Lou Barletta

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter).

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Walberg).

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the remainder of my time. In closing, I reiterate the purpose and the importance of this legislation. No government, Federal or State, should be allowed to skirt its responsibilities on the taxpayers' dime, especially when those responsibilities involve the health and safety of children. We have seen what can happen when they do, and none of us should be okay with allowing those kinds of consequences to continue. Making sure they don't is a responsibility that we all share. In the end, this bill is not about pointing fingers or about placing blame. It is about the kids who need help, not only the infants who are affected by the opioid crisis, but all of the victims of child abuse and neglect. This bill is about ensuring that we work together to strengthen the protections for our country's most vulnerable children and their families. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to help recognize Southwestern Energy (SWN) for receiving the Employers Excellence Award for Energy Efficiencies and Environmental Improvements from the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association. This prestigious award is meant to honor businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania that have shown a commitment to providing energy-efficient solutions and environmental conservation. By continuing to harness domestic energy sources in the most efficient manner possible, while also preserving the environment for future generations to enjoy, SWN has provided my constituents with a superior quality of life that permeates all aspects of the community. With over 80 years of experience in identifying and extracting domestic natural gas sources, SWN has helped lead the effort toward energy independence. This leadership and success continues to be dependent upon the dedication to their employees and to the communities in which they operate. Northeastern Pennsylvania has benefited tremendously from Southwestern Energy's commitment to environmentally conscious means of extracting our state's natural resources. I had the opportunity to meet with community leaders at the Tunkhannock, PA facility to witness firsthand the regional investment and economic impact of Southwestern Energy's projects in my district. Launching their Energy Conserving Water (ECH2O) program in 2012, SWN pledged that for each gallon of fresh water used in their operations, they would replenish or offset an equivalent amount through conservation and innovation. In 2015, Southwestern Energy made significant progress toward their goal of achieving water neutrality in Pennsylvania. With the completion of the Fall Brook Acid Mine Drainage Treatment and Restoration Project, SWN has improved the water quality in the Susquehanna River throughout my district. Mr. Speaker, Southwestern Energy's contributions to energy security and natural resource conservation in my district and state have been profound. Upon receiving the Employers Excellence Award for Energy Efficiencies and Environmental Improvements from the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association, Southwestern Energy has affirmed their place among leaders in our communities. I look forward to witnessing the continued involvement of SWN in my district and state, and am confident that their contributions to my constituents will have a lasting impact.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help recognize MI Windows and Doors, LLC (MIWD) upon receiving the Manufacturers Excellence Award for Community Involvement from the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association. This prestigious award is intended to highlight the charitable commitment of companies in northeastern Pennsylvania that exemplify the balance between private enterprise and public engagement. Backed by exemplary customer service and product quality, MI Windows and Doors is one of the nation's largest suppliers of vinyl and aluminum windows and doors. MIWD should be proud of their outreach efforts, and by taking personal responsibility in the communities where they manufacture, it's only natural that such success would follow. Through their company-connected non-profit, The MIWD Charitable Foundation, MIWD has been committed to donating both time and funding to numerous local organizations, emergency response teams, and families in need. Building personal connections with members of the community has consistently been a hallmark of MIWD's outreach efforts. This past fall, MIWD hosted a Friends and Family Day at their Gratz, PA facility in which members of the community were able to spend time within the facility to gain a better understanding of the daily operations and company as a whole. Their support for our nation's veterans has been unwavering as well. By providing in-kind donations of windows for the mortgage-free homes built by Homes for our Troops, MIWD has helped provide severely-wounded, post 9/11 veterans and their families with safe and reliable shelter. Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor to recognize MI Windows and Doors, LLC as the recipient of the Manufacturers Excellence Award for Community Involvement from the Northeast Pennsylvania Manufacturers and Employers Association. With such pronounced principles and a dedication to community development that permeates all aspects of life in northeastern Pennsylvania, MIWD has come to embody the rewards that come from compassionate investments. I wish MI Windows and Doors, LLC all the best in their future endeavors, and am confident that they will continue to exemplify the positive relationship between a business and its community.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC) upon the occasion of its 50th Anniversary. By offering regional planning advice, technical consulting, and financial assistance, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission has worked to empower communities through long-term livability and vitality. TCRPC has exemplified an unwavering commitment to resolving regional issues facing my constituents in 103 municipalities of Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties. Founded in 1966 as a forum for information sharing, consensus building, and coordination among communities in central Pennsylvania, TCRPC has worked tirelessly to advance quality of life issues across the region. They continue to promote the area's long-term sustainability through resource protection and the adaption of existing infrastructure to meet today's most pressing economic and social issues. TCRPC's Regional Growth Management Plan stimulates community development and revitalization by supporting programs that integrate transportation, land use, and economic development efforts as well as environmental practices that protect air, land, and water resources. The Regional Growth Management Plan has contributed to lower energy costs for individual households, increased energy efficiencies, fostered greater availability of transportation options, opened more parks and community spaces, improved individual health, and heightened access to local food supplies. Mr. Speaker, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission has remained committed to the vision that central Pennsylvania is stronger when we work together. After five decades of committed service, Pennsylvanians in my district and beyond owe a debt of gratitude for the selfless work provided by TCRPC. I wish to congratulate TCRPC on 50 years of meaningful community engagement, and look forward to witnessing firsthand the continued service provided by such a strategic and charitable organization.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, on April 26, 2016, I was unable to be present for votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 164, passage of H.R. 4820, the Combating Terrorist Recruitment Act of 2016, and ``yes'' on roll call no. 165, passage of H.R. 4096, the Investor Clarity and Bank Parity Act.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, It is my honor to recognize Mrs. Karen Hoover on the occasion of her departure as 2015-2016 Department President for the VFW Auxiliary Department of Pennsylvania. Spanning 31 years, Karen's countless contributions in my district and state reflect her dignity, honor, and dedication to improving her community and the lives of all Veterans of Foreign Wars. Karen joined the VFW Auxiliary in 1985, under the eligibility of her father, who served in the Army during WWII, and subsequently became a life member in 1999. She was elected the Auxiliary President in 1988 and served a total of eight terms. Since 2000, Karen has served as a Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President, Secretary, and in her current role as Treasurer. Auxiliary chairmanship positions she has occupied include Americanism, Membership, Cancer, and Safety. Karen has also acted as the District 18 Chief of Staff, Color Bearer, Extensions Chairman, and Treasurer for the Voice of Democracy program. Beyond her formal positions in the VFW, Karen has always understood the value of community engagement. She is a member of Saint Paul's Lutheran Church, the American Legion, Women of the Moose, Relay for Life Team, United Way Fundraising, and Valley Lanes Bowling League. Karen is a lifetime member of the National Home for Veterans Children and was a life member of the Scotland School for Veterans' Children until its closure in 2009. Additionally, Karen is a dedicated supporter of the Halifax Cat Rescue Association. Whether volunteering at the food stand during the Shippensburg Community Fair or spending valuable time with her family, Karen embodies the values and principles that are essential to the functioning of a productive community. Her departure will be accompanied by quality time with her daughter Nicole, who is also an active member of the Auxiliary, her two stepsons, and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Mrs. Karen Hoover for her tireless dedication and excellence serving as 2015-2016 Department President for the VFW Auxiliary Department of Pennsylvania. Karen's career achievements have produced profound effects in our community and her example of selfless leadership will continue to inspire the next generation of Veterans advocates. It is with gratitude and appreciation that I recognize Mrs. Hoover on the occasion of her departure and wish her all the best in her next endeavor.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the establishment of the Hazleton Lodge Number 200, Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks. With its humble roots in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, the order was founded in 1891 and has continued to reflect the founding principles of charity, justice, and brotherhood. The Elks work to empower the communities around them through programs that help children grow up healthy and drug-free, institute projects that address local needs, and honor the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans. Having been formally inducted into the club during my time as the mayor of Hazleton, I can attest first hand to the humanitarian and philanthropic services provided by the Elks. With help from members of Philadelphia Lodge Number 2, Hazleton Lodge Number 200 was formally instituted in 1891 with the initiation of 26 members. Occupying several locations over the course of its history, Hazleton Lodge Number 200 settled into its current home in 1956. With such a vast network spanning across diverse communities, the Elks have exemplified an unwavering commitment to Pennsylvania as they continue to expand their membership and community services. Deeply rooted in principle and character, Hazleton Lodge Number 200 embodies the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A.'s motto, ``Elks care and Elks share.'' Through 125 years of service to the Hazleton community, the Elks have encountered over a century's worth of diverse issues and unmet needs. Whether it was through youth programs, educational scholarships, aid to disabled children, food for the less fortunate, or due acknowledgement for our veterans, the Elks have raised the standard of living for all Pennsylvanians. The veterans committee hosts VA picnics and donates Christmas gifts to the veterans in the local nursing homes through the Veterans Christmas Giving Tree. The Flag Day Program salutes the flag, Boy Scouts, and veterans, with the ultimate goal of recognizing those that have sacrificed so much in the past, and to inspire the next generation of valiant leaders. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize Hazleton Lodge Number 200, Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks as it celebrates its 125th anniversary. On behalf of a grateful community, I wish to thank the Elks Lodge and its members for their tireless service to the community and unwavering commitment to our nation's veterans.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize the Rotary Club of Colonial Park in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania upon the celebration of its 65th Anniversary. My district has benefited tremendously from the humanitarian service of the club and continued community involvement of its members. Representing Rotary International's motto, ``Service Above Self,'' the Colonial Park chapter contributes in the community, inspires in the workplace, and engages throughout the world. Members of the Rotary Club represent the community's professionals, and they continue to promote high ethical standards in all vocations. The men and women of the club are nonpolitical, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds--making their initiatives diverse and effective in elevating the community. Through its fundraising efforts and the generosity of its members, the Rotary Club of Colonial Park contributes over $17,000 per year to community organizations, such as hospitals, fire companies, senior centers, and youth clubs. The Rotary Club created a foundation to help meet the educational, charitable, and benevolent needs of organizations in their local area, as well as in areas recently affected by disasters. Understanding the important role that education plays in fostering a prosperous future, both the Rotary Club and Foundation have contributed over $100,000 to scholarships for students attending Harrisburg Area Community College. Members have also served their community through the building and upkeep of Possibility Place Playground, installation of a beautiful clock in the town of St. Thomas to commemorate its 250th anniversary, and support of Shalom House in downtown Harrisburg. Cumulatively, these endeavors highlight the commitment to community building and fulfillment of duty that members of the club selflessly embody. Mr. Speaker, the Rotary Club of Colonial Park is guided by core principles that resonate with each and every member. Their commitment to the community at large will continue to have profound effects in empowering those in need and enabling positive change. It is my honor to help celebrate the 65th Anniversary of the Rotary Club of Colonial Park, and I wish all members the best in their future proceedings.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Tri County Community Action (TCCA) upon the occasion of its 50th Anniversary. The organization's decades of committed service have brought awareness to the issue of poverty and helped lessen its impact in Pennsylvania. Helping families to identify and achieve economic self-sufficiency has enabled TCCA to increase the standards of living for my constituents in Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry counties. Founded in 1966 as a private, nonprofit, anti-poverty planning agency, TCCA has transformed into a dynamic organization with the mission of ``creating and maximizing the resources necessary for individuals and families to achieve self-sufficiency throughout a multi-county region.'' Over the course of the last 50 years, TCCA has evolved into a network of programs offering specialized assistance to at-risk youth, low income families, and poverty-stricken neighborhoods. Some of their services include providing credit counseling for families that are struggling financially, arranging self-sufficiency guidance, engaging with youth mentor programs, and leading neighborhood revitalization efforts. The organization strives to help those stricken by poverty and financial instability on an individual and family basis, with personalized action plans for socioeconomic advancement. The lives of many in my district have been greatly improved by the work of TCCA since its inception 50 years ago. In 2014 alone, TCCA served 12,997 families representing 38,629 individuals across three counties. They have brought to light the root causes of poverty that otherwise may not have been exposed, and subsequently worked to empower members of our community to create better lives for themselves. Through strategic identification, TCCA works to empower existing community programs that can act as vessels for combating poverty and its consequences. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent a district that is home to such an impactful, successful, and benevolent organization. I commend Tri County Community Action for its accomplishments in improving the lives of my constituents, family by family, and I wish them all of the best in their continued efforts. No one chooses to live in poverty, and the pathway out can be painfully difficult, but the good work of organizations like theirs help families grow and see possibility, where before there was only despair.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Dr. Seong-Hwan Kim on the occasion of his retirement from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture after 43 years of dedicated service. Dr. Kim's countless contributions to preserving and fortifying the agriculture, landscape, and environment in my district and state have enabled all Pennsylvanians to enjoy a pristine natural landscape and reliable food supply for years to come. His selfless donation of time to students in my district has fostered excitement in education and laid the foundation for the next generation of scientific breakthroughs. Dr. Kim has dedicated his life's work to botany and plant pathology, having started as a research assistant in 1965 performing fungicide evaluation at the University of Delaware. Since then, he has gone on to become an adjunct professor at The Pennsylvania State University where he works in the Department of Plant Pathology helping mold the next generation of great scientists. Dr. Kim's profound effects on the plant biology community have not gone without recognition. As a member of the American Phytopathological Society since 1965, he has received the Distinguished Service Award and held numerous advisory and chairmanship positions within the organization. Beyond his formal positions in academia, Dr. Kim has always understood the value of community engagement. High school, undergraduate, and post-graduate students in Dauphin County have all benefited from his selfless role as a mentor and advisor in various fields of study. He has also served as an interpreter for hospitals, emergency responders, and international professional exchange programs over the years in my district and beyond. Whether volunteering in his local congregation or spending valuable time with his family, Dr. Kim's values and principles permeate all aspects of his life. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Dr. Seong-Hwan Kim for his tireless dedication and scientific excellence with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Dr. Kim's career achievements have helped shaped regulatory plant pathology into a science-based discipline that forged the foundations of nationally and internationally recognized programs. It is with gratitude and appreciation that I recognize Dr. Kim on the occasion of his retirement and wish him all the best in his next endeavor.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mrs. Karen Hoover on the occasion of her retirement from the District 18 VFW Ladies Auxiliary after 31 years of selfless service. Karen's countless contributions in my district and state reflect her dignity, honor, and dedication to improving her community and the lives of all Veterans of Foreign Wars. Karen joined the VFW Ladies Auxiliary in 1985, under the eligibility of her father, who served in the Army during WWII, and subsequently became a life member in 1999. She was elected the Auxiliary President in 1988 and served a total of eight terms. Since 2000, Karen has served as a Senior Vice President, Junior Vice President, Secretary, and in her current role as Treasurer. Auxiliary chairmanship positions she has occupied include Americanism, Membership, Cancer, and Safety. Karen has also acted as the District 18 Chief of Staff, Color Bearer, Extensions Chairman, and Treasurer for the Voice of Democracy program. Beyond her formal positions in the VFW, Karen has always understood the value of community engagement. She is a member of Saint Paul's Lutheran Church, the American Legion, Women of the Moose, Relay for Life Team, United Way Fundraising, and Valley Lanes Bowling League. Karen is a lifetime member of the National Home for Veterans Children and was a life member of the Scotland School for Veterans' Children until its closure in 2009. Additionally, Karen is a dedicated supporter of the Halifax Cat Rescue Association. Whether volunteering at the food stand during the Shippensburg Community Fair or spending valuable time with her family, Karen embodies the values and principles that are essential to the functioning of a productive community. Her retirement will be accompanied by quality time with her daughter Nicole, who is also an active member of the Auxiliary, her two stepsons, and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Mrs. Karen Hoover for her tireless dedication and excellence with the Millersburg VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Karen's career achievements have produced profound effects in our community and her example of selfless leadership will continue to inspire the next generation of Veterans' advocates. It is with gratitude and appreciation that I recognize Mrs. Hoover on the occasion of her retirement and wish her all the best in her next endeavor.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure be discharged from further consideration of House Concurrent Resolution 120, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure be discharged from further consideration of House Concurrent Resolution 117, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of legislation that's important to my part of Pennsylvania, and to all of the coal-producing regions of this country. The SENSE Act, offered by my colleague from western Pennsylvania, Mr. Rothfus. This bill is a long time coming. In my part of the country, we are familiar with ``coal refuse''--a mixture of low-quality coal, rock, and dirt, which is left behind after mining. This coal refuse has a much lower energy content, and for years it could not be processed efficiently or economically. As a result, piles of it were left behind, which led to a variety of detrimental results: loss of vegetation and wildlife, and concentrated levels of acid drainage into local streams and ponds. But the technology has advanced, and we can now reclaim that waste-- the private sector can use the coal waste product to burn and generate electricity. What's left over after that can be used to restore the natural landscape, or refill abandoned mines. But, once again, the Environmental Protection Agency couldn't stand this type of progress. They came up with the MATS Rule--the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards rule. This sets certain unattainable levels for the industry. The SENSE Act provides relief from these unrealistic limits. It seeks to establish an alternative compliance standard for coal refuse facilities based upon the removal and control of Sulfur Dioxide. Now, in some parts of the country, and in some speeches on the campaign trail, it has become fashionable to attack the coal industry, and make its people out to be the bad guys. As a candidate, our current president promised to bankrupt the coal industry. And he has made a tremendous effort to do just that--including this MATS Rule from his EPA. Just in the last few days, the frontrunner on the Democratic side promised that as president, she would put coal mines and coal miners out of work. Now, all of that might sound pretty good in certain focus groups, or around the cocktail party circuit, but let me tell you . . . where I come from, it sounds pretty devastating. The coal industry--in no small part--helped build this country and make it a world leader. It generates cheap electricity for millions of people. And for many tens of thousands of people back home in Pennsylvania, it still provides a good living, and it puts food on the table. This bill makes sense--common sense. It provides a use for coal refuse, generates electricity, and protects jobs. And it will allow us to reclaim land previously mined, which means it has a positive impact on the environment. And when that land is reclaimed, it can again be put to use, and placed back on the tax rolls, making it good for local government. I urge support for the SENSE Act.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, February 26, I was unable to be present for recorded votes. Had I been present, I would have voted the following on amendments to H.R. 2406, the SHARE Act: ``no'' on roll call no. 92, the Beyer amendment no. 2; ``no'' on roll call no. 93, the Jackson Lee amendment; ``no'' on roll call no. 94, the Beyer amendment no. 8; ``yes'' on roll call no. 95, the Smith amendment; ``yes'' on roll call no. 96, the Griffith amendment; ``yes'' on roll call no. 97, the Ribble amendment; ``yes'' on roll call no. 98, the Young amendment; ``no'' on roll call no. 99, Huffman amendment; and ``no'' on roll call no. 100, the Democratic Motion to Recommit. I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 101, final passage of H.R. 2406, the SHARE Act, offered by Mr. Wittman. This bill will help ensure access to federal lands for sportsmen, and includes provisions to protect our Second Amendment rights.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1471) to reauthorize the programs and activities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA. I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Shuster for his tremendous support and leadership on this bill. Few Members of Congress have had a greater impact on reforming our disaster programs since Hurricane Katrina than Chairman Shuster. This bill represents another important step in that effort, and I greatly appreciate the chairman's help. I also want to thank Ranking Member DeFazio and Ranking Member Carson for their bipartisan support of the bill. The FEMA Disaster Assistance Reform Act has two primary goals: to help save lives and to save taxpayer money. The bill helps save lives by fixing a longstanding problem that hinders the deployment of critical search and rescue teams between States. These reforms will help ensure our constituents receive the help they need when disaster strikes. Additionally, this bill helps save money by improving the cost- effectiveness of FEMA's existing disaster assistance programs. For example, there are provisions that will speed up reconstruction and lower administrative costs. The bill also saves money by encouraging smart recovery practices and mitigation to lower the costs of the next disaster. The bill commissions a comprehensive review of the growing disaster losses the Nation has experienced over the past decades. Experts estimated over $1 trillion of disaster losses have occurred in North America since 1980. FEMA alone has spent almost $200 billion on over 1300 major Presidential disaster declarations since 1989. These numbers are going up, and we should try to find ways to bring those costs down over time. It has been over 20 years since we have had a comprehensive look at disaster spending. It is time for a big picture assessment of what is driving these costs and to review if we, as a Nation, are responding in the most appropriate and cost-effective way. Right after I became a Member of Congress, my district was hit hard by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. I saw homes destroyed, lives and livelihoods upset. Disaster relief is critical at times like these, and people need help to rebuild their lives and rebuild their communities. As I witnessed the recovery, I was amazed that folks were rebuilding back in the very same place, in the very same way, leaving themselves just as vulnerable to the next storm. We have to be compassionate and responsive to our citizens, but we also have a duty to be a good steward of the taxpayer dollars. I am committed to establishing this study to see if we can tackle these tough issues and find solutions that are driven by facts and data rather than the emotion that inevitably follows a disaster. These reforms are one of my top priorities this Congress. At the end of the day, the purpose of this bill is to ensure help will be there when disaster strikes and our constituents need that help the most. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. House of Representatives, Committee on Homeland Security, Washington, DC, February 26, 2016. Hon. Bill Shuster, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Shuster: I am writing to you concerning the jurisdictional interest of the Committee on Homeland Security in H.R. 1471, the ``FEMA Disaster Assistance Act of 2015.'' The bill contains provisions that fall within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Homeland Security. I recognize and appreciate the desire to bring this legislation before the House of Representatives in an expeditious manner, and accordingly, the Committee on Homeland Security will not assert its jurisdictional claim over this bill by seeking a sequential referral. The Committee takes this action with the mutual understanding that by foregoing consideration of H.R. 1471 at this time, we do not waive any jurisdiction over subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and that our Committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as this bill or similar legislation moves forward so that we may address any remaining issues in our jurisdiction. This waiver is also given with the understanding that the Committee on Homeland Security expressly reserves its authority to seek conferees on any provision within its jurisdiction during any House-Senate conference that may be convened on this or any similar legislation, and requests your support for such a request. I would appreciate your response to this letter confirming this understanding with respect to H.R. 1471, and ask that a copy of this letter and your response be included in the Congressional Record during consideration of this bill on the House floor. Sincerely, Michael T. McCaul, Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1471, as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Rodney Davis), who knows very well how important these disaster programs are when disasters have struck his State of Illinois.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. Hartzler), who was very helpful in adding very important language that strengthened this bill.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Graves), who spent a lot of time and worked very hard to make this bill better.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.