Lou Barletta

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, as the 115th Congress comes to a close, so does my time here in Washington. First and foremost, I want to thank the people of Pennsylvania's 11th District who sent me here, who trusted me to make Washington work for them. It has been an honor to serve them in the U.S. House of Representatives over the past eight years. During my time in Congress, I never once forgot that the people of Pennsylvania were the reason why I was here, and I am proud of what I was able to accomplish on their behalf. From initiating the largest reform to our nation's disaster preparedness system since Hurricane Katrina, to participating in the groundbreaking of the Harrisburg courthouse after years of fighting to make it a reality, to watching my legislation to help newborn babies suffering from opioid withdrawal get signed into law, I am proud of the work I have done to improve not only our district and state, but the nation as a whole. As a Member of this body I have had the opportunity to help so many of my fellow Americans, and for that I am grateful. Nothing will ever compare to the day ten-year-old Sarah Murnaghan finally got her lifesaving lung transplant, or to when I was able to present our nation's veterans with long overdue medals they so rightfully deserve. I will never forget the sense of amazement I felt meeting with students from the SHINE afterschool program as they showed me how to program a 3D printer and told me how they planned on running their future businesses, knowing I fought to save the federal funding that makes their program possible. And those moments were just a few of the highlights. Over the last eight years, my office has assisted over 14,000 constituents with casework requests, sponsored over 267 ambitious young people dreaming of attending prestigious military service academies, and secured over $9 million for our local first responders through fire grants, as well as $1.2 million for our law enforcement officers. I have fought to provide small businesses with the tools they need to succeed, eliminated government waste and saved taxpayers $4.4 billion through better management of federal real estate, and worked to make our communities more resilient before disaster strikes through local infrastructure projects, like the Bloomsburg flood wall. I can confidently say that I leave Washington knowing that the people of Pennsylvania are better off than when I first arrived. Growing up, I never imagined that I could become the mayor of my hometown, let alone hold a seat in Congress. I could have never made this journey without the support of my family, and in particular my wife, Mary Grace, who has always stood with me from city council to the U.S. House of Representatives. I also want to thank my staff. Their hard work and dedication to the people of Pennsylvania's 11th District is part of why we were able to accomplish all that we did. It has been a privilege to watch them grow into great professionals, and I have no doubt they will continue to do great things. As I prepare to leave this position, the last few weeks have given me the opportunity to look back and reflect on all that my staff and I have been able to do, and I couldn't be more proud. It is my hope that those elected to this office from this point forward will continue to build upon the important work my office has done and always fight to ensure that Washington is working for the people back home. Mr. Speaker, it has been the greatest honor of my lifetime to represent the people of Pennsylvania's 11th District for four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, and I thank them for giving me this opportunity.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6 which includes my bill, the Treating Barriers to Prosperity Act. The Appalachian region, including much of my home State of Pennsylvania, has an overdose death rate 65 percent higher than the rest of the country for people ages 15 to 64. My legislation will allow communities to use Appalachian Regional Commission funding for everything from attracting doctors to putting in broadband for telemedicine. It will spur economic growth in communities hit hardest by the opioid epidemic, while also helping those struggling with addiction by breaking down barriers to employment.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Valley Chiefs Mini-Football League as the organization celebrates its 50th Anniversary. The Valley Chiefs Mini-Football League is an integral part of the Sugarloaf Valley community. Throughout the years, thousands of lives have been changed through participation in this program. With the goal of teaching children the value of sportsmanship, hard work, and dedication, this organization has impacted the lives of participants, parents, and volunteers alike. As a father and former athlete, I know how influential youth sports are in childhood development and in shaping the future minds of our country. Today, as we recognize the founders, alumni, and current participants of the Valley Chiefs Mini-Football League, I am honored to represent such an organization in Congress. I know this program will continue to grow and be successful for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Valley Chiefs Mini- Football League and congratulate this organization on an incredible 50 years of service to the community.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 302, which includes my bill, the Disaster Recovery Reform Act. In 2017, 8 percent of the United States population, that is 26.4 million Americans, were affected by at least one disaster. This year, we have already seen tragedy strike in our communities. For example, in July and August, Pennsylvania was devastated by widespread flooding that destroyed homes and businesses and, tragically, cost lives. In Hershey, Pennsylvania, Swatara Creek crested at over 17 feet, the second highest level since the weather service began keeping records. As we speak, the Carolinas continue to recover from Hurricane Florence, which took the lives of more than 40 Americans. It is clear that these reforms are needed now more than ever. I thank Chairman Shuster for his support in getting this bill over the finish line. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record an op-ed I coauthored with former FEMA Administrator David Paulison. As Millions Recover From Florence, Congress Has a Chance To Enact Disaster Reform (By Rep. Lou Barletta (R-Pa.) and R. David Paulison, 09/25/18) Last fall, the United States was devastated by an unprecedented string of natural disasters: hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. These stain's now account for three of our country's five most expensive hurricanes on record, causing a combined $265 billion in damages. Even worse, the storms tragically took the lives of countless Americans. With painful memories of these disasters still fresh, the Atlantic hurricane season is once again at its peak in 2018. Hurricane Florence made landfall in the Mid-Atlantic as a record- breaking storm, causing destruction like we have never seen in the region. While the communities affected by Florence will undoubtedly demonstrate American resolve and bounce back, they are serving as unfortunate reminders of the need to overhaul and improve our nation's disaster readiness. As we help those impacted by Florence continue to recover, it is more important than ever that we work to ensure that they are fully prepared for when the next disaster strikes. Over the course of our careers in and around emergency management, we have seen the direct impact pre-disaster mitigation can have on protecting local infrastructure, preserving property, and saving lives. Whether dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Katrina in 2005, or the increasingly costly storms from more recent years, the primary lesson from these events is that there is no substitute for pre-disaster mitigation and resilient infrastructure. It could not be clearer: America needs a better system that saves lives and taxpayer dollars by building smarter and stronger before disaster strikes. These life-saving efforts can also provide massive savings to taxpayers. Expert research has consistently supported this assertion, with one recent study finding that every $1 invested up front in mitigation efforts can save as much as $8 on future costs. With the cost of these storms in the hundreds of billions, the savings pre-disaster mitigation can provide are invaluable. But despite the devastation caused by previous storms and the ongoing havoc of Florence, the United States continues to drag its feet when it comes to disaster preparedness. Many states still do not incentivize the use of certain safety standards, and the federal government wastes billions on reactive post-disaster spending instead of focusing on proactive investment in disaster preparedness. Fortunately, there is already a solution on the table that would provide both much-needed relief for Americans and an investment in a stronger future. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 (DRRA), which has passed the House twice and is currently under consideration in the Senate, would go a long way toward accomplishing the goals of investing in pre- disaster mitigation and creating a more resilient America. Importantly, this bill would increase the amount of money available for pre-disaster mitigation following major disasters. By arming communities with the necessary resources to strengthen their infrastructure against hurricanes and other disasters, those affected across the country will be better equipped for the next inevitable disaster. With the DRRA, Congress has an opportunity to enact real disaster reform. Encouragingly, there have been recent signs that our national approach to disaster response, recovery, and mitigation is trending in the right direction. Earlier this year, the House of Representatives included a cost share incentive provision designed to greatly enhance state resiliency in the Bipartisan Budget Reform Act that was signed into law by President Trump. FEMA, in addition to its extraordinary work done regularly in responding to disasters, is taking steps to ensure that this law is implemented effectively and efficiently. The Trump administration has provided strength in its response to those suffering from recent disasters, with Vice President Pence telling a community wracked by Hurricane Harvey that they would work to ``[rebuild] all of Texas bigger and better than ever before.'' However, these actions are only the beginning of the required wholesale shift in our national disaster framework. It is up to Congress to continue this momentum and enact meaningful reforms that will save lives, property and taxpayer dollars. Including the record-breaking 2017 season, disaster spending continues to be an ever-expanding cost category for the United States. With another tumultuous hurricane season underway, it is time for lawmakers to act. Safer, stronger communities mean a safer, stronger country. If members of Congress are serious about serving their constituents, then senators must finish the important work the House started and pass the Disaster Recovery Reform Act now.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to recognize the Zionist Organization of America's Greater Philadelphia Chapter as they celebrate their 2018 Gala. This event highlights America and Israel's important relationship, as well as provides an opportunity to honor individuals who have been especially active in their communities. Since its founding in 1897, the Zionist Organization of America has sought to raise awareness of the American-Israeli relationship and to educate the American public on the realities of the Israeli experience. The Greater Philadelphia Chapter has remained a strong source of Israeli activism, as it provides educational opportunities and resources to the citizens of my home state of Pennsylvania. I want to extend a special congratulations to this year's honorees at the 2018 Gala: Sam Rohrer, Sharon Meller, Menachem Meller, William Wanger, Cynthia Wanger, Sharon Resnick, and Jeff Resnick. These dedicated individuals are important advocates for one of the United States' most trusted allies, and their work remains vital to our nation's international strategy. Throughout their impressive careers, they have advanced and uplifted their communities, fostered the growth of young professionals, and empowered American and Israeli families. Such dedication to local and international service is certainly deserving of widespread recognition. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Zionist Organization of America's Greater Philadelphia Chapter as they celebrate their 2018 Gala and honor these seven outstanding men and women.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Tunkhannock Tigers Little League Softball Team for their outstanding performance in the 2018 Little League Softball World Series. The Tunkhannock Tigers had an impressive run in this year' s tournament. They were the No. 1 seed in the quarterfinal game and ultimately advanced to the championship, where they fought hard but suffered a loss to a team from Wheelersburg, Ohio. Throughout the entire series, they showed an impressive level of poise and determination. These exceptional athletes serve as an example for not only aspiring female athletes, but for all Pennsylvania youths. Their talent and dedication are a great source of pride for the community and state at large, as they were the only team from Pennsylvania in the tournament. I am honored to represent the Tunkhannock Tigers. I know these young women have bright futures ahead of them and will go on to accomplish great things. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Tunkhannock Tigers Little League Softball Team and congratulating these athletes on their hard fought second place finish in the 2018 Little League Softball World Series.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Upper Dauphin High School Softball Team for winning the Pennsylvania State Championship title for the first time in the school's history. The Upper Dauphin Trojans' softball program is one of determination, hard work, and talent. This year's win was especially impressive, as they overcame a losing record of 4-8 at midseason, and ended the season, after 13 straight victories, with a 17-8 record. Upon winning this coveted title, the Trojans made school history by being the first of the schools' softball teams to become Pennsylvania State Champions. These exceptional athletes serve as an example for not only aspiring female athletes, but for all Pennsylvania youths. Their talent, dedication, and teamwork are a great source of pride for the school and the community at large. I am honored to represent the Upper Dauphin High School Girls Softball Team and take great pride in its remarkable achievement. I know these young women will go on to accomplish great things. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Upper Dauphin High School Softball Team and congratulating these athletes on their well- deserved 2018 State Championship title.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 5846, as amended, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Sanford).

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5846, as amended, the Promoting Flood Risk Mitigation Act, requires the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study and issue a report to Congress regarding the flood buyout practices of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The removal of homes and buildings that have been repeatedly flooded to avoid future disaster damages and losses is a critical mitigation technique. These mitigation measures not only save lives but also reduce disaster costs by minimizing the risk of future damage from disasters. Studies have shown that for every $1 invested in mitigation, there is a potential savings of $4 to $8, because of damages avoided. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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 materials on H.R. 5846, as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R 5846) to require the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a study regarding the buyout practices of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA

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

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, S. 2734 would designate the Federal building and the United States courthouse located in Laredo, Texas, as the George P. Kazen Federal Building and United States Courthouse. Judge Kazen was appointed to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas by President Carter in 1979. He served as chief judge from 1996 to 2003, and assumed senior status in 2009. In March of this year, he retired from the bench. Prior to his appointment as a Federal judge, Judge Kazen was in private practice for 14 years. Earlier in his career, he served in the United States Air Force as a captain and judge advocate. In addition, Judge Kazen has been an adjunct professor of law at St. Mary's University School of Law and served as judge on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court. Given Judge Kazen's service, I think it is more than fit to name this Federal building and courthouse after him. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 2734.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 2734) to designate the Federal building and United States courthouse located at 1300 Victoria Street in Laredo, Texas, as the ``George P. Kazen Federal Building and United States Courthouse''.

Mr. BARLETTA

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

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. H.R. 3460 would designate the United States courthouse located in Durham, North Carolina, as the John Hervey Wheeler United States Courthouse. Mr. Wheeler played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement. John Wheeler was a respected civil rights leader in Durham, North Carolina, successfully litigating school segregation cases in the 1940s. In 1961, President Kennedy appointed Mr. Wheeler to the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission where he worked alongside Vice President Johnson in drafting civil rights legislation. Mr. Wheeler also served as president of the Mechanics & Farmers Bank where he was able to continue his work on civil rights issues, making possible the purchase of homes, the acquisition of Federal loans, and a relaxation of racial barriers in North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I think it is fitting to name the courthouse in Durham after him. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous materials on H.R. 3460, as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3460) to designate the United States courthouse located at 323 East Chapel Hill Street in Durham, North Carolina, as the ``John Hervey Wheeler United States Courthouse'', as amended.

Mr. BARLETTA

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

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Thornberry).

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5772 would designate the J. Marvin Jones Federal Building and Courthouse in Amarillo, Texas, as the J. Marvin Jones Federal Building and Mary Lou Robinson United States Courthouse. Judge Robinson was a legal pioneer, paving the way for women in what was once a male-dominated profession. In 1973, Judge Robinson was appointed justice of the Seventh Court of Appeals in Amarillo, Texas, making her the first female appellate judge in Texas. Four years later, she was appointed to chief justice of the same court. Five years later, President Carter appointed Robinson to a Federal judgeship as the second woman to serve as a United States district judge in Texas. For over 60 years, Judge Robinson was a pioneer, a scholar, and, above all, a judge of fairness and integrity. I support naming this Federal building and courthouse after her. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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. 5772.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5772) to designate the J. Marvin Jones Federal Building and Courthouse in Amarillo, Texas, as the ``J. Marvin Jones Federal Building and Mary Lou Robinson United States Courthouse''.