mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CUSTOM HEALTH OPTION AND INDIVIDUAL CARE EXPENSE ARRANGEMENT ACT
A. Drew Ferguson IV (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-6-22

. Madam Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 3799, the CHOICE Arrangement Act. prgtoken According to research by NFIB, small businesses have ranked the cost of health insurance as their number one problem for 32 straight years. s are spearheading innovative health care solutions to bring down health care costs for small businesses. prgtoken The CHOICE Arrangement Act does a great job giving employers more choices and flexibility in how they help provide health coverage for their employees, without Washington being involved. prgtoken In 2019, the Administration finalized rules that allow employers to establish ``Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements'' for their employees. These ICHRAs are employer-funded arrangements that employees can use to purchase their own health insurance plan in the individual market and pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses. prgtoken The CHOICE Arrangement Act appropriately codifies these regulations, ensuring that this option will remain available. prgtoken While employers of all sizes may find this approach of interest, it is particularly important as a means for small employers to offer health coverage for employees and their families without having to manage a complex health insurance plan and with more predictable costs. prgtoken The different health insurance choices available, such as CHOICE Arrangements, Qualified Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangements, or the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, are unknown to 70 percent of small businesses. This measure would ensure that those businesses be notified about these options' availability and their tax advantages so that they can decide how best to serve their employees' health care preferences. prgtoken These arrangements also help facilitate coverage portability, because employees can continue their individual health Insurance plan if they change jobs. prgtoken The current regulations also allow the flexibility for employers to offer to employees both an ICHRA and excepted benefit coverage, such as dental or vision coverage. I am pleased this bill will preserve the same option to have both CHOICE Arrangements and these other benefits. prgtoken The CHOICE Arrangement Act includes other provisions similarly designed to assist small employers and their employees with respect to health coverage options. I urge support for this important measure to provide options for American workers and families.
HONORING BLAIR NELSON
Brad Finstad (Republican, MN) \u2014 2023-6-22

I rise today to honor the life of Blair Nelson, a friend and dedicated public servant who unexpectedly passed away on May 30. prgtoken Those of us who knew Blair knew him for his devotion to his family and his selfless commitment to serving others. prgtoken In 2010, Blair was elected to the Waseca County Board of Commissioners, where he found his true calling in public service. During his nearly 13 years as county commissioner, Blair paved the way for many projects, but he was especially proud to bring the Waseca County Veterans Memorial to completion. prgtoken Blair served on the executive board of directors for the Association of Minnesota Counties. Just 3 months ago, I was fortunate enough to give Blair and his colleagues a tour of our U.S. Capitol, something I will always remember when I think of him. prgtoken Blair's big personality, sense of humor, and positive spirit made him a friend to many across southern Minnesota. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, coach, mentor, and friend. He will truly be missed.
RELATING TO THE CONSIDERATION OF H. RES. 503, IMPEACHING JOSEPH R.
Ralph Norman (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-6-22

I find it humorous, for those watching on TV and for those in the balcony, that they keep talking about President . They won't talk about the current President, . prgtoken I am going to start off with a compliment. He has been able to accomplish being the worst President and has replaced Jimmy Carter as the worst President this country has ever had of all time, and it is because of his policies. prgtoken I support this going to the Committee on Homeland Security because, as has been said, the border is wide open. The gates are open. prgtoken How many more deaths do we have to have? How many more of our young people have to die? , there were 100,000 last year of record. As a Border Patrol agent said, there are no drug treatments in a morgue. prgtoken How long are we going to have an administration that is going to take the handcuffs and put them on the police? prgtoken How long are we going to have an administration that is going to deplete our oil supplies and buy it from countries that don't like us? prgtoken How long are we going to have an administration that is going to support abortion regardless of the term? How long? prgtoken Ask the average businessowner in this country if he is having a good year or a bad year. Are prices coming up or going down? We have the worst inflation that we have had in a long time, and it simply cannot go on. prgtoken The election cannot come quick enough. This man has sold out. This man has to be replaced. prgtoken Homeland Security is the right way for this resolution to go because we will get the facts. I fully support it. I thank Mrs. Boebert for taking the lead on this.
HONORING THE LIFE OF MICHAEL R. GLASS
H. Morgan Griffith (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-6-22

I rise to honor the life of Michael R. Glass of Salem, Virginia, who passed away on June 4, 2023. Glass was described by his loved ones as an ``outstanding father, husband, brother, friend, mentor, and Firefighter.'' Mike dedicated his life to serving his community, following in his father's footsteps, and becoming a volunteer firefighter at Fort Lewis Fire Department in 1978. Mike then became a career firefighter with Salem Fire Department in 1987, where he obtained his EMT certification and served as part of the Regional HazMat team. prgtoken Committed to expanding access to fire service training programs, Mike was influential in starting Roanoke County's Volunteer Firefighter Academy, where he continued as the Lead Instructor. He also helped start a second fire academy in conjunction with the Elliston Fire Department in Montgomery County. Mike retired from the Salem Fire Department in 2008 after 20 years of service and from the Fort Lewis Fire Department in 2019 after 41 years of service. While at Fort Lewis, he served as treasurer and lieutenant and won service Firefighter of the Year awards. prgtoken Over the years, I had the privilege of attending many Fort Lewis Chicken Barbeque dinners, which Mike organized twice a year and were the department's biggest fundraiser, with proceeds going toward the department's budget and providing training and safety equipment for the station. When not fighting fires, Mike loved making trips to the Smoky Mountains with his family and friends. He also had a great love for dogs and had a special place in his heart for children, making sure to hand out a few dollar bills to any youngsters he came across. prgtoken Mike joins his wife Bonnie, his parents on and Barbara, and best friend Kevin Sheppard in heaven. Mike is survived by his son, Stephen Palmer (Stephanie); grand-dog, Ace; his baby sister, Becky Ayers (Justin); special nephews, Jase, and Ryan Ayers; brothers, James and Ronnie Glass; Sister, Anne Paitsel (David); special nieces, Sylvia Paitsel (Cedrick); great niece, Leia; and special aunt, Sandra Dawley. I wish them condolences on the loss of their loved one. Mike served as a mentor to countless Volunteer Firefighters, and his contributions to Salem and the fire departments around Southwest Virginia will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed.
UNITED STATES-TAIWAN INITIATIVE ON 21ST-CENTURY TRADE FIRST AGREEMENT IMPLEMENTATION ACT
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-6-23

I rise today in support of H.R. 4004, the United States-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade First Agreement Implementation Act. prgtoken This bill expresses the approval of Congress for the June 1, 2023, agreement regarding trade between the United States and Taiwan. prgtoken The bill also imposes requirements on the negotiations of certain further trade agreements between the United States and Taiwan. prgtoken The bill also imposes requirements on the negotiation of further agreements under the United States-Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade, such as requiring the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to: (1) share any U.S. negotiating texts with Congress prior to sharing the text with Taiwan or any parties outside of the executive branch. (2) share any negotiating texts from Taiwan within three days of receipt, and (3) provide daily briefings to certain Members of Congress during negotiating rounds. prgtoken A further agreement shall not take effect unless (1) the President, at least 60 days before entering into the further agreement, makes the text publicly available on a USTR website; and (2) a bill is enacted into law expressly approving the further agreement. prgtoken The United States and Taiwan signed a first agreement under the U.S.- Taiwan Initiative on 21st-Century Trade, announced in June 2022. prgtoken The initial 2022 agreement aimed to streamline customs procedures, help smaller businesses navigate the regulatory procedures in both markets, and prevent corruption. prgtoken This agreement is not a formal free-trade agreement that regulates tariffs, but rather aims to strengthen U.S.-Taiwan trade ties amid heightened tensions. prgtoken Taiwan and the United States have maintained commercial ties since 1979. prgtoken Although the United States does not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan, we maintain a strong unofficial relationship that must continue, and H.R. 4004 will allow the United States to do such that.
HONORING THE SERVICE OF NASSER ABOUKHALIL
Mark DeSaulnier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-23

I rise today to recognize the service of Nasser AbouKhalil. prgtoken Throughout his life, Nasser has shown his commitment to supporting patients and providing a space for advocacy and healing in the community. Nasser was born in Tyr, Lebanon and graduated from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. He opened the Alamo Pharmacy in 1987. In 1997, he opened the Oak Grove Pharmacy in Concord, California where it remains a staple in our community. prgtoken Through his work, Nasser practices compassionate care and comprehensive support. He believes in not only ensuring that patients have the appropriate medications, but also offering individualized health care advice and cost-effective alternatives. Nasser also takes pride in mentoring aspiring health care professionals in the pharmacy. providing them real-world experience to prepare them as they enter the medical field and work to serve their communities. prgtoken In addition to his professional work, Nasser is also an advocate for the Lebanese community in the Bay Area where he volunteers with the Lebanese American Association. prgtoken Please join me in recognizing Nasser AbouKhalil for his leadership and invaluable contributions to our community.
COMMEMORATING PRIDE MONTH
Hillary J. Scholten (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-6-23

I rise today to commemorate Pride Month for the good people of west Michigan. prgtoken Even as we celebrate this month as a time of joy, allowing individuals to be their authentic selves, it has been marked by communications from back home about the challenges and direct harm individuals face just for being a member of the LGBTQ community. Far, far too often, this harm is inflicted directly and intentionally in the name of God. prgtoken West Michigan has not had a countervoice in Congress, but they do now. I rise today as a lawmaker to express my commitment to championing freedom and justice for all in this country. I also rise today as a woman of deep and unwavering faith to reaffirm the equality that we all experience as precious human beings created with love, with joy, in the image and likeness of God. No scheme of man can change that. prgtoken To all of you in west Michigan who have felt unseen, unheard, or, even worse, bullied, this statement in the Congressional Record is for you. My votes are for you. My presence here on the House floor is for you. prgtoken We are bending the arc toward justice, toward inclusion, toward equality. Happy Pride.
FIGHTING FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM
Salud O. Carbajal (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-23

one year ago tomorrow, the Supreme Court overturned a half century of precedent by ending the nationwide guarantee that women be allowed to make choices over their bodies. prgtoken Since then, we have seen the devastating result: Numerous States enacting bans that deny a woman's ability to make decisions over her body, oftentimes without any exception. prgtoken In the face of this new wave of attacks on reproductive freedom, I have fought with many of my colleagues to preserve access to abortions and to restore a nationwide right to abortion access. prgtoken House produced and passed legislation to ensure women can travel safely and freely to States in which abortion is still legal, have access to contraception, and cover abortions regardless of income or health status. prgtoken We will not stop there. prgtoken We will continue to push for legislation that will once again allow women everywhere in America to be in charge of their own health decisions.
TIME FOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO CATCH UP
Earl Blumenauer (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2023-6-23

50 years ago this week, Oregon became the first State to decriminalize cannabis. I was honored to be a part of that process. prgtoken It is time for the Federal Government to catch up. prgtoken We owe it to the generations of Black Americans targeted by the failed war on drugs. prgtoken We owe it to our veterans with their wounds, seen and unseen. prgtoken We owe it to thousands of workers and their employers who fail drug tests every day because they used State-legal cannabis weeks before. prgtoken We owe it to the large and growing cannabis industry, whose employees are targets for violent robbery because we deny them bank accounts. prgtoken We owe it to the American public who are not waiting for the Federal Government. prgtoken We need that framework to tax and regulate cannabis. prgtoken On the anniversary of Oregon's historic step to decriminalize cannabis, it is past time for the Federal Government to be a real partner and not a roadblock on the path forward.
CONGRATULATING BEN F. KOLB MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR EARNING HISTORIC STATE AND NATIONAL RECOGNITION IN THE SCHOOLS TO WATCH PROGRAM
Pete Aguilar (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-23

I rise today to recognize Ben F. Kolb Middle School students, teachers and administrators by congratulating them on being nationally recognized in the Schools to Watch Program, Kolb Middle School, located in the City of Rialto, was one of 36 new California schools selected in the Schools to Watch program in 2023. prgtoken The Schools to Watch program recognizes schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence, foster positive school culture and support holistic student development. Schools chosen for this prestigious award are high-performing, model schools that demonstrate responsiveness to the needs of young students, social equity and exceptional academic performance. prgtoken Today, I offer my hearty congratulations to former Principal Armando Urteaga and his dedicated staff for their commitment to their students for not only developing a well-rounded academic curriculum, but also providing Social-Emotional Learning support. By ensuring their students develop healthy identities, learn how to manage their emotions and make responsible and caring decisions, Kolb Middle School has allowed Rialto students to thrive. prgtoken I'm incredibly proud of the hard work of our Kolb Cougars and celebrate the accomplishments of all the California schools recognized as Schools to Watch this year.
RECOGNIZING LILYANA BALDERAS
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-23

today I rise to recognize one of my constituents, Lilyana Balderas, who is an Anaheim High School freshman and a 15-year-old athlete who is rapidly rising through the Nation's ranks as one of the best wrestlers in the country. prgtoken Lilyana just finished her freshman year at Anaheim High School with 33 wins, crowned the 121-pound CIF Champion and CIF State runner-up champ. She is ranked 10th nationally as the best wrestler in the United States. prgtoken She is a top-notch student with a 3.9 GPA. prgtoken What is her goal? prgtoken Lilyana simply wants to win an Olympic Gold Medal for the United States. prgtoken I know Lilyana has got this. prgtoken Go Colonists. prgtoken We will be watching her career.
CELEBRATING THE BIENNIAL MEETING OF THE 4TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT CONNECTIONAL LAY ORGANIZATION OF THE AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Danny K. Davis (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-6-23

the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church is one of the oldest and most influential African-American denominations in the United States. The roots of the AME Church can be traced back to the late 18th century during a time of intense racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. The institution of slavery was deeply entrenched, and African Americans faced severe restrictions in practicing their faith within predominantly white churches. prgtoken In 1787, Richard Allen, a former slave and preacher, along with other black Methodist worshippers, formed the Free African Society in Philadelphia. The society aimed to provide spiritual support, education, and assistance to African Americans in the city. prgtoken The AME Church convenes regular conferences and conventions at various levels within its organizational structure, of which the Biennial is one. The Biennial Meeting of the Connectional Lay Organization is done every two years. The Lay Organization of the AME Church is commissioned to teach, train, and empower its members for lay ministry, global leadership, and service following the tenets of Jesus Christ. prgtoken Located in the 7th Congressional District of Illinois, the 4th Episcopal District Connectional Lay Organization of the AME Church will host two conventions in Chicago from June 25-30, 2023: the 81st Annual Connectional Lay Organization Meeting, and the 38th Connectional Lay Biennial Convention. Their theme is: ``Living A Global Witness Ministry that Transforms, Transcends and Liberates''. prgtoken I salute the work of the Connectional Lay Organization under the leadership of: Bishop Stafford J.N. Wicker, Commission Chair and newly- elected Council of Bishops President; Bishop John Franklin White, Host Bishop; Mrs. Penny H. White, Episcopal Supervisor; Matikane Abe Makiti, President of the Connectional Lay Organization of the AME Church; Mrs. Patricia Wright, Connectional Director of Lay Activities; Ms. Jameshia Williams, Connectional Young Adult Representative; Mr. Jerry Turner, Jr 4th District Episcopal President; Mr. Michael A. Cousin, Jr 4th District Episcopal Director of Lay Activities; and Mr. Terrence Sanford, 4th District Episcopal Young Adult Representative. prgtoken I welcome the participants of the Biennial Meeting of the 4th Episcopal District Connectional Lay Organization of the African Methodist Episcopal Church to the 7th Congressional District of Illinois, and I wish them much success.
CHILDREN IN AGRICULTURE MUST BE PROTECTED
Raul Ruiz (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-6-23

I rise today to highlight my bill, the Children's Act for Responsible Employment and Farm Safety, or the CARE Act. This bill will protect children in the agricultural industry by creating the same child labor protections that children have in all other industries. prgtoken Farm labor is the most dangerous occupation in our Nation, and there are no child labor protections. As a result, three kids get injured a day, and every 3 days, a child dies from injuries sustained in the fields. prgtoken Between 2001 and 2015, nearly half of all fatal injuries to young workers occurred in agriculture. prgtoken As an emergency physician, the son of farmworkers, and someone who grew up in an impoverished farmworker community with friends who left school to help financially support their families, I want to protect farmworker children across the country. prgtoken My bill aims to stop the alarming rate of farm labor injuries and deaths by raising the age of employment and limiting the number of working hours during the schoolday for children--the same as all other industries. prgtoken We must protect children. As a father, doctor, and son of farmworkers, I implore my colleagues to join this effort and cosponsor the CARE Act.
RECOGNIZING MIKE FLANNERY FOR HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO JOURNALISM
Raja Krishnamoorthi (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-6-23

I wish to recognize Mike Flannery's distinguished career as a political reporter in Illinois and to congratulate him on his well-earned upcoming retirement from Fox 32- Chicago. For decades, Illinois residents have relied on Mr. Flannery's sharp analysis to make sense of top political stories. Through his weekly television program, ``Flannery Fired Up,'' Illinois residents have come to trust Mr. Flannery as a voice of insight, fairness, and integrity. prgtoken Mr. Flannery grew up in Washington D.C. in a family that understood the importance of public service and its demands. His father, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, imparted on Mr. Flannery a sense of patriotism and a desire to find a career that benefitted others. Despite financial hardships, Mr. Flannery won a scholarship to attend Georgetown University, where he discovered a passion for journalism and became editor of the prgtoken university's newspaper. Through his coursework, he became fascinated by the unique political culture of Chicago and Mayor Richard J. Daley's administration. prgtoken After graduation, Mr, Flannery moved to Chicago and began his career in journalism covering politics and labor for the Chicago Sun Times, He built a reputation for integrity at a time when political corruption was a powerful force in Chicago politics. When Mr. Flannery transitioned to TV and joined WBBM-Channel 2 as Political Editor in 1980, he brought his unique sensibility into viewer's living rooms. prgtoken Over the course of Mr. Flannery's 50-year career, he has covered the administrations of ten Chicago mayors and eight Illinois governors with extraordinary insight and accuracy. Mr. Flannery's TV program has become a central stage for political discussion in Chicago, drawing countless elected officials and experts. His sharp questioning held powerful officials to account and provided context for the week's news for his loyal viewers, Behind the scenes, Mr. Flannery has been just as tireless in his pursuit of the facts, engaging regularly with community leaders and experts, even chasing politicians--sometimes literally--as he did when he jogged after former Illinois Governor Rob Blagojevich in 2010. Both on and off the air, Mr. Flannery has a record of relentlessly pursuing the truth on behalf of greater Chicago. prgtoken , I extend immense gratitude to Mike Flannery for his invaluable contributions to political reporting, and I wish him well in his retirement. His dedication to the public service of informing Illinosans on the issues facing our state is commendable and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence in journalism.