mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
SMALL ENTITY UPDATE ACT
Ann Wagner (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-5-30

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 2792, the Small Entity Update Act. prgtoken , the slated bills that we are considering today are the culmination of four hearings that the Capital Markets Subcommittee, which I have the honor and privilege of chairing, has held this year, where we heard from over a dozen witnesses, including founders of private and public companies, investors, former SEC Commissioners, security law practitioners, and even one of the authors of the IPO- related provisions of the JOBS Act. prgtoken All of these bills play a vital role in expanding investment opportunities for all Americans, improving access to capital for small businesses, and strengthening our public markets. prgtoken , 11 years ago, the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, or JOBS Act of 2012, was enacted into law by a divided Congress with the intention of increasing access to capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the United States. The purpose of the JOBS Act was to provide greater opportunities for small business owners and entrepreneurs to grow their companies and create jobs in their communities. prgtoken Despite the successes of the JOBS Act, there are still significant regulatory barriers that impede the growth of small businesses and hinder the competitiveness of job growth in the United States. prgtoken Small businesses, , make up 99 percent of all enterprises, employ almost half of the United States' workforce, and are disproportionately affected by these barriers. These companies represent the engine of our economy and are far too often subject to one-size-fits-all regulation. The lack of access to capital makes it challenging for small business owners to grow and expand their companies, which can limit job creation and economic growth. prgtoken That is why I introduced the Small Entity Update Act. This bipartisan bill would direct the SEC to conduct a study, followed by a rulemaking that is consistent with the results of such study every 5 years. This study would focus on defining the term ``small entity'' under the Regulatory Flexibility Act. prgtoken Regulations often impose disproportionate burdens on startups, small businesses, and other small entities. Small entities simply can't afford the number of lawyers and regulatory experts that large multinational firms can to comply with every regulation while still being able to afford the cost of doing business. prgtoken The government cannot and should not treat a small startup in my hometown of Ballwin, Missouri, with seven employees as it would a Fortune 500 company. The reality is that the size of companies and the underlying makeup of market forces behind them change over time, which is why my bill requires the SEC to reevaluate their small business definition every 5 years. What makes sense for companies today in terms of regulatory compliance may not in 5 years. prgtoken My bill address
Debt Ceiling (Executive Session)
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-5-30

4 months ago, McCarthy invited President to start negotiating an agreement to preserve the full faith and credit of the United States and to begin to get our Nation's financial house in order. prgtoken The stood ready to discuss a responsible way forward, but for weeks on end, the administration and the Senate ic leader insisted that there would be no discussion of reasonable reforms to Federal spending. Washington wanted a green light to spend more taxpayer dollars with no strings attached. Well, the people's House had other plans. prgtoken McCarthy and his team committed to what I said repeatedly was the only way to get an outcome. Just as with 7 of the last 10 debt limit agreements in recent history, House s focused on reaching a bipartisan agreement to put reasonable caps on Federal spending. prgtoken The 's deal secures reductions in discretionary spending. But this top-line achievement is actually just part of the story. House s also succeeded in clawing back $28 billion in unspent COVID emergency funds, they eliminated this year's budget for hiring new IRS agents, and they expanded work requirements to put more Americans on sustainable paths out of poverty. They put an important down payment on permitting reform by imposing a shot clock on the costly bureaucratic reviews that hamstrings infrastructure projects. And they forced the executive branch to start balancing the cost of new regulations with corresponding cuts--a move that would have saved taxpayers $1.5 trillion in just the past 2 years. prgtoken Last fall, the American people elected a divided government. After 2 years of total ic control--2 years of radical spending and runaway inflation--they decided to send a majority to the people's House. They decided to require that President and Washington start working with s on the biggest issues facing our country. prgtoken Now divided government means negotiated deals. It means nobody gets everything they want. But in this case, it means the American people got a whole lot more progress toward fiscal sanity than Washington wanted to give them. prgtoken McCarthy and House s deserve our thanks. This spring, they passed the only viable legislation that both preserved our Nation's full faith and credit and made real progress toward getting Federal spending under control. prgtoken House s' unity forced President to do his job. It is really just that simple. And now Congress will vote on legislation that locks in that important progress. prgtoken s have a tremendous opportunity to take on an existential challenge facing our economy and future generations of Americans. We have a chance to start bringing Washington ' reckless spending to heel. Soon it will be the Senate's turn to put this historic agreement on the President's desk. Let's
Online Safety (Executive Session)
Marsha Blackburn (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-5-30

the dangers children encounter when they go online have increased exponentially since social media platforms took over our lives. Just a few years ago, cyber bullying dominated our conversations about kids and the virtual world. Now those cyber bullies are joined by drug dealers, sex traffickers, pedophiles, and influencers who glorify mental illness, eating disorders, and self- harm. prgtoken Last week, the administration decided to pay some attention to this pressing issue. While I am glad to see the White House get behind us on this issue, I would be remiss if I didn't point out that they are far behind. prgtoken Over the past 2\1/2\ years, the Senate has dedicated an incredible amount of time and energy to investigating the harm these threats have inflicted on young people. When Senator Blumenthal and I led the Commerce Committee's Consumer Protection Subcommittee, we hosted five separate hearings investigating the inherent dangers children encounter online. The Judiciary Committee hosted a sixth this past February. During those hearings, we produced more than 500 pages of testimony. This is just the testimony from witnesses who have come before us in those hearings. prgtoken In addition to this testimony, we have collected hundreds more pages of evidence illustrating the devastating impact Big Tech has had on the lives of children and teens. We also found proof that these online companies knew they had lost control of their platforms, and still, even knowing it, still they made the affirmative choice to not protect their users. They did this knowing children were at risk. prgtoken On top of that are the additional hours we spent talking to parents who tried to protect their children. We also independently confirmed just how easy it is for predators to target young people with dangerous content. prgtoken I would implore my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to confront what is in these pages of testimony. Familiarize yourself with what we heard during these hearings and in conversations--heartbreaking conversations--with families and stakeholders. As you do, remember that the examples we discussed in committee weren't just available for children to access; in many cases, there was no hiding from it, which seems unbelievable until you actually speak to young people about how pervasive this harmful content and many times illegal content is. This is why Senator Blumenthal and I spent time talking to kids and teens about their firsthand experiences with dangerous content. prgtoken The Presiding Officer knows this issue well. He has worked on kids' online privacy. He did that when he was in the House, and he has done it in the Senate. So he knows the importance of the steps we have taken not to limit the conversation just to grownups but to talk to teens and children, and that is what we have done. No one has a better understanding of what is happening to teens online than teenagers. <|
Vote on Papillion Nomination (Executive Session)
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2023-5-30

. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from Wyoming (Mr. Barrasso), the Senator from Texas (Mr. Cruz), the Senator from South Carolina (Mr. Graham), the Senator from Alaska (Ms. Murkowski), the Senator from Idaho (Mr. Risch), and the Senator from North Carolina (Mr. Tillis). prgtoken Further, if present and voting: the Senator from North Carolina (Mr. Tillis) would have voted ``yea.''
RECOGNIZING SWENSON'S DO IT BEST HARDWARE
Joni Ernst (Republican, IA) \u2014 2023-5-30

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 Swenson's Do it Best Hardware of Britt, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. prgtoken In 1977, 21-year-old Jon Swenson purchased the then-named Kreitinger Hardware in downtown Britt. The store was renamed Swenson's Do it Best Hardware and has been family-owned and operated ever since. They offer both home and outdoor tools and supplies, including rental power tool equipment. They can also provide pipe cutting, key cutting, and window or screen repair services in the shop. Swenson's Do it Best Hardware has an ``online warehouse'' of over 67,000 items and is a one-stop shop for all home improvement needs. In 2022, Swenson's Do it Best Hardware celebrated their 45th anniversary. prgtoken The team at Swenson's Do it Best Hardware is active in the Britt community. Jon Swenson has been a volunteer firefighter in the Britt Fire Department since 1978 and was named the fire chief in 2015. Additionally, and since 1974, Jon has filmed the football games at the West Hancock High School. Swenson's Do it Best Hardware has also been a sponsor of the high school's events and activities. In 2022, when RAGBRAI had a stop in Britt and Swenson's Do it Best Hardware's downtown storefront was used for photo opportunities for riders and tourists. They also provided a device charging station for the 2022 racers. They have also participated in Britt Chamber of Commerce events to support the local small business community. prgtoken Swenson's Do it Best Hardware's commitment to providing quality tools, equipment rentals, and repair services in northern Iowa is clear. I want to congratulate Jon Swenson and the entire team at Swenson's Do it Best Hardware for their continued dedication to providing home improvement supplies to Iowans. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.
CONDEMNING THE RISE OF ANTISEMITISM AND CALLING ON ELECTED OFFICIALS TO IDENTIFY AND EDUCATE OTHERS ON THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE JEWISH AMERICAN COMMUNITY
Darrell Issa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-5-30

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , Jewish American Heritage Month, first proclaimed by in 2006 and by each successive President since, recognizes the great contribution that the Jewish community has given to this country since its founding. Recognizing this month is particularly important because of the rise of anti-Semitism over the last few years. prgtoken Recently, , the Judiciary Committee heard testimony regarding anti-Semitism and the violence that has now erupted. prgtoken In our hearing, Barry Borgen told the committee about attacks on his son in New York City. Joseph Borgen was targeted simply for wearing his yarmulke and was beaten by several individuals for nothing other than being recognized as an observant Jew. He was kicked, punched, hit, and, in fact, pepper sprayed by his attackers in a horrific attack simply because of his faith. prgtoken At this time around the world, we see the rise of anti-Semitism. America for more than half a century, for almost a century, has become the beacon of freedom for the world. In that time, we have had to show the world that anti-Semitism has no place in America and should have no place in the rest of the world. prgtoken , .
Texas (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-5-30

we are back in session today after a week or so of being out of session. We have a habit of calling that a recess although it doesn't necessarily feel like a recess. Some people like to call it a home State work period, which seems a little awkward. Nevertheless, it was good to be back home, but it is also good to be back here in the Nation's Capital to do the work our constituents sent us here to do. prgtoken The term ``recess'' implies a restful and relaxing break from work, but for me and most of my colleagues, those recess weeks are some of the busiest ones of the year. Since the Senate gaveled out about 2 weeks ago, I have traveled across Texas to meet with my constituents, including time in Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Pasadena, and Dallas. When you have the privilege of representing 30 million Texans, it takes a little bit of effort just to get around the State, but we do it on a regular basis, and I am always invigorated by the interaction with the folks I work for. prgtoken Yesterday, of course, we celebrated Memorial Day. We did so in San Antonio yesterday with an incredible group of students who have been selected to attend America's military service academies. These young people are among the best and brightest in our State, and they have chosen to pursue a challenging and honorable career in our Nation's military. prgtoken Each Memorial Day, my office hosts a sendoff for these students, and it is far and away my favorite event of the year. prgtoken Now, these aren't just students I have recommended to the service academies; they are the ones--they include those recommended by any member of the Texas delegation. prgtoken We had about 500 people there in San Antonio yesterday, including about 100 students, and it was a great event. It is always inspiring to see these students answer the same call to serve that generations before them have answered. They are the next generation of military leaders. But, as we know, it is not just military leaders because, eventually, many of those folks will get into the private sector, as my parents and others did after World War II, and they become leaders in their own right in other capacities other than military. But it was a pleasure to spend the day celebrating the incredible journey that they are about to embark on. prgtoken I had a lot of fun kidding the parents because I said: Well, your son or daughter is getting a full ride to a service academy that is worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. And that always brings a big smile. Of course, that is not the main reason they go. The main reason they go is because they are young patriots and they work hard and demonstrated a lot of ability and self-discipline to get to where they are. But it was a delightful event. prgtoken Last week, I also had the chance to hear about how legislation that we passed last year called the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act actually was being implemented. As you
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2023-5-30

I rise today to recognize and celebrate Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Chairman Bobby Martin, who has dedicated years of service to the preservation and conservation of our natural resources. prgtoken In 2016, Governor Asa Hutchinson appointed Bobby to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, and since then, he has exemplified the very essence of public service, devoting himself to the noble cause of conservation. From a young age, Bobby enjoyed outdoor recreation. He became an avid outdoorsman from his first years duck hunting with his father near Wynne, which helped him become a lifelong, passionate conservationist with deep knowledge and appreciation for the natural resources throughout our State. prgtoken During his tenure at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, his hard prgtoken work and vision have paved the way for significant advancements in the protection and management of our State's rich wildlife and natural habitats. Under his guidance and vision, the commission has flourished, becoming a beacon of excellence and innovation in the field of conservation. prgtoken Bobby has been a leader in State and national conservation work, including helping Congress pass the landmark America's Conservation Enhancement Act to safeguard wildlife and ecosystems. He was instrumental in building the coalitions critical to advancing this legislation and protecting our natural resources for future generations to enjoy. He also helped develop the concept and plans for a highly successful shooting sports complex in Jacksonville. prgtoken His contributions have also been invaluable in communicating the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's priorities so our congressional delegation could support its efforts with Federal Agencies. He has illustrated and led through example the importance of building consensus and working together for a common goal. His commitment to environmental education and outreach programs has fostered a sense of stewardship among Arkansans of all ages through initiatives such as promoting shooting sports in schools. prgtoken I am so pleased that Bobby has used his leadership skills for public service. He is acknowledged as one of the most influential people in the retail community and has used those skills to think outside the box regarding the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, making sure the agency evolves and keeps pace with an ever-changing public demand. Bobby has demonstrated that ability in the business world and the conservation community has benefited immensely as he has used his deep knowledge, passion, and experience on its behalf. prgtoken He demonstrates what it means to go above and beyond in his role. His time as chairman is esteemed across The Natural State for his tireless work to preserve Arkansas's beautiful natural scenery and wildlife. As we recognize Bobby's years of service and dedication to conservation and celebrate his vision protect and enhance our beautiful
TRIBUTE TO LORI HOPPE
Steve Daines (Republican, MT) \u2014 2023-5-30

today I have the distinct honor of recognizing Lori Hoppe of Park County for her dedication to fostering excellence in agricultural education and across Park County. prgtoken In 2013, Lori saw an opportunity to bring agricultural education to her hometown of Gardiner; a quaint gateway community to Yellowstone National Park with a population of 800 people. She established Gardiner High School's first agriculture program and FFA chapter, which today proudly boasts a near 50-percent student body participation rate. The Gardiner FFA Chapter has consistently built a name for themselves as being fierce competitors; they are the first agricultural sales career development event team to not only champion the district contest, but also to qualify for the national convention. prgtoken As Gardiner FFA prepared for the national competition, their means of getting there was threatened when historic flooding impacted Park County. With a state of emergency declared and access to Yellowstone National Park halted, the lack of tourists required the cancellation of the local rodeo, with sales from the concession stand being the primary means of funding for Gardiner FFA's trip to the National FFA Convention and Expo. prgtoken Lori knew they needed to come up with a new fundraising idea if they wanted to compete at nationals. During the school year, the students built a utility trailer that they decided to try and sell at the Park County Fair. The community rallied behind the students and helped them raise more than five times their goal. The Gardiner FFA Chapter went on to make their community proud, earning a seventh place team finish, and one student placing third individually. prgtoken Now reaching her 10th year as an educator, Lori is receiving statewide recognition from the Montana Association of Agricultural Educators--MAAE--for being among the best ag instructors in the Treasure State. Her application will be forwarded on to the regional level where she will be evaluated alongside winners from other States. I am confident Lori will represent Montana well. prgtoken It is my distinct honor to recognize Lori Hoppe for her commitment to promoting agricultural education in Park County and throughout the Treasure State. The future of Montana agriculture is better off because of her tireless work. prgtoken Thank you, Lori. You make Montana proud.
STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS
Alex Padilla (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-5-31

I rise to reintroduce the Protecting Unique and Beautiful Landscapes by Investing in California, PUBLIC Lands Act. This measure would increase protections for over 1 million acres of Federal public lands throughout northwest California, the central coast, and Los Angeles, including nearly 600,000 acres of new wilderness, more than 583 miles of new wild and scenic rivers, and over 100,000 acres of an expanded national monument. prgtoken This legislation would preserve our public lands for the benefit of current and future generations and help protect California communities from the impacts of the climate crisis. prgtoken The PUBLIC Lands Act is grounded in the best conservation principles: It expands access to the outdoors for all, addresses disparities in access to nature, supports locally led efforts, and is based on science. prgtoken In northwest California, this bill would designate new wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, recreation and conservation areas, and forest and watershed restoration areas. Importantly, it would increase wildfire resiliency in northwest California, where the impacts of the climate crisis have resulted in more frequent and severe wildfires. prgtoken Along the central coast, the bill would designate nearly 250,000 acres of public land in the Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument as wilderness and establish a 400-mile-long Condor National Recreation trail, stretching from Los Angeles to Monterey County. The designations in the bill would protect the Central Valley's abundant biodiversity, including threatened and endangered species. prgtoken In Southern California, the bill would expand the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument to include more of the San Gabriel Mountain range. Los Angeles County is one of the most park-poor, densely populated, and polluted regions in the Nation, and this legislation would begin to rectify that by providing increased outdoor opportunities for Angelenos and ensuring that disadvantaged communities can benefit more easily from our public lands. prgtoken I want to highlight that this legislation protects existing water rights, property rights, and land-use authorities. The bill also does not create any new public lands--rather, it protects existing public lands through the designation as wilderness in order to keep these lands as untouched and wild as possible. prgtoken The science is becoming increasingly clear that we must conserve 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030 as part of our efforts to solve the climate crisis, protect nature, and save America's wildlife. This legislation would provide significant progress on that goal, helping California and the administration meet our 30x30 goals and reverse the worst effects of climate change. prgtoken The bill would also provide outdoor recreation opportunities for park-poor communities. It is imperative that as we conserve our public lands, we do so in a