mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO MEET
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2018-10-2

I have 5 requests for committees to meet during today's session of the Senate. They have the approval of the Majority and Minority leaders. prgtoken Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committees are authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate: Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs prgtoken The Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, at 10 a.m to conduct a hearing entitled ``Implementation of the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act.'' Committee on Energy and Natural Resources prgtoken The Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, at 10 a.m to conduct a hearing. Committee on Finance prgtoken The Committee on Finance is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, during votes to conduct a hearing the nomination of Andrew M. Saul, of New York, to be Commissioner of Social Security. Select Committee on Intelligence prgtoken The Select Committee on Intelligence is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, at 2:30 p.m to conduct a closed hearing. Subcommittee on the Constitution prgtoken The Subcommittee on the Constitution of the Committee on the Judiciary is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Tuesday, October 2, 2018, at 2:30 p.m to conduct a hearing entitled ``Threats to Religious Liberty Around the World.''
IN HONOR OF THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INCORPORATION OF THE CITY OF GREEN RIVER AND THE ARRIVAL OF THE TRANSCONTINENTAL RAILROAD
Liz Cheney (Republican, WY) \u2014 2018-10-2

I rise today to extend my congratulations to the City of Green River for the 150th Anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Green River and the arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad. prgtoken The City of Green River, Sweetwater County Historical Museum, and the Green River Chamber of Commerce continue to proudly honor this great town's history and achievements, including Thomas Moran's famous ``First Sketch in the West.'' prgtoken Additionally, the Transcontinental Railroad played a pivotal role in not only the development of Green River but Wyoming as a whole. On May 10, 1869, the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads were connected, creating the Transcontinental Railroad. The railroad brought great change to Wyoming and our nation alike. It opened new doors to economic opportunity, new trade markets, and even helped create the Wyoming Territory. In Governor John A. Campbell's inaugural address to the Wyoming Territorial Legislature, he said, ``For the first time in the history of our country, the organization of a territorial government was rendered necessary by the building of a railroad.'' The Transcontinental Railroad was a historic achievement that continues to benefit the economy of our State to this day. prgtoken Again, , I would like to extend my congratulations to the City of Green River for the 150th Anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Green River and recognize the historic significance of the arrival of the Transcontinental Railroad in Wyoming.
S. 756, SAVE OUR SEAS ACT OF 2018
Bill Shuster (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-10-2

I include in the Record the following letters of exchange which were to have been placed during consideration of S. 756 on July 25, 2018. Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, Washington, DC, July 10, 2018. Hon. Rob Bishop, Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Bishop: On June 27, 2018, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure ordered reported with amendment S. 756, the Save Our Seas Act of 2017. The bill was referred primarily to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, with an additional referral to the Committee on Natural Resources. I ask that you allow the Committee on Natural Resources to be discharged from further consideration of the bill so that it may be scheduled by the Majority Leader. This discharge in no way affects your jurisdiction over the subject matter of the bill, and it will not serve as precedent for future referrals. In addition, should a conference on the bill be necessary, I would support your request to have the Committee on Natural Resources represented on the conference committee. Finally, I would be pleased to include this letter and any response in the bill report filed by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as in the Congressional Record during floor consideration, to memorialize our understanding. Thank you for your consideration of my request. Sincerely, Bill Shuster, Chairman.
HONORING MISS AMERICA'S OUTSTANDING TEEN 2019--LONDON HIBBS OF TYLER, TEXAS
Louie Gohmert (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-10-2

Texas is blessed to have had some absolutely extraordinary, inspirational people who have accomplished some manifestly phenomenal things. One of those extraordinary, inspirational individuals who has already inspired a nation is London Hibbs of Tyler, Texas who, as Miss Texas' Outstanding Teen, recently captured the prestigious title of Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2019 in Orlando, Florida. prgtoken London will have the remarkable opportunity to speak to audiences nationwide about her personal platform, ``Check Yes 4 Life,'' which encourages teen organ donation registration. prgtoken The little sister program to Miss America, the Miss America's Outstanding Teen Organization is, one of the nation's leading achievement programs encouraging and nurturing scholastic achievement, creative accomplishment, healthy living, and community involvement of our nation's youth. prgtoken London's academic and creative endeavors already reflect an unusual maturity, embodying the drive, dedication, and desire that marks exceptionally successful adults. She is an Honor Roll student, member of Mensa, gifted vocal soloist who has performed in Carnegie Hall, enthusiastic community volunteer, accomplished actress, and is highly respected as a leader among her peers. prgtoken As a result of London's prestigious accomplishment, she has been awarded more than $30,000 in scholarships, after securing preliminary wins in both the Talent and the Evening Wear/Onstage Question portions of the competition. Every aspect of her life and her persona reflect well on all who have assisted her along the way. prgtoken As she travels the country this year, all of us can look forward to the significant impact London will make on the thousands upon thousands of people she will meet as she inspires them to reach for their dreams. prgtoken It will be a great pleasure to watch her pursue and achieve her aspirations beyond the opportunities afforded her during this year of service as well, just as it has been a great honor for me personally to know, respect, and admire the entire Hibbs family. prgtoken It is truly a distinct privilege to honor this exceptional young lady, our reigning Miss America's Outstanding Teen 2019 London Hibbs, whose landmark accomplishments will endure as long as there is a United States of America.
IN RECOGNITION OF ELDERS MINI MART
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-10-2

I rise today to recognize Elders Mini Mart as it closes after ninety-eight years of operation in Caruthers, California. prgtoken Founded in 1910 by Lon and Bertha Elder, Elders Mini Mart was originally established as prgtoken a grocery store. The shop has seen multiple identity changes but has remained in the ownership of the Elder family throughout the decades. After operating as a grocery store, it transitioned into a bar. In the 1985, the Elders remodeled the bar into a barn, selling local produce and hosting dances in the community. Over time, the produce barn slowly transformed into Elders Mini Mart. It remained in operation until its closing on October 1, 2018. prgtoken Elders Mini Mart has been in the ownership of the Elder Family since its founding. Lon and Bertha Elder passed down management responsibilities to Fred and Laura Elder, who then gave ownership to Ray and Pat Elder. When Ray sadly passed away in 2011, Pat maintained ownership of the store. prgtoken Elders Mini Mart has become a fixture in the Caruthers community. It is widely known for being the choice of farmers for their morning coffee and children would often get free ice cream at the end of a school day. The Mart has a reputation for having the best deli in town. Aside from being a popular meeting place for farmers and students, Elder Mini Mart has also historically supported the local Central Valley agriculture industry through selling local produce. It never went to waste; unsold fruits and vegetables being fed to their livestock. prgtoken Located off the 41, Elders Mini Mart gets customers from around the state, country, and world. Travelers stop at the store for a quick break, and unexpectedly find a warm atmosphere with a friendly owner and delicious food. If anything defines Elders Mini Mart aside from its rich history, it would be their ability to make all customers feel like part of the community. Their customer service was unmatched. prgtoken Pat Elder has been the sole owner since her husband Ray passed away. While effectively managing the store for years, she has decided the time has come to retire. She is ready to transition into the next phase of her life and is excited to have the opportunity to travel. After decades of hard work and service to Caruthers, she deserves a restful retirement with many exciting adventures. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Elders Mini Mart for ninety- eight years of operation and wishing Mrs. Pat Elder well in her retirement.
HONORING THE NATIONAL DAY OF THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Christopher H. Smith (Republican, NJ) \u2014 2018-10-2

October 10, 2018 marks the 107th National Day of the Republic of China, or ``Double Ten Day,'' as it is known in Chinese. On this auspicious day we not only have an opportunity to reflect on the bond between the American and Taiwanese people--our shared democratic values and historical partnership--but also look forward to strengthened ties of friendship and collaboration. prgtoken Founded by Dr. Sun Yat-sen on October 10, 1911, the Republic of China stands as a beacon of freedom and democracy on the island of Taiwan, and as a positive counterexample to mainland China which, under Xi Jinping, has turned to greater repression and contempt for human rights. prgtoken Let us not forget that the Republic of China, which had to endure many challenges and social upheavals during its tenure of rule in mainland China from 1911 to 1949, was the first allied country to be attacked in World War II. Our two countries locked arms and resisted the Imperial Japanese Army, with the first American aviators volunteering with Major General Claire Chennault and the fabled Flying Tigers to resist the Japanese from the air in 1941. Eventually, Japan and the Axis powers were defeated decisively, and the Republic of China became one of the founding members of the United Nations and attained a seat on the Security Council. prgtoken Despite some hesitant steps on our part, we again stood together against the Communists led by Mao Zedong, both before and after the Republic established itself on Taiwan, from where it offered support to our forces resisting Communist tyranny on the Korean peninsula. In the ensuing decades, the Republic of China on Taiwan emerged from authoritarian rule to become the first authentically democratic nation in Chinese history. prgtoken Taiwan has since become a beacon of hope and optimism in the Asia- Pacific region. Its people enjoy all basic freedoms, including freedom of the press, assembly, and religion. Through the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, the American people have strengthened our bond with the people of Taiwan. Recent Congressional endeavors, such as the Taiwan Travel Act--which I proudly cosponsored--undoubtedly will lead to further cooperation and friendship. prgtoken It is perhaps because of Taiwan's democratic culture that China feels so threatened by it. Mainland China has launched a multi-dimensional campaign against Taiwan that includes many aggressive and provocative actions, such as the dispatching of warships, bombers, and fighter jets to encircle the island, as well as conducting live-fire military exercises near Taiwan's waters. Furthermore, in the diplomatic arena, China has worked assiduously to cut off Taiwan's diplomatic partners and block Taiwan from participating in international organizations. Taiwan has a comparative advantage in areas such as global health, and it is a travesty that for no other reason than to assuage China, Taiwan is prohibited from particip
RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL DAY OF TAIWAN
Rob Bishop (Republican, UT) \u2014 2018-10-2

I rise today to recognize the National Day of Taiwan and its ongoing relationship with the United States. Relations between our two countries were cemented with the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA) in 1979 and have flourished for nearly 30 years. prgtoken Throughout the decades, Taiwan and the United States have continuously stood strong together against a number of challenges, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to one another's mutual security and prosperity. This commitment was first enshrined in the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 (TRA) and was supplemented by the Six Assurances by President Ronald Reagan in 1982. The TRA and the Six Assurances form the foundation of America's unshakable relationship with Taiwan and today, I would like to express my personal and continuing support for these pillars of our strategic partnership. prgtoken Our ongoing commitment to cooperation also extends into the areas of trade and economics. In 2017, Taiwan was ranked as the 11th largest trading partner of the United States, the 11th largest U.S. export market and the 7th largest market for U.S. agricultural products. Taiwan has imported $3.57 billion of food and agricultural products from the U.S. representing more than 28 percent of total imports of those products. prgtoken Taiwan also regularly sponsors trade missions to the United States in pursuit of agricultural products. Last year, these missions culminated in the signing of letters of intent to purchase approximately $2.8 billion in U.S.-produced grains between 2018 and 2019. Similar missions are organized by the U.S. Commercial Service to assist U.S. companies in identifying opportunities in Taiwan. One such mission was recently organized in conjunction with the World Trade Center of Utah and led by Governor Gary Herbert to assist Utah-based companies, and other Western states, to network in Taiwan. I will continue to seek avenues where we can work together to further promote not only Utah-Taiwan relations, but U.S.-Taiwan relations in general. I hope my colleagues will join me in promoting this cooperation wherever possible. prgtoken Once again, I am proud to recognize Taiwan's National Day, and look forward to many years of friendly and prosperous relations between our two nations.
SUBSTANCE USE-DISORDER PREVENTION THAT PROMOTES OPIOID RECOVERY AND TREATMENT FOR PATIENTS AND COMMUNITIES ACT
Rob Portman (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-10-3

I agree with Senator Durbin. First, I would like to also voice my appreciation for the hard work that our colleagues in both the House and Senate put into the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act. Lifting the IMD exclusion for all individuals with substance use disorder was no easy feat and took decades to accomplish, and I believe that this is a testament to all that we can achieve when we work together to solve our Nation's problems in a bipartisan way. prgtoken With that said, I would like to echo Senator Durbin's concerns regarding the limitation of stays for just 30 days. Each individual seeking treatment for substance abuse is unique and so are their treatment needs. That is why my colleagues and I included a 90-day limit to stays in our Improving CARE Act; 90 days would both successfully accommodate a full range of patient needs, while also ensuring that there is a time limit on inpatient stays so that patients and providers can work together in a timely manner to successfully transition the patient into outpatient care. prgtoken Section 5052 recognizes this by taking language from our Improving CARE Act that requires participating, inpatient facilities to offer at least two forms of medication-assisted treatment because we recognized that everyone's treatment needs are different and there is not one single treatment or length of stay in an inpatient facility that is right for everyone. In many instances, 60 or even 90-day treatment programs may be necessary for an individual to succeed, and this is why we included a 90-day stay limit in the Improving CARE Act. prgtoken However, it should be noted that section 5052 does include additional language that I hope might rectify this issue. We included in our Improving CARE Act clarifying language that notes that nothing in the policy will supersede the existing ``Medicaid and CHIP Managed Care Final Rule'' that was finalized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on April 25, 2016. That rule allows for Medicaid- managed care plans to offer inpatient, substance abuse treatment for up to 15 days at a time. prgtoken Thus, it is important for us to clarify that as the architects of these provisions that Medicaid managed care plans do in fact have the authority to blend the 30-day stay limit that is authorized under section 5052 of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act and the 15-day stay limit from the Managed Care Final Rule. Under this construct, Medicaid managed care plans will have the flexibility to offer inpatient, substance abuse treatment for up to 45 days. prgtoken My home State of Ohio relies heavily on Medicaid managed care and currently enrolls nearly 90 percent of all Medicaid beneficiaries into Medicaid managed care plans. While I am disappointed that we could not find the means to offer our constituents up to 90 days of care, I am grateful that many in my State will be able to have a bit of additional flexibi
SUBSTANCE USE-DISORDER PREVENTION THAT PROMOTES OPIOID RECOVERY AND TREATMENT FOR PATIENTS AND COMMUNITIES ACT
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2018-10-3

I also ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the names of Chairman McCaul's staff and Ranking Member Thompson's staff. prgtoken Also, we are grateful to the staff of Chairman Smith, who chairs the House Science Committee. There was a good amount of science policy that was ultimately included in this legislation. prgtoken Also, we are very grateful to Ranking Member Johnson's staff, Pam Whitney and Allen Li.
SUBSTANCE USE-DISORDER PREVENTION THAT PROMOTES OPIOID RECOVERY AND TREATMENT FOR PATIENTS AND COMMUNITIES ACT
Roy Blunt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-10-3

my colleague just talked about standing up for the Senate, about standing up for the values that traditionally have been our values. One of those principal values has been ``innocent until proven guilty.'' What we have seen happen here in the last week is something that did not need to happen, certainly, in the way it has happened. prgtoken The hearing, the hours of questions, the picking apart of those answers at leisure--we have seen all of that. Do you know what would have happened if we had followed this process the right way? It is hard to do when a significant majority of the committee says that it is against the nominee before he has the hearing and when several Senators say they are against the nominee before he is even nominated, no matter who the nominee will be. prgtoken There would have been a normal background check that would have occurred if the information that had been available to the committee-- to the and their staffs--had been turned over at the time. How would they have handled that? How would those in the FBI have handled that on July 30 or August 30 or on any other date? They would have handled that by going and talking to the people involved. Dr. Ford and Judge Kavanaugh would have been interviewed by the FBI. The people they would have mentioned with whom the FBI should also talk would have been interviewed by the FBI, and that would have been put in the file. The material could have been presented to the committee as it should have been. prgtoken In Judge Kavanaugh's private hearing, they were willing to talk about baseball tickets. They could have pursued this in the private hearing: Here is what is in this file. What do you have to say about that? prgtoken Dr. Ford, as she said she had wanted to be, would have been kept anonymous in that process. There would have been no reason--unless the committee would have decided to do what somebody on that committee did--to have used her name and for this to have become a major public confrontation. This could have been handled in another way. Her letter and her personal trauma could have been handled in a way that they were not. In fact, it couldn't have been handled more poorly or politically by some in the minority or by their staffs than it was. prgtoken Only after the original hearings had ended, only after it was obvious that Judge Kavanaugh--in my view, it was obvious--had the votes to be confirmed, then, suddenly, were these unverifiable charges made public by the on the committee and by their staffs. prgtoken I work hard in the Senate to find agreement with my colleagues of both parties. I have been the principal cosponsor on legislation with all but four of the in the Senate. I do my best to find the areas we can agree on. In fact, with regard to this FAA bill today, Senator Cantwell and I chair that subcommittee, while Senator Thune and Senator Nelson chair the full committee.