Transcripts For CSPAN U.S. House Of Representatives U.S. House Of Representatives 20180213

Gentleman from tennessee, dr. Roe and the gentleman from california, mr. Takano, each will control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from tennessee. Mr. Roe i ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks. The speaker pro tempore so granted. Mr. Roe i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the chairman is recognized. Mr. Roe i rise in support h. R. 4533 as amended, a bill to designate the collective Health Care Facilities of the department of Veterans Affairs v. A. In lexington, kentucky as the lexington, v. A. Health care system, to designate the Lexington Medical Center lease salsleythe franklin are campus. This bill is sponsored by my good friend congressman andy barr from kentucky and im grateful for introducing this legislation. One Health Care Facility of the department of veteran affairs located at 2250 in leasetown road would be the would be named after private first class salsly. He was a marine in 1944. Following basic training he was assigned to the fifth Marine Division and slated for the iwa jima. Nvasion at they landed on february 19, 1945 on the south side of the island. On the fourth day of the invasion, he was one of the six men in the famous photograph of the United States marines raising the flag. Tragically, he was killed in action by a japanese sniper 27 days later. He was awarded with the is i very star, Pacific Campaign medal with a bronze star and the world war ii victory medal. The other Health Care Facility of the department of Veterans Affairs located at 1101 Veterans Drive in lexington, ntucky, would be named the troy bowling campus. Private troy bowling was born in hamilton, ohio, and another proud marine who served during world war ii. Private bowlings unit was among the first to land at the beaches ofy row jeema. His of iwo jima. Two project aisles struck mr. Bowling leaving his critically wounded on the battlefield. Private bowling said he looked to the heavens and committed to serving mankind the rest of his life if he survived. Miraculously a combat photographer and another rried him to the landing craft. Private bowling followed through on his battlefield promise to god. Devoting over 78,000 hours of volunteer service at the lexington v. A. Medical center and rising through the ranks of the disabled American Veterans, eventually holding nearly every position possibly including state commander. At the 2005 national convention, private bowling received the george h. Seal award for outstanding volunteer and the Lifetime Service Achievement Award. He was nominated and selected to be put into the kentucky lifetime hall of fame for his service to veterans. He passed away on june 17, 2017. Mr. Speaker, it is only fitting and appropriate that a week before his 73rd anniversary of the invasion of iwo jima we honor both of these heroes by honoring the two v. A. Campuses in lexington, kentucky, after them. This legislation satisfies all of the committees naming criteria and cosponsored by the entire kentucky delegation and supported by many kentucky veteran services organizations. I am proud to support it as well and urge my colleagues to join me. Thank you, mr. Speaker, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore and the chair recognizes mr. Takano. Mr. Takano thank you, mr. Speaker. I yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Takano mr. Speaker, i rise today to support h. R. 4533 which designates the Health Care System of the department of Veterans Affairs in lexington, kentucky, as the lexington v. A. Health care system. However, it is two other designations in this bill that i wish to highlight because they honor the memories of two extraordinary greatest generation heroes from kentucky, troy bowling, and franklin r. Sousley. H. R. 4533 names two campuses in the lexington, virginia, Health Care System after these brave marines. 75 years ago this month the United States marines landed on the Pacific Island of iwo jima and engaged the Japanese Forces in some of the most intense and costly fighting of world war ii. Among them were troy bowling and franklin r. Sousley, just teenagers at the time. Bowlings unit was among the first to arrive on iwo jima. On the second day he was critically wounded by mortgage arse and eventually evacuated to the mortars and and saw evacuated the flag being launched at Mount Suribachi. Mr. Bowling made a deal with god. If he survived he would spend his life in the service of others. He kept that promise and over 72 years through more than 78,000 hours of volunteer service at the lexington v. A. Medical center, thats how he kept his promise over the next 72 years by volunteering that 78,000 hours at the lexington v. A. Medical center. In his work were the disabled veterans of disabled American Veterans hes held nearly every position pog include state commander position, including state commanders, among others. He is the resit yent of the lifetime a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award by the department of Veterans Affairs. Private sousley was also involved in intense concentrated fighting. Eventually as we all know, American Forces prevailed. Private sousley was among the six marines proudly hoisting that flag. Tragically, less than a month later, he would be killed in action. Highly decorated for bravery, private sousley is now buried in the cemetery in flemming county, kentucky. Mr. Speaker, these two men are the personification of duty, patriotism, and selfsacrifice. It is entirely appropriate that the two campuses of the lexington v. A. Health care system be named in their honor. Thank you, mr. Speaker, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes dr. Roe. Mr. Roe thank you, mr. Speaker. At this time id like to yield four minutes to my good friend and mr. Bowlings congressman from lexington, andy barr. The speaker pro tempore and the chair recognizes the gentleman from kentucky. Mr. Barr well, thank you, chairman roe. Thank you for your tireless leadership. As a veteran yourself, as a physician and your Exceptional Leadership on Veterans Issues as chairman of the committee. Mr. Speaker, i rise today in support of h. R. 4533, to designate the Health Care System of the department of Veterans Affairs in lexington, kentucky, my hometown, as the lexington v. A. Health care system, and to individually designate medical facilities located at 1101 Veterans Drive in lexington, kentucky, as the troy bowling campus, a campus where my own grandfather, world war ii veteran, spent his final days. And to designate the department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Center located at 2250 leestown road as the franklin r. Sousley campus. Born in hilltop, kentucky, Marine Private first class sousley landed on iwo jima on friday, february 19, 1945, and he actively fought in the battle for the island. During these intense fighting moments, members of the United States armed forces secured Mount Suribachi and hoisted a United States flag on top of the summit. On february 23, 1945, private first class sousley, alongside five other brave u. S. Service members, raised a larger u. S. Flag so it could be seen over the island. The iconic photograph taken of these six marines, while they raised the u. S. Flag attached to a heavy japanese pipe, soon became the immortalized symbol of american bravery, perseverance and sacrifice endured by members of the United States armed forces during the intense battles of world war ii. Tragically private first class sousley was killed in combat by katans se sniper around was t in march, 1945 and ised to rest in flemming cemetery. The v. A. Always goes out to pay their respects to the sousley family right at that gravesite. Private troy bowling bravely unit at iwo jima but his came under intense fire, completely overwhelming his unit. Two project aisles struck private bowling in the chest and leg leaving him critically wounded on the battlefield. At that moment bowling said, quote, as i lay bleeding on the black sands of iwo jima i looked to the heavens, promising if i survived i would serve mankind for the rest of my life, unquote. Troys unit received the president ial Unit Citation and he received the purple heart. In keeping faith with his commitment to god made during that battle, private bowling, who i had the honor of meeting on several occasions, devoted the next 66 years of his life by giving over 78,000 hours of volunteer service to others at the lexington v. A. Medical center and rose to the ranks within the disabled Veterans Organization holding every position including state commander. He received a Lifetime Service Achievement Award from the department of Veterans Affairs and nominated and selected to be inducted in the kentucky Veterans Hall of fame for his lifetime of service to veterans. , ese two deserving veterans ranklin sousley and troy bowling, never abandoned the rine motto of searcher idelis, always semper idelis, always faithful. We honor these two Service Members for their service and sacrifice to our country and to our veterans. Id like to thank the members of the sixth Congressional District Veterans Coalition for bringing this idea for this legislation to my attention. I would also like to thank my colleagues in the kentucky congressional delegation, leader mitch mcconnell, senator rand paul, congressman hahl rodgesers, hal rogers, kongman guthrie, congressman massie, and congressman comer for their support as well. Mr. Speaker, in closing, i urge my colleagues in the house to support the passage of this meaningful legislation, honoring veterans in kentucky, and i yield back the remainder of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair recognizes the gentleman from tennessee. Mr. Roe reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california, mr. Takano. Mr. Takano i reserve, mr. Speaker. Mr. Roe mr. Speaker, i have no further speakers. I am ready to close. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Takano mr. Speaker, i have no further speakers. I urge my colleagues to join me in passing this meaningful piece of legislation, and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore and the gentleman, doctor, chairman from tennessee. Mr. Roe once again, i encourage all members to support this legislation, and i wish private sousley and private bowling from this army veteran to rest in peace, semper fi. With that i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields. There being no further debate, the question is will the house suspend the rules and pass the bill h. R. 4533. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 are in the affirmative i ask for a recorded vote. The speaker pro tempore the yeas and nays are requested. The gentleman requests the yeas and nays. All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays and will rise and remain standing. A sufficient number having arisen, the yeas and nays are ordered. Pursuant to clause 8, rule 20, further proceedings on this uestion will be postponed. Mr. Williams i move the house success perned the rules and pass h. R. 3542 as amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report. The clerk h. R. 3542 a a bill to impose sanctions against hamas for gross violations of human rights by reason of the use of civilians as human shields and for other purposes. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from South Carolina, mr. Wilson and the gentleman from california, mr. Sherman, each will control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from South Carolina. Mr. Williams i ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend and to include extraneous material on this measure. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Williams i ask unanimous consent to place in the record an exchange of letters between the Foreign Affairs and judiciary committees. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Williams thank you. I yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Williams im grateful for the coauthor of this legislation and a good friend, congressman seth moulton of massachusetts, a valued iraq veteran and the orange cosponsors, representative roslehtinen and congressman ted deutch. I also appreciate chairman ed royce for allowing it to proceed to a floor vote. R. 3542, the hamas human shields prevention act will sanction hamas for violating human rights standards by using civilians as human shields. For far too long, hamas has taken shelter and launched offenses including schools, hospitals and mosques. Their cowardly actions knowly put innocent lives at risk in gross violation of human rights and international law. Last june, the United Nations relief and works agency discovered hamas tunnels under two of its schools in gaza demonstrating how they integrate terrorist operations with children in civilian areas. Sadly, the iranians are willing to fight to the last palestinian man, woman and child in their people i nile ate the of israel. They havent have not answered for their crimes against humidity. The Prior Administration never raised this as a serious issues with the iranians. The cowardly iranians and hamas sacrifice innocent palestinians for their selfdestructive ideology. The world must face the threat as it continues to perpetrate atrocities. This legislation imposes direct sanctions against any hamas terrorist who is responsible for using human shields. This hamas human shields prevention act encourages the representatives to the United Nations to secure a u. N. Security council multilateral resolution imposing sanctions against hamas for the use of human shields. It should also sanction federal governments and individuals who provide material and Financial Support to hamas which would cut off the resources that allow hamas to terrorize civilians. I appreciate that Ambassador Haley has been outspoken against the murderous terrorists in the global war on terrorism. I believe this legislation will promote working to ensure that lives of innocent civilians of the citizens of gaza are spared by proactively imposing strong sanctions against hamas and their murderous actions. I reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Sherman i rise in support of this measure and i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Sherman i rise in support of h. R. 3542, the hamas human shields prevention act. This is an act that came before our committee and was adopted by voice vote unanimously. I was there. My hearing has been tested recently and there was not one dissenting voice. I want to thank the representative wilson and representative moulton for authoring the hamas human shields prevention act and im proud to be a cosponsor. This calls out the hamas and sanctions anyone who supports or takes part in this horrific practice. Let us be perfectly clear about whats at stake. There are designated terrorist entities using innocent civilians even innocent children as a means to camoflauge their ar sendingals and every time hamas does it and islamic jihad, the leadership is making a horrific statement and put a higher value to kill israeli civilians than they do on the lives of Gaza Civilians. Keep in mind, this practice is a violation of the geef conventions on the rules and laws of war. It is a war crime. And should, indeed, be sanctioned by the United Nations. First and foremost, this is an issue of basic human rights. Hamas has forced civilians to gather on the roofs of their homes so they can hide terrorist military leaders and hide weapons below. Hamas has even built their tunnels that they use to move weapons and fighters right under civilian infrastructure. This puts hospitals, schools, mosques and markets and innocent plings at great risk. And it doesnt stop there. Hamas purposely puts rockets in u. N. Facilities compelling the u. N. To launch daily inspections of each of their facilities during times of heightened tension and putting International Personnel in harms way. Hamas use of human shields raises Important National security concerns for israel, because unlike these Palestinian Terrorist groups, groups that seek to kill as many israeli civilians as possible, in contrast with that, the Israeli Defense forces are not blind and not be blind to a plight of innocent civilians. Thats why the Israeli Government has tried to warn Palestinian Civilians of upcoming strikes, including evacuation notice, Text Messages and calls and even low explosive warning knocks. These warnings just dont give innocent civilians the opportunity to evacuate. They put the terrorists on notice that a strike is imin the event, giving them an opportunity to strike. They have made an explicit decision. They care enough about warning and saving the lives of Palestinian Civilians that they are willing to give an advantage to terrorist groups, groups that are trying to kill as many israeli civilians as they possibly can. The contrast, therefore, is astounding. While israel has made bold investments in Early Morning apps on israeli phones and developed the iron dome to protect is israeli civilians, hamas makes no effort to protect Gaza Civilians and engages in activities designed to cause Gaza Civilians to be killed. Hamas puts innocent civilians in the line of fire. They hide their weapon in schools and hospitals and when the children of gaza die and innocent men and women are blown apart, hamas leadership cheers quietly for what they perceive is a propaganda coupe against the Israeli Defense forces. I support sanctions against hamas and any of its supporting organizations and supporting individuals that facilitate the hues of human shields. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and i reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentleman from South Carolina is recognized. Mr. Williams i yield four minutes to the gentlelady from florida, congresswoman roslehtinen. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady from florida is recognized. Roslehtinen rarnte thank you, so much, mr. Speaker and i thank mr. Wilson for presenting this bill and i rise in strong support of mr. Wilsons bill. And i was proud to join mr. Wilson and others as an original cosponsor. Three years ago, the house and the senate both unanimously passed a concurrent resolution which i authored which denounced the hues of human shields by hamas and any other terror group. Using human shields is an unconscionable practice and it is a gross violation of International Laws and norms. Yet, invarybly, the use of human shields ends up being a Winning Strategy for hamas . Why . Because the International Community falls for its deadly ploy. This is despite the fact that israel is unmatched in its efforts to avoid civilian casualties. We know hamas forces palestinians into becoming human shields and the terror group is known for firing on israeli targets from heavily Populated Areas or from places like schools or mosques. They do this on purpose. The disgusting practice underscores the fact that hamas doesnt care at all about the wellbeing of the palestinian people. And the sole purpose of hamas is to try to force israel into a situation in which it may harm civilians hoping to turn then public sentiment against the jewish state. Mr. Wilsons bill, therefore, puts down an important marker, mr. Speaker. It builds upon our previous efforts by adding punitive measures, identifying and then sanctioning anyone affiliated with hamas who does use human shields. Responsible nations must not allow hamas to continue to use this cynical ploy. And we in the United States, we have the responsibility to lead and ensure this gruesome tactic is ended once and for all. So i thank mr. Wilson from South Carolina for this initiative and i urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this important and much needed measure before us today. Thank you, mr. Wilson for highlighting what a cynical, deadly and disgusting ploy being used. And i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the entleman from South Carolina reserves. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Sherman i reserve. Mr. Williams i yield to the gentleman from new jersey, congressman chris smith, chairman of the Foreign Affairs of subcommittee, africa, global health, Global Human Rights and international organization. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from new jersey is recognized. Mr. Smith i thank my good friend for yielding. I rise in strong support of the hamas human shield prevention act authored by joe wilson and we are grateful he has brought this important legislation to the floor. H. R. 3542 is a critical and commonsense measure that addresses hamas practice of endangering civilian lives for the sake of its Terror Campaign against the state of israel. Many independent observers attest to their strategy of locating military equipment and locations amidst this civilian infrastructure. A 2015 Amnesty International report entitled unlawful and deadly, pokesed this conduct by the Palestinian Terrorist groups during israels 2014 operation protected edge in the gaza strip. The report documented examples of quote, attacks launch from the vicinity of civilian buildings or from residential areas. In addition to the use of this, for other military purposes, such as storing munitions. Rocket launcher located 50 meters from a hotel frequented by international correspondence, 100 meters away from a u. N. Building and very near several homes. The footage showed children playing next to the rocket launchers. Amnesty further documented the discovery of, quote, palestinian munitions and three vacant schools in the gaza strip during the conflict. One of these schools, although vacant, had two schools on either side of it that were hosting about 1,500 displaced civilians. Mr. Speaker, hamas perverse practice of shield military infrastructure has not abated since the 2014 gaza war. Military infrastructure in schools on an alarmingly regular basis. Last year alone the agency found two tunnels located under its schools in the gaza strip. Of course, human rights reports and unrwa statements account for only a limited scope of allegations documented by international organizations, credible n. G. O. s. The real scope of the human shield policy is certainly far greater. Israeli authorities reported 3,600 palestinian rockets launched in the first month and a half of protected edge, 1,600 of those rockets, nearly 45 were fired from civilian areas. H. R. 3542 rightfully calls on the administration to use their voice and vote in the United Nations Security Council to impose multilateral sanctions on hamas for this disgraceful pattern of exploiting innocent civilians, including women and children, so they can rain rockets on innocent israelis with greater impunity. It would sbose visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and entities that direct or facilitate hamas use of human shields. By supporting this measure, mr. Speaker, this house can advance the cause of civilian protection for israelis and palestinians alike. Again, i want to thank mr. Wilson for this excellent bill and i yield back my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from new jersey yields back. The gentleman from South Carolina reserves. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Sherman i have no speakers on this side so ill make a few remarks. Mr. Speaker, i want to put this in the broader context he of the palestinianisraeli conflict. A palestinian state will not be born as a result of the use of human shields. No country can make peace with a group that uses its own women and children in that manner. And no country can build peace with a nation or an entity that makes the violation of the geneva conventions and the International Rules of law established military policy. Im a Firm Believer in a twostate solution that results in a secure jewish state of israel and a peaceful palestinian state by its side. I hope that this legislation will help move toward that end because it seeks to empower those who want to make peace and sanctions those who cheapen human life and violate international law. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, which passed in our Committee Without a descending voice, and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california yields back. The gentleman from South Carolina is recognized. Mr. Wilson i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Wilson first, id like to thank congressman sherman for his leadership in this Bipartisan Legislation which will make a difference on behalf of the people of gaza and on behalf of the people of israel. The terrorists of hamas hide behind schoolchildren, hospital patients and other vulnerable civilians. This cowardly use of human shields is a grave human rights abuse that must be stopped which sacrifices the lives of innocent palestinians. I want to thank the bipartisan sponsors of the hamas human shield prevention act which deserves our unanimous support and point out the osponsorship by congressman moulton of massachusetts. I yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back. The question is will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 3542, as amended. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 having responded in the affirmative mr. Wilson mr. Speaker, on that i request the yeas and nays. The speaker pro tempore the yeas and nays are requested. All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remain standing until counted. A sufficient number having arisen, yeas and nays are ordered. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule 20, further proceedings on this uestion will be postponed. For what purpose does the gentleman from South Carolina seek recognition . Mr. Wilson mr. Speaker, i move that the house suspend the ules and pass House Resolution 129 as amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the resolution. The clerk House Resolution 129, resolution calling on the department of defense, other elements of the federal government, and foreign governments to intensify efforts to investigate, recover, and identify all missing and unaccountedfor personnel of the United States. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from South Carolina, mr. Wilson, and the gentleman from california, mr. Sherman, will each control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from South Carolina. Mr. Wilson i ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to evise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on this measure. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Wilson i also ask unanimous consent to place into the record an exchange of letters between the Foreign Affairs and the Armed Services committees. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Wilson thank you. I yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Wilson i rise in strong support of House Resolution 129, which recommits us to the sacred test of accounting fully for our troops who are still missing and unaccounted for in past wars and conflicts. From world war ii onward, more than 82,000 u. S. Personnel have not come home and are not accounted for. That means for tens of thousands of american families, friends and comrades in arms, the pain of uncertainty continues to this very day. This resolution also calls upon foreign nations to fully cooperate and to provide the all the wmia with information those countries may have. Its especially appropriate we are considering this resolution this week, which marks the 45th anniversary of operation homecoming, which secured the return of more than 550 american prisoners of war from vietnam. This group that left hanoi on february 12, 1973, included an american Fighter Pilot whose f4 was shot over vietnam in 1966. When he ejected from his plane, he had suffered a broken arm, a broken back, and a dislocated shoulder. But that was only the start of his ordeal. This pilot spent nearly seven years as a prisoner of war and enduring torture, abuse, and an incomprehensible three years in solitary confinement. For 18 months he shared a cell ith senator john mccain it the infamous hanoi hilton. He was awarded two silver stars, two legions of merit, the distinguished flying cross, one bronze star with valor, two purple hearts and numerous other deserved awards. After that pilot returned home, he stated, quote, the freedoms that most americans take for granted are in fact real and must be preserved. I have returned to a great nation and our sacrifices have been well worth the effort. I pledge to continue to serve and fight to protect the freedoms and ideals that the United States stands for, end of quote. Well, we know that that pilot did continue to serve, not only in the military. Hes the former combat warrior and prisoner of war, an American Hero and a member of congress. His name is sam johnson, and we are honored by his presence in the chamber today. I want to thank congressman johnson for introducing this resolution but even more, we all, every american wants to thank him for his life of valor and service. House resolution 129 is an opportunity to renew our pledge to our men and women in uniform and to the families of those who have gone missing in service to our country. We will leave no one behind, and we will not forget our solemn sacrifices laid upon the alter of freedom. I urge support altar of freedom. I urge support of this resolution and reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from South Carolina reserves. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Sherman i rise in support of this measure and i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Sherman i rise in support of h. Res. 129, calling on the department of defense and other elements of the federal government and foreign governments to intensify efforts to investigate, recover, and identify all missing and unaccountedfor personnel of the United States. I rise in support of h. Res. 129, which affirms our governments commitment to investigating and recovering missing american personnel. I especially want to thank representative sam johnson, not only for introducing this resolution, but for embodying our dedication to those who are captured or missing. Whose service to this country seven years as a p. O. W. , three of those in solitary confinement, exemplify the highest honor of our military forces. I also want to thank chairman royce for bringing this resolution forward. Our brave soldiers risk their lives for our country every day, and when they go missing, we owe it to them never to give up. No matter how many years pass, no matter how many miles we must travel, our search for them must continue. More than 83,000 personnel of the United States are still unaccounted for around the world from past wars and conflicts. This is the equivalent of an entire city, and their families are mourning the loss of ones they hold dear. Although an estimated 50,000 of these are world war ii personnel lost at sea and sadly and likely to ever be recovered, we must continue our efforts whenever there is any possibility of discovering and recovering an american who has been lost in the service to our country. Our brave men and women expect when they make the ultimate sacrifice we will make extraordinary efforts to recover them, and if we dont do exactly that, we are not only failing those families but also one of our militarys most sacred principles leave no man or woman behind. We honor this principle because it reminds us unlike many of our enemies whose souls are reviewed as expendable pawns of the regime, we value each and every life. Those missing in action need to be returned home to their families where they belong. This resolution has a simple message for our government, its time to intensify our efforts to investigate, recover, and identify and account as fully as possible for all those missing and unaccounted for american personnel. It also urges foreign governments to cooperate with us in these important efforts so that every soldier, sailor, and marine gets the homecoming they deserve. And airmen as well. Thank you to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve our great country and the principles we stand for. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california reserves. The gentleman from South Carolina is recognized. Mr. Wilson i yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from texas, congressman sam johnson, the author of this measure, a former Fighter Pilot and prisoner of war and a true American Hero. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized. R. Johnson god bless you, both. Thank you for what you said. I rise in strong support of the ouse resolution 129. Mr. Speaker, this resolution i introduced calls for an intensified effort to account for the tens of thousands of American Service member who are still missing in action. Many folks dont realize there are still more than 82,000 american Service Members who remain unaccounted for. In fact, i myself was classified as missing in action or almost two years after my shootdown over North Vietnam in 1966. Thats why its so meaningful to have this resolution on the house floor during the 45th anniversary of operation homecoming. Which brought me and my fellow vietnam p. O. W. s back to our block ofed country after many long years in hell on earth. During my time as an m. I. A. , my family was unsure where i was or whether i was even alive or dead. But my devotion and my devoted wife, shirley, and countless other families with the National League of p. O. W. Mia families continuously p. O. W. M. I. A. Families continuously advocated for the rush of all our p. O. W. A return of all our p. O. W. s and m. I. A. s from the vietnam war. And its because of their tireless work and by the grace of god that my fellow p. O. W. s and i were reunited with our this s 45 years ago week. Im joined today by my two daughters, jenny and beverly, who along with my late wife were a key part of the effort to bring us home. Mr. Speaker, id like to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the strength and the devotion of my two to lovely daughters, jenny and beverly. I think theyre seated in the gallery. Thank you so much. But, mr. Speaker, we must never forget our troops who still remain missing in action. And we must never forget their families who anxiously await a final accounting of their loved ones. In many cases so much time has gone by that it has fallen to the next generation to repatriate their missing family members. They deserve our dedicated help and support. After my return from vietnam, i vowed to continue to fight for our missing troops and their families. During families during my time serving in the u. S. Russia joint commission on p. O. W. s and m. I. A. s. I traveled the world to places like laos, cambodia, vietnam, and even to the Russian Military archives in moscow to try to find our missing troops. And i will never stop fighting. For the families of our troops who remain missing in action, his resolution is for you. This resolution calls on the United States government and the department of defense to dill jenltly continue efforts to investigate, recover and to diligently continue efforts to investigate, recover and identifyify missing u. S. Personnel around the identify missing u. S. Personnel around the world. It also calls on foreign governments who have governments who have information on our missing personnel to cooperate fully with our government. We must remain united in our efforts to recover all our missing troops and to never forget their sacrifice. I would also urge my colleagues to remember that while i was in the hanoi hilton, the North Vietnamese told my fellow p. O. W. s and me that our country had forgotten us. As the days turned into years, we had to fight that fear. The feeling of being alone and forgotten is horrible. And the families of p. O. W. s and m. I. A. s feel a similar pain. Thats why i will continue to make every effort to repatriate my missing brothers and sisters in arms and hold true to the behind. O man left but i also call on all current and future members of congress to carry the mantle. We cannot and must not forget the faithful service men and women who deserve to be brought home to the country they gave all to protect. It is my sincere hope that we ll one day bring home all of americas missing patriots. These heroes deserve to return to american soil with all our honor and respect. And their families deserve the closure of their loved ones, that they have waited for for so long. Mr. Speaker, i ask for the support of all of my colleagues and that they join me in supporting this important resolution. And i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the chair would gently remind members from to refrain from referencing people in the gallery. The gentleman from california is recognized. I reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california reserves. The gentleman from South Carolina is recognized. Mr. Chairman, i yield four minutes to the gentleman from new jersey, mr. Chris smith, chairman of the Foreign Affairs subcommittee on africa, global health, Global Human Rights and international organizations, and a long standing leader on behalf of Veterans Issues. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from new jersey is recognized. Mr. Smith thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise in strong support of sam johnsons resolution. A truly heroic man who has suffered so much for our country. And i want to thank him for that. You know, i would say to my colleagues, having read and observed sam for so many years, words are inadequate, theyre truly inadequate to describe his currently, his tenacity, his faith, his faith in god, and his valor. He is really a hero who stands above i mean, with few peers. So, sam, thank you for your leadership. Thank you for being who you are. And your family, its just a privilege to know you and to be up here supporting legislation that you have sponsored for a full and thorough accounting of all of our p. O. W. And m. I. A. s. And as members know, you know, access to the battlefield is important. And with regards to japan, italy and nazi germany, with whom today germans, obviously the japanese, and the italians, we are Close Friends and allies. So those who went missing in those battlefields certainly the presumption of death can be made in many instances. Thats not the case, mr. Speaker when it comes to north korea mr. Speaker, when it comes to north korea. Where there is no access to the battlefield, where we remain and the families remain in agony for decades with what happened to their individuals. With regard to vietnam, there were many live sightings, especially after the prisoners were when sam came home and others, of people who were observed on the ground. I was part of the p. O. W. M. I. A. Task force in congress in the 1980s. And jerry solomon and others and i traveled to vietnam to talk about those live sightings and the fact that the vietnamese did not provide a full accounting and many who were observed went missing and we think they may have been executed by the vietnamese long after the peace treaty was signed. So, we do have some cooperation, as we all know, to places, crash sites and the like. Thats all good. Its certainly not enough. We do not have unfettered access to the battlefield and that remains a reason why our great and distinguished colleague, sam johnson, is offering this resolution. We need to redouble our efforts. I would just point out for the record that sam johnson influence 62 combat missions in the flew 62 combat missions in the vietnam, he was in the air force for 29 years. He commanded two airbases, among other things. Hes a life long fighter, student of war, combat warrior, leader of men, and of course a prisoner of war. As my colleagues and i have all noted, he spent nearly seven years as a prisoner of war in vietnam. Where torture was systemic. He endured that systematic. He endured that. Overcame that. And of course with his faith became a great inspiration to all of us of someone who has suffered so much and yet continues to have strong faith in god and a faith in humanity. As he pointed out in a statement, when he left he was 140 pounds. When he was let out. He also was pointed out that he was in solitary confinement and in leg stocks, like the pilgrims, as he put it, for 72 days. Then foling day, after he was let out, he the following day, after he was let out, he couldnt walk. He was in leg irons for 2 1 2 years. A tight metal cup around each ankle with a footlong bar connecting the legs. He still has little feeling in the right arm and his right hand. After those 2,500 days of captivity. Again, i cant say it enough. He even has said in the past he cease a Silver Lining because he sees a Silver Lining, because he still has a dream for the few turks which some people would have lost future, which some people would have lost a long time ago, just gave up. A man who has suffered so much, has overcome so much, and remains an optimist deep in his heart. So, again, words are inadequate to describe our colleague. He is the definition of courage. I yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. The gentleman from South Carolina reserves. The gentleman from california is recognized. Having no speakers on our side, i yield myself as much time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Sherman mr. Speaker, i want to add my voice to the voice of every other speaker on this resolution. For what an honor it has been to serve with sam johnson. And to see his example of service on the floor of this house every day. I want to reiterate the importance of this resolution. It sends a crist cal critical message to our military families that their sacrifices are not forgotten. Our government must never give up until every last american is returned to their families and to their homeland. Today it is easy to think of congress as a body divided between republicans and democrats. But ultimately we are all americans. And each and every one of us owes a huge debt of gratitude to our troops serving today and those who have served in the past. Their valor and courage have defined our nations course. We applaud them. We honor them. And we will do everything in our power to see that those who remain unaccounted for are returned home. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california yields back. The gentleman from South Carolina is recognized. Mr. Wilson i yield myself such time as i may consume. As i close i want to commend the agency which account which continues the noble work of accounting for our missing troops and personnel day in and day out around the world. I also want to express gratitude to those groups that continue to keep the home fires burning bright for the many families that are still awaiting concrete information on their loved ones. These include the National League of p. O. W. M. I. A. Families. The american legion. The veterans of foreign wars, disabled American Veterans. The jewish war veterans. Amveterans. Vietnam veterans of america. The special forces association. The special operations association. And rolling thunder. And finally, we again want to thank congressman sam johnson for introducing this resolution and for simplifying the ideals of service, sacrifice and honor. He was recognized by his communist oppressors as one of the most stubborn prisoners. A true tribute of his courage. All members of congress of both parties cherish the service of congressman sam johnson. I urge support for the resolution 129 and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from South Carolina yields back. The question is, will the house suspend the rules and agree to House Resolution 129, as amended. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 of those voting having responded in the affirmative, Russell Wilson mr. Speaker. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Johnson i ask for a record vote. Russell wilson i join with our mr. Wilson i join with the gentleman from texas to request the yeas and nays. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized to make a motion. Youd like the yeas and nays, sir . Mr. Johnson i request the yeas and nays. The speaker pro tempore the yeas and nays are requested. All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remaining standing until counted remain standing until counted. A sufficient number having arisen, the yeas and nays are ordered. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule 20, further proceedings on this uestion will be postponed. The speaker pro tempore for what purpose does the gentleman from kansas seek recognition . Mr. Speaker, i move to suspend the rules and pass the bill, h. R. 4675, the lowdose Radiation Research act of 2018, as amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the able to. The clerk h. R. 4675. A bill to amend the Energy Policy act of 2005, to provide for a lowdose radiation basic Research Program. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from kansas, mr. Marshall, and the gentlewoman from texas, ms. Johnson, each will control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from kansas. Marly rivera mr. Speaker, i ask unanimous con mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill now under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Marshall i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i rise in support of h. R. 4675, the lowdose Radiation Research act of 2018. H. R. 4675 requires the department of energy to carry out a Research Program on lowdose radiation within the office of science. This program will increase our understanding of the Health Effects that lowdoses of ionizing radiation have on biological systems. Every day humans are exposed to lowdoses of radiation. Its the product of industrial activities, commercial processes, medical procedures and naturally occurring systems. Research has consistently shown us the adverse Health Effects associated with high doses of radiation. But the Health Risks Associated with exposure of lowdoses of radiation are much more difficult to observe and we are a long way away from understanding and accurately assessing this risk. In the absence of conclusive evidence, agencies like the department of energy, the food and drug administration, and the Environmental Protection agency are obligated to assume that any exposure to radiation increases the risk of harmful human effects. Without additional research, federal agencies have no way to measure if theres a safe radiation exposure threshold. Our research and understanding of the health risks directly impairs our ability to address potential radiological events and medically based radiation exposures it. May also result in overly stringent regulatory standards, prohibit opportunities and imposing an undue economic burden on American People. As a physician in my home state of texas, ive had the firsthand understanding of crucial importance of verified research to ensure the best medical outcomes for my patients. For instance, an adult patient who receives a c. T. Scan of the abdomen and pelvis is exposed to approximately three years worth of natural radiation at once. The c. T. Scan is an invaluable tool, replacing many invasive surgical procedures. And is a medical necessity for countless americans. Broad ere is a onsensus among the radio biology community that can make better informed decisions regarding these risks. Its no surprise this bill has received the support from the Health Physics society, the merican association of physicians and medicine, Radiation Research society, American Society for radiation oncology, and leading researchers from Northwestern University and columbia university. Id especially like to thank chairman lamar smith, representative lipinski and chairman randy weber for cosponsoring this legislation. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from kansas reserves. The gentlewoman from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise in support of h. R. 4675, the low dose Radiation Research act of 2018. The department of energy funds Cutting Edge Research across a variety of disciplines. For many years, d. O. E. Had research into low dose radiation exposure. This included studies into the effects of radiation exposure at higher risk populations and e examination of the changes happens posed under radiation. This expanded our understanding of radiation exposure. Over the past several years, this Research Program was ramped up and eventually. Iminated ramped down. Sorry. However, there is much more that should be explored and the department of energy is best positioned to lead this effort. In coordination with other federal agencies that have a stake in this work, expanding our understanding of low dose radiation could improve how we utilize medical diagnostic tools or change how we regulate Nuclear Power plants. Radiation is all around us every day. When we fly on a plane or walk into a Building Made of limestone like much like the one we are in now, we experience a small increase in our radiation exposure. But we still dont have an answer to the fundamental question of what that means for our health. Are there healthy levels of radiation exposure, or are they all directly tied to an increased risk to cancer . What is an acceptable level for longterm human health . The answer to these fundamental questions can only be found by properly investing in the research field. I am hopeful that recon city tuitting this program reconstituting this program at d. O. E. Will expand humankinds understanding of radiation exposure. D. O. E. Is the right place to do this work, and the benefits should be numerous and invaluable. I want to thank mr. Marshall for introducing this bill, and i strongly support this bill and encourages my colleagues to do the same. I reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas reserves. The gentleman from kansas is recognized. Mr. Marshall id like to yield to the gentleman from texas, the chairman of the Science Committee, lamar smith. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Smith i want to thank Roger Marshall for yielding me time on his bill, h. R. 4675, research se radiation act of 2017. This reauthorizes a lowdose Radiation Research Program Within the biological and environmental Research Program at the department of energy. This basic research is part of the Science Committees continued effort to ensure america remains a leader in foundational science and innovation. The d. O. E. Lowdose radiation basic Research Program will analyze and seek to determine any Health Impacts of low levels of radiation, providing Critical Knowledge to our nations researchers, industry, Health Care Community and military as they handle nuclear material, maintain the Nations Nuclear weapons program, provide medical treatment and dispose of nuclear waste. Lowdose Radiation Research can benefit regulate agencies that set Nuclear Safety standards for the public. This will enable federal Emergency Response agencies to more accurately set areas of evacuation for radiological incidents. The research is also particularly of importance to physicians who rely on a thorough level of Radiation Health risk to determine when and how to use lifesaving diagnostics, to detect and deter and treat cancers in patients. I thank vice chairman marshall for developing and managing this important legislation, and i urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill and yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas yields back. The gentlewoman from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson mr. Speaker, may i ask if there are other speakers on the other side . Mr. Marshall we have one more additional speaker. Ms. Johnson i continue to reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentlewoman from texas reserves. The gentleman from kansas is recognized. Mr. Marshall i yield two minutes to the gentleman from texas, the chairman of the Energy Subcommittee, mr. Randy weber. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Weber i appreciate that. I appreciate congressman marshalls bill coming up today. Mr. Speaker, i rise in support of h. R. 4675, the lowdose Radiation Research act of 2018. This legislation authorizes a Research Program on the Health Effects of lowdose radiation within department of energys office of science. Currently, key functions of the United States nuclear and medical industries are guided by assumptionbased radiation dose limits and protections. In order to best serve our nations energy, medical, and defense needs, we need Foundational Research in the radiology and biology to directly define the impact of low doses of radiation. The United States should not rely on a, quote, best approximation, end quote, when it comes to our nuclear regulate policies. Mr. Speaker, today we have an opportunity to ensure that we as a nation are doing everything we can to make certain that the regulations, the guidelines, and the protections that we put in place are grounded in sound science. Again, i want to thank congressman marshall for introducing this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas yields back. Mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i have no further speakers at this time and i continue to reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from kansas reserves. The gentlewoman from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you very much, mr. Speaker. I urge the passage of the bill. I have no further requests for time, and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentlewoman from texas yields back. The gentleman from kansas is recognized. Mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i have no further requests for time and i am prepared to close. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Marshall mr. Speaker, i yield myself such time as i may consume. H. R. 4675 authorizes a critical Research Program and radiation biology and will help ensure we are basing our industrial, commercial, and medical regulations on the best available science. I want to once again thank my colleagues on the Science Committee who have cosponsored h. R. 4675, including chairman lamar smith, representative dan lipinski, and Energy Subcommittee chairman randy weber. I also want to thank the numerous researchers and stakeholders who provided feed b. C. A. As we developed this legislation feedback as we developed this legislation. I encourage my colleagues to support this Bipartisan Legislation, and yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from kansas yields back. The question is will the house suspend the rules and pass the ill h. R. 4675, as amended. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 having responded in the affirmative, the rules are suspended, the bill is passed, and without objection the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. For what purpose does the gentleman from illinois seek recognition . Mr. Hultgren mr. Speaker, i move to suspend the rules and , the he bill h. R. 4377, accelerating American Leadership in science act of 2017, as amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the title of the bill. To clerk h. R. 4377, a bill direct the secretary of energy to carry out an upgrade to Research Equipment and construct Research User facilities, and for other purposes. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from illinois, mr. Hultgren, and the gentlewoman from texas, ms. Johnson, will each control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from illinois. Mr. Hultgren mr. Speaker, i ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on h. R. 4377, the bill now under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Hultgren i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Hultgren i urge support for h. R. 4377, the accelerating American Leadership in science act. This is a key component in todays package of bills that maintains to the commitment to advance our economy and maintain our national defense. I commend chairman smith for his work on these bills and his support for the underlying bill. I also thank my colleagues from illinois for their bipartisan support of this legislation as well as the Ranking Member for her support. The department of energy operates and maintains a number of user facilities open to the Broader Research community when no one university or business could ever bring together. I have firsthand seen firsthand in illinois the impact of these investments they provide to the american public. It was one m. R. I. Machines we have all taken advantage of and this was an unintended byproduct of basic Scientific Research by physicists trying to look at the smallest Building Blocks of matter. Is is a long base lab from illinois to south dakota. This project is an important milestone in American Science serving as the first major internationally hosted facility in the United States. Having already gained the support of more than 1,000 scientists from 30 countries, this is a successful model more how large science can be done in the future. Not only have we gained the support of the broad erskine tisk community but weve seen the investment for the first time outside of their lab and the u. K. Has already pledged 88 million to be a part. When america chooses to lead in these scientific fields, we bring the world with us and remain the single location for the best and brightest to continue doing their groundbreaking work. Its been inspirational just to be part of this process. This legislation also authorizes funding for advance foe ton source at Argon National lab. I had the pleasure to see the work done at this lab which my two colleagues and cosponsors from illinois represent. It is the premiere facility for xray science in the United States. Nearly 6,000 researchers access this facility every year to do the kind of research that cannot be done at University Campuses or Industrial Research facilities. Every year more than every year more than 1,000 researchers from illinois alone access this facility. Research coming from a. P. S. Has led to two prizes in chemistry and new treatments for hisk. The work they are contributing h. I. V. The work they are contributing on to better understand the materials for batteries are chipping away at the Energy Storage advancements we need for newer, zeroemission Energy Sources to reliably come online. These are the Success Stories we should be champions in congress and these are the results i want to continue seeing for future generations here in the United States. Another facility, which this legislation authorizes upgrades for, is the oak ribbling National Laboratories ridge National Laboratories. This has received unanimous support from the research community, with the d. O. E. Basic Energy Sciences advisory committee, calling these upgrades absolutely central to contribute to worldleading science. With the most intense postnewt ron beam in the world, it will continue probing Material Properties at the atomic level so that we can better build better materials with uses from better batteries, more target cures, to cleaner water. I want to thank you again, mr. Speaker, for the opportunity to speak in support of this bill. And i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from illinois reserves. The gentlewoman from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise in support of h. R. 4377, ac set rating American Leadership in science act of 2018. And i yield myself as much time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentlewoman is recognized. Mr. Johnson jonls the department of energy is the ms. Johnson the department of energy is the home to the most advanced Research Facilities in the world. For decades weve been able to provide scientists with the tools and resources to push the frontiers of innovation and answer the fundamental questions of science, because we invested in our National Laboratories. Laboratories, universities and publicprivate partnerships in science and technology. Unfortunately we face budget proposals from the this administration that seem to be completely out of touch with that rich history and the realities of our global competition. This bill will put statutory requirements in place mandating that the department of energy fund crucial updates to user facilities. The basic energy, Science Advisory Committee recommended many of these upgrades to d. O. E. In a 2016 report. In this bill, the National Laboratory would be authorized to upgrade the capabilities of the advanced photon source. This upgrade will greatly advance our ability to determine the atomic and electronic structure of materials mol he can lar system and their chemical reactions. The inside gain in these important experiments can be transformtific for science and our economy and wellbeing. The bill also includes upgrades the spallation newt ron source of neutron source of grid laboratory. It will soon be home to the most advanced neutron source in the world. If we hope to maintain our leadership in neutron science theerks two upgrades are crit science, these two upgrades are critical. Finally, this bill authorizes a long baseline facility, the centerpiece of the International Collaboration on the deep underground experiment. U. S. Leadership on this project is vital to maintaining our reputation as the worlds leader in fundamental physical sciences research. Funding these facilities is planting the seeds of innovation and knowledge for future generations. The fruit from these investments will benefit our society for years to come. I strongly support this bill and encourage my colleagues to do the same. I reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentlewoman from texas reserves. The gentleman from illinois is recognized. Thank you, mr. Speaker. Its my great honor to yield three minutes to the gentleman from texas, the distinguished chairman of the Science Committee, chairman smith. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Smith mr. Speaker, i want to thank the gentleman from illinois, representative Randy Hultgren, for yielding me time on his bill. H. R. 4377. The accelerating American Leadership in science act. This legislation, cosponsored by representative bill foster, randy weber, steve knight, and representative danley pinsky, authorizes funding from danley pinsky, authorizes dan lipinski, authorizes funding. The bill authorizes upbradies to the advanced photon source at Argon National lab and the spallation neutron source at oak Ridge National lab it. Funds the construction of a ong baseline nutrino facility. The advanced photon source is one of the most advanced Radiation Research facilities in the world. It produces ultrabright, highenergy xray beams that allow scientists to study the structure and behavior of materials which enables the development of new technologies in farm suit caps. The upgrade altogether pharmaceuticals. The upgrade will use new technology to increase the brightness of photon beems, allowing researchers to observe materials at extremely small scales. The spallation neutron source is a oneofakind neutron scattering facility that provides the most intense pulsed neutron beams in the world for Scientific Research and industrial development. This source of brighter and more intense neutrons enables scientists to make sensitive measurements in complex environments with higher resolution speed than any existing neutron facility. H. R. 4377 authorizes a power upgrade and a second target station to build on the success of the spallation neutron source. The proen to power upgrade will double the energy of the beam. The second target station will double the number of beam lines at the facility, expanding the number of opportunities for cuttingedge neutronning research at oak ridge neutron scattering research at oak ridge. Combined the enhancements will allow these Research Tools to reach their full potential and provide for worldleading basic Energy Science programs here in the u. S. Representative hultgrens bill also authorizes a long baseline nutrino facility at a National Accelerator lab. Lbnf will consist of the worlds highest intensity nutrino beam to run the deep experiment. This experiment will measure the nutrino beam generated on innovative detectors located 800 miles away at the Stanford Underground Research Facility in south dakota. I thank representative hultgren for his initiative in developing this legislation. His long standing support of basic research and investments in these best in the world science facilities is well known. H. R. 4377 is a commonsense bill that maintains American Leadership in discovery science. I urge my colleagues to support this Bipartisan Legislation and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. Mr. Hultgren i research reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentlewoman from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson i reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentlewoman from texas reserves. The gentleman from illinois is recognized. Mr. Hultgren thank you, mr. Speaker. I am very privileged to yield two minutes to the gentleman from texas, the chairman of the Energy Subcommittee, mr. Randy weber. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Webster mr. Weber thank you, mr. Speaker. Thank you, congressman hultgren. I appreciate that. Mr. Speaker, i rise today in upport of h. R. 4377, the accelerating American Leadership in science act of 2018. This legislation authorizes very important upgrades to d. O. E. Photon and neutron sources at two National Labs. In addition, it funds the construction of the long baseline knew torino facility nutrino facility, the First International High Energy Physics facility located in the United States of america. Over 1,000 scientists from 30 countries are already collaborating on this project. Let me repeat that. Over 1,000 scientists from 30 countries are already collaborating on this very important probably. Again, i want to thank my colleague, congressman hultgren, for introducing this important legislation and for his continued support of the National Labs and, mr. Speaker, i yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Hultgren i want to thank my colleague, chairman weber, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson mr. Speaker, i have no requests for time. I support the bill and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady yields back. The gentleman from illinois is recognized. Mr. Hultgren mr. Speaker, i again want to reiterate my support for this important legislation, to keep the United States at the forefront of discovery and fundamental research. I thank my colleagues for their support and encourage passage of h. R. 4377. And with that i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentleman yields back the balance of his time. The question is, will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 4377. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 of those voting having responded in the affirmative, the rules are suspended, the bill is passed. Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid upon the table. Without objection, the title is amended. For what purpose does the gentleman from texas seek recognition . Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i move to suspend the rules and pass the bill, h. R. 4378, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act of 2018. As amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the able to. The clerk the title of the bill. The clerk h. R. 4378, a bill to direct the secretary of energy to carry out the construction of a versatile reactorbased fast neutron source and for other purposes. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from texas, mr. Weber, and the gentlewoman from texas, ms. Johnson, each control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from texas. Mr. Weber thank you, mr. Speaker. I ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on h. R. 4378, the bill now under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i rise in support of h. R. 4378, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act of 2018. Over the past three years, the Science Committee has held hearings, met with stakeholders and worked extensively with our colleagues in the senate to draft the Nuclear Energy innovation capabilities act, the precursor to todays bill. This comprehensive bipartisan authorization bill directs the department of energy to invest in supercomputing capabilities, created a framework for d. O. E. To partner with the private sector to host Prototype Development for advanced reactors and laid out a clear timeline and parameters for d. O. E. To build that Research Reactor. Mr. Speaker, this bill passed the house three times last congress. And passed the house again in january. As part of h. R. 589, known as the d. O. E. Research and innovation act. The Research Reactor or versatile neutron source authorized in that bill, mr. Speaker, is crucial for the development of advanced reactor designs, materials and nuclear fuels. This type of research requires access to fast neutrons, which are currently only available for civilian research in russia. While modeling and simulation modeling and simulation can accelerate r d, Nuclear Energy research must be validated through a physical source, mr. Speaker. Like a Research Reactor. The bill which we will consider today, h. R. 4378, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act, authorizes specific funding from within the d. O. E. Office of Nuclear Energy for the construction of that versatile neutron source. Building this open access user facility in the d. O. E. National lab system will facilitate Nuclear Energy research in the United States. The access to fast neutrons this reactor provides can support private Sector Development of the next generation of materials and fuels needed for advanced Nuclear Reactor technology. It will verify data on new fuels, materials and designs more efficiently which will expedite regulate approval for those advanced Nuclear Reactors. Without this user facility, mr. Speaker, this research simply will not take place and we cannot afford to lose the ability to develop an innovative Nuclear Technology right here at home. This bill will also help maintain americas capability to influence security and proliferation standards around the world by maintaining cutting edge Nuclear Science. Mr. Speaker, as more developing nations look to Nuclear Energy to grow their economies, our role in protecting Nuclear Technology grows. By building this user facility, we will fortify the u. S. Commitment to safely advancing Nuclear Energy. This is a commonsense bill. It will maintain American Leadership in Nuclear Power. I want to thank Ranking Member johnson and chairman smith for cosponsoring this important legislation and for their leadership in advocating for Nuclear Energy research and development. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with my fellow texans to guide research that will keep america not only safe but globally competitive. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you, mr. Speaker. I rise in support of h. R. 4378, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act, and im pleased to cosponsor this bill and i yield myself such time as i may consume. This legislation marks another accomplishment in our committees strong bipartisan effort to support the development of advanced Nuclear Energy technologies. Today, Nuclear Power plays a vital role in providing our country with clean, reliable energy. But there are currently technical, economic, and policy changes that prevent this resource from playing a larger role in enabling our clean energy future. This bill, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act, will help address these challenges. It expands on a provision included in another bill that i cosponsored with mr. Weber and 431, the an, h. R. Nuclear Energy Capabilities act, which passed the house early last year on a voice vote, as part of yet another bill that i cosponsored with these two gentlemen, h. R. 589, the department of Energy Research and innovation act. The bill before us today would provide the department of energy with the direction and funding it needs to create a National User facility with critical capabilities to enable the development of a wide range of advanced nurke Energy Concepts Nuclear Energy concepts here in the United States. I am hopeful that if we provide our scientists and Industry Leaders with the right tools, they can fulfill the promise of clean Nuclear Energy that is significantly safer, less expensive, more efficient, and produces less waste than the Current Fleet of reactors. I also strongly support the nclusion of explicit funding in this authorization. Providing the department and congressional appropriators with a funding profile for Research Activities and projects is a crucial responsibility in our role as the authorizing committee. In particular, it helps ensure that the construction of Cutting Edge Research facilities, like this one, have the resources they need to be completed on time and on budget, thus making sure the u. S. Taxpayers that are footing these bills are getting the their lue from hardearned dollars. I ask my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill and i look forward to continuing to wrk with my colleagues on work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle as we strengthen Americas Research enterprise across the board. I reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady reserves. The gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Weber thank you, mr. Speaker. At this time its my distinct honor to yield three minutes to the gentleman from texas, the chairman of the full Science Committee, chairman smith. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Smith mr. Speaker, first of all, let me thank the gentleman from texas, the chairman of the Energy Subcommittee, representative randy weber, for yielding me time on his bill, which is h. R. 4378, the Nuclear Energy Research Infrastructure act. H. R. 478, cosponsored by ms. 378, cosponsored by Eddie Bernice johnson, mr. Lipinski, mr. Knight, and mr. Hultgren, a facility that will facilitate the next generation of Nuclear Reactors by the private sector. This bill builds on and mplements chairman webers bill which passed the house by bipartisan in the last congress. Advanced Nuclear Technology provides the best opportunity to make reliable and emissionfree electricity throughout the developing world. This user facility will ensure that u. S. Companies develop Nuclear Technology here in the United States. Today the only first of fast neutrinos is in russia, making it impossible for american entrepreneurs to conduct the testing and validation needed to deploy commercial advanced reactors. America must also maintain our edge in Nuclear Science in order to influence global nonproliferation standards. The user facility authorized in this legislation will ensure the next generation of Nuclear Technology is safely developed here at home. This allows america to export Nuclear Technology which helps prevent civilian Nuclear Energy technology from being misused for Weapons Development overseas. Want to thank the bills cosponsors for their long standing support for Nuclear Energy innovation and commitment to ensure we have the best nuclear Research Facilities. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. It is a bipartisan piece of legislation. Ill yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i have no further speakers, and ill continue to reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you, mr. Speaker. I have no requests for time. I reserve the balance of my time at this time. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady reserves. The gentleman from texas. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i am prepared to close if the gentlelady would like to close. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady from texas. Ms. Johnson i rise in support ill close i and yield the time. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady yields back. The gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, h. R. 4378 is vital to ensuring americas leadership in nuclear innovation. By harnessing the unique expertise of our nations National Labs, the private sector can take the lead in developing groundbreaking advanced Nuclear Technology. I especially want to thank my colleagues on the Science Committee who have cosponsored h. R. 4378, including chairman lamar smith, representative dan lipinski, representative steve knight and representative Randy Hultgren. I want to thank the dozens of researchers and stakeholders who have provided feed b. C. A. As we develop this feedback as we develop this legislation. I urge adoption of this commonsense, Bipartisan Legislation, mr. Speaker. I yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back. The question is will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 4378. Hose in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 having responded in the affirmative, the rules are suspended, the bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. For what purpose does the gentleman from texas seek recognition . Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i move to suspend the rules and pass the bill h. R. 4376, the department of Energy Research infrastructure act, as amended. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the title. The clerk h. R. 4376, a bill to direct the secretary of energy to carry out certain upgrades to Research Equipment and the construction of a Research User facility, and for other purposes. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from texas, mr. Weber, and the gentlewoman from texas, ms. Johnson, each will control 20 minutes. The chair recognizes the gentleman from texas. Mr. Weber thank you, mr. Speaker. I ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on h. R. 4376, the bill now under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. The gentleman from texas is recognized. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Weber mr. Speaker, i rise in support of h. R. 4376, the department of Energy Research infrastructure act of 2018. H. R. 4376 will support the Research Infrastructure needed to conduct leading basic Energy Science and Nuclear Physics Research Initiatives here in the u. S. By authorizing upgrades and construction of major user facilities at department of energy, d. O. E. , National Labs and universities. The advanced light source, a. L. S. , is a specialized particle accelerator that generates bright beams of xray light for Scientific Research. The proposed upgrade to this facility will ensure that d. O. E. Can maintain a. L. S. s status as a worldclass xray facility and allows scientists to study the structure and behavioral materials at extremely small scales. The first free electron laser. At upgrade to this facility Stanford University will provide a major jump in imaging capability and will enable researchers to have groundbreaking experiments in chemistry, in materials, in biology and in energy. The facility for rare isotope beams at Michigan State university is one of a kind using facility that will allow researchers to study rare isotopes and their properties. This facility will support research that expands our understanding of atomic structures and could facilitate discoveries in medicines and even in physics. H. R. 4376 reaffirms the federal governments key role in basic science research. My home state of texas has long been a world leader in advanced science and technology. It is home to millions of entrepreneurs eager to take advantage of the best Research Facilities in the world. These user facility upgrades will give the private sector the tools they need to develop break through technologies in medicine, manufacturing, and energy. Investing in this Research Infrastructure will also help train the next generation of researchers in chemistry, physics, and material science. Here in congress, it is our responsibility to take the longterm view and be patient, making Smart Investments that can lead to the next big discovery. This bill funds the Research Infrastructure necessary to make those very discoveries possible. I want to thank chairman lamar smith, representative dan lipinski, energy vice chairman steve knight and representative Randy Hultgren for joining me as original cosponsors of this very important legislation. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill and, mr. Speaker, i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. S. Johnson mr. Speaker, i rise in support of h. R. 4376, the department of Energy Research infrastructure act of 2018, and i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady is recognized. Ms. Johnson the legislation includes authorizations of important upgrades to the World Class Department of energy user slac ies at the facility. They will advance materials for a wide range of applications. From advanced batteries to High Temperature superconductors to next generation pharmaceuticals. And it directs d. O. E. To build a new cutting edge facility that was competitively selected to be sited at Michigan State university. This facility will enable researchers to advance our fundamental understanding of the nature of rare nuclear isotopes. And with impacts and fields ranging from Nuclear Astrophysics to medicine, our laboratories are the crown jewels of american innovation, and the user driven science facilities at these labs and our universities are the foundation which our leadership in science is built. Im pleased to support this bipartisan effort to expand our Research Capabilities at d. O. E. And i hope we can continue to work together. I reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady from texas reserves. Mr. Weber i yield four minutes to the distinguished gentleman from texas, chairman smith and we are going to lose him and start the research to replace him. I yield to the gentleman. Mr. Smith i thank my colleague from texas, the Energy Subcommittee chairman for those nice comments for yielding me comments. The department of Energy Research infrastructure act is an important piece of legislation introduced by ongressman steve knight of california. It is a basic research in d. O. E. Labs and hosts researchers each year. To maintain the global leadership, we must ensure our user facilities are the best in the world. This bill is also cosponsored by representative lipinski and randy weber and randy hult grin and authorizes the budget to complete construction of three science infrastructure projects. The bill provides for upgrades to the advanced light source at Lawrence Berkley national lab and to the coherent light source at the National Accelerator lab at Stanford University. It directs the construction of state lity at michigan university. All together, the enhanced exabets made possible by this bill provides significant breakthroughs to maintain the hightech leadership. I thank the subcommittee chairman and the gentleman from california, mr. Knight, for their initiatives in managing this legislation and encourage my colleagues to support the bill and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore you continue to reserve. The gentlelady from texas reserves. Mr. Weber i yield two minutes to the gentleman from california, mr. Knight. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Knight i rise in support of h. R. 4376. This legislation authorizes important upgrades to Light Sources and support the research eeded to conduct leading research. This bill authorizes the unique facilities for researchers to study isotopes. And is the best facilities bring the best and brightest scientists. I thank chairman smith and Energy Subcommittee chairman weber and i yield back. Mr. Weber i continue to reserve and im prepared to close. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves. Ms. Johnson i rise in support and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from texas is recknizzed. Mr. Weber i yield myself such time as i may consume the speaker pro tempore the speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Weber this authorizes critical investments in research and infrastructure and will ensure the next big discoveries in physical sciences, manufacturing, medicine, energy. That can happen right here in these United States. I thank the sponsors of this bill and thank the researchers and stakeholders as we develop this legislation. I thank congressman knight. I urge the adoption of this. And i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. Will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 4376 as amended. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended, the bill is passed and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid pon the table. For what purpose does the gentleman from california seek recognition . I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill h. R. 3397. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the title of the bill. Clerk the speaker pro tempore the bill wish to call up the bill as amended. The clerk h. R. 3397 a bill to direct the National Science foundation to support Stem Education focused on Early Childhood. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from california, mr. Knight and the gentlewoman from texas, ms. Johnson. The chair recognizes. Mr. Knight i ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days to include extraneous material on the bill under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Knight i yield myself such time as i may consume. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to speak on an important policy to improve our Stem Education. This is a bipartisan bill and im proud to sponsor and sets in with work force improvement legislation, the Science Committee has recently address to our stem work force. This is always an opportunity for good. Expanding the reach of our Stem Education programs to children of all ages will improve more individuals with aptitude are engaged and are on their education path. Children are capable of absorbing stem concepts and any parent can tell you after kids learn to talk, the questions can be endless. Hey can be fostered into science, technology and math and Computer Science. This bill directs m. S. F. To allocate to focus on Early Childhood. Investing on children ensuring we are laying the groundwork to invest innovators. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation and i reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson thank you very much. I rise in support of h. R. 3397 the Building Blocks of stem act. I want to thank ms. Rosen for her leadership, drawing her experience, ms. Rosen has been a strong champion for creating opportunities for talented young girls and women interested in Computer Science. I commend her efforts on this critically important issue. The demand for Computer Science expertise is on the rise and all sectors of the economy. To ensure we have the capability and the capacity to meet that demand, we must do more to leverage all of our Human Capital to tackle the technological challenges of the future. Research shows us that girls as young as six years old are opting gentle gender stereotypes that discouragees them including Computer Science. This directs n. S. F. To support research into factors that contribute into these stereotypes and support in the design, development and implementation of scaleable models to prevent or reverse the effects of these negative and false stereotypes. I support this bill and i urge my colleagues to support this bill and i reserve. The speaker pro tempore the entlelady from texas reserves. Mr. Knight i yield four minutes to chairman smith. Mr. Smith i would like to thank the gentleman from california, the member from the Science Committee on this particular piece of legislation and i support h. R. 3397 the Building Blocks of Stem Education act introduced by representative rosen and cosponsored by representative knight. This will help people get interested. America lags behind many nations when it comes to stem. American students are ranked 19th in science and 31st in math out of 35 industrialized nations. The bottom half in both. This is not the educational record that a country wants to complete globally. We must encourage our youth so they can pursue these careers. More graduates with stem degrees means more advanced technologies and morrow bus economy. A well educated and stem work force promotes our future prosperity. They have the potential to save thousands of lives and jump start a new agency and discover new worlds. This directs the National Science foundation to more equitably for research and studies that focus on Early Childhood. This seeks to lay the groundwork to interest them in stem in their formative years. It directs the National Science foundation to develop models to increase Young Girls Foundation in Computer Science. Despite of representing the work force, women account for less than 25 of americas stem work force. In the last congress, my bill was signed into law. That Bipartisan Legislation expanded the federal definition of stem to include stem science. This continues the bipartisan commitment of the house Science Committee to promote Computer Science as a part of stem by computer adding to the robert noys sgs program. I thank representatives rosen and knight and the chairwoman mrs. Comstock, for her work to improve the underlying legislation by offering the supporting girls in Stem Education and Computer Science amendment. Including todays five research bills, 20 of the 22 bills, the science, space and Technology Bill has brought to the floor have been bipartisan pieces of legislation. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Knight i have no further speakers and i continue to reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson i yield to the gentlelady from nevada. Ms. Rosen i rise in support of my bill, h. R. 3397, the Building Blocks of stem act which includes my code like a girl act. I thank my republican colleagues, steve knight in coleading this important legislation and our Science Committee chairman for helping me move this bill through committee. Im proud to see my proposals come to the floor with wide bipartisan support. This is central to our countrys innovation, Economic Growth and employment. Across the country, we are seeing a huge demand in Software Developers and engineers and computer programmers. I built my career in stem. So i know all too well the tall is real. In my home state of nevada, tesla, switch and google are creating the jobs of the future. Even across all industries, 15 of the jobs in nevada require a high level of knowledge. Despite these increasing opportunities in stem careers, not enough americans possess the skills necessary to succeed. This disparity between scientific employment and employer demand it starts as far back as Elementary School. Children who engage in scientific activities, will they develop positive attitudes towards science. In fact, interviews with current graduate students found the majority reported their interest of science began before middle school. The bill before us today, the Building Blocks of stem act will ensure we are investing in our children by directing the National Science foundation to distribute funding across the age groups specifically, this bill woling direct funding to include Early Childhood education in the prek12 program which enhance the learning of stem and address the challenges addressing prek education. And this focuses on middle schools or older. Handson experiences as early as possible, it is important, my bill will ensure they engage our nations children younger, those under the age of 11. R. 3397 includes the text of another stem bill, the code like a girl act which i introduced with the support of my republican colleague. This is also cosponsored by research chairwoman barbara mstock and Eddie Bernice johnson. This legislation is for our girls. Girls like isabel, an eighth grader who likes stem and on a High School Robotic team. She proposed a new Monitoring Team to assess the fires issue at yellowstone and this past i received a letter and offered an idea how to increase improve solar energy. And i had the opportunity to meet her and her family in person. I thanked her for her advocacy and only move forward by inspiring young minds to create and innovate and imagine the future. She is one of the young girls we are fighting for today. And young girls are more capable in succeeding in stem and grow up to be the grace harper or katherine johnson. This bill will help bridge that divide. These young talented minds could be working on our nations most challenging oblems by inventing the next breakthrough technology, improving access to health care with computing, even keeping our nation safe from cyberattacks. The code like a girl act would create two n. S. F. Programs to encourage young girls to pursue Computer Science. As we all know, the gender gap in the stem work force is widening. Women only hold about 26 of stem jobs, even though they make up more than half the u. S. Work force. This gender disparity extends down through all levels of education. In 2015, approximately 23 of a. P. Computer science exam takers were girls, and gender stereotypes begin at an early age. Studies have shown around 6 years old girls develop the belief that brilliance is a male characteristic. And this negative stereotype is shown to have an immediate effect as girls start to lose their interest in activities they per receive is requiring brilliance perceive is requiring brilliance. Another study found young children, both boys and girls, already believe boys are better than girls at robotics and programming. Its unclear where precisely where this stereotype originates from but this can negative impact to enroll in these subjects. The code like a girl act addresses n. S. F. Grants to increase understanding of the factors that contribute to the participation of young girls 10 and younger in stem and Computer Science activities. This bill also creates a Grant Program to develop and evaluate interventions in prek and Elementary School prek and Elementary School classrooms with the goal of increasing participation of girls in stem. These may include teacher training and professional development. Classroom practices and providing mentors for girls to support their Computer Science aspirations. We know young girls that are interested in science, math and computing girls are interested in science, math and computer but we need to make sure they stay engaged. We know knowledge of Computer Science and use of technology is becoming increasingly essential for all individuals, not just those planning to work in the technology sector. Stem education cultivates students curiosity, their creativity. It teaches them to work as a team and fosters Critical Thinking skills that are fundamental for success in any field. Mr. Speaker, this legislation will help invest in our students. It will help them rise to meet the challenges of a changing economy that increasingly relies on highly Skilled Labor and technology. Im proud to stand for our students before this chamber because together were making Smart Investments that will help our children succeed. Smart investments so that we can help our communities build more Effective Work pourses and a stronger competitive economy. For these reasons i am proud that my Building Blocks of stem act, including the text of my code like a girl act, is being considered today. With the passage of these bills we are one step closer to bridging the current gaps in Stem Education and work force training. Building the blocks for careers in stem will prepare nevadans and all americans for better jobs and help us meet the demands of our 21st century economy. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and i yield back the balance of my time. Thank you. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady yields back. The gentlelady from texas is recognized. Ms. Johnson i support the bill and yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentlelady yields back. The gentleman from california is recognized. Mr. Speaker, i have no further requests for time and i am prepared to close. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Speaker, invest and encourage Early Education are fields that are here now and even more in the future. I want to thank ms. Rosen for her leadership in this role. Mr. Knight it is absolutely something that is bipartisan. It is something that congress is behind. N tell you in a personal just note Lancaster High School came out with their Robotics Team a decade ago 100 boys. Just a short period after that, about four, five years, they were 50 girls, 50 boys and they were winning awards all over the country. That was because we had Great Teachers there that pushed and made sure that girls knew that they could be on the Robotics Team and pulled them in. That is exactly what were talking about investing and encouraging. I urge passage of this good bill. This is bipartisan. And i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back. The question is will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 3397, as amended. Hose in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the chair, 2 3 having responded in the affirmative, the rules are suspended, the bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. For what purpose does the gentleman from washington seek recognition . Mr. Reichert mr. Speaker, i move the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 4979, as amended. A bill to exhe tend the generallyized system of generalized system of preferences and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provision of the program. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will report the title of the bill. To clerk h. R. 4979, a bill extend the generalized system of preferences and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provision of the program. The speaker pro tempore pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from washington, mr. Reichert, and the gentleman from new jersey, mr. Pascrell, each will control 20 minutes. The chair now recognizes the gentleman from washington. Mr. Reichert thank you, mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, i ask unanimous consent that all members may have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on h. R. 4979, currently under consideration. The speaker pro tempore without objection. Mr. Reichert mr. Speaker, i yield myself such time as i may consume. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman is recognized. Mr. Reichert i am pleased to speak today in support of h. R. 4979, a bill to extend the generalized system of preferences and to make technical changes to the competitive need limitations provision of the program. This bipartisan bill helps keep u. S. Companies globally competitive by eliminating tariffs on certain imports from developing countries in a manner that does not hurt u. S. Producers. G. S. P. s saved u. S. Companies more than 865 million in import duties in 2017, providing benefits to thousands of companies and their employees as well as their customers. G. S. P. Also provides an important enforcement tool to require all 121 beneficiary developing countries to continue to make progress on eligibility, criteria set by congress. These include Critical Issues like intellectual property protection, Market Access for u. S. Exporters, and elimination of the worst forms of child labor. In my home state of washington, g. S. P. s saved companies about 11 million in import duties in 17, and thats up 30 from 2016. As just one example, t. R. International, small but quickly growing veteranowned chemical distributor in seattle, relies on g. S. P. To obtain certain chemical Raw Materials at globally competitive prices. Our last renewal of g. S. P. In 2015 allowed t. R. I. To hire more employees and invest in more equipment. Many of t. R. I. s customers are u. S. Manufacturers, and t. R. I. s use of g. S. P. To obtain Raw Materials at lower prices also make these manufacturers more competitive. For t. R. I. And for other Washington Companies like rain city music, that use of the g. S. P. Program, their employees and american consumers, g. S. P. Provides significant benefits. Of course, i urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this bill, and i am pleased to be working with my good friend, bill pascrell, who joins us here tonight, and i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves. The gentleman from new jersey is recognized. Mr. Pascrell thank you, mr. Speaker. I yield myself such time as i happy to e and i am stand here with my chairman. With my chairman, mr. Reichert from the great state of washington. This is a bipartisan bill. The generalized system of preferences expired december 31, 2017. I rise today to urge my colleagues to support the legislation that would renew a very nsider important program. This is a long standing trade program, mr. Speaker, that has enjoyed broad bipartisan support since 1974. Since the g. S. P. Already expired, its imperative we extend the program now. While this bill makes slight technical corrections, no real substantial tiff changes were made to the substantial changes were made to the program. I would have liked to have had before this debate had the time that were debating right now than let the program expire but unfortunately i am not in control of the calendar. I am pleased, however, we agreed to work to renew this program in its current form in a bipartisan, bicameral basis. As i said, it was established, this trade act, in 1974. The g. S. P. Promotes Economic Development by eliminating duties on the thousands of products when imported from one of approximately 120 designated beneficiary countries and territories. This program not only supports american competitiveness and economic opportunity, but also encourages developing countries in the program to adopt high labor standards, intellectual property rights, and the rule of law. So as part of the current program, the committee known as the g. S. P. Subcommittee on the trade policy staff committee, conducts an annual review of the articles, an annual review of all the countries that are involved that are eligible for dutyfree treatment under this program. This committee is chaired by the United States trade rep and comprised of representatives of other executive branch agencies. The law requires that the president take into account several factors when designating a country as eligible for g. S. P. These factors include whether a country has taken or is taking steps to afford workers internationally recognized workers rights. Thats what the law says. And the extent to which a country is providing adequate and effective protection of intellectual property rights. Last year the administration began a review of bolivias compliance, as an example, with the labor Eligibility Criteria due to concerns regarding the use of child labor and other labor abuses in bolivia. The legislation we are considering today includes a new reporting requirement that will improve the effectiveness of congressional oversight of the administrations enforcement of these Eligibility Criteria and the progress made under effective investigations. Article 1, section 8 is very clear of what the legislators in this house have as a responsibility. So its my hope that congress can further strengthen the Enforcement Mechanisms of the g. S. P. In the future. The program also boosts the competitiveness of the United States companies and workers by reducing the cost of imports used to manufacture goods in the United States. In 2016, products valued at 18. 9 billion entered the United States dutyfree under the program. All and Mediumsized Enterprises have borne the price of products imported. Consider a company in my district. Its a familyowned business from my district that uses the g. S. P. Goods to support their Industrial Packaging business. When they last expired, it was forced to raise prices to compensate for the new import taxes. This was no small increase. The Company Estimates it paid 1. 5 million in new tariffs during the programs lapse. Benefits so vide small and Mediumsized Companies can take full advantage of the benefits of the g. S. P. And boost. Heir under the current process, the competitive need limitation provision within the law imposes ceilings on g. S. P. Benefits for each product and each beneficiary country. The statute provides that a beneficiary developing country loses eligibility with respect to a product if the competitive need limitations are exceeded and then no waiver is granted. I look forward to considering this legislation with the successful passage of g. S. P. And issue a joint bipartisan statement and continue working together to show the strong support for this program. With this, mr. Speaker, i reserve the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentleman from washington is recognized. Mr. Reichert i yield as much time to the chairman of the ways and Means Committee, the gentleman from texas, mr. Brady. Mr. Brady i rise today in support of this bipartisan bill o renew the general ralized of Preferences Program for three years and i thank congressman reichert for his leadership and the good work that mr. Pascrell has done as well. This program is incredibly important for the competitiveness of our local businesses and our local workers and helps our families and communities by reducing tariffs, which are taxes on products that many of us use every day. We secure taxfree access to thousands of products from around the world. Last year, this saved american businesses more than 865 million. In texas alone, our job creators saved 76 million. This is money that our businesses can use to hire more workers to expand and innovate. And what does it mean for families . Think about that single mom in the Grocery Store to stretch every dollar to the max. More r, g. S. P. Makes it affordable and sabes money and provides her with real peace of mind and g. S. P. Delivers these benefits that doesnt hurt American Workers or businesses. I thank all the members who worked on this important progrowth, profamily growth and congressman neal, our Ranking Member, congressman reichert and pascrell and commam congresswoman walorski. Lets pass this bill and pass certainty to deliver the tax reeffleff that american deserves. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from washington. Mr. Reichert i reserve. The speaker pro tempore mr. Reichert i will yield two minutes to miswalorski one of the distinguished members of the ways and Means Committee. I rise in strong support of h. R. 4979 which extends the program through 2020. G. S. P. Helps manufacturers big and small cut costs and lowers prices. Companies save in import duties in 2017. I thank the chairman for including my bipartisan bill, h. R. 4068 which i introduced ith my friends, ms. Titus of nevada. My bill makes fixes to the competitive need limitation process. N. L. s are exemptions on products for g. S. P. Eligibility. They can be granted for a number of reasons, National Security, or low import levels. Manufacturers in Mill District reached out to my office when they were denied a s. N. L. Because of a government spreadsheet that stated there was a product that was competitive, they were denied. There was no information beyond that. Just that date and that spreadsheet. The manufacturers had sworn affidavits from producers in the industry saying it was nothing like to this wood in the u. S. But didnt matter. This date forces manufacturers to may millions in unnecessary duties. And it hurts domestic producers that have brought jobs back to the u. S. Because the date is all hat matters in a cnl information. My bill is reflecting better and the date that the date ea is to provide more certainty. We are reauthorizing g. S. P. And ensure the way it is working the way congress intended and i yield back. Mr. Reichert i reserve. Mr. Pascrell i reserve. Mr. Reichert i yield two inutes to mr. Curbelo. Mr. Curbelo thank you for i dont remember four important work on this legislation. Im proud to be a cosponsor to provide a threeyear renewal. The g. S. P. Program provides access to the u. S. Market for selected goods from 121 developing countries. I have been an advocate of policies and consumers to acquire products at their choice at the best possible choice. It gives our businesses and consumers by promoting Economic Growth in developing countries while creating jobs at home. 2017, u. S. Importers enjoyed 165 million on import dues under the g. S. P. Program. . 2ome state of florida had million and total savings of 59 million on import duty. Mr. Speaker, that is about a 0 increase in savings from 2016. I want to share the story of mr. Bruce price who would benefit from renewing the program. He recently told my office he expects savings in the range of 25 to 45,000 a year. For mr. Price, those savings go a long way and make a major difference. I commend the work of the ways and Means Committee has done for free and free trade partnerships and i urge my colleagues to vote in favor to help mr. Price and other Small Business owners hire more workers all across our country. Thank you and i yield back. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from washington. Mr. Reichert i reserve. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman from new jersey. Im ready to close. Mr. Reichert i have one more speaker. I yield two minutes to mr. Norman, the gentleman from South Carolina who has been a leader on this issue. Mr. Norman i want to thank chairman reichert for his work on this. As chairman brady said. This is very important. I have a lot of manufacturers in my district who really cant get parts in this country and they depend on from other countries and vital they remain competitive and i thank you for your work. I rise today to support the reauthorization of the gernlized of Preferences Program or g. S. P. In 2016, job creators and producers saved 16 million on 422 million worth of import. In 2017, producers in my state saved 17 million on g. S. P. Imports. These savings translate directly of how much companies can reinvest in their businesses. G. S. P. Provides the executive branch with strategies to make sure the United States is not being taken advantage of in trade deals. President kennedy once said, a rising tide lifts all boats. We can support american prosperity while helping lift others out of poverty. I urge support of this bill and i yield back. Mr. Reichert im prepared to close if my good friend from new jersey is ready. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman reserves the balance of his time. The gentleman from new jersey is recognized. Mr. Pascrell we had expiration times in the last five or six years but we always come together we just passed the last week ar bill and thats a good sign and working together to protect not the protectionist but protect American Industries and this is a very, very important move. I think also that extending it to 2020 is a great idea. I think this is very important. And wont be back here next year. We have a little foresight. I thank mr. Reichert for bringing this to the floor. We worked hard to get this here and i yield back my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. The gentleman from washington is recognized. Mr. Reichert i thank my friend from new jersey. We have worked on a lot of issues over the past almost 14 years now and i do agree with him. There are a few moments where we have a chance to sort of have a on g. S. P. Ight g. S. P. , people say what is that. Its a complicated issue. But the bottom line is, this is good for businesses, creates jobs, i coupled with think we can look forward to a bright, Bright Future here in the United States for our working men and women and our families. So our last renewal of g. S. P. In 2015 allowed t. R. I. To hire more employees and we are looking to more jobs being created and t. R. I. Will be pleased that this will be voted on tonight. Its clear that h. R. 4979 has strong buy support. And for good reason. Renewing g. S. P. Will benefit companies, u. S. Workers and consumers. This has real costs in my home state as i mentioned and throughout the country. I urge my colleagues in supporting this bill and i yield back the balance of my time. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman yields back the balance of his time. Will the house suspend the rules and pass h. R. 4979 as amended. Those in favor say aye. Those opposed, no. Mr. Reichert i ask for a recorded vote. The speaker pro tempore in the opinion of the chair, the ayes have it. 2 3 being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended and the bill is passed. Mr. Reichert i ask for a recorded vote. The speaker pro tempore the gentleman ask for the yeas and nays snr mr. Reichert i do. The speaker pro tempore all those in favor of taking this vote will rise. A sufficient number having arisen, the the yeas and nays are ordered, pursuant to clause 8, rule 20, further proceedings on this question will be postponed. The chair lays before the house the following enrolled bill. The clerk senate 9. An act to amend the Communications Act to ensure the integrity of Voice Communications and to prevent unjust or unreasonable discrimination among areas of the United States in the delivery of such communications. The speaker pro tempore the chair lays before the house the following communication. The clerk the honorable the speaker, house of representatives. Sir, pursuant to the permission granted in clause 2h of rule 2 of the ruse of the u. S. House of representatives, i have the honor to transmit a sealed envelope received from the white house on february 12, 2018, at 3 28 p. M. , and said to contain message from the president on his framework for rebuilding infrastructure in america. Signed, sincerely, karen l. Haas. The speaker pro tempore the clerk will read the message. The clerk to the congress of the United States. I have enclosed with this message my administrations framework for rebuilding infrastructure in america. Our nations infrastructure is in an unacceptable state of disrepair, which damages our countrys competitiveness and our citizens quality of life. For too long lawmakers vin vested in infrastructure have invested in infrastructure inefficiently, ignored critical needs and allowed it to deteriorate. As a result, the United States has fallen further and further behind other countries. It is time to give americans the working modern infrastructure they deserve. To help build a Better Future for all americans. Ied is the congress to act soon i ask the congress to act soon on an infrastructure bill that will help stimulate at least 1. 5 trillion in new investment over the next 10 years, shorten the process for approving projects to two years or less, address unmet Rural Infrastructure needs, and to empower state and local authorities and train the American Work force of the future. To develop the infrastructure framework, i am transmitting today, my administration engaged with governors, mayors, federal agencies, state and local agencies, members of congress, industry and most importantly the American People who depend upon upgraded infrastructure. The product of these efforts is a road map for the congress to draft and pass the most comprehensive infrastructure bill in our nations history. My administrations plan addresses more than traditional infrastructure. Like roads, bridges and airports. But addresses other needs like drinking and waste water systems, waterways, water resources, energy, Rural Infrastructure, public lands, veterans hospitals, and brownfield and superfund sites. The reforms set forth in my plan will strengthen the economy, make our country more competitive, reduce the cost of goods and services for american families, and enable americans to build their lives on top of the best infrastructure in the world. My administration is committed to working with the congress to enact a law that will enable americas builders to construct new, modern and efficient infrastructure throughout our beautiful land. Signed, donald j. Trump. The president. February 12, 2018. The speaker pro tempore referred to the committees on agriculture, education and work force, energy and commerce, the judiciary, natural resources, oversight and government reform, transportation and infrastructure, Veterans Affairs, and ways and means. And ordered printed. Pursuant to clause 12a of rule 1, the chair declares the house in recess until approximately related to mortgage lending and market trading and another bill on consumer Interest Rates and loan transfers. Flole the house live here on cspan when members return at 6 30 eastern. Tonight, testimony from c. I. A. Director mike pompeo on global terror threats. Hes ginned by National Intelligence direct yordan koets and National Security Agency Director mike rogers. They spoke earlier today in front of the Senate Intelligence committee and you can see it tonight at 10 00 p. M. Eastern on span. Cspan, where history unfolds daily. In 1979, cspan was created as a Public Service by americas Cable Television companies. Today, we continue to bring you unfiltered coverage of congress, the white house the supreme court, and Public Policy events in washington, d. C. And around the country. Cspan is brought to you by your cable or satellite provider. Tomorrow, testimony from treasury secretary Steven Mnuchin on president trumps 2019 budget request. Hell speak before the Senate Finance committee. That starts live wednesday at 10 30 a. M. Eastern on cspan 3. On thursday, more about the budget with Veterans Affairs secretary david schul