mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
National Country Music Month (Executive Session)
Marsha Blackburn (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-10-30

well, it is Country Music Month, and in Nashville, you will hear people say ``it all begins with a song.'' prgtoken And, indeed, when we think about the playlists on our phones, when we think about the songs that frame our life, that is very true. And we love the fact that we get to celebrate the creative community every single year during Country Music Month. And this week, the Senate should pass a resolution that Senator Kaine and I have filed. It is designating October as National Country Music Month. prgtoken Now, Bristol, TN, Bristol, VA, right there on the State line, that is the birthplace of country music. So you have got a little bit of Tennessee and a little bit of Virginia, and we share that richness and that history. And what our resolution does is to highlight our States'--Tennessee's and Virginia's--rich, shared history of fostering creativity, of dreaming those big dreams, and then setting those dreams and thoughts to words and music. prgtoken The music that these artists, songwriters, and musicians create has had a profound impact not only on country music as a genre but on the evolution of American music. prgtoken Tennessee artists have the unique power to unite us as Americans. With that in mind, I want to thank my colleagues in advance for celebrating our creative community with us and helping designate October as National Country Music Month. But our work is not done. These musicians need our help getting paid for their art, controlling the business side of their careers, and protecting their intellectual property. prgtoken I want to highlight a few bills this body must pass to maintain our position as a cultural and artistic leader and a creative hub. The United States is the only democratic nation in the world where artists are not compensated for the use of their songs on AM/FM radio. Now, as I said, we are the only democratic nation that does not compensate these artists. Now, Iran and North Korea are two of the only other countries with this distinction. prgtoken Senator Padilla and I have introduced a bipartisan piece of legislation--the American Music Fairness Act--which would right this wrong and ensure performers are compensated when their songs are played on the radio. prgtoken Now, Senator Padilla and I could probably have a great discussion about, Does California have more artists and singers and songwriters or does Tennessee? But I think Tennessee probably has more of those artists and songwriters. prgtoken Now, not being paid for the use of their music on radio has been a decades-long injustice that hurts Americans at home and abroad. As I said, the United States is the only democratic nation that does not pay for that radio play. So the majority of foreign nations--those who already pay their own artists for radio airplay--currently withhold royalties from American music creators simply because the United States does not reciprocate by paying their performers.
Border Security (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-10-30

last Thursday, I traveled back to my home State of Texas but this time to the U.S.-Mexico border, along with Senator Cruz--my colleague from Texas--as well as three of our non- Texas Senate colleagues. Senators Barrasso, Lee, and Ricketts joined us for a series of tours and meetings in the Rio Grande Valley, which is unlike any other place in America. prgtoken This has been one of many times that Senator Cruz and I have welcomed our colleagues to the border because every time I hear people in Washington, DC, talk about the border, it is most likely something they have gleaned from movies or a novel that they have read somewhere. It is not based on reality. prgtoken And the truth is, the reality at the border has changed substantially from years ago when illegal immigration was primarily people coming to the United States to work and send money home. It has changed entirely to a global human smuggling enterprise that enriches the criminal organization to organize it, charging tens of thousands of dollars a head to people they smuggle into the United States. And if you come from special interest countries, like Iran, Syria, for example, you may have to pay tens of thousands of dollars, but you can still make your way in because of the broken border policies of the administration, which I will talk about here in a moment. prgtoken It really is a shame that such a beautiful, vibrant region of our country that has benefited tremendously from the opportunities that come from living along an international border has been damaged and hurt in such an unfortunate way by the flood of humanity and drugs coming across. prgtoken Legitimate trade and travel have shaped the unique culture of our border and serve as a boon not just to local economies but to the entire American economy. But like so many other areas along the U.S.- Mexico border, this region has become overwhelmed by the weight of the current border crisis. prgtoken Last month alone, Border Patrol's Rio Grande Valley Sector--just one of many sectors of the Border Patrol--logged more than 45,000 border crossings. In the last year, nearly 340,000 migrants have crossed the Rio Grande Valley Sector, and, overwhelmingly, the administration has simply just released them into the interior of the United States, which has, in turn, proved to be a magnet for more people to come. prgtoken If, in fact, the administration wanted to deter illegal immigration, they would stop people from coming to prgtoken the border and entering the country illegally, and it would send people back who somehow made it over. That would act as a deterrent. prgtoken But right now, notwithstanding the messages of people like Mayor Adams, from New York City, when he recently went to Mexico City, he said: Don't come. Don't come--well, the people who make the dangerous journey from their home to the border and into the interior of the United States, they frequently have
RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PINK PONY
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-10-30

it is my honor to congratulate The Pink Pony of Mackinac Island on their 75th anniversary. A bright sight at the end of the ferry dock, The Pink Pony is widely celebrated for their extraordinary live music, refreshing drinks, and mouthwatering whitefish dip. prgtoken In 1948, as a part of the Seahorse Cottages, the pub first opened its doors. Though it wasn't until a renewal project by the original owners in 1956 when The Pink Pony was given its iconic name and design. Today, the restaurant maintains its classic warm feel while continuing to provide outstanding service and a welcoming atmosphere. prgtoken The Pink Pony has become a focal point for the residents and tourists alike. Sitting at the end of the Port Huron to Mackinac Sailboat Race, the bar is a favorite of sailboat racers and features the ``Pink Pony Yacht Club'', complete with pennants from competitors from all over the world. prgtoken Critically acclaimed as one of the best outdoor bars in the United States, The Pink Pony consistently receives rave reviews and national awards. Recognitions include `The Most Iconic Bar in Michigan' by Thrillist, and `One of America's Best Restaurants for Outdoor Dining' by the Daily Meal, as well as many more accolades. prgtoken , it is my honor to recognize The Pink Pony, for its 75th anniversary. I wish The Pink Pony many more years of success and wish the crew the best in all of their future endeavors.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF PUTNAM COUNTY VETERAN OF THE YEAR, JOHN MULLINS
Robert E. Latta (Republican, OH) \u2014 2023-10-30

I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. John Mullins of Ottawa, Ohio, who has been named Putnam County Veteran of the Year. Every year, the Putnam County Veterans Service Commission recognizes a veteran from their county who has been honorably discharged, embodies the spirit of professional excellence, and has significant off-duty community service. After reviewing all the nominees, Mr. Mullins was selected for the honor. prgtoken Mr. Mullins first entered the U.S. Armed Forces in 1980 and served in the U.S. Air Force. After leaving the Air Force in 1992, Mr. Mullins continued serving his community by joining the Ottawa Police Department. He served the City of Ottawa for twenty-five years as part of the police department, while also spending time as a volunteer firefighter for the Ottawa Fire Department. After leaving the police department, Mr. Mullins went on to become a deputy sheriff for the Putnam County Sheriffs Office where he is currently serving. prgtoken Outside of his public service career, Mr. Mullins has been involved in the VFW, AmVets, and many other organizations that help raise awareness and fund veteran programs. He has helped with the POW/MIA programs for Putnam County while also organizing Ottawa Honor Guard for funerals and other events. Wherever it is possible to help a veteran in need, Mr. Mullins has dedicated his time to do so. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Mr. John Mullins of Ottawa, Ohio, on his selection as the Putnam County Veteran of the Year. On behalf of the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Ohio, I wish John all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for service to Putnam County and our Nation.
RECOGNIZING CRAYONS 2 PENCILS
Joni Ernst (Republican, IA) \u2014 2023-10-30

as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Crayons 2 Pencils of Norwalk, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week during National Women's Small Business Month and National Veterans Small Business Week. prgtoken Owned and operated by husband and wife duo Matt and Jill Larsen in Norwalk, IA, Crayons 2 Pencils is an early learning center and recreation center providing childcare services to the Norwalk community. Following her career in corporate America, Jill's start in early childhood learning and development was in 2008, when she taught 13 kids in her home. In 2015, Jill partnered with her friend Cindy Gavin to use the same childcare curriculum in each of their homes. In 2016, Jill and Cindy were able to move their childcare operation into one location when they opened the Crayons 2 Pencils Early Childhood Center. Over the years, they have grown to 63 employees, with additional positions available over the summer months. Crayons 2 Pencils currently provides care to 281 children. prgtoken In 2020, Matt joined Crayons 2 Pencils full-time as a jack-of-all- trades driving the school bus, organizing construction projects, and handling the technology and security systems. In 2022, Crayons 2 Pencils opened the Crayons 2 Pencils Recreation Center, which serves preschool through third grade and is equipped with a gym, sand volleyball court, stage, and additional classrooms. In 2023, Crayons 2 Pencils celebrated their seventh business anniversary. prgtoken Service to our country is integral to the Larsen family. Matt has served in the Iowa Air National Guard for 18 years and was deployed to Iraq. Following in Matt's footsteps, their son Jayden also serves in the Iowa Air National Guard, in addition to being a member of Iowa State University's Spirit Squad with his sister Joslyn. prgtoken Crayons 2 Pencils is also actively involved in the Norwalk community. They are active members of the Norwalk Area Chamber of Commerce, being one of the sponsors of the second annual Celebrate Norwalk Party in City Park in 2023 and hosting the Norwalk Career Fair in 2021. They have also served as a valuable resource to other childcare centers in the area by mentoring and teaching courses on childcare to directors and employees. prgtoken Crayons 2 Pencil's commitment to providing outstanding childcare services in Norwalk, IA, is clear. I want to congratulate Matt and Jill Larsen and the entire team at Crayons 2 Pencils for their continued dedication. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.
RETIREMENT SECURITY WORK ONGOING: AN UPDATE FOR NATIONAL RETIREMENT SECURITY MONTH
Tim Walberg (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-10-30

I rise today to discuss a critical issue impacting millions of Americans who work hard every day so that, when the time comes, they can enjoy their golden years in retirement. October is National Retirement Security month, so it is a good time to both reflect on the retirement reforms we have recently enacted and look ahead to the remaining work to be done. prgtoken America's retirement savings system and the retirement outlook for millions has dramatically improved because of Congress's bipartisan work over the last few years. Our private sector retirement savings system works well for many employees and employers, but additional improvements could help more Americans achieve a successful retirement for all. prgtoken As a senior member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee. I was proud to play an active role in helping draft and advance the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 into law prgtoken last year. Building on the great work Congress achieved with the SECURE Act of 2019, SECURE 2.0 included almost 100 provisions that will help employers offer plans and assist employees in both beginning to save and saving more for retirement. I was especially pleased that my provision to reduce administrative costs for employers by increasing the cash-out limit for the first time in over two decades was included in the final law. prgtoken One significant issue we still need to make more progress on is providing greater access to savings and income options that will help make sure retirees do not outlive their retirement savings. Americans collectively face a substantial retirement income gap. This means that the amount of money retirees have saved compared to what they need is $4 trillion short, with 40 percent of families likely to outlive their retirement savings, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. prgtoken This gap is concerning, and why guaranteed, or lifetime income has long been a critical issue for me. A few years ago, as the Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce's Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee, I was proud to chair a hearing on a range of bipartisan retirement bills. One of the bills we discussed that day was the Increasing Access to a Secure Retirement Act, which I introduced with Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester to remove a regulatory barrier for employers looking to offer lifetime income solutions to their employees. That important provision became law in the SECURE Act, but our efforts to ensure everyone has access to the best lifetime income options remain ongoing. prgtoken Earlier this year, I along with Representative Donald Norcross reintroduced the bipartisan Lifetime Income for Employees Act. This legislation would improve plan sponsors' and investors' default lifetime income options and take a crucial step to help American retirees have adequate income in retirement. Increasing the range of savings and income options wil
Introductory Statement on S. 3165
Alex Padilla (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-10-30

I rise to speak in support of the Homelessness and Behavioral Health Care Coordination Act of 2023, Which I introduced today. prgtoken On any given night in the United States, more than 582,000 people are experiencing homelessness. An estimated 20 percent of those experiencing homelessness also have a behavioral health condition, including substance use disorders. While we know that the primary driver of homelessness is the lack of affordable housing units, we know that these behavioral and substance use disorders and conditions can further exacerbate homelessness. prgtoken In order to ensure that those experiencing these conditions can obtain and retain housing, we need to ensure that both housing and social service providers have the resources to work together to increase access to supportive services. That is why I am proud to introduce this bill that would establish a grant program through the Department of Health and Human Services that would award 5-year grants of up to $500,000 to eligible entities to improve their capacity to coordinate culturally competent, trauma-informed behavioral health and homelessness services. prgtoken The bill would also create a Federal interagency working group, with representatives from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs, to advise on how to carry out the program. The working group would also develop materials to facilitate understanding between Agencies offering health services and homelessness services. prgtoken I want to thank Representative Madeleine Dean for introducing this bill with me, and I hope our colleagues will join us in taking this key step to addressing the homelessness and behavioral health crises.
Artificial Intelligence (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-10-30

I just got back from an important event at the White House where President announced a first-ever Executive order regulating AI, artificial intelligence. I applaud the President for breaking new ground with this Executive order, and I told him that the Senate will work very closely with the White House to do more on AI through legislation. prgtoken Tomorrow, the Senate's bipartisan AI gang--Senators Heinrich, Rounds, Young, and myself--will meet with President at the White House to talk about the next steps we can take to work together. While today's AI Executive order is a massive step forward, everyone agrees there is no substitute for congressional action. Congress must act, must take the next step to build upon, augment, and expand today's Executive order by the President, and we must do it through bipartisan legislation. prgtoken We must act with urgency but also with humility, balancing both innovation and commonsense safeguards because you can't do one without the other. We must act with urgency because other countries may take a lead on AI--and countries particularly with values we don't share. But we must act with humility because this is one of the hardest tasks Congress can undertake because AI is so complicated, so far-reaching, and changing all the time. prgtoken On Wednesday morning, the Senate will bring some of the Nation's leading minds in labor, business, and tech to talk about AI's impact on America's workforce, as part of our third AI Insight Forum. And on Wednesday afternoon, we will hold our fourth AI Insight Forum to discuss areas where AI will have an especially high impact, including healthcare, financial services, and our justice system. prgtoken If the Senate's AI Insight Forums have made anything clear so far, it is that the government must be involved in AI, must be ready to invest significantly toward AI innovation, and that we don't have a lot of time. AI development is moving quickly. Adversaries like the Chinese Government are moving quickly. So Congress has to act quickly too. That is why I am encouraged that the Senate's efforts on AI so far have been both balanced and bipartisan. prgtoken We need a lot of voices at the table, not just AI developers, although they must be there, but critics worried about AI's potential harms and advocates from labor and civil rights and other areas. Everyone must have a hand in shaping the legislation. prgtoken But our AI efforts must also remain bipartisan. They have to be because the goal is to pass legislation, and that will only happen if both sides work together. So far, thankfully, bipartisanship is precisely what we have seen at the committee level, and through our bipartisan AI gang--which I am proud to be part of alongside Senators Rounds, Young, and Heinrich--we are making very good progress. prgtoken So, again, I applaud the President for today's first-ever AI Executive order and note that the Senate wil
S. RES. 437
Chris Van Hollen (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2023-10-30

I commend the Senate for its passage of our bipartisan resolution, S. Res. 437, condemning anti-Semitism, including any anti-Semitic acts committed on university or college campuses. No one deserves to feel unsafe in their community or school or threatened because of their religion or ethnicity. On October 16, the FBI released their annual statistics on hate crimes, which stated that anti-Semitic hate crimes rose 25 percent from 2021 to 2022 and accounted for over half of all reported religiously based hate crimes. The onset of war between Israel and Hamas has further exacerbated these anti-Semitic threats and incidents targeting Jewish Americans and Jewish organizations here in the United States. As a member of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, I have an enduring and ongoing commitment to confront anti-Semitism wherever it rears its ugly head and to ensure we take all steps necessary to protect the Jewish community. prgtoken As we consider the best ways to counter anti-Semitism, it is important that we consult a range of definitions and tools to understand this problem. The White House's National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism notes several of these tools, including the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance--IHRA--definition of anti-Semitism, as well as the Nexus Document and other efforts. Moreover, as Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Ambassador Deborah Lipstadt made crystal clear during her confirmation hearing, ``Criticism of Israeli policy is not antisemitism.'' Unfortunately, there are some who are attempting to politically weaponize anti-Semitism by equating criticism of Israeli Government actions with anti-Semitism. These politically motivated charges only weaken good faith efforts to confront the very real danger of anti-Semitism. That is why our bipartisan resolution is so important during these troubling times; it sends a clear, united message that anti-Semitism cannot be tolerated and the fight against it should not become politicized.