
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL f
limit both the supply and availability of men-
2068 GOOD SAMARITAN MENSTRUAL strual products, as well as individuals’ choices
PRODUCTS ACT AND PERIOD in how their menstruation needs are met.
HON. JOHN JOYCE POVERTY AWARENESS RESOLU- As such, my bill—the Good Samaritan Men-
OF PENNSYLVANIA TION strual Products Act—would provide the liability
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES protection for donated and distributed men-
Thursday, May 28, 2020 HON. GRACE MENG strual products that are given and received in
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
OF NEW YORK good faith. As we strive to expand one’s ability
Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speak-
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to access these products, my bill would sup-
er, it is with great pride that I congratulate the
St. Andrew Knights of Columbus Council 2068 Thursday, May 28, 2020 port the generosity of those who donate and
on reaching its 100th anniversary. The council Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to distribute these products.
was founded on May 23, 1920 under the lead- introduce two pieces of legislation in recogni- Madam Speaker, as I continue to fight for
ership of Grand Knight FJ Foley and chaplain tion of this week being National Period Pov- menstrual equity for all, I urge my colleagues
William J. O’Callahan. For a century, the St. erty Awareness Week, and today being Men- to support both pieces of legislation so we can
Andrew Knights of Columbus Council has strual Hygiene Day. end period poverty—once and for all.
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E498 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 28, 2020
PERSONAL EXPLANATION provisions such as this in the HEROES Act AMERICAN HERO SAM JOHNSON
would provide a much-needed boost to our
HON. BILL FLORES economy. Unfortunately, the two PPP bills we HON. JOE WILSON
OF TEXAS are voting on in the House today fail to include OF SOUTH CAROLINA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the full gamut of improvements from the HE- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
ROES Act, including this additional tax assist-
Thursday, May 28, 2020 Thursday, May 28, 2020
ance for small businesses.
Mr. FLORES. Madam Speaker, had I been Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam
I will be voting in support of these bills but
present on May 27, 2020, I would have voted Speaker, my wife Roxanne and I will always
believe that it is essential that we not stop
Yea on S. 3744, the Uyghur Human Rights cherish the inspiring opportunity to serve in
here—Congress must improve the PPP and
Policy Act of 2020. Communist China’s op- Congress with Congressman Sam Johnson
small business assistance beyond what these
pression of millions of its minority Uyghurs who died yesterday. He and his late wife Shir-
bills would provide. The HEROES Act pro-
population is a gross violation of human rights. ley were always encouraging and the embodi-
vides a strong model for what these changes
In passing this bill, Congress is showing that ment of American Patriots. I include in the
should entail, and I urge my colleagues to
the United States will not turn a blind eye to RECORD a worthy tribute published today in
continue improving these programs, even after
the suffering of those oppressed by the Com- The Washington Times written by Will
these PPP bills pass the House.
munist Chinese regime. Weissert.
f [From the Associated Press, May 27, 2020]
f
SAM JOHNSON, EX-TEXAS GOP CONGRESSMAN
H.R. 7010, PAYCHECK PROTECTION AND VIETNAM POW, DIES
PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY ACT OF CONGRATULATING THOMAS ‘‘TOM’’
TROMPETER ON HIS RETIREMENT (By Will Weissert)
2020 AND H.R. 6782, THE TRUTH Former Texas Rep. Sam Johnson, a mili-
ACT tary pilot who spent years as a prisoner of
HON. ADAM SMITH war in Vietnam before serving more than
HON. JOE COURTNEY two decades in Congress, died Wednesday at
OF WASHINGTON age 89.
OF CONNECTICUT
The conservative Republican, who lived in
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
the northern Dallas suburb of Plano, died at
Thursday, May 28, 2020 Thursday, May 28, 2020 a Plano hospital of natural causes unrelated
to the coronavirus outbreak, said his former
Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, today spokesman, Ray Sullivan.
Mr. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker,
the House of Representatives is voting on two Johnson flew nearly 100 combat missions
I rise to honor and congratulate Thomas
pieces of legislation designed to improve upon in Korea and Vietnam. He was flying a bomb-
‘‘Tom’’ Trompeter, President and CEO of ing mission in 1966 when he was shot down
the Paycheck Protection Program—the Pay-
HealthPoint in Washington State, on his retire- and wounded. He was imprisoned in the infa-
check Protection Program Flexibility Act of
ment. mous ‘‘Hanoi Hilton’’ for nearly seven years,
2020, and the TRUTH Act.
Tom Trompeter’s career spans over 30 mostly in solitary confinement. He retired
Although I am a cosponsor of both pieces of
years in the non-profit, healthcare, and social from the Air Force as a colonel in 1979, after
legislation and will vote in favor of them, I re- a 29-year career.
main concerned that these bills fall short of services sectors. Tom began his career as Ex- The ardent conservative and anti-com-
the Paycheck Protection Program fixes which ecutive Director for Northwest Regional Pri- munist was elected to Congress in 1991 after
were already included in the HEROES Act— mary Care Association (NWRPCA) and the six years in the Texas House of Representa-
legislation that the House has passed and Association of Community and Migrant Health tives. He vowed to stay a maximum of 12
which is pending action by the Senate. Centers in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Wash- years, though he served more than double
For example—I am glad that the Paycheck ington. Tom left NWRPCA as CEO before that.
moving on to work at Community Health Cen- Johnson had been a POW with U.S. Sen.
Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 in- John McCain, and although they clashed in
cludes provisions to modify the use of PPP ters of King County, now known as
Congress, Johnson defended McCain in 2015,
loans, providing businesses with 24 weeks (in- HealthPoint. In 1998 Tom transitioned into the when then-presidential candidate Donald
stead of just 8 weeks) to use the loan. This bill roles of President and CEO at HealthPoint Trump suggested he wasn’t a hero because
also makes more flexible the requirement im- and has dedicated 20 years of his career in he’d been captured. Johnson announced in
posed by the Small Business Administration those roles. January 2017 that he would retire at the end
that 75 percent of the loan be used for payroll, Tom’s three prominent areas of impact at of his term. When Johnson stepped down in
and instead only requires 60 percent of the 2019, at age 88, he was the oldest member of
HealthPoint were public policy to support the the U.S. House.
loan to be used for payroll in order to receive expansion and financial health of community ‘‘Scripture tells us ‘There is a time for ev-
the full amount of forgiveness. health centers, developing vital partnerships erything, and a season for every activity
Unfortunately, this bill fails to include many and networks to strengthen the work being under heaven,’ ’’ Johnson wrote in a January
of the provisions from the HEROES Act that done by HealthPoint, and good stewardship as 2017 letter to constituents, telling them he
are urgently needed to assist in our nation’s a passionate and dependable leader. would retire at the end of his term. ‘‘For me,
economic recovery. For example, the HE- the Lord has made clear that the season of
Tom led with the belief that when we make my life in Congress is coming to an end.’’
ROES Act extended eligibility for PPP loans to even one person healthier, we help not only Another former Texas congressman, Ralph
nonprofits of all sizes and would carve out that one person, but also that person’s whole Hall, was the oldest-ever member of the U.S.
funds specifically for the smallest busi- community. And that’s both a privilege and a House when he left office at age 91 in 2014.
nesses—those with 10 or fewer employees— gift. It is clear Tom has led with that belief Hall, a Republican and World War II pilot,
ensuring that they are not left behind. By ex- from the beginning. Tom has guided was 95 when he died in March 2019.
panding PPP to all nonprofits, the HEROES HealthPoint’s growth to its current state of Samuel Robert Johnson was born on Oct.
Act would allow chambers of commerce and 11, 1930, in San Antonio. He grew up in Dal-
over 17 comprehensive primary care centers las, married Shirley Lee Melton in 1950 and
other nonprofit entities that are not classified that provide innovative, integrated care be-
as a 501(c)(3) to take advantage of this impor- graduated the following year from his home-
yond traditional healthcare models. town’s Southern Methodist University with
tant assistance. Additionally, the HEROES Act a degree in business administration.
removes the size restrictions for nonprofits, al- Tom’s influence can be seen in the 100,000
Johnson enlisted in the military at age 20
lowing nonprofits with more than 500 employ- plus patients served annually, 900 current em-
and served during the Korean and Vietnam
ees to still maintain payroll during this time of ployees, and the students who have had the wars. He was 35 on April 16,1966, and flying a
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
economic hardship, while their services are opportunity to learn under Tom’s leadership night mission carrying loads of napalm,
needed more than ever. and go on to pursue a career in community when his aircraft came under heavy enemy
The HEROES Act—section 20235—also health. fire over Vietnam.
The gun of Johnson’s F–4 Phantom II
clarifies that expenses paid or incurred with Madam Speaker, it is with great admiration
jammed and the plane was hit. Its right en-
proceeds from PPP loans (or EIDL grants) that I recognize and congratulate Tom gine caught fire, forcing Johnson and co-
would not result in the denial of any federal Trompeter on his retirement and the legacy he pilot Larry Chesley to eject, and the future
tax deduction. Small businesses need as will leave in the healthcare community in congressman broke his arm and back and
much support as possible at this time, and tax Washington State. dislocated his shoulder.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E499
Johnson recalled trudging through the jun- his adult daughters, Gini Johnson Mulligan The toll on tribal nations isn’t just affecting
gle before being surrounded by North Viet- and Beverly Johnson Briney, and 10 grand- those who are sick. Many Native Americans
namese soldiers who took him to the infa- children. His son, James Robert ‘‘Bob’’ John- work in service jobs that have disproportion-
mous Hoa Lo Prison, better known as the son, died in 2013 at age 61.
ately been lost, and many tribal governments
‘‘Hanoi Hilton.’’ He endured what he would f
later describe as 3-foot by 8-foot, rat-infested rely on income from business enterprises that
‘‘dark and filthy cell. COMMEMORATING THE 102ND AN- have closed their doors to comply with stay-at-
‘‘Forty-two of those months were spent in NIVERSARY OF THE AZERBAIJAN home orders.
solitary confinement with 10 other fine DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC The Heroes Act was written with these com-
American patriots because the Vietcong la- munities in mind.
beled us ‘die hard’ resistors,’’ Johnson wrote This bill represents the House of Represent-
in 2015. HON. KEVIN HERN atives’ commitment to fulfilling the trust and
He recalled tapping code on the wall to OF OKLAHOMA
communicate with other Americans being treaty responsibility of the United States gov-
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
held, and that ‘‘our captors would blare ernment to tribal nations across the United
nasty recordings over the loud speaker of Thursday, May 28, 2020 States.
Americans protesting back home.’’ Mr. KEVIN HERN of Oklahoma. Madam The Heroes Act provides an additional $20
While speaking on the House floor in 2003, Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the billion to tribal governments in the form of
Johnson said his faith only got stronger grants to help address the catastrophic impact
102nd anniversary of Republic Day in Azer-
through captivity. He recalled how one day of this virus and the economic toll it has taken
his captors put him against a wall and prom- baijan, which recognizes the establishment of
the first independent, secular democracy in on Indian Country and their surrounding com-
ised to execute him with machine guns.
‘‘I started praying harder than I have ever the Middle East in 1918. munities.
prayed in my life. In a few seconds, the guns While they spent much of the 20th century The Heroes Act expands the use of the
went click, click, click, click, click,’’ John- under Soviet control, their undying faith in de- funds provided by the CARES Act to account
son told the chamber. ‘‘It is only because of mocracy was rewarded in 1991 when the for lost revenue, which is critical to providing
the grace of God I survived.’’ Azerbaijan Democratic Republic reclaimed its effective relief for tribal governments.
He was released and flew out of Hanoi on It is important to note that unlike the portion
Feb. 12, 1973. He earned a master’s degree at
independence after the collapse of the USSR.
The United States swiftly established diplo- of the Coronavirus Relief Fund provided to
George Washington University in Wash-
ington in 1976. He retired from the Air Force matic relations in 1992. states and local governments, the fund for trib-
three years later and began a home-building A reliable American ally, Azerbaijani troops al governments explicitly does not prescribe a
business. He was elected to the Texas Legis- have fought side-by-side with Americans population-based formula for distribution to
lature in 1984 and went to Congress following against international terrorism in Afghanistan, tribes. Such a formula would be inappropriate
a special election in 1991, after Rep. Steve Balkans, and Iraq. They help secure inter- given that population is not a proper measure
Bartlett resigned to become Dallas mayor. national energy security of our allies through of economic impact that a tribal government
Representing Plano and other conservative and tribally-run businesses have experienced.
northern suburbs of Dallas, Johnson was
their support of Southern Gas Corridor and the
diversification of energy routes. A friend of This bill also does not codify the current In-
known for his work on veterans’ affairs and
for his efforts to bolster the financial stand- Israel, they provide 40 percent of Israel’s oil dian Housing Block Grant formula that the De-
ing of the Social Security program. He took consumption. Azerbaijan is a secular Muslim- partment of Treasury is using, because such a
office backing term limits, yet he stayed in majority country dedicated to religious plu- formula is not representative of the intent of
Congress more than double his promised ralism and home to thriving Christian and Jew- the program.
maximum of 12 years. ish communities. It is the intent of Congress that the Depart-
When Bill Clinton ran for president in 1992, ment of Treasury works with the Department
As an Oklahoman and member of the Con-
Johnson and other Republican military vet- of Interior and tribal governments to develop a
erans in Congress alleged that Russian intel- gressional Azerbaijan Caucus, I am proud that
ligence lured Clinton to Moscow during the Azerbaijan’s friendship with the United States new formula that accounts for the tribes’ ag-
Vietnam war when ‘‘I was sitting in a POW is celebrated in my home state through the gregate expenditures and the total economic
camp in Vietnam eating fish eyes and pig Oklahoma-Azerbaijan National Guard Partner- hit they have taken as a result of this pan-
fat.’’ Questions about Clinton’s patriotism ship. demic.
dogged him during his first campaign, but I once again wish to extend my sincere con- This is an issue that is critical for Indian
the allegations made by Johnson and the gratulations to our partners in Azerbaijan on Country. I am proud to have voted for the He-
others were largely soon forgotten. this worthy day. roes Act and look forward to seeing the pro-
As a prisoner of war, Johnson shared a cell gram implemented as Congress intended to
with McCain, who would later become a U.S. f
senator from Arizona. But the pair later
support tribal governments.
ADVOCATING FOR CRITICAL FUND- f
clashed on political issues—including
McCain’s efforts to eventually help nor- ING FOR TRIBAL NATIONS IN
malize U.S. relations with Vietnam. Still, THE HEROES ACT RECOGNIZING AND HONORING JON-
Johnson criticized Trump for suggesting ATHAN CORONADO, KATHERINE
McCain was no hero. HON. RAUL RUIZ PARDY, AND AINSLEY POWERS
‘‘Comments like those of Donald Trump, or
OF CALIFORNIA
any other American, suggesting that vet-
erans like Senator John McCain or any other IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. DUSTY JOHNSON
OF SOUTH DAKOTA
of America’s honorable POWs are less brave Thursday, May 28, 2020
for having been captured are not only mis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
guided, they are ungrateful and naı̈ve,’’ Mr. RUIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise today in
support of the Heroes Act and to address the Thursday, May 28, 2020
Johnson wrote in 2015.
In February 2018—marking the 45th anni- critical need for emergency funding for tribal Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Madam
versary of the operation that led to his re- nations. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor
lease—Johnson donated a chipped green tin Native Americans have been hit dispropor- Jonathan Coronado from Stevens Senior High
cup issued by his captors and tube of tooth- tionately hard by the COVID–19 pandemic. School, Katherine Pardy from O’Gorman High
paste he smuggled out of North Vietnam to The Navajo Nation has experienced nearly School, and Ainsley Powers from Brookings
the Smithsonian’s National Museum of
American History. Johnson recalled then
5,000 positive cases and the loss of more High School for their recognition as 2020 U.S.
how he and other prisoners would commu- than 100 lives. In addition, the Colorado River Presidential Scholars.
nicate by tapping on the walls and how he’d Indians Tribes on the border of my district and Jonathan, Katherine, and Ainsley have been
hold his cup against them to amplify sounds Arizona have seen a sudden rise in cases recognized for their impressive scholastic
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
and better hear their messages. over the past weeks. achievements, leadership skills, and service to
In his autobiography, ‘‘Captive Warriors: A Native Americans remain at particular risk their communities. The U.S. Presidential
Vietnam POW’s Story,’’ Johnson wrote of because they face greater health disparities Scholars Program honors our nation’s most
the cup: ‘‘For me, it symbolized our war of and have higher rates of underlying health distinguished graduating high school seniors,
resistance for seven long years. It had been a
means of communication and, as such, a
conditions than the general population. In ad- and I am proud of each of these students for
means of survival.’’ dition, those living on rural reservations have bringing this high honor to the State of South
Johnson’s wife died on Dec. 3, 2015 at their reduced access to health services and pre- Dakota. They have graduated in an unprece-
home in Plano at age 85. He is survived by ventative care. dented time and I’m sure they will each find
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E500 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 28, 2020
unparallel solutions to the issues they face. by the NYPD with their commendation for The similarity with America is obvious that
Each have shown determination in the face of meritorious and excellent police duty on three political enemies of Prime Minister Benjamin
hardship, confidence in the face of uncertainty, separate occasions and was given its pres- Netanyahu are abusing the legal system just
and humility in the face of adversity. I am tigious 20-year perfect attendance award in as the false efforts to impeach President Don-
proud of the contributions they each have 2018. ald Trump were a witch hunt. Forces who lose
made and will continue to make to South Da- On behalf of my constituents, the State of on issues at the ballot box seek to subvert the
kota. New York and our nation, I want to deeply votes of citizens.
Our state and country are better because of thank Detective Guidice for being a standard- f
hard working citizens like Jonathan, Katherine, bearer of honorable service in the New York
and Ainsley. I would like to congratulate them City Police Department. I wish him all the best RECOGNIZING REV. DR. DALE A.
each on their dedication and impressive rec- in his well-deserved retirement. MEYER
ognition. f
f
HON. JOHN SHIMKUS
WITCH HUNT IN ISRAEL OF ILLINOIS
JASON WARING IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
HON. JOE WILSON Thursday, May 28, 2020
HON. ED PERLMUTTER OF SOUTH CAROLINA Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I rise today
OF COLORADO IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to recognize the contributions of the Rev. Dr.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Dale A. Meyer upon the occasion of his retire-
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Thursday, May 28, 2020 ment as President of Concordia Seminary in
Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam
Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise St. Louis.
Speaker, just mere days after being sworn into
today to recognize and applaud Jason Waring In May 2005, Dr. Meyer became the 10th
office for a fifth term as Prime Minister, Ben-
for receiving the Adams County Mayors and President of Concordia Seminary. Over fifteen
jamin Netanyahu stood in an Israeli court to
Commissioners Youth Award. years later, on June 30, 2020, Dr. Meyer will
stand trial in what amounts to nothing more
Jason Waring is a 11th grader at Bollman start a new season in life, retiring and turning
than a political witch hunt. Formally charged
Technical Education Center/Legacy High over the reins of this beloved institution to new
with bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, Prime
School and received this award because his leadership.
Minister has denied all wrongdoing from the His contribution to the Seminary was im-
determination and hard work have allowed him very outset and has called for an open, tele-
to overcome adversities. mense. During his tenure, Concordia’s long-
vised trial so that the entire world can stand term debt was eliminated, its endowment
The dedication demonstrated by Jason witness to the circus the Israeli left has put to-
Waring is exemplary of the type of achieve- quadrupled, and it earned top marks from its
gether with the sole intention of humiliating most recent accreditation by the Higher Learn-
ment that can be attained with hard work and Israel’s longest serving premier in the hopes
perseverance. It is essential students at all ing Commission and the Association of Theo-
that he will step down. logical Schools.
levels strive to make the most of their edu- One of the charges in the criminal case
cation and develop a work ethic which will From the start of his tenure to the end, Dr.
against Prime Minister Netanyahu, known as Meyer worked alongside his wife Diane, the
guide them for the rest of their lives. ‘‘case 4000,’’ alleges unsubstantiated charges.
I extend my deepest congratulations to faculty and key staff to cultivate a culture that
The distinguished lawyer and Harvard pro- was service oriented and external facing. This
Jason Waring for winning the Adams County fessor Alan Dershowitz perhaps described it
Mayors and Commissioners Youth Award. I meant instituting activities designed to instill a
best when he said, ‘‘Netanyahu’s trial poses spirit of community volunteerism into first year
have no doubt he will exhibit the same dedica- great danger to democracy and the rule of
tion and character in all of his future accom- students. This meant adding park benches on
law. This is the first time in the history of any campus and expanding holiday displays each
plishments. modern country that a man is being pros- year so visitors knew they are welcome at this
f ecuted for trying to gain positive media cov- place. It meant working with his wife, Diane,
RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF erage.’’ and Gayle Zollmann-Kiel, Coordinator of Cam-
NYPD DETECTIVE JOSEPH GUIDICE As we watch this farce play out, we should pus Grounds, to create community gardens for
also remember that a criminal trial of a sitting people to enjoy all summer and fall, thereby
head of state is a situation that could only take
HON. LEE M. ZELDIN place in the Middle East’s sole democracy. At
feeding the community both spiritually and
OF NEW YORK figuratively. And it meant, during the current
the same time, the partisan nature of the pandemic, having the bell tower on campus
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
charges and the trial cheapen the value of play music to lift the spirits of all those around.
Thursday, May 28, 2020 Israel’s democratic and legalistic spirt. Knesset No wonder the Seminary received several
Mr. ZELDIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today Speaker Yariv Levin commented that ‘‘the day civic awards—including being named among
to honor Detective Joseph Guidice and his of the opening of Prime Minister Benjamin the 100 Top Workplaces St. Louis in 2015.
culmination of 25 years of distinguished serv- Netanyahu’s trial will be remembered as one Dr. Meyer’s retirement marks a season of
ice in the New York City Police Department. of the low points of the Israeli legal system.’’ change for the Seminary. However, it also
Detective Guidice went above and beyond as Levin went on to say, ‘‘The charges against marks the closing of a chapter of a long ca-
a detective, officer, and teacher to assist and the prime minister are unprecedented in West- reer of service for him personally. While Dr.
advance our law enforcement’s aptitude and ern democracies. Their realm, if at all, should Meyer’s first job was helping his parents, Ar-
ability in investigating auto crime. have been the ethical and noncriminal sphere, thur and Norma Meyer, deliver milk for the
In 1995, Detective Guidice started his ca- and it’s no wonder why the world’s top jurists Dixie Dairy on the south side of Chicago, he
reer as a patrol officer in the NYPD’s 109th have been harshly criticizing it.’’ was called to serve on a full and winding pro-
and 30th Precincts. After five years of service, Indeed, the sham trial against Netanyahu fessional path. This path was so full of wonder
his exceptional skill and drive propelled him to comes at especially ironic times as the Prime that he would often marvel at the ‘‘milk man
the rank of investigator in the Auto Crime Divi- Minister won the highest number of votes of moments’’ that unfolded—remarking, ‘‘What I
sion and, eventually, detective in 2002. any party since the establishment of the Israel am doing here—God has blessed me so.’’
While continuing to serve as a citywide in- state. This mandate from the Israeli electorate Dr. Meyer completed his bachelor’s degree
vestigator in conjunction with local, state and was a personal expression of confidence in in 1969 at Concordia Senior College in Fort
federal agencies, in 2005, Detective Guidice the Prime Minister as well as a clear sign that Wayne, Indiana. After earning a Master of Di-
began teaching the NYPD’s four-day intensive the Israeli public has lost all trust in a judicial vinity from Concordia Seminary in 1973, he
SSpencer on DSK126QN23PROD with REMARKS
Fundamentals of Auto Theft Investigation system rigged along party lines to force the earned a Master’s degree a year later, and a
course. Over his 15 years of instruction, he hand of a popular leader and push him out of doctorate in 1986 in classical languages from
has trained upwards of 17,000 special inves- the political system. Washington University in St. Louis. He also is
tigation unit professionals from across the Knesset Speaker Levin concluded his com- the recipient of an honorary Doctor of Divinity
globe, inspiring the next generation of law en- ments on the matter by saying, ‘‘I, like millions in 1993 from Concordia Theological Seminary
forcement. of Israeli citizens, stand with the prime min- in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
For his professional excellence and accom- ister today. With the truth. With justice.’’ May Dr. Meyer first joined the faculty at
plishment, Detective Guidice has been praised the truth come to light and may justice prevail. Concordia Seminary as a guest instructor in
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E501
1979, going on to serve as head pastor of St. LIVESTOCK PRODUCER ASSIST- me in supporting this bill. We must stand with
Salvator Lutheran Church in Venedy, Illinois, ANCE FOR COVID–19 DAMAGES our family farmers, and in so doing defend the
St. Peter Lutheran Church in New Memphis, ACT interests of our economy, rural communities
Illinois, and at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in and America’s food supply.
Collinsville, Illinois. These church communities HON. JIM HAGEDORN f
are so beloved by the Meyers that they con- OF MINNESOTA
RECOGNIZING ANTHONY D.
tinue to worship at all three parishes to this IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES GIAMPETRO
day. Thursday, May 28, 2020
It was also at Holy Cross Lutheran that I, Mr. HAGEDORN. Madam Speaker, I rise HON. TIM RYAN
and my wife Karen, came to know Dr. Meyer today because America’s livestock industry is OF OHIO
and his family. Our lives have been inter- in crisis. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
twined, to say the least: Diane sold us our first Across southern Minnesota and in many Thursday, May 28, 2020
home; I taught the oldest of two daughters, areas of our nation, pork producers are espe- Mr. RYAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to
Elizabeth, civics at Metro East Lutheran High cially in trouble. Packing plant closures and recognize Anthony D. Giampetro, who will cel-
School and ran the first of many 5k races to disruptions and other reverberations associ- ebrate his 100th birthday on June 9, 2020.
come with his youngest daughter, Katie; my ated with COVID–19 and the pause in our Mr. Giampetro served proudly with the U.S.
own children played music in their daughter’s economy have depressed futures markets and Army Air Force for three and a half years dur-
wedding; my wife Karen served as the head made it impossible to process hogs. Many of ing World War II. He was a Ground Crew Me-
our producers are being forced to destroy ani- chanic, working on single engine fighter air-
organist at Holy Cross with Dale; and so on.
mals and not even use the meat for our food craft. At various times, he was based in Eng-
Dr. Meyer moved on from Holy Cross in supply. land, Tunisia, Algeria, Sicily, and mainland
1989 after being selected to serve as Speaker To mitigate production losses incurred by Italy.
on The Lutheran Hour radio program at Lu- our pork producers, this week I introduced the After his military service, Tony became a
theran Hour Ministries. The Lutheran Hour is ‘‘Livestock Producer Assistance for COVID–19 principal in the accounting firm of Reali,
the world’s oldest continually broadcast Gos- Damages Act.’’ My legislation is designed to Giampetro, and Scott. He has long since re-
pel radio program, first airing in 1930. Dr. augment the United States Department of Ag- tired, but to this day, he still performs account-
Meyer also hosted the national television show riculture’s existing Emergency Assistance for ing and tax service for some of his long-term
On Main Street for Lutheran Hour Ministries. Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm Raised Cat- clients. He is also retired from volunteering
In 2001, On Main Street episodes received fish program to cover income losses for farm- with Trumbull County Mobile Meals.
two prestigious Emmy awards from the Na- ers and producers who have been unable to Tony was married to his beloved wife Rose-
tional Academy of Television Arts & Sciences market livestock due to packing plant closures mary, from November 28, 1946, until her
St. Louis/Mid-America Chapter. During this or reduced operations beginning on April 19, death on October 18, 1994. They have one
2020. daughter, Annette, who is married to Robert
time, he took part in some of his favorite ‘‘milk
Due to the ongoing pandemic, our livestock Meek. Tony has two grandsons and two great
man moments,’’ including opening both the
farmers in southern Minnesota and throughout grandchildren.
U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Rep- Tony lives in Youngstown but has been an
the nation have been pushed to the brink of
resentatives in prayer. insolvency. This represents a direct threat to active member of the Rotary Club of Girard-
In addition to his published writings, Dr. our nation’s food supply and the vibrancy of Liberty for 37 years. It is my honor to wish Mr.
Meyer served in numerous leadership capac- the economy and our rural communities. Giampetro the happiest of birthdays and thank
ities—such as third vice-president of the Lu- During this pause in our economy, res- him for his dedicated service to our country
theran Church—Missouri Synod; a charter taurants have been largely shut down, which and community.
board member of the Association of Lutheran has caused reduced demand and dramatically f
Older Adults; an Honorary Director of God’s lower futures markets for pork, beef and other
RECOGNIZING NAILING IT FOR
Word to the Nations Bible Society; and as a cuts of meat. On top of that, we have had
AMERICA IN HONOR OF ASIAN
Board of Trustee of the American Bible Soci- packing plant disruptions and closures that
PACIFIC AMERICAN HERITAGE
ety. have created an environment where market
MONTH
ready hogs cannot even be processed and
Dr. Meyer finally returned home to distributed into the food chain.
Concordia Seminary in St. Louis in 2001, serv- Because the pork industry uses an in-time HON. J. LUIS CORREA
ing as the Gregg H. Benidt Memorial Chair in OF CALIFORNIA
delivery system, hogs cannot be stored or
Homiletics and Literature. He became interim pastured like other traditional crops and ani- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
president in 2004, and the 10th president of mals. Until meat packing plants return fully on- Thursday, May 28, 2020
the institution in 2005. For the next fifteen line, many pork producers are left with no Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise today
years, he could be seen working on the cam- place to market their hogs, leaving euthanasia, in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage
pus grounds, attending Bach at the Sem, and rendering or composting as some of the only Month to recognize Nailing It For America and
strolling with Ferdie, the oversized-in-body- options for handling potentially millions of pigs. their mission, ‘‘Operation: Nailing It for Health
and-heart golden retriever that became a The outlook is especially challenging for Care Workers,’’ to support the shortage of per-
quasi-mascot on campus and, sadly, recently independent farmers who own and raise their sonal protective equipment (PPE) by coordi-
passed away. own livestock. In the past few months, hog nating and distributing to frontline workers.
prices plunged 26 percent, further The Nailing It Team has donated hundreds of
Dr. Meyer likes to tell students that: ‘‘It is compounding challenges for livestock pro- thousands of PPE to various hospitals and
great time to be the church.’’ As the world suf- ducers to develop additional options for selling healthcare clinics from the beginning of Cali-
fers greatly from the pandemic, we are grate- their hogs. fornia’s stay at home order.
ful for his efforts to raise public servants to In Minnesota, our farmers make huge con- Through collaborative efforts, the Nailing It
serve all who are hurting, and to share the tributions to the state’s economy. According to team, consisting of leaders from Advance
Gospel loud and clear for all to hear. a study by the University of Minnesota, current Beauty College, Whale Spa, Studio 18 Nail
As Dr. Meyer begins this beautiful journey of disruptions in the pork supply chain, coupled Bar, with other nail salon owners and others,
retirement, he will enjoy more time with his with the current 15 percent unemployment rallied the community to donate their PPE sup-
two grown daughters, Elizabeth (Lizzie) Pitt- rate, could result in an estimated loss of $660 plies. In the first ten days of combining their
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man and Katie (Catharine) Bailey, their million in economic activity in our state. efforts, their team collected 120,000 face
The researchers also concluded that a 15 masks and more than 300,000 gloves that
spouses, Darren and Charles, and the five
percent drop in hog production would lead to were delivered to healthcare workers in 40
grandsons that he refers to as Cinco de
an estimated loss of 2,100 jobs. hospitals and medical clinics. Additionally, the
Meyer: Christian, Connor and Nicholas Pitt- Nailing It team’s efforts has encouraged more
Because pork and livestock producers are
man, and Andrew and Jacob Bailey. suffering huge losses, financial and otherwise, than 15 restaurant owners to join their initia-
Madam Speaker, I want to personally thank and through no fault of their own, I urge my tive to deliver freshly prepared, packaged
Dr. Meyer and his wife Diane for their ministry. colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join meals to healthcare workers.
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E502 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 28, 2020
Orange County is home to a vibrant Viet- and progress assembled between 1918 and cery store clerks and delivery workers, as well
namese community, which I am proud to rep- 1920. as many other federal, state, local and tribal
resent. An estimated eighty percent of nail Since then, our nations have worked strong- employees who have been deemed essential
salon businesses in California are owned by ly together to promote energy security, in- workers.
Vietnamese proprietors, who had to close their crease bilateral trade and investment, and These workers are risking their health and
doors due to the pandemic. Many owners and counter terrorism and transnational threats. It safety to continue to provide essential services
manicurists face day-to-day struggles as they has been my great honor to aid in the mainte- to their communities and our families.
try to keep their businesses afloat while pro- nance of strong ties between our nations, and As recently as April 2020, the Center for
viding for their families. I look forward to furthering our cooperation to Disease Control reported that over 9,200
Despite facing financial hardships and day- continue to bring peace, security, and stability health care professionals have been diag-
to-day challenges of this pandemic, the Nailing to the region. nosed with COVID–19 and 27 have died from
It team has embodied the spirit of kindness Madam Speaker, I congratulate the Repub- the virus.
and compassion through these-times. I en- lic of Azerbaijan and its people for its proud Research shows that essential workers
courage my colleagues to join me in recog- history in the pursuit of freedom and its com- often work in low-wage positions that require
nizing the Nailing It for America team in honor mitment to developing solutions to modern risky face-to-face interactions without ade-
of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. problems. I urge my colleagues to join me in quate protection; they are disproportionately
f honoring this day and wish another century of African American or Hispanic.
strength and prosperity on Azerbaijan. They are most at risk of illness during the
ZACHARY MCMILLAN f COVID–19 pandemic, but in many cases,
least able to afford the financial setback that
PANDEMIC HEROES
HON. ED PERLMUTTER COMPENSATION ACT
can result from any interruption in work.
OF COLORADO When a loved one becomes ill on the job,
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the cost of healthcare and lost wages can cre-
HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE ate additional burden on families.
Thursday, May 28, 2020 OF TEXAS Madam Speaker, we have a moral and pa-
Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES triotic obligation to stand behind them and
today to recognize and applaud Zachary Mc- Thursday, May 28, 2020 their families by ensuring their financial sta-
Millan for receiving the Adams County Mayors Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, as a bility.
and Commissioners Youth Award. senior member of the Committees on the Judi- Now, more than ever, our essential workers
Zachary McMillan is a 12th grader at need help and I urge all Members to join me
ciary and on Homeland Security, and founder
Bollman Technical Education Center/Legacy in voting to pass the Pandemic Heroes Com-
and Co-Chair of the Congressional
High School and received this award because pensation Act.
Coronavirus Taskforce, I rise in strong support
his determination and hard work have allowed f
of the Pandemic Heroes Compensation Act, a
him to overcome adversities.
bill that would create a compensation fund for RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT
The dedication demonstrated by Zachary
all essential workers and personnel who have OF GWEN KANIA, PRESIDENT OF
McMillan is exemplary of the type of achieve-
been injured or impacted by COVID–19. THE TIOGA COUNTY CHAMBER
ment that can be attained with hard work and Modeled after the September 11th Victim
perseverance. It is essential students at all OF COMMERCE
Compensation Fund, the fund would provide
levels strive to make the most of their edu- compensation for injuries to any individual, or
cation and develop a work ethic which will the families, across all essential industries HON. TOM REED
guide them for the rest of their lives. who were deemed an essential worker and re- OF NEW YORK
I extend my deepest congratulations to quired to leave their homes to perform their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Zachary McMillan for winning the Adams services and became ill or died as a result of Thursday, May 28, 2020
County Mayors and Commissioners Youth COVID–19.
Award. I have no doubt he will exhibit the Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, today I rise to
Every day we learn more about the unprec-
same dedication and character in all of his fu- recognize the retirement of Gwen Kania,
edented impact that the COVID–19 virus has
ture accomplishments. President of the Tioga County Chamber of
had on American lives across the nation.
f To date, there are more than 1,676,401 Commerce.
confirmed cases, over 98,000 dead, including Gwen came to the Chamber in May of 2008
RECOGNIZING THE 102ND ANNIVER- as the Director of Operations and in January
SARY OF THE REPUBLIC DAY OF 54,509 cases and 1,506 deaths in my home
state of Texas, and 10,921 cases and 221 of 2014, she became the President and CEO
AZERBAIJAN of the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce.
deaths in Harris County.
On top of that, by taking the necessary During her time with the Chamber, Gwen put
HON. PAUL A. GOSAR measures to slow the pandemic and ‘flatten into action a Computer Management System
OF ARIZONA the curve’ so as not to overwhelm the nation’s that streamlined processes. She also orga-
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES health care system, economic activity in the nized Career Day and the Tioga County Job
United States has experienced a severe shock Fair. For three years, she administered the On
Thursday, May 28, 2020 The Job Training Grant from the New York
to the system.
Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today More than 40 million initial unemployment State Department of Labor.
to commemorate the 102nd anniversary of claims in the past month alone. Gwen was also in the public eye, facilitating
Azerbaijan’s Republic Day. On this day in In addition, on March 23, 2020, the Dow the Chamber’s traditional events and ribbon
1918, Azerbaijan emerged from autocracy to Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) dipped to cuttings, providing service to the community.
establish a Parliamentarian Republic. Today, it 18,321.62, which is even lower than it was on One highlight Gwen enjoyed most in recent
shines as an example of freedom in a region Election Night 2016, and far below the 19,827 times was the Chamber’s Centennial Celebra-
of the world historically plagued in the dark- mark where it stood on January 20, 2017. tion and Gala in 2019. For several years,
ness of repression and inequality. In other words, Madam Speaker, all the Gwen was also the Leadership Tioga Program
Republic Day honors the declaration of gains that were made to the stock market and Manager and Facilitator.
independence from the Russian Empire. While heralded by this Administration as evidence of The Tioga County Chamber of Commerce
the rise of the Soviet Union would undermine its genius have been wiped out, depleting the will greatly miss Gwen and her efforts there
its sovereignty once again within two years, retirement savings and 401(k) funds of millions have not gone unnoticed. However, her retire-
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the achievements in state building Azerbaijan of ordinary Americans. ment is well deserved. I thank Gwen for all
made in those two years are a testament to We will overcome this crisis and become she has done during her time at the Chamber.
the abilities of a free Azeri people. better and stronger for it. Given the above, I ask that this Legislative
In 1991, Azerbaijan emerged once again, But we must never forget who waged the Body pause in its deliberations and join me to
seizing the opportunity presented to them, de- battle to contain the pandemic, risking their congratulate Gwen on her retirement and her
claring its right to govern itself and live free. lives and livelihoods on the frontline. twelve years of invaluable service to the Tioga
This symbolic emergence ensured the world Courageous first responders, transit work- County Chamber of Commerce and dedication
that this was a continuation on the freedom ers, brave healthcare workers, fearless gro- to improving the Tioga County community.
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E503
RECOGNIZING ASIAN AMERICAN The Orange County service center office of izen community beyond the prevalent public
SENIOR CITIZENS SERVICES CEN- AASCSC was established in 1991. Their mis- health threat, such as difficulties in obtaining
TER (AASCSC) IN HONOR OF sion is to dedicate their time to raising aware- basic needs like toilet paper and food, reduc-
ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN HER- ness of the needs of the Asian American el- tion of income or ability to run their busi-
ITAGE MONTH ders, providing assistance by accessing es- nesses, and an increase in xenophobia to-
sential health care and social services, and wards the Asian American community.
HON. J. LUIS CORREA promoting a dignified living in the community. Despite these hardships, AASCSC con-
OF CALIFORNIA AASCSC is a leader in service and advo- tinues to provide exceptional service and care
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
cacy for the elderly who are determined to to their communities by continuing the work to-
provide thorough direct services, policy advo- wards the 2020 Census, coordinating pack-
Thursday, May 28, 2020 cacy, and capacity building for the Asian Pa- aging and distribution of food and basic ne-
Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise today cific American community. For over 30 years, cessities to thousands of vulnerable seniors,
in honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage AASCSC has been an essential resource to and collaborating and supporting other non-
Month to recognize Asian American Senior ensure the most vulnerable, low-income sen- profit organizations with the mission to provide
Citizens Services Center (AASCSC) and their iors receive access and equity to quality social resources to vulnerable families during the
invaluable contribution to the community they and health programs and services. With their COVID–19 pandemic.
serve. bilingual staff and volunteers, AASCSC works I ask my colleagues to join me in recog-
The Asian American Senior Citizens Service to serve and empower their diverse aging nizing the dedicated service of the Asian
Center (AASCSC) is a non-profit organization community. American Senior Citizens Services Center in
founded in 1989 that follows the philosophy of These challenging times have impacted honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage
‘‘caring for elders as if they were our own.’’ AASCSC’s vulnerable and high-risk senior cit- Month.
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Thursday, May 28, 2020
Daily Digest
Senate
Chamber Action Committee Meetings
The Senate met at 11:00:08 a.m. in pro forma ses- No committee meetings were held.
sion, and adjourned at 11:00:43 a.m. until 3 p.m.,
on Monday, June 1, 2020.
h
House of Representatives
Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of
Chamber Action 2020: H.R. 7010, amended, to amend the Small
Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 22 pub- Business Act and the CARES Act to modify certain
lic bills, H.R. 7042–7063; and 6 resolutions, H. provisions related to the forgiveness of loans under
Res. 982–987, were introduced. Pages H2358–59 the paycheck protection program, to allow recipients
Additional Cosponsors: Pages H2359–60 of loan forgiveness under the paycheck protection
program to defer payroll taxes, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay
Reports Filed: There were no reports filed today. vote of 417 yeas to 1 nay, Roll No. 114.
Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she Pages H2332–38, H2339–40
appointed Representative Carson (IN) to act as Suspensions: The House failed to agree to suspend
Speaker pro tempore for today. Page H2325
the rules and pass the following measure:
Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules Small Business Transparency and Reporting for
and pass the following measures: the Underbanked and Taxpayers at Home Act:
Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjust- H.R. 6782, amended, to require the Administrator
ment Act of 2020: H.R. 6168, to increase, effective of the Small Business Administration to submit a re-
as of December 1, 2020, the rates of compensation port on recipients of assistance under the paycheck
for veterans with service-connected disabilities and protection program and the economic injury disaster
the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation loan program, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 269 yeas
for the survivors of certain disabled veterans; to 147 nays, Roll No. 113. Pages H2330–32, H2338–39
Pages H2327–28 Moment of Silence: The House observed a moment
Major Medical Facility Authorization Act of of silence in remembrance of the over 100,000
2020: S. 3414, to authorize major medical facility Americans who have passed away from the
projects for the Department of Veterans Affairs for COVID–19 virus. Page H2340
fiscal year 2020; Pages H2328–29 USA FREEDOM Reauthorization Act of 2020:
Amending title 38, United States Code, to mod- The House agreed to the Nadler motion to disagree
ify the limitation on pay for certain high-level em- to the Senate amendments and request a conference
ployees and officers of the Department of Veterans with the Senate on H.R. 6172, to require the Ad-
Affairs: S. 3084, amended, to amend title 38, ministrator of the Small Business Administration to
United States Code, to modify the limitation on pay submit a report on recipients of assistance under the
paycheck protection program and the economic in-
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for certain high-level employees and officers of the
Department of Veterans Affairs; and Pages H2329–30 jury disaster loan program, by a yea-and-nay vote of
284 yeas to 122 nays, Roll No. 115. Pages H2340–46
D448
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May 28, 2020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D449
The Chair appointed the following conferees: Rep- EXAMINING THE FEDERAL
resentatives Nadler, Schiff, Lofgren, Jordan, and GOVERNMENT’S ACTIONS TO PROTECT
Nunes. Page H2346 WORKERS FROM COVID–19
Moment of Silence: The House observed a moment Committee on Education and Labor: Subcommittee on
of silence in memory of the Honorable Sam Johnson Workforce Protections held a hearing entitled ‘‘Ex-
of Texas. Page H2346 amining the Federal Government’s Actions to Pro-
tect Workers from COVID–19’’. Testimony was
Quorum Calls—Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes de- heard from Loren Sweatt, Principal Deputy Assistant
veloped during the proceedings of today and appear Secretary, Occupational Safety and Health Adminis-
on pages H2338–39, H2339–40, and H2345–46. tration, Department of Labor; and John Howard,
There were no quorum calls. M.D., Director, National Institute for Occupational
Adjournment: The House met at 9 a.m. and ad- Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and
journed at 4:37 p.m. Prevention, Department of Health and Human Serv-
ices.
Committee Meetings Joint Meetings
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS— No joint committee meetings were held.
RESPONSE TO COVID–19 f
Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Mili- COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR FRIDAY,
tary Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related MAY 29, 2020
Agencies held a hearing entitled ‘‘Department of (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated)
Veterans Affairs—Response to COVID–19’’. Testi-
mony was heard from the following Department of Senate
Veterans Affairs officials: Paul Lawrence, Under Sec- No meetings/hearings scheduled.
retary for Benefits; Jennifer MacDonald, Chief Con-
sultant to the Deputy Under Secretary for Health; House
Jon Rychalski, Assistant Secretary for Management Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Sub-
and Chief Financial Officer; and Robert Wilkie, Sec- committee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation,
retary. hearing entitled ‘‘The Status of the U.S. Maritime Supply
Chain During the COVID–19 Pandemic’’, 1 p.m.,
Webex.
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D450 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 28, 2020
Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
3 p.m., Monday, June 1 9 a.m., Monday, June 1
Senate Chamber House Chamber
Program for Monday: Senate will resume consideration Program for Monday: House will meet in Pro Forma
of the nomination of Drew B. Tipton, to be United States session at 9 a.m.
District Judge for the Southern District of Texas.
At 5:30 p.m., Senate will resume consideration of the
nomination of John Leonard Badalamenti, to be United
States District Judge for the Middle District of Florida,
post-cloture, and vote on confirmation of the nomination.
Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue
HOUSE Hagedorn, Jim, Minn., E501 Perlmutter, Ed, Colo., E500, E502
Hern, Kevin, Okla., E499 Reed, Tom, N.Y., E502
Chabot, Steve, Ohio, E495 Jackson Lee, Sheila, Tex., E502 Ruiz, Raul, Calif., E499
Correa, J. Luis, Calif., E501, E503 Johnson, Dusty, S. Dak., E499 Ryan, Tim, Ohio, E501
Courtney, Joe, Conn., E498 Johnson, Eddie Bernice, Tex., E496 Schakowsky, Janice D., Ill., E496
Cox, TJ, Calif., E495 Joyce, John, Pa., E497 Shimkus, John, Ill., E500
Flores, Bill, Tex., E498 Kaptur, Marcy, Ohio, E496 Smith, Adam, Wash., E498
González-Colón, Jenniffer, Puerto Rico, E495 Lewis, John, Ga., E495 Wilson, Joe, S.C., E496, E497, E498, E500
Gosar, Paul, Ariz., E502 Meng, Grace, N.Y., E497 Zeldin, Lee M., N.Y., E500
Congressional Record
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