mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Ron Wyden (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2019-6-26

today I am introducing the Wildfire Smoke Relief Act of 2019 with the ultimate goal of providing Federal emergency assistance to at risk individuals in areas with unhealthy air quality caused by wildfire smoke. By actively preparing for the effects of wildfire smoke inhalation, this bill attempts to ensure the long term health and security of all of those affected by wildfires. prgtoken In 2018, over 2,000 fires burned nearly 900,000 acres in the State of Oregon. The result of these fires was weeks and weeks of wildfire smoke. In Southern Oregon alone, there were 39 days with unhealthy air quality directly caused by smoke from wildfires. People need proper air filtration equipment, and in extreme cases, to seek refuge in a smokeless area. Communities are being choked by wildfire smoke, and each year wildfires are becoming more destructive than the previous. prgtoken Vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and low-income families are disproportionately affected by wildfire smoke. Additionally, those with chronic heart or lung conditions are at a similarly heightened risk. Symptoms from smoke inhalation can develop within a relatively short time of exposure, and according to research, is akin to smoking several packs of cigarettes per day. Symptoms vary and can include poor development of lungs in children, shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, nausea, reduced lung capacity, bronchitis, headaches, and visual impairment. prgtoken The bill would authorize the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance to at risk individuals by providing smoke inhalation prevention equipment and low-cost home improvements when air quality causes unhealthy air quality levels or three consecutive days. Smoke inhalation prevention equipment would include an air filter, a face mask or respirator, a portable air filtration unit, and other low cost equipment used to keep smoke out of a house. prgtoken In severe cases, the Wildfire Smoke Relief Act would authorize FEMA to provide transitional sheltering assistance for at risk individuals. In these extreme cases FEMA can arrange alternate, cost-efficient housing arranged for at-risk people to escape the smoke. prgtoken , I am pleased to be joined by Senator Jeff Merkley in introducing the bill today and look forward to working with my colleagues toward enactment of the Wildfire Smoke Relief Act in the 116th Congress.
HONORING LENORA LAPIDUS
Yvette D. Clarke (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Madam , as Vice Chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I would like to honor the legacy of the beloved Lenora Lapidus for her steadfast dedication to making this nation a better place than she found it. Lenora was a public servant and civil rights leader passionate about creating equal opportunity for marginalized groups. She was a leader in our community who used her voice to create fair opportunities for women and girls. Lenora began her career in service as an ACLU intern, and later became the legal director of the ACLU of New Jersey, leading the Women's Rights Project for almost two decades. From ensuring that our nation's military is open and accepting to all Americans to creating a means to combat gender-based violence, Lenora won cases on behalf of the ACLU that have elevated our society. prgtoken Lenora had a vital role in the Be HEARD Act, aimed at ending and creating consequences for workplace harassment. Her policies and initiatives were always inclusive and addressed the needs of communities that often times did not have a voice. Lenora's legacy will never be forgotten, and she will always be remembered as a trailblazer who fought for equality and justice. I thank her for her commitment to this nation and offer my prayers and condolences to the many experiencing the pain of this devastating loss.
EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND SECURITY AT THE SOUTHERN BORDER ACT, 2019
Robert P. Casey, Jr. (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2019-6-26

I rise this evening to speak about the horrific humanitarian crisis at our southern border--the inhumane and truly despicable conditions under which migrants, including children, are being held by the U.S. Government. Children are being held for prolonged periods of time in facilities that are woefully inadequate, and that is an understatement. prgtoken On my left is a chart with some pictures. I want to walk through each of these pictures to talk about these children by name. Since September of 2018, these children have died while in United States Government custody. prgtoken I will start at the lower right-hand corner of the chart as you are facing the chart: Carlos Hernandez Vasquez, 16 years old; up here on the left top of the chart, Wilmer Josue Ramirez Vasquez, 2 years old; Darlyn Cristabel Cordova-Valle, age 10; Juan de Leon Gutierrez, right here on the other side of the chart, just 16 years old; Jakelin Caal Maquin--many know her name from the time when she passed away--just 7 years old; and finally, Felipe Gomez Alonzo, just 8 years old. prgtoken These six deaths occurred in the span of less than 1 year and are the first deaths in at least a decade. Mourning their deaths is not enough. I think we can at least agree on that. As much as anyone can mourn their deaths, that is not enough. We must act in light of this terrible darkness that these children experienced and that their families are living with and that our country is experiencing as well. prgtoken In recent weeks we have heard some of the reporting. There have been reports of children held without adequate medical attention, without food or water or sanitation. prgtoken Just by way of one searing example, Warren Binford, a law professor at Willamette University, who spoke with children at the Texas facility, said: Basically, what we saw are dirty children who are malnourished, who are severely neglected. They are being kept in inhumane conditions. They are essentially being warehoused, as many as 300 children in a cell, with almost no adult supervision. prgtoken This is a lawyer who is trained to understand and to explain these kinds of conditions. This isn't some casual observer. This is an expert in her field who is telling us this. She is not a Member of Congress. She is not an employee of the U.S. Government. She is a lawyer who saw this with her own prgtoken eyes--children who are malnourished, neglected, living in inhumane conditions, warehoused, with 300 children in a cell with no adult supervision. prgtoken This same law professor reported witnessing a 14-year-old--a 14-year- old--caring for a 2-year-old without a diaper, lack of medical care, with flu outbreaks and lice infestation. prgtoken Law Professor Binford said: It's the worst conditions I have ever witnessed in several years of doing these inspections. prgtoken That is what a trained professional is telling us about what is h
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2020
Theodore E. Deutch (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this entire prgtoken amendment, in particular, the Jayapal-Deutch amendment to bolster the Federal Election Commission's enforcement of prohibitions against foreign interference in American elections. prgtoken Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats said: ``Frankly, the United States is under attack,'' and, ``The intelligence community continues to be concerned about the threats of upcoming U.S. elections . . . in 2020.'' prgtoken FBI Director Christopher Wray said that our adversaries are ``adapting'' and ``upping their game'' as we head into the 2020 elections. prgtoken The people charged with protecting our national security are ringing alarm bells. That is why it is so troubling to hear President say that he would listen to a foreign power's election assistance and maybe--maybe--call the FBI. prgtoken Well, FEC Chair Ellen Weintraub responded to the President's comments with alarm, when she said: ``I would not have thought that I needed to say this. . . . Let me make something 100 percent clear: It is illegal for any person to solicit, accept, or receive anything of value from a foreign national in connection with a U.S. election.'' prgtoken It is true, she shouldn't have to say that, and Representative Jayapal and I shouldn't have to file this amendment. It should be clear to every American that our elections are for Americans to have a say in their government and should be defended against foreign interference. But, apparently, the President needs some clarity. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and support elections free from foreign interference.
AMERICANS DESERVE QUALITY HEALTHCARE
Lisa Blunt Rochester (Democrat, DE) \u2014 2019-6-26

since January, the House of Representatives has passed bills lowering prescription drug prices, strengthening protections for preexisting conditions, and making sure Americans can find affordable, quality health insurance coverage. prgtoken I know thousands of Delawareans, small businesses, and millennials all across the board are struggling to afford the healthcare that they need, and in 2019 that is unacceptable. prgtoken Many of us saw hope and help when the Affordable Care Act was passed, and my commitment to the American people is protecting the ground that we gained while strengthening this landmark legislation. prgtoken As part of that commitment, six bills stabilizing the ACA and lowering the cost of prescription drugs were incorporated into my bill, the MORE Health Education Act, and the entire package passed the House a few weeks ago. prgtoken This bill will help lower the cost of prescription drugs by bringing generics to the market faster, helping Americans understand health insurance options available to them, and protect those with preexisting conditions. prgtoken I am proud that this legislation passed the House of Representatives, and I look forward to working with the Senate to ensure that these bills become law. prgtoken Every American deserves quality healthcare that is accessible and affordable, and we will keep fighting for our States and for the country.
IN RECOGNITION OF THE LIFE OF PAUL PIMENTEL
William R. Keating (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of the life of Paul Pimentel, a resident of Edgartown, Massachusetts who leaves a legacy of service to his community. Paul was born and raised in Quincy and later Braintree, setting himself apart early as a star athlete and student body president at Braintree High School before enrolling at Harvard University. prgtoken After graduation, Paul fulfilled his childhood dream of enlisting as a Naval officer, serving two combat tours in Vietnam as Chief Engineer of the USS Berkeley. Upon leaving the service and taking time to reflect on his time in the service and his dreams for the country, he became an advocate for Vietnam Veterans Against the War. He went on to achieve notable success in public service, becoming the youngest Massachusetts Deputy Secretary of State in the history of the office. prgtoken Looking for ways to assist as a private citizen, Paul would end up at the forefront of climate science in the 1970s. He developed Energistics in 1978 and Pequod Associates in 1980, breaking new ground to make conservation technology accessible before it was a worldwide priority. Many of the energy saving models he developed are now seen as industry standard. The independent cooperative Vineyard Power, his proudest professional achievement, was supported by a thorough community outreach campaign and would go on to provide over 800 megawatts of offshore wind power to the people of New England. prgtoken Sadly, Paul passed away on February 5, 2019. His commitment to the common good will live on through a loving family and the myriad projects he shaped. Madam , I am proud to honor the life of Paul Pimentel. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his many years of dedication to his community and his country.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2020
Bill Foster (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Mr. Chair, FinCEN's mission is critical to our national and economic security. It is charged with safeguarding the financial system from illicit use and combating money laundering. prgtoken Our amendment included in this en bloc directs FinCEN and its agency partners to make proactive efforts to identify and oversee one particular space, and that is cryptocurrency exchanges, wallets, and so-called cryptomixers that try to hide the source of cryptocurrency that is getting transmitted. prgtoken FinCEN regulates exchanges and money-services businesses that deal with ordinary fiat currency. As FinCEN recognized early on, money transmitters that deal in cryptocurrency are functionally no different, and it only makes sense that they should also have to comply with anti- money-laundering regulations. prgtoken That is why, since 2011, FinCEN regulations have made it clear that these kinds of entities are subject to the Bank Secrecy Act. More needs to be done, however. prgtoken As of October 2018, only 13 out of the top 100 crypto exchanges had reportedly registered with FinCEN, even though most crypto funds from illicit entities flow through these exchanges. prgtoken We need to send a message to these agencies that they cannot hide in plain sight, that they should live up to their obligation or FinCEN and its law enforcement partners will find them and hold them accountable. prgtoken I am a big proponent of innovation, including in the fintech space, but no one wants to see innovative products and services being used to support terrorism, facilitate human trafficking, or enable criminals to carry out fraud, identity theft, ransomware, or extortion. prgtoken That is why I hope my colleagues join me in supporting this en bloc amendment, so we can encourage FinCEN to continue its important work in the virtual currency space. The integrity and safety of our financial system depend on these efforts. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc amendment so that we can encourage responsible innovation in financial services while ensuring that such innovation is not undermined by criminals who engage in money laundering, illicit financing, and a whole host of other cyber-enabled crimes.
OATH CEREMONY ON JULY 4, 2019
Peter J. Visclosky (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Madam , it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate the fifty-one individuals who will take their oaths of citizenship on July 4, 2019. In true patriotic fashion, on the day of our great Nation's celebration of independence, a naturalization ceremony will take place, welcoming new citizens of the United States of America. This memorable occasion, coordinated by the League of Women Voters of the Calumet Area and presided over by Magistrate Judge Andrew Rodovich, will be held at The Pavilion at Wolf Lake in Hammond, Indiana. America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the world to the United States in search of better lives for their families. The oath ceremony is a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America--that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize that nowhere else in the world offers a better opportunity for success than here in America. On July 4, 2019, the following people, representing many nations throughout the world, will take their oaths of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Mounir Oumansour, Taimoor Syed, Johnson Y. Gah, Joseph Han, Alex Nguyen, Mubarak Bakhit Haroun, Naga Sudhakar Chodavarapu, Daniel Jaewon Kim, Elena Ugwoke, Brendan Chidobe Ugwoke, Rani Saxena, Sumesh Saxena, Zaira Nashley Velazquez, Giuseppe Mazzone, Nargis Natasha Yasir, Erika Anabel Saldivar, Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Maya Hamwi, Ibrahim Miss Lissane, Farouk Al Kurdi, Amparo Isabel Alban Montalvo, Ma Teresa Leon, Sikholisile Nyoni, Isabella Njeri Muturi, Lal Lian Mawi, Belinda Radiceska, Ljupco Radiceski, Milka Cocovska, Ananivi Apamba Komla, Blanca Estela Monsivais, Gianella Feoli Soto, Mauricio Leal, Mphasa Maria Mwanza, Sreelatha Chodavarapu, Rajko Vukobrat, Denise Alejandra Godinez, Antonio Manzo Gonzalez, Sirak Kifle Negash, Ahmed E. Khalil, Vidal Torres Alvarado, Eder Jahir Nunez Benitez, David Guillermo Barba, Ai Ong, Jagoda Petroska, Maria Julia Garcilazo, Gustavo Adolfo Osorio, Sergey Borisovich Leonov, Gisela Johanna Kreczmer, Marc Tuyizere, Muhammad Yasir Hanif Khan, and Francisco Javier Contreras Torres. Although each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . . of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they c
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2020
Andy Kim (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Mr. Chair, such time as I may consume. prgtoken My amendment today is a simple one. It provides more support for two critical programs that have helped jump-start small businesses, create jobs, and foster the American Dream. The Small Business Administration's Veterans Business Outreach Centers and Small Business Development Centers may not be household names to some, but they have been a lifeline and resource to small business owners across our country. prgtoken Veterans Business Outreach Centers provide counseling and training to eligible servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses. With 22 centers nationwide, this program provides the skills aspiring entrepreneurs need to get their ideas and businesses off the ground. At a time in which military spouse unemployment is more than six times the national average, these programs can help provide opportunities for those who have served and their families. prgtoken Small Business Development Centers also provide essential services to small business owners who fuel our economy. These centers have trained hundreds of thousands of Americans in developing business plans and accessing capital. These programs touch each and every one of our districts, but let me tell why it is important to the people of Burlington and Ocean Counties in New Jersey. prgtoken Small businesses are the backbone of the New Jersey economy. According to the Small Business Administration, approximately half of New Jersey's private-sector workforce is employed by a small business. prgtoken By voting for this amendment, we can empower these job creators to continue to strengthen our economy. prgtoken By voting for this amendment, we can give back to those who have served our country in uniform. prgtoken By voting for this amendment, we can continue to invest in our programs that have proven to work. prgtoken I urge adoption of this commonsense amendment. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
IN RECOGNITION OF PATRICK & DENISE GOGGINS' 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Richard E. Neal (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2019-6-26

. Madam , I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Patrick and Denise Goggins on the occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. This July 4th marks a special milestone for this couple and their family, and it is my pleasure to recognize it as such. prgtoken Pat and Denise were married on July 4, 1969, but their story begins even four years earlier when they met as high school sweethearts. Their life of love, marriage and family is truly heartwarming and worthy of recognition. From the purchase of their first home through President Johnson's Housing and Urban Development program for first-time homebuyers, to the births of their three daughters (Bridget, Erin, and Molly), and then the gifts of grandchildren, the Goggins exemplify the spirit of hardworking American families across the country. prgtoken Marriage is an institution undeniably linked to the fabric of our society. It is a union celebrated not only by the two partners, but by their friends and family alike. The nuptial celebrations of Patrick and Denise were no exception and are certainly still not today. Their marriage will be celebrated by close to 200 people in Cape Cod, Massachusetts this July 4th and will certainly be filled with the same warmth of the original, humble wedding reception of five decades prior. I extend my personal greetings to all those that will gather together that day in celebration of Pat and Denise. prgtoken Madam , once again, it is my pleasure to recognize the milestone of Patrick and Denise Goggins' 50th wedding anniversary. Their commitment to each other and their family is truly uplifting. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors as they continue their wonderful life together for years to come.
HONORING THE LIFE OF PETTY OFFICER RAUL GUERRA
Grace F. Napolitano (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2019-6-26

I rise today to honor the life of Petty Officer Raul Guerra and the work of the Bring Raul Home Committee. prgtoken Petty Officer Guerra was born in 1942, grew up in Los Angeles County, was beloved by his friends and family, and known for his love of journalism. prgtoken Petty Officer Guerra enlisted in the Navy Reserves in 1965 and was deployed to Vietnam as a Navy journalist. On the evening of October 8, 1967, Petty Officer Guerra volunteered for a combat mission to support a major airstrike over North Vietnam. His plane was tragically shot down and crashed. Due to heavy terrain and hostile territory, he was pronounced killed in action. His remains were not recovered. prgtoken A local paper, the Whittier Daily News, in 2007 reported that a local Navy seaman's remains had been found, which was part of a long process to return Petty Officer Guerra's remains home. prgtoken His former classmates, Ruben Valencia, and Donna and Gary Petersen formed the Bring Raul Home Committee. They worked over 12 years to diligently spread his story, search for living family members, and held many meetings with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. prgtoken The DPAA, in February 2019, notified the committee of the closure of Petty Officer Guerra's case, that he would finally return home, whereby he received full honors at LAX, Los Angeles International Airport, escorted by numerous, caring people. prgtoken Petty Officer Raul Guerra was finally laid to rest after 52 years on April 25, 2019. prgtoken I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of fallen Petty Officer Raul Guerra and recognize the dedication and years of work shown by the Bring Raul Home Committee.
EMERGENCY SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FOR HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND SECURITY AT THE SOUTHERN BORDER ACT, 2019
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2019-6-26

first, I thank the majority leader for understanding how strongly we feel on the ic side and how many Americans feel that the constitutional right of Congress to examine foreign conflict and potential war should be upheld. The fact that we will get a vote on the Udall amendment, which is something we have asked for, is only fair and only right. There may be differences of viewpoint on both sides, but the fact that it will be on the floor and be debated is exactly the right thing to do. It is something we want and have asked for, and I thank the majority leader for understanding that and allowing it to happen.