hyperdemocracy/usc-textversion huggingface dataset:
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 468 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 16, 2018 Mr. Wyden (for himself, Mr. Portman , Mr. Alexander , Mr. Heinrich , Ms. Hirono , and Mr. Booker ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating May 19, 2018, as Kids to Parks Day .

Whereas the 8th annual Kids to Parks Day will be celebrated on May 19, 2018; Whereas the goal of Kids to Parks Day is to promote healthy outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship, empower young people, and encourage families to get outdoors and visit the parks and public land of the United States; Whereas on Kids to Parks Day, individuals from rural and urban areas of the United States can be reintroduced to the splendid national, State, and neighborhood parks located in their communities; Whereas communities across the United States offer a variety of natural resources and public land, often with free access, to individuals seeking outdoor recreation; Whereas the people of the United States, young and old, should be encouraged to lead more healthy and active lifestyles; Whereas Kids to Parks Day is an opportunity for families to take a break from their busy lives and come together for a day of active, wholesome fun; and Whereas Kids to Parks Day will broaden an appreciation for nature and the outdoors in young people, foster a safe setting for independent play and healthy adventure in neighborhood parks, and facilitate self-reliance while strengthening communities: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates May 19, 2018, as Kids to Parks Day ; (2) recognizes the importance of outdoor recreation and the preservation of open spaces to the health and education of the young people of the United States; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 469 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 16, 2018 Mr. Murphy submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Recognizing the historic, cultural, and religious significance of the festival of Vaisakhi, and expressing respect for all communities that celebrate Vaisakhi.

Whereas Vaisakhi has been celebrated in the Punjab region of South Asia for centuries and today is also celebrated in communities throughout India, in the United States, and around the world; Whereas Vaisakhi is an annual festival celebrating the spring harvest season; Whereas Vaisakhi is of particular significance to the Sikh religion and is one of the most important dates in Sikh history; Whereas, for Sikhs, Vaisakhi commemorates the creation of the Khalsa, a fellowship of devout Sikhs, by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699; and Whereas Vaisakhi celebrates community, prosperity, and continued progress in the year ahead: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes— (A) the historic, cultural, and religious significance of the festival of Vaisakhi; and (B) the significance of Vaisakhi to Sikh communities in the United States and around the world; and (2) expresses respect for all communities that celebrate Vaisakhi.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 470 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 17, 2018 Mr. Manchin submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources RESOLUTION Expressing the sense of the Senate that electricity markets do not appropriately value the reliability and resilience attributes of baseload power generation serving the bulk power system.

Whereas the power generation resource mix of the United States is rapidly changing, presenting ongoing challenges to ensuring that baseload units remain operational and provide enhanced resilience and reliability to the power grid of the United States; Whereas many baseload units are not appropriately valued for the resilience and reliability attributes those units provide to the power grid of the United States; Whereas accelerated retirements of coal-fired and nuclear baseload power generation resources are among those challenges, including how those resources are needed— (1) to provide dependable capacity to serve customers; (2) to support essential grid services, such as voltage and frequency support and ramping capability; (3) to offer high availability and reliability from significant on-site fuel storage; and (4) to support integration of new generation resources; and Whereas in Docket Numbers RM18–000–001 and AD18–7–001, and in other proceedings, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has compiled extensive evidence documenting the reliability and resilience attributes of all power generation resources: Now, therefore, be it

That it is the sense of the Senate that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should take action to ensure that the electricity markets fully recognize the reliability and resilience benefits of coal-fired and nuclear baseload power generation resources serving the bulk power system.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 472 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 17, 2018 Mr. Burr (for himself, Mr. Manchin , Mr. Inhofe , and Mr. Heller ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating April 5, 2018, 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, 2018, marks the 73rd 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, 2018, 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 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 477 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 19, 2018 Mr. Schumer submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Recognizing and celebrating the National Comedy Center being built at 203–217 West Second Street, Jamestown, New York.

Whereas the National Comedy Center is a civic landmark and cultural institution being built at 203–217 West Second Street, Jamestown, New York, and is inspired by the legacy of Jamestown native Lucille Ball; Whereas the mission of the National Comedy Center is to connect, inspire, educate and entertain all people of the United States; Whereas the National Comedy Center seeks to preserve, protect, and showcase the art of comedy in the United States in such a manner that it will fulfill its mission; Whereas the National Comedy Center will be the only museum of its kind that exists for the exclusive purpose of paying tribute to the art of comedy in the United States through all eras, mediums, and genres; Whereas the National Comedy Center will provide education of iconic comedy artists in the United States and their heritage, history and culture; Whereas the National Comedy Center will serve as— (1) a constant reminder that comedy is an integral part of the rich heritage of the United States; and (2) a beacon of the healing power of laughter; Whereas the National Comedy Center seeks to inspire the people of the United States to appreciate comedy as an art form and ensure that the important legacy of comedy is preserved forever; Whereas the National Comedy Center has received public and private funds to further aid the completion of its mission; Whereas the National Comedy Center will play a crucial role in the redevelopment and sustainability of the surrounding communities and economies by generating tourism and employment; and Whereas it is fitting and proper to recognize and celebrate the National Comedy Center: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate recognizes and celebrates the National Comedy Center being built at 203–217 West Second Street, Jamestown, New York.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 478 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 19, 2018 Mr. Daines (for himself, Mr. King , Ms. Hirono , Mr. Cotton , Mr. Whitehouse , Ms. Collins , Mr. Warner , Mr. Alexander , Mr. Brown , Mr. Wicker , Ms. Heitkamp , Mr. Cassidy , Mrs. Feinstein , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Reed , Mr. Gardner , Ms. Klobuchar , Mr. Barrasso , Ms. Stabenow , Mr. Boozman , Mr. Wyden , Mr. Portman , Mr. Manchin , Mr. Tillis , Mr. Sanders , Mrs. Capito , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Enzi , and Mr. Hoeven ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week of April 21, 2018, through April 29, 2018, as National Park Week .

Whereas, on March 1, 1872, Congress established Yellowstone National Park as the first national park for the enjoyment of the people of the United States; Whereas, on August 25, 1916, Congress established the National Park Service with the mission to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of current and future generations; Whereas the National Park Service continues to protect and manage the majestic landscapes, hallowed battlefields, and iconic cultural and historical sites of the United States; Whereas the units of the National Park System can be found in every State and many territories of the United States and many of the units embody the rich natural and cultural heritage of the United States, reflect a unique national story through people and places, and offer countless opportunities for recreation, volunteerism, cultural exchange, education, civic engagement, and exploration; Whereas the national parks of the United States attracted record-breaking visitation during the National Park Service Centennial, with over 330,000,000 recreational visits to these incredible places both in 2016 and 2017; Whereas visits and visitors to our national parks are important economic drivers for the economy responsible for $18,400,000,000 in spending in 2016; Whereas the dedicated employees of the National Park Service carry out their mission to protect the national parks of the United States so that the vibrant culture, diverse wildlife, and priceless resources of the parks will endure for perpetuity; and Whereas the people of the United States have inherited the remarkable legacy of the National Park System and are entrusted with the preservation of the National Park System throughout its second century: Now, therefore, be it

That Congress— (1) designates the week of April 21, 2018, through April 29, 2018, as National Park Week ; and (2) encourages the people of the United States and the world to visit and experience the treasured national parks of the United States.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 479 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 23, 2018 Ms. Heitkamp (for herself, Ms. Collins , and Ms. Warren ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating April 2018 as National Donate Life Month .

Whereas, in April 2018, more than 114,000 individuals in the United States were on the official national transplant waiting list (referred to in this preamble as the national transplant waiting list ) managed by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network; Whereas, in 2017, 34,770 transplant procedures were performed in the United States with organs from 10,286 deceased donors and 6,187 living donors, yet 6,081 candidates for transplantation died while waiting for an organ transplant; Whereas, on average, 20 people die each day in the United States while waiting for an organ donation; Whereas more than 138,000,000 people in the United States are registered to be organ and tissue donors, yet the demand for donated organs outweighs the supply of organs made available each day; Whereas, in 2017, a record was set for the number of organ transplants performed in a single year, yet every 10 minutes, 1 person is added to the national transplant waiting list; Whereas an organ donation from a single deceased donor can benefit up to 8 individuals; Whereas a living donor can donate a kidney or a portion of a lung or the liver to save the life of another individual; and Whereas April is traditionally recognized as National Donate Life Month : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates April 2018 as National Donate Life Month ; (2) supports the goals and ideals of National Donate Life Month; (3) supports promoting awareness of organ donation by increasing public awareness; (4) encourages States, localities, and territories of the United States to support the goals and ideals of National Donate Life Month by issuing a proclamation to designate April 2018 as National Donate Life Month ; (5) commends each individual who— (A) is a registered organ donor who may have a positive impact on the life of another individual; or (B) indicates a wish to become an organ donor; (6) acknowledges the grief of families who face the loss of loved ones and commends the families who, in their grief, choose to donate the organs of deceased family members; (7) recognizes the generous contribution made by each living individual who has donated an organ to save the life of another individual; (8) acknowledges the advances in medical technology that have enabled organ transplantation with organs donated by living individuals to become a viable treatment option for an increasing number of patients; (9) commends the medical professionals and organ transplantation experts who have worked to improve the process of living organ donation and increase the number of living donors; and (10) salutes each individual who has helped to give the gift of life by supporting, promoting, and encouraging organ donation.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 480 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 23, 2018 Mr. Blunt (for himself and Mrs. McCaskill ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of May 1, 2018, as Silver Star Service Banner Day .

Whereas the Senate has always honored the sacrifices made by the wounded and ill members of the Armed Forces; Whereas the Silver Star Service Banner has come to represent the members of the Armed Forces and veterans who were wounded or became ill in combat in the wars fought by the United States; Whereas the Silver Star Families of America was formed to help the people of the United States remember the sacrifices made by the wounded and ill members of the Armed Forces by designing and manufacturing Silver Star Service Banners and Silver Star Flags for that purpose; Whereas the sole mission of the Silver Star Families of America is to evoke memories of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and veterans on behalf of the United States through the presence of a Silver Star Service Banner in a window or a Silver Star Flag flying; Whereas the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces and veterans on behalf of the United States should never be forgotten; and Whereas May 1, 2018, is an appropriate date to designate as Silver Star Service Banner Day : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the designation of May 1, 2018, as Silver Star Service Banner Day ; and (2) calls upon the people of the United States to observe Silver Star Service Banner Day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 482 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 24, 2018 Mr. Casey (for himself and Mr. Toomey ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Congratulating the Villanova University Wildcats for winning the 2018 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Men's Basketball Tournament.

Whereas on April 2, 2018, the Villanova University Wildcats (referred to in this preamble as the Villanova Wildcats ) defeated the University of Michigan Wolverines by a score of 79–62 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 San Antonio, Texas; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats won the NCAA championship in 1985, 2016, and 2018; Whereas junior point guard Jalen Brunson was named the National Player of the Year after leading the Villanova Wildcats to a second NCAA championship in 3 seasons; Whereas redshirt sophomore guard Donte DiVincenzo was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player of 2018; Whereas the record of Donte DiVincenzo of 31 points, 10-for-15 shooting, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks will be remembered as one of the greatest individual title game performances in the history of the NCAA tournament; Whereas Donte DiVincenzo joins Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, and Jack Goose Givens as the only players that have scored 30 points and shot 66 percent or better from the field in an NCAA title game; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats made 18 3-point field goals in the national semifinal game against the University of Kansas, setting an NCAA tournament record; Whereas the Villanova Wildcats— (1) finished the 2017–2018 season with a record of 36–4; (2) have won 4 Big East men's basketball tournament titles; and (3) have won 3 national championships; 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 2 seniors and 5 juniors on the roster of the Villanova Wildcats: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) congratulates and honors the Villanova University Wildcats men's basketball team on the performance of the team in the 2018 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 Villanova University Wildcats.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 483 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 25, 2018 Mr. Whitehouse (for himself, Mr. Cassidy , Ms. Duckworth , Ms. Baldwin , Mrs. Shaheen , Ms. Hirono , Mr. Durbin , Ms. Hassan , Ms. Warren , Mrs. Feinstein , Mr. Markey , Mr. Coons , and Ms. Smith ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the contributions of senior volunteers and designating the week of April 29 through May 5, 2018, as National Senior Corps Week .

Whereas volunteers in the United States who are 55 years of age and older (referred to in this preamble as senior volunteers ) provide much-needed services to their communities, neighbors, and friends; Whereas Senior Corps, through the RSVP, Foster Grandparent, and Senior Companion programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, provides meaningful opportunities to 220,000 senior volunteers and recruits thousands of additional community volunteers; Whereas, for more than 5 decades, RSVP volunteers, Foster Grandparents, and Senior Companions have played an important role in strengthening communities by contributing their experience, knowledge, and accomplishments in order to— (1) help their neighbors recover from natural and manmade disasters; (2) provide nutrition services; (3) mentor and tutor schoolchildren; (4) support veterans and military families; and (5) provide respite care to caregivers; Whereas, in 2017, Senior Corps volunteers provided 54,000,000 hours of direct service through more than 25,000 nonprofit, educational, and faith-based community groups nationwide; Whereas structured volunteering by senior volunteers— (1) keeps those senior volunteers active, healthy, and engaged; (2) helps the United States by saving taxpayer dollars and reducing health care costs; and (3) supports the ability of seniors to live independent and productive lives; Whereas the RSVP, Foster Grandparent, and Senior Companion programs have proven to be cost-effective ways to engage senior volunteers in service that meets pressing community needs; Whereas the United States should expand senior volunteer service opportunities to take advantage of the talents and experiences of the 10,000 baby boomers who will retire each day for the next 20 years; and Whereas, at a time of mounting social need and growing interest in service by older individuals in the United States, the United States has an unprecedented opportunity to harness the talents of senior volunteers to address community challenges: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week of April 29 through May 5, 2018, as National Senior Corps Week ; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to recognize the contributions of senior volunteers and join in the celebration of National Senior Corps Week.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 484 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 25, 2018 Mr. Isakson (for himself and Ms. Stabenow ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Supporting the designation of April 2018 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month .

Whereas Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive neurological disease and is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States; Whereas there is inadequate data on the incidence and prevalence of Parkinson’s disease, but it is estimated to affect nearly 1,000,000 individuals in the United States, with that number expected to more than double by 2040; Whereas Parkinson’s disease is the 14th leading cause of death in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Whereas millions of individuals in the United States are caregivers, family members, and friends who are greatly impacted by Parkinson’s disease; Whereas research suggests the cause of Parkinson’s disease is a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but the exact cause in most individuals is still unknown; Whereas there is currently no objective test or biomarker to diagnose Parkinson’s disease; Whereas there is no known cure or drug to slow or halt the progression of Parkinson's disease, and available treatments are limited in their ability to address the medical needs of patients and remain effective over time; Whereas the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease vary from person to person and can include— (1) tremors; (2) slowness of movement and rigidity; (3) gait and balance difficulty; (4) speech and swallowing disturbances; (5) cognitive impairment and dementia; (6) mood disorders; and (7) a variety of other non-motor symptoms; Whereas volunteers, researchers, caregivers, and medical professionals are working to improve the quality of life of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families; and Whereas increased research, education, and community support services are needed to find more effective treatments and to provide access to quality care to those living with Parkinson's disease today: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates April 2018 as Parkinson’s Awareness Month ; (2) supports the goals and ideals of Parkinson’s Awareness Month; (3) continues to support research to find better treatments and a cure for Parkinson’s disease; (4) recognizes the individuals living with Parkinson’s disease who participate in vital clinical trials to advance the knowledge of the disease; and (5) commends the dedication of organizations, volunteers, researchers, and millions of individuals across the country working to improve the quality of life of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 491 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 26, 2018 Ms. Collins (for herself and Mr. King ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the Independent Transportation Network of America on the occasion of providing 1,000,000 rides to older and visually challenged people of the United States.

Whereas the number of people of the United States aged 65 and older is projected to more than double from 46,000,000 today to almost 100,000,000 by the year 2060, when people of the United States aged 65 or older will represent nearly a quarter of the total population of the United States; Whereas transportation is necessary for access to the basic necessities of life and most people of the United States outlive their decision to stop driving by more than a decade; Whereas 3 out of 4 older people in the United States live in rural and suburban communities that lack the density for traditional transportation solutions; Whereas the scarcity of transportation for older people of the United States leads to social isolation, diminishing quality of life, limited access to health care services, and a strain on families and caregivers; Whereas the Independent Transportation Network of America (referred to in this preamble as ITNAmerica ) is a nonprofit transportation network company that integrates social capital through volunteerism and local community support with traditional capital to increase the resources available to meet the mobility needs of older people, visually challenged people, and the families of older and visually challenged people; Whereas the average age of ITNAmerica riders is 84, and 58 percent of riders are 85 years and older; Whereas ITNAmerica has built Rides in Sight, a searchable, online database of all senior transportation services in the United States, with 15,000 services catalogued, and offers it to the public as a free service; and Whereas ITNAmerica has provided 1,000,000 rides to older and visually challenged people of the United States and, of those rides— (1) 40 percent were for the purpose of obtaining health care services; (2) 21 percent were for people who are visually challenged; and (3) 44 percent have been provided by volunteer drivers: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) congratulates the volunteers and staff of the Independent Transportation Network of America in communities across the United States for the 1,000,000 rides they have provided to older and visually challenged people, their families, and their communities; (2) recognizes the Independent Transportation Network of America as a nonprofit transportation network company that serves the common good and has helped people remain in their own homes and communities after they can no longer drive safely; and (3) anticipates many more millions of rides in the future as the Independent Transportation Network of America helps to meet the mobility needs of older and visually challenged people and the needs of small and rural communities across the United States.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 492 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 26, 2018 Mr. Thune (for himself, Mr. Nelson , Mrs. Fischer , and Mr. Peters ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Supporting the goals and ideals of National Safe Digging Month.

Whereas each year, the underground utility infrastructure of the United States, including pipelines, electric, gas, telecommunications, water, sewer, and cable television lines, is jeopardized by unintentional damage caused by those who fail to have underground lines located prior to digging; Whereas some utility lines are buried only a few inches underground, making the lines easy to strike, even during shallow digging projects; Whereas digging prior to locating underground utility lines often results in unintended consequences, such as service interruption, environmental damage, personal injury, and even death; Whereas the month of April marks the beginning of the peak period during which excavation projects are carried out around the United States; Whereas in 2002, Congress required the Department of Transportation and the Federal Communications Commission to establish a 3-digit, nationwide, toll-free number to be used by State One Call systems to provide information on underground utility lines; Whereas in 2005, the Federal Communications Commission designated 811 as the nationwide One Call number for homeowners and excavators to use to obtain information on underground utility lines before conducting excavation activities; Whereas the 1,700 members of the Common Ground Alliance, who are dedicated to ensuring public safety, environmental protection, and the integrity of services, promote the national Call Before You Dig campaign to increase public awareness about the importance of homeowners and excavators calling 811 to find out the exact location of underground lines; Whereas the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011 ( Public Law 112–90 ; 125 Stat. 1904) affirmed and expanded the One Call program by eliminating exemptions given to local and State government agencies and their contractors regarding notifying One Call centers before digging; and Whereas the Common Ground Alliance has designated April as National Safe Digging Month to increase awareness of safe digging practices across the United States and to celebrate the anniversary of 811, the national Call Before You Dig number: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Safe Digging Month; and (2) encourages all homeowners and excavators throughout the United States to call 811 before digging.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 497 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 26, 2018 Mr. Menendez (for himself, Mr. Cornyn , Mr. Bennet , Ms. Cortez Masto , Mr. Cruz , Mr. Durbin , Mr. Heinrich , Ms. Hirono , Mrs. Murray , Mr. Schumer , Ms. Smith , Mr. Udall , and Mr. Heller ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Cinco de Mayo holiday.

Whereas May 5, or Cinco de Mayo in Spanish, is celebrated each year as a date of importance by Mexican and Mexican-American communities; Whereas the Cinco de Mayo holiday commemorates May 5, 1862, the date on which Mexicans defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla, one of the many battles that the Mexican people won in their long and brave fight for independence, freedom, and democracy; Whereas the victory of Mexico over France at Puebla represented a historic triumph for the Mexican government during the Franco-Mexican war fought between 1861 and 1867 and bolstered the resistance movement; Whereas the success of Mexico at the Battle of Puebla reinvigorated the spirits of the Mexican people and provided a renewed sense of unity and strength; Whereas the French army, which had not experienced defeat against any of the finest troops of Europe in more than half a century, sustained a disastrous loss at the hands of an outnumbered and ill-equipped, but highly spirited and courageous, Mexican army; Whereas the courageous spirit that Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza and his men displayed during that historic battle can never be forgotten; Whereas, in a larger sense, Cinco de Mayo symbolizes the right of a free people to self-determination, just as Benito Juarez, the president of Mexico during the Battle of Puebla, once said, El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz , meaning respect for the rights of others is peace ; Whereas the sacrifice of Mexican fighters was instrumental in keeping Mexico from falling under European domination while, in the United States, the Union Army battled Confederate forces in the Civil War; Whereas Cinco de Mayo serves as a reminder that the foundation of the United States was built by people from many countries and diverse cultures who were willing to fight and die for freedom; Whereas Cinco de Mayo also serves as a reminder of the close ties between the people of Mexico and the people of the United States; Whereas Cinco de Mayo encourages the celebration of a legacy of strong leaders and a sense of vibrancy in communities; and Whereas Cinco de Mayo serves as a reminder to provide more opportunity for future generations: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) recognizes the historic struggle of the people of Mexico for independence and freedom, which Cinco de Mayo commemorates; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe Cinco de Mayo with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 498 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 26, 2018 Mr. Risch (for himself, Mr. Cardin , Mr. Inhofe , Mr. Coons , Mrs. Ernst , Ms. Hirono , Mr. Enzi , Mr. Kennedy , Mr. Rounds , Mr. Rubio , Mr. Young , Mrs. Shaheen , Ms. Duckworth , Mr. Booker , Mr. Scott , and Ms. Heitkamp ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Expressing support for the designation of the week of April 29 through May 5, 2018, as National Small Business Week while commending the entrepreneurial spirit of small business owners of the United States, and the impact they have on their communities.

Whereas 2018 marks the 55th anniversary of National Small Business Week ; Whereas there are nearly 30,000,000 small businesses in the United States; Whereas 2 of every 3 new jobs are created by small businesses; Whereas small businesses in the United States— (1) employ nearly 1/2 of the workforce in the United States; (2) comprise 99.7 percent of all employers in the United States; (3) employ veterans, as 9.1 percent of all small business owners served in the Armed Forces; (4) produce 1/3 of exported goods in the United States; and (5) account for nearly 1/2 of private sector output; Whereas, on July 30, 1953, Congress created the Small Business Administration to aid, counsel, assist, and protect the small business community; Whereas, in its 54 years of existence, the Small Business Administration has— (1) aided countless people in the United States in attaining their entrepreneurial dream; (2) preserved and advanced the interests of small businesses through advocacy; and (3) ensured fairness in the contracting process of the Federal Government; and Whereas the President designated the week of April 29 through May 5, 2018, as National Small Business Week : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) supports the designation of the week of April 29 through May 5, 2018, as National Small Business Week ; (2) celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of the small business owners of the United States; (3) understands the importance of creating a small business climate that allows for sustained, entrepreneurial success; (4) celebrates the invaluable contributions small businesses make to the United States as the backbone of the economy of the United States; and (5) supports increasing consumer awareness of the value and opportunity small businesses bring to their local communities.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 500 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES April 26, 2018 Mr. McConnell (for himself and Mr. Schumer ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION To authorize representation by the Senate Legal Counsel in the case of Peter P. Truman v. Paula Armstrong, et al.

Whereas, two Senate employees, Paula Armstrong and Edie Smith, have been named as defendants in the case of Peter P. Truman v. Paula Armstrong, et al. , D. Me., currently on appeal in the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit, No. 18–1095; and Whereas, pursuant to sections 703(a) and 704(a)(1) of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, 2 U.S.C. §§ 288b(a) and 288c(a)(1), the Senate may direct its counsel to defend employees of the Senate in civil actions relating to their official responsibilities: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate Legal Counsel is authorized to represent Paula Armstrong and Edie Smith in the case of Peter P. Truman v. Paula Armstrong, et al.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 504 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 10, 2018 Mr. Tester (for himself and Mr. Tillis ) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Designating May 11, 2018, as Military Spouse Appreciation Day.

Whereas the month of May marks National Military Appreciation Month; Whereas the Senate recognizes military spouses’ dedication of a lifetime of love, support, and patriotism that helps make the service and sacrifice of the men and women in the Armed Forces possible; Whereas military spouses have been separated from loved ones because of the duty of our Armed Forces to protect our Nation and its interests through deployment in support of overseas contingency operations and other military missions; Whereas the establishment of Military Spouse Appreciation Day honors the dedication and contributions of spouses of members of the Armed Forces; and Whereas, May 11, 2018, would be an appropriate date to establish as Military Spouse Appreciation Day : Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates May 11, 2018, as Military Spouse Appreciation Day ; (2) honors and recognizes the dedication and contributions made by spouses of members of the Armed Forces; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe Military Spouse Appreciation Day to promote awareness of the dedication and contributions of spouses of members of the Armed Forces and the importance of the role of military spouses in the lives of members of the Armed Forces and veterans.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 505 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 10, 2018 Ms. Collins (for herself, Mr. Brown , Mr. Boozman , Mr. Kennedy , Mr. Toomey , Mr. Daines , Mr. King , Mrs. Murray , Mrs. Capito , Mr. Carper , Ms. Hassan , Mr. Udall , Ms. Warren , Mr. Coons , Mrs. Feinstein , Ms. Baldwin , Mr. Wyden , Mr. Booker , Mr. Kaine , Mr. Donnelly , Mr. Durbin , Ms. Hirono , Mrs. Shaheen , Mr. Hoeven , Ms. Stabenow , Mr. Sanders , Mr. Blumenthal , Mr. Jones , Ms. Cortez Masto , Mr. Murphy , Mr. Blunt , Mr. Hatch , Ms. Duckworth , and Mrs. Hyde-Smith ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the roles and contributions of the teachers of the United States in building and enhancing the civic, cultural, and economic well-being of the United States.

Whereas education and knowledge are foundational to the current and future strength of the United States; Whereas teachers and other education staff have earned and deserve the respect of their students and communities for the selfless dedication of the teachers and staff to community service and the futures of the children of the United States; Whereas the purposes of National Teacher Appreciation Week, celebrated from May 7, 2018, through May 11, 2018, are— (1) to raise public awareness of the unquantifiable contributions of teachers; and (2) to promote greater respect and understanding for the teaching profession; and Whereas students, schools, communities, and a number of organizations representing educators are hosting teacher appreciation events in recognition of National Teacher Appreciation Week: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) thanks the teachers of the United States; and (2) promotes the profession of teaching by encouraging students, parents, school administrators, and public officials to participate in teacher appreciation events during National Teacher Appreciation Week.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 509 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 15, 2018 Mr. McConnell submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Providing for members on the part of the Senate of the Joint Committee on Printing and the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library.

That the following named Members be, and they are hereby, elected members of the following joint committees of Congress: Joint Committee on Printing: Mr. Blunt, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Wicker, Ms. Klobuchar, and Mr. Udall. Joint Committee of Congress on the Library: Mr. Blunt, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Shelby, Ms. Klobuchar, and Mr. Leahy.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 515 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 17, 2018 Mr. Cotton submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Honoring the 70th anniversary of the reactivation in 1948 of the 3d Infantry Regiment of the United States Army.

Whereas, the 3d Infantry Regiment of the United States Army (commonly known as the Old Guard ) (referred to in this preamble as the 3d Infantry Regiment )— (1) is the oldest active-duty infantry unit of the United States Army; and (2) has served the United States since 1784; Whereas the 3d Infantry Regiment— (1) is the escort to the President and official ceremonial unit of the United States Army; and (2) provides security for Washington, District of Columbia, in times of national emergency and civil disturbance; Whereas, in 1847, following the valorous performance of the 3d Infantry Regiment in the Mexican War, General Winfield Scott gave the unit the moniker of the Old Guard during a victory parade in Mexico City; Whereas the 3d Infantry Regiment has a long history of service, which spans from the Battle of Fallen Timbers to World War II and the Global War on Terrorism; Whereas, in its capacity as the official ceremonial unit of the United States Army, the 3d Infantry Regiment is responsible for conducting military ceremonies at the White House, the Pentagon, and national memorials, as well as elsewhere in the capital of the United States; Whereas a battalion of the 3d Infantry Regiment is stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Tacoma, Washington, and has been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan multiple times during the Global War on Terrorism; and Whereas soldiers of 3d Infantry Regiment— (1) maintain a 24-hour vigil at the Tomb of the Unknowns; (2) provide military funeral escorts at Arlington National Cemetery; (3) participate in parades at Fort Myer and Fort Lesley J. McNair; and (4) train and are deployed for missions of the United States Army around the world: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate honors the 70th anniversary of the reactivation in 1948 of the 3d Infantry Regiment of the United States.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 516 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 17, 2018 Ms. Klobuchar (for herself and Mr. Thune ) submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Designating the week of May 1 through May 7, 2018, as National Physical Education and Sport Week .

Whereas according to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition, overweight adolescents have a 70 percent chance of becoming overweight adults, and are at an increased risk for chronic disease, disability, and death; Whereas the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans of the Department of Health and Human Services recommend that children and adolescents engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day; Whereas according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention— (1) only 27 percent of high school students engage in 60 minutes a day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity; and (2) 14 percent of high school students do not engage in 60 or more minutes of any kind of physical activity; Whereas the people of the United States can work together to provide a supportive and active learning environment to prepare children and adolescents to lead healthy and physically active lives; and Whereas Congress strongly supports efforts to increase physical activity among youth and increase participation of youth in sports: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) designates the week of May 1 through May 7, 2018, as National Physical Education and Sport Week ; (2) recognizes the central role of physical education and sports in creating a healthy lifestyle for children and adolescents; and (3) encourages school districts— (A) to implement physical education programs and classes; (B) to provide professional development to educators relating to physical health and wellness; (C) to work with community partners to provide opportunities to children and adolescents for physical activities before and after school, and during the summer months; and (D) to promote district-wide mental and physical health and wellness.
III 115th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 518 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES May 21, 2018 Mr. Heller submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary RESOLUTION Reaffirming support for increased media diversity, recognizing May 2018 as National Media Diversity Month , and encouraging appreciation, awareness, and support for independent, diverse, and local media entities.

Whereas the principle that an informed and engaged electorate is critical to a vibrant democracy is deeply rooted in the laws of free speech in the United States and underpins the virtues on which the United States has established the Constitution of the United States and the tenets of citizenship, which are, as presented in the Preamble to the Constitution, We the people of the United States in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity ; Whereas an independent, diverse, and local media that provides exposure to a broad range of viewpoints and the ability to contribute to the political debate is central to sustaining that informed engagement by all citizens of the United States; Whereas varying media entities play a significant role in how constituents are exposed to news and discussions that impact the ability of constituents— (1) to learn about and debate local, State, and national issues central to the stability and security of the United States; and (2) to effectively monitor their representatives; Whereas Congress recognizes the central role of mass communication and encourages source, content, and audience diversity on the shared telecommunications and media platforms of the United States; Whereas encouraging diversity is important to the survival of small independent and diverse media outlets that serve diverse audiences and local media markets; Whereas, 50 years after the Kerner Commission issued its media diversity recommendations, challenges remain with underrepresentation in minority and rural populations in the media and participation in ownership and control of media decisionmaking, despite those populations comprising over 40 percent of the population of the United States; and Whereas small independent and diverse media outlets positively contribute to the sense of community in the United States and the goal of increasing local civic engagement and civic knowledge, such as by increasing voting levels, participation in civic groups, and knowledge of local political and civil information: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1) reaffirms the commitment of the Senate to diversity as a core tenet of the public interest standard in media policy; (2) pledges to work with media entities and diverse stakeholders to develop common-ground solutions to eliminate barriers to media diversity; and (3) establishes May 2018 as National Media Diversity Month , during which efforts are encouraged to promote media diversity appreciation and support.