hyperdemocracy/usc-textversion huggingface dataset:
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 392 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 8, 2016 Mr. Leahy (for himself, Mr. Durbin , Mr. Murphy , Mr. McCain , Mr. Reed , Mr. Whitehouse , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Peters , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Menendez , Mr. Cardin , Mr. Coons , Mr. Markey , Mrs. Feinstein , and Mr. Brown ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations March 16, 2016 Reported by Mr. Corker , without amendment April 7, 2016 Considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process and urging the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps to redress this injustice, to release all political prisoners, and to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.

Whereas the Maldives is strategically important due to its location, which straddles major trade routes in the Indian Ocean; Whereas increasing civil rights violations in the Maldives fuel instability and pose a threat to regional security; Whereas since January 2015, President Abdulla Yameen of the Maldives has increasingly cracked down on dissent within his own party and the political opposition, presided over the erosion of judicial impartiality, and put increasing pressure on civil society; Whereas the arrest of former President Mohamed Nasheed in March 2015 was widely condemned as politically motivated, and his conviction and sentence of 13 years in prison has been condemned by Amnesty International as a travesty of justice ; Whereas in his speech in Sri Lanka on May 2, 2015, Secretary of State John Kerry stated, [W]e've seen even now how regrettably there are troubling signs that democracy is under threat in the Maldives where the former President Nasheed has been imprisoned without due process. And that is an injustice that must be addressed soon. ; and Whereas, on September 14, 2015, in his opening statement at the 30th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad said— (1) In the Maldives, the rule of law continues to be manipulated for political ends. ; and (2) in reference to former President Mohamed Nasheed’s detention, Given the deeply tainted nature of this case, I urge the Government to release him, and to review several hundred pending criminal cases against opposition supporters in relation to protests in recent months. : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) expresses profound concern over the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process; and (2) urges the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps— (A) to redress this injustice; (B) to release all political prisoners; and (C) to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 392 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 8, 2016 Mr. Leahy (for himself, Mr. Durbin , Mr. Murphy , Mr. McCain , Mr. Reed , Mr. Whitehouse , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Peters , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Menendez , Mr. Cardin , Mr. Coons , Mr. Markey , and Mrs. Feinstein ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process and urging the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps to redress this injustice, to release all political prisoners, and to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.

Whereas the Maldives is strategically important due to its location, which straddles major trade routes in the Indian Ocean; Whereas increasing civil rights violations in the Maldives fuel instability and pose a threat to regional security; Whereas since January 2015, President Abdulla Yameen of the Maldives has increasingly cracked down on dissent within his own party and the political opposition, presided over the erosion of judicial impartiality, and put increasing pressure on civil society; Whereas the arrest of former President Mohamed Nasheed in March 2015, was widely condemned as politically motivated, and his conviction and sentence of 13 years in prison has been condemned by Amnesty International as a travesty of justice ; Whereas in his speech in Sri Lanka on May 2, 2015, Secretary of State John Kerry stated, [W]e've seen even now how regrettably there are troubling signs that democracy is under threat in the Maldives where the former President Nasheed has been imprisoned without due process. And that is an injustice that must be addressed soon. ; and Whereas, on September 14, 2015, in his opening statement at the 30th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad said— (1) In the Maldives, the rule of law continues to be manipulated for political ends. ; and (2) in reference to former President Mohamed Nasheed’s detention, Given the deeply tainted nature of this case, I urge the Government to release him, and to review several hundred pending criminal cases against opposition supporters in relation to protests in recent months. : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) expresses profound concern over the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process; and (2) urges the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps— (A) to redress this injustice; (B) to release all political prisoners; and (C) to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.
III Calendar No. 402 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 392 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 8, 2016 Mr. Leahy (for himself, Mr. Durbin , Mr. Murphy , Mr. McCain , Mr. Reed , Mr. Whitehouse , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Peters , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Menendez , Mr. Cardin , Mr. Coons , Mr. Markey , and Mrs. Feinstein ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations March 16, 2016 Reported by Mr. Corker , without amendment RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate regarding the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process and urging the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps to redress this injustice, to release all political prisoners, and to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.

Whereas the Maldives is strategically important due to its location, which straddles major trade routes in the Indian Ocean; Whereas increasing civil rights violations in the Maldives fuel instability and pose a threat to regional security; Whereas since January 2015, President Abdulla Yameen of the Maldives has increasingly cracked down on dissent within his own party and the political opposition, presided over the erosion of judicial impartiality, and put increasing pressure on civil society; Whereas the arrest of former President Mohamed Nasheed in March 2015 was widely condemned as politically motivated, and his conviction and sentence of 13 years in prison has been condemned by Amnesty International as a travesty of justice ; Whereas in his speech in Sri Lanka on May 2, 2015, Secretary of State John Kerry stated, [W]e've seen even now how regrettably there are troubling signs that democracy is under threat in the Maldives where the former President Nasheed has been imprisoned without due process. And that is an injustice that must be addressed soon. ; and Whereas, on September 14, 2015, in his opening statement at the 30th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad said— (1) In the Maldives, the rule of law continues to be manipulated for political ends. ; and (2) in reference to former President Mohamed Nasheed’s detention, Given the deeply tainted nature of this case, I urge the Government to release him, and to review several hundred pending criminal cases against opposition supporters in relation to protests in recent months. : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) expresses profound concern over the prosecution and conviction of former President Mohamed Nasheed without due process; and (2) urges the Government of the Maldives to take all necessary steps— (A) to redress this injustice; (B) to release all political prisoners; and (C) to ensure due process and freedom from political prosecution for all the people of the Maldives.

March 16, 2016 Reported without amendment
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 395 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 9, 2016 Mr. Enzi (for himself, Mr. Menendez , and Ms. Ayotte ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Supporting the designation of March 2016, as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month .

Whereas colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men and women combined in the United States; Whereas, in 2016, more than 134,000 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and approximately 49,000 more will die from it; Whereas colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer because screening tests can find polyps that can be removed before becoming cancerous; Whereas screening tests can detect colorectal cancer early, which is when treatment works best; Whereas the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that if every individual aged 50 or older had regular screening tests, as many as 60 percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented; Whereas the 5-year survival rate for patients with localized colorectal cancer is 90 percent, but only 39 percent of all diagnoses occur at that stage; Whereas colorectal cancer screenings can effectively reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer and mortality, but 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 50 and 75 are not up to date with recommended colorectal cancer screening; Whereas public awareness and education campaigns on colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and symptoms are held during the month of March each year; and Whereas educational efforts can help provide to the public information on methods of prevention and screening, as well as symptoms for early detection: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the designation of March 2016, as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the goals and ideals of that Month; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month with appropriate awareness and educational activities.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 396 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 10, 2016 Mr. Daines (for himself, Mr. Moran , Mr. Gardner , Mr. Cotton , Mr. Roberts , Mr. Inhofe , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Kirk , Mr. Boozman , Mr. Cruz , Mrs. Ernst , Mr. Isakson , Mr. Scott , Mr. Vitter , Mr. Hatch , and Mr. Perdue ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of Senate that individuals captured by the United States for supporting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant should be detained at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

That it is the sense of the Senate that— (1) the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has declared war on the United States; (2) the United States Armed Forces are currently engaged in combat operations against ISIL; (3) in conducting combat operations against ISIL, the United States has captured and detained individuals associated with ISIL and will likely capture and hold additional ISIL detainees; (4) following the horrific terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the United States determined that it would detain at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, individuals who had engaged in, aided, or abetted, or conspired to commit, acts of international terrorism, or acts in preparation therefor, that have caused, threaten to cause, or have as their aim to cause, injury to or adverse effects on the United States, its citizens, national security, foreign policy, or economy; (5) members of ISIL captured by the United States during combat operations against ISIL meet such criteria for continued detention at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay; and (6) all individuals captured by the United States during combat operations against ISIL that meet such criteria by their affiliation with ISIL must be detained outside the United States and its territories and should be transferred to United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 397 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 10, 2016 Ms. Cantwell (for herself, Mr. Crapo , Mr. Tester , Mrs. Murray , and Ms. Heitkamp ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry RESOLUTION Supporting the recognition of 2016 as the Year of Pulses and acknowledging the nutritional benefit and important contribution to soil health of pulse crops.

Whereas the United States will celebrate 2016 as the Year of Pulses ; Whereas the 68th United Nations General Assembly declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses; Whereas a pulse is a dry, edible seed of a plant in the legume family, including a dry bean, dry pea, lentil, or chickpea; Whereas pulse crops are grown in abundance in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming; Whereas a pulse is an important component of a nutritious diet and is high in plant-based protein, vitamins, fiber, and minerals, including iron, potassium, magnesium, and zinc; Whereas a pulse helps prevent serious and chronic illness, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and stroke; Whereas a legume serves as an important rotation crop, keeps soil fertile, and improves overall soil health by replenishing nitrogen; Whereas a pulse crop provides food security and nutrition to much of the developing world as a low-cost source of protein; and Whereas a pulse crop is an important economic development crop for small farmers, for both domestic production and export potential: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate supports— (1) the recognition of 2016 as the Year of Pulses ; (2) the participation by representatives of the Federal Government in events and activities organized pursuant to the observance by the United Nations of the International Year of Pulses in 2016; and (3) the future funding of programs to support the cultivation and consumption of pulses.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 398 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 14, 2016 Mr. Grassley (for himself, Mr. Coons , and Mr. King ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating March 15, 2016, as National Speech and Debate Education Day .

Whereas it is essential for youth to learn and practice the art of communicating with and without technology; Whereas speech and debate education offers students myriad forms of public speaking through which students may develop talent and exercise unique voice and character; Whereas speech and debate education gives students the 21st-century skills of communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration; Whereas critical analysis and effective communication allow important ideas, texts, and philosophies the opportunity to flourish; Whereas personal, professional, and civic interactions are enhanced by the ability of the participants in those interactions to listen, concur, question, and dissent with reason and compassion; Whereas students who participate in speech and debate have chosen a challenging activity that requires regular practice, dedication, and hard work; Whereas teachers and coaches of speech and debate devote in-school, afterschool, and weekend hours to equip students with life-changing skills and opportunities; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day emphasizes the lifelong impact of providing people of the United States with the confidence and preparation to both discern and share views; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day acknowledges that most achievements, celebrations, commemorations, and pivotal moments in modern history begin, end, or are crystallized with public address; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day recognizes that learning to research, construct, and present an argument is integral to personal advocacy, social movements, and the making of public policy; Whereas the National Speech & Debate Association, in conjunction with national and local partners, honors and celebrates the importance of speech and debate through National Speech and Debate Education Day; and Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day emphasizes the importance of speech and debate education and the integration of speech and debate education across grade levels and disciplines: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates March 15, 2016, as National Speech and Debate Education Day ; (2) strongly affirms the purposes of National Speech and Debate Education Day; and (3) encourages educational institutions, businesses, community and civic associations, and all people of the United States to celebrate and promote National Speech and Debate Education Day.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 400 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 15, 2016 Mr. Isakson (for himself and Mr. Casey ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating March 25, 2016, as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day .

Whereas a group of permanent disorders of the development of movement and posture that are attributed to nonprogressive disturbances that occur in the developing brain is referred to as cerebral palsy ; Whereas cerebral palsy, the most common motor disability in children, is caused by damage to 1 or more specific areas of the developing brain, which usually occurs during fetal development before, during, or after birth; Whereas the majority of children who have cerebral palsy are born with cerebral palsy, but cerebral palsy may be undetected for months or years; Whereas 75 percent of individuals with cerebral palsy also have 1 or more developmental disabilities, including epilepsy, intellectual disability, autism, visual impairment, or blindness; Whereas according to information released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention— (1) the prevalence of cerebral palsy is not decreasing; and (2) an estimated 1 in 323 children has cerebral palsy; Whereas approximately 800,000 individuals in the United States are affected by cerebral palsy; Whereas although there is no cure for cerebral palsy, treatment often improves the capabilities of a child with cerebral palsy; Whereas scientists and researchers are hopeful for breakthroughs in cerebral palsy research; Whereas researchers across the United States conduct important research projects involving cerebral palsy; and Whereas the Senate can raise awareness of cerebral palsy in the public and the medical community: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates March 25, 2016, as National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day ; (2) encourages each individual in the United States to become better informed about and aware of cerebral palsy; and (3) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit a copy of this resolution to the Executive Director of Reaching for the Stars: A Foundation of Hope for Children with Cerebral Palsy.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 401 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 16, 2016 Mr. Isakson (for himself and Mr. Casey ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating March 22, 2016, as National Rehabilitation Counselors Appreciation Day .

Whereas rehabilitation counselors conduct assessments, provide counseling, support families, and plan and implement rehabilitation programs for individuals in need of rehabilitation; Whereas the purpose of professional organizations for rehabilitation counseling and education is to promote the improvement of rehabilitation services available to individuals with disabilities through quality education for counselors and rehabilitation research; Whereas various professional organizations have vigorously advocated for up-to-date education and training and the maintenance of professional standards in the field of rehabilitation counseling and education, including— (1) the National Rehabilitation Association; (2) the Rehabilitation Counselors and Educators Association; (3) the National Council on Rehabilitation Education; (4) the National Rehabilitation Counseling Association; (5) the American Rehabilitation Counseling Association; (6) the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification; (7) the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation; and (8) the Council on Rehabilitation Education; Whereas, on March 22, 1983, the president of the National Council on Rehabilitation Education testified before the Subcommittee on Select Education of the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and was instrumental in bringing the need for qualified rehabilitation counselors to the attention of Congress; and Whereas rehabilitation counselors with credentials may provide a higher quality of service to individuals in need of rehabilitation and the development of accreditation systems for rehabilitation counselors supports the continued education of such counselors: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates March 22, 2016, as National Rehabilitation Counselors Appreciation Day ; and (2) commends— (A) rehabilitation counselors for the dedication and hard work rehabilitation counselors provide to individuals in need of rehabilitation; and (B) professional organizations for the efforts professional organizations have made to assist those individuals who require rehabilitation.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 402 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 16, 2016 Mr. McConnell (for himself and Mr. Reid ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION To authorize testimony, documentary production, and representation in United States of America v. Chaka Fattah, Sr., et al.

Whereas, in the case of United States of America v. Chaka Fattah, Sr., et al. , Cr. No. 15–346, pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, testimony may be needed from Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr., relating to his official responsibilities; Whereas, by Rule VI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, no Senator shall absent himself from the service of the Senate without leave; Whereas, by the privileges of the Senate of the United States and Rule XI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, no evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may, by the judicial or administrative process, be taken from such control or possession but by permission of the Senate; Whereas, pursuant to sections 703(a) and 704(a)(2) of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, 2 U.S.C. §§ 288b(a) and 288c(a)(2), the Senate may direct its counsel to represent Members of the Senate with respect to any subpoena, order, or request for testimony relating to their official responsibilities; and Whereas, when it appears that evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may promote the administration of justice, the Senate will take such action as will promote the ends of justice consistent with the privileges of the Senate: Now, therefore, be it

That Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr., is authorized to testify and to produce documents in the case of United States of America v. Chaka Fattah, Sr., et al. , except when his attendance at the Senate is necessary for the performance of his legislative duties, and except concerning matters for which a privilege should be asserted. 2. The Senate Legal Counsel is authorized to represent Senator Casey in connection with the testimony authorized in section one of this resolution.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 403 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 17, 2016 Mrs. Shaheen (for herself, Mr. Alexander , Mr. Coons , Mr. Markey , Mr. Bennet , Ms. Baldwin , Mr. Donnelly , Ms. Warren , Mr. Brown , Mr. Portman , Mrs. Feinstein , Mr. Peters , Mr. Carper , Mr. Gardner , Ms. Stabenow , and Mr. Toomey ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary May 16, 2016 Committee discharged; considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week beginning April 24, 2016 as National Industrial Assessment Center Week in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Industrial Assessment Centers.

Whereas Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs) are university-led programs funded by the Department of Energy that provide energy efficiency assessments to small- and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in the United States for improving energy efficiency and reducing water usage and waste; Whereas IACs increase the energy efficiency, productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness of manufacturers in the United States; Whereas, since the inception of the IAC program in 1976, IACs have conducted more than 16,000 assessments at manufacturing plants across the United States; Whereas the assessments conducted by IACs have saved an estimated 76,000,000,000,000 British thermal units, a quantity equivalent to meeting the energy needs of almost 1,400,000 homes in the United States; Whereas IACs have saved participating manufacturers more than $1,000,000,000 in energy costs; Whereas an estimated 6,000,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions have been avoided due to IAC assessments, a quantity equivalent to the emissions from more than 1,200,000 cars; Whereas the IAC program equips undergraduate and graduate university students with the skills to conduct energy audits, improving workforce training and cultivating the next generation of energy engineers; Whereas more than 3,000 students have graduated from the IAC program, with more than 60 percent continuing on to pursue careers in energy-related fields; and Whereas 2016 marks the 40th anniversary of the IAC program: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning April 24, 2016 as National Industrial Assessment Center Week ; and (2) calls on the people of the United States to observe National Industrial Assessment Center Week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 403 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 17, 2016 Mrs. Shaheen (for herself, Mr. Alexander , Mr. Coons , Mr. Markey , Mr. Bennet , Ms. Baldwin , Mr. Donnelly , Ms. Warren , Mr. Brown , Mr. Portman , Mrs. Feinstein , Mr. Peters , Mr. Carper , Mr. Gardner , Ms. Stabenow , and Mr. Toomey ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Designating the week beginning April 24, 2016 as National Industrial Assessment Center Week in celebration of the 40th anniversary of Industrial Assessment Centers.

Whereas Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs) are university-led programs funded by the Department of Energy that provide energy efficiency assessments to small- and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises in the United States for improving energy efficiency and reducing water usage and waste; Whereas IACs increase the energy efficiency, productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness of manufacturers in the United States; Whereas, since the inception of the IAC program in 1976, IACs have conducted more than 16,000 assessments at manufacturing plants across the United States; Whereas the assessments conducted by IACs have saved an estimated 76,000,000,000,000 British thermal units, a quantity equivalent to meeting the energy needs of almost 1,400,000 homes in the United States; Whereas IACs have saved participating manufacturers more than $1,000,000,000 in energy costs; Whereas an estimated 6,000,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions have been avoided due to IAC assessments, a quantity equivalent to the emissions from more than 1,200,000 cars; Whereas the IAC program equips undergraduate and graduate university students with the skills to conduct energy audits, improving workforce training and cultivating the next generation of energy engineers; Whereas more than 3,000 students have graduated from the IAC program, with more than 60 percent continuing on to pursue careers in energy-related fields; and Whereas 2016 marks the 40th anniversary of the IAC program: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning April 24, 2016 as National Industrial Assessment Center Week ; and (2) calls on the people of the United States to observe National Industrial Assessment Center Week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 404 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 17, 2016 Mr. Whitehouse (for himself and Mr. Isakson ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary April 25, 2016 Committee discharged; considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month .

Whereas the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Association for Middle Level Education, the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, and the National Association of Elementary School Principals have declared March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month ; Whereas schools that educate middle level students are responsible for educating nearly 24,000,000 young adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15, in grades 5 through 9, who are undergoing rapid and dramatic changes in their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and moral development; Whereas young adolescents deserve challenging and engaging instruction and knowledgeable teachers and administrators who are prepared to provide young adolescents with a safe, challenging, and supportive learning environment; Whereas young adolescents deserve organizational structures that banish anonymity and promote personalization, collaboration, and social equity; Whereas the habits and values established during early adolescence have a lifelong influence that directly affects the future health and welfare of the United States; Whereas research indicates that the academic achievement of a student in grade 8 has a larger impact on the readiness of that student for an institution of higher education at the end of high school than any academic achievement of that student in high school; and Whereas in order to improve graduation rates and prepare students to be lifelong learners who are ready for an institution of higher education or a career and civic participation, the people of the United States must have a deeper understanding of the distinctive mission of middle level education: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month ; (2) honors and recognizes the importance of middle level education and the contributions of the individuals who educate middle level students; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Middle Level Education Month by visiting and celebrating schools that are responsible for educating young adolescents in the United States.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 404 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 17, 2016 Mr. Whitehouse (for himself and Mr. Isakson ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Designating March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month .

Whereas the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Association for Middle Level Education, the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform, and the National Association of Elementary School Principals have declared March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month ; Whereas schools that educate middle level students are responsible for educating nearly 24,000,000 young adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15, in grades 5 through 9, who are undergoing rapid and dramatic changes in their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and moral development; Whereas young adolescents deserve challenging and engaging instruction and knowledgeable teachers and administrators who are prepared to provide young adolescents with a safe, challenging, and supportive learning environment; Whereas young adolescents deserve organizational structures that banish anonymity and promote personalization, collaboration, and social equity; Whereas the habits and values established during early adolescence have a lifelong influence that directly affects the future health and welfare of the United States; Whereas research indicates that the academic achievement of a student in grade 8 has a larger impact on the readiness of that student for an institution of higher education at the end of high school than any academic achievement of that student in high school; and Whereas in order to improve graduation rates and prepare students to be lifelong learners who are ready for an institution of higher education or a career and civic participation, the people of the United States must have a deeper understanding of the distinctive mission of middle level education: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates March 2016 as National Middle Level Education Month ; (2) honors and recognizes the importance of middle level education and the contributions of the individuals who educate middle level students; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Middle Level Education Month by visiting and celebrating schools that are responsible for educating young adolescents in the United States.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 407 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES March 17, 2016 Mr. Enzi (for himself and Mr. Barrasso ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Congratulating the University of Wyoming men’s Nordic ski team for winning the 38 th annual United States Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association national championship.

Whereas, on March 12, 2016, the University of Wyoming men’s Nordic ski team won the 2016 United States Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association (referred to in this preamble as the USCSA ) national championship in Lake Placid, New York, by sweeping all 4 events; Whereas the University of Wyoming men’s Nordic ski team has won consecutive USCSA national titles; Whereas as members on the University of Wyoming Nordic ski teams, Will Timmons won the 2016 USCSA men’s individual title and Elise Sulser won the 2016 USCSA women’s individual title; Whereas the University of Wyoming men’s Nordic ski team placed 3 men among the top 10 overall individual finishers at the 2016 USCSA national event; Whereas co-head coaches Christi Boggs and Rachel Watson have successfully guided the University of Wyoming men’s and women’s Nordic ski teams to multiple USCSA national titles; Whereas the University of Wyoming men’s and women’s Nordic ski teams have each won 6 team USCSA national titles between 2003 and 2016: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) congratulates the University of Wyoming men’s Nordic ski team as the winner of the 2016 United States Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association national championship; (2) commends the athletes, coaches, parents, and staff of the University of Wyoming Nordic ski teams for their hard work and dedication; (3) recognizes the students, alumni, and loyal fans that supported the University of Wyoming men's Nordic ski team on the team's journey to win another national title; and (4) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate prepare an official copy of this resolution for presentation to— (A) the president of the University of Wyoming; (B) the athletic director of the University of Wyoming; and (C) the co-head coaches of the University of Wyoming Nordic ski teams.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 413 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 5, 2016 Mr. Burr (for himself, Mrs. Boxer , and Mr. Heller ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating April 5, 2016, as Gold Star Wives Day .

Whereas the Senate honors the sacrifices made by the spouses and families of the fallen members of the Armed Forces of the United States; Whereas Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. represents the spouses and families of the members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States who have died on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability; Whereas the primary mission of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. is to provide services, support, and friendship to the spouses of the fallen members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States; Whereas in 1945, Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. was organized with the help of Eleanor Roosevelt to assist the families left behind by the fallen members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States; Whereas the first meeting of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. was held on April 5, 1945; Whereas April 5, 2016, marks the 71st anniversary of the first meeting of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.; Whereas the members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States bear the burden of protecting the freedom of the people of the United States; and Whereas the sacrifices of the families of the fallen members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States should never be forgotten: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates April 5, 2016, as Gold Star Wives Day ; (2) honors and recognizes— (A) the contributions of the members of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.; and (B) the dedication of the members of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. to the members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe Gold Star Wives Day to promote awareness of— (A) the contributions and dedication of the members of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. to the members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States; and (B) the important role that Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. plays in the lives of the spouses and families of the fallen members and veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 415 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 6, 2016 Mr. Casey (for himself and Mr. Toomey ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Congratulating the 2016 national champions, the Villanova Wildcats, for their win in the 2016 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men's Basketball Tournament.

Whereas, on April 4, 2016, the Villanova Wildcats defeated the University of North Carolina Tar Heels by a score of 77 to 74 in the final game of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (referred to in this preamble as the NCAA ) Division I Men's Basketball Tournament in Houston, Texas; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats hold 2 national men's basketball titles for winning NCAA championships in 1985 and 2016; Whereas junior forward Kris Jenkins scored the last-second, game-winning 3-point shot; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats shot 58.2 percent from the field during the tournament, the highest percentage since the 64-team bracket was introduced in 1985; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats had the largest margin of victory in any Final Four game, beating the Oklahoma Sooners by 44 points; Whereas senior guard Ryan Arcidiacono was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2016 Final Four, averaging 15.5 points on 73-percent shooting in the 2 final games in Houston and providing the game-winning assist in the championship game; Whereas Jay Wright was named the Naismith Coach of the Year for the second time; Whereas during the 2015–2016 season, the Villanova Wildcats finished with a record of 35-5; and Whereas Villanova University is committed to the ideal of the student athlete and the education of the athletes of Villanova University, as evidenced by the presence of 5 seniors and 3 juniors on the roster of the Villanova Wildcats: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) congratulates and honors the Villanova University men’s basketball team and its loyal fans on the performance of the team in the 2016 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men's Basketball Tournament; and (2) recognizes and commends the hard work, dedication, determination, and commitment to excellence of the players, parents, families, coaches, and managers of the team.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 416 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 7, 2016 Mr. Schatz (for himself, Mr. Isakson , Ms. Hirono , and Mr. Perdue ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary May 25, 2016 Committee discharged; considered and agreed to with an amended preamble RESOLUTION Recognizing the contributions of Hawaii to the culinary heritage of the United States and designating the week beginning on June 12, 2016, as National Hawaiian Food Week .

Whereas when individuals first came to the Hawaiian islands more than 1,500 years ago, there was little to eat other than birds and a few species of ferns, but the individuals found rich volcanic soil, a year-round growing season, and abundant fisheries; Whereas the history of Hawaii is inextricably linked with— (1) foods brought to the Hawaiian islands by the first individuals who came to Hawaii and successive waves of voyagers to the Hawaiian islands; (2) the agricultural and ranching potential of the land of Hawaii; and (3) the readily available seafood from the ocean and coasts of Hawaii; Whereas the food cultures initially brought to Hawaii came from places including French Polynesia, China, Japan, Portugal, North Korea, South Korea, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Samoa; Whereas the foods first brought to Hawaii were simple, hearty fare of working men and women that reminded the men and women of their distant homes; Whereas individuals in Hawaii, in the spirit of Aloha, shared favorite dishes with each other, and as a result, the individuals began to appreciate new tastes and learned how to bring new ideas into their cooking; Whereas the blend of styles in Hawaiian cooking evolves as new groups of individuals make Hawaii their home; Whereas the fusion of dishes from around the world creates a unique cuisine for Hawaii that is as much a part of a visit to Hawaii as the welcoming climate, friendly individuals, and beautiful beaches in Hawaii; Whereas the food of Hawaii is appealing because it came from hard-working communities of individuals that farmed, fished, or ranched for their livelihoods, which are core experiences of individuals throughout the United States; and Whereas the growing appreciation for the food of Hawaii comes from hard-working and ingenious farmers, fishers, educators, ranchers, chefs, and businesses that innovate and export the taste of Hawaii all over the world: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning on June 12, 2016, as National Hawaiian Food Week ; and (2) recognizes the contributions of Hawaii to the culinary heritage of the United States.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 416 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 7, 2016 Mr. Schatz (for himself, Mr. Isakson , Ms. Hirono , and Mr. Perdue ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Recognizing the contributions of Hawaii to the culinary heritage of the United States and designating the week beginning on June 12, 2016, as National Hawaiian Food Week .

Whereas when individuals first came to the Hawaiian islands more than 1,500 years ago, there was little to eat other than birds and a few species of ferns, but the individuals found rich volcanic soil, a year-round growing season, and abundant fisheries; Whereas the history of Hawaii is inextricably linked with— (1) foods brought to the Hawaiian islands by the first individuals who came to Hawaii and successive waves of voyagers to the Hawaiian islands; (2) the agricultural and ranching potential of the land of Hawaii; and (3) the readily available seafood from the ocean and coasts of Hawaii; Whereas the food cultures initially brought to Hawaii came from places including French Polynesia, China, Japan, Portugal, North Korea, South Korea, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Samoa; Whereas the foods first brought to Hawaii were simple, hearty fare of working men and women that reminded the men and women of their distant homes; Whereas individuals in Hawaii, in the spirit of Aloha, shared favorite dishes with each other, and as a result, the individuals began to appreciate new tastes and learned how to bring new ideas into their cooking; Whereas the blend of styles in Hawaiian cooking evolves as new groups of individuals make Hawaii their home; Whereas the fusion of dishes from around the world creates a unique cuisine for Hawaii that is as much a part of a visit to Hawaii as the welcoming climate, friendly individuals, and beautiful beaches in Hawaii; Whereas the food of Hawaii is appealing because it came from hard-working communities of individuals that farmed, fished, or ranched for their livelihoods, which are core experiences of individuals throughout the United States; Whereas the growing appreciation for the food of Hawaii comes from hard-working and ingenious farmers, fishers, educators, ranchers, chefs, and businesses that innovate and export the taste of Hawaii all over the world; and Whereas, as the taste for the food of Hawaii spreads across the United States, individuals in Hawaii proudly welcome individuals in the State of Georgia to partner and bring the cuisine of the individuals home to new communities: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week beginning on June 12, 2016, as National Hawaiian Food Week ; and (2) recognizes the contributions of Hawaii to the culinary heritage of the United States.
III 114th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 417 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 11, 2016 Mrs. Fischer (for herself and Mr. Sasse ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Celebrating the 144th anniversary of Arbor Day.

Whereas Arbor Day was founded in Nebraska City, Nebraska on April 10, 1872, to recognize the importance of planting trees; Whereas it is estimated that on the first Arbor Day, more than 1,000,000 trees were planted in the State of Nebraska alone; Whereas Arbor Day is observed in all 50 States and across the world; Whereas participating in Arbor Day activities promotes civic participation and highlights the importance of planting and caring for trees and vegetation; Whereas those activities provide an opportunity to convey to future generations the value of land and stewardship; Whereas National Arbor Day is observed on the last Friday of April each year; and Whereas April 29, 2016, marks the 144th anniversary of Arbor Day: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes April 29, 2016, as National Arbor Day ; (2) celebrates the 144th anniversary of Arbor Day; (3) supports the goals and ideals of National Arbor Day; and (4) encourages the people of United States to participate in National Arbor Day activities.