mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL UNDER THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD RELATING TO "STANDARD FOR DETERMINING JOINT EMPLOYER STATUS"
Val T. Hoyle (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2024-1-12

. Madam , today I rise in strong opposition to H.J. Res. 98 which would repeal the National Labor Relations Board joint employer standard. prgtoken Under President , this rule was issued to protect workers' rights. Unfortunately, House s want to repeal this strong standard. Today, I have heard a lot of misleading claims about this joint employer standard. prgtoken Simply put, this issue is about whether or not employers have to come to the bargaining table where the employer controls the means and manner of the workers' employment. prgtoken As a member of the Congressional Labor Caucus and someone who has spent 25 years in the private sector putting food on the table for my family, I believe that when workers come to bargain over their wages and working conditions, then those employers who do control the means and manner of workers' employment--and that is a standard by which we determine whether someone is a direct employee or an independent contractor--should be at the bargaining table as required by law. prgtoken When workers do better, employers do better, and our country does better. prgtoken This is exactly what the administration's joint employer rule does. prgtoken What it doesn't do is impact the ability to utilize independent contractors when appropriate, and, as has been mentioned today, no franchisee has ever been categorized as a joint employer. This is more misinformation used to undermine the ability of workers to organize and bargain for better wages, hours, and working conditions. prgtoken This strong standard overturns the administration's rule, and it cracks down on corporations that outsource jobs and use independent contractors to walk away from their duties as an employer creating an unlevel playing field and unfair competition for those employers who are willing to provide fair wages, hours, and safe working conditions for their workers as per the letter of the law. prgtoken In seeking to overturn the NLRB's new and stronger joint employer standard, House s are working to help bad employers avoid their responsibility to employees and are undermining workers across this country. prgtoken Madam , I urge my colleagues to vote against this antiworker resolution.
HONORING DR. JOHN LOUIS FLATEAU
Yvette D. Clarke (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-1-12

I rise on this day to celebrate the extraordinary life of my dear brother and friend, Dr. John Louis Flateau, who was laid to rest this past Wednesday. prgtoken Dr. Flateau, a beloved scholar and public servant, dedicated his life to championing justice, equality, public service, and political empowerment. prgtoken His contributions spanned politics, education, and advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on Brooklyn, New York City, and New York State. prgtoken His legacy extends beyond the policies he championed. It lives on in the lives of many he touched. He was not merely a legislative force. He was a force to be reckoned with. He was a friend, confidant, and political mentor to so many, including both me and my mother, Dr. Una Clarke. prgtoken He had a profound impact on the lives of so many, from his tenure as a Medgar Evers College professor to his work in advancing voting rights. prgtoken As we reflect on Dr. Flateau's life, let us remember the countless stories of those who found hope and empowerment through his advocacy. prgtoken In his absence, we must continue to carry the torch that he lit to ensure that his vision continues to manifest itself. prgtoken Though Dr. Flateau may no longer be physically with us, the impact he made will echo on from generation to generation to come. prgtoken He is now with the ancestors, and he will be dearly and deeply missed.
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL UNDER THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD RELATING TO "STANDARD FOR DETERMINING JOINT EMPLOYER STATUS"
Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2024-1-12

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken Madam , I rise in opposition to H.J. Res. 98, a Congressional Review Act resolution to repeal the National Labor Relations Board's joint employer rule, which the Board finalized last October. prgtoken Through their unions, workers should be able to negotiate for higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces. However, that is not the case for millions of Americans, including janitors, housekeepers, cooks, and many others who are employed through subcontracts or temporary agencies. prgtoken The rise of what is called ``fissured workplace,'' where firms increasingly use overlapping arrangements of contracting, subcontracting, and temping, has weakened workers' bargaining power and allowed large corporations to evade bargaining obligations and liabilities. prgtoken For example, if employees of a subcontractor were to unionize, the subcontractor could refuse to bargain over pay, hours, workplace safety, or other issues because its contract with the prime contractor essentially sets the wages for the employees. Whoever is setting the wages ought to be the one at the bargaining table. prgtoken If the workplace employer is essentially setting the wages, but you have to negotiate with the temp agency, and they say, ``That is all we can pay, so talk to somebody else,'' we need the somebody else at the table to be bargaining. prgtoken Likewise, a temp agency may be restrained on what it can pay because of the contract with the owner of the workplace. prgtoken Additionally, by evading bargaining obligations, the prime contractor who is actually setting the wages can shift liability for an unfair labor practice onto the subcontractor or the temp agency. prgtoken The NLRB rule fixes this problem by ensuring workers can negotiate with all entities controlling their working conditions. This protects small businesses from being held liable for labor violations that are the result of other employers' actions. prgtoken By repealing the NLRB's rule, H.J. Res. 98 would undermine workers' ability to exercise their rights and reinstate the deficient -era rule that narrowed the joint employer standard. Under the -era standard, employers who control the working conditions could easily evade their obligations to collectively bargain with employees. prgtoken We should not go backward. The - administration's joint prgtoken employer rule empowers workers and protects small businesses. prgtoken My colleagues have just claimed that there is a problem with franchisees and the franchising model. These claims are unfounded, as there is no credible evidence showing that the rule would adversely affect the franchise model. prgtoken In fact, if a problem arises, a strong joint employer standard will protect franchisees by ensuring the franchisors don't control the franchisees' labor relations and then leave the franchisees on the hook for the liabilities. prgtoken I want
CELEBRATING MITRE'S 65TH ANNIVERSARY
Seth Moulton (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2024-1-12

I rise in celebration of MITRE's 65th anniversary of service to the Nation. prgtoken MITRE, a non-profit founded in 1958 in Bedford, Massachusetts, contributions have been both profound and wide-ranging, impacting not only national security but also advancing critical technology sectors and public welfare on a global scale. prgtoken For over six decades, MITRE has been at the forefront of technological and strategic development, adapting to and preempting global challenges from the Cold War era to the present day. Its pioneering work in the development of the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) and its collaboration on the Apollo Mission underscore its pivotal role in shaping defense and space exploration strategies. prgtoken MITRE's innovative endeavors in the fields of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence have set the benchmark for the industry. The Orange Book, penned by MITRE's Grace Hammonds Nibaldi, laid the foundation for modern cybersecurity, marking the organization as a thought leader for more than half a century. Similarly, MITRE's role in developing America's Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) exemplifies its commitment to creating the safest, most efficient airspace in the world. prgtoken Today, MITRE continues to spearhead transformative projects. The MITRE ATT&CK framework has become a cornerstone in cybersecurity, guiding threat models and critical infrastructure protection. Through initiatives like ``Black Pearl,'' MITRE confronts issues such as human trafficking and narcotics, displaying its adaptability and influence across various domains. Moreover, MITRE's cutting-edge work in space traffic management, quantum computing, and BlueTech, along with its contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrates its capacity to lead and innovate in response to emergent global issues. prgtoken Recognizing MITRE's multifaceted impact, from the development of the Standard Health Record for Oncology to modernizing judicial records, reflects its profound influence beyond the scope of traditional research and development organizations. Fast Company's description of MITRE as ``the most important company you've never heard of'' encapsulates the silent, yet significant footprint MITRE has left on modern society. prgtoken Finally, it is essential to acknowledge that MITRE's success is fundamentally a human story--driven by a team of dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, often without public acclaim, motivated by a shared commitment to the public good. As we honor MITRE on its 65th anniversary, we celebrate not just the organization's remarkable achievements but also the people who have made it all possible. Their uncredited service and relentless pursuit of innovation for the nation's benefit indeed set MITRE apart as a unique and invaluable institution. prgtoken Please join me in honoring MITRE and its talented staff on MITRE's 65th anniversary.
RECOGNIZING THIRTY YEARS OF BANNERMAN CASTLE LAND TRUST
Patrick Ryan (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-1-12

I rise to recognize the Bannerman Castle Trust for thirty years of excellent work in historical preservation. prgtoken Since 1994, the Bannerman Castle Trust has overseen the preservation of the historic buildings on Pollepel Island, also known as Bannerman Island. Pollepel Island is located just off the eastern shore of the Hudson River between Beacon and Cold Spring, New York. prgtoken The island is home to Bannerman Castle and its surrounding structures, built by Scottish-American businessman Frank Bannerman prgtoken in 1901. Since then, Bannerman Castle has been a beacon of architectural beauty in the Hudson Valley. prgtoken The Bannerman Castle Trust is an official ``Friends'' organization of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Taconic Region. prgtoken Over the past 30 years, the trust has been dedicated to maintaining and preserving educating community members and tourists about the history of the land. prgtoken Throughout this time, Neil Caplan, founder and Executive Director of the Bannerman Castle Trust, has dedicated his work to making this historic site safe and accessible to the public. By hosting kayak tours, river cruises, dinners, and even movie nights, Caplan and his team has continued to preserve this site and make it a special place within our community. prgtoken I want to personally thank Mr. Caplan and his Board of Directors for all their great work and years of service. I wish all the best in the next 30 years as Bannerman's Castle is preserved and remains an important historical feature within our district.
STOP SETTLEMENT SLUSH FUNDS ACT OF 2023
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2024-1-12

I rise in opposition to H.R. 788. prgtoken H.R. 788 would prevent the Department of Justice from negotiating settlements in court cases to include payments to third parties, such as nonprofits, community organizations, trusts, or foundations. This redirection of funds is especially important in cases when harm is difficult to monetize, such as assessing damage to the environment or unknown health outcomes to individuals resulting from chemical exposures. In these cases, third parties are able to utilize the small portion of settlements they receive to help rectify the harm done by the plaintiff. For example, after the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, $20 million was redirected to groups aiming to restore the health of the Gulf--one way to further remedy the environmental harm caused by BP. It is critical the federal government retains its ability invest in harm remediation while holding bad actors accountable. prgtoken Congress should not be undermining the Department of Justice's ability to hold corporations accountable when they do harm to the public. The federal government must retain all its tools in its effort to protect the public interest and enforce our nation's laws. Instead of undermining the ability to settle cases with just outcomes for those impacted, we should be focused on passing legislation that serves the needs of the American people.
TRIBUTE TO FORMER UNITED STATES SENATOR HERBERT (HERB) KOHL
Gwen Moore (Democrat, WI) \u2014 2024-1-12

it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to extend my deepest condolences to the family and community grieving the loss of the esteemed former United States Senator Herbert Hiken Kohl. Senator Herb Kohl, a notable figure in the political, sporting, and education spheres, passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 88. prgtoken Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the union of his Polish Jewish immigrant father, Max Kohl, and his Russian Jewish mother, Mary Kohl. Senator Kohl's humble beginnings trace back to Washington High School. He later earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1956, where he also became a Pi Lambda Phi fraternity member. Continuing his academic pursuits, he obtained a Master of Business Administration degree from Harvard Business School in 1958, concurrently serving in the United States Army Reserve from 1958 to 1964. prgtoken Senator Kohl entered the political scene around the 1970s, initially as a donor and fundraiser for then Governor Patrick Lucey. Following Governor Lucey's 1974 inauguration, Senator Kohl assumed a prominent role as the chairman of the Wisconsin ic Party (WisDems). Under his leadership, WisDems achieved historic victories in the 1976 election, securing a supermajority in both chambers of the legislature. He remained chairman of WisDems until he resigned at the June 1977 state party convention. prgtoken A stalwart public servant, Senator Kohl dedicated four consecutive terms to representing Wisconsin as a U.S. Senator from 1989 to 2013. Notably, he holds the distinction of having an undefeated record in politics, winning all 72 counties in Wisconsin during the 2006 election. His bipartisan approach and commitment to addressing crucial issues earned him respect across party lines. prgtoken In addition to his political contributions, Senator Kohl left a permanent mark on the world of sports as the owner of the Milwaukee Bucks in the National Basketball Association. Acquiring the team in 1985, he guided them through challenges and triumphs, demonstrating his commitment to both the local community and the sport of basketball. Under Kohl's stewardship, the Bucks became a source of pride for Milwaukeeans, and his passion for keeping the Bucks in the city of Milwaukee was evident when he pledged $100 million of his own money to support the construction of what many now know as the Fiserv Forum. prgtoken Beyond his political and sports achievements, Senator Kohl's passion extended to prgtoken uplifting Wisconsinites. A staunch supporter of public education, he funded efforts to bolster public schools, students, and educators in the state. Establishing the Herb Kohl Philanthropies, he recognized students, teachers, and schools with grants to support educational achievement. Since its founding, the Herb Kohl Foundation has distributed over $20.9 million in grants and scholarships, impacting the lives of over 8,000 individuals
SUPPORTING STRIKES ON HOUTHI REBELS INSIDE YEMEN
Donald G. Davis (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2024-1-12

I rise in strong support of the strikes on the Houthi rebels inside Yemen. prgtoken Last night, the U.S. and coalition partners conducted strikes against numerous targets in Yemen used by Houthi rebels to endanger U.S. and international shipping vessels. prgtoken For months, Iranian-backed fighters have attempted to disrupt global commerce and wreak havoc in the Red Sea. These unprovoked attacks not only risk the lives of our servicemembers and innocent civilians; they threaten to disrupt the international economy. prgtoken When the circumstances demand it, we must rise to the occasion and act. prgtoken As a member of the House Committee on Armed Services, I will always support swift action to defend our national security interests.
REGARDING THE SALE OF U.S. STEEL
Christopher R. Deluzio (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2024-1-12

I represent many of the people who made the steel that built this country and who still make the steel this country relies on. prgtoken We are seeing today, unfortunately, corporate executives, egged on by Wall Street, selling off U.S. Steel to a foreign company. prgtoken U.S. Steel has benefited from strong action in this country: tariffs from President and President , the Inflation Reduction Act, defense spending, the infrastructure bill, and more, while chasing the biggest, fattest bid and blowing off the steelworkers whose work made them rich. prgtoken Profits matter, don't get me wrong, but other things matter, too: our workers, our jobs, our communities, and this country. prgtoken We need an economy that reflects that, that says that hard work matters, not just greed. Let's keep fighting for all that.
PATHWAY TO RESIDENCY FOR CUBAN NATIONALS
Morgan McGarvey (Democrat, KY) \u2014 2024-1-12

my hometown of Louisville is the fastest- growing Cuban community in the entire U.S. prgtoken , 14,000 Cubans have arrived in our city in just the last 2 years, enriching our social fabric by building families, contributing to our economy, and adding pasteles and cafecito to our menus in the process. prgtoken The Cuban Adjustment Act creates a clear pathway to residency for Cuban nationals who immigrate to the United States, but court rulings threaten the ability of Cubans recently issued an I-220A form to remain in the U.S. prgtoken This is wrong. It robs Cubans of the rights guaranteed them by the Cuban Adjustment Act. No one should have to live in this legal limbo, including the thousands of individuals who live in my district. prgtoken Today, I am sending a letter to DHS Secretary Mayorkas, urging him to correct this situation by granting parole in place status to any Cuban issued an I-220A. I know he is committed to ensuring no one is wrongly or arbitrarily removed from our country, and I will continue to work with him and my colleagues here until this is fixed.
PRICE CAPS FOR EPIPENS
Maxwell Frost (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2024-1-12

yesterday, I introduced the EPIPEN Act to cap the cost of any two-pack epinephrine auto-injector to $60 for folks with private health insurance. prgtoken A few years ago, I had a life-threatening allergic reaction and had to use an expired EpiPen that I hadn't replaced due to the sky-high cost. If it wasn't for the EMTs, I would have died that night. They can cost more than $650, even after insurance. prgtoken I am not alone. I heard from an American who can't afford to purchase enough EpiPens so that way her kid can have one in all the places they need it: their backpack, the school nurse, at daycare, at home, and in the car. prgtoken I heard from an American who keeps four expired EpiPens in the hopes that they will have enough active medication to save his life one day. prgtoken I heard from an American who hasn't filled a prescription in the past decade despite having severe allergies. She works in the medical field. prgtoken Folks, it is plain and simple: It doesn't have to be this way. We need Congress to step in, look out for working families, and cap these prices for lifesaving medications.
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL UNDER THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD RELATING TO "STANDARD FOR DETERMINING JOINT EMPLOYER STATUS"
Greg Casar (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2024-1-12

. Madam , I rise today in opposition to this proposal because across our country and across my home State of Texas, working families are struggling to make ends meet while big corporations boast record-breaking profits. prgtoken We should all be celebrating this -era NLRB rule to make sure that those same big companies have to bargain for better wages and better benefits with their workers and that those big companies can't throw contractors in the way in order to evade that baseline responsibility. prgtoken Nonetheless, unsurprisingly, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are running to the rescue of those same big corporations and their record-breaking profits. The majority wants to help those corporations be able to deny workers the benefits, the higher wages, the overtime, and the healthcare they deserve. prgtoken The most ironic thing that I have heard today from the s who are for this resolution is they keep saying they want to defend small businesses. However, in fact, the proposal today will allow big corporations to throw a small contractor in between themselves and their employees so that they can keep on underpaying their staff and provide fewer benefits than those workers deserve. prgtoken I will give you an example from my district, Madam . In my district, my constituents run YouTube Music which is used by millions of people across the world. YouTube Music, of course, is owned by YouTube and by Google. However, they don't get a check from Google. They get a check from a contractor that otherwise wouldn't exist except for the fact that they are there to essentially pass the check along to workers and shield Google and YouTube from their responsibility to their workers. prgtoken That is why these folks who are helping make Google $60 billion in profits just last year make as little as $19 an hour. This proposal is to shield enormous corporations like Google from their responsibility to make sure that the workers who create their profits actually get to share in American prosperity. prgtoken Workers have the right to bargain for fair wages and working conditions with every company that controls their terms and conditions of employment, and that is why we should defend this -era NLRB rule to protect workers' rights to bargain. prgtoken Workers across the United States are saying ``yes'' to higher wages, they are saying ``yes'' to better healthcare, and they are saying ``yes'' to collective bargaining. It is time for Congress to catch up.