mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Introductory Statement on S. 2357
Dianne Feinstein (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-7-15

I rise today to introduce the ``Fighting Homelessness with Services and Housing Act,'' which would establish a new Federal grant program to increase support for comprehensive services paired with housing to address our Nation's current homelessness crisis. prgtoken As we have seen with the growing diversity of our homeless populations--families with children, veterans, individuals with mental health conditions and struggling with addiction, people who simply could not keep up with increases in rent--our Nation's homelessness crisis is not going to simply resolve itself on its own. prgtoken According to the most recent data available from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, there are more than 580,000 homeless individuals and families in the United States. More than 25 percent of this population is in California, with approximately 161,548 homeless people sleeping on the streets on any given night. prgtoken In a Nation as prosperous as ours, we can and we must do better, especially as we address this crisis in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. Our city, County, State, and Federal governments must work hand-in-hand with the non-profit and private sectors to establish collaborative efforts to significantly address the issue of homelessness. prgtoken The good news is that we have seen a model that works: supportive housing, which helps meet homeless individuals and families where they are. This approach can help stabilize an individual or family and change their life. Supportive services such as mental and physical health care, substance abuse prgtoken treatment, education and job training, and life skills such as financial literacy are critical components. Paired with intensive case management, supportive housing models make a difference. prgtoken One success story is the Downtown Women's Center in Los Angeles. This shelter allows homeless and formerly homeless women to transform their lives through a combination of permanent, supportive housing and workforce development. This would not be possible without the Center's partnerships with the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles County Department of Health, and other critical stakeholders. I've visited the Center and encourage my colleagues to do the same to see why this model works. prgtoken It is imperative that we support State and local efforts, as well as nonprofit service providers, as they work to get people into housing to both mitigate the spread of the coronavirus and address their long-term needs. prgtoken Without a doubt, it will take a significant investment to solve the current homelessness crisis. That is why I am introducing the ``Fighting Homelessness with Services and Housing Act,'' which would authorize a new Federal funding stream of $1 billion per year, subject to annual appropriations. Grantees must serve individuals or families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless by providing housing paire
Nomination of Tiffany P. Cunningham (Executive Session)
Kirsten E. Gillibrand (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2021-7-15

I rise again today to call for every Senator to have the opportunity to cast their vote on the Military Justice Improvement and Increasing Prevention Act. prgtoken It is time for us to look at this issue to move serious crimes like sexual assault and murder out of the chain of command and put them in the hands of well-trained military prosecutors who are independent, impartial, and highly trained uniformed prosecutors. prgtoken This is an issue that deserves urgency. I began calling for this full floor vote on May 24. Since then, it is an estimate that 2,912 servicemembers will have been raped or sexually assaulted during that time; more will have been victims of other serious crimes. Many will not even report these crimes because they have no faith in the current system, where decisions about whether to prosecute are made by commanders and not trained lawyers. And yet this vote continues to be delayed and denied, week after week. prgtoken While I am glad to see that more of our colleagues have acknowledged that we must move sexual assault out of the chain of command, it is not enough. It doesn't address the fundamental flaw in the military justice system, which is that it asks commanders to act as judge and jury in highly complex crimes that they are not trained to do. prgtoken In fact, the training commanders get includes just a few hours, at the most, on legal topics like military justice and unlawful command influence. No one could be expected to learn in a few hours what it takes lawyers years of study and decades of experience to master. prgtoken That is why this bill would move serious crimes to the purview of those lawyers who have had the time to properly prepare for the job. prgtoken Today, I would like to outline exactly which crimes this bill would move out of the chain of command. Opponents have tried to misrepresent these crimes the bill addresses. It does not, for example, deal with larceny under $1,000 or destruction of government property. Those crimes would stay with the commander. prgtoken The bill includes a finite list of crimes. I will read them all now: recruit maltreatment, nonconsensual distribution of visual images, murder, manslaughter, murder of a pregnant mother, child endangerment, sexual assault, obscene mailing, sexual assault of a child, voyeurism, major financial crimes, major fraud, robbery, bribery, graft, kidnapping, arson, extortion, aggravated sexual assault, maiming, domestic violence, stalking, perjury, obstruction of justice, and retaliation. prgtoken That is it. That is the list. Those are crimes that have punishment of more than 1 year associated with them. prgtoken I ask those who oppose this reform to tell me why they would expect a commander with as little as a few hours of training to be prepared to try cases on obscene mailing or to be well versed on the elements of extortion. Tell me about the commander who understands the intricacies of using false d
INTRODUCTIONS OF THE GRANT RESIDENCY FOR ADDITIONAL DOCTORS ACT OF 2021
Grace Meng (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to announce the introduction of the Grant Residency for Additional Doctors, or GRAD, Act of 2021 which would address the lengthy processing delays for J-1 visas, which is the temporary nonimmigrant visa that international medical students and physicians use to work in U.S. based residency programs. prgtoken The United States is anticipated to face a shortage of physicians that ranges from between 54,100 and 139,000 in the next 12 years. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to magnify these shortages as primary care physicians and specialists experience burnout related to the pandemic. Foreign medical students frequently fill critical positions in hospitals that service underserved and rural communities. prgtoken Madam , my GRAD Act of 2021 would direct the Department of State to establish a position from March through June, the busiest months for school applications, whose sole purpose is to address J-1 visa applications with the intention of receiving graduate medical education or training. prgtoken Madam , the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how crucial it is that our medical infrastructure has the personnel necessary to handle a public health crisis. Our healthcare system cannot operate if it is facing a physician shortage.
THANKING THE OFFICE OF EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE TEAM FOR THEIR DEDICATED SERVICE FOLLOWING THE JANUARY 6, 2021 CAPITOL ATTACK
Zoe Lofgren (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to acknowledge and thank the immediate and extended staff of the Office of Employee Assistance (OEA) at the United States prgtoken House of Representatives for their tireless service to the House, the United States Capitol Police, and Congressional Budget Office following the violent attack on our Capitol on January 6, 2021. prgtoken Through exemplary dedication, passion, and commitment to their profession, the team has developed the OEA into a preeminent employee assistance program over three decades, delivering comprehensive confidential services covering an array of personal and work-related issues to positively impact employee performance, productivity, and well-being. prgtoken The team's commitment and care has offered comfort and coping tools to those experiencing profound grief and distress after the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. These services included one-to-one crisis consultation, confidential counseling, debriefings on trauma and resilience, discussion group facilitation, and the development and dissemination of self-help material containing practical strategies to promote recovery. prgtoken Additionally, the OEA promptly secured and coordinated additional counseling assets for their appointment-based services as well as for the ongoing, around-the-clock crisis support efforts that would remain available to Capitol Police personnel in the weeks and months that followed. prgtoken Through in-person, telephonic, and video meetings and seminars, the OEA interacted with thousands of employees and family members in the first half of 2021 alone, far surpassing past utilization trends. Employee engagement in all their services has been unprecedented--as have been the needs--yet the staff of the OEA has never flinched. prgtoken The dedicated team provided impactful work not only through an extraordinary volume of interactions with individuals, but through regular training and briefing facilitation across the House, on-call responses after-hours, and ongoing efforts to promote the services throughout the House and the Capitol Police communities. All the while, the team maintained the resolve and perspective to effectively help others while processing their own attack-and-pandemic-related concerns as employees of this institution. prgtoken Madam , I am pleased to acknowledge the entire Office of Employee Assistance and Well-Being teams who served throughout this tremendous support effort: Tiara Anderson, Breanna Becker, Briana Cragwell, Georgeanna Goldstein, Margot Hawkins-Green, Rhonda Kaalund, Malia Klee, Liz McBride, Jon Murphy, Emily Swartz, Paul Tewksbury, and Brian Weiss. Also worthy of our thanks are the contracted counseling partners. These special groups of professionals should all be commended for their commitment, dedication, and professionalism during a time of great need. prgtoken Madam , it is my distinct honor to recognize and thank the Office of Employee Assista
HONORING BRAD AND CAROL WHITMORE AS IOWANS OF THE WEEK
Cynthia Axne (Democrat, IA) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Brad and Carol Whitmore, two remarkable veterans, as Iowans of the Week. Over the Fourth of July weekend, I couldn't think of better honorees than two individuals who not only served our country for many years but have since continued their service to the country by doing incredible work to support and advocate for fellow veterans. prgtoken Carol Whitmore served in the U.S. Army, and has been honored with over 20 medals, ribbons, and badges from her 36 years of service. Following her service, Carol earned a Gold Legacy Life membership with the VFW Post 9127 in Des Moines. She has served in many leadership roles, ranging from the Post, District, and Department levels to the National stage. Carol is a member of the Governor's Veterans Council and sits on the National Council as a representative for the Iowa VFW. As a legislative advocate on both local and national levels, she continues to fight for veteran's rights. prgtoken Carol is particularly passionate about women's issues and helping homeless veterans at the Des Moines Homeless Shelter. When asked what she is especially proud of, Carol mentioned becoming a State Commander for the VFW and working with homeless veterans in the state. prgtoken Brad Whitmore, a native of Des Moines, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1970 and volunteered to go to Vietnam a year later. He then served one tour and volunteered again for a second tour, then received an Honorable Discharge from the Army in 1976. Brad reenlisted in the Army Reserve in 1988 and found employment in the civilian world as a surgical tech, later earning an associate degree from Des Moines Area Community College for Nursing in 1994. The same year, Brad changed his civilian job to become a surgical nurse and was promoted to Second Lieutenant in the Army. In 1999, he and Carol married, and Brad retired in 2005 after 26 years of service. prgtoken After his retirement, Brad was elected Quarter Master of his VFW post in Beaverdale in 2012 and was elected four years later as Quarter Master of Iowa's 5th District. Brad became Chairman of Iowa's National Legislative Committee, and he continues to do legislative work raising awareness about veteran's issues on the national level. His current project is working on the Richard Starr Act, which aims to protect medically discharged veterans. Brad said he is most proud of supporting his wife and admires all that she does to improve the lives of veterans. prgtoken I want to thank the Whitmores not only for the years they served in the Army, but for all the work they continue to do, and for the time they have dedicated to helping veterans. I am inspired by Brad and Carol's stories, and I am committed to supporting our nation's veterans, just as they both are. It is my pleasure to recognize Brad and Carol Whitmore as Iowans of the Week.
HAZEL ERBY
Cori Bush (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , it is with a heavy heart that Saint Louis and I rise to commemorate the life of councilwoman Hazel Erby. prgtoken There are no words that can truly encapsulate what Hazel Erby meant to the St. Louis region. She was a true personification of a public servant. She served with grace, class, integrity, and most importantly from a deep place in her heart--a place that was filled with love for her community. That love was always evidenced by the vigor, passion, and unrelenting disposition she would approach her work with. She was a community icon and a legislative trailblazer, unafraid of going where others would not venture to go and speaking when many stayed silent. During my run for office, she maintained her love and support of me and she was a bedrock of encouragement when I needed it most. I faced so many obstacles throughout my political journey and her unyielding support and encouragement to both me and my staff will be etched in my heart forever. Hazel Erby was driven by doing what's right for all people, starting with those among us who have the least because she clearly understood that's what matters. ``Mama Hazel'' 's legacy will be felt for years to come as it is in the work she accomplished and all of the lives she touched. She was deeply committed to equity in government funding and was instrumental in establishing legislation that outlined standards and requirements for minority participation in government contracts. She also played a key role in securing funds for a recreation center in St. Louis County. Hazel Erby had a vision for St. Louis County, and she worked tirelessly on and off platforms and stages to see that vision become a reality. prgtoken We are deeply saddened by the loss of this community giant, and I, like the rest of my community, am mourning her death. That said, I take great comfort and joy in the fact that she is left this world with an empty cup because she's poured so much of herself out for the betterment of our world. I'd say there is no better way to live. We are no doubt indebted to her for the service she's paid to our community. prgtoken I thank Hazel Erby.
HONORING COLONEL ANDREW J. SHORT
Tim Ryan (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and thank Colonel Andrew J. ``Coby'' Short, who is relinquishing his command of the Pittsburgh District of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where he has served since 2018. Colonel Short came to the Pittsburgh District of the Army Corps, following an assignment at the U.S. Army War College. Colonel Short is a native of Bedford, Indiana. Following his graduation from the U.S. Army Military Academy with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Systems Engineering, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1997. prgtoken He also holds a Master of Science Degree in Engineering Management from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, a Master of Science Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Virginia, a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University and a Master of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College. He is also a graduate of the Army Command and General Staff College, Combined Arms Service Staff School, Engineer Captain's Career Course, and the Engineer Officer Basic Course. prgtoken His first duty station was Fort Campbell, KY where he served as a Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer and Assistant Operations Officer in 326th Engineer Battalion, 101st Airborne Division. While there, he deployed to Kosovo with 1-187 Infantry Battalion. Colonel Short was then assigned to the 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, NY as the Assistant Operations Officer for 41st Engineer Battalion and then commanded Alpha Company, 41st Engineer Battalion; later Alpha Company, 1st Brigade Special Troops Battalion. During his time in command, he deployed to Afghanistan with 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division. After command, Colonel Short served as the Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General, 10th Mountain Division. He next served as a Project Engineer at Langley Air Force Base, VA with the Norfolk District, United States Army Corps of Engineers. He was subsequently assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg where he deployed to Afghanistan as part of CJTF-82 and served as the Deputy Division Engineer. He then served consecutively as Operations Officer of 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion in 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, Operations Officer of the 20th Engineer Brigade, and Executive Officer of the 20th Engineer Brigade. Colonel Short then served as the Executive Officer to the Deputy Commanding General of FORSCOM. Most recently, he commanded the 91st Engineer Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood for 31 months where he deployed to both Eastern Europe as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve and to the Republic of Korea. prgtoken Colonel Short has been awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Joint Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, and other awards and decorations. He has earned the Ranger Tab, Sapper Tab, Combat Action Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and
OCCASION OF CENTENNIAL OF THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT
Ed Case (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , last Friday, my colleague, Congressman Kaiali`i Kahele (Hawaii--Second), and I gathered here on Capitol Hill with leaders of our Native Hawaiian community and partners in the advancement of Native Hawaiians everywhere to recognize the centennial of the enactment, on July 9, 1921, of a truly revolutionary law, the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, to honor the times and memory of its author, Hawaii Delegate to Congress Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalani`anaole, and to reflect on and commit to the path still ahead. prgtoken That afternoon, we came together on the East grounds of the Capitol, directly outside the House chamber where Kuhio served for almost two decades, to share our mana'o (thoughts) on this momentous day. I would like to share here my own remarks on behalf of all throughout our Hawaii who I am privileged to represent: To my colleague and friend, Congressman Kahele, our incredible guests that are here with us today, and our friends and `ohana watching everywhere, Aloha. As I stand with you today, I have so many conflicting thoughts and emotions. We are here on hallowed grounds that for centuries now have stood for the very best of humanity, and yet we are also on ground that at a bare minimum tolerated the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. We are on grounds that have advanced equality, opportunity, compassion and justice, and yet have sanctioned so much trial and tragedy for our indigenous peoples. We are on grounds where just one year ago, we gathered to bid aloha to one of the great icons of the civil rights movement, my colleague John Lewis, and yet it is this very ground from which was launched an attack on our Capitol and democracy by our own fellow citizens. This land is riddled with contradictions. As it was when Prince Kuhio came to Congress as the first Native Hawaiian to serve almost 120 years ago. Kuhio spoke then of the urgency and despair of a people facing extinction in their own land. That was no idle concern. It had in fact happened to other indigenous peoples throughout our country and world; their peoples and cultures are simply no more. There were then just perhaps 40,000 Native Hawaiians. The life expectancy of Native Hawaiians was but thirty years. They were increasingly not living on the land as had dozens of generations before them, but in the tenements of Honolulu in dire circumstances. And yet, Kuhio entrusted his people to this still-new country, a country of promise but that had not shown it was deserving of that trust. And he devoted his next two decades toward advancing his people and to prove that his trust had not been misplaced. As Congressman Kahele has said, the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, signed one hundred years ago today, was his singular accompli
HONORING SERGEANT PETER KOEPP, SERGEANT MARK LAINO, OFFICER CHRISTOPHER WATKINS, AND OFFICER BOBBY MEIS UPON RECEIVING THE CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL OF BRAVERY
Elaine G. Luria (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2021-7-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Sergeant Peter Koepp, Sergeant Mark Laino, Officer Christopher Watkins, and Officer Bobby Meis of the Virginia Beach Police Department upon receiving the Congressional Medal of Bravery for their heroic actions on May 31, 2019. prgtoken Like many in our community and around the nation, I was shocked and horrified to hear about the active shooter situation in Virginia Beach's municipal building that day. The four officers arrived separately at the hectic scene before converging toward the sound of gunfire. Together, they approached the assailant and bravely exchanged gunfire, during which Sergeant Koepp was struck by a bullet, receiving blunt trauma to his abdomen. The officers' positioning allowed city employees and citizens to evacuate the premises until SWAT officers arrived. Sadly, 12 individuals in the building lost their lives that day. Still, the heroism that Officers Koepp, Laino, Watkins, and Meis exhibited may have saved countless more. prgtoken Knowing that they would enter a high-risk situation, each of these officers swiftly responded to the call to action. Our community is eternally grateful for their courage, and it is my privilege to celebrate these heroes as they receive this well-deserved honor.