Susan Collins

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, In 1851, 31 years after Maine became the 23rd State of the Union, the small, agricultural town of Chelsea was incorporated. Chelsea, named after the town of Chelsea, MA, is known for its peaceful community, with a strong sense of pride in its history. From its humble beginnings to a thriving agricultural center, Chelsea remains a true treasure of central Maine. The first settlers were farmers, and their fierce determination and hard work made Chelsea an agricultural force. Chelsea became the largest produce market in the county, with apples from the town's sizable orchard a leading fare. By 1856, the first cider mill had been built. In addition, Chelsea shipped more wool than anywhere else in the State during the last half of the 19th century. Chelsea has also played an important role in honoring those who serve our country. The Togus Veterans Hospital, established by President Abraham Lincoln, was the first Federal facility dedicated to providing care for America's heroes. In its long history, the facility cared for veterans from the American Civil War to the present day. Thanks to its strategic location on the beautiful Kennebec River, Chelsea served as a significant site in our country's fight for independence during the Revolutionary War. More than 1,000 soldiers followed the Kennebec River north during Benedict Arnold's Quebec Expedition in 1775, using Chelsea as a key staging area to plan and prepare for the long journey. Aside from the Togus Veterans Hospital, perhaps the building with the greatest historical significance is the Chelsea Grange Hall. Built in 1914, the Grange Hall symbolizes Chelsea's rural heritage and is a place where an organized effort is made to bring people together for good times and to orient the community around family and friendship. Chelsea's history and its continued service to this Nation make it an absolute pearl of our State. The town of Chelsea has a proud legacy of service, resilience, and close-knit community spirit woven into the heart of rural Maine. Maine has long played a role in the guidance and leadership of our great Nation. The town of Chelsea, by her safeguarding of our Nation's heroes and her place in our revolutionary history, leads the State of Maine into a future of continued service to neighbors and Nation.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise to urge my colleagues to end the reckless Democratic shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security. This shutdown has caused chaos at our airports, delayed assistance to communities hit by disasters, and forced thousands of essential frontline employees at TSA, at the Coast Guard, and at the Cybersecurity Agency to work without any guarantee of when they will be paid. More than 50,000 TSA agents and officers who help keep us safe are currently working without pay, with many forced to find second or new jobs to make ends meet. Some are so discouraged that they have quit. Over the weekend, we saw security lines at some American airports stretch for more than 3 hours as the result of TSA's staffing shortage. And what is the Democratic response? According to one Democratic Senator, they are ``very serene with what is going on.'' How can you be serene when you have increased the danger to the United States of contraband being smuggled into this country or a terrorist attack occurring or illegal substances being smuggled into our airports? I don't like to be partisan, but the fact is the American people need to know that the Democrats created this chaos when they walked away from the bipartisan, fully negotiated DHS funding bill and then blocked repeated Republican attempts to pass a short-term funding measure to prevent these disruptions that are so harmful both to our country, security, and to the employees while the negotiations continue. They claim that they need meaningful policy changes to support fully funding the Department, but their approach to resolving this impasse has been characterized by a lack of urgency and a lack of seriousness. We are nearly a month into the shutdown of this vital Department. And today--today--marks 2 weeks of the Senate Democratic leadership sitting on what is a good-faith offer from the White House to end the shutdown. Democrats have even rebuffed entreaties from Senate Republican negotiators to meet to bridge the differences between the two sides, to discuss the White House offer, which believe me, answers many of the concerns that have been raised, without endangering our law enforcement officers. Instead, they have put forward a bill that takes the bipartisan measure that we negotiated in January and completely strips the funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection. Now, while defunding ICE and CBP may resonate well with far-left activists, it is not a serious public policy solution. I want to take a moment to highlight some of the work that ICE and CBP do, which goes far beyond immigration enforcement and helps to keep our country safe. More than a quarter of ICE's annual appropriated budget is for Homeland Security Investigations. They are referred to as HSI. Let me explain what HSI is. This unit is charged with investigating the illegal movement of people, goods, contraband, weapons, and sensitive technology into, out of, and through the United States. HSI's agents are tasked with combating cartels, human smuggling, child exploitation, forced labor, and investigating international financial crimes. Do we really want to defund those vital investigations? I think not. CBP, too, does far more than just immigration enforcement. It is responsible for facilitating legal trade and travel throughout the United States. It screens goods for drugs and protects U.S. industry through its efforts to detect illegal imports, duty evasions, and counterfeits. Its Office of Trade works to ensure that products made with forced labor are not allowed into our country and that businesses are unable to profit from human trafficking. CBP's Air and Marine Operations patrols our maritime borders. Its agricultural specialists work to prevent the spread of pests and foreign plants being brought into this country. Last Congress, the Democratic leadership of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee held a hearing--an excellent hearing-- entitled ``Combatting Transnational Criminal Organizations and Related Trafficking.'' The witnesses for that hearing were, not surprisingly, representatives of HSI and CBP. These Agencies and their work and the importance of it were highlighted, and I quote the Democratic Appropriations lead who said they are playing ``a critical role in interrupting the flow of fentanyl into the United States.'' That same Democratic Senator said proposed cuts to these accounts would be ``catastrophic'' to their ability to fight cartels. Now, the other side of the aisle suggests that we defund those exact same efforts. We cannot continue this way. Real challenges are worthy of a serious response--a response that does not harm our country. Today, Republicans are again taking steps to restore funding to the Department of Homeland Security and these critical missions. Shortly, we will have an opportunity to vote on allowing the Senate to debate and amend the Homeland Security appropriations bill. Once on the bill, I believe that we should consider the White House's good-faith February 26 offer, which the Democrats have yet to respond to, even though it addresses many of the concerns that they have raised and that many of us have raised. This offer would build on the reforms that were included in the bipartisan funding bill negotiated earlier this year, which included new safeguards to protect the American public and our law enforcement and increased oversight. For example, our bipartisan bill had $20 million, which we added, for body-worn cameras. Those cameras help to protect both law enforcement officers and the people with whom they are interacting. But the White House offer would go considerably further by increasing substantially the funding for the body-worn cameras. I don't know why my Democratic colleagues would not see that as great progress. It goes beyond what we had previously negotiated in a completely bipartisan way. There are many other critically important, substantive reforms that are included in the White House's offer. But what do we hear from the Democratic leadership? Nothing--nothing in the 2 weeks since the offer was submitted. They won't even sit down and discuss the offer. I just do not understand it. The White House's offer represents a good-faith, honest attempt to find reasonable compromises on the differences with our Democratic colleagues. It deserves a good-faith, reasonable, honest response. Instead, silence. The stakes are far too high. To my Democratic colleagues, please, stop playing political games when so much is at stake. Work with us to govern. Let's be responsible. It is time for our Democratic colleagues to get serious.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act. Firefighters across Maine and throughout the country courageously and selflessly put their lives on the line to serve their communities, responding to emergencies at all hours to protect the lives and property of others. Tragically, some firefighters make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. When a firefighter falls, the loss is felt not only by his or her family and colleagues but also by the entire community. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation was established by Congress in 1992 to honor these heroes, to remember their service, and to provide vital support to the families they leave behind. As our Nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, we are reminded once again of the extraordinary bravery and selflessness of America's first responders who answered the call without hesitation and rushed toward danger to rescue others. On that tragic day, 343 members of the Fire Department of the city of New York died in the line of duty. Since then, firefighters and other emergency responders involved in the response, rescue, and recovery operations have fallen sick because of their service at Ground Zero. Their courage continues to inspire and humble us. Firefighters risk their lives with every assignment they take. Over the years, the NFFF has recognized the sacrifices of 41 Maine firefighters. This year, the annual event will memorialize one more Mainer, Chief Bobby Dorr of Ellsworth, whose cancer was related to his fire service. In this spirit of remembrance and gratitude, I call on my colleagues to support the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act, which will recognize and honor our Nation's fallen firefighters with a commemorative coin program to support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The commemorative coin program has long been a bipartisan way for Congress to recognize those who have made enduring contributions to our Nation. Authorizing a coin program to honor fallen firefighters and raise funds for programs to help those they leave behind, particularly as we reflect on the legacy of 9/11, is a fitting tribute and a meaningful way for Americans to show their appreciation. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and to join me in honoring the firefighters who gave their lives in service to others on September 11 and throughout our Nation's history. Mr. President, I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow Congressional Fire Services Caucus cochairs, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Murkowski, and Senator Peters, for supporting this legislation. I urge the rest of our colleagues to join us in honoring America's bravest.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act. Firefighters across Maine and throughout the country courageously and selflessly put their lives on the line to serve their communities, responding to emergencies at all hours to protect the lives and property of others. Tragically, some firefighters make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. When a firefighter falls, the loss is felt not only by his or her family and colleagues but also by the entire community. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation was established by Congress in 1992 to honor these heroes, to remember their service, and to provide vital support to the families they leave behind. As our Nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, we are reminded once again of the extraordinary bravery and selflessness of America's first responders who answered the call without hesitation and rushed toward danger to rescue others. On that tragic day, 343 members of the Fire Department of the city of New York died in the line of duty. Since then, firefighters and other emergency responders involved in the response, rescue, and recovery operations have fallen sick because of their service at Ground Zero. Their courage continues to inspire and humble us. Firefighters risk their lives with every assignment they take. Over the years, the NFFF has recognized the sacrifices of 41 Maine firefighters. This year, the annual event will memorialize one more Mainer, Chief Bobby Dorr of Ellsworth, whose cancer was related to his fire service. In this spirit of remembrance and gratitude, I call on my colleagues to support the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Coin Act, which will recognize and honor our Nation's fallen firefighters with a commemorative coin program to support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The commemorative coin program has long been a bipartisan way for Congress to recognize those who have made enduring contributions to our Nation. Authorizing a coin program to honor fallen firefighters and raise funds for programs to help those they leave behind, particularly as we reflect on the legacy of 9/11, is a fitting tribute and a meaningful way for Americans to show their appreciation. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and to join me in honoring the firefighters who gave their lives in service to others on September 11 and throughout our Nation's history. Mr. President, I would like to thank my colleagues and fellow Congressional Fire Services Caucus cochairs, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Murkowski, and Senator Peters, for supporting this legislation. I urge the rest of our colleagues to join us in honoring America's bravest.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2026, along with my colleague from Michigan Senator Peters. Our bill will expand Medicare beneficiaries' access to medical nutrition therapy, or MNT, which is a cost-effective component of treatment for obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions. Increasing access to MNT should be part of the strategy to improve disease management and prevention for America's seniors. The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act would make two important changes to support patients, improve health outcomes, and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs. First, the bill would expand Medicare Part B coverage of outpatient medical nutrition therapy services to several currently uncovered diseases or conditions, including prediabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, HIV/AIDS, gastrointestinal diseases including celiac disease, and cardiovascular disease. Currently, Medicare Part B only covers outpatient MNT for diabetes, renal disease, and post-kidney transplant. Second, the bill would allow more types of providers--including nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical nurse specialists, and psychologists--to refer patients to MNT. Right now, only physicians may refer patients to dieticians for medical nutrition therapy. Expanding the types of providers who make these referrals would be especially significant for patients in a rural State like Maine where an NP or PA may be one's trusted primary care provider. MNT counseling is provided by registered dietitian nutritionists, RDNs, as part of a collaborative healthcare team. It is evidence-based and has been proven to positively affect weight, blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar control. Nutritional counseling by RDNs is recommended by the National Lipid Association to promote long-term adherence to an individualized, heart-healthy diet. Through MST, individuals benefit from in-depth, individualized nutrition assessments. Followup visits help reinforce important behavior and lifestyle changes and increase compliance. Seniors deserve improved access to this cost-effective medical treatment, but many older adults are missing out under the current Medicare policy. I heard from a dietitian in rural Washington County, ME, who is the only part-time dietitian in the county and works at a federally qualified health center, FQHC. One of her patients is an elderly man with severe tooth decay requiring a modified personalized meal plan. He lost 40 pounds in 1 year despite being cleared for any gastrointestinal or other underlying medical condition that could have caused this extreme weight loss. He became clinically malnourished. Finally, his primary care provider referred him to the dietitian at the FQHC for medical nutrition therapy with a diagnosis of failure to thrive. Because this patient, however, did not have a diagnosis of diabetes or renal disease, the FQHC at which he received treatment will not receive Medicare reimbursement for the three 60-minute medical nutrition therapy sessions that the dietitian provided. At his third and final session, the patient shared that this dietitian was the most helpful provider with whom he had ever met. He is no longer afraid of eating and has more good days enjoying meals with family and friends. Another patient from Maine, who is a Medicare beneficiary, was treated for severe obesity with gastric bypass surgery. This patient was unable to afford out of pocket costs to receive post-operative medical nutrition therapy. He struggled with post-operative diet advancement, which led to hospitalization for severe dehydration and failure to thrive within the first 3 months after surgery. One year after surgery, this patient had severe nutritional anemia requiring iron infusion and monthly vitamin B-12 injections. This tragic situation could have been prevented if the MNT he needed had been covered by Medicare. Early treatment with MNT can prevent serious health complications and chronic conditions, particularly in older adults. In addition to the human cost, there is a financial one: the impact on the Medicare Program. This should not come as a surprise since the health and economic effects of chronic diseases are staggering. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 percent of the $4.9 trillion that the United States spends annually on healthcare goes to the treatment of people with chronic diseases and mental health conditions. Preventing chronic diseases, or managing symptoms when prevention is not possible is an effective way to reduce these costs. This is particularly important for the Medicare Program as more than two-thirds of seniors on Medicare live with multiple chronic conditions. As one registered dietitian nutritionist in Maine told me, ``We all know a dollar spent on prevention saves many health care dollars in the long run and is the right thing to do for our seniors at a time when they have limited budgets.'' The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 is supported by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Diabetes Association, the Endocrine Society, and UsAgainstAlzheimer's. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation to improve access to cost-effective medical treatment for Medicare patients with chronic diseases.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2026, along with my colleague from Michigan Senator Peters. Our bill will expand Medicare beneficiaries' access to medical nutrition therapy, or MNT, which is a cost-effective component of treatment for obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic conditions. Increasing access to MNT should be part of the strategy to improve disease management and prevention for America's seniors. The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act would make two important changes to support patients, improve health outcomes, and reduce unnecessary healthcare costs. First, the bill would expand Medicare Part B coverage of outpatient medical nutrition therapy services to several currently uncovered diseases or conditions, including prediabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, HIV/AIDS, gastrointestinal diseases including celiac disease, and cardiovascular disease. Currently, Medicare Part B only covers outpatient MNT for diabetes, renal disease, and post-kidney transplant. Second, the bill would allow more types of providers--including nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical nurse specialists, and psychologists--to refer patients to MNT. Right now, only physicians may refer patients to dieticians for medical nutrition therapy. Expanding the types of providers who make these referrals would be especially significant for patients in a rural State like Maine where an NP or PA may be one's trusted primary care provider. MNT counseling is provided by registered dietitian nutritionists, RDNs, as part of a collaborative healthcare team. It is evidence-based and has been proven to positively affect weight, blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar control. Nutritional counseling by RDNs is recommended by the National Lipid Association to promote long-term adherence to an individualized, heart-healthy diet. Through MST, individuals benefit from in-depth, individualized nutrition assessments. Followup visits help reinforce important behavior and lifestyle changes and increase compliance. Seniors deserve improved access to this cost-effective medical treatment, but many older adults are missing out under the current Medicare policy. I heard from a dietitian in rural Washington County, ME, who is the only part-time dietitian in the county and works at a federally qualified health center, FQHC. One of her patients is an elderly man with severe tooth decay requiring a modified personalized meal plan. He lost 40 pounds in 1 year despite being cleared for any gastrointestinal or other underlying medical condition that could have caused this extreme weight loss. He became clinically malnourished. Finally, his primary care provider referred him to the dietitian at the FQHC for medical nutrition therapy with a diagnosis of failure to thrive. Because this patient, however, did not have a diagnosis of diabetes or renal disease, the FQHC at which he received treatment will not receive Medicare reimbursement for the three 60-minute medical nutrition therapy sessions that the dietitian provided. At his third and final session, the patient shared that this dietitian was the most helpful provider with whom he had ever met. He is no longer afraid of eating and has more good days enjoying meals with family and friends. Another patient from Maine, who is a Medicare beneficiary, was treated for severe obesity with gastric bypass surgery. This patient was unable to afford out of pocket costs to receive post-operative medical nutrition therapy. He struggled with post-operative diet advancement, which led to hospitalization for severe dehydration and failure to thrive within the first 3 months after surgery. One year after surgery, this patient had severe nutritional anemia requiring iron infusion and monthly vitamin B-12 injections. This tragic situation could have been prevented if the MNT he needed had been covered by Medicare. Early treatment with MNT can prevent serious health complications and chronic conditions, particularly in older adults. In addition to the human cost, there is a financial one: the impact on the Medicare Program. This should not come as a surprise since the health and economic effects of chronic diseases are staggering. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 percent of the $4.9 trillion that the United States spends annually on healthcare goes to the treatment of people with chronic diseases and mental health conditions. Preventing chronic diseases, or managing symptoms when prevention is not possible is an effective way to reduce these costs. This is particularly important for the Medicare Program as more than two-thirds of seniors on Medicare live with multiple chronic conditions. As one registered dietitian nutritionist in Maine told me, ``We all know a dollar spent on prevention saves many health care dollars in the long run and is the right thing to do for our seniors at a time when they have limited budgets.'' The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 is supported by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Diabetes Association, the Endocrine Society, and UsAgainstAlzheimer's. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation to improve access to cost-effective medical treatment for Medicare patients with chronic diseases.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the We Can't Wait Act, a bipartisan bill with my colleague from New Hampshire Senator Hassan. This legislation addresses a pressing and unnecessary hardship in our Social Security Disability Insurance Program. This program, known as SSDI, provides eligible individuals with benefits if they become disabled and are unable to work. Our bill would give eligible individuals with disabilities the option of bypassing the current 5-month waiting period and allow them to access the benefits that they have earned without further delay. As my colleagues are aware, SSDI benefits are available only to those who have worked long enough and contributed sufficiently through payroll taxes to the Social Security Disability Insurance Trust Fund. When an individual becomes disabled and meets the program's strict eligibility standards, he or she should be able to rely on the benefits that they paid for, benefits intended to provide critical support during a time of great need. Imagine that you have worked for many years and you find that you have contracted a disease that is fatal and that you have very little time to live. Surely, you should be able to tap into what essentially is an insurance fund set up for people in exactly that situation. But because of the 5-month waiting period, there are individuals who receive no payments at all. During those 5 months, no payments are made, even though the disability has been confirmed by the Social Security Administration. This delay prevents individuals from accessing the insurance they have earned, at a critical and difficult time in their lives. Lack of benefits can make it more difficult to obtain timely medical treatments, cover basic living expenses, and, in some cases where it is not a terminal condition, begin the process of rehabilitation toward an eventual return to work, if possible. The burden of this delay can be heartbreaking. I have heard from constituents whose loved ones could get no help from SSDI when they were overtaken by a sudden and terminal diagnosis. Faced with a terrible disease that demanded every ounce of their energy and their total focus, they were forced instead to worry over their finances at the very end of their lives. This just isn't right. The broader disability determination process already imposes significant hardships. A 2020 Government Accountability Office report documented what can be severe consequences of the long wait times for applicants who appealed initial denials for a Social Security disability. Between fiscal years 2014 and 2019, approximately 48,000 individuals were forced to file for bankruptcy while awaiting a final decision on their appeals. From 2008 through 2019, an estimated nearly 110,000 people died before receiving a final decision. These heartbreaking outcomes occur even before many applicants reach the point of approval. Yet even once they are approved, the additional 5-month exclusion period compounds the suffering for those who have already proven their eligibility. Congress has already acted to address this delay in certain circumstances. In 2020, we passed the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act. It eliminated the 5-month waiting period for individuals with ALS, a progressive, terminal disease where every month, every day is critical. That bipartisan reform was the right thing to do, and I was proud to cosponsor it. The We Can't Wait Act builds directly on that precedent. Under our bill, claimants would have a choice. They could either opt to begin receiving benefits immediately after approval, rather than waiting 5 months, in exchange for a modest actuarially sound reduction in their monthly benefit amount, or they could decide to wait the 5 months and receive the full amount. As the chief actuary of the Social Security Administration explains in a letter released today, this small reduction in benefits maintains the actuarial balance in the trust fund over the 75-year projection period. Let me emphasize that this bill makes no other changes in the SSDI Program. It does not alter eligibility criteria, the determination process--although that should be speeded up--benefit levels for those who choose not to bypass the wait, or any other core element in the program. It is a precise reform that honors the contributions hard-working Americans with disabilities have made while removing an arbitrary barrier to the benefits that they have earned and deserve. While this reform is carefully targeted, its impact would be profound. It would end the tragic reality in which Americans with disabilities suffer and, in some cases, die during an unnecessary 5- month delay after their disability has been officially certified by the Social Security Administration. This is a key point made in a letter supporting the bill by a broad coalition of organizations committed to the rights, dignity, and well- being of people with disabilities--groups that advocate every day for those who need this relief most. The letter, which is signed by more than two dozen organizations, goes on to make the point that the 5-month exclusion period is unnecessary and harms disabled Americans who are often financially hanging on by a thread. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to have the letter of endorsement from this coalition printed in the Record immediately following my remarks. The We Can't Wait Act is straightforward, compassionate, and fiscally responsible. It would provide a crucial option to Americans who simply can't wait even 5 months for the benefits they have worked for and desperately need. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this commonsense and much needed legislation.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the We Can't Wait Act, a bipartisan bill with my colleague from New Hampshire Senator Hassan. This legislation addresses a pressing and unnecessary hardship in our Social Security Disability Insurance Program. This program, known as SSDI, provides eligible individuals with benefits if they become disabled and are unable to work. Our bill would give eligible individuals with disabilities the option of bypassing the current 5-month waiting period and allow them to access the benefits that they have earned without further delay. As my colleagues are aware, SSDI benefits are available only to those who have worked long enough and contributed sufficiently through payroll taxes to the Social Security Disability Insurance Trust Fund. When an individual becomes disabled and meets the program's strict eligibility standards, he or she should be able to rely on the benefits that they paid for, benefits intended to provide critical support during a time of great need. Imagine that you have worked for many years and you find that you have contracted a disease that is fatal and that you have very little time to live. Surely, you should be able to tap into what essentially is an insurance fund set up for people in exactly that situation. But because of the 5-month waiting period, there are individuals who receive no payments at all. During those 5 months, no payments are made, even though the disability has been confirmed by the Social Security Administration. This delay prevents individuals from accessing the insurance they have earned, at a critical and difficult time in their lives. Lack of benefits can make it more difficult to obtain timely medical treatments, cover basic living expenses, and, in some cases where it is not a terminal condition, begin the process of rehabilitation toward an eventual return to work, if possible. The burden of this delay can be heartbreaking. I have heard from constituents whose loved ones could get no help from SSDI when they were overtaken by a sudden and terminal diagnosis. Faced with a terrible disease that demanded every ounce of their energy and their total focus, they were forced instead to worry over their finances at the very end of their lives. This just isn't right. The broader disability determination process already imposes significant hardships. A 2020 Government Accountability Office report documented what can be severe consequences of the long wait times for applicants who appealed initial denials for a Social Security disability. Between fiscal years 2014 and 2019, approximately 48,000 individuals were forced to file for bankruptcy while awaiting a final decision on their appeals. From 2008 through 2019, an estimated nearly 110,000 people died before receiving a final decision. These heartbreaking outcomes occur even before many applicants reach the point of approval. Yet even once they are approved, the additional 5-month exclusion period compounds the suffering for those who have already proven their eligibility. Congress has already acted to address this delay in certain circumstances. In 2020, we passed the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act. It eliminated the 5-month waiting period for individuals with ALS, a progressive, terminal disease where every month, every day is critical. That bipartisan reform was the right thing to do, and I was proud to cosponsor it. The We Can't Wait Act builds directly on that precedent. Under our bill, claimants would have a choice. They could either opt to begin receiving benefits immediately after approval, rather than waiting 5 months, in exchange for a modest actuarially sound reduction in their monthly benefit amount, or they could decide to wait the 5 months and receive the full amount. As the chief actuary of the Social Security Administration explains in a letter released today, this small reduction in benefits maintains the actuarial balance in the trust fund over the 75-year projection period. Let me emphasize that this bill makes no other changes in the SSDI Program. It does not alter eligibility criteria, the determination process--although that should be speeded up--benefit levels for those who choose not to bypass the wait, or any other core element in the program. It is a precise reform that honors the contributions hard-working Americans with disabilities have made while removing an arbitrary barrier to the benefits that they have earned and deserve. While this reform is carefully targeted, its impact would be profound. It would end the tragic reality in which Americans with disabilities suffer and, in some cases, die during an unnecessary 5- month delay after their disability has been officially certified by the Social Security Administration. This is a key point made in a letter supporting the bill by a broad coalition of organizations committed to the rights, dignity, and well- being of people with disabilities--groups that advocate every day for those who need this relief most. The letter, which is signed by more than two dozen organizations, goes on to make the point that the 5-month exclusion period is unnecessary and harms disabled Americans who are often financially hanging on by a thread. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to have the letter of endorsement from this coalition printed in the Record immediately following my remarks. The We Can't Wait Act is straightforward, compassionate, and fiscally responsible. It would provide a crucial option to Americans who simply can't wait even 5 months for the benefits they have worked for and desperately need. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this commonsense and much needed legislation.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, in 1801, a small town nestled between Androscoggin Lake and River was incorporated and named after Leeds, England, the ancestral home of the first settlers Thomas and Roger Stinchfield. Today, it is an honor to join the people of Leeds, ME, in celebrating the 225th anniversary of a community that is a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family. Leeds, initially part of the Littleborough Plantation, was settled as early as the 1780s, with fertile land and plentiful water nourishing the first families. As Leeds developed, so did agriculture and small- scale manufacturing that proved to be not only self-sufficient but also the backbone of its economy. By the mid-19th century, improved roads connected Leeds to other surrounding communities that made it a center for agriculture and, eventually, recreation. Today, Leeds' natural beauty has led to the rise of boating and fishing on Androscoggin Lake, turning quaint farmstands into a seasonal retreat in central Maine. The proud history of Leeds is etched in stone atop Monument Hill, where the Civil War Peace Monument stands as a tribute to the town's extraordinary service. Erected by the distinguished Howard brothers in 1895, this monument honors the 161 local soldiers and sailors who served in the American Civil War, in which Leeds had the highest per capita enlistment of any town in Maine. Major General Oliver Otis Howard's leadership shaped the Nation's path toward emancipation, making his impact felt today at Howard University, which he founded. The Howard brothers' commitment to freedom spanned beyond the battlefield by bringing escaped slave George Washington ``Wash'' Kemp, who served in the Union Army alongside both Howard brothers, back to Leeds, making it his eventual home. Another fascinating example of Leeds' dedication to public service can be seen in the Curtis Homestead Conservation Area. The 360-acre property that once served as the home of Maine Governor Kenneth M. Curtis features remnants of a farmhouse and barn built in the 1840s, offering visitors a glimpse into life in Leeds during the 19th century. Maine is known as Vacationland, and Leeds is one reason why. With water for recreation, nature preserves for walking and hiking, and a rich history, there is always something to explore. The celebration of Leeds' landmark anniversary is not merely about the passage of time; it is about resilience, service, and the enduring strength of community. We honor the people of Leeds who stood together in times of war, worked together to build a thriving town, and created a legacy that spans more than two centuries. Their effort and dedication ensure that Leeds has a bright future.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, among the robust pines of western Maine, Carthage was founded on February 20, 1826. Today, it is an honor to join the people of Carthage, ME, in celebrating the 200th anniversary of a community that is a great place to live, work, and raise families. Prior to the founding of Carthage, the land was used as hunting grounds by the Wabanaki people. The Wabanaki hunted white-tailed deer, moose, beavers, ducks, and grouse throughout the region. In 1804, Mr. William Bowley moved onto the land, accompanied by his brother Oliver and father Gideon. The Bowley family built the first sawmill, called Bowley's Mills, on Webb River at the base of Lake Webb. Webb River drains to the Androscoggin River, making the location particularly appealing. The family went on to build a gristmill close by the following year. The land was considered formally settled in 1812 and then founded in 1826 with the fabled city of antiquity as its namesake. By the 1880s, the town had grown to more than 500 residents and had farms, two sawmills, five schools, a gristmill and limestone quarry. Centuries later, the town retains the charm and rugged beauty that attracted the first settlers. The town's economy was originally dominated by forests and farms. Today, the town attracts outdoor enthusiasts from throughout Maine and beyond to Rocky Mountain Terrain Park and nearby Mt. Blue State Park. Carthage is also home to Newman Cemetery, a reminder of the townspeople's service to the State and country. In this historic cemetery, lie the remains of founding families, as well as veterans of the Revolutionary War and Civil War. Hiram Pitt Bennet was born in Carthage in 1826, the year of the town's founding. Bennet moved west to Colorado, where he was elected a territory Delegate to Congress. During his time in Congress, Bennet worked tirelessly to push for Colorado's statehood. The legacy of his advocacy and public service continue to live on as testament to the fine people of Carthage. Carthage stands as a shining example of the thriving communities and pristine nature our great State of Maine has to offer. I congratulate the people of Carthage, ME, on this 200th anniversary and wish you all the best in the years to come.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Accounting STEM Pursuit Act, which would help address workforce shortages in the accounting profession by recognizing accounting as a STEM education subject and adding accounting education programs as an allowable use of K through 12 Federal grant funding. I want to thank Senator Rosen for coleading this bill with me. Accountants play a key role in today's economy. They serve as trusted advisers for companies large and small, assist in measuring business performance, help individuals and businesses file their taxes in an accurate and timely manner, assist government entities with their finances, and even investigate instances of financial fraud. Yet the United States is facing a shortage of accountants willing and able to fill these important economic roles. In Maine, for example, municipalities have struggled to find accountants to conduct their annual audits. Recent trends suggest this shortage will continue. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 124,000 job openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the next decade. At the same time, fewer students are pursuing accounting degrees than in prior years. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act seeks to improve the accounting pipeline by expanding K through 12 students' exposure to accounting programs. As with other areas of STEM education, this bill would qualify accounting instruction for Federal funds. This recognition aligns with the increasing need for accounting professionals to have high-level math and technology skills, including the ability to analyze big data, ensure data security, and manage cyber security risk. In particular, this bill would allow States and school districts to use a portion of their Federal student support and academic enrichment grant funding to support accounting education, including accounting career awareness. The Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grant Program was created as part of the Every Student Succeeds Act and aims to help States and school districts offer a well-rounded educational experience to all students. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act would also allow school districts to use this flexible grant to strengthen their accounting curricula. Businesses and individuals rely on accountants to help them develop and reach their financial goals. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act would help address the shortage of accountants by promoting accounting education and improving the pipeline of future accountants. I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to introduce the Accounting STEM Pursuit Act, which would help address workforce shortages in the accounting profession by recognizing accounting as a STEM education subject and adding accounting education programs as an allowable use of K through 12 Federal grant funding. I want to thank Senator Rosen for coleading this bill with me. Accountants play a key role in today's economy. They serve as trusted advisers for companies large and small, assist in measuring business performance, help individuals and businesses file their taxes in an accurate and timely manner, assist government entities with their finances, and even investigate instances of financial fraud. Yet the United States is facing a shortage of accountants willing and able to fill these important economic roles. In Maine, for example, municipalities have struggled to find accountants to conduct their annual audits. Recent trends suggest this shortage will continue. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 124,000 job openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the next decade. At the same time, fewer students are pursuing accounting degrees than in prior years. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act seeks to improve the accounting pipeline by expanding K through 12 students' exposure to accounting programs. As with other areas of STEM education, this bill would qualify accounting instruction for Federal funds. This recognition aligns with the increasing need for accounting professionals to have high-level math and technology skills, including the ability to analyze big data, ensure data security, and manage cyber security risk. In particular, this bill would allow States and school districts to use a portion of their Federal student support and academic enrichment grant funding to support accounting education, including accounting career awareness. The Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grant Program was created as part of the Every Student Succeeds Act and aims to help States and school districts offer a well-rounded educational experience to all students. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act would also allow school districts to use this flexible grant to strengthen their accounting curricula. Businesses and individuals rely on accountants to help them develop and reach their financial goals. The Accounting STEM Pursuit Act would help address the shortage of accountants by promoting accounting education and improving the pipeline of future accountants. I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to support the funding package that is before us. It includes full-year funding for the following bills: the Department of Defense; Financial Services and General Government; Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education; National Security; Department of Defense; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. Colleagues, when we pass this package and when it is signed into law on top of the previous packages, we will have funded 96 percent of all of government. (Applause.) Mr. President, the package also continues funding for the Department of Homeland Security for 2 weeks to allow us additional time to evaluate further changes in ICE procedures beyond those that we have already included in this bill. Let me end by thanking our Appropriations Committee members for the tremendous efforts that they put into getting us to this wonderful achievement. These are fiscally responsible bills that reflect months of hard work and deliberation from Members from both parties and both sides of the Capitol. Enacting this package will represent a major milestone and show that Congress can work together in a bipartisan manner to carry out our article I responsibilities and deliver real results for the people that we are honored to represent. Again, my thanks to the leadership and to the committee members and, of course, to our great staff. I urge my colleagues to support this important package. Vote on H.R. 7148

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I call up my amendment No. 4273 and ask that it be reported by number.

Ms. COLLINS. I urge our colleagues to defeat this amendment, and I move to table.

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, Members of Congress understand the needs of our constituents far better than any well-intentioned Federal employee located here in Washington. The CDS projects provide funding for States, communities, and nonprofit organizations. The process is completely open and transparent. Senators who submit such requests are required to post their requests on their official websites, along with a certification that neither they nor their immediate family members have any financial interest in the items requested. All of the fiscal year 2026 CDS requests submitted to the Appropriations Committee can be found in a searchable table that has been posted on the committee's website.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, in 1826, 6 years after Maine became our Nation's 23rd State, a small fishing town was incorporated in downeast Maine. Cutler, named after Joseph Cutler, an early settler from Massachusetts, is a beacon of Maine's nationally renowned beauty and a stronghold for Maine's traditional lobstering sector. From its humble beginnings to a booming fishing industry, Cutler remains a great pearl of the State of Maine. During the mid-19th century, Cutler Harbor fostered substantial growth in the town's fishing industry, lumber shipping, and small boat operations. Known as the Harbor of Refuge, it became a safe place for fisherman to ride out the vicious storms of the coast. As the town grew, Cutler played an important role in the promotion of maritime safety and American national security. Since 1876, the Little River Lighthouse, with a formidable cast iron tower, has guided fishermen and has been integral to U.S. Coast Guard operations in the area. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its existence for generations to come. In addition, for 65 years, the Cutler Naval Station, with one of the most powerful radio transmitters in the world, has provided critical communications for the U.S. Navy's submarine fleet, anywhere in the world, whether on the surface or submerged. Cutler is home to Maine's spectacular Bold Coast. The Cutler Coast Public Reserved land boasts an abundance of scenic hiking trails, peatlands, secluded beaches, and wild ocean views, offering a stunning example of the beauty that defines the State of Maine. In addition, Cutler remains a hub of the Maine blueberry industry that produces almost 85 percent of the world's wild blueberries. Cutler's spirit and historic connection to America's freedom continues today. Every Fourth of July, the townspeople honor the courage, sacrifice, and vision that won our Nation's independence. This year's observation will be especially meaningful with the addition of a fun-filled bicentennial celebration. The Maine State motto is ``Dirigo,'' meaning ``I Lead.'' With the beacon from its Little River Lighthouse lighting the way, Cutler has a bright and hopeful future. I congratulate the people of Cutler, ME, on this 200th anniversary and wish them all the best in the years to come.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to vote to end debate on the motion to proceed to the six-bill package of appropriations legislation sent to us by the House of Representatives. These are fiscally responsible funding bills that reflect months of hard work and deliberation and contributions from Members of both parties and on both sides of the Capitol. I would like to take a few moments to highlight some of the key aspects of these bills. Let's begin with the funding for the Department of Defense. This legislation provides U.S. military services with the funding needed to deter China and Russia, supports our servicemembers and their families, and strengthens the defense industrial base. It addresses major funding gaps across the board, such as in shipbuilding. The bill provides a critical downpayment toward an additional DDG-51, the workhorse of the U.S. surface fleet, and invests in additional Columbia- and Virginia- class submarines. The bill also provides multiyear procurement authority for critical munitions production, a priority for the President. It funds drone and counterdrone technologies, which, as we have learned in both Ukraine and Israel, are increasingly changing the nature of the battlefield. And it sustains security cooperation with close allies and partners whose growing defense capabilities are force multipliers for the United States and contribute to the deterrence of shared adversaries. This is especially true of our NATO allies who are increasingly increasing their own domestic levels of military investment at the push and encouragement of President Trump, and appropriately so. Finally, the Defense bill invests in our most precious asset: the men and women of our Armed Forces. The bill fully funds the 3.8-percent pay raise for servicemembers and the additional pay raise for our junior enlisted servicemembers, showing our commitment to their readiness, well-being, and mission success. The second bill is the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs bill. It used to be known as the State, Foreign Operations bill. It contains security assistance for key allies and partners, including Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The bill also supports important global health programs. It continues support for the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR, which has saved a remarkable 26 million lives since 2003, including the lives of 8 million babies born to HIV-infected mothers. It is difficult for me to contemplate another global health program-- and we have many good ones--that has had more of a positive impact than PEPFAR. In many ways, I think it was President George W. Bush's greatest legacy. Turning to the Labor, HHS bill, this appropriations bill would prioritize funding to help make Americans healthier, and it robustly funds lifesaving biomedical research. This has been a top priority of mine, and I know of many other Members as well, including the subcommittee chair, Shelley Moore Capito and her ranking member, Tammy Baldwin. Funding for NIH is not decreased, as was proposed in the administration's budget. Rather, it is increased by $415 million, including increases of $100 million for Alzheimer's research and $10 million more for diabetes research, with a focus on type 1 diabetes. This bill also makes critical investments in our Nation's children and families and invests in America's workforce. It includes funding for childcare programs to help low-income working families and for apprenticeship programs to help us reach the goal of 1 million new active apprentices. The bill also includes more funding for low-income heating assistance, which is absolutely crucial for States like Maine and is an issue that I have worked for years on with my Democratic colleague Jack Reed of Rhode Island. The Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development bill focuses on our most pressing transportation challenges, including modernizing our Nation's outdated air traffic system. And I give Secretary Duffy a great deal of credit for coming up with a workable, much needed plan in that area. It would also address the air traffic controller shortage and provides a pay raise there as well. The bill invests in critical infrastructure, like our roads, bridges, ports, and rail. At the same time, the appropriations will continue to fully fund existing rental assistance for more than 4.6 million households to ensure that seniors, the disabled individuals, and working families who currently receive such assistance are not put at risk of homelessness. The Financial Services and General Government bill funds core government functions. It increases funding for taxpayer services at the IRS, reallocates resources to strengthen court security, and helps keep our Nation's Capital--Washington, DC--safe for both residents and visitors. As the vice chair of the committee has mentioned, there has understandably been a great deal of attention focused on the Homeland Security portion of the package, given the events of the past week. The horrific shooting death of Alex Pretti must be thoroughly and impartially investigated, and President Trump has promised that it will be investigated both impartially and thoroughly. The Homeland Security funding bill includes important provisions that we put in during the negotiations that would make such incidents less likely to occur. For example, it includes $20 million for body-worn cameras, which help to protect both law enforcement officials and those with whom they are interacting. It includes $2 million to ensure that training requirements include how to deescalate an encounter with protestors. Yet another important provision of the bill empowers the inspector general to review and investigate detention centers. These are all critical reforms, but it does not mean that we cannot do more. But to do more, we need to get onto the bill so that we can make the critical decisions that are being negotiated by leadership in both the House and the Senate and the White House as to how we proceed. Do we split off the Homeland Security bill and pass the other five and put Homeland Security on a continuing resolution, which will, by the way, delay implementation of the three reforms that I just discussed? Or do we try to amend that part of the bill with the agreed-upon additional precautions and safeguards? We can't do that if we don't get onto the package. It is also worth noting that more than 80 percent of the funding in the Homeland Security bill is for non-immigration and border security functions. For example, 35 percent of the funding of the Homeland Security bill is for FEMA. And think about what FEMA has been doing on the ground, right now, due to the horrific storm that we have experienced. It includes $35 billion for FEMA to help State and local governments prepare to respond to disasters, including funding for programs that help local law enforcement and our firefighters that are so important. It includes funding for the nonprofit security grant program that helps organizations like synagogues, churches, temples, and mosques protect themselves from terrorism. Another important component of this bill supports our Coast Guard. Think of our Coast Guard personnel out in this terrible weather, being available to rescue our fishermen, our lobstermen, or others who are in trouble. The Coast Guard provides critical safety, security, and stewardship functions from Maine to the Caribbean, to the Arctic and a myriad of places in between. The bill provides funding to secure our borders and to stop the flow of the illegal drugs, money, weapons, and people being trafficked into our country by cartels and transnational criminal organizations. It includes funding for TSA to help keep Americans safe while they travel, as well as funding for a 3.8-percent pay raise for air traffic controllers to help address the serious workforce shortage that also can affect air safety. Mr. President, my hope is that we can come up with an agreement that allows us to proceed to this bill and to provide some additional safeguards. Those negotiations are underway right now. But if we don't get on to this package, we cannot change this package. I think that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle need to recognize and acknowledge that. I want to end by noting the tremendous work of the full committee staff, my staff and Senator Murray's staff. I particularly want to acknowledge the hard work of Betsy McDonnell, who has worked night and day as the staff director. I want to thank our subcommittee chairs and ranking members and their staff, who have worked so diligently and are so dedicated. I know the conversations are continuing even as we speak between the administration and Congress on how to complete action on the Homeland Security portion of this package. This morning's vote is about taking the first step--not the final step--to consider the package on the Senate floor. I urge my colleagues to support cloture on the motion to proceed to this vital appropriations package. Cloture Motion

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to be permitted to complete my remarks before the vote begins.

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to waive the mandatory quorum call in relation to the motion to proceed to Calendar No. 302, H.R. 7148.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, nestled among the rugged wilderness of the western Maine mountains, the town of Strong, ME, was incorporated on January 31, 1801. This 225th anniversary is a time to celebrate the spirit of determination and resiliency that still guides the community today. Strong's incorporation was but one milestone on a long journey of progress. For thousands of years, the abundant forests and waters of the region were the hunting grounds of the Native American Tribes. The very first house that laid the foundation for a permanent community was built in 1780 by a Wabanki known as Pierpole. Drawn by the rich natural resources, other settlers followed, and at the dawn of the 19th century, the town was established by Massachusetts Governor Caleb Strong. The rich soil supported prosperous farms and the fast-moving Sandy River powered lumber and grain mills. In the years that followed, Strong became a rural industrial powerhouse, including footwear, furniture, textiles, and Maine's first cheese factory. By the mid-20th century, the Forster Manufacturing Company was the world's largest maker of toothpicks, producing some 20 million per day. The townspeople used their prosperity to built what has been called ``the prettiest village in Maine,'' with handsome homes, churches, and schools. Education remains a center of community life, with the high- performing Strong Elementary School being named a National Blue Ribbon School. From the American Revolution to our time, Strong has always been a town of patriots, with a veterans memorial paying tribute to those who defend freedom. Among the most illustrious veterans is Lt. James Porter. After graduating from West Point in 1869, he served with the 7th Cavalry in the Reconstruction Era South under George Armstrong Custer and distinguished himself by his courage during the mission the eradicate the Ku Klux Klan. In 1876, he was among the 268 members of the legendary regiment who fell at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. In recent years, the townspeople have worked together to dedicate the Lance Corporal Scott B. Paul Memorial Park in honor of the young marine who fell in 1992 during the Gulf War. A section of the beautiful park, the Sgt. Richard Parker Memorial Wing, pays tribute to a local hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Every summer, the town celebrates it history and community spirit with Pierpole Days, a festival of parades, food, music, and family fun. The 2026 festival will surely be a memorable celebration of the people who for more than two centuries have pulled together, cared for one another, and built a community. I congratulate the town of Strong, ME, on this landmark anniversary.

Ms. COLLINS

Ms. COLLINS. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously scheduled rollcall vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to Calendar No. 300, S. 3627, now occur at 5:30 p.m., on Tuesday, January 27.