mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
RECOGNIZING ``MOTHER'' ROSA McKIE
Nydia M. Velázquez (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2017-10-23

I rise today to recognize the life and service of ``Mother'' prgtoken Rosa McKie, who for the past 50 years has shown tremendous dedication to the community of the Mason Temple Church of God in Christ on Williams Avenue in Brooklyn. prgtoken Known as a source of pure kindness, inspiration and fortitude, Ms. McKie's longstanding service to the Church earned her the title of ``Church Mother''. Ms. McKie migrated to New York in 1943 and has since called Brooklyn her home. A World War II Navy Bride, she married the late Charles McKie as he was on active duty. This summer, on July 17th, she turned 100 years old, proving that age has not slowed her from counseling, nurturing and investing in her community. prgtoken Present at nearly every worship service that takes place at the Church, Ms. McKie has fulfilled roles as diverse as usher, Choir Director, and outreach missionary. It is this spirit of willingness to meet every need that has earned her such a warm legacy among congregants. prgtoken It is my great honor to wish Mother McKie a joyful birthday and lifetime celebration as she leaves her daily role with the Church to relocate and live with her daughter. For someone who has been a living inspiration for so many, it is my deep hope that this service is a chance for her community to return the love.
TAX REFORM
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2017-10-23

this House and its committees will discuss what is being called tax reform, what is being told to the American public is a middle class tax break. prgtoken Well, I am here to tell you it is a con job. It is a tax giveaway to the wealthiest people in this country like never before at the expense of people in the middle class, lesser incomes, who will not get benefits, and if they do, it is chump change. It is the change you give somebody at a restaurant when you get your meal. prgtoken Billionaires will get to get away without having to pay an estate tax, like --billions of dollars they will not have to pay to the government to help fund Pell grants, LIHEAP, and other programs that help people who need something. That is something they will not come off of. prgtoken They may raise a little rate and say: We are going to put a little higher rate on the wealthy because it is not in there now. prgtoken They may say: Give the State and local income tax exemptions back. prgtoken But they are not going to go back on the estate tax because that is for the superwealthy, and that is who this bill is for. prgtoken Wake up America. It is a con job.
BANGLADESH
Patrick J. Leahy (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2017-10-23

in correspondence with officials of the Government of Bangladesh over a period of several years and in conversations with officials of our own State Department, I, like many others, have raised concerns about enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, extrajudicial executions, and other flagrant violations of the rule of law by the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed and particularly by the Rapid Action Battalion, RAB. prgtoken Like the inquiries and appeals of others, my concerns have been responded to by Bangladeshi officials with blanket denials, obfuscation, and even falsehoods. prgtoken Despite such attempts to deflect responsibility, it is beyond a doubt that the rule of law is often violated by Bangladeshi law enforcement agencies. This conduct has become so ingrained that it is not an overstatement to describe Prime Minister Wajed's government as one that condones state-sponsored criminality. prgtoken Of course, the government would vociferously reject such a characterization, insisting that individuals who have disappeared were kidnapped by militants or joined extremist groups or simply claiming that their whereabouts are unknown to the government. The problem is that there is often credible eyewitness testimony to the contrary or those responsible for the abductions have identified themselves as members of one of the security forces, the RAB being the most notorious. prgtoken The State Department's latest Country Reports on Human Rights describes the situation in Bangladesh as follows: ``Human rights groups and media reported that multiple disappearances and kidnappings continued, some committed by security services. The government made limited efforts to prevent or investigate such acts. The United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances contacted the government on March 9 concerning the ``reportedly alarming rise of the number of cases of enforced disappearances in the country'' and had 34 outstanding cases under review as of May 18, but the working group did not receive a response. Following alleged disappearances, security forces released some individuals without charge, arrested some, some were found dead, and others were never found.'' prgtoken The State Department also cited the practice of torture of detainees in Bangladesh: ``Although the constitution and law prohibit torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment or punishment, local and international human rights organizations and the media reported security forces, including RAB, intelligence services, and police, employed torture and physical and psychological abuse during arrests and interrogations. Security forces reportedly used torture to gather information from alleged militants although members of political opposition parties claimed that security forces also targeted activists within their parties. Security forces reportedly used threats, beatings
VOTE EXPLANATION
Debbie Stabenow (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2017-10-23

unfortunately, I was unable to attend the rollcall vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 2266, emergency supplemental appropriations. Had I been able to attend, I would have voted in favor of cloture. (At the request of Mr. Schumer, the following statement was ordered to be printed in the Record.)
BRIDES MARCH FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Adriano Espaillat (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2017-10-24

earlier today, close to 100 women in wedding gowns from all over our country came to Washington, D.C. They came here to give a face and a voice to victims of domestic violence. prgtoken I was also floored by the courage of my colleagues, other Members of Congress, whose loved ones had been victims and had even been killed because of domestic violence. Domestic violence is something that can impact anybody on any day, even on your wedding day. prgtoken The Brides March honors the memory and tragedy of Gladys Ricart, who, on September 26, 1999, lost her life on her wedding day at the hands of her abusive ex-boyfriend. prgtoken This march has now spread beyond New York, to Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Florida, Washington, D.C and even other countries like the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Brazil, and Spain. prgtoken That is why, , today I am Gladys Ricart. We are all Gladys Ricart. The Brides March and the advocacy of New York Latinas Against Domestic Violence is a thundering statement against domestic violence and a reminder that domestic violence remains a pressing issue in our communities and sometimes in our families. prgtoken , domestic violence and violence against women is unacceptable.
STOP SETTLEMENT SLUSH FUNDS ACT OF 2017
David N. Cicilline (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2017-10-24

. Mr. Chair, if I might just say briefly, the notion that Congress can just do these appropriations itself sort of misses the point. It is the responsibility of Article III courts to hear disputes, supervise litigation, and enforce settlements. prgtoken It is an odd moment for Congress to take on the work of another branch of government when we can't even do our own work here. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I yield the balance of my time to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kildee).
STOP SETTLEMENT SLUSH FUNDS ACT OF 2017
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2017-10-24

. Mr. Chair, I would only offer to say that there is not one Judiciary Committee on this so-called bipartisan bill. That is where you first start the bipartisanship: you work with members who may, in fact, believe that some of the issues that have been raised by my prgtoken good friend from California may have merit. prgtoken Maybe this bill could have been drafted in a way that would have responded to some of the failures, if there are some, such as evidenced by our good friend from New Jersey, who recalled a lot of failures not by but by s. But when you start off with a bill talking about slush funds, then you negate the good work of so many organizations that have benefited to do the very good that the consent decree was intended to do. prgtoken Today, I stood with the Latinas Against Domestic Violence. They came here to stand against the violence against women that goes on and on and on. Some of them may be in the gallery. prgtoken But what I would say, , is: Why would we not want to give that organization funds if they were in line to get dollars to help prevent or intervene in the vileness of domestic violence? prgtoken So the idea that our friends on the other side are missing is the value some of these entities have been given. prgtoken The only word that I have heard over and over again, as I have heard from the administration, I have heard from the Attorney General, the former Secretary of Health and Human Services, is one word. In fact, I think the English language has been limited to one word on the floor of the House: . I like to call him President . That is the respect I give him. prgtoken Every legislative initiative has come forward on the shoulders of a man who finishes 8 years, might I say, with a great deal of respect. prgtoken So here is what the bill the people are opposed to will do: prgtoken This bill would not give dollars to those victims who are harmed and could engage in workplace monitoring, as well as other payments to remedy generalized harm, including remedies designed to prevent the recurrence of sexual violence or discrimination in the workplace. prgtoken They wouldn't give it to an environmental remedy project, such as needed cleanup efforts following the hazardous toxic pollutant spills that spoil protected areas, preventing families and children from enjoying recreation on State lands designed for public use. prgtoken They wouldn't give it to federally certified housing counseling intermediaries by preventing housing counseling, relief to communities that have been preyed upon by financial institutions that have broken the law. prgtoken I even hate to use the term ``slush.'' They are dollars out of a consent decree that are managed and monitored by career professionals to those in need. prgtoken So I am opposed to the underlying bill, and I will offer an amendment.
MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR VICTIMS OF CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2017-10-24

the worst fires in the history of California have devastated nearly 300,000 acres, destroyed some 8,000 homes, caused billions of dollars in damage, burned to the ground many businesses, and, most sadly, taken the lives of 42 people-- and that number may very well rise. prgtoken These fires were like no other, propelled by winds that reached speeds of over 70 miles per hour. The worst of the fires were in my district. They moved so fast, burning at times 200 feet per second. That is three football fields every 30 seconds. prgtoken People had little time to escape their burning homes. They fled with only the clothes on their back and, in some cases, with their homes already in flames. prgtoken The most covered area on the news is a neighborhood in my district in Santa Rosa called Coffey Park. There, alone, the entire neighborhood, some 1,300 homes, were burned to the ground. The winds were so high that they pushed the blaze across eight lanes of freeway and over two frontage roads to destroy the homes and lives of those 1,300 families. prgtoken Eleven thousand firefighters, thousands of law enforcement and National Guard soldiers put their lives on the line to stop the raging inferno and protect Californians in the line of the fire. Some of those first responders lost their own homes, but they worked 24/7 to help others. The actions of civilian heroes and heroines saved an untold number of lives. prgtoken The fallout from this disaster will be felt for years, if not decades. You can't just rebuild 8,000 homes and entire neighborhoods overnight. prgtoken My colleagues and I from California appreciate all of your words of comfort and offers to help, and the people hurt by this monster fire will need all of our help. prgtoken , I ask that the House now observe a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in this terrifying fire and to show our commitment to help rebuild the lives of the many thousands of people who have lost everything.
REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF RONALD A. RUSSO
Tim Ryan (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2017-10-24

today I rise to honor the life of Ronald A. Russo, a dedicated father, husband, brother, and grandpa who passed away on Friday, October 20, 2017. prgtoken Ron was born on June 16, 1953, in Youngstown, Ohio to Rucco and Anna (Sikusha) Russo. He graduated from Chaney High School in 1971 and worked for the Youngstown Fire Department for the past 37 years. He was currently serving as Battalion Chief. Prior to becoming a chief, he spent the majority of his career on Squad 33. Ron earned several lifesaving valor and crew awards during his career, and he was always willing to help anyone in need. He was a member of I.A.F.F O.A.P.F.F and Y.P.F.F. Local No. 312. He especially enjoyed working with his father and former Youngstown Fire Chief Rocco Russo, and his twin brother, retired Youngstown Fire Department Battalion Chief Rich Russo. prgtoken Outside of work, Ron spent a great deal of time watching his son coach hockey. As soon as Ron found out he was going to be a grandfather, he put a swimming pool in his backyard. He had devoted the last eight years of his life to his grandchildren. Everything from family vacations, crabbing on the beach, teaching them to cook, and that every animal says ``moo.'' He also enjoyed cooking and hosting family gatherings with his loving wife Joann. Their home was always open to everyone. The family motto was ``La Familiga E'Tutto,'' family is everything. prgtoken He will always be remembered lovingly by his wife, the former Joann Booher, whom he married Dec. 31, 2004; four children, Rocco Russo (Melissa Singleton), Margaret (Michael) DeNiro, Marie (Jared) Rupert, and Melissa Russo; two stepchildren, Tristan (Kolt) Codner, and Justine (Corey) Keller; twin brother, Richard (Janet) Russo; brother Robert (Debbie) Russo; seven grandchildren, Gavin and Logan Rupert, Dominic, Carmen, Julianna DeNiro, Gianna Russo, and Andrew Codner; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. prgtoken Ron's life will be celebrated on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home in Boardman, Ohio, followed by a funeral service at the Poland United Methodist Church, where he was a member. Ron will be greatly missed both by the community and his family. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends.
TRIBUTE TO RUSTY TALBOT
Margaret Wood Hassan (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2017-10-24

this month, I am proud to recognize Rusty Talbot, of Sugar Hill, NH, as our Granite Stater of the Month for his dedication to supporting our vibrant North Country communities. prgtoken As the founder and owner of the North Country Climbing Center, Rusty and his wife have built a small business that has been described as an ``inclusive community,'' where he strives to create a welcoming environment for both experienced climbers and beginners. He has worked diligently to engage with various organizations throughout the community, like the Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country, which empowers individuals who experience disabilities to experience rock climbing. prgtoken Rusty is also involved with local business and entrepreneurship groups, including the Franconia Notch Regional Chamber of Commerce, the North of the Notch Young Professionals Network, the Littleton Rotary Club, and the Bethlehem Colonial Theatre. His commitment to supporting the local economy and other small businesses, in addition to his own successful climbing center, earned him Stay Work Play's Young Professional of the Year award. As New Hampshire continues to work to attract young people, his nominator noted that Rusty has ``reminded us why we chose to live and play in northern New Hampshire.'' prgtoken In addition to running his business, Rusty also dedicates his time to the Sugar Hill Fire Department, where he is a volunteer firefighter, and the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team, for which he is a lieutenant. Earlier this year, Rusty participated in the successful search and rescue effort for a hiker who had been missing in the White Mountain National Forest for days before he was found. In describing his motivation for volunteering for these critical public safety entities, Rusty says, ``In this community, people help each other. Not because it's required or because it's our job to do so, but because we are all in this together.'' That pervasive sense of selflessness and community solidarity is what makes the Granite State unique. prgtoken Throughout New Hampshire, citizens just like Rusty give back to their community, look out for their neighbors, and do what they can to help make our beautiful State a stronger place so we can all grow and thrive together. Rusty embodies the all-hands-on-deck spirit that we all strive to fulfill, and I am honored to recognize him as our Granite Stater of the Month for October.
STOP SETTLEMENT SLUSH FUNDS ACT OF 2017
Daniel T. Kildee (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2017-10-24

. Mr. Chair, I appreciate the gentleman yielding, and particularly for this thoughtful amendment. I am from Flint; born and raised in Flint. I represent Flint. I was here on the floor and I was the one pushing for the legislation that the gentleman on the other side mentioned that provided $120 million to help offset the cost of this terrible tragedy. prgtoken When I introduced the first legislation, we calculated what the total direct and indirect cost was: $1.5 billion. prgtoken Now, here is the point: again, we ought not put a community like Flint in the position of having to depend on this Congress to fully fund the total cost of that recovery, or another community that might be facing a similar situation. prgtoken If the gentleman is sincere that Congress can act to help offset the incredible indirect costs that my home community is facing, then I would suggest the gentleman join me in my effort to do just that. So far, Congress has not done that. prgtoken The notion that we would exempt the people of Flint from access to the resources that could be determined by a court as being part of the justice that they deserve is not an act that we ought to engage in. prgtoken Flint, as sad as this case is, is not an anomaly. Flint is a warning, and when we need to make sure we heed that warning.
FAMILY OFFICE TECHNICAL CORRECTION ACT OF 2017
Carolyn B. Maloney (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2017-10-24

I rise today in support of H.R. 3972, and I am very thankful to gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hensarling), the chairman, and the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Maxine Waters), the ranking member, for their support and assistance on this legislation. prgtoken This bill is very simple. It makes what I consider to be a technical fix to the rules for family offices. prgtoken Family offices are entities that are established by wealthy families to manage their own money and to provide financial services to their family members. prgtoken The original family office was created by John D. Rockefeller 135 years ago and still exists in the district that I represent. So family offices have a long and storied history in this country and have become important sources of liquidity for our markets. prgtoken It is also important to note that family offices do not pose a systemic risk and did not cause any problems in the financial crisis, so they don't pose any safety and soundness risk to the financial system. prgtoken Family offices aren't regulated by the SEC as investment advisers because they don't have traditiona clients or outside investors. They invest money in their funds like most investment advisers. prgtoken A family office is just that: a family office managing its own family money. Their clients are primarily family members, and disputes between family members are better handled either internally by the family or through State courts, which have laws to govern disputes between family members. prgtoken Prior to Dodd-Frank, the SEC had been exempting family officers and offices from the Advisers Act for decades on a case-by-case basis. In Dodd-Frank, we codified the exemption for family offices and required the SEC to write a rule formally defining ``family offices.'' The SEC finalized that rule in 2011, so family offices, to meet the SEC's definition, do not have to register with the SEC or as investment advisers. prgtoken However, a problem has now come up that we did not anticipate. We assumed that every family client or a member of the family would qualify as a sophisticated accredited investor under the SEC rules. But it turns out that there are very limited circumstances in which a family client of a family office may not actually qualify as an individual accredited investor. prgtoken For example, a 19- or 20-year-old member of a wealthy family may be in his or her first job after school and may not be making enough money to qualify as an accredited investor, which is over $200,000, annually. prgtoken The real problem is, under the rules we have now, if just one of these family clients--a young person, in most cases--in a family office is not an accredited investor, then the entire family office is not considered an accredited investor and, thus, cannot buy any securities that are limited to accredited investors, like privately issued stocks or bonds. My bill would fix this by just clarifying that all family of