mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Healthcare Legislation (Executive Session)
Jerry Moran (Republican, KS) \u2014 2017-5-25

I am here to visit about the topic of healthcare. I will be spending time in Kansas this week, and there probably will be no topic of conversation that will be greater than people's concerns about healthcare. I will tell you, as I have indicated to many of my colleagues, this is like no other issue I have ever dealt with as an elected official in how personal the consequences are of the decisions we make here. prgtoken While I certainly admit there is plenty of politics and partisanship and too much back and forth that revolves around this concern about healthcare, what I do know is, the people who visit with me, in so many instances, are my friends, my neighbors, our kids' teachers, they are people I go to church with, and in many instances, as they have a conversation with me about what we are going to do in regard to healthcare, tears begin to stream down their cheeks as they worry about themselves but, more importantly, they worry about their family members, their sons, daughters, husbands, wives, and parents. prgtoken This is a very personal issue. The concerns Kansans have about this and what we might do is sincere and real. I also know the Affordable Care Act--the law that is in existence today--is failing many Americans as well. In fact, just this week, yesterday, we learned the company Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City is exiting the market and will no longer provide a product in the Kansas City area of our State, which means, in most instances, individuals will no longer have an option in regard to the Affordable Care Act. prgtoken What we have in place doesn't work, but I also know what has come from the House isn't the solution to this problem either. The work we have to do--you and I, , and our colleagues--is serious and one that has real and personal consequences for every American, and we must take our responsibilities seriously. prgtoken I have indicated to my colleagues that neither the Affordable Care Act, which I voted against, nor what the House has passed, is anything I would vote for. I really wish we were doing something different than either one of those things. prgtoken As I thought about my remarks today, I was about to say that I suppose I came too late to get my ideas adopted by Congress, but really I came to this issue early, and I think it was 2004, maybe 2006, in which, at least in my own mind, I penned on paper and worked on drafting legislation on what I called a 10-point plan to address the affordability and availability of healthcare. prgtoken I can tell you that my ideas, which predate President 's, were nothing like the Affordable Care Act, and they really were nothing like the conversation we are having today. I wish we would be addressing the underlying reasons that healthcare costs so much rather than focusing so much attention on the issue of health insurance and its premiums. prgtoken If we can drive the things out of healthca
PROTECTING YOUNG VICTIMS FROM SEXUAL ABUSE ACT OF 2017
Luke Messer (Republican, IN) \u2014 2017-5-25

. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1973, which aims to strengthen protections against child victims of sexual abuse. prgtoken I am a parent. In fact, today, with me, I have my son, Hudson, and one of my daughters, Ava. prgtoken Sadly, over the course of the past couple of years, countless stories of young athletes being abused, including in Indiana, have revealed glaring inadequacies in our law. These stories, many about coaches and doctors and trainers and other adults who have abused their positions of authority and trust to exploit young athletes, are appalling and, as a parent, gut wrenching. Every one of these kids deserved better. prgtoken This bill aims to ensure that acts of suspected child abuse are promptly reported to an organization's national governing body to make sure that these cases are immediately disclosed to local or Federal law enforcement authorities. Short of this requirement being codified into law, predatory individuals can continue perpetrating horrific crimes against young athletes with relative impunity. prgtoken In addition, this bill requires national governing bodies to develop specific policies and procedures for reporting sexual abuse cases to law enforcement and to keep track of individuals who leave one facility due to complaints and then go to another facility to repeat that abuse elsewhere. prgtoken I want to thank my colleague from Indiana (Mrs. Brooks) for her important work on this legislation--she is my kids' second favorite Member of Congress--and for her hard work on this important bill to protect kids all across America from abuse. prgtoken I encourage my colleagues to support the bill.
NATIONAL EMS WEEK
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-5-25

this week we observe National EMS Week to celebrate, unify, and inspire the men and women of our Nation's emergency medical services. The theme this year is Always in Service, which recognizes our EMS professionals and their constant service to communities throughout this nation. prgtoken From a young age, children are taught that, in a moment of crisis, they call 911. From illness to injury, whenever the world seems to be ending, society counts on EMS personnel to be prgtoken there. They are expected to work hard and be strong, especially in times of trouble. prgtoken , as a volunteer firefighter, EMT, and a rescue technician with more than three decades of experience being on the front lines with these EMS professionals, I can personally attest to their dedication to saving lives. prgtoken The job of an EMS professional is not easy. It requires just as much compassion as it does courage. These men and women are committed to making the world better, so I say thank you. Thank you to the EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, and supervisors across the country. Thank you for serving. Happy National EMS Week.
HONORING STATEN ISLAND'S WORLD WAR II VETERANS
Daniel M. Donovan, Jr. (Republican, NY) \u2014 2017-5-25

on May 31, 2017, the North Central Kiwanis Club will host a dinner honoring Staten Island's World War II veterans. I rise today, , with immense gratitude for the patriotic sacrifice our WWII veterans gave to our country in its triumph over evil. After the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces on December 7, 1941--the ``date which will live in infamy,'' as President Roosevelt so eloquently stated--the United States declared war on the Axis Powers, joining the United Kingdom, Soviet Union, Free French Forces, and China in their fight against brutality, barbarity, and oppression. We owe our lives to the servicemen who, without a moment's hesitation, leapt to defend their country and the world from Nazism and fascism. Moreover, many even lied about their age just so they could join the fight. The world will never forget their valor and courage. Life. Democracy. Freedom. Many take these for granted. If not for the veterans of the Second World War, those values would simply be an impossible dream. In a speech to the House of Commons on August 20, 1940, Prime Minister Winston Churchill declared, ``Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.'' I cannot think of a better statement to describe what this nation owes to its WWII veterans. It is simply not possible to repay the insurmountable debt we owe to them I wish to provide my everlasting thanks to the men who answered their country's call in the moment when they were needed most. They are the saviors of our nation and for that, I salute them.
MEMORIAL DAY
Matt Gaetz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2017-5-25

I rise today to pay respect to the American warfighter. As we celebrate Military Appreciation Month, it is important to convey that the words we use to honor our brave men and women in uniform must be followed up by action. The time for paying artificial lip service to the military community is over. prgtoken Next month, the House Armed Services Committee will initiate its annual markup of the National Defense Authorization Act. The NDAA is one of the few things in Washington that actually works. The NDAA has been passed--with bipartisan support--for the last 56 years. prgtoken But this year's NDAA might be the most important yet. For the last eight years, our military has been degraded, defunded, and disgraced by the previous administration's attempt to lead from behind. Today, the United States military lacks the requisite personnel and material readiness required to protect our nation against unforeseen and near- peer adversaries. prgtoken Our nation faces a litany of global threats from North Korea and Syria, to the Islamic State and Iran. Failed states and trans-national fundamentalist regimes that want nothing more than to destroy democracy and the American spirit. The United States military is America's front line defense against the plague of radical Islamic terrorism and demagogues. prgtoken There is no other way to say it. Our military is broken. Consider the following: prgtoken The Navy is in its smallest state in 99 years, and faces increased demand with limited resources (274 ships). prgtoken Moreover, the Navy can only satisfy 40% of all Combatant Commander requests due to high operational tempo and lengthy maintenance periods prgtoken 50% of the civilian workforce working in Navy shipyards have less than five years of experience, and such inexperience impacts the on- time delivery of new ships, and increases the cost of the American taxpayer prgtoken Prior to 1992, the Air Force purchased about 200 fighter aircraft per year; today the Air Force buys less than 20; that is a 90 percent reduction of new fighter aircraft prgtoken And of the 58 Army Brigades stationed around the world, only three-- three--are prepared to fight in an armed conflict tonight, meaning they require no additional training, manpower, or equipment prgtoken I am honored to serve as the elected representatives of one of the largest military districts in America. No district in this entire country has more military retirees, military veterans, and military dependents than Northwest Florida. prgtoken Few districts can lay claim to Northwest Florida's operational and training footprint. My district is home to the Army's 7th Special Forces Group; the Air Force Special Operations Command; The Joint Gulf Range Complex which provides supersonic air combat training and hypersonic weapons testing for frontline warfighters like the F-35 and the F-22; and Pensacola Naval Air Station, the cradle of Naval Aviation. prgtoken But the time for honori
HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF CAPTAIN JON D. PEPPETTI, JUDGE ADVOCATE GENERAL'S CORPS, U.S. NAVY
Keith J. Rothfus (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-5-25

I rise today to honor Captain Jon D. Peppetti, who is retiring after 22 years of service to our nation with the Judge Advocate General's Corps in the United States Navy. Captain Peppetti was born in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, grew up primarily in Cresson, Pennsylvania, and attended Bishop Carroll High School in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Notre Dame in May 1992. He later earned a J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, and an LL.M. in International and Comparative Law from the George Washington University Law School. In 1995, Captain Peppetti began his dedicated service to our nation as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy. During the next 22 years, Captain Peppetti served in a wide variety of roles throughout the United States and overseas. His assignments included Naval Legal Service Office Southeast; Navy Recruiting Command; Amphibious Group Three; Naval Legal Service Office Europe and Southwest Asia; Amphibious Squadron Four deployed onboard USS Wasp (LHD 1); Carrier Strike Group Twelve deployed onboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65); Navy Office of Legislative Affairs; U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet; and Naval Supply Systems Command. He also served as Deputy Executive Assistant to the Judge Advocate General of the Navy, and as a White House Social Aide in support of the President and First Lady. He concluded his career as Legal Counsel to the Chief of Naval Personnel. Captain Peppetti's expertise and understanding of the complexities of the law of the sea and the law of armed conflict directly enhanced the ability of the U.S. Navy to fulfill its missions throughout the world. As the U.S. Navy confronted myriad diverse challenges, he delivered sage counsel to senior leaders and warfighters that facilitated our nation's ability to conduct naval operations. His profound knowledge and experience greatly contributed to our national security. For his outstanding service to our nation, Captain Peppetti earned numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal. I commend Captain Peppetti for his commitment to our country and the sacrifices he made on its behalf. On the occasion of his retirement from the U.S. Navy, I thank him and his family for his honorable service to our nation and wish him fair winds and following seas as he concludes a distinguished career.
TRIBUTE TO JOSEPH SCHARTZ
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2017-5-25

today I recognize Joseph Schartz, an intern in my Washington, DC office for all of the hard work he has done for me, my staff, and the State of South Dakota. prgtoken Joseph is a graduate of South Dakota State University in Brookings, SD, having earned a degree in journalism. Currently, he is attending the Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy, where he is pursuing his master's in public policy. Joseph is a dedicated worker who has been committed to getting the most out of his experience. prgtoken I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to Joseph Schartz for all of the fine work he has done and wish him continued success in the years to come.
IN RECOGNITION OF DR. THOMAS C. PLEGER
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2017-5-25

it's my honor to acknowledge the life of a devoted community leader and dedicated educator, Dr. Thomas Pleger, who passed away at the age of 48 on Sunday, May 7, 2017. prgtoken Thomas was born on April 24, 1969, to Ernest and Barbara Pleger, and grew up just across the border from Menominee, Michigan in Marinette, Wisconsin. He earned his doctoral degree in archaeology and anthropology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and spent 21 years teaching at various private and public institutions throughout the region. Following his tenure as Campus Executive Officer and Dean at UW Baraboo-Sauk County, Thomas followed his passion for education into the Upper Peninsula where, on July 1, 2014, he became the eighth president of Lake Superior State University, a position he would hold until his untimely passing. prgtoken As the president of Lake Superior State University, Thomas is remembered for his warmth, generosity, and tireless devotion to the school and its students. Lake Superior State University experienced a tremendous period of growth under Dr. Pleger's stewardship, including the implementation of a One Rate tuition plan, the financial restructuring of the university, the advancement of the R.W. Considine Hall Renovation project, and the procurement of funding for the proposed Center for Freshwater Research and Education. These accomplishments eventually led to him earning an appointment to Governor Rick Snyder's 21st Century Economy Commission, where he applied his extensive background in education to identify Michigan's economic priorities for the next 20 years. prgtoken Beyond the campus, Dr. Pleger's leadership translated into real results for his community. Indeed, it was not uncommon for Thomas to lend a listening ear or life advice to prospective students, and he was known to connect on a personal level, with a lighthearted sense of humor. Today, Dr. Pleger is survived by his wife, Teresa, father, Ernest, brother, Tim, sons Matt, Andrew, Chad, and Collin, and his sister, Amy Pfister. Not only will Lake Superior State University bear the positive impact of Dr. Pleger for generations to come, but communities around the country will benefit from the countless lives he touched. prgtoken , Dr. Pleger's outstanding career in education cannot be overstated, and his family and community can take great pride in knowing that the Upper Peninsula is a better place thanks to his life's work. On behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in recognizing an outstanding public servant whose contributions will continue to bless Yoopers for many years to come.
CARLYLE LAKE 50TH ANNIVERSARY
John Shimkus (Republican, IL) \u2014 2017-5-25

I rise today to acknowledge the 50th Anniversary of Carlyle Lake in Clinton County in my home state of Illinois. prgtoken The thought of Carlyle Lake was created due to the extreme flooding caused by the Kaskaskia River. A group of men residing in the area decided to create the Kaskaskia River Valley Project in 1933. This project then led to the idea of a man-made lake. The Flood Control Act of 1938 granted authorization for the construction of what eventually became Carlyle Lake. Due to the commencement of World War II the original construction plan was put to a halt. prgtoken In 1950, after the war subsided, attorney Eldon E. Hazlet took interest in the construction of the lake. He formed the Kaskaskia Valley Association, whose member's sole purpose was to convince the public for the need of a lake. After gaining enough public support, the Army Corps of Engineers made a revised plan of construction for the lake. Twenty years after the date of the original authorization; the Federal government signed off on the construction of Carlyle Lake in 1958. The Carlyle Lake Project was completed in April 1967, and the dam was dedicated in June of the same year. prgtoken Over the years Carlyle Lake has become a popular attraction for those in the area as well as for tourists. Visitors can enjoy the scenery, lie on the beach, or rent a boat out to coast on the water. The creation of this lake has allowed the economy to prosper. It has also led to the creation of the Eldon Hazlet State Park; they named this park after him because of his leadership in the advancement of Carlyle Lake. Tourists and townspeople can fish, camp, and hike in this state park. prgtoken The City of Carlyle has planned a celebration of the Lakes' 50th year. The celebration will begin on June 9th and go through the 11th. Throughout the weekend visitors can enjoy a carnival, music festival, vintage car show, and much more. The weekend will come to a close with a commemoration ceremony for Carlyle Lake. prgtoken I ask that we all join in that celebration as we pay tribute to the history and the people who made Carlyle Lake. I salute Carlyle Lake on its 50th Anniversary.
IN RECOGNITION OF COLLEEN CLARE GALLAGHER
Patrick Meehan (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-5-25

I rise today to thank and pay tribute to a long-time member of my team. Colleen Clare Gallagher first joined my team during my first campaign for Congress, back in 2010. She was an intern then, but she quickly proved her value and is today our Director of Operations, critically important to every aspect of our office's operations and our team's success. Colleen grew up in the 7th District. Her parents had seven daughters and raised them all in Havertown, Delaware County. More important than her professional talent and ability, to me and my entire team she's become a valued and trusted friend, colleague, and leader in the coming weeks Colleen will be departing my office to embark upon a new chapter in her life. I wish her continued happiness and success for the future.
Introductory Statement on S. 1237
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2017-5-25

I rise today to introduce, along with Senator Franken, the Family Farmer Bankruptcy Clarification Act of 2017. I thank Senator Franken for supporting and working with me, since the 112th Congress, on this important bill to help our Nation's family farmers. prgtoken This bipartisan bill addresses the 2012 United States Supreme Court case Hall v. United States. In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court ruled a provision that I authored in the 2005 Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act did not accomplish what we in Congress intended. The Family Farmer Bankruptcy Clarification Act of 2017 corrects this unfortunate result and restores Congress's original intent. The bill clarifies that bankrupt family farmers reorganizing their debts, under chapter 12 of the bankruptcy code, may treat capital gains taxes owed to the government, arising from the sale of farm assets during the bankruptcy, as general unsecured claims. This bill will give family farmers a chance to reorganize successfully and remove the Internal Revenue Service's veto power over a plan's confirmation. prgtoken Congress created chapter 12 in 1986 as a temporary measure to provide a specialized bankruptcy process for family farmers. In 2005, Congress made chapter 12 a permanent part of the bankruptcy code. Between 1986 and 2005, we learned what worked and did not work for family farmers reorganizing under chapter 12. In particular, family farmers faced serious problems when they needed to sell land to fund their reorganization plan. For example, a family farmer might sell portions of the farm in order to generate cash and pay creditors. Unfortunately, in most of these cases, the family farmer is selling land with a low cost basis, because it has likely been held in the family for a very long time. As a result, the family farmer gets hit with a substantial capital gains tax, which is owed to the Internal Revenue Service. prgtoken Under the bankruptcy code's priorities structure for claims, taxes owed to the IRS must be paid in full, unless the IRS agrees otherwise. This creates problems for the family farmer who needs cash to pay creditors and reorganize. Since the IRS has the ability to require full payment, it essentially holds veto power over the confirmation of a family farmer's chapter 12 plan. In many instances, the effect is that a family farmer will not be able to have a plan confirmed. This is a harsh result and does not make sense if the goal is to give family farmers a fresh start. Recognizing this problem, Congress amended the bankruptcy code in 2005 to provide that in these limited and particular situations, the taxes owed to the IRS would be stripped of their priority and treated as general unsecured debt. This removed the government's veto power over plan confirmation and paved the way for family farmers to reorganize under chapter 12. prgtoken Unfortunately, in Hall v. United States, the Supreme Court ruled t