Susan Brooks

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I want to thank my dear friend, the gentlewoman from North Carolina, for organizing this session today. Last week, when she organized this Special Order, I don't think you were really entirely aware how timely the topic would be today. I am so pleased that you did organize this, so thank you. Now, many of us are still reviewing the text, having just received the 150 pages, that make up this deal with Iran; but from what I have heard thus far, it leaves me highly skeptical that the accord that was reached does not advance our interests in the region and signifies a retreat from the world stage. Let me first say that, even if we take the President at his word, the words that I heard this morning--and we assume for a second that this deal cuts off ``every pathway to a nuclear weapon''--there are still significant ramifications for granting $150 billion in sanctions relief to a country whose unofficial motto, that we just heard from the gentlewoman of Missouri, has become ``death to America.'' As Israeli Ambassador Dermer told some of my constituents just last night at a Christians United for Israel speech, a $150 billion infusion of cash into Iran's coffers is like a trillion dollars flowing into the United States Treasury; and that money will go toward funding the Ayatollah's terror machines, ranging from Assad's regime in Syria, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, Hamas, the Islamic jihad in Gaza, and the many other of Iran's terror proxies throughout the region. This is compounded by the fact that the deal will lift the conventional arms embargo in Iran in no more than 5 years and the embargo on missile sales to Iran in no more than 8 years. What the deal appears to do is give the Iranian regime $150 billion in sanctions relief, while simultaneously allowing them to buy more conventional weapons, weapons that we know have been used in the past to actually kill American soldiers. Now, this isn't to mention the unintended consequence that effectively shreds our foreign policy playbook that has guided the U.S. on the world stage for decades. This is a historic mistake--not only what Prime Minister Netanyahu has said is a historic mistake for the world, but it will allow Iran to continue to pursue its aggression and terror in the region. As the Congresswoman from Missouri said, it will start a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Just today, former CIA Director, General Hayden, testified that not only do we need to understand that our nuclear focus does not make other realities go away, even if we had a successful conclusion to these nuclear negotiations, issues will remain. I just want to close by reminding what our issues will Iran include. We know and believe they are the largest state supporter sponsor of terrorism. They hold American hostages without a fair trial. They support Palestinian terrorism, and they destabilize Iraq where we have invested so much treasure and lives. Hayden concluded the issue is not just Iran's nuclear problem; the issue is Iran itself. Madam Speaker, no deal is clearly a better outcome than a bad deal; and I, too, am extremely concerned the Obama administration has negotiated a bad deal. I assure you that my colleagues and I will leave no detail of the final negotiated terms unexplored as this decision comes with consequences that will reverberate for generations moving forward. The world cannot afford a nuclear Iran and thus cannot afford a deal with unacceptable terms.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Chairman, I rise today to voice my unwavering support for 21st Century Cures and vehement opposition to the amendment before us. What the authors of this specific amendment fail to grasp is that 21st Century Cures will actually advance real conservative reforms to the entitlement system that will reduce the deficit and save our Nation billions of dollars. There are real cuts in this bill. CBO has scored it. And since when are we ignoring CBO? These reforms didn't happen overnight. This legislation is the result of well over a year of thoughtful and purposeful negotiations. Unfortunately, the backers of this amendment cannot see the forest for the trees. Contrary to the misinformation that led them to craft it, the innovation fund is not forever on autopilot. It sunsets after 5 years. Those are 5 solid years where we can recruit the top minds to investigate cures that will change and save lives, yes, the lives of our children and the next generation. I urge my colleagues to stand with me in opposition, in addition to the over 100 groups who are opposed to the Brat amendment, groups of patient groups, universities, veterans, innovators, medical providers. Every one of these groups urges Members to vote ``no'' on the Brat amendment, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a beloved friend, Judy Studebaker Warren. Judy, of the famous Studebaker automobile family, was a vibrant, caring, and passionate individual. Her love of life and contagious smile had a rippling effect of positivity on everyone around her. Sadly, after an almost two year battle with cancer, Judy passed away on July 5, 2015. It is my privilege to honor her extraordinary life on the floor of the United States House of Representatives. A lifelong Hoosier, Judy grew up in Logansport, Indiana and graduated from Logansport High School. After high school she earned her bachelor's degree in sociology from Indiana University, where she was a proud member of the Pi Beta Phi Sorority and later became an active member of the Indiana University Alumni Association. She also served as President of the Junior League of Indianapolis, an organization she loved that benefitted from her energy and talents. Whether it was planning a fundraising gala for the Junior League or hosting a tailgate at an Indiana University football game, Judy was a gracious and amazing hostess who brought joy to everyone around her. Judy's love of community and commitment to volunteering extended well beyond the Junior League of Indianapolis. She was the founding member of the Indianapolis Chapter of D.A.R.E. in the Pike Township School System and created many inaugural events, including ArtSparkle for the Indianapolis Art Center, the Tribute for the Indiana State Museum, and REV to benefit Methodist Health Foundation. She also had extensive board participation, serving on the boards of the Indianapolis Art Center, Indiana State Museum, Championship Auto Racing Auxiliary, The National Art Museum of Sports, The Oaks Academy, and Ballet Internationale, to name a few. Her other affiliations include the Governor's Residence Commission, St. Margaret's Hospital Guild, American Cancer Society Guild, Presidents Roundtable, Indiana Children's Wish Fund's Ball and Spotlight, and Keep Indianapolis Beautiful. She was cause-oriented and loved a challenge; give her a goal and she was a fundraising machine. But most of all, she always had fun--and made sure everyone else did, too. Judy was an innovator and the Hoosier community was her beneficiary. She brought so much good to the City of Indianapolis, and her hard work did not go unnoticed. After she completed her Junior League of Indianapolis Presidency Mayor Bart Peterson named June 4, 2003 as Judy Warren Day in the City of Indianapolis. She also received Governor Daniels' Distinguished Hoosier Award in 2006 and Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard's Community Achievement Award in 2010. Judy was an embodiment of all that is kind and generous. Judy is and always will be an inspiration to me. Her grace, bravery, and spirit will live on through those whose lives she touched. She is survived by her husband, Brick; son, Clay, and his wife Stasha; her mother, Vera; and her beloved grandchildren, Katie and Ethan. She is also survived by her stepson, Ryan, and his wife, Elizabeth; and their children, Elijiah Brick (E.B.), Martha Claire and George Taylor Warren. Judy Warren is an example of a great American woman who throughout her lifetime served her family, her friends, and community with passion and love.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to express my wholehearted support for the 21st Century Cures initiative. This legislation will change lives, and it will save lives. When Chairman Upton and Congresswoman DeGette introduced this bipartisan initiative, they promised it would be different. They used words like ``bold,'' ``transformative,'' ``profound,'' and ``hope.'' They promised hope, and they promised to change lives. Thankfully, they have delivered on these promises and then some. 21st Century Cures will profoundly transform our Nation's ability to discover, develop, and deliver the cures of tomorrow. It will change and even save lives, lives like that of Fifth District constituent Teresa Altemeyer, who has a form of chronic leukemia. 21st Century Cures can make all of the difference. She recently told me, as one of the many hundreds of thousands of patients living with chronic lingering cancer, ``I am always looking forward to the future for the next therapy that can either hold off my cancer or potentially cure it, and in the past the wait for these medications has been excruciatingly slow.'' Tomorrow I will be missing the funeral of a dear friend, Judy Warren, who died on Sunday from pancreatic cancer. She would have wanted me to be here tomorrow, voting on this bill. It couldn't save her, but it can save Teresa and many others.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 615, the Department of Homeland Security Interoperable Communications Act. I want to commend Mr. Payne on this momentous day for the hard work he has spent crafting and shaping this bill. A year ago, when I was Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, Mr. Payne approached me with concern after learning that DHS has not achieved Department-wide interoperability. He told me that although nationwide over $13 billion has been invested in achieving interoperable communications at the State and local level, the DHS Office of Inspector General, found that ``personnel do not have reliable interoperable communications for daily operations, planned events, and emergencies.'' As a former U.S. Attorney, who helped set up Indiana's Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council and Fusion Center, I was astounded by this persistent information gap and pledged to work with the gentleman on producing and moving a bill that puts DHS on the path to achieving interoperability. The bill before us does this by requiring the Department's Under Secretary for Management to develop a strategy for achieving and maintaining interoperable communications between the DHS components. Moreover, it requires DHS to report to Congress on the progress it is making toward achieving these milestones. Seamless communication between first responders in the aftermath of a disaster is absolutely vital to coordinating an effective response. As we learned on 9/11, inoperability of first responders' communication systems led to confusion, duplication, and discord that cost some brave men and women their lives. The federal government must take the lead in this effort and develop a system that will allow DHS's own components to effectively communicate both day to day and, most importantly, during emergencies. After nearly a year and three votes on the House floor, I'm proud of the tenacity and dedication of the gentleman in sheparding this bill through both chambers. I'm proud to support this bill that will head directly to the President's desk for signature and thus improve the safety of all our communities.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend my colleague from Minnesota for leading this effort since I came to Congress in 2013. I rise today joining my fellow Hoosiers seeking greater opportunity for all Americans, and I rise today to call for a swift end to a tax that is standing in the way of that opportunity. Back home, I hear from countless Hoosiers about the restrictions the medical device tax is placing on our life sciences industry, not only in Indiana but across the country. This tax takes away the opportunities to innovate, to hire more people, and most importantly to improve the patient access to critical technology. In Indiana the life sciences industry is vitally important. It has a $59 billion impact on our economy and employs more than 56,000 people. In fact, we are second--Indiana is second only to California in exports of life sciences products. Mr. Speaker, my colleagues on both sides of the aisle know that the unfair medical device tax jeopardizes our competitive edge, it stunts our workforce opportunities, but most importantly, it is decreasing access to lifesaving technology for people. Mr. Speaker, I want to stand for jobs, stand for improving people's health, and stand for more opportunity. I urge my colleagues to repeal the medical device tax.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary accomplishments of Dr. Charles Bantz. After serving over a decade as Chancellor at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, Dr. Bantz will be stepping down as chancellor. IUPUI, one of the country's leading urban universities, flourished under Chancellor Bantz's leadership, and Hoosiers are eternally grateful for his contributions. IUPUI's location in the heart of Indiana's capital city has long brought with it a special responsibility of service to the residents of Indianapolis and Indiana. Chancellor Bantz understood this and the campus has significantly strengthened its ties to the city and state during his tenure. He helped transform and improve the university, which had positive impacts on students, faculty, and the surrounding communities. Chancellor Bantz is a persistent advocate for student success with a clear dedication to education. He successfully facilitated an increase in the number of students who earn their degrees; provided a wider range of educational options available to students; added eleven bachelor degree programs, ten doctoral, and ten masters programs as well as schools for public health and philanthropy. Research dollars for IUPUI increased by over $100 million dollars under his leadership and his commitment to research and community service did not stop there, as evidenced by the endowment of the Bantz-Petronio Translating Research into Practice Award. He also serves as a Board Member and Executive Committee Member for United Way of Central Indiana, was a member of the NCAA Division I Board of Directors and NCAA Executive Committee, and is the Director of Urban Serving Universities, among many other boards. Chancellor Bantz has served his students, faculty, and the City of Indianapolis exceedingly well. Although Charles is stepping down from his position as Chancellor, his commitment to IUPUI will live on as a faculty member. He built a legacy of community service and left a lasting impact on the IUPUI community, and for that we extend a huge thank you. On behalf of all Hoosiers, I'd like to congratulate Charles on his success and wish him and his wife, Professor Sandra Petronio, the best as they begin their next adventure in our community they have worked so hard to make a wonderful place.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Police Week and to honor the memory of law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. All Americans are grateful for these brave men and women and the ultimate sacrifice they made. During my time as deputy mayor of Indianapolis and U.S. attorney, I witnessed firsthand the burdens and challenges faced by our law enforcement officers and their amazing families. Even more importantly, I witnessed men and women in blue who have overcome these challenges while displaying so much compassion and commitment to duty. Our Nation must embrace them and be forever mindful of their integrity and service. Sadly, we have learned it is estimated that, every 3\1/2\ days in this country, we lose an officer in the line of duty. This week, we will remember 117 officers killed in 2014, including four officers from Indiana: Jeffrey Westerfield of Gary, Perry Renn of Indianapolis, Nickolaus Schultz of Merrillville, and Jacob Calvin of Tipton County. We are thankful for their service and send our thoughts and prayers to their loved ones. Without hesitation, we renew our appreciation and steadfast commitment to our heroic women and men in blue.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 212, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.'' Amendment Offered by Mr. LaMalfa

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true patriot and public servant, Major General R. Martin Umbarger. After serving over four decades in the Indiana National Guard, including the past 10 as our adjutant general, I extend congratulations to him on the occasion of his retirement. As commander of the fourth largest National Guard contingent in the United States, Major General Umbarger impacted the lives of countless Hoosiers and Americans. When communities in southern Indiana were torn apart by tornadoes, it was General Umbarger and the National Guard who came to their rescue. When the global war on terrorism began, it was General Umbarger and our 21,000 National Guardsmen who supported our most critical military operations. General Umbarger is truly an extraordinary leader who has displayed a steadfast commitment to protecting Americans' freedoms at home and abroad. He also started the Hoosier Youth Challenge Academy in Knightsville, which works to give so many kids a brighter future. Major General Umbarger is a hero in every sense of the word. It is with pride that I recognize his tremendous legacy, and I wish him and his wife, Rowanna, the very best as they celebrate a well-deserved retirement.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Carmel High School Girls Swim team for winning the 2014-2015 Girls Swimming State Championship title. This state title is a momentous win for the Lady Greyhounds, as it marks their 29th consecutive state championship title, which ties the national record for the most consecutive state championship wins in any sport. While their 29th consecutive state title is momentous on its own, what the Lady Greyhound swim team accomplished during the state championship was even more extraordinary than that. The Lady Greyhounds broke thirteen state records at the state championship meet, four of which also broke national records. To recap their record breaking state title, six individual records were broken, four records were broken by relay teams--all four of which also broke national records--and the team as a whole broke 3 records. The team won 9 out of 11 events, breaking the state record for most first place event wins. They also broke records for most points scored, scoring 445 out of 544 points possible, and widest margin of victory, beating the second place team by 266 points. These extraordinary achievements at the state championship speak for themselves, and have led many to refer to this team as the best team ever in high school girls swimming. The Lady Greyhounds, under the leadership of Coach Chris Plumb, have put forth an incredible amount of hard work and dedication. The team trains year-round, puts in countless hours in the pool and weight room, and have supportive parents who are just as dedicated to helping achieve great success. Coach Plumb has been head coach of the Lady Greyhounds since 2006, leading them to 9 of their last 29 consecutive titles. Coach Plumb leads by example and inspires his swimmers with his coaching and character. He works tirelessly to motivate, train, and push his swimmers to dream big and reach their goals. High school sports are a special experience. They teach discipline, build character, and allow young men and women to have an experience they will remember for a lifetime. This team exemplifies the wonderful attributes that high school sports teach, and I am proud to represent such a hardworking and highly regarded group of young women and coaches. Once again, congratulations to the Carmel High School Girls Swim team. I look forward to cheering the team on through another great season next year and send my best wishes as the Lady Greyhounds work toward breaking the national record for most consecutive wins. Go Greyhounds!

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary career and accomplishments of Jim McClelland. For more than four decades, Jim served as President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District and central Indiana are forever grateful for Jim's community leadership. Jim has spent most of his professional life with Goodwill. After receiving his Bachelor of Industrial Engineering degree from Georgia Tech and his MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, he served in the military for three years. He then began his career with Goodwill and has been with the company ever since. He started with the company in 1970 in Texas and moved to Indianapolis in 1973 to work with then-President and CEO Alan McNeil. Alan, a role model to Jim, tragically passed away less than a year after Jim moved to Indiana. Jim was named his successor and has been building and developing the organization ever since. Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana has only had three CEO's since its founding in 1930 and Jim has been at the helm since 1974. Goodwill of Central Indiana has blossomed under Jim's leadership. He clearly has a true passion for Goodwill's mission and is an outstanding leader and social entrepreneur. When he first joined the Indianapolis team, the nonprofit had 558 employees, eight retail stores, and $3 million in revenue. Today, the company has more than 3,100 employees, 55 retail stores, 10 commercial sites, 10 charter high schools, and $310 million in revenue. All profits from the retail side go back into improving the community. With these profits, Jim launched many social services aimed at reducing the long-term effects of poverty. He also worked tirelessly to expand job opportunities for unemployed Hoosiers and led philanthropic efforts in education and health. Two of his most notable accomplishments are the creation of the Excel Center, a program offering education to adults wanting to earn their high school diploma, and bringing the Nurse-Family Partnership to Indianapolis, a nonprofit that helps first-time, low-income mothers. Jim is undoubtedly a savvy businessman and wise investor, but his commitment to humanitarianism is what shines through the most. He always puts others first, combining his talents to improve the future of others. His commitment to helping others extends far beyond his position with Goodwill of Central Indiana. He is involved with Goodwill Industries nationally and internationally, has served on the boards of numerous not-for-profit organizations, and been honored with awards in the nonprofit arena. Just to name a few of his accomplishments, he helped start a new Goodwill organization in South Korea, sits on the board of the Indiana Public Charter Schools Association, and was named Nonprofit Executive of the Year by The Nonprofit Times in 2000. On behalf of the grateful constituents of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I congratulate Jim on the occasion of his retirement. His entrepreneurial and humanitarian spirit has left an everlasting impact on the Indianapolis community and beyond. I wish the very best to Jim, his wife, Jane, and their two children as he enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the sobering but extremely consequential topic of Christian persecution. Last week, I had the honor of visiting with more than 100 parishioners of St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Zionsville, Indiana, including many interested high school students who shared with me their passionate concerns about the senseless persecution of their Christian brethren. Through the church's Social Action Committee, they wanted to know how a small, faithful community could make a difference in bringing attention to this commonly overlooked matter. However, they wondered if their cries for mercy were falling on deaf ears in Washington. They felt helpless in bringing to light the barbarity, torture, and living conditions that Christians in places like Iran endure. The parishioners at St. Alphonsus felt that too often horrendous massacres are met with isolationism and arguments that it is not America's job to promote human rights beyond our shores. Today I want to let the people of St. Alphonsus and all those who seek to give a voice to the silenced victims of religious persecution know I hear you, and others in Washington, D.C., do as well. I believe that America must reassume its leadership role in protecting those most destitute and downtrodden, that American leadership in the world should advance not only our national interests but also the interests of those who yearn for freedom across the globe, that Christians who have to shield their faith for fear of crucifixion or beheading have an ally in America, an ally who will fight for the dignity of all mankind. Incidents of persecution of Christians more than doubled in 2014 alone. I wish I could say I was surprised by this increase, but I am not. I think this is part of the larger trend around the globe. The world we live in is remarkably unstable right now. People lack security. Too many regions of our world are fending off the rise of groups that espouse extremely radical ideologies, groups that hate this Nation, groups that often hate all other religions, groups that feed off of destruction and poverty, groups that value violence over peace, groups that are clearly not a true or worthy representation of the religions they claim as their own. The parishioners at St. Alphonsus Church asked me: What can we do? I told them America first needs a smart and decisive plan because the threat Christians face is significant, and it is not going away. The United States must work with free nations across the globe to reaffirm a simple but important message: human rights are not negotiable. Countries don't get to pick and choose which rights they allow and which ones they deny. We also need to work more locally to raise awareness of the specific issue of Christian persecution. There must be a strong grassroots element to this effort. Each month, approximately 180 Christians are killed across the globe because of their faith. That is a startling number. In America, a country where it is so easy to take our freedoms for granted, it is easy not to notice the pain and suffering of others, but we must. And I know we are a truly generous and kind people. When Japanese communities were torn apart by a massive tsunami in 2009, Americans mobilized to donate more than $700 million in charitable relief. Americans always answer the call when people are suffering. Well, today there is clearly a tsunami of hatred sweeping parts of the world, and there are people who need our help. So churches and other groups with a concern for their fellow Christians and all global citizens need to take a stand. Like those at St. Alphonsus have, Christians and people of all faiths across this Nation need to reach out to their elected officials and let them know of the tragic persecution of Christians and that it deserves attention, that religious freedom is a value we must defend and promote. Only then will everyone in this body know what was foretold in Matthew, that blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven. Let us now work to bring that kingdom of Heaven closer to Earth.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about an American hero. Allen Harrington of Anderson, Indiana, was one of the Nation's first African American Marines. He and his fellow Montford Point Marines broke the U.S. Marine Corps color barrier during World War II. Mr. Harrington specifically worked in an ammunitions factory and aided efforts to rescue prisoners of war being held by the Japanese. How many Americans can say they broke racial barriers while serving our country when the future of the free world was on the line? Allen Harrington could. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2002, 9 years before legislation was passed awarding living members of the Montford Point Marines the Congressional Gold Medal. This weekend, residents of Anderson and his family will gather at city hall to pay tribute to his tremendous legacy. I look forward to presenting his daughter, Darlene, a special certificate and letter from the President and a replica Montford Point Marine medal. I am proud to know this American hero hails from Indiana's Fifth District. I am even more proud his remarkable life will finally receive the recognition it deserves.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. James L. Edwards on the occasion of his retirement. For 25 years Dr. Edwards has served as President of Anderson University. He is the longest serving president of a university in Indiana's history and has contributed so much to the community. The people of the Fifth Congressional District of Indiana are forever grateful for Dr. Edwards' contributions and commitment to Anderson University and the Hoosier community. In 1990, Dr. Edwards became the fourth President of Anderson University since its establishment in 1917. He took office July 1, 1990, however his relationship with the school goes back decades before that. Dr. Edwards is a graduate of Anderson University, receiving his bachelor's degree from the school and later his master's degree from the Anderson University School of Theology. Prior to his tenure as President he held two positions with Anderson University, first as Director of Student Recruitment (1966-1970) and later as Director of Church and Alumni Relations (1972-1975). Growing up as the son of a minister in Ohio, Dr. Edwards has a long history with the church. His expertise and contributions to the church are not limited to his time with Anderson University. After completing his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Anderson University, he went on to receive his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Policy and Leadership at the Ohio State University. As an ordained minister he has more than 30 years of experience, most notably as Senior Pastor of the Meadow Park Church in Columbus, Ohio as well as other churches throughout Indiana and Michigan. He also served at the national level as President and CEO of Warner Press, a publishing house for the Church of God, where he directed the work of the largest religious publisher in Indiana. During his tenure as President he presided over the Anderson School of Theology, a graduate program for the training of ministers, the same program from which he received his master's degree. He recognized the importance of resource development and led campaigns that raised more than $205 million for the school, which included the construction of several campus buildings. Dr. Edwards was not just involved locally, but also at state and national levels. At the state level, he served as chair of the board for Independent Colleges of Indiana and was a member of the Steering Committee of the Indiana Leadership Prayer Breakfast. He served at the national level on the Board of Directors of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities as well as director of the board of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Dr. Edwards' leadership was most evident at home. He showed extensive commitment to community at the local level in Anderson, Indiana. He has served on the board of directors for many groups, including the Madison County Community Foundation, the Corporation for Economic Development of Madison County, First Merchants Bank of Central Indiana, St. Vincent Anderson Regional Hospital, Citizens Banking Company, and the United Way. Additionally, he served on the Ministries Council of the Church of God and is a member of the Rotary Club of Anderson, where he was honored with the 2003 Community Image Award. On behalf of the grateful constituents of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I congratulate Dr. Edwards on the occasion of his retirement. We congratulate him on his remarkable career and extend a huge thank you for all of the wonderful contributions he has made to the Hoosier community, to our state, and our nation. I wish the very best to Dr. Edwards, his wife, Deanna, his three children, and his six grandchildren as he enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 623, the Social Media Working Group Act of 2015. Social media is transforming the way the Nation is communicating before, during, and after terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other emergencies. There are countless examples from recent events of how citizens are turning to Facebook, Twitter, and even Instagram for public safety information, to comfort survivors, and to request assistance. For example, during the height of the most recent winter storm Juno in the Northeast, there were over 20,000 posts using the hashtag #blizzardof2015. A quarter of Americans--let me repeat that--a quarter of Americans got information about the devastating terrorist attack at the 2013 Boston Marathon from Facebook and Twitter. Immediately following that attack and during the manhunt, the Boston Police Department utilized social media as a way to communicate with and solicit information from citizens and visitors. In fact, the first official announcement that Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev had been captured was not through a traditional press conference, but it was through the Boston Police Department's Twitter account. That post was retweeted more than 135,000 times. These examples prove that social media has become one of the primary ways we share information. In the 113th Congress, I served as the chair of the Committee on Homeland Security's Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications with the gentleman from New Jersey as my ranking member. Our subcommittee held two hearings that focused on this new phenomenon, and we learned that while the Nation is making great strides in this area, gaps and challenges remain. One of the key takeaways from these hearings was that during and after a terrorist attack, natural disaster, or other emergency, there is still a need for better communication between the public sector and the private sector, specifically with how we utilize social media as a communication tool. Last year, I introduced this bill, along with Ranking Member Payne, Chairman McCaul, Representative Palazzo, and Representative Swalwell, to address this issue; and I am pleased now to reintroduce the bill this Congress. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 623 addresses the issues we heard in our hearings by authorizing and enhancing the Department of Homeland Security's Virtual Social Media Working Group to ensure information sharing between the Department and appropriate stakeholders and the leveraging of best practices. Currently, the Virtual Social Media Working Group, which is made up mostly of State and local officials, is doing great work in developing guidance documents on how to utilize social media during disasters. In fact, it produced a lessons learned paper on social media usage during Hurricane Sandy. This bill will increase the working group's stakeholder participation, particularly among the private sector and Federal response agencies, thereby creating a Whole Community dialogue on this issue. The bill will require this group to submit an annual report to Congress highlighting best practices, lessons learned, and any recommendations. Finally, this bill will require the group to meet in person or virtually at least twice a year, and it will not be a financial burden on the Department. In today's day and age, when new social media platforms and technologies can change the game almost instantly, we must ensure our critical first responders are nimble enough to adapt to an ever- changing landscape. This group is one way to help facilitate this. The House passed this bill last Congress with strong bipartisan support. I now want to thank Chairman Shuster and Chairman Barletta of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for working with the Committee on Homeland Security and me to get this bill to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to join me in supporting this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I again thank the gentlewoman from the District of Columbia and the gentleman from New Jersey in supporting this important legislation. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentlelady from the District of Columbia and the gentleman from New Jersey for continuing this important work that we began last year. It was a visit to the American Red Cross shortly after Hurricane Sandy where we learned about the important role that social media had played and the growing role that it played and the fact that they have digital volunteers now who continue to work on behalf of saving lives. I just want to thank all of those who have been supportive of this bill, and I urge my colleagues to join me in once again supporting this important legislation. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 623) to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the Department of Homeland Security to establish a social media working group, and for other purposes.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. 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. 623.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 615, the Department of Homeland Security Interoperable Communications Act. I did have the opportunity to work on this bill with the fine gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications last Congress when I chaired the subcommittee. I am very pleased to see this bill on the floor today, and I want to thank Chairman McCaul and Ranking Member Thompson for bringing it back to the floor. The need for interoperable communications was highlighted, as the Congressman from New Jersey noted, by the 9/11 Commission after the September 11 terrorist attacks. We know that much progress has been made by first responders across the country in gaining interoperability, and the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network that is being developed by the First Responder Network Authority will further contribute to these capabilities. However, as the Department of Homeland Security inspector general's November 2012 report illustrated, the Department, itself, has not made sufficient progress in addressing its own interoperable communications capabilities. H.R. 615 works to address this serious issue by requiring the Department's Under Secretary for Management to develop a strategy for achieving and maintaining interoperable communications between the DHS components. It requires DHS, as you have learned, to report to Congress on the progress it is making toward achieving milestones. As a former U.S. attorney who helped set up Indiana's Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council after 9/11 and Indiana's first fusion center, I know firsthand the importance of seamless communication between first responders, especially in times of crisis, including those in the Department of Homeland Security. Continued inability to make progress on interoperability can have serious consequences for public safety across our country. That is why Congress must hold our various law enforcement agencies, particularly those in Federal Government, accountable for communicating clearly with one another to ensure we eliminate confusion, duplication, and discord among those most necessary when lives are on the line. That is exactly what the gentleman from New Jersey's bill does, and that is why I encourage my colleagues to support, once again, this very important piece of legislation, and I thank him for his leadership.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Human Trafficking Detection Act of 2015, and I commend my colleague from North Carolina and the gentlewoman from Texas for their advocacy on this really important issue. Many of my colleagues that I have heard speak today said they learned about this when they came to Congress. I learned about this devastating modern-day slavery when I was a United States attorney in the Southern District of Indiana between 2001 and 2007. We started one of the first task forces in the country, and there are task forces across the country that have been focused on human trafficking now for quite some time, but we must do more because even now an estimated 17,500 people are trafficked throughout the U.S. each year. Sadly, this problem disproportionately affects young girls between the ages of 12 and 14 who are lured by these crime networks. Mr. Speaker, I rise today because I learned during that time with that task force and with my time in the U.S. Attorney's Office these are very difficult crimes to prosecute. The reason they are so difficult to prosecute is because they are difficult to detect, it is difficult to lure victims out of these crime networks, and so we have to do more. We have to educate our law enforcement, we have to educate those who are standing at our ports of entry, those who are standing at our airports and our mass transit areas, and teach them about the warning signs, what they need to be looking for, so we can stop trafficking at the source, prosecute those who are responsible, and save the victims. That is why I support this bill, which requires the Department of Homeland Security to implement comprehensive training programs on deterring, detecting, and disrupting this human trafficking. Our law enforcement personnel are standing on the front lines. They have to be equipped with the best-practice methods for identifying the victims and the perpetrators so they can bring these perpetrators to justice. Criminals change their methods all the time, and I am pleased that this bill also requires an annual reassessment of training programs. They have to continue to train. It is time for Congress to act decisively to eradicate human trafficking. We need to do more. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a beloved member of the Indianapolis community, Bill Mays. Sadly he unexpectedly passed away on December 4, 2014, his 69th birthday. Bill was a businessman, a family man, a leader of the community, and a philanthropist. He built an economic dream in his business and used his fortune to help others. His dedication to the Hoosier community will forever be remembered. A lifelong Hoosier, Bill was born in Evansville on December 4, 1945. He graduated as the number one male academically from Evansville Central High School, where he was also a member of the football team. He later received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry and a Master of Business Administration from Indiana University in Bloomington. He later went on to receive four Honorary Doctorates from universities and colleges in Indiana. In 1980, Bill launched Mays Chemical Company, Inc. and grew it into one of the largest chemical distribution companies in North America. During the first year of business he doubled his $1 million sales objective. From there his business grew exponentially and it is now ranked the 20th largest chemical distributor in the United States. He was regarded as one of the most successful businessmen in Indiana, not just because of Mays Chemical, but also because of other ventures he undertook. In addition to starting Mays Chemical, he also owned The Indianapolis Recorder. In 1990 Mays purchased The Recorder, saving the newspaper. His niece, and a dear friend of mine, Carolene Mays, became general manager of The Recorder in 1998. Under Bill and Carolene's leadership The Recorder grew in readership, prominence, and credibility. The Recorder is still in circulation today. Mays also was the former majority owner of the Hoosier Radio and Television Properties, which include WAV-TV53, HOT 96.3 FM, WGGR 106.7 FM and WIRE. His business savvy was impressive, but his dedication to the community set him apart. He served on a wide variety of for-profit and non-profit boards and held many chairmanships. His list of community service honors and awards is lengthy. Just to name a few, he received the National Society of Black Engineers Golden Torch Award (2003), Indiana University's Herman B. Wells Visionaries Award (2000); Wheeler Boys & Girls Club Man and Youth Award (1998); Madame C.J. Walker Lifetime Achievement Award (1998); was inducted into the Junior Achievement Central Indiana Business Hall of Fame (1998); and had the honor of carrying the Olympic flame during its trip through Indianapolis in 1996. Mays is survived by his wife, Dr. Rose Mays, retired Associate Dean of Community Affairs at Indiana University's School of Nursing, daughters Kristin Mays-Corbitt, President of Mays Chemical, and Heather Mays-Woods, an educator. Bill was a mentor and a leader of the business community, but most importantly he was a husband and father. On many occasions Mays had said that his true passion was his family. Please join me in thanking Bill's family and friends for sharing such a wonderful man with the Hoosier community.