Mike Bishop

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 106th National Day of the Republic of Taiwan (China), or the ``Double- Ten'' celebration. Since the signing of the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), the United States and Taiwan have forged a strong partnership based on our shared values of democracy, freedom, and rule of law. Over the years, Taiwan's economy has developed into one of the most innovative and advanced in the world. Taiwan has also proved itself to be a model of democracy in the Asia-Pacific region. The relationship between Taiwan and the United States is particularly strong when it comes to trade between the two countries, having created roughly half- a-million jobs in the United States. Taiwan's role and importance as a trading partner with the United States continues to grow every day. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to further strengthening our relationship to create even more prosperity for our two countries. I stand ready to work with this administration in order to do so.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Madam Chair, I thank Chairman Smith for yielding and for his hard work and leadership on this matter. Madam Chair, I rise today to support H.R. 2824, which would reauthorize the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. At its core, MIECHV improve the lives of families in at-risk communities, focusing on the first years of a child's life. Like the chairman, I, too, have seen firsthand its successes. I recently traveled to a Nurse-Family Partnership facility, which is a nonprofit that arranges home visits from registered nurses to low- income, first-time mothers. I had the opportunity to meet the nurses and the women who currently are enrolled in the program. NFP facilities transform the lives of vulnerable first-time moms and their babies, empowering them to build brighter futures and stronger families, none of which would be possible without MIECHV funding. I am proud to note that, like my previous speaker, my home State of Michigan has already taken the initiative to invest significant funding for the NFP facilities and other organizations, in addition to MIECHV funds, to the extent that Michigan would now already meet the requirement proposed in the bill. I am particularly thankful for the chairman's transparent engagement process within the committee, specifically, early on. I raised the concern that the addition of new evidence standards, along with substantial evidence standards already in place, might be problematic, and I wanted to ensure that home visitors were not overly burdened by data collecting so that they can care for the mothers and the babies. Both of these concerns were addressed with the amendments contained in the chairman's amendment, and I want to thank Chairman Smith and Chairman Brady for their leadership in addressing these concerns and other concerns. I want to thank the chairman for all of his hard work, and I want to join him and my colleagues in supporting H.R. 2824.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, today I rise about something near and dear to my heart. It is Patriot Week, which is going on this week. In 2009, while I served in the Michigan Senate, we became the first legislative body to recognize Patriot Week. Since then, five States and countless private organizations have participated in celebrating the great Americans and our founding documents that ensure the cause of liberty. Sadly, American history is no longer a priority for our schools, and, as a result, we are now raising a generation, for the most part, who have no understanding or appreciation for our country's brave Founding Fathers and our profoundly important founding documents. That is why I introduced H. Con. Res. 12 which encourages schools, government agencies, and private employers to pay tribute to great Americans from George Washington to Martin Luther King, Jr., during Patriot Week. It celebrates our values enshrined in the United States Constitution and other founding documents from equal protection under the law to limited government, and it commemorates important events like the passage of the United States Constitution in 1787. Patriot Week begins September 11 by honoring the brave men and women who died in the September 11 attack, and it ends September 17, our Constitution Day, by honoring those who risked everything to create our great Republic. Mr. Speaker, we must take time to reflect. President Reagan once said: ``Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.'' We must do our part to preserve what makes this Nation great before it is too late. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Patriot Week resolution.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and congratulate Crittenton Hospital as we commemorate its 50th anniversary in the Rochester, Michigan, community. Over the past 50 years, Crittenton Hospital has faithfully dedicated itself to serving the Rochester area community and all of its citizens. Since opening its doors in 1967, Crittenton Hospital has expanded to meet the needs of a growing community while keeping pace with advances in healthcare technology and modern approaches to medicine. The longevity enjoyed by Crittenton Hospital is a testament to its unique and enduring impact on our community. Its dedication to our residents ensures that Crittenton Hospital will continue to serve and care for patients for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Crittenton Hospital's 50th anniversary. I thank Crittenton Hospital for its commitment to the people it serves and to our entire Rochester area community.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 3178, the Medicare Part B Improvement Act. This bill would make specific improvements to Medicare Part B programs, like protecting access to orthotics and prosthetics for Medicare beneficiaries who need them. In particular, a provision within this bill, spearheaded by Representative GT Thompson, Mike Thompson, and myself, would allow additional information provided by prosthetists and orthotists--the trained clinical experts who evaluate and fit the beneficiary--to be considered by Medicare to support documentation of medical necessity for orthotics and prosthetics. This straightforward, bipartisan bill will improve the quality of life of beneficiaries, save jobs of orthotic and prosthetic suppliers, and provide a foundation to better meet the healthcare needs of our aging constituents. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3178, the Medicare Part B improvement Act.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an inspirational constituent and friend in my district, Sharon Lollio. Sharon is working tirelessly to plan a Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Monument in our capital city of Lansing. This is important because Michigan remains one of the last States to have a law enforcement memorial, and Sharon is making it her mission to see that this important project does not fall by the wayside by raising awareness to the issue of violence against law enforcement and the importance of honoring the fallen through a permanent memorial in Michigan's Eighth District. Once constructed, the memorial will be a place of quiet refuge for Michigan residents to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by the men and women who keep us safe. We have lost many Michigan officers in the line of duty over the last few years, and we owe it to them, their families and friends, and the entire law enforcement community to honor them with this special tribute. Mr. Speaker, I commend Sharon Lollio for her hard work raising the funds and awareness for the Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Monument. I thank Sharon for her enduring commitment to our men and women in blue and their loved ones. I am grateful to all those who put their lives on the line to protect our community.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Thornberry for his leadership on this matter. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was formed in the ashes of World War II, bringing decades of considerable peace and prosperity. Still, there are powers today that wish to challenge the order from which millions throughout the world have benefited. My amendment to the NDAA, amendment No. 98, is a straightforward and simple amendment. It would call on all NATO allies to fulfill their mutual defense commitments, secure national and regional security interests, and recognize our NATO allies who are achieving those objectives. The underlying bill takes steps to strengthen our national defense on many fronts. It improves our overseas contingency operations, provides significant resources to rebuild our military, and increases funding for initiatives to deter Russian aggression. My amendment builds upon those principles. As we begin to rebuild our military capability, it is time for our allies to do the same, especially when it pertains to our NATO alliance. For far too long, the United States has shared an unequal financial burden in contributing to the global and regional security that NATO provides. With new challenges from an increasing belligerent Russian state, instability across the Middle East and North Africa, and emerging cybersecurity threats, it is time for all allies to honor their commitment and invest in defense spending. In order for NATO to be completely effective, all NATO members must meet their GDP commitment for defense spending and investment. This is out of fairness--for our effort to evenly share this responsibility and fairness to American taxpayers. My amendment calls on the President to demand that our NATO allies honor their mutual defense commitment they agreed to by committing 2 percent of their gross domestic product to defense spending and research and to secure their national and regional security interests. Only 5 of 29 member nations currently honor these commitments. While 24 NATO members fail to meet their NATO commitment, my amendment also recognizes the few NATO allies who actually achieve those objectives. Full commitment from our NATO allies will make a notable difference in our effort to achieve peace around the globe. We must share equally the necessary burden of peace through strength.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an inspirational organization in my district, Habitat for Humanity of Livingston County, located in the Eighth District of Michigan. This July, Livingston County's Habitat for Humanity is celebrating its 25th year of transforming lives by building quality homes. Habitat for Humanity was incorporated within Livingston County in 1992, and since then, the organization is dedicated to many community and international service projects. Over the past 25 years, Habitat for Humanity has made a positive impact on Livingston County, constructing and rehabilitating 18 homes for families in need within the community. Livingston County's Habitat for Humanity also supports the services of Habitat International in its fight against homelessness across the world, providing monetary donations which funded and constructed an additional 15 homes worldwide. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Livingston County's Habitat for Humanity for its 25 years of service. Thank you, Habitat for Humanity, for your commitment to the people you serve and to our entire Livingston County community.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, we need to get back to the core values that our Nation embraced 241 years ago. That is why this year I have reintroduced my Patriot Week resolution, H. Con. Res. 12, which creates a national week of appreciation for the brave individuals, documents, and values that define our Nation's history to be taught in schools and honored in workplaces across America. Patriot Week would begin on the solemn anniversary of September 11 and end with Constitution Day on September 17. Mr. Speaker, our founding principles have been ignored and eroded. Society has seemingly lost interest in the longstanding history that made our country great. As we approach Independence Day, we must reflect on who we are as a nation and how we can improve what is good for generations to come. America has become too divided, and we must get back to the core values that make our country great. Just as immigrants learn the history of our country, high school seniors should be able to pass, at minimum, the same citizenship exam upon graduation. Ronald Reagan once said that ``freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.'' His words must serve as a wake-up call to every one of us today. I urge my colleagues to support Patriot Week, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish our Nation a happy and safe Independence Day. We are grateful for all those who serve to keep us safe at home, in our Nation's Capital, and all over the world.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Phil Bertolini of Oakland County, Michigan, for his induction into the prestigious National Chief Information Officer Hall of Fame. Recognized for his outstanding contributions to his field, Mr. Bertolini was selected as one of only nineteen inductees for the Class of 2017. This award is a testament to Mr. Bertolini's unparalleled ingenuity, his unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, and his dedication throughout twelve years of service to Oakland County. Since becoming the head of Oakland County's IT department, Mr. Bertolini's application of new innovative technologies revolutionized the function of county government. Incorporating programs designed to increase government efficiency and communication, Mr. Bertolini and his team has received numerous honors and awards for their work. In 2012, he was recognized as a White House Champion of Change and has even had the opportunity to travel abroad as part of the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Dedicated to the people of Oakland County, Mr. Bertolini has built his career on his devotion to serving others, and, understanding the responsibility and leadership required, he did not waiver in taking on this important Chief Information Officer role on behalf of his fellow citizens. Mr. Bertolini's induction into the Chief Information Officer Hall of Fame is a great honor for not only him, but Oakland County and the great State of Michigan. He should be seen as an example of an ideal public servant, one who puts the needs of his community before his own. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my utmost gratitude and congratulations to Mr. Bertolini as his hard work, service, and outstanding performance receives the nationwide recognition that it deserves.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to a national victim's compensation issue that must be treated with the urgency it deserves. Nearly one year ago, because of the work of the Members of this body, $40 million was made available to a victim's compensation program for people who had contracted fungal meningitis as a result of tainted NECC steroid injections distributed in 2012, which resulted in convictions with multiple people. That money was delivered to the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office 9 months ago, yet not a single claim has been paid. Mr. Speaker, these victims, many of whom are from my district, need justice. We are nearing the 5-year mark of this terrible outbreak, and families across America need this Congress to continue to fight for them. Against their own will, they became victims of this terrible tragedy, and they certainly do not need to also be victims of more bureaucratic red tape. Enough is enough. It is time to use these funds we secured and start compensating these victims. I stand ready, willing, and able to help in any way I can, but I urge the officials in Massachusetts to treat this matter like the priority it truly is.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. I am grateful for this opportunity to speak on my bipartisan, bicameral bill, H.R. 1393, the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act. Madam Speaker, the 10th Amendment gives States the freedom to set their own public policy. It is important, however, that they do so in a way that does not infringe upon the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution, which gives jurisdiction over interstate commerce to Congress. With our constitutional mandate in mind, at a time of rapid expansion in our workforce and an increasingly global and mobile economy, it is incumbent upon Congress to simplify and ease the complex burden that is imposed on interstate commerce activity. In my 25 years as an attorney and a small-business owner, I am uniquely aware of the task of complying with the complexities of the various State income taxes, especially when you travel to another State for business. The burden to comply is a particular burden to small businesses, as well as their employees, because they simply do not have the resources and cannot absorb the compliance costs. As a result, the current tax framework puts smaller businesses, the very backbone of our economy, at a substantial competitive disadvantage relative to larger businesses. And complex reporting requirements punish the employees, too. The time and overall expenses that result from filing all of this paperwork is overwhelming, and, in many cases, financially devastating. It is all because they had the audacity to work outside of their home State. Rather than driving profits back into their businesses and community by expanding payrolls and reducing the price of consumer goods, businesses are being forced to spend their hard-earned, scarce resources on complying with a menagerie of convoluted and ridiculous State income tax laws. While crafting this legislation in committee, we heard a lot of anecdotal information and a lot of personal testimonials. In fact, we heard firsthand testimony from an employee, indicating that his employer had to file over 10,000 W-2s on behalf of their numerous employees, primarily because they had crossed State lines for work. He went on to tell us one of his coworkers had to file 50 W-2s--that is 50 W-2s--just for himself. That didn't make sense to us, and it certainly doesn't make sense to most Americans. Imagine an individual, making less than $50,000 a year, having to file 10, 20, or even 50 W-2s. It is ridiculous, and it is unacceptable. Madam Speaker, I am an ardent defender of the United States Constitution--in particular, the 10th Amendment--which delegates authority not granted to the Federal Government, to the States. That said, the Constitution gives plenary jurisdiction to Congress relative to the regulation of interstate commerce, under Article I, section 8. It is, therefore, as in this case, the constitutional responsibility of Congress to identify and respond to an increasingly mobile and global economy and relieve it of unnecessary burdensome compliance requirements resulting from a patchwork of unique State income tax laws. And that is why many groups that advocate on behalf of States, such as the American Legislative Exchange Council, agree with this legislation, because H.R. 1393 is the type of simple and streamlined interstate commerce regulation Congress should be enacting. In fact, there are more than 300 outside organizations that have encouraged support of this bill. With the help of my colleague, Hank Johnson, on the other side of the aisle, our Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act is a carefully crafted, bipartisan, and bicameral measure that streamlines State income tax laws across the Nation. It creates a uniform threshold, giving nonresidents 30 days to work in another State without being liable for that State's income tax. This simple and straightforward language ensures employees will have a clear understanding of their tax liability, and it gives employers a clear and consistent rule so that they can plan and accurately predict their tax liability, knowing the same rule applies for all States with an income tax. It also means much less paperwork and reduced compliance costs for both States and businesses and their employees. The goal of H.R. 1393 is to protect our mobile workers, and that includes traveling emergency workers and first responders; trade union workers; nonprofit staff; teachers; Federal, State, and local government employees; and much more. Any organization that has employees who cross State lines for temporary periods will benefit from this law. I would also note that great care was taken with this bill to diminish the impact on State revenues. You heard testimony earlier relative to its impact on State governments. In fact, a 2015 study by Ernst & Young found that H.R. 1393 would actually raise State income tax revenues, while other States would only see a de minimis change. With that said, I would like to take this time to thank all of the members of the Mobile Workforce Coalition who support our bill; Chairman Goodlatte and his world class staff for all of their work; my 57 colleagues who cosponsored this in the House; as well as Senator Thune, Senator Brown, and nearly half of the United States Senate who have cosponsored our companion bill. Madam Speaker, as Congress continues to work on comprehensive tax reform to jump start our economy and to provide relief for American families and businesses, the Mobile Workforce State Income Tax Simplification Act is a great start to streamline the Tax Code and roll back unnecessary and costly administrative burdens. With so much red tape interwoven in today's Tax Code, this bill is a commonsense way to cut through the clutter and simplify part of the filing process moving forward. Together, we can make our workforce the priority and help our small businesses grow and prosper. Madam Speaker, I strongly encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 1393.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank our brave servicemen and -women who have put their lives on the line every day to protect us. Since the founding of our Nation, millions of Americans have proudly served and sacrificed in preservation of our democracy. Our veterans have paid a tremendous price to defend our freedom, yet leaving the battlefield does not always mean their battles are over. It is, therefore, our duty as a nation to ensure that our servicemembers are properly and respectfully cared for when they return home. Our veterans are real-life heroes living quietly among us. They are the patriots who were willing to give up everything--everything they had--for their God, their country, and for one another. The Holy Scripture tells us, in John 15:13: ``Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'' This weekend, let's call to mind all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. It is because of their valor, strength, and bravery that I stand here before you today. They selflessly put their lives on the line to fight for us, and I am proud to continue fighting for them. Our men and women of the military represent the very best of America. On behalf of Michigan's Eighth Congressional District, we are eternally grateful for their service. Happy and safe Memorial Day weekend.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Goodlatte for his great work in bringing this matter forward. Mr. Speaker, protection of children is not a partisan matter, and I am grateful to the committee, committee staff, and Chairman Goodlatte for his leadership in this matter and bringing this forward. With school ending and summer camp starting, this is the time to bring awareness to and pass the Child Protection Improvements Act. Every year, millions of people work with or volunteer to help our children wherever they are as camp counselors, local youth sports coaches, mentors. You name it. All across America, there are organizations where people can make a difference in the lives of our Nation's youth, and our children can absolutely benefit from these programs. Take the Boys and Girls Clubs, MENTOR, or the YMCA, just to name a few. These groups and dozens of others, which exist virtually in all of our districts, have come to the gentleman from California (Mr. Schiff) and to me asking for help. Just like any parent, they too want to ensure that people working with our kids are decent, with clean backgrounds and good intentions. Mr. Speaker, that is where Congress comes in. We have a duty to ensure every youth-serving organization in America can afford and access the best background checks on staff and volunteers so they can properly vet people who might have traveled across State lines. This means utilizing the FBI's gold-standard database. Shockingly enough, not every organization has the option today, but we have the ability to change that. The Child Protection Improvements Act would allow all youth-serving organizations to utilize the FBI fingerprint-based background checks. We are simply eliminating the red tape that prevents the access in some of these States so every organization can adequately look out for our children, no matter where they live. For those who are justifiably concerned about the cost, it should also be noted that the CPIA is fiscally responsible, as it does not authorize any new spending. The program will be supported by fees assessed for background checks by the requesting nonprofit organizations. Mr. Speaker, every kid deserves a childhood where they can explore, grow, and do fun things beyond the walls of their home and school. As a father of three myself, I ask my colleagues to support this commonsense measure to catch potential threats and keep our kids safe.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of World War II veteran, noted author, and longtime Eighth Congressional District resident Donald Burgett, who recently passed away at the age of 81. Don was an Army paratrooper, and he participated in the opening operations of the Normandy invasion with A Company, 506th Parachute Infantry of the 101st Airborne Division. After his service, Mr. Burgett published four books, including ``Currahee!'' published in 1967 and endorsed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Mr. Burgett used his photographic memory to paint vivid scenes during the chaos of war. In addition to his writing, he also was an active member of several veterans organizations, including the VFW, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, and the Military Order of the Cooties. He was a local builder and loved spending time outdoors. Don is survived by his wife, Twyla, his 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and 28 great-grandchildren. A memorial is being held for him this week in his honor in his hometown of Howell, Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask for a moment of silence for this great American patriot. May God bless Don and his family.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the American Health Care Act, and I want to thank the chairman for his leadership on this measure. Mr. Speaker, I came to Washington, D.C., to make a difference. When it comes to health care, it is readily apparent that ObamaCare does not work for most Americans. We know for a fact, as we are standing here today, that the current system is collapsing upon itself. Our Nation has endured 7 long years of this mess, and today we have the obligation and the responsibility to act. I have heard many critics of this proposal, but I was raised to do what is right, to be a part of the solution, and not sit idly by on my hands as a spectator and watch Rome burn. I came to Congress to make a difference, to find solutions to the many issues that vex our country. I came here to reduce the size and scope of an unwieldy government, to get government out of the way of everyday citizens. I came here to address spending, a $20 trillion debt in this country, to bring back free-market principles. I came here to defend the Constitution and our founding principles, and turn power back to the States and to the people. All that said, every single one of these principles can be found in this bill. The American Health Care Act reduces spending and cuts the taxes that have strangled businesses and individuals for the last 7 years. It represents the first real entitlement reform in the 52-year history of Medicaid. It deletes Federal mandates that rob citizens of their individual liberty. Mr. Speaker, this bill may not be perfect, but it is a dramatic step in the right direction. And before I am lectured as to unsubstantiated facts and fear tactics as to how this is going to impact my State, I would suggest to you that 420,000 Michiganders eligible for Medicare said ``thanks, but no thanks'' to the broken promise of affordable health care. And that is why, Mr. Speaker, I am going to vote for this bill, and I would ask my colleagues to support it.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 60.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of a true leader and friend, Betsy DeVos, for the nomination of Secretary of Education. By far and away, Betsy DeVos is the ideal candidate to guide our Nation's education policies. For three decades, she has been focused on making sure all of our Nation's children have access to quality education, particularly for the disenfranchised and those in real need. The Associated Press recently ran a piece highlighting West Michigan Aviation Academy and the tremendous difference the school is making in the lives of the children in Michigan. Betsy DeVos had her hand in that process, as she has in so many of the other schools across western Michigan. Mr. Speaker, being from Michigan myself, I have seen firsthand what Betsy DeVos has done for education in Michigan. She understands the important role of public schools in the K-12 system, but also believes that competition, school choice, and parental control will help drive success in all schools to ensure that all children are receiving the best possible education, no matter their circumstances. I hope to work with my friends on the other side of the Capitol. And I hope, during this time before the Senate committee considers Ms. DeVos' nomination, that the rest of the Nation will hear of the great things that Betsy DeVos has done and see how qualified she is for this job.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his continued leadership and for the opportunity to rise today to join him and this group in this urgent discussion regarding solutions for our Nation's healthcare crisis. I do appreciate the opportunity to be with my colleagues tonight and the sense of urgency that I feel from this group to address a very important issue. Mr. Speaker, since the 2,700-page healthcare law was enacted in 2010, when our colleague from across the aisle absurdly rose and declared that we would know what was in it as soon as we passed it, young adults, families, and seniors have been punished and their policies canceled. We have seen skyrocketing costs, poor coverage and, clearly, a lack of choices. I hear from constituents every single day who say that the law has not made health care more affordable, as President Obama promised it would. Instead, healthcare insurance premiums have skyrocketed and are slated to increase again and again and again--significantly--regardless of what Congress is able to do about the law this year. In fact, those who currently have a plan can expect an average premium increase of 73 percent, while individuals who are just joining will see a 96 percent increase in premiums. Job providers are getting smothered as well. Prior to joining Congress, I was a member of the private sector, and I can tell you firsthand that small businesses are cutting hours. They are letting go of workers. All of these things they are doing to make room for the ever-expanding healthcare law. It is preventing the economy--small business, which is the backbone of our economy--from growing to its fullest potential. For all of these reasons, 8 out of every 10 Americans now favor changing ObamaCare significantly or replacing it altogether. What we do know is that doing nothing is not an option. Leaving this alone will result in further costs, further struggles by our families and small businesses, and we will see this whole healthcare law collapse upon itself. I do not believe and I don't think my colleagues believe here today that doing nothing is an option. Last year in Michigan, deductibles went up an average of $492 across all bronze, silver, and gold plans. This year our exchange rates will jump 17 percent in the State of Michigan. Families have a budget just like everybody else and they simply cannot absorb that kind of cost increase. Complicating matters further, insurers like UnitedHealth Group are leaving the exchanges. Private practices are folding and doctors are being forced to retire because they can't financially stay afloat. I can tell you, from a personal perspective in my own family, I have seen my doctor disappear recently this past year. Seemingly overnight, he retired and moved away because he could not keep up with the costs of staying in business as a private practitioner. I had a rheumatologist in my district. He is a very well-respected man who treats many rheumatoid patients in our district. It is a very sad fact. These people count on him every single day of the week. They have been forced out of his practice because they no longer fit into the network. He is forced with compliance costs--overwhelming compliance costs. He has to hire new people to cover the compliance requirements. He doesn't have the same reimbursement rates. After all is said and done, a private practitioner, a specialist like this, can no longer stay in business; and families like ours, people like you and like me, can no longer continue to have that relationship, that doctor-patient relationship, that very personal relationship that we have had for years. These are real people, doctors, but also families and small businesses in our local communities that are struggling to stay financially afloat. The end result is we are losing good doctors because of the failures of ObamaCare. Mr. Speaker, when a law has unintended consequences, Congress has an obligation to step up and make things right. In 2017, this will require a collaborative, bipartisan approach to address the issue. This is about finding a pain-free way to move forward with health care in our Nation to ensure our neighbors and our families don't have to struggle to make ends meet because of failed law. We must act, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank Chairman Walker for his continued support and his continued leadership on this important issue.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Section 4: ``The Congress may by law provide for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the House of Representatives may choose a President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them, and for the case of the death of any of the persons from whom the Senate may choose a Vice President whenever the right of choice shall have devolved upon them.'' Section 5: ``Sections 1 and 2 shall take effect on the 15th day of October following the ratification of this article.'' Section 6: ``This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by the legislatures of three-fourths of the several States within seven years from the date of its submission.'' Amendment XXI, section 1: ``The 18th Article of amendment to the Constitution of the United States is hereby repealed.'' Section 2: ``The transportation or importation into any State, Territory, or possession of the United States for delivery or use therein of intoxicating liquors, in violation of the laws thereof, is hereby prohibited.'' Section 3: ``This article shall be inoperative unless it shall have been ratified as an amendment to the Constitution by conventions in the several States, as provided in the Constitution, within seven years from the date of the submission hereof to the States by the Congress.''

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Goodlatte for all of his leadership on this matter. I rise today in strong support of H.R. 26, the REINS Act, which will restore the constitutional authority of Congress and rein in runaway government. Mr. Chairman, as we have seen over the last 8 years, our economy has been strangled by Federal regulations which are burying small businesses and families. Federal regulations imposed on America's job creators and households created a staggering economic burden of almost $2 trillion in 2014. That is almost $15,000 per U.S. household, and 11.5 percent of America's real GDP. But today, the House has an opportunity to cut through the red tape and restore the balance of powers. Economic growth cannot happen from Washington, D.C., it can only come from Main Street. That is why I adamantly oppose unelected and unaccountable bureaucrats issuing their own closed-door regulations in place of congressional regulations. The REINS Act will restore Congress' Article I powers and give a voice back to the American people. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for H.R. 26.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize JoAnn Van Tassel of Lake Orion. She has devoted her life to selfless acts to benefit others and is being recognized as 2016 Citizen of the Year by the Orion Area Parade Group. JoAnn has been a champion in the community by always supporting local events and important causes. She is active with many agencies, including the North Oakland Community Coalition and the Downtown Development Authority. Among her many charitable acts, JoAnn has organized fundraising events to help those in need and cleans up our roadways to ensure that our community stays beautiful. While serving as Orion Township supervisor for 13 years, JoAnn has dedicated countless hours to improving the Lake Orion community. Her generosity has touched the lives of many, and her efforts will have a profound impact on generations to come. So, thank you to JoAnn Van Tassel for making the Lake Orion community a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Your generous contributions have not gone unnoticed.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the students of University of Detroit Jesuit High School. They love this country, and they found a special way to pay tribute to our veterans. Young men and women of University of Detroit Jesuit are volunteering their time to serve as pallbearers for homeless veterans at Great Lakes National Cemetery in my district, the final resting place for local military members who don't have families and are typically buried alone. The students have never met these veterans, but they have a genuine sense of patriotism and gratitude for what they have done for our country. Their mission is simple: to give the proper burial that every veteran--every person--deserves. Mr. Speaker, when no one else came forward, these young men and women stepped up to say thank you. Our district, our State, our country could not be more proud. Our veterans are the backbone of what makes this Nation great, and we owe them the deepest respect and gratitude, even at the end of their journey. So thank you to our men and women of the military, and thank you to the young men and women of University of Detroit Jesuit for honoring their service to our Nation.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to a fallen Wayne State University Police K9 Officer Collin Rose, who died in the line of duty on Tuesday, November 22, 2016. Officer Rose was a man of the community, who visited schools and trained police dogs. He was a Ferris State University Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Academy graduate. And tragically, Officer Rose became the fifth officer to be shot in the United States in a matter of days. It is completely unacceptable. This trend of violence and murder against the very people who serve and protect us, there are no words. It must stop. These brave men and women in uniform are more than their occupation. They are husbands, they are wives, they are brothers, and sisters. They are our children. In Officer Rose's case, he was somebody's fiance, preparing to get married in less than a year from now. As much as we think that their job is to protect us, it is our job to ensure their safety as well. Our communities must work with the police to open dialogue and voice concerns peacefully. Every single American must respect our police and men and women in uniform. Please join me today in praying for Officer Rose's family, friends, and the entire Wayne State Police Force during this time of tragedy. His life and legacy will never be forgotten.

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan

Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Taiwan's participation in the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assembly next Tuesday, September 27, 2016. Taiwan is a good friend to the United States. Our shared values include respect for market institutions, democracy, free elections, and human rights. In 2013, Congress passed H.R. 1151, which became Public Law 113-17. This law called for Taiwan's participation in the triennial International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) assembly as an observer. With wide international support, Taiwan was indeed able to attend, and observe, the 38th ICAO Assembly. This year, I hope to again see Taiwan included in the Assembly. To highlight the importance, I would like to quote an article by Stanley Kao, Representative of TECRO in the United States, for Taiwan's participation in ICAO. ``Taiwan needs to be part of ICAO because it is an indispensable player in global aviation safety. The Taipei Flight Information Region (FIR), which is administered by Taiwan's Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA), covers 180,000 nm and borders four other FIRs: Fukuoka, Manila, Hong Kong and Shanghai. In 2015, Taiwan's CAA provided over 1.53 million instances of air traffic control services and handled 58 million incoming and outgoing passengers.'' ``Despite its location in the busiest section of airspace in East Asia, Taiwan's CAA has had no direct access to ICAO for the past 40 years and has only indirectly gained information, in some cases incomplete, on ICAO regulations and standards related to safety, management, security and environmental protection. The CAA has had to resort to various informal channels to keep up with the development of ICAO's regulations and standards and overcome the difficulties associated with a lack of transparency in order to maintain adequate safety levels and service standards in the Taipei FIR. The CAA has had to make an extra effort to keep abreast of constant updates to flight safety and security standards set by ICAO. Obtaining that information often has been a costly and drawn-out process.'' As East Asia's busiest airspace, it not only makes sense that Taiwan should have access to the latest technologies and standards in civil aviation safety; it is a matter of public safety. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge the international community to allow Taiwan to partake in the upcoming ICAO assembly.