mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
BIPARTISAN CONGRESSIONAL REFORM ACT
Sheldon Whitehouse (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2019-12-17

I thank Chairman Enzi. I am delighted to join Senator Enzi on the floor today to talk about our bill. An enormous amount of work has gone into preparing for it, including, I want to say, more than a dozen hearings that Chairman Enzi led in the Budget Committee to build the factual predicate for the work we were doing. prgtoken I will, as the Chairman has mentioned, also drop a word of appreciation to Chairman Womack and Chairman Lowey, who ran the Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform, which gave us a chance to work through some more of these issues. prgtoken The fundamental problem we are trying to address is that, in the Senate, no committee actually looks at the deficit, the debt, and the borrowing in any kind of a comprehensive way. In theory, the Budget Committee is supposed to, but in practice, the Budget Committee has become two things: one, a vehicle for the majority to drive a political budget limited to appropriated spending through, with no bipartisan compromise. We have seen over and over how that has ended up. It has never been of any use. Even if you get it done, you break through the budget by getting to 60 votes, and we do most things around here by getting to 60 votes. It is a fence that is basically a line painted on the ground. It is a fence with no fence to it. prgtoken Moreover, we do reconciliation. That is usually a way to bust around the budget. Both parties have used it. The s have used it for the so-called tax reform. We used it for one segment of the Affordable Care Act. That is what the Budget Committee is boiled down to--a partisan proposal on appropriations that means nothing and a vehicle for getting around the 60-vote filibuster on a regular basis through reconciliation. That is it. There is no serious look that is taken at the debt or at the deficit. prgtoken What does this bill do? It does some things for which there is very broad agreement. First of all, it was pretty much unanimous that the way you look at debt is in terms of a debt-to-GDP ratio, and this takes us down that path. Second, you have to do the arithmetic correct. You don't get to a proper debt-to-GDP ratio unless you look at the things that add up to the deficit, which are appropriated spending, healthcare spending, revenues, and tax spending. prgtoken For one quick word on tax spending, for 2018 the latest report I saw was that we spent $1.4 trillion going out the back door of the Tax Code. That is more than we spend on Social Security. That is more than we spend on Medicare and Medicaid combined. That is more than defense and nondefense discretionary spending combined. You can't not look at tax spending and still have your math right. We address those. prgtoken We provide a reasonable timeframe to get to a debt-to-GDP target and some warnings about whether or not you are on that glide slope. There was pretty much unanimous consent agreement among all of our witne
NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT MUSEUM COMMEMORATIVE COIN ACT
David E. Price (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2019-12-17

. Madam , I am pleased to rise in strong support of H.R. 1865. prgtoken I want to first thank our chairwoman, Nita Lowey, and also Ranking Member Kay Granger for their leadership and cooperation. I want to thank my good friend, Mario Diaz-Balart of Florida, for his collaborative approach. I couldn't ask for a better ranking member and partner in our subcommittee's work. prgtoken The T-HUD section of this bill invests in America's transportation and housing infrastructure with a particular stress on safety, on addressing the needs of the most vulnerable, and on mitigating the impacts of climate change. prgtoken It includes $74.3 billion in discretionary funding. That is an increase of $3.2 billion above the 2019 level, and it is $15.8 billion above the President's budget request. prgtoken On the housing side of the ledger, all Section 8 vouchers are renewed. The HOME program and Community Development Block Grants each receive $100 million in increased funding, and there is a $95 million increase for public housing capital expenditures to address the maintenance backlog. prgtoken Vital transportation programs are also robustly funded, including $1 billion for BUILD, formerly TIGER, grants. We provide more than $3 billion in discretionary resources above authorized levels for highways, transit, and aviation projects for every State and territory in this Nation. Amtrak, competitive rail grant programs, and port infrastructure also receive strong funding. prgtoken These investments support a renewed commitment to safety. The FAA receives additional resources to bolster aircraft certification, including dedicated funding to hire new safety inspectors, engineers, and data scientists. Every State will receive new funding to repair aging and deficient bridges. And resources are provided to address hazards in Federally-assisted housing, such as carbon monoxide, radon, and lead. prgtoken Vulnerable populations are targeted in our bill. We prioritized assistance for them, for example, for the construction of new housing units for the elderly and disabled, new vouchers for veterans, as well as resources for the homeless, people with HIV/AIDS, domestic violence survivors, and at-risk youth. prgtoken Finally, I am proud that this legislation lays the groundwork to integrate resiliency principles into the full range of programs under the bill's jurisdiction. For example, we require in this bill HUD grantees to think ahead about storm and hazard mitigation as part of their planning process. prgtoken So, in closing, we are proud of this bill, and we urge its support. It makes forward-looking investments while boosting safety and protecting vulnerable populations. It will benefit and serve all American communities, urban and rural, and lay the foundation for economic growth and prosperity. prgtoken Madam , I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
REMEMBERING BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES KEMP McLAUGHLIN
Joe Manchin, III (Democrat, WV) \u2014 2019-12-17

I rise today to honor the legacy of a member of our greatest generation, the founder and first commander of the West Virginia Air National Guard, a World War II veteran, an American hero, and a friend of both of ours, retired Brig. Gen. James Kemp McLaughlin. prgtoken He was born on December 7, 1918, in Braxton County, to James and Almira McLaughlin. Kemp was a staunch leader with unparalleled patriotism, and his devotion to God, State, and country was unmatched. Gayle and I were honored to call him a friend, and I know I join so many when I say that West Virginia has lost a shining star. He is dearly missed. prgtoken Ever since the historic beginning of our State, we have never failed to answer our country's call. No demand has been too great, no danger too daunting, and no trial too threatening. Kemp took part in some of the most important battles of World War II. Following his education at West Virginia University, Kemp joined the U.S. Air Corps at age 23, shortly before the attacks on Pearl Harbor, the day of his birthday. prgtoken He flew nearly 40 B-17 Flying Fortress bomber missions during the war, including support for the troops on the beaches of Normandy in 1944. In 1934, Kemp led a 350-plane attack on a factory in Germany, a raid that became known as Black Thursday. On too many occasions, Kent's planes would be so damaged that it was a miracle he made it back safe. prgtoken His actions were instrumental in not only destroying Nazi efforts, but as one of the ``Mighty'' 8th Air Force in Europe, he was also instrumental in developing what is known as air superiority, a vital factor in deciding the outcome of a modern conventional war. He paved the way for all citizen airmen who strive to follow in his footsteps. prgtoken Kemp completed 39 combat missions during World War II and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross four times. His vast experience aided him years later when he was asked to lead the Air National Guard's 167th Fighter Squadron in Charleston, WV. When that squadron moved to Martinsburg, Charleston's Guard unit became the 130th Airlift Wing. prgtoken Throughout the rest of his extraordinary life, Kemp continued to pay homage to his fallen comrades and serve his community. He served as Kanawha County commissioner and as a member of the West Virginia House of Delegates. He is a legend here in West Virginia and was one of the most selfless people that I have ever had the pleasure of calling a dear friend. prgtoken As Governor, my most honored titled was that of commander-in-chief of the Guard. I have seen firsthand how the Air National Guard protects the citizens of West Virginia when we are in our most desperate hour of need and how they protect our country when called upon to serve at the command of the President of the United States. The integrity of our Guard is due in large part to Kemp's legacy of excellence and his commitment to seeing our Guard and our home State f
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT
Patrick J. Leahy (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2019-12-17

I support the fiscal year 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. The final, conferenced version of this bill reflects a compromise. As with any compromise, there are things I support and things I wish the final bill had included. prgtoken Of great significance is the inclusion in this bill of a provision providing 12 weeks of paid parental leave for all Federal employees. There are Federal employees in every corner of this country, including in Vermont. We lead by example when we say that the Federal Government will support new parents, who will now be able to be home with their new child in those important first days. I hope that this example is one that can be replicated throughout our workforce. prgtoken The fiscal year 2020 NDAA includes important wins for servicemembers, their families, and our national security as well. I am pleased that at long last we have successfully introduced a phase-out of the so-called Widows' Tax. This bill mandates gender integration for Marine Corps training, makes much needed progress in addressing the use and after effects of open-air burn pits, and demands new standards for microelectronics supply chains, so we know our technology is working for us. prgtoken Closer to home, the bill authorizes $30 million to construct a new Army Mountain Warfare School in Jericho. This is important to Vermont and to the Nation. This major construction project will allow the Vermont Army National Guard, one of the Nations' few mountain battalions, to better fulfill their mission of training soldiers from the Guard, Reserves, and Active Duty to accomplish their mission in cold, rugged terrain. Vermont is an ideal training ground because its mountains and climate are challenging, but still allow training throughout the year for all levels of expertise. That training is important to the Army because mountain skills require the ability to move from one place to another when major obstacles are in the way, something valuable anywhere the Army operates. prgtoken The bill includes an important measure based on an amendment I filed as well to improve condolence payment authorities for civilians who are killed as a result of U.S. military operations. We have included funds for this purpose for years through the appropriations process, but very few payments have been made and record keeping has often been poor. The new provisions in this bill aim to improve the process and increase its use, so that when civilians are harmed in war, their families are not left economically destitute as well. prgtoken I am disappointed that this bill does not include measures that were adopted by the House of Representatives to repeal authorizations for the use of force that were adopted nearly two decades ago. We simply must have a debate in Congress about our ongoing engagement around the world that relies on these AUMFs. prgtoken I wish the final agreement had included a hazardous substance design
THE NEED FOR REVISIONS TO THE PFIC INSURANCE EXCEPTION FOR FINANCIAL GUARANTY INSURANCE COMPANIES
Gwen Moore (Democrat, WI) \u2014 2019-12-17

. Madam , I thank the and the Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee for working on an end of year bipartisan tax package and helping Congress get on with the business of legislating. While I wish that our colleagues in the Senate would take up Butch Lewis, which the House passed in July, and addresses the multiemployer pension crisis affecting millions of retirees across the country and I wish my colleagues across the aisle would have supported the Ways and Means Committee's advancement of legislation to expand the Earned Income Tax Credit and make the Child Tax Credit fully refundable, it's important for our constituents to see Congress working together. prgtoken I also know that many Americans are waiting for Congress to make essential fixes to the tax code in response to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and were hoping that Congress would add these fixes to our year-end tax package. While a couple such fixes were made, many vital revisions were left out. prgtoken I am planning to introduce bipartisan legislation early next year that will fix an unintended consequence of the recent changes to the insurance business exception to the passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, rules. I urge my colleagues to join me in this effort and cosponsor this upcoming legislation especially Members who are aware of the importance of available and affordable municipal bond financing to state and local municipalities. prgtoken This legislation is necessary to preserve the availability and affordability of financial guaranty insurance with respect to municipal bond financing for state and local municipalities. I have worked in close consultation with the staff of the Joint Committee on Taxation in developing this legislation to ensure that it provides a narrow exception for financial guarantors that is specifically designed to address the issue affecting municipal bond insurance in a manner that preserves the closing of a prgtoken loophole for foreign hedge funds, the intended targets of the recent changes. prgtoken As I work with stakeholders and colleagues to finalize this legislation, I understand that the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service are currently working on finalizing regulations with respect to the PFIC insurance business exception. I am particularly encouraged that the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service specifically requested comments with respect to the application of those regulations to financial guaranty insurance. I would encourage the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service to carefully consider the comments received pursuant to their request in light of the pending introduction and consideration of my legislation to address as much as possible any unintended consequences with respect to financial guarantors.
PROTECT CONSTITUTION WITH VOTE TO IMPEACH
Lauren Underwood (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-12-17

our country's Founders created impeachment so that no President could place themselves above the law, a crucial constitutional check of power that ensures our country's security and values are protected against corruption and foreign influence in our elections. prgtoken As I have weighed this solemn decision, I have listened to our community, examined important testimony and evidence, and studied the drafted articles. prgtoken The President has demonstrated a pattern of corrupt behavior and abused his power for his own personal political gain when he pressured foreign leaders to conduct investigations against political rivals, jeopardizing our country's national security and the integrity of our elections. prgtoken The testimony and evidence put forth led me to a clear conclusion: In order to uphold my sworn oath, I must vote to protect the Constitution and will vote in support of the Articles of Impeachment.
Introductory Statement on S. 3070
Dianne Feinstein (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-12-17

I rise with my colleagues, Senators Grassley, Capito, and Durbin to introduce the Preventing Pill Mills Through Data Sharing Act. prgtoken Millions of pills flooded small communities throughout the Nation to fuel the opioid epidemic we are facing today. prgtoken Despite the fact that opioid manufacturers and distributors were required to keep complete and accurate records relating to the sale, delivery, or disposal of opioids through the Automated Reports and Consolidated Ordering System, often referred to as ARCOS, and to detect and disclose suspicious orders of opioids to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), these substances still reached our streets. prgtoken That is why my colleagues and I previously introduced the ``Using Data to Prevent Opioid Diversion Act,'' which was enacted as part of the ``SUPPORT Act'' in 2018. As a result of that law, DEA is now required to provide to opioid manufacturers and distributors anonymized information related to the number of distributors serving a single pharmacy or practitioner, and the quantity and type of opioids being delivered to each. prgtoken This information, coupied with the internal controls that these companies already use in their efforts to determine the legitimacy of opioid orders, is assisting manufacturers and distributors in their efforts to better prevent these substances from being diverted to someone other than the intended recipient who has a lawful prescription. prgtoken That law also strengthened accountability by establishing civil and criminal fines for drug manufacturers and distributors who fail to consider ARCOS data when determining whether an order for opioids is suspicious. Additionally, it increased existing civil fines for drug manufacturers and distributors who fail to report suspicious orders and keep accurate records ten-fold, and doubled existing criminal fines. prgtoken Finally, our legislation required the United States Attorney General to share standardized reports with state officials, including regulatory, licensing, attorneys general, and law enforcement agencies, related to the distribution patterns collected by the ARCOS database on a semi-annual basis. prgtoken This law has ensured that opioid manufacturers and distributors have a clear picture of how many pills are going to each pharmacy, thereby helping to eradicate pill mills. prgtoken To strengthen this law, my colleagues and I are introducing the ``Preventing Pill Mills Through Data Sharing Act.'' This new legislation is largely based on recommendations included in the October 2019 U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) report related to the DEA's response to the opioid epidemic. prgtoken In that report, the DOJ OIG noted two shortcomings associated with the ARCOS system. First, not all registrants input data into the ARCOS system at the same intervals. prgtoken While both opioid manufacturers and distributors are required
NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT MUSEUM COMMEMORATIVE COIN ACT
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2019-12-17

. Madam , I thank the gentlewoman for the time, and I rise in support of H.R. 1865. prgtoken As the chair of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, I am pleased to briefly highlight the important national priorities addressed in this bill. prgtoken From the safety of our food and medicines, to agriculture research, to rural development, and nutrition assistance, the programs in this bill touch the lives of every American on a daily basis. The strong investments we make in this bill will improve people's lives at home and abroad. prgtoken The fiscal year 2020 Agriculture bill provides $23.5 billion in discretionary funding, $183 million above the fiscal year 2019 level. In addition, it provides the latest estimates for mandatory programs required by law. prgtoken The legislation makes major investments, totaling almost $3.8 billion, in our rural communities, including $1.45 billion for rural water and waste program loans and $545 million in grants for clean and reliable drinking water systems, $640 million for broadband programs, including $555 million for prgtoken the Re-Connect grants and loans, an issue with strong bipartisan support. prgtoken The bill funds all of the domestic nutrition programs, including SNAP, WIC, and the Child Nutrition Programs, sufficiently to meet anticipated participation in fiscal year 2020. prgtoken In addition, it provides $35 million for the Summer EBT program, $30 million for the school kitchen equipment grants, and $5 million for the school breakfast expansion grants. prgtoken The bill provides $1.8 billion for farm programs, including $35 million to address staffing shortages at county offices to ensure farmers and producers receive the best possible customer service. prgtoken It also extends and expands disaster assistance to continue assisting farmers, ranchers, and producers in States that were devastated by natural disasters, including Hurricane Michael that devastated my district. prgtoken The legislation makes critical investments in agriculture research by providing $3.2 billion, a $171 million increase over fiscal year 2019. prgtoken We provided record levels of resources for the Food for Peace and McGovern-Dole programs. These programs send American commodities all over the world to address global hunger and are an essential tool of American diplomacy. prgtoken The Food and Drug Administration will receive $3.16 billion in discretionary funding, with specific funding dedicated to fighting rare cancers, gaining efficiencies for generic drug reviews, improving response to foodborne illness outbreaks, and the continued implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act. prgtoken The bill funds the Commodity Futures Trading Commission at $315 million, a historic, necessary, and long-overdue increase. prgtoken I am pleased that the bill provides funding for several programs authorized in the 2018 farm bill, including the