Jack Bergman

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, the gentleman is not only my friend and colleague but also not well enough acknowledged as the largely singular author of the Commitment to Civility by the bipartisan freshman classes in 2017. That document, unfortunately, is too well hidden. I thank you again for all the work you did because you laid it out, and it is more applicable today than it was back 4\1/2\ years ago. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my support for getting America back to work. That support, if I spoke as loud as the support that I gave, you would probably have to tone down the microphone system. As we look toward the future and to getting our economy back on track, I am increasingly concerned with the Federal Government's indiscriminate, uncalculated interference. In April, we saw the unemployment rate increase to 6.1 percent at a time when you have more ``help wanted'' signs out than you can imagine. Frankly, as I drive across my district in the beautiful part of northern Michigan where summer has just now thought about arriving, and I see all those ``help wanted'' signs hanging in the windows of countless small businesses. That number, unfortunately, comes as no surprise, given the current administration's policies. We in Congress should be thoroughly angered that with so many businesses looking for help, we instead advance policies that encourage people to stay unemployed. The expanded unemployment benefits served a positive and caring purpose when businesses were being forced to close in response to the pandemic a year ago. However, as more Americans get vaccinated, and we return to a more normal life, the need is not the same as it was in March 2020. Instead, the extra $300 a week President Biden and the Democrats gave in their latest relief bill to those who stay unemployed does little but distort the job market, disrupt our supply chains, and encourage many to simply stay home instead of finding a job. Meanwhile, the backbone of our economy, small businesses across the country, are struggling to find enough workers, despite offering competitive wages, benefits, and, in many cases, hiring bonuses. To start addressing this problem, States like Michigan should immediately end their participation in the enhanced supplemental unemployment program. The only way for us as a country to fully recover from this pandemic is by having the Federal Government stop sabotaging our economy and instead encourage Americans to get back to work. The dignity of work, of a job well done, cannot be underestimated when it comes to bolstering our citizens with a sense of faith in the future and faith in our country.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, please accept this personal explanation as I was unexpectedly detained during vote proceedings. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 143.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I thank Representative Johnson for yielding. It is an honor to be here on the floor with him tonight. Our country recognizes leadership at all levels, regardless of party ideology, and I see here on the floor real leadership, committed leadership. I rise today to express deep concern for the state of our Nation's southern border. Words matter, and it is time we start calling this situation what it really is: a crisis. In simple words, it is what it is. Don't try to paint it in many different ways. President Biden has invited this crisis through his words and in his executive actions, including terminating construction of the wall on our southern border. We need real leadership now. Now is not the time to be hiding. We need the leaders to step out and step up. It is time to put up and put out the political gamesmanship, put that all behind us and take a serious look at what is happening on the southern border. When I say a serious look, I mean that literally. Vice President Harris, let alone President Biden, has yet to visit the border since being charged with addressing the crisis there. The United States is and must always remain a free and welcoming Nation. We are all immigrants. We are immigrants by generations who came here for one of two reasons, for an opportunity or fleeing persecution. That hasn't changed. We are also, and by all standards measured, a Nation of law and order, and our laws must be followed. Madam Speaker, I urge Congress to take up critical legislation, such as Representative Andy Biggs' Stopping Border Surges Act and Representative Jeff Duncan's H.R. 88, Build up Illegal Line Defenses with Assets Lawfully Lifted Act of 2021. These bills will begin to address the root cause of our immigration issues. In addition, the bureaucracies here in D.C. can play a positive role, such as Department of Labor and DHS. They can help. Because when you look at those who seek to come here legally and work as guest workers, we can bring good people from around the world here through the H2B and H2A programs. They do not seek permanent status; they come here to work, and they go home. The bureaucracies can get involved to help good, legal immigration occur after you separate out the guest worker programs. Madam Speaker, we can secure our border, protect those wishing to come here legally, and crack down on those who wish to do us harm--and I mean, crack down on those who wish to do us harm. It is time this body gets to work to address this critical issue immediately.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Captain Jonathan Turnbull on his promotion to major in the United States Army. Captain Turnbull of Gaylord, Michigan, was deployed in Syria where he worked with local forces and nongovernmental organizations to stabilize the area and provide humanitarian assistance. On January 16, 2019, an ISIS suicide bomber forever changed the course of his life and the life of his brothers. Four Americans were killed on that day, and Jonathan received life-threatening injuries. His courage and bravery on that day and each day since has inspired countless Americans as he recovered and continued his service. Jonathan is the epitome of an American patriot and embodies the fighting spirit of our Nation's Armed Forces. He has fought for his life and his country and has truly earned this promotion to major. I speak for the entire First District when I say how proud we are of Jonathan, his service, and his commitment. I wish him, Samantha, Ian, and baby Scotty all the best in the many years to come.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the service of Gerry Pelissero, who recently retired after serving the people of Gogebic County as the clerk of court and register of deeds for more than two decades. Through his tireless work ethic and devotion to the common good, Gerry has become an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. A U.P. native, Gerry graduated from Bessemer's A.D. Johnston High School in 1977. After studying broadcasting at the Brown Institute in Minneapolis, Gerry returned to Gogebic County to become a radio personality and sports director at WUPM in Ironwood. Following his career in radio, Gerry worked as an agent with Prudential Financial for 11 years before deciding to run for county clerk in January of 2000. He would go on to win the election and serve five terms in office as clerk of court and register of deeds for Gogebic County. In this role, Gerry oversaw the modernization of the clerk's office--moving from phone calls and faxes to email and other digital technology. His dedication and leadership allowed the county's functions--including the courts and administrating elections--to run smoothly, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constituents, I ask you to join me in honoring the career and service of Gerry Pelissero. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Gerry all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Joseph A. Tormala, who was recently appointed as a National Americanism Officer for the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Through his tireless work ethic and devotion to the common good, Joe has become an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. A native Yooper, Joe served honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps through seven overseas deployments between 1983 and 2004 during the Cold War, Gulf War, and Liberation of Iraq, where he was wounded. His devotion to service continued upon his return home to Michigan, where he has been active as a member and leader of Veterans Service Organizations, including the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH). Formed in 1932, the MOPH is composed entirely of men and women who have received the Purple Heart award while serving in the Armed Forces. Their Americanism Program works with schools, churches, and other organizations to promote U.S. history and love for our country. In his role as a National Americanism Officer, Joe will help carry out this mission--ensuring future generations always remember the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform. Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constituents, I ask you to join me in recognizing Joe Tormala for his appointment as National Americanism Officer for the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Joe all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the service of Sheriff Scott Strait, who recently retired after serving the people of Mackinac County for nearly 35 years. Through his selflessness and devotion to the common good, Scott has become an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. After graduating from Lake Superior State University, Scott began his work at the Mackinac County Sheriff's Office on April 28, 1986. In his service he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those in Mackinac County and across Michigan. He also continued his professional growth while working full time, earning his Master of Public Administration from Northern Michigan University in 2001. Scott has been an active leader throughout the state, serving on multiple statewide boards and councils including the Board of Directors for the Michigan Sheriffs Association. He also served as President of the Association in 2013 and previously sat on the outreach committee of the National Sheriffs Association. He has been honored for his selflessness on multiple occasions, including earning the rank of Master Sheriff in 2019 and being named Sheriff of the Year in October of 2020. Scott's tireless dedication to the public good touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constituents, I ask you to join me in honoring the service of Scott Strait. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Scott all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Bill Speer, who retired as the publisher and editor of The Alpena News after 42 years in journalism. Through his tireless work ethic and devotion to his community, Bill has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan. After graduating from West Virginia University in 1978, Bill began his career in journalism working at The Wheeling Intelligencer, where he was initially responsible for covering local governments and the area's steel and coal industries. His skills as a writer and reporter were recognized quickly, as he was named Ohio Bureau Editor of The Intelligencer just three years later. In 1988, he and his wife Diane moved to Alpena, Michigan, where he would serve as the editor of The Alpena News. As the paper's head, Bill oversaw its transition to new ownership, the move from an evening to a morning publication, an expanded Weekend Edition, and the rise of the internet in modern journalism. Bill's dedication and effective leadership has allowed The Alpena News to thrive today. His commitment to the Alpena community and the state of Michigan touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of my constituents, I ask you to join me in recognizing the career of Bill Speer. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a dedicated leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Bill all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I was unexpectedly detained during vote proceedings. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 61, and NAY on Roll Call No. 62.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7105, the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020. I consider the word ``optimism'' to mean hope that actually includes a plan, and I have sincere optimism that the bipartisan legislative package before us today will serve as a blueprint for the great work we can achieve in the next Congress by working together. More importantly, I have confidence that it will make a positive difference in veterans' lives. For example, H.R. 7105 includes my legislation, the GI Bill Planning Act of 2019, which will give military enlistees greater ability to consider which GI Bill benefits are right for them. Just think, in the heat of the first 2 weeks of their boot camp, 70 percent of enlistees decide to pay $1,200 upfront to opt into their Montgomery GI Bill benefit, but 97 percent actually end up using the more robust post-9/11 GI Bill. By delaying this Montgomery GI Bill opt- in decision 6 months and responsibly ending new enrollment in 10 years, we will actually save recruits money and ensure they are more informed on their future education benefits. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman and the ranking member for including not only my bill but several other major measures that I have co-led to improve VA transparency in benefits decisions, as well as increase accountability in the Department's efforts to address programs that are at a high risk of waste, fraud, and abuse. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7105, and I wish Dr. Roe fair winds and following seas.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District in memory of a friend, devoted father and husband, and dedicated public servant, Senator Tom Casperson, who passed away on Sunday, November 29, after a hard-fought and courageous battle with cancer. Senator Casperson served in the Michigan Legislature for 14 years and was a fierce advocate in Lansing for our Upper Peninsula way of life. Tom was a strong and universally respected voice, confronting challenging issues head-on and working across the aisle for the benefit of his constituents. His unwavering commitment to his family, his faith, and his community is unquestionable. The entire State of Michigan is a better place because of him. To Tom's family and friends, Isaiah 41:10 says: Do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Please join me in honoring the extraordinary life of Senator Tom Casperson.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, It is my honor to recognize the life of Francis V. Egeler, who passed away recently after a lifetime of service to his fellow Michiganders. Through his extreme dedication to public service, Frank became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. Frank was born on December 28, 1963. After graduating from Traverse City Saint Francis High School in 1982, Frank spent a year working with Young Americans as a light and sound operator before studying accounting at Northwestern Michigan College. Following his education, Frank found his passion and calling in life while working on his first political campaign in 1998. This launched a twenty-two career in Michigan Republican politics, where he would go on to greatly shape the political makeup of Michigan, especially in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. His dedication, kindness, and infectious charisma made him well liked and respected by all who had the opportunity to meet him. Frank passed away on September 5, 2020. He is missed dearly by his family and friends, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations for come. Frank's tireless devotion to the public good touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Francis V. Egeler. His legacy will forever live on in his family and through the many lives he bettered through his service.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, It is my honor to recognize the life of Virgil Simon Loonsfoot ``Red Cloud'', who passed away at the age of 80 after a lifetime of service to his fellow Americans. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, Virgil became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. Virgil was born on August 17, 1940 in L'Anse, Michigan. Following his education, Virgil served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After his service, he worked as a truck driver and did maintenance for housing in Sault Sainte Marie. Virgil was a member of the Holy Name of Jesus church, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, former president of Ojibwa Seniors, and past commander of KBIC Veterans. His joys in life included fishing, watching football, enjoying the outdoors, KBIC Community Pow Wows, and serving those in his community through Veterans organizations and Toys for Tots. Virgil passed away on September 25, 2020. He is missed dearly by his family and friends, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations for come. Virgil's tireless devotion to the public good touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his life cannot be overstated. Visitation for Virgil will be held on October 1, and his funeral service will be held thereafter with traditional service with drums, committal prayers, and Baraga County Area Veterans providing military rites. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Virgil Simon Loonsfoot ``Red Cloud''. His legacy will forever live on in his family and through the countless lives he bettered through his life and service.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, Dr. Roe is right, November 15 is fast approaching here where it is the opening of deer season in Michigan, so we anxiously await that. Madam Speaker, S. 785, the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Improvement Act of 2019, will save veterans' lives, and I rise in unequivocal support of this legislation. The flame of my passion to end veteran suicide was lit long before I was elected to Congress, starting with Vietnam to the global war on terror. I would like to just take one extra opportunity to, again, welcome home my fellow veterans from Vietnam. You served your country in tough times, and we owe you that again and again for waiting so long to thank you. Because of that, in June 2019, I proudly introduced the Improve Well- Being for Veterans Act, which proposed a grant program that would allow the VA to support the nationwide network of community organizations already providing lifesaving services to local veterans and their families. And it would be effective in reaching the 60-plus percent of veterans who die by suicide but are not within the VA system of care. The goal was to try something different when the status quo was not working. That was the driver here among all of us who chose to cosponsor the Improve Act. Within a 6-month period we gained over 250 bipartisan cosponsors, gained VSO support, and welcomed VA Secretary Wilkie to testify before our committee. Now, the best possible version of this legislation lies at the heart of S. 785, which I strongly urge all of my colleagues to support. For over a decade, and despite billions of dollars spent within the VA trying their hardest, we have heard the same statistic over and over again, 20 veterans die by their own hand every day. That is why this new approach and innovative approach and a different way of looking at things, maybe from the outside in, as opposed to the inside out, is long overdue. And I am excited to stay engaged and work with the administration to ensure that it makes a difference, especially for the veterans in our rural and remote communities that are so vulnerable. You know, when you come in as a freshman--and I love to say that, being a freshman at the age of 70 a few years ago. I learned as a marine early on, you look for good leadership, and I will tell you, I found it in Dr. Roe as the Chairman of Veterans' Affairs in my first term. Madam Speaker, I just wanted to say thank you to Dr. Roe for his leadership and for dropping the gavel on time every committee hearing, because that was one of his first bits of guidance to us as a committee, and he walked the talk. I thank him for his leadership. We are going to miss him, but he is not far away, and I have his phone number. Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank the 250-plus bipartisan cosponsors, and also both the majority and the minority staffs for working so hard to make this happen, and the VSOs. I thank my co-lead Chrissy Houlahan, Senator Boozman, Chairman Moran, Ranking Member Tester, Chairman Takano, and, once again, to Dr. Roe.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life and service of John Kusmitch of Kingsford, Michigan. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, John has become an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. John enlisted in the United States Army in August of 1949 at just 18. During the Korean War, he served in the 25th Infantry Division as a motor transport operator, and was responsible for supervising and operating vehicles to transport personnel and cargo. The vital work of motor transport operators like John were the backbone of our military operations during this conflict--providing advanced mobility both on and off the battlefield. In April of 1951, John was captured by hostile forces and endured 27 months of harsh conditions as a Prisoner of War. Observed annually on the third Friday of September, National POW/MIA Recognition Day honors those who were Prisoners of War and those who are still Missing in Action in service to their nation. We owe the men and women in uniform who were captured, missing, or unaccounted for a debt which can never be repaid. By coming together to honor those who stood up to defend and to serve, the people of Michigan's First District can ensure that the service and sacrifice of those in uniform is never forgotten. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the service of John Kusmitch. Michiganders can take immense pride in knowing that the First District is home to such a selfless individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish John all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life and service of John Moddie of Iron Mountain, Michigan. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, John has become an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. John enlisted in the United States Army in 1942 directly following his graduation from Niagara High School. After completing training at Fort Sheridan, Camp Roberts, and Camp Atterbury, John was shipped overseas to Germany. He fought for three months as a part of a field artillery unit, where he and his fellow men in uniform fought to repel the last German offensive of WWII during the Battle of the Bulge. John received a shrapnel wound and was captured on December 19, 1944. His time imprisoned as a POW would expose him to the horrific and inhumane treatment by the Nazis--facing severe hunger and the near constant fear of death. John and his fellow POWs would eventually be freed as Allied forces advanced through the region. Upon return home, John married his wife, Betty, built their home in Quinnesec, MI, and started their family. Observed annually on the third Friday of September, National POW/MIA Recognition Day honors those who were Prisoners of War and those who are still Missing in Action in service to their nation. We owe the men and women in uniform who were captured, missing, or unaccounted for a debt which can never be repaid. By coming together to honor those who stood up to defend and to serve, the people of Michigan's First District can ensure that the service and sacrifice of those in uniform is never forgotten. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the service of John Moddie. Michiganders can take immense pride in knowing that the First District is home to such a selfless individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish John all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. There is no more important element of our society that the Founders guaranteed us than safety and security. I rise today in strong support of our Nation's law enforcement officers and join my colleagues in strongly condemning the recent attacks on those who serve and protect our communities. Peaceful protests have been hijacked by malevolent radical organizations like Antifa, while national political and media-driven narratives have further incited violence against the very people who patrol our streets, stop violent criminals, and keep our communities safe. That is what the blue does. It is imperative law enforcement have the means necessary to investigate who and which organizations are funding, organizing, and inciting these riots occurring in our country. As Members of Congress, it is our sworn duty to defend our Nation from enemies both foreign and domestic. While we must always protect the right to peacefully protest, it is imperative that people or entities funneling money to cause disruption and damage in peaceful communities are held accountable for their actions. Michigan's First District proudly stands with our law enforcement community, and we honor the good work that so many brave men and women do every day, keeping strong that thin blue line which defends against chaos and anarchy threatening our society. I fervently urge the Department of Justice and the FBI to take all available further action to ensure that the rioters, and especially those funneling money to them, are held accountable to the maximum extent allowable by the law.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, please accept this personal explanation as I was unavoidably detained due to my presence as the White House for the historic signing of the Abraham Accords between the United States, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. Had I been present, I would have voted: ``nay'' on rollcall No. 185 and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 186. personal explanation

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the observance of Victory over Japan (V-J) Day and the efforts of VFW Post 2356 in Hillman, Michigan. On August 15, 1945, Imperial Japan surrendered to Allied forces in the Pacific--effectively bringing an end to the hostilities of World War II. More than 150,000 American Servicemembers died in the Pacific Theater of WWII, including many Michiganders. Victory over Japan Day honors their sacrifice and celebrates the victory they helped ensure. In honor of V-J Day, VFW Post 2356 in Hillman, Michigan, hosts an annual community celebration. This celebration has been held for the past 75 years and includes a breakfast for local Veterans and parade-- making Hillman the only town in Michigan that still celebrates the occasion with a parade. By coming together to honor those who stood up to defend and to serve, the people of Michigan's First District can ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten. Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring the men and women who helped ensure victory in the Pacific Theater of World War II, and in thanking the Hillman VFW Post 2356 for its efforts to ensure their sacrifice and devotion to our nation is never forgotten.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my name be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 3010.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Vote No. 167, I am not recorded because I was not present in the House. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 167.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all veterans living rurally and remotely, I rise in support of my amendment included in this en bloc package. The amendment focuses additional efforts within the Veterans Health Administration Office of Rural Health on solutions that will bring more connectivity to veterans living in rural and remote areas. My district features not just rural but remote communities where many veterans are unable to access high-speed broadband. The coronavirus has only further highlighted this digital divide. The VA and Congress proactively responded to the pandemic with increased telehealth resources for veterans. This is a crucial and critical step, but what good is it for the veterans who don't have access to broadband in the first place? We need to keep our Nation's promises to all veterans, including those living in rural and remote communities. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the life of Harvey William Sexton, who passed away at the age of 87 after a lifetime of service to his fellow Americans. Through his extreme courage and selflessness, Harvey became an indispensable part of the state of Michigan. Harvey was born on August 12, 1932. After completing 11th grade at Brethren High School, Harvey enlisted in the United States Army to fight in the Korean War. There he served with distinction in the Armored Tank Division, earning the Army Occupation Medal for Japan, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal for Korea, and four Bronze Stars--including one for Valorous Service. At 18 he was promoted to corporal, and at 20 he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, Harvey married his wife Marla in July of 1953. The two of them would go on to raise a family of eight children. Harvey passed away on April 17, 2020. He is missed dearly by his family and friends, and his legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations to come. Harvey's tireless devotion to the public good touched the lives of countless Michiganders, and the impact of his work cannot be overstated. Madam Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's First Congressional District, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Harvey William Sexton. His legacy will forever live on in his family and through the countless lives he bettered through his service.

Mr. BERGMAN

Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of my amendment included in this en bloc package. My amendment would create a cyberattack exception to the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act to remove the immunity of foreign states-- including foreign officials, employees, or agents--with regard to money damages sought by a national of the United States for personal injury, harm to reputation, or damage to or loss of property resulting from cyberattacks. The Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act was passed in the seventies before anyone could fathom what our technology capabilities would be today, and under that law, if a foreign national commits a cyberattack against a U.S. citizen, our citizen has no legal recourse here in the U.S. to defend themselves. With this blanket immunity, our adversaries in North Korea, Russia, and China have a free hand to attack Americans from the comfort of their own homes without consequence. For decades, foreign governments have been using cyberattacks to influence politics and policy in our country. Now, in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, we have this hacking activity ramp up against U.S. medical institutions and vaccine development. We can't sit back and do nothing. It is time for Congress to update its laws to reflect modern technology and modern national security threats.

Mr. BERGMAN. Mr. Speaker, I oppose this amendment. It would require the President and the Secretary of Defense to certify to Congress with demonstrable evidence that a State is unwilling or unable to suppress civil unrest prior to invoking the Insurrection Act. What is demonstrable evidence? How do we define that? At that point, who knows how much time would go by before help is given to the city or State that needs it. Also, the limitation placed on military personnel in this amendment is concerning. We are telling our military that, if you go in, then you either do nothing or you use extreme force. There is no in between. Unfortunately, too many elected officials don't understand the difference between emergency response, peacekeeping, and peacemaking. We are setting the military up for failure. This amendment is dangerous and unnecessary, not to mention the entire debate on the Insurrection Act is just another attack on the President. Because we don't like something the current President said--not even what he did, but something he said--we are going to punish not just this President, but every President after this and all the States that may need help in the future. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.