Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend from California for her brilliant leadership on this very important matter. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bill, the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2020. I am proud to cosponsor this long-overdue proposal to end brutality in law enforcement and to address the systemic racism that has marred American law enforcement for too long. With this legislation, we finally say enough is enough. We have had enough of racial and religious profiling. We have had enough of no- knock warrants and chokeholds. We have had enough of qualified immunity and enough of police using military-grade equipment on our streets. This bill will help us move from, frankly, a culture of impunity all too often in our law enforcement entities to a culture of accountability. We serve the public, whether we are in law enforcement or whether in the Halls of Congress. This bill reaffirms that principle in a democracy. I am proud to support it in the memory of the murdered George Floyd.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, their priority is corporate liability. Ours is helping to save a nation. They say wait. Wait for what? The virus to stop spreading? It won't. Wait for another 36 million Americans to have to file for unemployment? Wait for another million businesses to collapse? For another 86,000 Americans to die? The time to act is now if we are going to save this economy and protect public health and safety, not to dither, not to wait. The virus won't.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I don't know what my friend from Indiana is talking about. I do know this: Thank God the Democrats insisted that this bill help the small businesses intended to be supported. Too many big guys got supported over the little guys, and that is what we are trying to fight for today. Second point, we have got to help State and local governments. They cannot be allowed to go bankrupt. That is social Darwinism at its worst. And, thirdly, we have got to help our postal workers and the Postal Service who serve all Americans.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, America is bleeding. America is in deep suffering and even deeper anxiety, and it counts on its Congress to respond with alacrity, thoughtfulness, and action. We have no time to dither. We have no time to engage in ideological or petty partisan fights. Our country needs us as one. Mr. Speaker, 3.28 million people filed for unemployment last week. In my State, that translated into a 17-fold increase in 1 week. The number of coronavirus victims quadrupled in that time period in my State, and those figures are reflected throughout the country. Now is the time to come together. Now is the time to show our fellow countrymen that we can rise to this occasion and re-instill in them the hope and confidence that will come.

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Cox).

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Soto).

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Golden).

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to my distinguished colleague from Massachusetts (Mrs. Trahan).

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, Americans are scared. We are in the midst of the worst public health pandemic in more than 100 years. Across our country, more than 85,000 Americans have now been touched by coronavirus, and more than one thousand lives have been lost. Loved ones are making the difficult and heartbreaking choice to be absent from grandparents and elderly mothers and fathers, so that they don't get exposed to this deadly virus. Our hospitals and medical first responders are doing heroic work, but worry they can't meet the demands that may walk through the door tomorrow. Schools have been shuttered, while moms and dads are forced to figure out how to continue on and bring some normalcy to this new way of life. Businesses and restaurants are struggling, and many have been forced to close or lay-off workers. Just yesterday, we got our first glimpse into the devastating unemployment outlook--3.3 million Americans applied for assistance last week. We have all heard these stories of this painful new reality. Our communities are reeling. They are seeking leadership, guidance, truth, empathy, assistance and most of all, hope for a better tomorrow. We need to be all of those things for our constituents--and this package is another important step. Nothing in life is ever perfect and this bill is no exception. But we cannot make perfect be the enemy of the good. There's much I would like added to this legislation, there are offensive provisions I'd like deleted. But the balance of aid to a hurting nation demands we act and act now. We are providing unprecedented unemployment insurance and a lifeline during this trying time to those who have lost their job. This package provides billions of dollars to hospitals and first responders so that they have the personal protective gear, ventilators, and the medical supplies they need to meet this crisis. Nearly every family will receive a direct payment to help cover rent, or groceries, or just make ends meet. Small businesses will have resources so that they can hopefully remain open and keep their employees on payroll. States and localities will see an infusion of federal investment to cover the challenges they face in providing for our neighbors. But our work is not done. The Postal Service, which every American relies on for prescription drugs, care packages, and critical services, is in crisis and must be addressed. States and local communities who are the frontlines will require more assistance. We must continue to meet those needs. This bill is Congress' reaffirmation of the unstinting strength of the American people, a clarion statement in our faith in the future, a clear and forceful renewal in our unshakeable belief that our country will rise from the present travail, tested, resilient and renewed.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I thank my good friend, the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, and I thank my friend, the ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, for their good work. I understand we have a difference of opinion, and I do deeply respect my friend from Texas and his substantive and thoughtful contributions to our foreign policy debate in our committee, but I must disagree with the argument that we ought to be focused on only one thing right now. As grave as the coronavirus crisis is--and I would be happy to talk about that and the missteps of this administration in making it worse-- Congress is the people's body. We are here defending the legislative branch of government and its constitutional role on matters of war and peace. What could be more serious? The fact that we are here the third time doesn't make it any less grave or serious. It underlines the importance of the issue and the fact that many of us in this body are going to continue to be here on the floor until Congress reasserts the role the chairman outlined for us that is the constitutional role. We have allowed way too much power to gravitate to the executive branch. We have abrogated our responsibilities here in Congress for decades. We like having it both ways. We tsk-tsk when the executive branch, we think, crosses the line, but we don't want to take responsibility for it. This resolution asks Congress to do just that: stand up and take responsibility, while holding the executive branch accountable. President Trump ordered a provocative and disproportionate drone strike that killed the Iranian Quds Forces commander, Major General Qasem Soleimani, a bad actor, but that begs the question: Should we have done it? And, oh, by the way, what level of consultation and intelligence ought to be shared with the legislative branch that has constitutional responsibility for matters of war and peace? We know the administration had to do some fast footwork to rationalize why now, why him, why there, and, oh, by the way, what are the consequences of doing that? In all of those questions, even with a formal briefing of Congress, the administration simply did not have good answers. In fact, they had contradictory answers. Taking Soleimani out, my friend from Texas says, was a good thing. Well, it is not without consequences. We evacuated nonessential personnel from Iraq as a consequence of that move because of the terror threat. One hundred U.S. military personnel suffered brain damage or head damage because of the retaliatory strikes on the U.S. base in Iraq. These things have consequences.

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, reining in the administration is the right thing to do until and unless we get answers and debate and intelligence provided to the legislative branch for justification as we move forward. The idea that we are not at war with Iran so it is actually a redundant or unnecessary conversation, I think, is not an argument. In fact, now is precisely the time to constrain the executive branch, to set boundaries, to make sure they understand that Congress reasserting itself will set boundaries and legitimate barriers for proceeding down that road without first coming to the legislative branch as, indeed, Franklin Delano Roosevelt did in 1941, walking right down, with great difficulty, that aisle, asking Congress to declare war; and, indeed, Congress listened and responded. That is how it ought to work.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize my dear and longtime friend Brad Gordon on the occasion of his retirement, concluding a career of dedicated public service and advocacy spanning more than 40 years. Brad Gordon has personified excellence throughout his career. He graduated cum laude and with Honors in Politics from Brandeis University in 1971. He went on to earn a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Vermont, a Master of Philosophy from Columbia University, and a Certificate from their Middle East Institute. While at Columbia, Brad was a National Defense Foreign Language Fellow in Arabic, while also serving as a Research Assistant. By 1979 he had begun his career in public service, working for the Central Intelligence Agency as a Political Analyst in the Office of Near Eastern and South Asian Analysis. Brad spent 6 years at the CIA before he transitioned to a legislative role as both a foreign policy advisor for Senator Rudy Boschwitz (R- MN), and as a professional staff member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where I had the privilege of also serving. Based on his wealth of foreign policy knowledge and experience, Brad was appointed the Assistant Director of the U.S. Arms Control and Disarmament Agency for Nonproliferation Policy. During his tenure, he served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Fourth Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons in Geneva. He was responsible for issues related to the proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. In 1993, Brad became the Staff Director of the International Operations Subcommittee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, where he helped oversee the operations of the State Department, the Agency for International Development, the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency, and the U.S. Information Agency. In 1995, Brad started working on constituent and issue advocacy as the Legislative Director of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). He went on to serve as the Director of Policy and Government Affairs and eventually as the Director for Strategic Policy at AIPAC. Throughout his career, Brad was an asset to all those around him. His intelligence, veracity, unflagging work ethic, persistence, and quality of character are unquestionable.' Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating my friend, Brad Gordon on his retirement and in wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize an individual who has made enormous contributions to our global community, Mr. Syed Babar Ali, who will be celebrating his 94th birthday this year. In celebration of this occasion, it is only fitting that I and my colleagues take a moment to reflect and recognize some of the contributions he has made throughout his life. Mr. Ali was born in Lahore, Pakistan in 1926 to prominent businessman Syed Maratib Ali and his wife Syeda Mubarik Begum, who was descended from the Afghan royal family. Mr. Ali learned the secrets of creating and managing successful businesses at the side of his father whose company was one of the largest contractors to the British Army during the colonial occupation of Pakistan, then still part of India. Mr. Ali began his education at Aitchison College in Lahore but soon relocated to the United States to continue his education at the University of Michigan. He had not been there long when the partition of India occurred and the newly independent nation of Pakistan was formed. Looking to use his skills to help his homeland, he returned to Pakistan in 1947, completing his education at the University of Punjab. As a visionary and entrepreneur, Mr. Ali began his business career shortly after graduation, joining his family in a cotton exporting business. As he strove to increase exports, he recognized a need for a packaging company and founded Packages Unlimited which became Pakistan's largest paper and board mill. He was also the founder of Milkpak Limited, now Nestle Pakistan Limited, which grew to become the largest food processing company in Pakistan. An advocate of joint ventures, he created partnerships with well-known foreign and international companies including Coca-Cola, Nestle, Tetra Pak (Sweden) and Mitsubishi, among others. After Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was elected President of Pakistan, the country began nationalizing many industries causing Mr. Ali's family to lose five of their six large businesses including their automotive and insurance businesses. Mr. Ali later reflected that these experiences helped teach him how to build and run a business from the ground up. During this time, Mr. Ali began to realize that Pakistan needed a school of management to train managers and entrepreneurs, not only to benefit the individual students but to ensure the future prosperity of the entire country. While studying at Harvard Business School, he sought the advice of faculty to guide him on how the school he wanted to establish should be set up. His driving force was to create an educational system capable of producing economic managers and creative thinkers--two things which were greatly needed in the country that at the time, was then experiencing economic growth and political upheaval. Supported by a $10 million grant from USAID and the patronage of the Pakistani business-industrial community, Mr. Ali founded Lahore University of Management and Science, now known by its acronym LUMS. From its beginning as a business school, LUMS has expanded its programs which now include liberal arts, science and engineering, economics, computer sciences, education and law. In 2011, LUMS launched the National Outreach Programme to reach bright students from underprivileged areas of Pakistan. Under this initiative, selected candidates are brought into academic programs to prepare them for acceptance to the university. LUMS provides full financial assistance to those who enter this program. Financial assistance for other students include generous scholarships and interest-free loans. Mr. Ali has also contributed to the betterment of Pakistan and the world in ways beyond business and education. In 1993, he served as Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and Planning for Pakistan's caretaker government and has served the World Wildlife Fund International in various capacities including President. In 1985 he established the Babar Ali Foundation that contributes approximately $1 million each year primarily to education and health initiatives in Pakistan. In recognition of his efforts and countless contributions, he has received honors and awards from the governments of Sweden and the Netherlands, an Order of the British Empire Award (OBE), and an honorary Doctorate Degree of Law from McGill University. These successes would perhaps not have been possible without the support of his beloved wife of 65 years Perwin, his children Henna and Hyder, and his grandchildren Mubarik, Zehra, Murtaza and Gauhar. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating this remarkable individual on his 94th birthday and in wishing him and his family continued health and happiness.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce and to congratulate the incoming 2020 board members. Tysons has drastically transformed during the past 56 years from a sleepy, rural area to one of the most vibrant regions in the country. This change began when the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved plans for the Tysons Corner Shopping Center in 1962. When the mall opened in 1968, it was hailed as the largest enclosed mall in the world. Since then, there has been a dramatic influx of technology companies, government contracting firms, and other corporations. Tysons has become the premier business district of the Washington Metropolitan Area and is one of the largest employment centers in the United States. With the opening of Metro's Silver Line and ongoing redevelopment, the region is expected to continue adding not only businesses but also high-density residential housing. 45 million square feet of transit-oriented development is already present in Tysons and more is on the way. The mission of the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce is to be the unified voice of the business community while ensuring that its ties and commitment to the community are strengthened. The Chamber actively promotes local non-profits and community organizations as well as youth educational programs, and it sponsors multiple events each year in support of these activities. The growth of the Chamber has been the result of the diversity of its members and the leadership of its Board. I am pleased to include in the Record the following names of the incoming 2020 board members: Chairman of the Board: Tucker Gladhill. At-Large Members: Adelle Elia, Alex Levy, Andrew Clark, Angela Inzerillo, Anthony Anikeeff, Brenda MacRoberts, Courtney Pierce, Diana Villarreal, Dr. Michelle Walker, Gina Westfall, Jeff Brouse, Kara Shelton, Kathy McNeill, Ken Fischer, Kevin Corey, Kevin Schafer, Maureen Caufield, Maurice Springer, Miriam Tadross, Micah Edmond, Mike Batt, Peter Fish, Richard Luttrell, Timothy Klinkner, Tracy Harris, Vicki Warker. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the incoming board members and in commending the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce for its commitment to promoting the business community while encouraging social responsibility and civic engagement. I wish the Chamber the very best for its continued growth and success.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the incoming 2020 officers of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department. OWLVFD is located in Prince William County Virginia, 25 miles from our Nation's Capital. The OWLVFD goes on an average of 20,000 runs per year, aiding 80,000 residents in a 27 square mile area. Incorporated in the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1938, the OWLVFD is comprised of committed community members who volunteer their time, energy, and financial resources to ensuring the safety of the families and property in and around Woodbridge. During its 80-year history, the Department has continued to expand and there are now three stations staffed by approximately 250 volunteers who serve and protect an ever- growing local population. From their bravery in action, to their presence with the youth in the community, OWLVFD is readily available for the families of Woodbridge. It is with great honor I enter into the Record the names of the following Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department Officers: Department Chief--Rick Michael Department President--David Williams Executive Vice President--George Smith Membership Secretary--Scott Shaw Treasurer--Debra Haight Board of Directors--Jonathan Baldwin, Mike Clark, Anna Smith, Rebecca Barnes, Michele Bauer, Melissa Payne, Zachary Wessolleck, Kevin Lewis Election Officer--Sabrina Brandon Ricks Sergeant-At-Arms--Thomas Hubbard Assistant Chiefs--Kurt Bolland, Ernest DeSantis, Steve Godin, Wayne Haight, Ryan Williams Rescue Chief--Edward Craig Fire Captains--Kody Perry, Justin Witt Rescue Captain--Sandra Williams Fire Lieutenants--Mark Chandler, Jonathan Baldwin EMS Lieutenants--Melissa Westphal, Sybil Meeley, Michael Yankaskas, Mark Powers. While a new executive board has been elected and new officers sworn in, the mission of OWLVFD remains the same. The volunteers of the OWLVFD continue to put themselves in harm's way for the benefit of the residents of the area and have educated and mentored the youth in Woodbridge, not only teaching fire safety education, but also strengthening community relations. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleague join me in recognizing the men and women of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department for their service to our country and steadfast commitment to their community and in congratulating the newly elected officers and board members. I thank them for their dedication and to all I say: ``Stay safe.''

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the service and dedication of Chief James McAllister of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department. Chief McAllister is retiring from the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department following nearly three decades of service to our community. Chief McAllister joined OWLVFD in June of 1991. Throughout his years of service Chief McAllister has served the department in every operational role. He has been a Firefighter, Medic, and for the last 11 years he has led the department as its Chief. Under his steadfast leadership, the department has continued to grow and expand, along with the community it serves. The OWLVFD is one of the largest volunteer departments in the country with almost 300 volunteer members and three fire stations. It provides fire suppression, EMS care and rescue services to 80,000 residents who live and work in a 27 square mile area. Last year, the department responded to more than 8,000 911- emergency calls which resulted in nearly 20,000 runs. In addition to his duties leading the department, he has served the county through his participation on many committees, task forces, and the Prince William County Fire and Rescue Association. His achievements, successes and dedication are made even more inspiring by the fact that all of his work has been as a dedicated volunteer. In recognition of his commitment and his 28-year career, it is my great honor to recognize Chief James McAllister of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me once again in congratulating Chief James McAllister for his 28-years of service to OWLVFD. His positive contributions, and dedicated service to our community can never be repaid. We thank Chief McAllister, and we wish him the best in retirement.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the recipients of the 2020 Dale City Civic Association awards. With the core values of compassion and a true sense of community, Dale City Civic Association honors community members who are making a positive impact in their city. The Dale City Civic Association stages this annual banquet to honor those in their community who have gone above and beyond the call in their service to our community. This banquet and the awards serve a strong purpose by helping strengthen the community's foundation and welcoming neighborhoods in Dale City. Improving the quality of life in Dale City for their residents is the goal of the Dale City Civic Association and these award recipients have made that goal much more achievable. From teachers to public safety officials, to those who volunteer in their free time, these civil servants show why it is imperative to have individuals like them who selflessly dedicate their time and efforts to make sure their community is prepared for the challenges of the day while laying the groundwork for a better tomorrow. Their great work should be a model to us all, and it is my honor to enter into the Record the following honorees of the 2020 Dale City Civic Association Award: High School Teacher of the Year: Jason Brown Middle School Teacher of the Year: Kristen Morris Elementary School Teacher of the Year: Toni Brown DCFVD Firefighter of the Year: Technician Peter Langone DCVFD Cadet of the Year: Cadet Majd Mansour DCVFD Officer of the Year: Sergeant Andrew Kelly DCVFD EMS Provider of the Year: Sergeant Joseph Krimmer Kathleen Seefeldt Community Service Award: Sharon Stone Business of the Year: One Stop Awards & Apparel David G. Brickley Youth Environmental and Conservation Award: Michele Aguilar-Flores Deloris C. Hampton Future Teacher Memorial Scholarship: Daniela Avelar Deputy Sheriff of the Year: Deputy Nieves ``Gladys'' Russell Police Officer of the Year: Officer Tyler Reza Kathie Feeney Nurse of the Year: Matthew Blackington PWC Department of Fire and Rescue--Firefight Provider of the Year: Technician I Damian Lyles PWC Department of Fire and Rescue--EMT Provider of the Year: Technician II Yasmin Ahmady Ernestine S. Jenkins Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award: Marilyn Avery Catherine Spellane Citizen of the Year: Marilyn Sykes John D. Jenkins Youth Citizen of the Year Award: Camy Diaz. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me once again in congratulating these recipients of the 2020 Dale City Civic Association awards. I thank them for their immense contributions to our community and wish them continued success.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I thank my good friend from California for his leadership, especially in bringing before us the Protecting the Right to Organize Act of 2019. Right now, in my home State, the Virginia General Assembly is engaged in a big debate about whether to repeal the right-to-work laws that have dominated our State for so many years, a repeal I have long supported. That is why, today, I am proud to stand with my good friend and fellow Virginian, Chairman Bobby Scott, in supporting this bill, the Protecting the Right to Organize Act. Unions have been the backbone of a just and equitable economy. Their hard work gave us the 5-day workweek. Their hard work gave us safer working conditions. Their hard work helps deliver fair wages and better access to healthcare. But this isn't just an economic issue. It is also a question of civil rights. Society itself is freer when workers are empowered to band together and negotiate for better pay, benefits, and working conditions. I might say, even in those States that are not right-to-work States, it is hard to organize, but when you impose a right-to-work law, then you have really stacked the odds in the ability of working men and women to organize themselves. This is Black History Month, and I am reminded of these words from Dr. Martin Luther King: ``In our glorious fight for civil rights, we must guard against being fooled by false slogans, such as `right-to- work.' . . . Wherever these laws have been passed, wages are lower, job opportunities are fewer, and there are no civil rights. We do not intend to let them do this to us. We demand this fraud be stopped. Our weapon is our vote.'' Dr. King was right. Our weapon is our vote, and today, we are going to exercise that weapon and strike a blow for working men and women and for restoring the constitutional right of working men and women to organize freely and benefit this economy and benefit the quality of lives for people in communities all across this great land. Madam Speaker, I thank my friend from California for giving me the time. I urge passage of the bill, and I support the rule underlying it.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, on behalf of myself and my colleague, Rep. Jennifer Wexton (VA-11), I rise to recognize Nacha, and to congratulate them on their recent designation as one of the 2020 Best Places to Work in Virginia by the Virginia Business and Best Companies Group. Determined by a statewide survey competition, the annual list honors the best places of employment in Virginia. A testament to their commitment to success in this area, this is the second consecutive year Nacha has been named to the list. Nacha's designation as one of the 2020 Best Places to Work in Virginia is a fitting acknowledgement of their many contributions to Virginia's economy, workforce, and business community. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Nacha proudly employs 66 Virginians, and three of their 43 Direct Members are based in the Commonwealth: Navy Federal Credit Union, Capital One, and ePayResources. Nacha serves as trustee of the Automated Clearing House (ACH) Network, enabling payments such as direct deposit and direct payment via ACH. Today, Nacha's work is more important than ever, as more than 80 percent of U.S. workers now receive their regular pay using Direct Deposit via ACH, and consumers now pay 800 million bills each month with Direct Payment via ACH. 24.7 billion ACH payments, valued at a total of $55.8 trillion, moved across the ACH Network in 2019 alone, the fifth straight year to see a gain of more than one billion payments. Rep. Wexton and I are thrilled to recognize Nacha's commitment to creating and fostering an award-winning work environment in Northern Virginia, and we commend them on their efforts to strengthen the ACH Network. We are proud to represent in Congress many employees of one of the 2020 Best Places to Work in Virginia. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join us in recognizing Nacha's successes, and in congratulating them on the well-deserved honor of being named one of the 2020 Best Places to Work in Virginia.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend and distinguished chair of the Oversight and Reform Committee. Boy, what you just heard from my friend from North Carolina couldn't be further from the truth. This is not a taxpayer bailout. Quite the opposite. It is exactly what Mr. DeFazio, my friend from Oregon, described. This is righting a wrong Congress created in the dead of night in a lameduck session in 2006 in putting a burden on the Postal Service no other entity on the planet is required to meet. And we have an obligation, having created that problem, to fix it. That is what we are trying to do with this bill. It is not a panacea. That is why we are working on bipartisan legislation to have a comprehensive reform bill that will address a significant amount of time for the Postal Service to build a new business model. My friend, my other friend from North Carolina (Mr. Meadows)--I was referring to the other North Carolinian--has been working diligently with us on a bipartisan basis for many years to try to find just the right fix. I am looking forward to that bipartisan solution. But that doesn't mean we stop everything and fix nothing. This may not return the Postal Service to solvency, but it takes a liability off the books that is real, that hurts them, that makes it harder for them to recover and to figure out how to adjust to changes in technology and the marketplace, and that is why I support this bill. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to its passage on a bipartisan basis, and I hope that we will fold this bill, the concept of this bill, into a larger, more comprehensive bill. As the distinguished chairwoman said, we need a comprehensive approach to the Postal Service after we address and fix this problem that Congress created.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. I salute my partner and friend on our subcommittee, Mr. Meadows. He chaired the subcommittee in the previous Congress, and I was his ranking member. We have reversed roles, but our partnership continues, especially in trying to modernize the Federal Government and bringing it into the 21st century in terms of information technology. We know that when we don't make those investments, bad things can happen. We just saw that the other night in the Iowa caucus. H.R. 3941 codifies the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, known as FedRAMP, established in 2011 to provide a cost- effective, risk-based approach for the adoption and use of cloud computing technologies within the Federal Government. FedRAMP standardizes security requirements for the authorization and ongoing cybersecurity assessments of cloud services for information systems across the Federal Government. In short, FedRAMP seeks to reduce the redundancies of Federal cloud migration and to help agencies quickly adopt cloud technologies. I am also happy to say that FedRAMP has the approval of this administration. Last June, the Trump administration issued its Federal cloud computing strategy called Cloud Smart, which reaffirmed its support for FedRAMP. The Cloud Smart strategy acknowledged the importance of FedRAMP in helping agencies modernize their information technology systems. Cloud Smart also highlighted improvements the program has implemented over the past few years that have resulted in a drastically reduced timeframe for providing a provisional authorization to operate a cloud service provider. However, the administration also noted that there is still lack of reciprocity across agencies in taking advantage of FedRAMP-authorized products. Without that reciprocity, agencies end up duplicating the assessment process of cloud service offerings, leading to time delays and inefficiencies for both the Federal Government and the providers. In July, the Subcommittee on Government Operations held a hearing to look at what the GSA has done right in administering the program and the ways in which FedRAMP can and should be improved. The message both from agency and industry witnesses was clear. FedRAMP is an important program that, if carried out effectively and efficiently, saves money for both agencies and businesses hoping to provide those services. The FedRAMP Authorization Act codifies the program and addresses many of the concerns raised in July by both the administration and private- sector witnesses. First, the bill reduces duplication of security assessments and other obstacles to agency adoption of cloud products by establishing--and this is really important--a presumption of adequacy for cloud technologies that have already received FedRAMP certification. Going to 33 different windows with 33 separate processes costs way too much money, takes way too much time, and, frankly, is unnecessary. The presumption of adequacy means that the cloud service offering has met baseline security standards already established by the program and should be considered approved for use across the Federal Government, except where very specialized services would be required. The bill also facilitates agency reuse of cloud technologies that have already received an authorization to operate by requiring agencies to check a centralized and secure repository and, to the extent practicable, reuse any existing security assessment before conducting an independent one of their own. The desire to automate aspects of FedRAMP assessment processes was another key finding of the subcommittee's hearing. This bill requires the GSA work toward automating their processes, which will lead to more standard security assessments and continuous monitoring of cloud offerings to increase the efficiency for both providers and agencies. The bill also establishes, as the distinguished chairwoman indicated, a Federal Secure Cloud Advisory Committee to ensure a dialogue among GSA, agency cybersecurity and procurement officials, and industry in order to have effective and ongoing coordination in acquisition and adoption of cloud products by the Federal Government. Finally, the bill authorizes the program at $20 million at an annual level, providing sufficient resources to increase the number of secure cloud technologies available for agency adoption. We have worked with OMB, GSA, industry stakeholders, and our minority counterparts to ensure that this bill makes needed improvements in the FedRAMP program and gives the program the flexibility to grow and adopt to future changes in cloud technologies. I believe it is consistent with the administration's goals, and I urge adoption of the bill.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my good friend Barbara Lee's longstanding amendment, which would repeal the 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force against Iraq. More than 17 years ago, Congress passed a resolution authorizing the equivalent of war with Iraq, a war I opposed then. It stretches credulity to claim that same resolution now extends authorization to the President's order to assassinate a foreign leader from Iran. Yet, that is precisely what the White House would have you believe. This AUMF is obsolete, and it is far past time that Congress make crystal clear to the administration, our allies, and our adversaries, as well as our constituents, the circumstances under which we would authorize engagement by our men and women in uniform. The Lee amendment repeals a misguided AUMF that has had disastrous consequences, and it reasserts Congress' Article I authorities as provided and mandated by the Constitution of the United States. Let's live up to our constitutional responsibility. Madam Speaker, let's support this amendment and get back to constitutional responsibilities and powers.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Holocaust. The United Nations General Assembly designated January 27 as this remembrance day to inspire reflection on the events that led to the execution of more than six million Jews and countless other oppressed communities. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi death camp, which I visited in August 2018. This complex is most notorious for its horrific death toll, resulting in more than 1.1 million deaths in its few years of operation. To describe the inhumanity observed in Auschwitz and other camps, holocaust survivor Lilly Appelbaum Malnik stated the following: ``And they said, `From now on you do not answer by your name. Your name is your number.' And the delusion, the disappointment, the discouragement that I felt, I felt like I was not a human person anymore.'' We must never forget the victims of the Holocaust and never cease working towards a more just society. Within 25 years, it is likely no Holocaust survivor will be alive to account for the events carried out in extermination camps. According to a 2018 survey commissioned by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany, 41 percent of American adults do not know about Auschwitz. With hate crimes reaching a 16-year high in 2018, it is imperative that we recount the atrocities of the Holocaust, lest discrimination based on race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, or gender identity continue to spread. Madam Speaker, people throughout the world are coming together to commemorate the more than six million lives lost during the Holocaust. We stand in solidarity with the United Nations in remembering these victims and honoring those who defend human rights. We must always be vigilant that this horror of humanity is never repeated.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the 35th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and the cornerstone of the event, the 30th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest, hosted by the Prince William Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Every year, members of the community gather on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day to reflect upon the past year and receive a message of hope from the youth of today and leaders of tomorrow. The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will forever be enshrined in our history as the formative figure in the quest for justice through civil dialogue. Dr. King has continued to be an inspiration to all for generations. Many have answered his call to both stand up and call out inequalities that we still see today. The struggle for freedom that Dr. King was fighting for was brought to the forefront during the March on Washington. On that day, while standing in front of the Lincoln Memorial, Dr. King famously said ``Let Freedom Ring'' which is fittingly the theme for this year's Oratorical Contest. He wanted our youth to have the future they are seeing today, free to reach unlimited heights. The talented students who are participating in this contest are true examples of the continuous efforts Dr. King wanted from us all. I congratulate the following contestants in the 30th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Oratorical Contest: Middle School Contestants: Nyela Asterilla Anderson--Hampton Middle School; Kamari Chisolm--Bull Run Middle School; Myles Lainer--Manassas Park Middle School. High School Contestants: Zion Fozo--Potomac High School; Jessica Gyamfi--Colgan High School; Hanaan Khabir--Osbourn Park High School. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending the Prince William Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for showcasing the power of purposeful and meaningful communication reminiscent of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and in congratulating the talented youth of the 2020 MLK Youth Oratorical Contest.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jeanette Pedone on her recent retirement as our Assistant Chief Clerk of Debates, after nearly 17 years of service here in the House. Jeanette grew up along the eastern seaboard but always enjoyed her summers in Harvey Cedars, New Jersey. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and the New York School of Interior Design. Jeanette came to the House from the Stenograph Company, where she was a sales representative. She first served as an editor for committee hearings in the Office of Official Reporters in 2003, and she became an Assistant Chief Clerk of Debates a year later. Jeanette was a debate clerk for more than 16 years, the longest job she ever held, and served under four Speakers of the House, four Clerks of the House, and four Chiefs of the Office of Official Reporters. As a debate clerk, she coordinated the production of the Congressional Record from the floor of the House, recording who spoke on the floor and all parliamentary actions of the House, a pretty big job. She also assisted the official reporters and editors in gathering speeches and supplemental information for the Record. Jeanette was a familiar face on the floor and had a front-row seat to history. She represented the office at a State of the Union Address, five speeches to joint meetings of Congress by foreign leaders, and many important legislative moments here on the floor. But she most fondly recalls meeting her childhood idol, Patty Duke, and her son, the actor Sean Astin, when they toured the House floor late one night after adjournment. Jeanette retired to Lords Valley, Pennsylvania, with her husband, Joe. She looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her daughter, Courtney, and her son, Jeff. She also now has two baby granddaughters to shower with attention. Mr. Speaker, we wish Jeanette all the best on behalf of the entire House of Representatives.