mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Abortion (Executive Calendar)
Patty Murray (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2022-5-18

this is a dark, enraging moment for our Nation. I have made that clear already, and so have so many of our ic colleagues. But I am speaking on the floor today because we cannot back down for a minute. We cannot lose sight of the terrifying reality that s want to end the right to abortion, and they are within weeks of accomplishing that goal. prgtoken Very soon, the Supreme Court is set to overturn Roe v. Wade and fulfill s' decades-long goal of controlling women's bodies and rolling back everyone's fundamental right to decide whether or not to start a family. prgtoken Let me say that again because it is shocking, and it is true. In a matter of weeks, women across the country will lose a constitutional right they have had for half a century. The steady march forward to secure women's rights that generations before us fought for will be reversed, and my daughter and granddaughters will have fewer rights than I did. prgtoken Women will be forced to carry pregnancies to term when it is not right for them, and s will be responsible. This is the future that they have been fighting for. This is the America that they want, and they are not done yet. prgtoken s are hell-bent on rolling back the clock. Last week, they blocked our bill to protect Roe and the right to abortion, but they are not going to stop at overturning Roe and shredding patients' rights to make decisions about their own bodies. In States across the country, lawmakers are banning abortion without exceptions. They are targeting people who help a women get an abortion, doctors who are providing essential healthcare, friends and family members who are just supporting a loved one, and even the drivers just doing their job and helping patients get to medical appointments. prgtoken s are working around-the-clock to make it harder for women and families to control their own futures. They are coming after the birth control and IUDs that tens of millions rely on to plan a family on their own terms. They are coming after Plan B. They are even putting patients' ability to get the IVF care they need to help start a family at risk. prgtoken My colleagues right here in the Senate have made clear that they have their sights set on something really extreme: They want a nationwide ban on abortion. s aren't content with some States banning abortion and creating health crises that spill across State lines; they want to eliminate the right of every woman in America to get an abortion in Washington State and everywhere else. It is not hypothetical, and it is not some far-off worry. It is appalling, and it is completely backward. prgtoken s want to force us all with them into their time machine, but we are not going to let them. are fighting s' increasingly extreme policies at every step of the way. prgtoken In the coming weeks, we are going
Indo-Pacific Region (Executive Calendar)
Benjamin L. Cardin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2022-5-18

I take this time to review with my colleagues S. 4008, the Small Business COVID Relief Act of 2022-- legislation that Senator Schumer has set up for action tomorrow. prgtoken I want to start by saying that this bill--and the underlining bill that it deals with, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund--was a bipartisan product in which and s worked together to help an industry that was in desperate need, the restaurant industry. It provided relief for their revenue losses, and we were proud that we were able to get that passed. prgtoken The challenge was that after it was enacted, we provided $28 billion for the restaurants under the Restaurant Revitalization Fund. In reality, that was not enough money to cover the demand, and we found that where close to 100,000 restaurants were able to qualify and receive funds under that program, 170,000 were shut down through no fault of their own. prgtoken So we went to work, and s, in an effort to rectify that inequity and help an industry that was in desperate need. prgtoken We filed legislation in August of last year. And I am proud that it was bipartisan, joined by many of my ic colleagues and colleagues. I want to single out Senator Roger Wicker, who has been the real champion on making sure that we worked in a bipartisan manner. We were joined on the side by Senator Murkowski, Senator Ernst, Senator Cassidy, Senator Hyde-Smith, Senator Collins, and Senator Blunt. And others have joined us during the process. prgtoken But I want to take you back a little bit before we filed that bill in August of last year. There was legislation filed that would replenish the funds at $60 billion because we thought $60 billion was going to be needed in order to complete the funding. I think Senator Sinema led the effort in filing that legislation. prgtoken The difference between the bill that was filed for $60 billion and the bill that we are going to be considering tomorrow is the bill tomorrow is $48 billion less. We were able to reduce the amount of dollars that were needed in order to carry this out. Some restaurants have closed. We have tightened up the rules. prgtoken And we can not only do that for $12 billion less than it was initially thought was going to be possible when we had bipartisan support last summer, but we are now able to expand it to other related industries--all of which have had bipartisan legislation in this body-- to provide relief. These are industries that were shut down as a result of COVID-19. They had tremendous revenue losses and incurred tremendous debt in order to stay in business. prgtoken So we provided in this bill--for the same $48 billion, we include help for our gyms. We include help for Minor League Baseball, professional leagues. We provide money for music venues. We provide money for border businesses. We provide money for the bus industry. We were able to do all tha
RECOGNIZING THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2022-5-18

. Madam , I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Department of Public Works Employee Appreciation Day by recognizing the District of Columbia Department of Public Works. prgtoken The D.C. Department of Public Works provides a number of services, including trash and recycling collection, snow removal, parking enforcement, fleet management and supporting events and demonstrations. prgtoken The D.C. Department of Public Works is home to a workforce of 1,500 employees. Many of these employees are D.C. residents, and their hard work and services contribute to the upkeep, maintenance, productivity and growth of D.C. Today, D.C. residents are joining together to show our appreciation for our D.C. Department of Public Works employees. prgtoken Madam , again, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Department of Public Works Employee Appreciation Day by thanking the D.C. Department of Public Works for its tireless work.
COMMEMORATING THE ANTON ART CENTER
Andy Levin (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-5-18

. Madam , I rise today to commemorate the Anton Art Center of Mount Clemens, Michigan on its historic building being designated as a place worthy of preservation in the National Register of Historic Places. The building has served as a cherished and integrative resource in the Mount Clemens community. When the Art Center was first established in the historic Carnegie Library Building, three Mount Clemens Art Association members--Bea Wright, Gretchen Thompson, and Phyllis Wickens--set out to preserve the then Mount Clemens Public Library and save the historic building from demolition. prgtoken In 1904, the Mount Clemens Library opened its doors to the public after a year of construction. This building is unique to the history of Mount Clemens, as it was one of approximately 2,500 libraries funded by Andrew Carnegie throughout the world. The library drew hundreds of visitors coming to explore Mount Clemens' famous mineral baths during the early 1900s. In 1963, the library was converted to include three galleries, an art studio, a meeting area, a pottery studio, a kiln room, and offices. In 1969, the library was moved to a new building and the original building changed its primary role to a non-profit known as The Art Center. prgtoken It is incredible to see how the Anton Art Center has created engaging programs for all ages centered around empowering those involved in the arts. When local businessman Gebran Anton led a fundraising effort to expand the building in 2006, the Art Center was able to add a gift shop to support the work of local artists, increase gallery space, and increase classroom space. As a cherished resource to Macomb County it is clear the mission of the Anton Art Center is alive and well today. prgtoken In 2022, the Anton Art Center provides an open and welcoming atmosphere that brings prgtoken together a wide audience, instills support for the arts, and is a focal point for arts programming and works toward inclusion, diversity, equity, and access in all they do. In Macomb County and throughout Southeastern Michigan, the Anton Art Center continues to be a strong leader in advocating for local arts and artists. It is essential that we recognize the Anton Art Center for its long history and lasting contributions. The Anton Art Center also holds a deep personal significance to me, as my family and I have attended a number of programs there over the years. prgtoken On behalf of Michigan's 9th District, it is my honor to recognize the work of the Anton Art Center's leaders, workers, and community members for their dedication and perseverance in promoting this historic building. Their work will ensure that future generations are able to visit the building and reflect on the rich history that makes Mount Clemens the wonderful city it is today.
INFANT FORMULA SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2022
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2022-5-18

I rise in strong support of H.R. 7790, the Infant Formula Supplemental Appropriations Act which would provide $28 million in emergency supplemental appropriations to address the shortage of infant formula in the United States. prgtoken I thank my good friend and colleague, Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro, for introducing this important bill that addresses the ongoing national crisis in shortages of infant baby formula. prgtoken The bill provides appropriations for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to: prgtoken address the current shortage of FDA-regulated infant formula and certain medical foods in the United States; and prgtoken prevent future shortages by taking necessary steps to block fraudulent products from entering the U.S. market. prgtoken This is the first time in recorded memory that our Nation has had a substantial shortage of infant formula. prgtoken Babies are in need and parents and caregivers are desperate to find formula to feed their children. prgtoken As the founder and Chair of the Congressional Children's Caucus, I have worked to address the needs of women, families, and children. prgtoken On Saturday, May 14, 2022, I hosted a baby formula giveaway and was joined by the National Association of Christian Churches (NACC), a 501(c)(3) organization to provide free baby formula to eight hundred families in need of formula for the babies. prgtoken The formula provided would only last a few days, but it was important because it gave families a few more days to find more formula for their children. prgtoken I am in strong support of this bill and H.R. 7791, a bill to amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to establish waiver authority to address certain emergencies, disasters, and supply chain disruptions, which includes providing relief during this baby formula crisis. prgtoken I serve on the House Committees on the Budget and Homeland Security, both of which have oversight or funding responsibilities for addressing this current crisis. prgtoken As many parents know, there has been a short supply of baby formula nationwide for months, due to pandemic-related supply chain issues. prgtoken That shortage is now a crisis after four children became sick, and two died, after suspected bacterial contamination of formula which originated from Abbott Nutrition's formula plant in Sturgis, Michigan. prgtoken The FDA's Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation (CORE) Network, along with the CDC and state and local partners investigated the issue. prgtoken According to the FDA, CORE is no longer investigating the incident, but the FDA established an Incident Management Group (IMG) on April 1, to continue to work on supply chain and food safety issues. prgtoken Although the source of the contamination has been determined and the investigation has ended, the baby formula shortage problems continue to remain around the country, and the recall is still in effect. prgtoken Currently, the nationwide out-of-stock rate for baby formul
CONDEMNING RISING ANTISEMITISM
Lucille Roybal-Allard (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-5-18

. Madam , condemning Rising Antisemitism, H. Res. 1125, acknowledges the multitude of contributions that American Jews have made to our nation. This legislation also condemns the documented and dangerous rise of Antisemitism globally and domestically. prgtoken This month we celebrate Jewish American History Month and remember the contributions that Jewish people have made to our nation. As a Nation of immigrants, the United States is better and stronger because Jewish people from all over the world have chosen to become American citizens. Since first arriving in the America's in 1654, Jewish Americans have achieved great success, strengthened our country, and helped shape our way of life. prgtoken Through their deep commitment to faith, family, and community, Jewish Americans remind us of a basic belief that guided the founding of this Nation. We must take the opportunity to not only remember these contributions, but also thank the many Jewish Americans who defend our ideals as members of the United States Armed Forces. prgtoken I am proud to vote for H. Res. 1125 today. Anti-Semitic attacks and rhetoric must be met with clear voices of condemnation. Our Nation is facing a rise in Anti-Semitism and White Supremacist extremism. I will lend my voice to denounce Antisemitism today and every day and continue to stand in solidarity with Jewish communities in California and across our Nation.
OPIOID CRISIS
Rashida Tlaib (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-5-18

I rise today to express my greatest concern and the urgency to act now to address our Nation's opioid crisis and drug overdoses. prgtoken At the height of the pandemic in 2020 we saw record numbers of overdoses across the country, and in Michigan we saw even more alarming rates. In 2020, the opioid crisis claimed the loved ones of over 2,400 Michiganders and communities like Ecorse, Michigan, in the 13th District, has seen the highest overdose rates in our State. prgtoken The physical and mental health of our communities are under siege. We must do more and act with urgency to save lives. Accessibility to preventive treatments and resources for harm reduction is critical in keeping our communities safe. prgtoken Also, we must not forget the importance of holding for-profit Big Pharma companies accountable in fueling this epidemic through the sale of higher doses of opioids to our communities. We must make the bold action to remove the stigma as well of this crisis, create equitable treatment plans, and expand access to harm reduction tools for those who need help. prgtoken I applaud the administration for understanding the importance of this issue, but our communities can't wait another year for a grant or another study. We must hold the corporate profiteers accountable and get the boots on the ground to address this crisis.
Immigration (Executive Session)
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-5-18

the majority leader reminds us of the tragedy that occurred in Buffalo over the weekend and how the shooter was somehow captivated by the notion of replacement theory--a theory which is so insane and so mean-spirited that it ignores what this country is all about. prgtoken A few minutes ago, over at what they call the House swamp, we held a press conference. Senator Alex Padilla of California, myself, Congresswoman Ross, and Congressman Bera met with a group of young people. There were about 50 of them. Some were high school age; some were in college. They are the sons and daughters of people who came to the United States on H-1B visas. These are visas where people are allowed to come here for a period of years and work, and the visas can be renewed. prgtoken Children and families who accompany them are growing up in America, living in America, while the breadwinner goes off to work each day, but the clock is ticking. When the kids of these visa holders reach the age of 21, they are subject to self-deportation. In other words, they have no legal rights in America to remain. prgtoken The reason that they are in suspense for so long is that the green card backlog can be decades while the parents are waiting for permission to become legal in the United States on a permanent basis. So these young people live in uncertainty. prgtoken Senator Padilla's bill is an effort--and I join with him in that bill--an effort to give them the opportunity to earn their way to citizenship, to become legal in America. Why would we give up this talent? These young people have grown up in America. They have prgtoken been successful in school. They have participated in community activities. They are ready to be part of America's future, I can tell. prgtoken One young woman got up there and told the story of how she came to California with her parents under similar circumstances. She now is completing her Ph.D. in biochemistry at Cornell University. She wants to go into cancer research. Is America better if we force her to leave this country at this point? She doesn't think so. She thinks she can make this a better nation and better world if she can stay in America. prgtoken The folks who are so dead set against immigration ought to just pause for a moment and meet the people we are talking about, the people who are coming into this country, taking the jobs which Americans don't want to take, doing things which Americans aspire to but don't achieve, and many other aspects of our life that are really enriched by their presence. prgtoken So I would urge my colleagues to support us in this bipartisan effort for this bill. But I would also urge them to step back and make it clear, the ``replacement theory'' is an insane approach to America. It ignores our history; it ignores our future; and it ignores the reality of our economy today.
RECOGNIZING NATIONAL ROOFING WEEK (NRW) AND THE NATIONAL ROOFING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION (NRCA)
Raja Krishnamoorthi (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-5-18

. Madam , today I rise in recognition of the National Roofing Contractors Association and its efforts to promote the roofing industry and the work of its members through the designation of June 5-11, 2022, as National Roofing Week. prgtoken A roof is one of the most critical parts of any home or business. It serves as the first line of defense against natural elements, such as rain, snow, or wind, and yet it is often taken for granted until it falls into disrepair. National Roofing Week is meant to honor the thousands of roofing-related businesses and workers across the country, as well as the industry's commitment to public service. National Roofing Week is a valuable reminder of quality roofing's significance for every home and business across the U.S. prgtoken Established in 1886 and headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, NRCA is one of the oldest trade associations and the voice of professional roofing contractors worldwide. NRCA has nearly 4,000 roofing company members who represent the entire roofing supply chain. NRCA uses its vast network of roofing contractors and industry-related members for the installation of new construction and replacement roof systems on commercial and residential structures throughout America. Most of its members are small, privately-held businesses that provide family- sustaining jobs for thousands of hardworking individuals that make up the backbone of our Nation's economy. prgtoken Professional roofing contractors provide vital services to their communities, on and off the clock. NRCA members will recognize National Roofing Week June 5-11 by supporting numerous charitable projects, employee training programs, and other activities across the nation. I commend NRCA and the vital role the organization and its members play in every community, and I ask my colleagues to join me in acknowledging their contributions during National Roofing Week.
PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICER SUPPORT ACT OF 2022
Angie Craig (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2022-5-18

Cory Slifko was a father of two, a husband, and an accomplished veteran of the South St. Paul Police Department. He spent 20 years on the force, eventually working his way up to serve as a sergeant. prgtoken But Cory also spent 20 years witnessing the unthinkable and unimaginable and was ultimately diagnosed with PTSD. On November 5, 2019, Cory lost his life to completed suicide, leaving behind his wife, Katie, and their children. prgtoken Now, there is not a doubt in my mind that Cory's death occurred as a result of his service in the line of duty. But today, Katie's family has not been able to access the benefits that Cory earned in service to our community. prgtoken It is vital that these programs don't just protect our law enforcement officers from physical harm but also from mental injuries they endure in service to our communities. prgtoken We can change that today. It is time we right this wrong and offer some long-overdue support to Katie, who has honored Cory through her advocacy. I urge all of you to join me in voting ``yes'' on this bill.