Jim Costa

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague, Mr. Cox, to honor the life of Sardul Singh Sihota, who passed away on March 5, 2019 at the age of 77. Throughout his life, Sardul was known for his contribution to the agriculture industry, his involvement with the Central Valley Sikh American community, and his role in establishing the first Sikh Temple in Selma, California. Sardul was born on May 15, 1941 in Bara Pind, District Jalandhar, India to Assa Singh and Amar Kaur Singh. Sardul immigrated to Yuba City, California in 1961 to start a new chapter in his life and create a prosperous foundation for his family. Having been raised on a farm in India, Sardul moved to Selma, California, where he began to grow raisin grapes and continue his family's tradition of farming. Two years later, Sardul bought his first piece of property in Selma, which his family continues to live on today. As one of the first Sikh Indians to live in Selma in the mid-1960s, Sardul had a desire to help other families immigrate to the Central Valley for a better life. He assisted many families by sharing his knowledge about the immigration process and acclimating to the life in the U.S. As a result, Selma became the new home to thousands of Sikh American families. As the Sikh community continued to grow and flourish, Sardul noticed the lack of temples close by where families could worship, celebrate, and mourn. He worked with his friends to build Selma's first Sikh Temple in 1987. Sardul is survived by his parents, his wife Jitendra, two daughters, Gurdeep Hebert and Harroop, and three sons, Paul, Simon, and Navjot, along with a host of extended family and friends. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that we ask our colleagues to join us in honoring the life of Sardul Singh Sihota and the great legacy that he leaves behind. Sardul will be remembered by his community for his generosity, hard work, and commitment to his friends and family. With all the relationships that he has forged along his journey, his memory will be forever remembered.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, soon, the Portuguese Caucus will be reintroducing legislation that is important for not only the United States, but for our ally Portugal. We will be introducing bipartisan legislation that will allow citizens of Portugal to be eligible for what is called the E-1 treaty trader visa and the E-2 treaty investors visa. Portugal is one of the United States' oldest allies and a close economic partner. The United States became Portugal's largest trading partner outside the European Union in 2015. Bilateral trade reached $4.2 billion in 2015, a 30 percent increase from 5 years ago. However, because Portugal did not have a bilateral investor treaty with the United States before joining the European Union, they are one of only five European Union countries whose citizens are not eligible for the E-1 and E-2 visas. This is long overdue. It is good for the United States; it is good for Portugal; and it is good for increased economic activity between both countries. It is bipartisan. Hopefully, this year, we will be successful in implementing these E-1 and E-2 treaty investor visas. 70th Anniversary of North Atlantic Treaty Organization

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. We helped create NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, not only to protect our European allies, but to protect our interests. For 70 years, it has done just that, a remarkable success. Next month, in April, we have invited the Secretary General of NATO to come address a bipartisan joint session of Congress to take assessment of and to commend our NATO partners, along with the United States, for a job well done. How do you say a job well done? Well, after World War II, over the last 70 years, this is the longest peacetime period in Europe in 1,000 years. Think about that. The last 70 years has been the longest peacetime period in Europe in more than 1,000 years. NATO has been one of the cornerstones that has created that peace dividend, being an absolute and critical barrier against the aggression of the Soviet Union and other totalitarian states, being there for the fall of the Iron Curtain. NATO's relevance today is just as important as it was then.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, as a third-generation farmer from California's San Joaquin Valley, I wish everyone a happy National Agriculture Day, something that we do throughout our country. I am proud, obviously, to represent the heart of California's San Joaquin Valley. But our agricultural productiveness throughout the country, beginning with the very origins of the history of the United States, has truly been one of the tremendous assets that we have had. We are home to the most productive agricultural land in the world, not only throughout the country, but in California. Our farmers, our dairymen and -women, our ranchers, and our livestock folks feed the country. I have often said that our food security, that dinner that we have on our dinner table every night, is a part of America's national food security. As a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, I am proud that we delivered a comprehensive farm bill last year. Now it is part of our job to ensure that we implement that farm bill as a safety net for agriculture throughout the country. But it is also a safety net for those who are working poor, those who are, unfortunately, recipients of food assistance programs and the school lunch and the school breakfast programs. So the farm bill does a great deal to help all Americans. This year, the Agriculture Committee will work to ensure that those promises we made in the farm bill will be implemented in the way we intended. The subcommittee that I chair, the Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture, will be at the vanguard of that effort. Today, on National Agriculture Day, let us thank those who grow America's food and fiber and put it on America's dinner table every night. I am talking about the farmers, the dairymen and -women, and the farmworkers, who, through their hard work and the fruits of their labor, make this all come together. Visas for Citizens of Portugal

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the thirty-first anniversary of the pogroms against people of Armenian descent in Sumgait, Azerbaijan. In late February of 1988 the Armenian people of Nagomo Karabakh, more commonly known by its people and descendants as Artsakh, rose up in peaceful protest to demand their right to self-determination. This courageous call for equality and human dignity was met with murderous riots beginning on February 27, 1988, which lasted for three days. Scores of Armenians were killed, hundreds were wounded, and thousands were forced to leave their homes and livelihoods behind. Undeterred by this oppression, the Armenian community and its dedication to democratic self-determination sparked a movement that finally helped bring an end to the dictatorship of the Soviet Union. The courage demonstrated by the people of Artsakh in demanding their rights even after all their adversity is admirable and should never be forgotten. The people of Artsakh continue to exhibit this strength and courage in the twenty-first century as they stride towards creating a better tomorrow. On behalf of the thousands of Armenian Americans living in my congressional district, I ask my colleagues to stand with the people of Artsakh in remembering the lives lost during this tragic conflict. May their memory serve as a reminder for each and every one of us to continue advocating for human rights and democratic freedoms around the world.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the passage of S. 47, the Natural Resources Management Act. This bipartisan legislation demonstrates what can be accomplished when we collaborate and negotiate. As a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, it is my responsibility to help protect and manage our natural resources. In my home state of California, national parks hold a special place in our hearts. This bill expands several national parks in California, notably Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and Mojave National Park. In addition, it expands wilderness designation, recreation and conservation areas, national monument designations, national trail system, and our national wild and scenic river system. While I applaud extensions of our public lands for all Americans to enjoy, Congress must do its job to ensure appropriate infrastructure maintenance. California's 16th District is the gateway to the crown jewel of the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park. Yosemite alone has more than $555 million dollars in deferred maintenance. Last Congress, I cosponsored the National Park Legacy Act because I believe Congress can and should do more to ensure the legacy of our National Parks. A critical part of this bill permanently authorizes the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a key program that helped protect nearly 2.5 million acres and provided $4 billion in state grants for conservation and recreation projects. As I have consistently advocated for over the years, it is imperative we turn our attention to fixing our broken water infrastructure. I applaud my colleagues in the Senate and the House for including legislation addressing the Contra Costa Canal Transfer. This project is a common-sense solution that allows the water district to complete necessary safety improvements to the canal while reducing government regulation. For California's 16th District, similar action is needed towards fixing the Friant-Kern Canal, the largest part of the Central Valley Project on the eastside of the Central Valley. Through smart policy and prudent leadership, I am confident that we can work together and ensure generations of future Americans can access, manage, and protect their natural resources. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the passage S. 47, the Natural Resources Management Act and I urge them to vote YES.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished service of European Union Ambassador to the United States, David O'Sullivan, who will retire his post at the end of the month after nearly five years of tireless advocacy for transatlantic unity. It has been my privilege to work alongside Ambassador O'Sullivan as we strive to secure our mutual interests in national security, trade, and foreign affairs. Ambassador O'Sullivan was appointed in November 2014, shottly after receiving the EU Transatlantic Business Award from the American Chamber of Commerce for his contributions to improving our economic ties with Europe. As Ambassador, he has devoted himself to strengthening the EU- U.S. trade relationship and worked to ensure that other large economic powers play by the rules. In 2018, he promoted a trilateral approach between the EU, the U.S., and Japan to tackle the issue of Chinese overcapacity in steel manufacturing. In his four decades of public service for the European Union, Ambassador O'Sullivan has worked diligently for international cooperation. Prior to serving as Ambassador, he helped establish one of the world's largest diplomatic organizations, the European External Action Service, and served as its Chief Operating Officer from 2011 to 2014. He held senior positions with the European Commission, including Head of Commission President Prodi's Cabinet from 1999 to 2000 and Secretary General of the European Commission from 2000 to 2005. In his capacity as Director General for Trade and Chief Negotiator for the Doha Development Round from 2005 to 2010, he secured numerous free trade agreements, including the conclusion ofthe EU's agreement with South Korea. Born in Dublin, Ireland, the Ambassador's interest in global politics and international affairs was first inspired by his father, Lieutenant General Gerry O'Sullivan, who served as Chief of Staff of the Irish Defense Forces. While his father served as liaison to the United Nations in the Congo in 1961, David attended elementary school in my state of California and later worked two summers as a YMCA camp counselor in Chicago. The bonds of friendship with our transatlantic allies are now more important than ever and must continue to be founded upon our shared values of democracy, respect for human dignity, and the rule of law. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ambassador O'Sullivan's enduring contributions to transatlantic unity and EU-U.S. trade relations. I thank him for his service and wish him a happy retirement.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, last month we commemorated Holocaust Remembrance Day. It is important that we always take note because, sadly, genocide and anti-Semitism continues to exist in the 21st century. As the philosopher George Santayana once explained: Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it. Yes. An important episode in the history of the Holocaust is the story of Aristides de Sousa Mendes, a Portuguese diplomat, who was the consular general in Bordeaux, France, in the late 1930s, 1940, and 1941. As a Portuguese diplomat in Bordeaux, France, at the outset of the Second World War, Sousa Mendes is credited with saving the lives of tens of thousands of European Jews fleeing the Holocaust. As a proud Portuguese American and the co-chair of the Congressional Portuguese Caucus, I am glad that later this year we will be hosting a screening of the film, ``Disobedience: The Sousa Mendes Story,'' in partnership with the Sousa Mendes Foundation. We must learn from our history so that the atrocities of the past are never repeated in the future. We remember, and we pledge to never, ever forget. Speaking of atrocities, sadly, they do continue to exist around the world. This week, we will have an opportunity, as Congress, to go on record to discuss the challenges of the civil war going on in Yemen and America's participation in that effort. It is high time Congress reassert itself in terms of our checks and balances. We have abdicated our role far too often in terms of declaring what America's actions and interventions will be like around the world. This week, we will have an opportunity to go on record on the atrocities that are taking place in Yemen and, hopefully, be a positive force for change. In addition to our efforts this week, a looming deadline on February 15 is before us, and that is whether we will reach an agreement on proposed border security and continue to fund this government to the end of our fiscal year. It is wrong, and it is irresponsible to ever shut down government. In the 14 years that I have been a Member of Congress, I have never voted to shut down government. It is not just the hundreds and thousands of Federal employees who are at risk, who have home payments, car payments, and other obligations, but all the other contractors and people who do business with the Federal Government or who are indirectly impacted. We have held hearings throughout my district. I hope that before the end of this week, we will reach a bipartisan agreement on border security. I hope that we will continue to ensure that government is not shut down and that we go about the business of working on this year's budget, hopefully, reaching an agreement to reduce the cost of prescription drugs; to reduce the cost of healthcare; to protect people's insurance for preexisting conditions; and maybe, just maybe, reach an agreement on a bipartisan infrastructure package. That is the business at hand, and that is what we ought to be focused on. Congratulating University of California, Merced

Mr. COSTA. Finally, on an upbeat note, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of California at Merced in my district being named one of the country's universities of the year by Education Dive, which honors education's top innovators. One of the newest research universities in the entire country, it is a testament to UC Merced's forward-thinking approach, which has been integral in increasing opportunity to improve the quality of education for California's San Joaquin Valley and the entire system of the University of California. UC Merced prides itself in having the largest share of low-income, first-generation, and underrepresented students among all the University of California's campuses. It is the first minority-majority campus in California, with over 8,000 students. It has been a pleasure to watch the university grow over the last 13 years and an honor to meet its educators, students, and alumni who make up a tight, close-knit community. Go Bobcats.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend and colleague, Stephen R. Bauman, as he retires from his position as Director of the VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno, California. Throughout his distinguished career with the United States Navy and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Stephen has dedicated his life to public service and the care of our nation's veterans. Stephen has left an indelible mark on the Central Valley through his commitment to the veteran community. Stephen honorably served our country for 36 years in the United States Navy. He is a veteran of the Vietnam War. As a reservist, he was activated in support of Operation Desert Storm and completed a tour in Iraq and Kuwait in 2004 as a Command Master Chief in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He attended Grantham University in Lenexa, Kansas and obtained a bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 2011. Stephen began his career with the Department of Veteran Affairs in 1977 as a staff nurse at the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System. He has served at eight VA facilities throughout his career, including the Northern California Health Care System, Sierra Pacific Network and Los Angeles. He was appointed Director of the VA Central California Health Care System in November 2015. His proven experience and sound leadership qualities made him the perfect fit to guide the Fresno VA. As director, Stephen was responsible for the delivery of health care for approximately 96,000 veterans throughout Central California, with an annual operating budget of $212 million. He oversees both the main campus in Fresno and the outpatient clinics in Tulare, Merced, and Oakhurst, California. My staff and I have had the pleasure of working closely with Director Bauman throughout his tenure. Stephen has gone above and beyond to help veterans in need of assistance in the Central Valley. I commend him for his exemplary work on behalf of the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our great nation. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognition of Director Stephen R. Bauman, in honor of his remarkable career and contributions to the Department of Veteran Affairs. I wish Stephen the very best as he enters a new phase in his life. I ask that you join me in wishing Stephen and his family continued happiness and prosperity.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to raise awareness of a plague affecting our Nation and our world. It is called human trafficking. There are more than 40 million victims worldwide, and it happens in our backyards right here in congressional districts throughout the country. My district, because of the geographic location in California's Central Valley, sees a disproportionately high amount of human trafficking that takes place. Fighting this atrocity requires all of us to come together with a comprehensive strategy. Organizations like Breaking the Chains in my district are needed to support survivors. Law enforcement needs to hold perpetrators accountable. This week as the co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus, Congressman Pete Olson and I are introducing a resolution in the House to support the observation of National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. It is sad that we have to bring this kind of recognition, but it is the reality. This resolution calls for the Federal Government to coordinate its efforts and fight human trafficking between agencies and State and local governments as well as other organizations. We in the Congressional Victims' Rights Caucus will continue to lead and push this effort. We need to work together.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Sheri Bohigian, who passed away on December 20, 2018 at the age of 72. Sheri will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and dedicated member of our community. It is both fitting and appropriate that we honor Sheri for her dedication to our Valley. Sheri was born on November 11, 1946 in Fresno, California to Kent and Nikki Bowlan. Her father was a Colonel in the United States Air Force, which required the family to move frequently. They traveled to Scotland, the Marshall Islands, Alaska, Illinois, Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Traveling became one of Sheri's favorite things to do. Sheri's parents gave her the motivation she needed to help her believe in herself. Her mother's outgoing personality and father's humble traits shaped her into a selfless, eating young lady. These traits went along with her everywhere she went. Sheri attended the University of Missouri, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. She then met the love of her life Tom Bohigian. They were blessed with one son, Stephen. Throughout their marriage Sheri and Tom shared many memorable moments, traveling and camping at Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and Kings Canyon National Park and exploring parts of Europe together. Sheri also enjoyed the company of her many dear friends, frequently hosting dinners and gatherings in her home. Sheri served her community in a number of ways. She was on the Board of Directors and volunteered for the San Joaquin River Parkway. Sheri retired from the San Joaquin Valley Air District after nine years of service. She cared about the world around her and hoped to leave it a better place for generations to come. Sheri is survived by her husband Tom, son Stephen, and many wonderful friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Sheri Bohigian. Sheri leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love and selflessness. It is my honor to stand with Sheri's family in celebration of her great life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California (BBBS) on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. Since its creation, BBBS has assisted in establishing meaningful, professional, and long-lasting relationships between adult volunteers and young adults. Big Brothers of America was created in 1904, by Ernest Kent Coulter. Ernest worked as a children's court clerk in New York City and watched countless young boys shuffle in and out of the courtroom. He believed that if caring adults could guide and help the children, they could stay away from trouble and grow up to become productive members of their community. At the same time, members of the organization Ladies of Charity, were maintaining friendships with young girls who had gone through the New York children's court. This organization would become the Catholic Big Sisters. This growing movement of mentorship brought caring role models into the lives of children across the nation. In 1946, the United States Congress recognized Big Brothers of America as a social welfare organization. The simultaneous growth of the two organizations led to the merging of Big Brothers of America and Big Sisters of America into Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in 1977. Locally, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California has served over 20,000 children and their families. In 1997, satellite offices were opened in Hanford and Madera, to cover an expanded service area of Kings and Madera counties. Expanding yet again, in late 2007 BBBS merged with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tulare County and became the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California to reflect their new region. Today, BBBS Central California serve four counties in the Central Valley and serves over 1,000 children each year through various mentorship programs. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California's 50th anniversary. I commend the service of all past and present members of this organization, who have worked collectively to motivate, promote, support, and educate children and young adults in Central California.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Mrs. Elizabeth ``Betsy'' S. Lucido, who passed away on January 12, 2019 at the age of 75. Betsy will be remembered as a loving wife, mother and for her devotion to God. Betsy cared for many families in need and was a pillar in our community. Her dedication to our Valley will be remembered for years to come. Betsy was born on August 8, 1943 in Cleveland, Ohio to Howard & Irene Tripp. Her family later relocated to Fresno, California, where she attended St. Therese Elementary School and the Convent of the Sacred Heart of Menlo Park High School as a resident student. After high school, she attended the University of San Diego, where she met the love of her life William ``Bill'' Lucido. Betsy and Bill married in Fresno on June 6, 1964. They were blessed with four daughters, Maribeth, Anne, Kate and Monica. Betsy radiated a ``motherly charm'' and was known for her generosity, family values and caring personality. Betsy served her community in a number of ways. She was a board member of the Central California Adoption Services--Infant of Prague, Right to Life of Central California and the Ministers of Presence Guild of Catholic Charities. One accomplishment she was particularly proud of was her role in the founding of Catholic Charities, an organization which serves the needs of those in crisis by providing food for the hungry and hope for the weary. Betsy saw her work as an extension of one's home and love for God. She was always willing to give a helping hand and recognized everyone as a unique child of God. Betsy's active work in the Fresno community has not gone unnoticed. She was honored by the Fresno County Women's Chamber of Commerce as the ``Fresno County Mother of the Year'' in 1998. In 2012, Betsy and Bill were the 2012 honorees at the Right to Life of Central California annual celebration dinner. Betsy is survived by her husband Bill and daughters, Maribeth, Anne, Katie and Monica. She leaves behind her grandchildren Maxwell, Hemy, Logan, Paige, Lindsey, Grace and Corbin, and many close friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Elizabeth ``Betsy'' S. Lucido. Betsy leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love and selflessness, which helped change the lives of countless men and women in our community. It is my honor to stand with Betsy's family in celebration of her great life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, Congressman Garamendi has demonstrated leadership both here in our Nation's capital and when we worked together in Sacramento, and I commend his efforts and thank him for yielding to me. The government shutdown is simply irresponsible. The American public understands that a Congress debates a budget, the President submits his proposal, and we go through our committee hearing process. We make modifications and changes. You win some and you lose some. But by October 1, we are supposed to have a budget sent to the President, and he is supposed to sign it into law. Now, guess what. A budget is among the most important things we do as Members of Congress, and it is the Nation's spending priorities. It is thousands of spending priorities. There are some things we like in the budget, and there are some things that we would change. But our Nation has to have a budget, just like every family has a budget, every business has a budget. In that family budget or the business budget, there are things you would rather not pay--a house payment, a car payment--but we have obligations and commitments to make and have to be responsible. This government shutdown, this manufactured crisis orchestrated by the President in which he proudly proclaimed that he would take ownership of it--they can call it the Trump shutdown, as he said so boldly in December--is the Trump shutdown. It is simply irresponsible. I think the American public, for good reason, regardless of their registration, is frustrated, and I suspect many of them, like myself, are fed up. I went through the airport security this morning as I did last week, as I did the week before, and I thanked those security officers with TSA for doing their job. They are doing their job. And guess what. They are doing it without pay. That is disgraceful. It is just not what the shining democracy of America is about, leader of the free world. But it doesn't stop there. There are over 53,000 TSA employees around the country, 54,000 ICE officers, and 42,000 Coast Guard Active-Duty members who are working without pay. Mr. Speaker, I ask the President, how would it be if he were to suggest to his employees at his hotels and at his golf courses--whom he has to pay every 2 weeks or every month--that he wants them to come to work but he is not going to pay them? It is immoral, and it is certainly not the American way. We don't expect people to come to work and then not pay them. This manufactured crisis--and believe me, it is a manufactured crisis--is the real cause for us all to be concerned about national security. I mean, the challenges we have at the border, these Border Patrol agents, these Coast Guard Active-Duty members are protecting our security, and we are saying: Well, but, you know, we don't care if you have a house payment. We don't care if you have a car payment. We don't care if you have other commitments and obligations. We expect you to come to work and to protect our security, and we are not going to do anything to, in fact, take that into account. In a way, that is clearly a dereliction of our duties. Mr. Speaker, I would say to the President that it is a dereliction of his duty, because he has a responsibility, just as we do, to ensure that our government is fully functioning. We have passed the President's bills and sent them to him which would fully fund and reopen the government. Last Friday, Congressman Cox and I had an informal workshop at the Subway sandwich store in the building where my office is, where I work on behalf of the people of the San Joaquin Valley. In that 10-story office building are 1,300 IRS employees. That Subway sandwich store has lost over 50 percent of its business in the last month. The two owners, the man and the wife, are being impacted. The store in the lobby, it has lost 70 percent of its business. And there is another kabob restaurant in which he is helping, sometimes, the employees who are still hanging around there by giving them sandwiches, but this is his business. So it is not just the direct impact of over 800,000 government employees across this country, people who work for the USDA, the United States Department of Agriculture, who operate the farm service agencies throughout our constituencies. Our farmers, our ranchers, and our dairymen can't go to those Farm Service Agency offices and apply for loans and other things that are important with regard to this crazy tariff war that is taking place because, guess what. Those offices are closed. But it is also the ripple effect for businesses that have contracts with the Federal Government, whether it is with the United States Forest Service or whether it is with other departments and agencies. They are not getting paid. But guess what. They have got employees, and they have got a contract that they signed with the United States Government that says they were going to get paid every month, and they have commitments to their employees. This is the President's shutdown, and 32 days into it, none of us should be proud of where we are today. Third-world countries are looking at us and wondering: America doesn't do that. But we are looking like a third-world country. Countries around the world just don't shut down their government. Let me close on this note. This is a phenomena that has happened, really, in the last 8 years. We had a government shutdown in the mid- 1990s by President Clinton and Speaker Gingrich, and that was not a good thing. Normally, as Congressman Garamendi suggested, you have budget requests. You have debate in committees. You pass segments of the budget, and it comes together in an orderly process. Ultimately, both the House and the Senate pass that budget and send it to the President by October 1. I think there is another principle here that we need to be very clear about to the American public. I don't care which party it is. We should not allow bad behavior to be rewarded in this sense. If you don't like something in the budget--and there are a lot of things I don't like in the budget--at the end of the day, you have got to have a budget. What is happening here is that this is a manufactured crisis that the President is using to hold hostage a campaign promise he made 2 years ago to build this wall. By the way, Mr. Speaker, wasn't Mexico going to pay for the wall?

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I was in Puerto Rico last weekend, and the recovery funding is a serious matter, as it is in Paradise. It is simply wrong. It is wrong and immoral for us to do this.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I think until the end of February, which would allow us to debate appropriate border security in a committee process in the House and in the Senate, working together with this administration and the President. There would be give and take. There would be compromises. I think we should get back to doing the people's business in an appropriate fashion, without taking hostages, because it is simply wrong. We should not let the American public think that we have lost sight of what the regular order of the United States Congress is to pass appropriations bills and, ultimately, to pass a budget. That is where this incredibly egregious activity is taking place in recent years. I think we know that, at some point, there will be a series of compromises, and we will reopen government. So why don't we just do it sooner rather than later and end the pain and anguish of hundreds of thousands of people who are protecting our security--they are hardworking men and women of our country--without paychecks? All the other independent contractors who do business with the government and who have employees or have small businesses, like that Subway sandwich shop in Fresno or the market or the kabob restaurant, let these people do what they do best--work hard and make a living for themselves and their families, and contribute to our economy--because what we are doing right now is wrong.

Mr. COSTA. And the ripple effect.

Mr. COSTA. To our national parks. Mr. Speaker, let me close by underlining one comment that Mr. Garamendi made earlier. I know, as a member of the Armed Services Committee, the gentleman is one of our leaders as it relates to our Nation's security. And I am engaged with a host of other efforts in our Foreign Affairs Committee and with our European allies. When the gentleman said that no one could be happier about this series of events than the President of Russia, President Putin, let me underline that, because we are doing to ourselves what the Soviet Union and Russia today have never been able to do to us, which is undermine our security, undermine NATO's security, and undermine the security of the free world. That is how serious this is. This manufactured crisis has now risen to such a level that we are doing to ourselves what our adversaries have never been able to do to us through decades of Republican and Democratic Presidents and Congresses in which, at the water's edge, we all bind together because it is America's security. I don't know how they celebrate in Moscow, but right now, they must be very pleased this evening, with smiles on their faces, as we look at the 32 days of this government shutdown.

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I say to Congressman Garamendi, that is what I heard.

Mr. COSTA. I heard it not once, not twice, but more times than I care to remember. Clearly, Mexico is not going to pay for the wall. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Garamendi and I know that there is bipartisan willingness to improve border security. The gentleman and I know, because we are from California, that the majority of the drug trafficking and the other crimes that are occurring are through what we call ports of legal entry. That sounds like a complicated technical term, but it just means it is an open border crossing between the U.S. and Mexico, and thousands of people cross every day at many of these border crossings. That is where the overwhelming majority of the illegal trafficking is taking place, and along the ocean. And no bill, no bright and shiny 30-foot wall, will make a difference. El Chapo, whom we are holding now in prison, built tunnels to get out of prison. There are tunnels under existing walls that the President was briefed on when he went down to the border last week. Mr. Speaker, I don't care how the wall is built, because it is not going to improve border security. Mind you, we have more than 500 miles of existing barriers and fences at the San Ysidro border, and some of the other portions of the U.S.- Mexican border, where it makes sense. Certainly, I am willing to provide support to improve those existing barriers and to provide the sort of equipment, drones, and other technical devices that are cutting edge, that Border Patrol agents and ICE agents say will improve our border security. That is what we should be doing. But what we should not be doing is holding America hostage because of a political campaign promise that was made 2 years ago. That is wrong. That is simply wrong. Mr. Speaker, Congressman Garamendi is to be commended for taking a leadership role in this effort. We have to do some things here that change the debate and how we produce a budget so that we don't allow groups of either party--our extreme elements--to decide: Well, gee, I am not going to go through the regular process. I will hold this Congress and I will hold the American people hostage. This is impacting our GDP. If the President doesn't believe us, he should ask his own Council of Economic Advisers, because they came out with a report last week. It is not affecting only our economy, but it, therefore, affects the world's economy. That is why we need to reopen government and have a thoughtful debate on how we can, on a bipartisan basis, improve our border security. Of the $1.2 million we allocated in last year's budget for border security, this administration, I am told, has spent around 10 percent of that $1.2 billion. Now we were going to give him another $1.6 billion. Then the President--I know we are getting close to the Super Bowl--to use a football analogy, on December 18, when we thought we had an agreement, he decided to move the goalposts. I can't say it any plainer than that. Mr. Speaker, I ask Congressman Garamendi if he can.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of my longtime friend Mr. Randy Ghan, who passed away on December 7, 2018 at the age of 67. Randy will be remembered as a dedicated and committed labor leader and advocate for worker rights in the Central Valley. Randy worked tirelessly to ratify the Central Labor Council, creating one of the strongest labor councils in California. He dedicated his life to the labor movement and is known as a labor icon. Randy was born on November 5, 1951 in Fresno, California to Irene Kuns and Melvin Ghan. He attended Humboldt State University. Randy's labor career began when he joined the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers Union and Local 85 (Bakers 85) at the Perfection Macaroni factory in Fresno. Randy was elected as the first shop steward in the history of the factory when he was just 20 years old. His efficiency and passion to succeed earned him a position on the union bargaining team. While on the bargaining team, Randy showed strong work ethic and was offered a job with the union and joined the executive board of the Central Labor Council (CLC). After being on the executive board of the CLC for 15 years, Randy ran for Secretary-Treasurer (CEO) and won with the support from his allies in UFCW 1288 and SEIU 752. Randy took on the position when the CLC was struggling financially and he successfully revamped the organization. Randy got CLC out of debt by affiliating dozens of new unions and brokering deals to save money and build political capacity. Today, the CLC stands as one of the best funded labor councils in California. One of Randy's proudest accomplishments was the creation of the CLC Partnership, which provides employment readiness services to workers across Fresno. The joint efforts of CLC, Propath and Regenerate California Innovation has assisted numerous people in finding gainful employment. In an act of kindness and true leadership, Randy gave his salary for the hours worked in the partnership to hire additional staff at the CLC. In appreciation of his years of hard work, Randy was recognized as Labor Leader of the Year by the CLC in 1992 and 2017. He was the only labor leader to ever receive this honor twice. Randy was preceded in death by his loving partner Sharon Hodson. He leaves behind his sister Judy, daughters Maria and Tracey, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and many friends. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and achievements of my friend Randy Ghan. Randy leaves a legacy of advocacy and selflessness to improve the lives of so many in the Valley. He will be missed dearly by those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the achievements of Mr. Joel Nelsen, the recipient of the 2018 Distinguished Citizen Award from the Sequoia Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Joel is being honored for his many years outstanding civic service to the community and agriculture industry. Joel has exemplified what it means to be a leader in the community through his involvement and dedication to the Central Valley. Joel was born in San Diego, California. He served four years in the United States Navy before graduating from California State University, Fullerton, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Joel began his career in agriculture with the Fresh Produce Council in Los Angeles. He eventually was recruited to work in the Central Valley's agriculture industry, joining California Citrus Mutual as Executive Officer in 1982. For over 30 years, Joel has been on the forefront of various issues affecting the produce, citrus, and agriculture industries. As a result, he was appointed President of California Citrus Mutual, overseeing association's 2,200 members. Joel has demonstrated a significant level of involvement in the community through his career. He is Vice-Chair of the United States Citrus Science Council. Joel has also been appointed to four terms on USDA's Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade, and in 2015 he was selected by his colleagues to be chairman of the committee. In addition, Joel is the founding Chairman for the Agri-Business Presidents' Council, a member of the University of California President's Advisory Commission on Agriculture and Natural Resources and serves on the Executive Committee for the Citrus Health Response Program. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives join me in recognizing Mr. Joel Nelsen, recipient of the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Sequoia Council of the Boy Scouts of America. I ask that you join me in wishing Joel and his family continued success and prosperity.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of Les Wright, on the occasion of his retirement as Fresno County's Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer of Weights and Measures. Les' final day as Agricultural Commissioner will be January 25, 2019. This is the culmination of a successful 27-year civil service, leadership and management career throughout the State of California. Les, a native of Modoc County, earned his Associates degree in Production Agriculture from Shasta College. He began his career in government in 1976, serving at a border inspection station. With a background as a rancher, it did not take long for Les to realize his true passion was in agriculture. He quickly rose up the ranks, serving as the Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer for Modoc County, Deputy Commissioner of Kings County and Chief Deputy Commissioner of Fresno County. He was appointed Fresno County's Agricultural Commissioner on August 5, 2013. As the Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner, Les' primary objective is to promote and protect the county's multibillion-dollar agricultural industry. In his role, he oversees the number one agriculture producing county in the nation. Fresno County produces over 350 types of crops and is known to many as the breadbasket of the world. He is passionate about his work and serves as advocate for growers through the county. Passion for the agricultural industry run deep in the Wright household, as Les' wife Marilyn Kinoshita-Wright is also retiring this month from her position as Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Les Wright for his career achievements as Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner. Les will leave a robust foundation for Fresno County to continue to build upon. I wish Les and his wife Marilyn the very best as they enter this new phase of their life.

Mr. COSTA

Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the irresponsible government shutdown that is hurting people not only in my district, but throughout California and our Nation. There is no good reason for our government to be shut down. As national leaders, one of the most important responsibilities as Members of Congress is, in fact, to pass a budget every year on time and always to keep government open. But since 2010, we have seen a phenomena take place where groups on both sides think, well, there can be justification to shut down government for an agenda, usually politically motivated, and put all of our other responsibilities aside. Over half the Members of Congress have been here less than 6 years. I say this government shutdown, any government shutdown, is irresponsible. We are supposed to have a budget for our country, like every family has a budget and every business has a budget. When the government shuts down, people suffer, families suffer, veterans suffer, all Americans suffer. Approximately 800,000 Federal employees are currently furloughed or working without pay across the country. Last Friday, in my home State of California, over 37,000 Federal employees did not receive their paychecks. That is irresponsible. Yesterday was payday for the United States Coast Guard. Protecting our seas throughout our Nation is a vital part of America's national security. They got a paycheck with a printed ``0'' on it for their wage. Our national parks are operating without full staff or guides. We have had, already, Americans die as a result of the shutdown, one in Yosemite close to my district. The government shutdown is putting Americans in danger in other ways as well. By shutting down the government, the President is making border security--supposedly the reason for all of this--more difficult and has stopped paying key law enforcement personnel, including Customs and Border Protection officers, Federal prosecutors, immigration judges, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, and members, as I said earlier, of the Coast Guard. This is a manufactured crisis in order to pursue a political agenda. It is just not right. It is not the way our government is supposed to function. Within the United States, Homeland Security investigation agents who investigate human trafficking, drug smuggling, and transnational criminal gangs are working without pay. Does that make any sense? I thought this was supposed to be about national security. We ought to be paying these folks. The Department of Justice has stopped processing discretionary grants that support State and local law enforcement, which is critical, I can tell you, in California, where we have many of these challenges. I have been listening to the people back home. That is our job. We are supposed to listen. For 25 days now, the shutdown has been hurting the people of San Joaquin Valley. Middle-class families are suffering. We have IRS officers and large numbers of Federal employees in my district who are working or not working, and they are not receiving paychecks. Many of these individuals have shared that they don't even know how they are going to be able to feed their children or pay their mortgage or their car payment, because the majority of families live--what?-- from paycheck-to-paycheck. In fact, a group of Federal employees in my district is at the point of needing to take out loans and trying to find other jobs--which makes no sense--to keep themselves and their families afloat. And the pain radiates, broadly affecting our local economies. Small businesses in downtown Fresno, Madera, Merced, and many other communities throughout my district are being impacted, along with the Federal officers who are involved in the United States Department of Agriculture and the ability to operate their offices. And there are those who contract with the government who are looking at not receiving paychecks. It is affecting our Nation's economy. And there is clear proof of that. Mr. Speaker, this harm must stop. Let me say it again. There is no good reason for a government shutdown. We have our differences, to be sure, and we ought to be negotiating those differences on border security and other matters. On December 18, the Senate passed a bipartisan agreement, unanimously, to keep the government open that was acceptable to both Chambers and the President, and it did not include funding for a border wall. The next day, the President changed his mind. This shutdown is not about securing our border, but it is about consistently providing funding to improve our border security, and we can do that. We should do that. I urge my colleagues to get to work. The American people expect better.