Member of Congress
Jason Crow
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- CO
- Party
- Democrat
Speeches
RECOGNIZING THE DIOL FAMILY2020-09-30
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the accomplishments of organizations in my district that have worked tirelessly to promote and ensure their communities are counted in the 2020 Census. With over 800,000 citizens and 160 languages spoken in my district, making sure that every single resident is counted is difficult work. With the help of many hardworking organizations, Colorado's Sixth District has a self-response rate of 76.5 percent, surpassing its 2010 rate and surpassing the State average of 69.5 percent. In fact, it holds the highest response rate of any Colorado congressional district. I would particularly like to acknowledge the following 11 organizations for their help in spreading awareness: Together We Count, the Asian Pacific Development Center, the Oromo Community of Colorado, The ARC of Aurora, the Aurora Economic Opportunity Coalition, the Mosaic Church of Aurora, the African Chamber of Commerce in Colorado, the Village Exchange Center, the City of Aurora, Arapahoe County, and Mi Pueblo Market. These organizations truly make a difference in my district for their tireless work in the 2020 Census. Honoring Mary Hodge on Her Retirement
HONORING IVETTE DOMINGUEZ DRAWE, OWNER AND PRESIDENT OFALPINE BUICK GMC2020-09-29
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the accomplishments of Ms. Ivette Dominguez Drawe who will be honored by The Chamber of Northwest Douglas County as a ``Woman Who Soars.'' Ms. Dominguez Drawe is an outstanding businesswoman. She is one of just 13 Hispanic female car dealership owners among thousands of General Motors dealerships nationwide. Her first location, opened in Denver in 2007, consistently outperforms any other Buick GMC dealership in Denver. In 2017 and 2018, Ivette acquired struggling dealerships in Illinois and quickly turned them into thriving, profitable businesses. She purchased Alpine Buick GMC South in late 2018 and Post Oak Toyota in late 2019. In Summer 2020, she will officially open Alpine Buick GMC's hallmark location in Douglas County, Colorado. Ivette currently serves on the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Board, on the Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver Board, and is immediate past chair of GM's Minority Development Dealership Council. She also supports local women and families through her dealership's Alpine Cares program, which grants up to $15,000 per year to organizations such as the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance and is a sponsor of Habitat for Humanity annual builds. Ivette and Alpine Buick GMC are also longtime supporters of Children's Hospital Colorado. A tireless volunteer, advocate, and community supporter, I can think of few others more deserving of this honor and I congratulate Ms. Dominguez Drawe for being recognized as a ``Woman Who Soars.''
HONORING DR. MONIQUE BUTLER, CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER OF SWEDISH MEDICAL CENTER2020-09-29
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the accomplishments of Dr. Monique Butler who will be honored by The Chamber of Northwest Douglas County as a ``Woman Who Soars.'' Dr. Butler has been the Chief Medical Officer for Swedish Medical Center since 2018 and her career is an inspiration to all aspiring female doctors. A board-certified internist, Dr. Butler graduated from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and received her medical training at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Dr. Butler also completed a Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee Physician Executive MBA program and holds a clinical assistant professorship at Michigan State University's College of Osteopathic Medicine. Prior to joining Swedish Medical Center, Dr. Butler came from the Children's Hospital of Michigan--Detroit Medical Center, where she was the Chief Operating Officer. Previously she held positions as the Chief Medical Officer at Detroit Receiving Hospital and Sinai-Grace Hospital. Dr. Butler was voted A Woman of Excellence in STEM careers in Michigan, was recognized as one of the Michigan Chronicle's 40 under 40, and most recently was identified in Becker's Hospital Review as one of the 50 great African American leaders in healthcare to know in the nation. She is the co-founder of the Young Doctors of Detroit program and founder of The Women Physicians Network. A dedicated leader who brings an exceptional background, knowledge, expertise, and record of success to our community, there are few others deserving of such an honor. I congratulate Dr. Butler for receiving recognition as a ``Woman Who Soars.''
HONORING ZOE ROYER2020-09-29
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the accomplishments of Ms. Zoeyer who will be honored by The Chamber of Northwest Douglas County as a ``Woman Who Soars.'' Zoe's story is heartbreaking and inspiring. When she was 14, her mother was killed by her father who then took his own life. She and her younger sister were suddenly homeless and entered the foster care system. Zoe was placed in more than a dozen homes in her teens and dropped out of high school. Through the help of a local non-profit, she was given hope and a future. She is a recent graduate of Metropolitan State University and now works to pay it forward. Zoe has become a mental health advocate, a writer and activist. Zoe believes in fighting for a better and more equitable world through building relationships with her community. She is passionate about social change and hopes to inspire and empower others by telling her story. Zoe has supported suicide prevention projects, charities assisting homeless students in education, and feminist non-profits throughout the state of Colorado. Zoe has been the president of several student organizations, including a women's social justice honor society. She now holds a psychological sciences degree from Metropolitan State University of Denver and is looking forward to attending a Ph.D. program. As a recent graduate, advocate, and a survivor of incredible adversity, she truly is deserving of such an honor. I congratulate Ms. Royer for being recognized as a ``Woman Who Soars.''
HONORING VETERANS COMMUNITY LIVING CENTER AT FITZSIMONS2020-09-16
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Salud Family Health Centers on its 50th anniversary. Salud was founded in 1970 to serve the migrant and seasonal farmworker population living and working in and around Fort Lupton, Colorado. Today, Salud operates 13 clinics and a mobile unit in 10 predominantly rural communities throughout northern and southeastern Colorado, serving over 82,000 patients annually. Salud has grown to provide medical, dental, behavioral health, women's care, pediatric care, and on-site pharmacy services. Prior to COVID, Salud also operated 11 school-based sites to better serve the needs of the community. Salud's mobile unit travels mostly rural areas during the evenings to provide quality healthcare to seasonal and migrant workers. In its 50 years, Salud has served 2 million patients. I am proud to have Salud Family Health Centers serving the people of the Sixth Congressional District. Applauding Aurora Mobile Food Pantry
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we observe Hunger Action Month throughout September to applaud the work of the Aurora Mobile Food Pantry. While the food pantry is a crucial support system to our community at the best of times, it has been a lifeline to those experiencing hunger during the COVID-19 pandemic. This summer, Aurora Mobile Food Pantry and its community partners, along with over 750 volunteers, provided more than 475,000 meals to our community. In addition to providing healthy food, more than 30,000 community members who visited the mobile food pantry received 37,000 pounds of pet food, 2,800 books for children, 5,400 water bottles, and $47,000 worth of diapers and baby wipes. All told, the Aurora Mobile Food Pantry has provided more than $1 million in food to our community during COVID-19. It serves as a reminder of what can happen when Coloradans come together to support one another in times of need. Recognizing Heroism of Manjit Singh
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Manjit Singh. Manjit Singh immigrated to my district from India in 2018 in search of the American Dream. On Wednesday, August 5, Manjit died a hero. After his first day of truck driving school, Manjit was with his family and friends at Reedley Beach near his new home in California. He saw three children caught in the current of the Kings River and selflessly rushed in to help them. Manjit did not know how to swim, but he knew bravery. Witnesses say he helped pull one of the three children to safety and endeavored to assist another. While all of them have recovered, an 8-year-old girl named Samantha would later lose her life. I grieve for her and her family. I stand amazed by Manjit's sacrifice, and I am grateful to his community for recognizing the heroism he demonstrated that day. I am inspired by the humanity and compassion that link all of us together.
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the staff and residents of the Veterans Community Living Center in Aurora, Colorado. This Colorado veterans home has cared for veterans, veteran spouses, and Gold Star parents for over 18 years. The staff at Fitzsimons has acted heroically during this pandemic, risking exposure, facing fears, and continuing to show up for their residents and coworkers. Since March, 26 employees have tested positive, and most have returned to work. This dedicated team has pioneered new ways of connecting veterans to their communities, including drive-by vintage car shows and coordinating phone calls and Skype visits with family and friends. We do mourn the loss of 25 veterans who lost their lives to the virus and celebrate the lifetime of selfless service all veterans who live at Fitzsimons have made. It is with pride that I recognize the staff and residents at the Veterans Community Living Center at Fitzsimons. Recognizing Salud Family Health Centers' 50th Anniversary
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 20212020-07-30
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of en bloc package No. 2, which contains my bipartisan amendment to provide resources for a key national defense priority. The threat to our servicemembers from sophisticated, state- manufactured unmanned aerial systems, or drones, is serious and requires us to pursue innovative and advanced solutions. My amendment would increase by $5 million the Army RDT&E air and missile defense advanced technology line in order to integrate and demonstrate a modular, multimission capability consisting of surveillance, electronic warfare, and high-energy laser into a remotely operated robotic vehicle. The integrated prototype would demonstrate an ability to remotely detect, identify, and mitigate UAS threats so that we can better protect our troops and bases. I would like to thank Chairman Visclosky and Ranking Member Calvert for working with me on this amendment. Additionally, I would like to recognize Mr. Lamborn, Mr. Langevin, Mr. Buck, and Ms. Haaland for their leadership and support on this issue.
WILLIAM M. (MAC) THORNBERRY NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 20212020-07-20
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, after almost 20 years and thousands of lives, the war in Afghanistan must come to an end. I know, because I served two combat tours there and saw the horrors of that war. That is why, since coming to Congress, I have been at the forefront of efforts to end the war and reassert Congress' war powers and end some of the Authorizations for Use of Military Force. But in doing so, we must not be driven by artificial deadlines dictated by election-year politics. We must coordinate with our allies who still serve shoulder to shoulder with us. We must protect our troops during very high-risk withdrawal operations. We must prevent a resurgence of ISIS like we saw in Iraq. And, importantly, we must establish some safeguards for the women and children of Afghanistan. Let's do this. Let's bring our troops home and dedicate our resources here. But let's do it the right way, not rushed by the coming election day. Many of my colleagues and I share the same goals, but there is a right way to do it and a wrong way to do it. That is why I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.
CALLING FOR A PEACEFUL RESOLUTION TO GERD PROJECT NEGOTIATION2020-06-26
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of continued cooperation and peaceful negotiations between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan regarding the construction and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Furthermore, I urge the Trump Administration to respect our nation's role as an impartial observer to these discussions going forward. As you know, the GERD project broke ground in 2011. Next month, construction will be complete. When fully filled and operational, the dam will generate approximately 6,000 megawatts of electricity--making it the largest hydropower project in Africa. It will directly impact the flow of water, increase the supply of energy, and help ensure food security in Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan. In Ethiopia, it will help alleviate drought conditions that have impacted nearly one fifth of its population and inflicted untold damage on crops across the county. In Egypt, it will help improve water supply for the rapidly growing population. In Sudan, it will help reduce sediment and control flooding. For the past four years, negotiations have followed the 2015 Declaration of Principles, agreed upon by the three countries involved in the negotiations. These principles outlined a commitment to peaceful resolution to conflicts as they arise; mutual trust and respect; information sharing; security; respect for one another's sovereignty; and stewardship of the River Nile. In recent months, tensions have escalated between Ethiopia and Egypt, putting the project in jeopardy. We must honor our nation's role as an observer of these negotiations and avoid taking on an additional role as a facilitator or mediator. Moreover, we must not play favorites or take any other action that may risk damaging the integrity of this process or put a peaceful, mutually beneficial agreement out of reach. As negotiations continue, I urge the United States Government and all other international parties to respect the 2015 Declaration of Principles, engage only with African Union diplomats, and support a peaceful resolution for all countries involved and for the region at large.
GEORGE FLOYD JUSTICE IN POLICING ACT OF 20202020-06-25
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Elijah McClain, a young Black man from Aurora, Colorado, who died in police custody. He was 23 years old. Before coming to the floor today, I asked Elijah's mother what she wanted to tell the world about her son, and here are her words: ``Elijah spread joy everywhere he went. He was a lover of all beings. He dedicated his energy to healing others through his work as a massage therapist and playing his violin at the animal shelter to keep them from being lonely. Elijah's name will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.'' Colorado was blessed by Elijah's legacy, and last week, we passed the most transformative police bill in the country. Tonight, it is Congress' turn to do the same. I urge my colleagues to join me and pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. The time for talk in Congress is over. My vote tonight will be cast for Elijah McClain.
HEALTH AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY OMNIBUS EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS ACT2020-05-15
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, if we don't act boldly, we will spend the next decade recovering from this crisis, and many families and many communities may never recover. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle are right about one thing: This is our vision for America, an America where people can pay their rent and mortgage and buy food for their children; where businesses will reopen and create jobs; where our cities can pay our firefighters, our paramedics, and our teachers next month; and where people can vote without risking their health and their lives. America is great because, in times of crisis, we come together to meet the challenge. We do big things. Let us meet this moment. Let's pass this bill.
AMERICA'S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP DURING COVID-192020-04-28
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Representatives Yoho and Bera for their leadership in hosting this special order during a particularly difficult period not only for the United States, but the whole world. With more than 3 million confirmed cases across 185 countries, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that infectious diseases know no borders. They thrive on inequality and exacerbate societal schisms. The only proven way to avert an unchecked humanitarian disaster is through a united, global response. During times of crisis, it has been the United States that has stepped into the void to provide a path forward. This is a global moment that requires the mantle of bold leadership that our nation has assumed in the past. The path toward overcoming the specter of COVID-19 lies not in xenophobia and isolationism, but rather an embrace of a coordinated international response. It demands we chart a course for global health that extends beyond the urgency of this moment into the future; so that we are prepared for whatever challenges lie beyond the horizon. This effort requires a multipronged approach to global health programs that the United States has the capacity and the scientific expertise to lead. First, we must help developing countries to improve their ability to more effectively combat disease. This pandemic has proven once again that our health security is only as strong as the international community. Second, we must recommit to helping the tens of millions of people fleeing war, persecution, and hardship around the world. Refugees already suffer from food insecurity and are uniquely vulnerable to the devastation of a virus like COVID-19. And third, we must empower Americans serving on the frontlines as we grapple with the pandemic. That means providing our diplomats, aid personnel, and servicemembers with the resources they need to maintain their global operations and provide emergency relief for millions of people around the world. We are strongest when we are united with our allies against a common foe, and there is no more ubiquitous enemy than the scourge of a pandemic. This is a moment when the world needs American leadership. That is why I call on my colleagues to support increased funding for the Department of State, USAID, and other federal agencies providing essential international COVID-19 relief. I am also calling on the Administration to work closely with our international partners and organizations to develop a comprehensive path forward to respond to COVID-19 and provide for our health security in the future.
MIDDLE CLASS HEALTH BENEFITS TAX REPEAL ACT OF 20192020-03-27
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, our country and the American people are in crisis, and it requires our action now. To be clear, this is not a perfect bill, but it is the bill that America needs today. It will provide immediate relief: direct cash payments to millions of Americans to pay rent, to buy food, and to pay their mortgages, and over $370 billion to our small businesses in immediate grants and loans. There is much more that needs to be done, but we will work together to do it and improve, moving forward. We will get through this challenging time as a country because that is what America does. We are at our best when we come together and meet our common challenges, and that is exactly what we will do.
HONORING THE MARINES AND SAILORS OF SITE SUPPORT AURORA2020-02-28
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, it is my honor today to recognize the accomplishments of the Marines and Sailors of Site Support Aurora, who will be honored by the Chamber of Northwest Douglas County as a ``Citizens Who Soar.'' These service members have been an integral part of the local community serving on Buckley Air Force Base. They are Active Duty support personnel who instruct and assist Marine Corps Reserve units in maintaining a continuous state of readiness for mobilization. They primarily inspect and render technical advice on command functions including operations, training, administration, and logistical support. While their primary duties focus on training and advising the reserve Marines, their efforts extend beyond this scope and include service within the local community. Through their efforts, these Marines and Sailors supported a Toys for Tots drive which resulted in over 186,364 toys being distributed to 99,800 children in the Denver metropolitan area. In addition to this monumental effort, in 2019 these Marines and Sailors rendered military funeral honors to over 360 Marines who honorably served their country. Through their devotion to duty and commitment to service, these service members have had an incredibly positive impact on the community. Their success in not only training our Reserve Marines, but also supporting the local community through their selfless efforts serves as an inspiration to the public. As major contributors and an inspiration to the community, I congratulate these Marines and Sailors for receiving the recognition as ``Citizens Who Soar.''
NATIONAL GUN VIOLENCE SURVIVORS WEEK2020-02-06
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today in solemn observance of National Gun Violence Survivors Week. Colorado is home, and I am proud to represent the communities of Colorado's Sixth Congressional District, communities that have seen the horrors of gun violence firsthand. Too many of my constituents bear the scars of gun violence long after their wounds have healed. Some never heal. In honor of their pain, their courage, and their advocacy, we must call on the Senate to pass the commonsense reforms that have already been approved in the House. We must act now for Julie from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, who was shot when she was 13. Julie was left paralyzed from the chest down, requiring her to walk with canes and braces for the rest of her life. My heart is with Julie for having the courage to speak out in support of commonsense reforms. We must act now for all survivors like Julie and we must act now for those who no longer have a voice.
MERCHANT MARINERS OF WORLD WAR II CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL ACT OF 20192020-01-30
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the bills offered by Representatives Lee and Khanna to reassert Congress's constitutional role in authorizing the use of military force. It was an honor to serve my country in Iraq and Afghanistan, but I also witnessed the consequences of sending Americans into harm's way without defined goals and a clear exit strategy. For the past 17 years, that authorization has sent hundreds of thousands of American men and women to war in Iraq. We are now faced with the prospect of another confrontation in the Middle East, this time with Iran, that risks repeating some of the mistakes of the past. The most solemn responsibility of Congress is the decision to send our men and women into harm's way. Authorizations granted by Congress should be revoked once the original purpose has ended. But Congress has allowed authorizations to live far past their intended life and abdicated its Constitutional authority in matters of war and diplomacy. Until now. The bills offered by my colleagues reclaim Congress's constitutional role in determining when we send our sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to fight on our behalf. They ensure that the American people have a voice in making such significant decisions. Through the leadership of my colleagues, this chamber is ensuring that any future use of military force must be subject to the rigorous debate the American people expect. I applaud the leadership of Representatives Lee and Khanna on this important issue and I urge my colleagues to join me in reasserting Congress's role in deciding when to use military force by voting yes on these bills.
HONORING FIRE CHIEF TROY S. JACKSON2020-01-24
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a fallen Colorado hero. On December 16, our community mourned the passing of South Metro Fire Rescue's Operations Chief Troy Jackson. In 2013, Chief Jackson was diagnosed with a rare, job-related terminal cancer which ultimately took his life. Despite the physical and emotional challenges of his illness, Chief Jackson triumphed as a phenomenal leader and mentor during his battle with cancer. Chief Jackson began his professional firefighting career in 1990. In his three-decade career he rose through the ranks, ultimately reaching the rank of Assistant Chief. Throughout his career, Chief Jackson excelled at each level he served. His passion for training and safety is evidenced by his numerous awards and commendations for exceptional service. Chief Jackson worked diligently to help forever change the culture of South Metro Fire and the American fire service. Jackson was a pioneer in reducing exposure and protecting firefighters. Specifically, Jackson initiated policy changes and equipment upgrades to promote aggressive firefighter decontamination following fires--and these policies have since spread across the United States. His programs, leadership, and vision help keep other firefighters from suffering from health problems like the one that took his life. There's no doubt that Chief Jackson's legacy lives on in our community, the fire service, and our country. His passion to protect and improve the health and safety of our emergency responders is of the greatest testament to his selfless leadership. Chief Jackson leaves behind his supportive family including his loving wife, Lori, and children Covey and Carley. Along with the entire South Metro Fire Family, they mourn our loss and commit to continuing his legacy. I am honored to recognize this American Hero in this chamber, the U.S. House of Representatives. It is impossible to count the number of lives Chief Jackson touched as a firefighter, but we know it was many. His legacy lives on and his vision continues to save lives. We thank Chief Jackson for his leadership and unwavering commitment to our citizens and community. May we never forget his ultimate sacrifice.
CELEBRATING VILLAGE EXCHANGE CENTER2020-01-13
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the third anniversary of the Village Exchange Center in Aurora, Colorado. Founded in 2017, the Village Exchange Center has become a thriving, collaborative nonprofit and a home for immigrants, refugees, and community members throughout the Aurora-Denver metro area. In Aurora, we recognize that our diversity is our strength. In our public schools alone, over 150 languages are spoken by students. This is where VEC comes in, helping build bridges between the multiple cultures, faiths, and nationalities that now call Colorado home. This year VEC is embarking on an ambitious new initiative called Village Farms at Stanley, a vertical farm near Stanley Marketplace. Village Farm will help empower diverse, intergenerational communities through education, training, food, and farming. On its third anniversary, I wish VEC continued success in bringing people together in paving the way toward health and economic opportunities for our diverse communities. Together, we can build a vibrant community.
ADJOURNMENT2020-01-13
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.
IRAN WAR POWERS RESOLUTION2020-01-09
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Mr. Speaker, our Founders vested in Congress the solemn responsibility of sending our sons and daughters to war. I have often heard folks say that now is not the time to discuss the use of force or the decision to send our men and women to fight. I heard that in 2003 when I was carrying a rifle in Baghdad. I heard it again in 2004 and 2005 when I was leading my unit through the mountains of Afghanistan, and I am hearing it again today in the Halls of Congress. In the last 19 years, more than 7,000 Americans have given their lives in these conflicts; 53,000 have been wounded; and we have spent over $4 trillion of taxpayer money. Do not believe the fearmongering. This resolution does nothing to prevent the President from protecting the Nation against imminent threats. I have spent years fighting to keep Americans safe and will continue to do so. I may have laid down my rifle, but my oath to this country endures. I will fight to ensure that we are having a discussion about when to send our men and women, our sons and daughters, and our sisters and brothers into harm's way. It is time to have this debate.
IMPEACHING DONALD JOHN TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, FOR HIGH CRIMES AND MISDEMEANORS2019-12-18
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, years ago, I took my first oath to the country, went to war, and fought alongside our Nation's finest men and women. Some of them gave their lives for our Nation. Not a day has passed that I don't reflect on those sacrifices. I learned during that time that our Nation is built on sacrifice. We have overcome challenging times because people have decided to put aside their personal interests, their livelihoods, and, yes, even given their lives to do what is best for our Nation. Our Founders created a system to ensure we would have no kings or dictators, a system that vested power in the people to ensure that no man or woman is above the law. Generation after generation, this system has survived because people have fought for it. Today, it is our turn. The President's abuse of power and scorn for our constitutional checks and balances is unprecedented. Unless we stand up against these abuses, we will set the country on a dangerous new course. My oath, my love of our country, and my duty to honor the sacrifices of those who came before us require me to act. To my colleagues, it is time to put aside our personal and political interests and honor those who have come before us.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION2019-12-12
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, on December 11, 2019, I was unable to be present to cast my vote on the Motion to Table the Motion to Reconsider H.R. 729, because I was unaware that an additional vote had been called. Had I been present for roll call No. 671, I would have voted ``AYE.''
LOWER DRUG COSTS NOW ACT OF 20192019-12-12
Mr. CROW
Mr. CROW. Madam Chair, I rise today to speak in favor of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act, and I am eager to vote for this landmark piece of legislation today. I am proud that we are here boldly taking a stand against the influence of special interests in Congress and a stand for the American people, to help them afford critical lifesaving medications. Back home in Colorado's Sixth Congressional District, when I am hosting townhalls or roundtables with families, college students, or seniors, I hear the same thing: Prescription drugs are too expensive, and Congress needs to act now. Currently, as we stand here, one in three Coloradans can't afford to pay for their basic medications and are having to either ration their medication or stop taking it altogether. This needs to stop now. Thousands of Coloradans are diagnosed with cancer every year, and the treatments for these patients cost $100,000 or more. Instead of working to increase access and lower costs, the pharmaceutical companies are price gouging these patients, our constituents, across the country. This needs to stop now. I am proud to have worked with my freshman colleague, Representative Porter, to introduce H.R. 4663, the Freedom from Price Gouging Act, which has been included as a provision in H.R. 3. Our provision would hold these bad actors accountable and prevent them from raising the cost of prescription drugs past the rate of inflation. The CBO recently found that this measure would save American taxpayers $38 billion over the next decade. Importantly, H.R. 3 gives the Federal Government authority to negotiate prices for insulin and other lifesaving drugs. As I stand here today, 300,000 Coloradans with diabetes will save up to 75 percent on their insulin under H.R. 3. It also caps the exorbitant amount that seniors have to pay for drugs that simply improve the quality of their life. As I stand here today, hundreds of thousands of Coloradans with heart disease, asthma, arthritis, and cancer will directly benefit from H.R. 3. On top of the drug pricing provisions, this bill invests billions in savings back into our healthcare system. $10 billion would go to our Nation's community health centers, which serve over 29 million Americans from underserved communities. It also invests $10 billion into the NIH and $2 billion into the FDA to promote research and drug safety. It invests another $10 billion to respond to our Nation's opioid epidemic, which has destroyed far too many American families. We cannot wait any longer while our neighbors' and family members' lives are at risk and while pharmaceutical companies continue to fill their pockets, making tens of billions of dollars, historic profits. Americans rightly expect us to deliver on our promise to fight and reduce the cost of prescription drugs. That is why I will cast my vote as a ``yes'' today to deliver relief for my constituents and the American people.