State of the Union Presidential Message, March 1, 2022 — Congressional Record, Senate
Summary
Congressional Record, Senate, pages S891 and S892, March 1, 2022. The Presiding Officer lays before the Senate a message from the President of the United States, a report on the State of the Union delivered to a joint session of Congress on March 1, 2022 (PM 21). In the message, the President says the United States has worked with 30 other countries to release 60 million barrels of oil from reserves and that the economy created over 6.5 million new jobs last year. Kaine also lists requests for the Committees on Armed Services, Finance, Energy and Natural Resources, Foreign Relations, the Judiciary and Veterans' Affairs to meet during the session of the Senate on March 1, 2022.
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“State of the Union Presidential Message, March 1, 2022 — Congressional Record, Senate.”
Original at www.govinfo.gov. Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/crec-crec-2022-03-01-crec-2022-03-01-pt1-pgs891-2-841f5fe1b8/
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March 1, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S891
and enhance the services of the United again. Tonight we meet as—Demo- Japan—Korea—Australia—New Zea-
States Postal Service, and for other crats—Republicans—and Independents. land, and many others—EVEN Switzer-
purposes; as follows: But most importantly—as Americans. land—we are inflicting pain on Russia
On page 61, line 18, strike ‘‘240 days’’ and With a duty to one another—to the and supporting the people of Ukraine.
insert ‘‘eight months’’. American people, to the Constitution. Putin is now isolated from the world
f And with an unwavering resolve— more than ever.
that freedom will always triumph over Together with our allies—we are
AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO tyranny. RIGHT NOW—enforcing powerful eco-
MEET Six days ago—Russia’s Vladimir nomic sanctions. We are—cutting off
Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I have 6 Putin sought to shake the foundations Russia’s largest banks from the inter-
requests for committees to meet during of the free world—thinking he could national financial system. Preventing
today’s session of the Senate. They make it bend to his menacing ways. Russia’s central bank from defending
have the approval of the Majority and But he badly miscalculated. He the Russian Ruble—making Putin’s
Minority Leaders. thought he could roll into Ukraine— $630 billion ‘‘war fund’’—worthless. We
Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph and the world would roll over. are choking off Russia’s access to tech-
5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- Instead—he met a wall of strength he nology that will sap its economic
ate, the following committees are au- never imagined. He met the Ukrainian strength and weaken its military for
thorized to meet during today’s session people. From President Zelenskyy to years to come.
of the Senate: every Ukrainian—their fearlessness— Tonight—I say to the Russian
COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES their courage—their determination— oligarchs and corrupt leaders—who
The Committee on Armed Services is inspires the world. Groups of citizens have bilked billions of dollars off this
authorized to meet during the session blocking tanks with their bodies. Ev- violent regime—NO MORE.
of the Senate on Tuesday, March 1, eryone from students to retirees— The U.S. Department of Justice is as-
2022, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct a hearing. teachers turned soldiers—defending sembling a dedicated task force to go
their homeland. after the crimes of Russian oligarchs.
COMMITTEE ON FINANCE
In this struggle—as President We are joining with our European al-
The Committee on Finance is author- Zelenskyy said in his speech to the Eu- lies to—find and seize—your yachts—
ized to meet during the session of the ropean Parliament—‘‘light will win your luxury apartments—your private
Senate on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 10 over darkness.’’ jets. We are coming for your ill-begot-
a.m., to conduct a hearing on nomina- The Ukrainian Ambassador to the ten gains.
tions. United States is here tonight. Let each And tonight—I am announcing that
COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL of us here tonight—in this Chamber— we will join our allies in closing off
RESOURCES
send an unmistakable signal to American air space to ALL Russian
The Committee on Energy and Nat- Ukraine and to the world. flights—further isolating Russia—and
ural Resources is authorized to meet Please rise if you are able—and show adding an additional squeeze—on their
during the session of the Senate on that—YES—WE the United States of economy.
Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 10 a.m., to America—stand with the Ukrainian The Ruble has lost 30 percent of its
conduct a hearing. people. value. The Russian stock market has
COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS Throughout our history—we’ve lost 40 percent of its value and trading
The Committee on Foreign Relations learned this lesson—when dictators do remains suspended.
is authorized to meet during the ses- not pay a price for their aggression— Russia’s economy is reeling—and
sion of the Senate on Tuesday, March they cause more chaos. They keep Putin alone is to blame.
1, 2022, at 10 a.m., to conduct a classi- moving. And the costs and the Together with our allies—we are pro-
fied briefing. threats—to America and the world— viding support to the Ukrainians in
COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY keep rising. their fight for freedom. Military assist-
The Committee on the Judiciary is That’s why the NATO Alliance was ance. Economic assistance. Humani-
authorized to meet during the session created—to secure peace and stability tarian assistance. We are giving more
of the Senate on Tuesday, March 1, in Europe after World War II. The than $1 billion in direct assistance to
2022, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing. United States is a member—along with Ukraine.
29 other nations. It matters. American And we will continue to aid the
COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
diplomacy matters. American resolve Ukrainian people—as they defend their
The Committee on Veterans’ Affairs matters. country and to help ease their suf-
is authorized to meet during the ses- Putin’s latest attack on Ukraine was fering.
sion of the Senate on Tuesday, March premeditated and unprovoked. He re- Let me be clear—our forces ARE NOT
1, 2022, at 10 a.m., to conduct a joint jected repeated efforts at diplomacy. engaged and WILL NOT engage—in
hearing. He thought the West—and NATO— conflict with Russian forces in
f wouldn’t respond. And he thought he Ukraine.
PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE could divide us at home. Putin was Our forces are NOT going to Europe
WRONG. We were ready. Here is what to fight in Ukraine—but to DEFEND
--- we did. our NATO Allies—in the event that
REPORT ON THE STATE OF THE We prepared—extensively and care- Putin decides to keep moving west.
UNION DELIVERED TO A JOINT fully. We spent months building a coa- For that purpose—we’ve mobilized
SESSION OF CONGRESS ON lition of other freedom-loving nations American—ground forces—air squad-
MARCH 1, 2022—PM 21 from—Europe and the Americas—to rons—and ship deployments to protect
Asia and Africa—to confront Putin. NATO countries—including—Poland—
The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be-
I spent countless hours—unifying our Romania—Latvia—Lithuania—and Es-
fore the Senate the following message
European allies. We shared with the tonia.
from the President of the United
world—in advance—what we knew As I have made crystal clear—the
States which was ordered to lie on the
Putin was planning—and precisely how United States and our Allies will de-
table:
he would try to falsely justify his ag- fend every inch of territory of NATO
To the Congress of the United States: gression. We countered Russia’s lies countries—with the full force of our
Madam Speaker. Madam Vice Presi- with truth. collective power.
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dent. Our First Lady and Second Gen- And now that he has acted—the free And we remain clear-eyed. The
tleman. Members of Congress and the world is holding him accountable. Ukrainians are fighting back—with
Cabinet. Justices of the Supreme Along with—27 members of the Euro- pure courage. But the next few—days—
Court. My fellow Americans. pean Union—including France, Ger- weeks—months—will be hard on them.
Last year—COVID–19 kept us apart. many, Italy—as well as countries Putin has unleashed violence and
This year—we are finally together like—the United Kingdom—Canada— chaos. But while he may make gains on
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S892 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 1, 2022
the battlefield—he will pay a con- I grew up in a family—where if the airports, ports, and waterways—all
tinuing high price over the long run. price of food went up—you felt it. across America.
And a proud Ukrainian people—who That’s why one of the first things I did And we’ll do it all to withstand the
have known 30 years of independence— as President was fight to pass the devastating effects of the climate cri-
have repeatedly shown—that they will American Rescue Plan. Because people sis—and promote environmental jus-
not tolerate anyone who tries to take were hurting—we needed to act—and tice. We’ll build—a national network of
their country backwards. we did. Few pieces of legislation have 500,000 electric vehicle charging sta-
To all Americans—I will be honest done more—in a critical moment in our tions. Begin to replace—poisonous lead
with you—as I’ve always promised. history—to lift us out of crisis. It pipes—so every child—and every Amer-
A Russian dictator invading a foreign fueled our efforts to—vaccinate the Na- ican—has clean water to drink at home
country has costs around the world. tion and combat COVID–19. It delivered and school. Provide affordable high-
And I’m taking robust action to immediate economic relief—for tens of speed internet for every American—
make sure the pain of our sanctions is millions of Americans. Helped put food urban, suburban, rural, and tribal com-
targeted at Russia’s economy. on their tables—keep a roof over their munities. 4,000 projects have already
And I will use every tool at our dis- heads—and cut the cost of health in- been announced.
posal to protect American businesses surance. And tonight—I’m announcing that
and consumers. And as my Dad used to say—it gave this year—we will start fixing over
Tonight—I can announce that—the people a little breathing room. 65,000 miles of highway and 1,500
United States has worked with 30 other And unlike the $2 trillion tax cut bridges in disrepair.
countries—to release 60 million barrels passed in the previous administration When we use taxpayer dollars to re-
of oil—from reserves around the world. that benefitted the top 1 percent of build America—we are going to Buy
America will lead that effort—releas- Americans—the American Rescue Plan American. Buy American products—to
ing 30 million barrels from our own helped working people—and left no one support American jobs. The Federal
Strategic Petroleum Reserve. behind. And it worked. It created jobs. Government spends about $600 billion a
And we stand ready—to do more if Lots of jobs. year to keep the country safe and se-
necessary—Unified with our allies. In fact—our economy created over 6.5 cure. There’s been a law on the books
These steps will help blunt gas prices million new jobs just last year. More for almost a century—to make sure
here at home. jobs created in 1 year than ever before. taxpayers’ dollars support American
And I know the news about what’s Our economy grew at a rate of 5.7 jobs and businesses.
happening can seem alarming. Every administration says they’ll do
percent last year—the strongest
But I want you to know that—we’re it. But we’re actually doing it. We will
growth in nearly 40 years.
going to be okay. buy American to make sure everything
The first step in bringing funda-
When the history of this era is writ- from the deck of an aircraft carrier—to
mental change to an economy that
ten—Putin’s war on Ukraine will have the steel on highway guardrails—are
hasn’t worked for the working people
left Russia weaker and the rest of the made in America.
of this Nation for too long.
world stronger. But to compete for the best jobs of
For the past 40 years—we were told
While it shouldn’t have taken some- the future—we also need to level the
that if we gave tax breaks to those at
thing so terrible for people around the playing field with China and other
the very top—the benefits would trick-
world to see what’s at stake—now ev- competitors.
le down to everyone else. That’s why—it is so important to
eryone sees it clearly.
We see the unity among leaders of But that trickle-down theory led to—
pass the Bipartisan Innovation Act sit-
nations—and a more unified Europe—a weaker economic growth—lower
ting in Congress—that will make
more unified West. wages—bigger deficits and the widest
record investments in emerging tech-
And we see unity among the people— gap between those at the top and ev-
nologies—and American manufac-
who are gathering in cities in large eryone else—in nearly a century.
turing.
crowds around the world—even in Rus- Vice President HARRIS and I ran for Let me give you one example of
sia—to demonstrate their support for office—with a new economic vision for why—it’s so important to pass it. If
Ukraine. America. Invest in America. Educate you travel 20 miles east of Columbus,
In the battle between democracy and Americans. Grow the workforce. Build Ohio—you’ll find 1,000 empty acres of
autocracy—democracies are rising to the economy from the bottom up—and land. It won’t look like much. But if
the moment—and the world is clearly the middle out—not from the top down. you stop—and looked closely—you’ll
choosing the side—of peace and secu- Because we know that when the middle see a ‘‘field of dreams’’. The ground on
rity. class grows—the poor have a ladder which America’s future will be built.
This is a real test. It’s going to take up—and the wealthy do very well. This is where Intel—the American
time. America used to have the best— company that helped build Silicon Val-
So—let us continue to draw inspira- roads—bridges—and airports on Earth. ley—is going to build its $20 billion
tion from the iron will of the Ukrain- Now our infrastructure is ranked 13th semiconductor ‘‘mega site’’. Up to
ian people. in the world. We won’t be able to com- eight state-of-the-art factories in one
To our fellow Ukrainian Americans— pete for the jobs of the 21st Century— place. 10,000 new good-paying jobs.
who forge a deep bond that connects if we don’t fix that. Some of the most sophisticated manu-
our two nations—we stand with you. That’s why it was so important to facturing in the world—to make com-
Putin may circle Kyiv with tanks— pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure puter chips the size of a fingertip—that
but he will never gain the hearts and Law—the most sweeping investment to power the world and our everyday
souls of the Ukrainian people. He will rebuild America in history. This was a lives. Smartphones. The Internet.
never extinguish their love of freedom. bipartisan effort—and I want to thank Technology we have yet to invent.
He will never weaken the resolve of the the members of both parties who But—that’s just the beginning.
free world. worked to make it happen. Intel’s CEO—Pat Gelsinger—who is
We meet tonight—in an America that We’re done talking about infrastruc- here tonight—told me they are ready
has lived through two of the hardest ture weeks. We’re going to have an in- to increase their investment from $20
years this Nation has ever faced. frastructure decade. It is going to billion to $100 billion. That would be
The pandemic has been punishing. transform America. And put us on a one of the biggest investments in man-
And so many families are living pay- path to win—the economic competition ufacturing in American history.
check to paycheck. of the 21st Century that we face with And all they’re waiting for—is for
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with SENATE
Struggling to keep up with the rising the rest of the world—particularly with you to pass this bill.
cost of—food—gas—housing—and so China. So—let’s not wait any longer. Send it
much more. I understand. As I’ve told Xi Jinping—it is never a to my desk. I’ll sign it. And we will
I remember when my Dad had to good bet to bet against the American really take off.
leave our home in Scranton, Pennsyl- people. We’ll create good jobs for mil- And Intel is not alone. There’s some-
vania to find work. lions of Americans—modernizing roads, thing happening in America. Just look
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March 1, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S893
around—and you’ll see an amazing charge families like Joshua and his pay a lower tax rate than a teacher or
story. The rebirth of the pride that Dad up to 30 times more. I spoke with a firefighter.
comes from stamping products ‘‘Made Joshua’s mom. Imagine what it’s like So—that’s my plan. It will grow the
In America’’. The revitalization of to—look at your child who needs insu- economy—and lower costs for families.
American manufacturing—Companies lin and have no idea how you’re going So—what are we waiting for? Let’s
are choosing to build new factories to pay for it. What it does to your dig- get this done.
here—when just a few years ago—they nity—your ability to look your child in And while you’re at it—confirm my
would have built them overseas. the eye to be the parent you expect to nominees to the Federal Reserve—
That’s what is happening—Ford is in- be. which plays a critical role in fighting
vesting $11 billion to build electric ve- Joshua is here with us tonight. Yes- inflation.
hicles—creating 11,000 jobs across the terday was his birthday. Happy birth- My plan will not only lower costs to
country. GM is making the largest in- day, buddy. For Joshua—and for the give families a fair shot—it will lower
vestment in its history—$7 billion to 200,000 other young people with Type 1 the deficit.
build electric vehicles—creating 4,000 diabetes—let’s cap the cost of insulin The previous administration not only
jobs in Michigan. at $35 a month so everyone can afford ballooned the deficit with tax cuts for
All told—we created 369,000 new man- it. the very wealthy and corporations—it
ufacturing jobs in America—just last Drug companies will still do very undermined the watchdogs whose job
year. Powered by people I’ve met—like well. And while we’re at it—let Medi- was to keep pandemic relief funds from
JoJo Burgess—from generations of care negotiate lower prices for pre- being wasted.
union steelworkers in Pittsburgh— scription drugs—like the VA already But in my Administration—the
who’s here with us tonight. does. watchdogs have been—welcomed back.
As Ohio Senator SHERROD BROWN Look—the American Rescue Plan—is We’re going after the criminals—who
says—‘‘It’s time to bury the label helping millions of families on Afford- stole billions in relief money meant for
‘‘Rust Belt.’’ It’s time. able Care Act plans—save $2,400 a year small businesses and millions of Amer-
But with all the bright spots in our on their health care premiums. Let’s icans.
economy—record job growth and high- close the coverage gap and make those And tonight—I’m announcing that
er wages—too many families are strug- savings PERMANENT. the Justice Department will name a
gling to keep up with the bills. Infla- Second—cut energy costs for fami- chief prosecutor for pandemic fraud.
tion is robbing them of the gains they lies—an average of $500 a year—by By the end of this year—the deficit
might otherwise feel. I get it. combatting climate change. will be down to less than half what it
That’s why my top priority is getting Let’s provide investments and tax was before I took office. The only
prices under control. Look—our econ- credits to weatherize your homes and President ever to cut the deficit by
omy roared back faster than most pre- businesses to be energy efficient and more than one trillion dollars in a sin-
dicted—but the pandemic meant that you get a tax credit, double America’s gle year.
businesses had a hard time hiring clean energy production in solar, wind, Lowering your costs—also means de-
enough workers to keep up production and so much more, and lower the price manding more competition. I’m a capi-
in their factories. of electric vehicles—saving you an- talist—but capitalism without com-
The pandemic also disrupted global other $80 a month because you’ll never petition isn’t capitalism. It’s exploi-
supply chains. When factories close—it have to pay at the gas pump again. tation—and it drives up prices. When
Third—cut the cost of child care.
takes longer to make goods and get corporations don’t have to compete—
Many families pay up to $14,000 a year
them from the warehouse to the their profits go up—your prices go up—
for child care per child. Middle-class
store—and prices go up. and small businesses—and family farm-
and working families shouldn’t have to
Look at cars. Last year—there ers and ranchers—go under. We see it
pay more than 7 percent of their in-
weren’t enough semiconductors to happening with ocean carriers moving
come for care of young children.
make all the cars that people wanted goods in and out of America.
My plan will cut the cost in half for
to buy. And guess what—prices of auto- During the pandemic, these foreign-
most families—and help parents—in-
mobiles went up. owned companies raised prices by as
cluding millions of women—who left
So—we have a choice. One way to much as 1,000 percent—and made
the workforce during the pandemic be-
fight inflation is to drive down wages record profits.
cause they couldn’t afford child care—
and make Americans poorer. Tonight—I’m announcing a crack-
to be able to get back to work.
I have a better plan to fight infla- My plan doesn’t stop there. It also in- down on these companies overcharging
tion. Lower your COSTS—not your cludes home and long-term care. More American businesses and consumers.
wages. Make more cars and semi- affordable housing. And Pre-K for And as Wall Street firms take over
conductors in America. More infra- every 3- and 4-year-old. All of these more nursing homes—quality in those
structure and innovation—in America. will lower costs. homes has gone down—and costs have
More goods moving faster and cheap- And under my plan—nobody earning gone up. That ends on my watch.
er—in America. More jobs where you less than $400,000 a year—will pay an Medicare is going to set higher stand-
can earn a good living—in America. additional penny in new taxes. Nobody. ards for nursing homes—and make sure
And instead of relying on foreign sup- The one thing all Americans agree on your loved ones get the care they de-
ply chains—let’s make it in America. is that the tax system is NOT fair. We serve and expect.
Economists call it—‘‘increasing the have to fix it. I’m not looking to pun- We’ll also cut costs and keep the
productive capacity of our economy.’’ I ish anyone. But let’s make sure cor- economy going strong—by giving work-
call it building a better America. porations and the wealthiest Ameri- ers a fair shot—provide more training
My plan to fight inflation—will lower cans—start paying their fair share. and apprenticeships—hire them based
your costs and lower the deficit. 17 Just last year—55 Fortune 500 cor- on their skills not degrees.
Nobel laureates in economics say my porations earned $40 billion in profits Let’s pass the Paycheck Fairness Act
plan will ease long-term inflationary and paid zero dollars in Federal income and paid leave. Raise the minimum
pressures. Top business leaders and tax. wage to $15 an hour—and extend the
most Americans—support my plan. That’s simply not fair. That’s why Child Tax Credit—so no one has to
And here’s the plan. I’ve proposed a 15 percent minimum raise a family in poverty.
First—cut the cost of prescription tax rate for corporations. Let’s increase Pell Grants—and in-
drugs. Just look at insulin. One in ten We got more than 130 countries to crease our historic support of HBCUs—
dlhill on DSK120RN23PROD with SENATE
Americans has diabetes. In Virginia—I agree on a global minimum tax rate— and invest in what Jill—our First Lady
met a 13-year-old boy named Joshua so companies can’t get out of paying who teaches full-time—calls America’s
Davis. He and his Dad both have Type their taxes at home by shipping jobs best-kept secret—community colleges.
1 diabetes—which means they need in- and factories overseas. And let’s pass the PRO Act—when a
sulin every day. Insulin costs about $10 That’s why I’ve proposed—closing majority of workers want to form a
a vial to make. But drug companies loopholes so the very wealthy—don’t union—they shouldn’t be stopped.
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S894 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 1, 2022
When we invest in our workers— Even if you already ordered free the trust and safety every community
when we build the economy from the tests—tonight—I am announcing that deserves.
bottom up and the middle out—to- you can order more from I’ve worked on these issues a long
gether—we can do something we COVIDTESTS.gov starting next week. time. I know what works investing in
haven’t done in a long time. Build a Second—we must prepare for new crime prevention and community po-
better America. variants. Over the past year—we’ve lice officers—who’ll walk the beat—
For more than 2 years—COVID–19 has gotten much better at detecting new who’ll know the neighborhood and who
impacted every decision in our lives— variants. If necessary—we’ll be able to can restore trust and safety. So let’s
and the life of the Nation. deploy new vaccines within 100 days in- not abandon our streets. Or choose be-
And I know you’re—tired—frus- stead of many more months or years. tween safety and equal justice. Let’s
trated—and exhausted. And—if Congress provides the funds we come together to protect our commu-
But I also know this. Because of the need—we’ll have new stockpiles of— nities—restore trust—and hold law en-
progress we’ve made—because of your tests, masks, and pills ready if needed. forcement accountable.
resilience—and the tools we have—to- I cannot promise a new variant won’t That’s why the Justice Department
night—I can say—we are moving for- come. But I can promise you we’ll do required body cameras—banned
ward safely back to more normal rou- everything within our power to be chokeholds—and restricted no-knock
tines. ready if it does. warrants for its officers. That’s why
We’ve reached a new moment in the Third—we can end the shutdown of the American Rescue Plan provided
fight against COVID–19—with severe schools and businesses. We have the $350 billion that cities, States, and
cases down to a level not seen since tools we need. It’s time for Americans counties—can use to hire more police—
last July. to get back to work—and fill our great and invest in proven strategies like
Just a few days ago—the Centers for downtowns again. People working from community violence interruption—
Disease Control and Prevention—the home—can feel safe to begin to return trusted messengers breaking the cycle
CDC—issued new mask guidelines. to the office. of violence and trauma and giving
Under these new guidelines—most We’re doing that here in the Federal young people hope.
Americans in most of the country—can Government. The vast majority of Fed- We should all agree—the answer is
now be mask free. eral workers will once again work in not to defund the police. The answer is
And based on the projections—more person. to FUND the police—with the re-
of the country will reach that point Our schools are open—let’s keep it sources and training they need to pro-
across the next couple of weeks. that way. Our kids need to be in tect our communities.
Thanks to the progress we have made school. I ask Democrats and Republicans
this past year—COVID–19 no longer And with 75 percent of adult Ameri-
alike: Pass my budget and keep our
controls our lives. I know some are cans fully vaccinated—and hospitaliza-
neighborhoods safe.
talking about ‘‘living with COVID–19’’. tions down by 77 percent—most Ameri-
And I will keep doing everything in
Tonight—I say that we will never just cans—can remove their masks—return
my power to crack down on gun traf-
accept living with COVID–19. We will to work—stay in the classroom—and
ficking and ghost guns you can buy on-
continue to combat the virus—as we do move forward safely.
We achieved this because we pro- line and make at home. They have no
other diseases.
vided—free vaccines—treatments— serial numbers—and can’t be traced.
And because this is a virus that mu-
tates and spreads—we will stay on tests—and masks. And I ask Congress to pass proven
guard. Of course—continuing this costs measures to reduce gun violence. Pass
Here are four common sense steps as money. I will soon send Congress a re- universal background checks. Why
we move forward safely. quest. The vast majority of Americans should anyone on a terrorist list be
First—stay protected with vaccines have used these tools and may want to able to purchase a weapon? Ban assault
and treatments. We know how incred- again—so I expect Congress to pass it weapons and high-capacity magazines.
ibly effective vaccines are. If you’re quickly. Repeal the liability shield that makes
vaccinated and boosted you have the Fourth—we will continue vaccinating gun manufacturers the only industry
highest degree of protection. We will the world. We’ve sent 475 million vac- in America that can’t be sued. These
never give up on vaccinating more cine doses to 112 countries—more than laws don’t infringe on the Second
Americans. any other nation. And we won’t stop. Amendment. They save lives.
Now—I know parents with kids under We have lost so much to COVID–19. The most fundamental right in
5 are eager to see a vaccine authorized Time with one another. And worst of America is the right to vote—and have
for their children. The scientists are all—so much loss of life. Let’s use this it counted. And it’s under assault. In
working hard to get that done—and moment to re-set. Let’s stop looking at State after State—new laws have been
we’ll be ready with plenty of vaccines COVID–19—as a partisan dividing line— passed—not only to suppress the vote—
when they do. and see it for what it is—a God-awful but to subvert entire elections. We can-
We’re also ready with anti-viral disease. Let’s stop seeing each other as not let this happen.
treatments. If you get COVID–19—the enemies—and start seeing each other Tonight—I call on the Senate to:
Pfizer pill reduces your chances of end- for who we really are: fellow Ameri- Pass the Freedom to Vote Act; Pass
ing up in the hospital by 90 percent. cans. the John Lewis Voting Rights Act; and
We’ve ordered more of these pills than We can’t change how divided we’ve while you’re at it—pass the Disclose
anyone in the world. been. But we can change how we move Act—so Americans can know who is
And Pfizer is working overtime to forward—on COVID–19—and other funding our elections.
get us 1 million pills this month—and issues we must face together. Tonight—I’d like to honor someone
more than double that next month. I recently visited the New York City who has dedicated his life to serve this
And—we’re launching the ‘‘Test to Police Department days after the fu- country—Justice Stephen Breyer—an
Treat’’ initiative so people can get nerals of Officer Wilbert Mora—and his Army veteran—Constitutional schol-
tested at a pharmacy—and if they’re partner—Officer Jason Rivera. They ar—and retiring Justice of the United
positive—receive antiviral pills on the were responding to a 9–1–1 call—when a States Supreme Court.
spot at no cost. man shot and killed them with a stolen Justice Breyer—thank you for your
If you’re immunocompromised—or gun. Officer Mora was 27 years old. Of- service.
have some other vulnerability—we ficer Rivera was 22. Both Dominican One of the most serious constitu-
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have treatments and free high-quality Americans who’d grown up on the same tional responsibilities a President
masks. We’re leaving no one behind—or streets they later chose to patrol as po- has—is nominating someone to serve
ignoring anyone’s needs as we move lice officers. I spoke with their fami- on the United States Supreme Court.
forward. And on testing—we have made lies—and told them—that we are for- And I did that 4 days ago—when I nom-
hundreds of millions of tests available ever in debt for their sacrifice—and we inated Circuit Court of Appeals Judge
for you to order for free. will carry on their mission to restore Ketanji Brown Jackson.
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March 1, 2022 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S895
One of our Nation’s top legal minds It is important for us to show the Na- Heath Robinson. He was born a soldier.
who will continue Justice Breyer’s leg- tion that we can come together and do Army National Guard. Combat medic
acy of excellence. A former top liti- big things. in Kosovo and Iraq. Stationed near
gator in private practice. A former So—tonight I’m offering a Unity Baghdad just yards from burn pits the
Federal public defender. And from a Agenda for the Nation. Four big things size of football fields.
family of—public school educators and we can do together. Heath’s widow Danielle is here with
police officers—a consensus builder. First—beat the opioid epidemic. us tonight. They loved going to Ohio
Since she’s been nominated—she’s re- There is so much we can do. Increase State football games. He loved building
ceived a broad range of support—from funding for—prevention—treatment— Legos with their daughter. But cancer
the Fraternal Order of Police to former harm reduction—and recovery. Get rid from prolonged exposure to burn pits
judges appointed by Democrats and Re- of outdated rules that stop doctors ravaged Heath’s lungs and body.
publicans. from prescribing treatments. Danielle says Heath was a fighter to
And if we are to advance liberty and And stop the flow of illicit drugs by the very end. He didn’t know how to
justice—we need to secure the border working with State and local law en- stop fighting—and neither did she.
and fix the immigration system. We forcement to go after traffickers. Through her pain—she found purpose—
can do both. If you’re suffering from addiction— to demand we do better.
At our border—we’ve installed new know you are not alone. I believe in re- Tonight—Danielle—we are.
technology—like cutting-edge scan- covery—and I celebrate the 23 million The VA is pioneering new ways of
ners—to better detect drug smuggling. Americans in recovery. linking toxic exposures to diseases—al-
We’ve set up joint patrols with Mexico Second—let’s take on mental health. ready helping more veterans get bene-
and Guatemala to catch more human Especially among our children whose fits.
traffickers. We’re putting in place dedi- lives and education have been turned And tonight—I’m announcing we’re
cated immigration judges so families upside down. The American Rescue expanding eligibility to veterans suf-
fleeing persecution and violence can Plan gave schools money to hire teach- fering from nine respiratory cancers.
have their cases heard faster. We’re se- ers and help students make up for lost I’m also calling on Congress—Pass a
curing commitments and supporting learning. I urge every parent to make law to make sure veterans devastated
partners in South and Central America sure your school does just that. And we by toxic exposures in Iraq and Afghani-
to host more refugees and secure their can all play a part. Sign up to be a stan finally get the benefits and com-
own borders. tutor or a mentor. prehensive health care they deserve.
We can do all this while keeping lit Children were also struggling before And fourth—let’s end cancer as we
the torch of liberty that has led gen- the pandemic. Bullying—violence— know it.
erations of immigrants to this land— trauma—and the harms of social This is personal to me and Jill—to
my forefathers and so many of yours. media. As Frances Haugen—who is here KAMALA and to so many of you. Cancer
Provide a pathway to citizenship—for with us tonight—has shown we must is the #2 cause of death in America—
Dreamers—those on temporary sta- hold social media platforms account- second only to heart disease.
able for the national experiment Last month—I announced our plan to
tus—farm workers—and essential
they’re conducting on our children—for supercharge the Cancer Moonshot that
workers.
Revise our laws—so businesses have profit. President Obama asked me to lead 6
the workers they need and families It’s time to—strengthen privacy pro- years ago.
Our goal is to—cut the cancer death
don’t wait decades to reunite. It’s not tections—ban targeted advertising to
rate by at least 50 percent over the
only the right thing to do—it’s the eco- children—demand tech companies stop
next 25 years.
nomically smart thing to do. collecting personal data on our chil-
Turn more cancers from death sen-
That’s why immigration reform is dren.
tences into treatable diseases. More
supported by—everyone from labor And let’s get all Americans the men-
support for patients and families.
unions to religious leaders to the U.S. tal health services they need. More To get there—I call on Congress to
Chamber of Commerce. Let’s get it people they can turn to for help and fund ARPA–H—the Advanced Research
done once and for all. full parity between physical and men- Projects Agency for Health.
Advancing liberty and justice also re- tal health care. It’s based on DARPA—the Defense
quires protecting the rights of women. Third—support our veterans. Vet- Department project that led to the
The constitutional right affirmed in erans are the best of us. I’ve always be- Internet, GPS, and so much more.
Roe v. Wade—standing precedent for lieved that—we have a sacred obliga- ARPA–H will have a singular pur-
half a century—is under attack—as tion to equip all those we send to war— pose—to drive breakthroughs in can-
never before. If we want to go for- and care for them and their families cer—Alzheimer’s—diabetes—and more.
ward—not backward—we must protect when they come home. A unity agenda for the Nation. We
access to health care. Preserve a wom- My Administration is providing as- can do this.
an’s right to choose. And let’s continue sistance with job training and housing My fellow Americans—tonight—we
to advance maternal health care in —and now helping lower-income vet- have gathered in a sacred space—The
America. erans get VA care debt-free. citadel of our democracy. In this Cap-
And for our LGBTQ+ Americans— Our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan itol—generation after generation—
let’s finally get the bipartisan Equality faced many dangers. One was being sta- Americans have debated great ques-
Act to my desk. The onslaught of State tioned at bases—and breathing in— tions amid great strife—and have done
laws targeting transgender Americans toxic smoke from ‘‘burn pits’’ that in- great things.
and their families is WRONG. As I said cinerated—wastes of war—medical and We have fought for freedom. Ex-
last year—especially to our younger hazard material, jet fuel, and more. panded liberty. Defeated totali-
transgender Americans—I will always When they came home many of the tarianism and terror. And built the—
have your back as your President—so world’s fittest and best trained war- Strongest. Freest. And most pros-
you can be yourself—and reach your riors were never the same. perous Nation the world has ever
God-given potential. Headaches. Numbness. Dizziness. A known.
While it often appears that we never cancer that would put them in a flag- Now is the hour. Our moment of re-
agree—that isn’t true. draped coffin. I know. One of those sol- sponsibility. Our test of resolve and
I signed 80 bipartisan bills into law diers was my Major Beau Biden. We conscience—Of history itself.
last year. From preventing government don’t know for sure if a burn pit was It is in this moment that our char-
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shutdowns. To protecting Asian-Ameri- the cause of his brain cancer or the dis- acter is formed. Our purpose is found.
cans from—still-too-common hate eases of so many of our troops. But I’m Our future is forged. Well—I know this
crimes. To reforming military justice. committed to finding out everything Nation—we will meet the test.
And soon—we’ll strengthen the Vio- we can. Committed to military fami- To protect freedom and liberty. To
lence Against Women Act that I first lies like Danielle Robinson from Ohio, expand fairness and opportunity. We
wrote three decades ago. the widow of Sergeant First Class will save democracy.
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S896 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 1, 2022
As hard as these times have been—I Mr. SCHUMER. I now ask for a sec- Putin mounts his illegal, immoral, and
am more optimistic about America ond reading, and I object to my own re- unprovoked attack, he is escalating
today than I have been my whole life. quest, all en bloc. cyber attacks on democracies around
Because I see the future that is with- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- the world. So, as the need to protect
in our grasp. tion is heard. this country from cyber attack is al-
Because I know there is simply noth- The bills will now receive their sec- ways very, very, very important, it has
ing beyond our capacity. ond readings on the next legislative assumed even greater importance now
We are the only nation on Earth that day. with Putin’s fighting in Ukraine and
has always turned every crisis we have threatening cyber attacks throughout
f
faced into an opportunity. the world.
The only nation that can be defined EXECUTIVE SESSION Today, the Senate is taking an ur-
by a single word: Possibilities. gently needed step to protect the
So on this night—in our 246th year as --- American people, American critical in-
a Nation—I have come to report on the EXECUTIVE CALENDAR frastructure, and American Govern-
State of the Union. ment institutions from the dangerous
And my report is this: the State of Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask
unanimous consent that the Senate threat of cyber attacks. The most im-
the Union is strong—because you—the
proceed to executive session to con- portant part of this provision will re-
American people—are strong.
We are stronger today—than we were sider the following nominations en quire our companies—our individual
a year ago. bloc: Calendar Nos. 639, 409, 411, 693, businesses—to report cyber attacks
And we will be stronger a year from and 694; that the Senate vote on the when they occur.
now than we are today. nominations en bloc without inter- There has been a reluctance on the
Now is our moment—to meet and— vening action or debate; that the mo- part of many in the business commu-
overcome the challenges—of our time. tions to reconsider be considered made nity to want to do this because it may
And we will. and laid upon the table with no inter- expose them to other kinds of harm,
As One People. vening action or debate; that any and maybe the public will not want to
One America. statements related to the nominations be involved in these businesses, but the
The United States of America. be printed in the RECORD; that the importance of the reporting is vital.
May God bless you all. May God pro- President be immediately notified of When our authorities in the govern-
tect our troops. the Senate’s action; and that the Sen- ment know of the attacks, they can
JOSEPH R. BIDEN, Jr., ate resume legislative session. prepare against future attacks. They
THE WHITE HOUSE, March 1, 2022. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without will know who is attacking, where they
f objection, it is so ordered. are attacking, and how they are at-
APPOINTMENT The question is, Will the Senate ad- tacking. That will allow them to
vise and consent to the nominations of strengthen our defenses against future
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The cyber attacks. So this knowledge of
Chair announces, on behalf of the Ma- Donald Armin Blome, of Illinois, a Ca-
reer Member of the Senior Foreign cyber attacks, caused by foreign enti-
jority Leader, pursuant to the provi- ties or domestic entities, is vital as
sions of Public Law 106–398, as amended Service, Class of Minister-Counselor, to
be Ambassador Extraordinary and America seeks to protect itself.
by Public Law 108–7, and in consulta- This legislation has been around for a
tion with the Chairmen of the Senate Plenipotentiary of the United States of
America to the Islamic Republic of while. For too long, certain business
Committee on Armed Services and the interests opposed it, but now they have
Senate Committee on Finance, the ap- Pakistan; Raymond A. Limon, of Ne-
vada, to be a Member of the Merit Sys- come to see the light, and, in fact, we
pointment of the following individuals have a bipartisan agreement—unani-
to serve as members of the United tems Protection Board for the term of
seven years expiring March 1, 2025; mous in this Chamber—that this bill
States-China Economic and Security move forward. That is very important
Review Commission: the Honorable Tristan Lynn Leavitt, of Idaho, to be a
Member of the Merit Systems Protec- for America’s security. It is more im-
Carte P. Goodwin, of West Virginia, for portant than it ever has been. Cyber
a term beginning January 1, 2022, and tion Board for the term of seven years
expiring March 1, 2023; John F. Plumb, warfare is truly one of the dark arts—
expiring December 31, 2023 (reappoint- specialized by Putin and his authori-
ment); and James Mann, of New York, of New York, to be an Assistant Sec-
retary of Defense (New Position); and tarian regime—and this bill will help
for a term beginning January 1, 2022, to protect us from Putin’s attempted
expiring December 31, 2023. Melissa Griffin Dalton, of Virginia, to
be an Assistant Secretary of Defense, cyber attacks against our country.
f Last year, I asked Chairman PETERS
all en bloc?
MEASURES READ THE FIRST TIME The nominations were confirmed en and other relevant committee chairs to
EN BLOC—S. 3717, S. 3723, AND S. bloc. draft legislation to counter the in-
3724 creased threat, and Senator PETERS
f has done an outstanding job. I want to
Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I un-
LEGISLATIVE SESSION commend him and Senator PORTMAN
derstand that there are three bills at
and so many others—Senator WARNER
the desk, and I ask for their first read- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen-
among them—for being heavily in-
ings en bloc. ate will now resume legislative session.
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The volved in this issue.
f Tonight, we will pass legislation by
clerk will read the bills by title for the
unanimous consent. When this legisla-
first time en bloc. STRENGTHENING AMERICAN
The senior assistant legislative clerk tion passes and is signed into law,
CYBERSECURITY ACT OF 2022
read as follows: America will be a safer place from one
Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, now, of the greatest scourges we worry
A bill (S. 3717) to withdraw normal trade
on something that is very important to about—cyber attack. I am glad we are
relations treatment from, and apply certain
provisions of title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 this country, Senator PETERS, in a doing this, and I am glad both sides
to, products of the Russian Federation, and minute, will move to pass the have agreed.
for other purposes. Strengthening American Cybersecurity I yield to Senator PETERS, who, as I
A bill (S. 3723) to impose sanctions with re- Act. said, as chair of the HSGAC Com-
spect to the Russian Federation in response As we all know, protecting America— mittee, has done a terrific job in shep-
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to the invasion of Ukraine, to confiscate as- our government, our businesses, our herding this legislation through the
sets of the Russian Federation and remit utilities, and so many of our entities—
those assets to the legitimate Government of
Senate.
Ukraine, and for other purposes.
from cyber attack has been very, very The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen-
A bill (S. 3724) to provide emergency sup- important over the last decade. It be- ator from Michigan.
plemental appropriations in response to the comes even more important now. As Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I ask
crisis in Ukraine, and for other purposes. the war in Ukraine goes on and as unanimous consent that the Senate
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