mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
EMERGENCY SECURITY SUPPLEMENTAL TO RESPOND TO JANUARY 6TH APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2021
Raphael G. Warnock (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2021-7-29

I believe healthcare is a human right. And with all the incentives on the table for Georgia to expand Medicaid, it is past time to do so. My home State of Georgia, where State leaders have refused to expand Medicaid, has the opportunity to provide affordable healthcare to 646,000 people who could qualify. prgtoken I refuse to allow Georgians to suffer and be cut off from care while politicians play games. This is why I introduced recently the Medicaid Saves Lives Act. This is legislation that would allow people in States like mine, that haven't expanded Medicaid, an alternative path to health coverage; because for far too many, access to affordable, reliable healthcare is the difference between life and death. prgtoken I agree with Martin Luther King, Jr who said that, ``of all the injustices, inequality in health care is the most shocking and the most inhumane.'' So I am grateful that this plan, the Medicaid Saves Lives Act, which I introduced the other day, is positioned to be included in the forthcoming economic package. prgtoken That is why I rise again on the Senate floor to tell the story of another Georgian, a story that gets to the heart of why this bill is important. prgtoken This is Amy Bielawski. Amy is the owner of a small business, Hare- Brained Productions. It is an event planning and entertainment company in Tucker, GA. As you can imagine, prgtoken Amy's company took a significant hit during the pandemic. prgtoken Unable to book regular gigs and plan events--events that all of us miss as we have been clawing our way back from this pandemic--Amy qualified for unemployment benefits this past year. And with that critical support, Amy had temporary access to affordable marketplace plans created by the Affordable Care Act. prgtoken But with the end of Georgia's unemployment benefits looming and the entertainment sector still suffering from the effects of the pandemic, her access to coverage--the coverage she so desperately needs--is on the brink again. prgtoken At the same time, she will have to manage her thyroid disease, high blood pressure, pituitary gland tumor, fibroids, and all the other health hiccups that come along with aging. prgtoken If Georgia was to expand Medicaid or if there was a Federal Medicaid Program for nonexpansion States like Georgia, Amy would no longer have to worry about getting reliable health coverage for her chronic conditions. This is the human face of the public policy we make or the public policy we fail to make. prgtoken As our State's healthcare options stand now, Amy says she ``doesn't think they care about people like me falling through the cracks.'' Even more disappointing, when asked what Medicaid expansion would mean for her, Amy was reluctant to even picture that future. She said: Well, it is really difficult to say ``because I've never had consistent healthcare--it is hard to imagine.'' prgtoken Think about that. It is hard for somebody who works eve
STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Dianne Feinstein (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-7-29

I rise today to introduce the ``Affordable EVs for Working Families Act of 2021.'' prgtoken This bill is an important measure that will ensure more widespread, equitable adoption of electric vehicles by creating a tax credit for buyers of pre-owned electric vehicles, similar to the tax credit that exists for purchasers of new electric vehicles. prgtoken Starting now, and over the next several decades, the United States must take swift, decisive action to reduce our carbon emissions-- especially from the transportation sector, which makes up one-third of all U.S. carbon emissions. prgtoken I am proud to say that California has led the way in the adoption of low- and zero-emission vehicles for several decades by incentivizing the development and purchase of electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and setting high fuel economy standards that 13 States have opted to follow. prgtoken According to research released just last month by the Pew Research Center, California has by far the highest share of electric vehicles of any State in the Nation--on average, 12 electric vehicles registered per 1,000 people. prgtoken As a result, California now has the largest pre-owned electric vehicle market in the nation. Sales for pre-owned electric vehicles in California have grown significantly in recent years. prgtoken However, a study released just last month by Energy Innovation found that for lower-income households, the up-front costs of purchasing an electric vehicle presents an especially large hurdle, despite the long- term cost savings that they offer, such as on gas and maintenance. prgtoken Transportation is the second-largest expense for all U.S. households, but presents a particular burden for lower-income households-- suggesting that incentives for pre-owned buyers targeted toward lower and middle-income communities can increase adoption of electric vehicles in those communities significantly, and further accelerate overall adoption. prgtoken We cannot miss an opportunity to ensure that as we electrify our transportation sector, electric vehicles become an option for all families--not just those who can afford new ones. prgtoken My bill would do just that. prgtoken My bill would provide a $2,500 tax credit to purchasers of preowned electric vehicles, similar to the credit already offered to purchasers of new electric vehicles. The credit only applies to vehicles that cost $25,000 or less, and would be phased down for buyers whose adjusted gross income exceeds $75,000 per year for individuals and $150,000 for joint filers. prgtoken My bill also includes critical safeguards such as a vehicle identification number reporting requirements and a 2-year previous ownership requirement to ensure that any attempted fraud is quickly caught. prgtoken I would like to thank Congressmen Jimmy Gomez who is introducing the House companion to this bill, and has carried this effort in the House, along with Congressman Mike Thompso
FEDERAL FUNDING FOR COMMUNITY PROJECTS
Lauren Underwood (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2021-7-29

. Madam , since day one in Congress, bringing Federal resources to help the 14th District of Illinois thrive has been one of my top priorities. prgtoken As a new member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am so proud of how much we have accomplished in just 7 short months. Just last week, I was pleased to announce that over $10.5 million in Federal funding for community projects was included in the House's appropriations legislation. prgtoken These projects will improve the quality of life and economic opportunity in northern Illinois. In Joliet, Pingree Grove, and Richmond the resources will improve water infrastructure to give each community a reliable water source for years to come. prgtoken In McHenry, the resources will help expand access to higher education through dual credit programs at McHenry County College. prgtoken In Kendall County, the resources will help foster youth and their advocates by developing a permanent advocacy office for CASA of Kendall County. prgtoken These investments are critical, and I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress until these resources are seen and felt in our community.
Introductory Statement on S. 2553
Mazie K. Hirono (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2021-7-29

I rise today to introduce the Judiciary Accountability Act of 2021. I thank Representatives Johnson, Speier, Nadler, Torres, and Mace, along with my cosponsors, Senators Whitehouse, Murray, and Durbin, for working with me to finally ensure that employees of the Federal judiciary have strong statutory rights and protections against discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation, and other forms of workplace misconduct. prgtoken More than 30,000 people work in the Federal judiciary. As with any organization of this size, the judiciary is not immune from workplace misconduct. prgtoken Over the years, however, a variety of factors have worked together to prevent instances of workplace misconduct within the judiciary from coming to light. There is a unique power imbalance between the Federal judges who sit atop this vast organization and the clerks, staffers, and other employees who rely on connections and recommendations to advance their careers. The cloak of confidentiality ensures what happens in chambers stays in chambers. And, perhaps most important, there is a lack of legal recourse available to judicial employees who are denied even the most fundamental workplace protections. Indeed, the Federal judiciary is one of the few employers--private or public--whose employees are not protected by state or federal civil rights laws. prgtoken Despite all these reasons to keep quiet, a number of victims have bravely come forward to report serious harassment by Federal judges over the past several years. In December 2017, six former law clerks and staffers accused Ninth Circuit Judge Alex Kozinski of subjecting them to a range of inappropriate sexual conduct and comments. In September 2019, the Tenth Circuit Judicial Council issued an order finding that District Court Judge Carlos Murguia had harassed multiple employees over a period of years, including by subjecting them to sexually suggestive comments; inappropriate text messages; and excessive, non-work-related contact. In February 2020, a former law clerk to the late-Ninth Circuit Judge Stephen Reinhardt accused the judge of a months-long harassment campaign. prgtoken In the face of this egregious misconduct and Congressional pressure, the federal judiciary has taken only small, limited steps to protect its employees. It is not enough. prgtoken The Judiciary Accountability Act fills the void left by the judiciary's inaction and extends to judicial branch employees the same anti-discrimination rights and remedies other government sector employees and private sector workers have had for decades. It also goes further. Among other things, it would create an Office of Judicial Integrity to administer a nationwide, confidential reporting system; establish a Special Counsel for Equal Employment Opportunity empowered to investigate all workplace misconduct complaints; form an Office of Employee Advocacy to assist in judicial branch employees in matters rel
IN RECOGNITION OF WILLIAM SEXTON ON HIS INDUCTION INTO THE LUZERNE COUNTY SPORTS HALL OF FAME
Matt Cartwright (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2021-7-29

. Madam , I rise today to honor coach and Northeastern Pennsylvania native William Sexton. William will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame for his distinct coaching achievements in the sports of wrestling, baseball, and football. He and his fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. prgtoken Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. prgtoken William is a graduate of North Pocono High School and Bloomsburg State College. He spent nearly four decades as a social studies teacher at Towanda Area High School, In 1978, he was named assistant coach of the school's wrestling team, and in 1980, he was promoted to head coach. Under his shrewd and capable leadership, the Black Knights had 676 wins, 233 loses, and three ties. His legendary career varsity record makes him the winningest coach in PIAA District IV history and the second in Pennsylvania all-time history. He coached his wrestlers to eleven Northern Tier League Championships, fifteen PIAA District IV North Section Team Titles, four PIAA District IV Team Titles, and one Northeast Regional Title. prgtoken Dedicated to helping young people reach their full potential in sport, William spent forty years, from 1978 to 2018, coaching the Black Knights baseball and football teams. As the head baseball coach, he lead the team to 549 wins, and throughout his coaching career, the teams won eleven Northern Tier League Titles and one District IV title. prgtoken It is an honor to recognize William on his induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his story and coaching career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.
HONORING JENNIFER CARRUTHERS AS IOWAN OF THE WEEK
Cynthia Axne (Democrat, IA) \u2014 2021-7-29

. Madam , I rise today to honor Jennifer Carruthers as Iowan of the Week. Jen is a female LGBTQ entrepreneur, strong advocate, dedicated mentor and passionate community leader for Iowa. prgtoken Born and raised in Rock Island, IL, Jen studied at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, IA receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management with a focus on Urban Economic Development. She then went on to make her home in Des Moines, spending the last decade advocating for marginalized communities. Through her business 11 Eleven Productions, she was pivotal in launching and developing the female-led barber shop, Dapper DSM. Jen also founded Drag King DSM, which draws top performers and sell-out crowds in a marginalized art form. Over the last 10 years at Girls Rock! Des Moines, she has developed programming which now offers two summer camps and year-round services including the second all-female-led recording studio in the country. Her outstanding leadership in Iowa has been deservedly recognized by multiple community organizations. prgtoken Jen has been instrumental organizing and leading Capital City Pride (CCP), which has become the largest LGBTQ+ gathering in Iowa and one of the fastest growing Pride's in the country. prgtoken During her time leading Capital City Pride, the COVID-19 pandemic changed the way communities celebrate, but Jen knew the importance of celebrating Pride together. In 2020, she led the board in putting together some of their most beloved Pride Fest events virtually to ensure LGBTQ+ community-building continued. This programming engaged just shy of 30,000 people, providing critical connectivity during the height of the pandemic. prgtoken This June, Jen led the Capital City Pride board through 30 Days of Pride remaining cognizant of COVID-19. Events held across Des Moines included a mix of online and in person events allowing people to participate to their comfort level. Some popular additions this year included a Downtown Scavenger Hunt, the Rainbow Safari at Blank Park Zoo, Ride in Movie night at the Science Center and a Drive Thru Parade with Outdoor Concert at Waterworks Park. Favorites from year's past like the Silent Disco, Pet Parade and Pride Night with the I-Cubs brought people together in familiar ways. prgtoken As June and 30 Days of Pride ended this year, it culminated with another Drag King DSM production. But Jen is just getting started; started in another year of advocating, of educating, of learning, of uplifting others, and most of all, another year of celebrating Pride. prgtoken I look forward to 2022 and beyond to see what Jen will accomplish for the Iowa community, and it is my honor to name Jennifer Carruthers our Iowan of the Week.
FUNDING PACKAGE THAT PRIORITIZES WORKERS, FAMILIES, AND COMMUNITIES
Brian Higgins (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2021-7-29

. Madam , I rise today in support of H.R. 4502, a funding package that prioritizes workers, families, and communities. prgtoken This bill delivers in a major way for Buffalo and western New York. It will fight cancer in underserved neighborhoods by helping Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center establish a lung cancer screening registry. prgtoken It preserves local history at the Buffalo Naval Park and the Albright-Knox prgtoken Art Gallery. It trains our future workforce by investing in training programs at the West Side Bazaar, the Buffalo Sewer Authority, and Buffalo State's Small Business Development Center. prgtoken It will better connect our community to nature, something the pandemic has shown to be a critical life-quality asset, at the Shoreline Trail and The Riverline projects. prgtoken Budgetary documents are a statement of our values. This package says our children, veterans, families, and communities are our most important investments.
Remembering Carl Levin (Executive Calendar)
Jeff Merkley (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2021-7-30

I rise today to add my voice to my colleagues in remembering and paying our respects to our dear friend and former colleague Senator Carl Levin, whom we sadly lost last night. prgtoken My colleagues have been sharing their stories and their experiences of this incredible human being, this amazing Senator, and I want to share one of my own, a story of how he made an impact on my life and my approach to being a Senator. prgtoken It was back in 2009, when we had an enormous collapse of our economic system. I came here as a freshman Senator, and we were working to say what happened and how can we prevent this from happening again. A lot of what happened was enormously leveraged bets made in the Wall Street casino. A staff member of mine kept saying, you have got to read this essay by Chairman Volcker about how we take and shut down this Wall Street casino and how it puts our entire economy at risk and will do so again in the future again if we don't act prgtoken After two or three times that my team member had approached me on this, I put out an email to all of the Senators and said: Here is the challenge that is presented, and here is what we need to do to protect the future economy. Would anyone join me in undertaking to establish this Volcker rule to shut down the Wall Street casino? prgtoken The next day, I came to the floor of the Senate, and Carl Levin comes up to me. And he says: About your email from yesterday, about your email, I want to join you in that project. prgtoken He knew a lot about this issue, and he had staff members who knew a lot about this issue. Then he went on to say: And you may think because you are new and I have been here for a while that I am going to sweep in and take this over. He said: But I want to tell you, I am not going to do that. I don't want to do that. I want to work in full partnership with you, together. prgtoken And that is what it became, this full partnership: our team members working closely together, Carl and I working closely together, no one leading, if you will, or, to put it differently, leading together. And it had many, many chapters in this effort. prgtoken It was not an easy path to say the big banks needed to change how they operate. But what struck me in how he conducted himself was he expressed not egoism but altruism. He didn't focus on what he should do to advance himself politically; he wanted to know what we can do to serve the best interests of this Nation, not grandstanding but problem- solving to make the United States of America work better for everyone. And so we proceeded. prgtoken During the debate on Dodd-Frank, we had an opportunity to put forward an amendment to establish the Volcker rule. Colleagues across the aisle were none too happy about that, and it shut down the Senate for a full day. So Carl and I kept working during that day to say: No, this should be debated. This should be voted on. But eventually, our second-degree am
RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH
James R. Langevin (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2021-7-30

. Madam , today it is an honor for me to pay tribute to the Office of Naval Research and its contributions to our Sea Services, the Nation, and the pursuit of scientific and technological discovery on the occasion of its seventy-fifth anniversary. prgtoken The Office of Naval Research was established by act of Congress on August 1, 1946, in the aftermath of World War II to ``plan, foster, and encourage scientific research in recognition of its paramount importance as related to the maintenance of future naval power, and the preservation of national security.'' A product of wartime necessities that brought together government and military planners, academia, and industry to help make science and technology an essential tool prgtoken for victory, the Office of Naval Research grew into a vital organization dedicated to the enduring warfighting requirements of the Navy and Marine Corps and the peacetime needs of the nation. The Office of Naval Research prioritizes building a close and essential relationship between the public good and the progress of science and technology. For seventy-five years this agency has maintained that relationship through war and peace. Much of our infrastructure for the public support of science and technology. from the National Science Foundation to DARPA to the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and Army Research Office, was built in the years after the war using the model pioneered by the Office of Naval Research. prgtoken In its early decades, the Office of Naval Research supported research in the burgeoning fields of computing and directed energy, leading to the development of one of the first digital computers, Project Whirlwind, as well as the creation of the maser and laser. Its projects took scientists to the upper atmosphere in some of the highest recorded balloon ascents and brought human beings to the very bottom or the ocean in the Challenger Deep. Office of Naval Research-supported engineers and scientists created the first autonomous robot, as well as the first autonomous undersea vehicle. The Office of Naval Research, Arctic Research Laboratory helped several generations of scientists understand polar environments better. Its support led to the development of atomic clocks; the key invention that made precision satellite navigation possible. Finally, and perhaps most of all, long- term support from the Office of Naval Research led to the postwar blossoming of the ocean sciences, leading to countless discoveries in acoustics, wave prediction, meteorology, marine mammal research, and climate studies. The invention of virtually every important sensor and undersea vehicle that made these discoveries possible owes a debt to the stewardship of the Office of Naval Research. prgtoken From aircraft to ships to weapons systems, nearly every platform in use by the Navy and Marine Corps today relies in some way on technology originally developed or enhanced by the Office of N
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2021-7-30

section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. prgtoken In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications which have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.