mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Waters of the United States (Executive Session)
Deb Fischer (Republican, NE) \u2014 2023-3-14

almost 20 years ago, a family in Idaho purchased a lot in a residential area near Priest Lake. prgtoken They were looking to build a home. They obtained county building permits and started placing sand and gravel on their property to get it ready for the build. But shortly after the family began preparing their lot, the Environmental Protection Agency told them to stop. There was water on their building plot with no surface water connection to any body of water. But because of its proximity to Priest Lake, the EPA said that placing sand and gravel on the property violated the Clean Water Act. prgtoken The Clean Water Act prohibits the discharge of pollutants, such as the rocks and sand used to prepare a building plot into navigable waters. prgtoken Navigable waters are ambiguously defined by the Clean Water Act as ``waters of the United States.'' That is more commonly known as WOTUS. prgtoken Normally, navigable waters are defined as waters that are deep; they are wide; and they are calm enough for boats or ships to go across. The surface water on the Idaho family's lot certainly doesn't fit that bill. prgtoken The Idaho family tried to challenge the EPA. They sought a hearing, but the EPA chose not to grant them one and, instead, continued to assert the Clean Water Act jurisdiction against their land. So Michael and Chantell Sackett sued. prgtoken They had been to the Supreme Court once, and they are back again this year. They still haven't been able to build on the property that they first acquired in 2004. prgtoken The Sackett v. EPA Supreme Court case centers on interpretation of the Clean Water Act. What counts as waters of the United States? prgtoken In 2015, the administration published an unprecedented expansion of the definition of WOTUS, giving the Federal Government jurisdiction over a State resource--that is, Nebraska's water. It doesn't belong to the Federal Government. prgtoken I fought former President 's WOTUS rule since my very first term here in the U.S. Senate. The rule was the Federal Government at its worst. It encroached on families, on communities, and on businesses by its brazen intrusion into the precious water resource of my home State of Nebraska--and all the rest of our States as well. prgtoken The administration rescinded 's WOTUS rule, but when President took office, he reversed that. The President issued a new rule allowing EPA officials in Washington, DC, to make case-by-case determinations of what should be considered water of the United States. Privately owned land containing ponds, puddles, and even dry ditches can now be regulated by the Federal Government. This prgtoken needless power grab only places more people under restrictive regulations and rules. prgtoken The Federal Government should not have the power to regulate Nebraska's water; Nebraskans should. Nebraska has a special system of natural resource districts that empower locally e
ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15, 2023
Gary C. Peters (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-3-14

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 15; that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day and morning business be closed; that following the conclusion of morning business, the Senate proceed to executive session and resume consideration of the Nieman nomination, postcloture; further, that all postcloture time be considered expired at 11:30 a.m. and the Senate vote on confirmation of the nomination; that following the cloture vote on the Garcetti nomination, the Senate recess until 2:15 p.m. to allow for the weekly caucus meetings; and further, that if cloture has been invoked on the Garcetti nomination, all postcloture time be considered expired at 2:15 p.m. and the Senate vote on confirmation of the nomination; and that if cloture is invoked on the Chaudhary nomination, all postcloture time be considered expired at 5:15 p.m.; and finally, that if any nominations are confirmed during Wednesday's session, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.
Russia (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-3-14

now, earlier today, two Russian military aircraft conducted an unsafe intercept with an unmanned U.S. surveillance drone that was operating within international airspace over the Black Sea. This intercept was so dangerous and so brazen that the U.S. Air Force was forced to crash their drone into international waters. It is another reckless act by President Putin and his military, and I want to tell Mr. Putin: Stop this behavior before you are the cause of an unintended escalation. prgtoken We have seen this behavior from the Russian military before, and it will not deter the United States from conducting operations over the Black Sea. These aggressive actions by Russian aircraft are risky and could lead--I repeat--to unintended escalation. prgtoken The United States has routinely flown over the Black Sea since before Putin's illegal and reckless invasion of Ukraine, and I am confident our military will continue to do so.
HONORING THE LEGACY OF SIG HUTCHINSON
Wiley Nickel (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-3-14

it's my honor to pay tribute to the distinguished career of Wake County Commissioner Sig Hutchinson. It's my privilege to recognize his invaluable contributions to the people and communities of Wake County and to wish him a well-deserved and happy retirement. prgtoken Born in west Texas, Commissioner Hutchinson moved to Raleigh after graduating with a bachelor's degree from Texas Technical College and earning a master's degree in education from the University of South Carolina. He began exploring Wake County's greenway trails with his family recreationally and saw the untapped potential to make Wake County a more accessible and sustainable community. prgtoken Commissioner Hutchinson has served on the Wake County Board of Commissioners since 2014 and has successfully led seven bond referendums totaling over $400 million in Wake County and the City of Raleigh. prgtoken Commissioner Hutchinson's efforts to preserve open space, expand the greenway system, and make communities healthy and livable have earned him a reputation as a champion for the environment and for public health. prgtoken In addition to his work as a county commissioner, Commissioner Hutchinson has held leadership roles in numerous regional and State boards and associations, including the Triangle Land Conservancy, Advocates for Health in Action, and NC Prevention Partners. He currently serves in leadership positions with the Upper Neuse River Basin Association, Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, Live Well Wake, National Association of Counties, and Go Triangle. prgtoken I'd like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Commissioner Sig Hutchinson for his years of service to North Carolina and to wish him all the best in his retirement from the Wake County Board of Commissioners. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of community development and environmental stewardship will endure for generations to come. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Commissioner Sig Hutchinson.
HONORING RUBY HYDE
Morgan McGarvey (Democrat, KY) \u2014 2023-3-14

I rise today to honor civil rights icon Ms. Ruby Hyde, or as many of us from Louisville call her, Ms. Smoketown, for her unwavering commitment to equality. prgtoken Ruby has been a community activist for decades. As the founder of the Smoketown Heritage Festival, she has dedicated herself to honoring and uplifting Louisvillians from all walks of life. From her passion for equality to her volunteer work with Wayside Ministries, Ruby is a shining example of what it means to be a leader. I thank Ruby for everything she does for our community.
STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Jack Reed (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2023-3-14

service is a core American value. We take inspiration from those who have answered the call to serve, whether in defense of our Nation abroad or in strengthening our communities at home. Finding common cause through service is how we will overcome the major challenges of our time--addressing inequality, strengthening civil society and democratic institutions, and leaving a healthy, resilient planet to future generations. That is why I am proud to join Congressman John Larson of Connecticut in introducing the America's Call to Improving Opportunities Now, ACTION for National Service Act. Our legislation calls for a historic expansion of the number of service opportunities and an increased investment in those who serve. prgtoken The ACTION for National Service Act will honor our national value of service, while addressing the barriers that limit citizens' opportunities to serve. Our legislation will set us on a path to 1 million national service positions within 10 years. It will increase the educational award so that an individual completing 2 full years of service will earn the equivalent of 4 years of the average instate tuition at a public college or university. Indeed, those who are willing to serve should not be left to carry a heavy financial burden of student loan debt. The ACTION for National Service Act will also ease other financial barriers to service by increasing the living allowance and eliminating the tax liability for the education awards and living stipends. The bill calls for a robust outreach effort to ensure that all young people will know about the many opportunities to serve their country and their communities. It will mobilize a Civilian Climate Corps to address the urgent needs of hardest hit communities. Finally, the ACTION for National Service Act calls for elevating the Corporation for National and Community Service to a Cabinet-level Agency and establishes a National Service Foundation to leverage private sector resources to support national service activities. prgtoken , it is time that we reinvigorate the social contract we have with each other by elevating service as a national value. We must also make the commitment to invest in the education and professional development of those who are willing to sacrifice for our Nation. Developing the talents of our most committed citizens pays lifelong dividends. Our investment in the GI Bill not only honors our servicemembers but also enriches our Nation. Similarly, the education awards for those who have served through our national programs have economic impacts beyond the individuals who earn them. That is the new deal that the ACTION for National Service Act offers. prgtoken All AmeriCorps members take a pledge to get things done for Americans, to make communities safer, smarter and healthier, and to bring us together. It is a pledge we all should commit ourselves to. prgtoken I would like to thank Sena
INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION REQUIRING MEMBERS AND STAFF TO RECEIVE MEDICAL EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TRAINING
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-3-14

today, I introduce a resolution to amend the Rules of the House of Representatives to require every Member, officer and employee of the House of Representatives to receive medical emergency preparedness training, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Requiring all Members and staff to be trained in medical emergency preparedness would help ensure that care is immediately available to those in the Capitol Complex experiencing a medical emergency. prgtoken Individuals trained in medical emergency preparedness can provide vital care during medical emergencies. When Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was wounded during a 2011 mass shooting, Daniel Hernandez Jr her 20-year-old college intern, provided Giffords with lifesaving CPR. prgtoken When responding to a medical emergency, every second counts. For example, immediate CPR and the use of an AED can make a critical difference for those experiencing cardiac arrest. CPR can double or triple the chance of surviving a cardiac arrest, and the survival rate of cardiac arrest decreases by ten percent for every minute that defibrillation is delayed. prgtoken Millions of Americans saw the value of CPR and the use of an AED during the Buffalo Bills football game on January 2, 2023, when Bills player Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during the game. Team personnel performed CPR and used an AED on Hamlin, likely saving his life. prgtoken Staff from the Office of the Attending Physician and Capitol Police officers, while trained in medical emergency intervention, are not always immediately available in a medical emergency. Widespread training in CPR and the use of AEDs can help save lives during medical emergencies in the Capitol Complex. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.
HONORING MARIA EMMA FERNANDEZ AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
Darren Soto (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-3-14

Maria Emma Fernandez, from Colombia, South America, came to the United States in the early 1990s. She has a bachelor's degree in the arts and has lived in Orange County, Florida, since 2003. prgtoken She has taught Spanish and art at various levels in school and has been a substitute teacher in Orange County public schools. In addition, she has worked with students to plan and organize programs and events related to Spanish language clubs. prgtoken While living in St. Louis, Missouri, Maria worked with Grupo Atlantico, a dance group, giving workshops and teaching volunteers how to showcase the art and culture of Latin American and Caribbean countries. prgtoken Maria, who is married and has a son, loves art, books, and culture. She started a club in Central Florida called Tertulia4gatos that now meets in 12 public libraries in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole Counties. This club encourages people to enjoy reading, listening to music, and performing. The group includes artists such as painters, sculptors, dancers, poets, and writers. prgtoken Maria is empowering cultural managers to help artists and writers find places to showcase their work or display their talents and to be recognized for it. Tertulia4gatos is now 16 years old and has more than 3,000 participants through various activities from weekly meetings to art festivals and book readings. There also is a club at the University of Central Florida. This volunteer program fosters unity among Spanish- speaking cultures. ``What would the world be without art,'' Maria said. prgtoken Maria loves all cultures and their accomplishments, but most important is her love for family, books, and art. Her goal is to unite her community, foster equality, and ensure that Hispanics remember their roots. ``I volunteer because art can change the world,'' she said. ``We are inspiring hearts.''
TRIBUTE TO BERNARD E. DOYLE
Chris Van Hollen (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2023-3-14

I rise to acknowledge Bernard E. ``Bernie'' Doyle, who is retiring on 20 April 2023, after more than 40 years of combined military and Federal civil service to our country. After graduating from the George Washington University with a bachelor of arts degree in journalism and speech, Mr. Doyle received his Air Force officer commission in April 1979 as a public affairs officer. With unbounded ambition, Mr. Doyle was selected for the Air Force's Funded Legal Education Program and attended the University of Maryland Law School from 1981 to 1984. Upon his graduation from law school in October 1984, Mr. Doyle entered the second chapter of his military service as a judge advocate in the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General's Corps and never looked back. prgtoken Rising through military ranks and responsibilities through the years, Mr. Doyle was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel and oversaw 11 attorneys in the Air Force Legal Service Agency's Employment Litigation Branch. He also personally conducted over 200 trials and appellate litigation in Federal employment discrimination cases and trial and appellate litigation before military courts martial and the appellate courts for the Air Force and the Armed Forces. Among the highlights of his military legal career was his experience defending the accused in three capital murder courts martial. With humility, he would share the profound impact that this experience had on his formative years as a military officer and an attorney in finding courage and compassion within the military justice system. prgtoken After his retirement from the Air Force in December 1998, Mr. Doyle continued his public service as an administrative judge with the Merit Systems Protection Board--MSPB--an appeals counsel in the MSPB's Office of the Appeals Counsel, and then as an assistant general counsel for the MSPB Office of the General Counsel. To no one's surprise, Mr. Doyle's managerial skills and legal acumen were quickly recognized by his leaders and peers, which led to his selection as the chief counsel to the vice chairman in a non-career Senior Executive Service position. During Mr. Doyle's 11-year tenure at MSPB, he worked extensively on MSPB precedential opinions and successfully defended MSPB final decisions before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Several of his cases, such as Ward v. U.S. Postal Service, Kirkendall v. Army, Butterbaugh v. Department of Justice, and Becker v. Department of Veterans Affairs, continue to serve as the guiding principles on due process rights for Federal employees and employment benefits and protections for veterans and military servicemembers. prgtoken Mr. Doyle joined the National Guard Bureau Office of the General Counsel as an associate general counsel in the Litigation and Employment Law Division in September 2014. His leadership and dedication to excellence was critical in managing and advocating for <|p|
Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank (Executive Session)
Elizabeth Warren (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2023-3-14

on Friday, we experienced the second largest bank failure in our Nation's history. And make no mistake, this failure was the direct result of leaders in Washington weakening financial rules. prgtoken In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Act to protect consumers and to ensure that big banks could never again take down the economy and destroy millions of lives. prgtoken Since then, Wall Street executives who hated the whole idea of the bill spent millions to keep it from becoming law and, after it passed, spent millions more to try to weaken it. prgtoken In 2018, the big banks won. With support from both parties, President signed into law a law to roll back critical parts of Dodd-Frank. Now, I fought against these changes. On the eve of the Senate vote in 2018, I warned from right here on the Senate floor that ``Washington is about to make it easier for the banks to run up risk, make it easier to put our constituents at risk, make it easier to put American families in danger, just so that the C.E.O.s of these banks can get a new corporate jet and add another floor to their new corporate headquarters.'' prgtoken I wish I had been wrong, but last week, the FDIC was forced to rush in to take over two failing banks--Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank--and then take extraordinary actions to protect those banks' customers and prevent the contagion from spreading throughout the economy. prgtoken Both SVB and Signature Bank suffered from a toxic mix of poor risk management and weak supervision. If Congress and the Federal Reserve had not rolled back key provisions of Dodd-Frank, these banks would have been subject to stronger liquidity and capital requirements to help withstand financial shocks. They would have been required to conduct regular stress tests to expose their vulnerabilities and shore up their businesses. They would have had a more aggressive regulator standing at their shoulder, looking more closely at every part of the banks' business. But because those stringent requirements were taken out of Dodd-Frank, when an old-fashioned bank run hit SVB, the bank could not withstand the pressure. prgtoken Shortly after that, Signature Bank collapsed, and to fight back the risk of contagion and to protect the banking system, the Federal Government once again was called on to take extraordinary measures--the kind of measures that Dodd-Frank was originally supposed to protect us against. prgtoken These threats should never have been allowed to materialize, and now, we must prevent them from occurring prgtoken again by reversing the dangerous bank deregulation of the era. prgtoken On Monday, President called on Congress and regulators to reverse the -era deregulation and ``strengthen the rules on banks to make it less likely that this kind of bank failure will happen again.'' The President is right, and that is why today, on the 5-year anni
TRIBUTE TO DR. VITO IMBASCIANI
Adam B. Schiff (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-3-14

I rise today to honor Dr. Vito Imbasciani who is retiring after nearly eight years as Secretary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs. prgtoken Vito Imbasciani earned his master's degree and doctorate from Cornell University before attending the University of Vermont College of Medicine where he earned his medical degree. He then attended Yale University School of Medicine where he completed his internship and residency in general surgery and his fellowship in urology. prgtoken Dr. Imbasciani's highly decorated career began in 1986 as a surgeon for the U.S. Army Medical Corps where he continued to serve for nearly three decades. During his time serving as a surgeon for the Medical Corps he also held the position of State Surgeon for the California Army National Guard, where he advised the Adjutant General on health issues impacting thousands of national guard members, while working as a field surgeon in Iraq and a Level 3 surgeon at the Landstuhl Army Hospital in Germany. In total he had four deployments including the liberation of Kuwait, Operation Desert Storm and the Global War against Terrorism, earning the rank of colonel and receiving awards such as the Combat Medic Badge and the Meritorious Service Award. In addition to serving his state and country, Dr. Imbasciani worked as Director of Government Relations and as a urologic surgeon for Southern California Permanente Medical Group (Kaiser Permanente). prgtoken During the time of his military service, Vito had to conceal his sexual identity due to the ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' policy. However, because of the unwavering efforts of then-President which resulted in the 2010 repeal of the policy--which Vito was recognized by the president as a source of inspiration for--Dr. Imbasciani and thousands of other service members can now serve their country openly and proudly. Vito's support of the LGBTQ+ community is evident by the creation of a lecture fund, with his spouse, George DiSalvo, in 2013 with the aim of ensuring culturally capable physicians who can provide prevention services and medical care specific to the LGBTQ+ community. prgtoken In 2015, Dr. Imbasciani was appointed by then-Governor Jerry Brown as Secretary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs and was reappointed by Governor Gavin Newson in 2020. prgtoken Under Dr. Imbasciani's stellar leadership, the California Department of Veterans Affairs has seen numerous successes, including greatly reducing the backlog of veterans' benefit claims, assisting veterans with receiving home loans, providing funding for thousands of veteran housing units, increasing outreach to women and minority veterans, and providing legal assistance to veterans seeking citizenship. Other noteworthy accomplishments include introducing the California Transition Assistance Program (CalTAP) to educate veterans about their benefits, opening a long-awaited cemetery in Monterey County for veterans