Gilbert Cisneros

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in anticipation of Transgender Remembrance Day, to honor the memory of those who have been lost to anti-transgender violence. It is important that we recognize the bravery of those individuals who have chosen to live truthfully and openly and embrace their gender identity with the world. We must raise up their names and remember those who have been lost to senseless violence and hate. We must shine a light on the injustice that has affected this community. I am proud to have a transgender woman as part of my staff. I would also like to recognize the Shah family from my district. Priya and Jaspret Shah are the parents of a brave little transgender girl. Together, they have advocated not only for their daughter, but for the entire transgender community. Priya has come to the forefront of the Human Rights Campaign's national program to make schools safe spaces for transgender children. We must continue to stand in solidarity with the Shah family, their daughter, and the entire transgender community and continue to work toward equality and justice for all.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize 39th Congressional District resident Megan Loh and her passion to ensure more young women and girls are represented and encouraged to participate in the field of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Megan, an avid Girl Scout and Troy High School student from Fullerton, formed her own nonprofit GEARup4Youth to encourage girls interested in STEAM and STEM career paths. GEARup4Youth has already benefitted more than 9,500 girls to date. Megan also initiated the first girls-only robotics class at a local Boys & Girls Clubs of America. And she partnered with over 200 organizations to host presentations, family STEM events, and expos about her technology curriculum. Megan even authored her own book, ``Easy STEM Activities You Can Do At Home'' in order to broaden more young girls' interests in STEAM. For all her amazing and passionate work on behalf of young girls, Megan was named one of the 2019 National Gold Award Girl Scouts. In Megan's own words, we must continue to show young girls that they do belong in tech fields that aren't simply open to them, but need them. And as an education advocate, I couldn't agree more. I ask my colleagues to join me in offering my sincerest congratulations to Megan and thank her for all her work on behalf of young women like herself.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise to congratulate two schools in California's 39th Congressional District. Acacia Elementary School and Robert C. Fisler Elementary School have been recognized as Exemplary High Performing Schools by the Department of Education's Blue Ribbon Schools program. This honor is a direct reflection of the culture of academic excellence built from the combined efforts of students, faculty, parents, volunteers, and local communities. Acacia Elementary School of Orange County's Fullerton School District owes its distinction to a myriad of innovative teaching and learning practices. Of these practices, ``Balanced Literacy'' has been utilized since 2012 and combines reading, writing, listening, and speaking strategies. Complementing this approach are programs such as STEM & Robotics Lab dedicated to the mastery of 21st century applications. The foundation of Acacia's academic principles lies in presenting real world problems and project-based learning opportunities to students. For students still establishing their first academic identities, it is vital that the materials they are presented with accurately reflect the intricacies of their own environment. Combining this hands-on pathway with personalized strategies has lent a tremendous hand in instilling confidence, agency, and understanding within Acacia's student body. Robert C. Fisler Elementary School, also of Orange County's Fullerton School District, owes its distinction to an academic framework that is supported by a vision of student empowerment. As the school with the largest population of Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) students in the district, Fisler School has maintained an excellent reputation in establishing a wide array of unique educational opportunities. Students at Fisler are encouraged to take risks and experiment in order to develop both academically and emotionally. By reflecting on failures and regulating thought processes, these young individuals learn flexibility, persistence, and empathy. Fisler School favors a comprehensive instructional model that includes programs for computer science, video production, performing arts, and more. Through these programs, students are encouraged to engage in and explore high school, post-secondary, and future career options for a well-rounded, personalized academic experience. While learning is a continuous process in our children's daily lives, it is during school that they find tools and resources necessary to root knowledge for future use. Therefore, it is imperative that the school environment is conducive to growth and development. Acacia Elementary School and Robert C. Fisler Elementary School have established holistic academic philosophies that cater to this belief. They know that it is not just academic rigor or prestige, but rather a safe, collaborative environment that cultivates curiosity and determination crucial for student success. I am proud to know that my district is home to places of instruction that embody such an idea and I am more than honored to be representing them. Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the teachers, parents, staff, volunteers, and--most importantly--the students of Acacia Elementary School and Robert C. Fisler Elementary School. They are well-deserving of this recognition and I am eager to welcome the next generation of leaders that will emerge from these two schools.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible performance of schools and students in the 39th Congressional District in California. Yesterday, the Department of Education recognized 362 schools across the country as National Blue Ribbon Schools for their academic excellence. I am proud to say that two schools in my district have received that honor: Acacia Elementary School and Robert C. Fisler Elementary School in Fullerton. This recognition is a testament to the outstanding work of the teachers, faculty, staff, students, and families who, together, create a culture of success at our schools. Additionally, I want to congratulate the students at the Placentia- Yorba Linda Unified School District for their 84 percent pass rate on their advanced placement, or AP, exams, one of the highest averages in the Nation. They were included in the prestigious Advanced Placement District Honor Roll. Less than 3 percent of school districts across the country have received this honor. As a longtime education advocate, it is with immense pride that I stand here able to recognize these schools and their students for their achievements. All of these schools and students are shining examples of academic excellence in the 39th Congressional District, worthy of their national distinction. I ask my colleagues to join me in offering my sincerest congratulations.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, the President continues to talk about how the tariffs are working, how China is struggling, their economy is hurting, and they are ready to make a deal. The reality is American businesses are suffering. The trade tariffs have had a negative impact on small businesses and consumers in my district. I recently met with SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, an organization that represents nearly 8,000 businesses across the country, 1 million workers, and revenue of over $45 billion. Seventy- five of those businesses are in California's 39th Congressional District. The ongoing uncertainty and threats of new tariffs create an atmosphere of unpredictability and uncertainty that can inhibit growth and innovation. Mr. Speaker, while businesses want to address unfair trade practices, they disagree with the administration's reckless approach to impose tariffs. These tariffs have increased prices for American consumers, hurt businesses, and harmed American families, not foreign countries. China is no closer to making a deal than it was 6 months ago. Let's end this reckless trade war for the sake of our consumers, our businesses in California's 39th, and across the country.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, this week marks 200 days into my first term as a Member of Congress. It has been an incredible honor to serve the residents of the 39th Congressional District in California. I am very proud of what we have accomplished so far in Congress, from the passage of three of my pieces of bipartisan legislation this week, which will expand access to benefits for veterans, servicemembers, and their families; to the 32 amendments my colleagues and I have offered that were agreed to on a bipartisan basis; and the three bipartisan bills that I had the honor of supporting that have been signed into law by the President. I am most proud of our constituent services in the district. In just 200 days in office, we have retrieved over $190,000 from Federal agencies for our constituents and worked on over 250 cases. I work for the people of my district. It is why I have attended hundreds of local events and met with thousands of my constituents. I look forward to the next 100 days and beyond, working for the people; bringing change to Washington, DC; and ensuring I give my constituents the representation they deserve.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Takano for his leadership on this issue and for working with me to ensure this bill passed out of committee on a bipartisan basis. I also thank the gentleman from Florida for his support on this bill. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to rise today to ask my colleagues for their support on my bill, H.R. 2943, the Providing Benefits Information in Spanish and Tagalog for Veterans and Families Act. So many veterans have come from Puerto Rico, as well as the Philippines. The VA actually does have a hospital both in Puerto Rico and in the Philippines. This legislation would direct the VA Secretary to make all Department of Veterans Affairs fact sheets available in English, Spanish, and Tagalog. According to the U.S. Census, as of July 1, 2017, the U.S. Hispanic population is approximately 59 million people, making up 18 percent of the Nation's total population, making people of Hispanic origin the Nation's largest ethnic or racial minority. The U.S. Census has also reported that Filipino Americans make up the third-largest AAPI subgroup, with an estimated 4 million people living in the United States. With those changing demographics trending toward a more racially and ethnically diverse majority, the veteran population is diversifying at similar rates. The share of veterans who are Hispanic is expected to nearly double. During my time in service, many of my proud brothers and sisters in arms were of Filipino descent. With Spanish and Tagalog as the first language of an increasing number of veterans and their families, and our significant strategic national security footprint in Puerto Rico and the Philippines, it is important that fact sheets offered by the VA are made available to everyone. This bill would serve as an initial step in ensuring veterans and their families with limited English proficiency have full access and information on VA services, without burden or barriers. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in support of my bill to ensure we do not overlook veterans and their families who may need these important fact sheets.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding, and I again want to thank the gentleman from Florida for his support on this bill as well. Madam Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Takano and Ranking Member Roe of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee for working with me to ensure my bill passed out of committee on a bipartisan basis. Today, I rise to ask my colleagues for their support on my bill, H.R. 2942, the Helping Expand and Launch Transitional Health for Women Veterans Act, introduced with my colleague and fellow veteran, Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan. As a Navy veteran, one of my top priorities is ensuring that active servicemembers transitioning into the civilian world are connected to the VA system and provided the best education and tools needed to succeed. Despite being the fastest growing cohort in our military community, many servicewomen face unique challenges with their VA benefits. Studies have shown that women veterans, on average, connect with the VA nearly 3 years after military service, which can result in higher rates of physical and mental health issues. In a male-dominated VA system, it is not surprising why women veterans often report that they are uncomfortable seeking women-specific care. My bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to extend an ongoing initiative with the Air Force and the Transition Assistance Program, which educates transitioning servicewomen about women's healthcare at the VA. Specifically, the bill would mandate an extension of the program across all military service branches and require a report on the feasibility of making it permanent. Participants of this pilot program report an increased likelihood to use VA healthcare and have shown higher rates of confidence with the VA. It is time our women servicemembers and veterans receive the care they need, and this bill will do just that. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of my bill to ensure that, when servicewomen transition to civilian life, they are provided with the information that will help them navigate their VA benefits in a commonsense way.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I am delighted to welcome to this Chamber Father John P. Fitzgibbons, who delivered today's opening prayer. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, he entered the Wisconsin Province of the Society of Jesus in 1973, and he was ordained as a priest in 1985. Like all good Jesuits, Father Fitzgibbons has dedicated his life to God and to education. He currently holds bachelor's degrees in philosophy and English, two master's degrees in theology, a master's in English, as well as a Ph.D. in English. He had stints teaching at Creighton and Marquette Universities, and he served as the dean of the College of Professional Studies at the University of San Francisco. He would later return to Marquette University to serve as the associate provost for faculty development. In 2012, he was appointed the 24th president of my alma mater, Regis University. Madam Speaker, I thank Father Fitzgibbons for his 26 years in education, his 34 years as a priest, and his 46 years of dedication to God. It has been a tremendous pleasure having him here today.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express. my gratitude that the House has approved H.R. 2500, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year FY) 2020. The bill contains many much-needed and valuable provisions and I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with Chairman Smith as well as Democratic and Republican members of the Armed Services Committee to secure them. I urge these provisions to be maintained through the conference process. H.R. 2500 is a boon for transition assistance that servicemembers rely upon when they leave the military. I am proud to have secured bipartisan language to assist active-duty reservists and national guardsmen, veterans, their dependents, and Gold Star families apply for and secure jobs in the civilian workforce. Specifically, the provision would help states across the nation expand or establish a pilot program to provide job placement assistance and related employment services to those servicemembers, veterans, and their families. As a veteran myself, I understand firsthand the challenges servicemembers, and their families, face when they enter the civilian workforce, and I am proud to have been able to secure provisions to assist these heroes as they transition to civilian life. Similarly, I am proud to have fought for and secured language calling on the Department of Defense to provide separating servicemembers with a comprehensive and individualized statement of benefits listing the benefits to which each servicemember is entitled and directing them to modernize the DD214 form that will facilitate better connectivity with veterans that have separated from the military. Additionally, at my request, H.R. 2500 requires the Department of Defense to review recent Transition Assistance Program reforms and provide a progress report on implementation to date. I look forward to receiving this report so that Congress may determine how to best improve upon the program and ensure our servicemembers are receiving the guidance and services they need to succeed when they transition to civilian life. Finally, I am pleased that H.R. 2500 includes language from my bill, H.R. 2944, the TALENT Act, which directs the Department of Defense to create a two-way exchange program between the Department's acquisition workforce and the private sector. The program will enable Department personnel, including military officers, to gain private sector experience and bring best practices they have learned back to the Department. Such a program brings benefits to the Department and to the individuals who may seek civilian employment after they conclude their military service. Another area of importance I worked to address in H.R. 2500 is improving access to and outcomes in military health. I am proud to have secured language in the bill to extend and expand an ongoing pilot program jointly run with the U.S. Air Force and Department of Veterans Affairs under the Transition Assistance Program that educates transitioning servicewomen about women's health care at the VA and encourages female servicemembers to participate. Furthermore, I worked with the Armed Services Committee to include language in the bill to direct the Department of Defense to create a comprehensive policy for mental health care across several key elements: pain management, opioid addiction, suicide prevention, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I would also like to note that I worked with colleagues to respond to the disturbing reports of hazardous and unhealthy privatized military housing at installations across the nation. H.R. 2500 includes language to ensure safe privatized military housing through the creation of a tenant's bill of rights, prohibition on the use of non-disclosure agreements in connection with entering into, continuing, or terminating a lease for a housing unit, establishment of a dispute resolution process, and creation of an electronic work order system. Finally, I am also happy to state that my colleagues and I were also able to secure language in H.R. 2500 encouraging the Department of Defense to accelerate research and development into technology or equipment solutions to eliminate the need for open air burn pits and establish long-term solutions for toxic waste disposal. As a Latino and former officer in the Navy, I am proud to have worked to secure language in H.R. 2500 that will improve diversity and inclusion in the Department of Defense. I know firsthand the benefits a diverse leadership can have on the force. Moreover, I believe a diverse military force reflects our values as a democratic society and provides the United States with a strategic advantage. To that end, I secured language in the bill to direct the Department of Defense to develop a new strategic plan for diversity and inclusion and worked with my colleagues to secure provisions to improve research capacity at Historic Black Colleges and Universities. Additionally, I was happy to support language during the Committee markup of H.R. 2500, under the leadership of Representative Jackie Speier, to require gender integration of Marine Corps basic training at Parris Island and San Diego. The Marine Corps is the only remaining military service that does not integrate basic training and it is time the Corps caught up to the other services in this regard. Finally, this bill includes an amendment--offered by myself and several colleagues and adopted on the House floor--to require that qualifications for eligibility to serve in an armed force account only for the ability of an individual to meet gender-neutral occupational standards and not include any criteria relating to the race, color, national origin, religion, or sex (including gender identity or sexual orientation) of an individual. We cannot stand for bans on individuals, including transgender individuals, serving in the armed forces purely because of who they are. I also worked to ensure H.R. 2500 includes provisions to addresses sexual assault in the military. I was troubled to learn of the findings in 2018 Department of Defense annual report on sexual assault in the military. According to the report, 20,500 service members--13,000 women and 7,500 men-across the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and the National Guard experienced ``contact or penetrative sexual assault'' while serving in the military in 2018--an increase from 14,900 in 2016. That is simply unacceptable. I am proud to have secured language in H.R. 2500 that extends the Defense Advisory Committee on Investigation, Prosecution, and Defense of Sexual Assault (DAC-IPAD) for an additional 5 years and expands its mandate to cover restorative justice models and interpretation of the Rules for Courts- Martial 1001(c) that affect sexual assault survivors. I also fought for and passed a provision to direct the Department of Defense to provide a report on how the Department can establish a clear standard for victims and victims' counsel to have access to all nonprivileged court filings and related materials derived directly from and pertaining directly to the victim such that victims' rights can be enforced. Additionally, I am proud to have sought language to address the issue of protective orders--the FY 2020 NDAA now requires unit commanders to notify civilian authorities of the issuance of a military protective order against a member of the Armed Forces and would require unit commanders to notify a receiving unit of the issuance of a military protective order in the event a member is transferred to another unit. And I am happy to have helped secure language to create the new Defense Advisory Committee for the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct and I cosponsored an adopted amendment that prohibits the Department of Defense from contracting with companies that do not have a sexual harassment policy that penalizes instances of sexual harassment. Another key challenge H.R. 2500 tackles is climate change. I am grateful that language I requested to have the Department of Defense explore the possibility of maintaining plug-in hybrid and electric government vehicle fleet on defense installations and building a microgrid infrastructure to support them was included in the bill. The Department of Defense must do its part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and this language moves the Department in that direction. I am also pleased that the bill includes provisions to require all proposals for military construction projects to consider long-term changes in environmental conditions, mandate the Department of Defense to report on progress towards meeting the goal of 25 percent renewable energy for military facilities by 2025, and direct the Secretary of Defense to develop a climate vulnerability and risk assessment tool. Puerto Rico recently felt the impact of climate change's most severe forces in Hurricane Maria, and I am proud to have cosponsored language led by Representative Nydia Velazquez that was included in H.R. 2500 that will support Puerto Rico's recovery by increasing the value of Puerto Rican subcontractors in the federal government's contracting goal. Increasing the value of Puerto Rican subcontractors will incentivize the contracting and subcontracting of Puerto Rican businesses--supporting the Puerto Rican economy and business as it recovers from Hurricane Maria. H.R. 2500 also includes language to help shape a foreign policy that is consistent with American values. I was happy to work with my colleagues to increase oversight and transparency of civilian casualties resulting from strikes outside areas of active hostilities and direct the Department of Defense to work with a federally funded research and development center to conduct an independent assessment of processes and procedures related to civilian casualties. Additionally, I was proud to co-sponsor adopted amendments that tackled priority foreign policy challenges that our nation faces. These amendments reasserted congressional authority to authorize the use of force, including vis-a-vis Iran, and called for an end of war declaration and peace agreement that will formally and responsibly end the Korean war. I would also like to note that the FY 2020 NDAA includes important education related provisions. I am grateful to see the amendment I cosponsored with several of my colleagues to enable the Secretary of Defense to make grants to Department of Defense schools or those with Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs to support world language study was included in the bill. I am also proud to have secured language in the bill to direct the Secretary of Defense to explore how the Department may carry out a program under which the Secretary makes grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities to carry out STEM educational events for military communities across the United States. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, H.R. 2500 is a strong defense bill that supports our troops, protects our nation, and reflects American values. I was proud to vote in favor of this bill and encourage my colleagues in the House and Senate to maintain these important provisions through the conference process.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, last week, we passed a National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2020. Working with my colleagues for over 20 hours on the House Armed Services Committee to mark up this bill in the late hours of the night and the early hours of the next day was all worth it. Mr. Speaker, with the passage of this year's NDAA, we have fulfilled our duties to ensure our military's readiness, strengthened our national security, and eased our servicemembers' transition to civilian life. I am proud to have helped secure 17 floor amendments for the NDAA, with more than half of those offered on a bipartisan basis. These provisions supported programs that are critical to servicemembers living in the 39th Congressional District. A major priority of mine is ensuring that our servicemembers have the support they need when they transition back to civilian life. I was proud to colead the bipartisan Work for Warriors provision with my colleagues, Representatives Paul Cook, Elissa Slotkin, and Mark Takano. The Work for Warriors model has a proven track record of helping our veterans find jobs, providing job placement assistance to unemployed Guardsmen, Reservists, military spouses, and veterans to not only help them provide for their families, but also facilitate their successful transition back to civilian life. Another priority of mine was to improve the quality of healthcare for servicemembers, especially mental health programs and women's healthcare services. I am proud to have secured a number of provisions that take care of military families by expanding military housing and improving access to healthcare services. Specifically, I was proud to work with Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan to expand transition assistance for women servicemembers. This will ensure our servicewomen are better equipped with the healthcare resources they need as they leave military service. Also, I am hopeful that the amendment my colleagues and I included to address sexual assault at all levels of our military will help our servicemembers and veterans receive the respect and justice they deserve. The high rate of sexual assault in the military is unacceptable and needs to be addressed immediately. Even though DOD spends millions on sexual assault prevention programs, the number of assaults has jumped dramatically since 2010. We owe it to our servicemembers and veterans to determine why the current programs have been failing, and we need to create a new, effective approach to this problem. Because, in exchange for their service, our Nation took on the responsibility to care for each servicemember's health, both physical and mental, that is why I prioritized provisions to address the suicide epidemic currently facing our servicemembers and veterans. We are losing servicemembers and veterans to addiction and suicide at alarming rates. It is unacceptable that this epidemic is only getting worse. I worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to secure language that will help prevent servicemembers from reaching at-risk status and ensure that at-risk servicemembers are identified and able to receive the care they deserve. Also, I am proud to have supported an amendment with Congresswoman Jackie Speier to protect our transgender servicemembers. As a Navy veteran, I was saddened by our government's willingness to discriminate against individuals who had the courage, spirit, and commitment to serve our country in uniform. Anyone who has the bravery to serve our country should be allowed to do so, and I stand firmly against the administration's ban on transgender servicemembers. I will continue to fight against this hateful and bigoted policy until the President and his administration understand that transgender servicemembers have the right to their dignity, and they have the right to serve. Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that the NDAA reaffirms our constitutional authority over the use of military force. With this provision, Congress reasserts our congressional authority and its duty to our country and our servicemembers, and it makes clear to the President that there is no current authorization to use military force against Iran. We understand how Iran destabilizes the region, and it is our responsibility in Congress to ensure that the U.S. does not enter into a conflict without a strategy. In closing, while I have said much on what this House has accomplished with this bill, I would like to end with this: I thank our servicemembers, civilian military personnel, and all the national security professionals who support our Armed Services in my district, in our country, and around the world. It is an honor to represent them in Congress to ensure the promises made here are kept for our servicemembers and our veterans.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, it is with immense sadness and great humility that I rise to mark the passing of another member of America's greatest generation. Charles Paul Pecoraro was an entertainer, a businessman, a veteran of the Second World War, a stalwart member of the veteran's community in Southern California, and most of all, a beloved family man who passed away at the age of 100 on July 2, 2019. Charles Pecoraro was born in the living room of his parents' small Manhattan apartment on November 29, 1918. It was the height of the First World War but also the age of rag-time, when New York City had more horses than cars. Charles' life spanned and exceeded what we now refer to as the American Century. Music was his family's business and his greatest passion. By the age of seven he was accompanying his father, a classically trained Sicilian mandolin player. Before he turned twenty he was a veteran of the Vaudeville circuit, having toured up and down the East Coast playing jazz guitar and earning his chops in concert halls, speakeasies, dance clubs, and Broadway orchestra pits. When America entered the Second World War, Charles didn't hesitate. He joined the Coast Guard and served aboard the Admiral H.T. Mayo (AP- 125). Charles sailed on the ship's shakedown cruise, then transiting the Panama Canal, helped ferry troops during two trips across the Atlantic. Transiting the Panama Canal again, Charles continued his service in the Pacific where he and his shipmates transported more troops to the Okinawa campaign. Evading U-Boats in the Atlantic and outrunning Japanese submarines and aircraft in the Pacific, Charles attained the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class. He would ultimately return to his music career, before beginning what his family refers to as his third act. Charles met the love of his life Lucy, his wife of 53 years. He, Lucy, and their only son ``Charlie'' Charles Pecoraro, Jr. moved to Fullerton, California in the 1970s so that Charles could join his brother Steve. Together, they opened Angelo's & Vinci's, a neighborhood institution that still stands and continues to thrive only blocks from my office. Its success is carried on by the spirit of the two Sicilian-American brothers who founded it. Like many men of his generation, Charles was modest to the extreme. A deeply devoted religious and family man, he spoke little of his wartime service. Only after his son was grown did Charles' neighbors in Fullerton convince him to share his story with others. He joined Fullerton's American Legion Post 142, where he became a quiet example of service to others and a fixture at events. In fact, one of those events was Fullerton's Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony where I had the honor to shake his hand. Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Charles Paul Pecoraro for his dedication to God, country, the arts and most of all his surviving family members, wife Lucy and son Charles. We are blessed to have had this man for a century and to have his memory continue to inspire us.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, this past Wednesday, I met with a group of high school students from my district who started a local March for Our Lives chapter to talk about the gun epidemic in our country. Then, 2 days later, we had another mass shooting in Virginia Beach. According to the Mass Shooting Tracker website, there have been over 181 mass shootings in the United States this year, with over 200 victims losing their lives. I am proud that we finally passed commonsense gun legislation in this House that expanded background checks, which is something over 90 percent of the American people wanted, but we need to do more. The shooting in Virginia Beach used both a silencer and a high- capacity magazine. We need legislation now to outlaw both of those items as well as automatic rifles. We need to allow the Centers for Disease Control to study the gun epidemic in our country so we can find a solution. But it is not just mass shootings that we need to address. Over two- thirds of all gun deaths in the United States are a result of suicides, and the number is rising. Over 20 veterans a day are committing suicide. We must also study firearm suicide and how it relates to mental health and how we can limit firearm access to those who are suffering. We have a problem in our country, and it is not just going to go away. Now is the time for action. Too many lives are at stake.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, healthcare is a right, not a privilege. Unfortunately, I know all too well what it is like to have family members without healthcare coverage. My mother went 15 years without health insurance, 15 years without seeing a doctor. My father used to drive to Mexico to get his diabetes medication because he had no insurance to cover the high cost. The Affordable Care Act has provided over 20 million people with insurance and allowed them to have access to healthcare; 9,000 of them are in my district. It has also provided protections for those with preexisting conditions, protections that this administration and my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have tried to take away. I have spoken with so many parents who may have a child with a heart condition, childhood diabetes, or asthma. If these protections are taken away, so many families won't be able to afford the necessary surgeries or medications for these kids. Let's do what is right for kids. Let's do what is right for families and protect the Affordable Care Act. Let's protect healthcare.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. Kennedy for his leadership on this issue and the members and staff on the House Armed Services Committee for helping bring this important resolution to the House floor. I served in the Navy during the time of Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Too many were forced to live their lives in secret, unable to be true to themselves. In 2016, transgender servicemembers were allowed to serve openly in the United States military, individuals like Lieutenant Commander Blake Dremann, who is still currently on Active Duty and who has deployed 11 times. During his testimony in the Military Personnel Subcommittee, he stated that his transition meant that he was no longer compartmentalizing parts of his life. He also stated that his decision to transition made him a better officer and a better leader. He has proven it by receiving the Navy Batchelder Award, which is given to Navy top Supply Corps officers. My support for Lieutenant Commander Dremann and all our transgender servicemembers is unequivocal. They have shown tremendous courage, and it is why I fight for inclusion and equality for the LGBTQ community. The President's policy is taking not only our military, but our country, backwards. It is unnecessary, and it is purely a discriminatory action against a group of individuals who want to do nothing more than serve their country. It is a disgusting attack on a community that he once swore to protect. He is attacking servicemembers who have already proven their ability to meet strategic needs and who pose no risk to unit cohesion or military readiness. As far as I am concerned, any person who has the courage, spirit, and commitment to serve our country in uniform when so many choose not to should be allowed to do so. I will vote to pass this resolution, and unlike the President, I will continue to advocate for and protect our LGBTQ community. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote in support of this resolution and denounce the President's hateful policy toward our servicemembers.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be discharged from further consideration of the bill (S. 252) to authorize the honorary appointment of Robert J. Dole to the grade of colonel in the regular Army, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Speaker, this emergency declaration unconstitutionally attempts to override Congress. The Constitution clearly grants Congress the power of the purse. This declaration took place after weeks of negotiations which resulted in Congress rejecting the President's wall in a bipartisan manner. This declaration could take billions of dollars of disaster relief aid from families, endanger military construction, and impact our military readiness. There is no national emergency at the southern border, only a humanitarian crisis created by our President. This President has repeatedly taken actions that undermine our country's ability to defend against real threats to national security. Congress must act as a check on the President's abuse of executive power. Congress has the opportunity to defend and protect the Constitution and assert its role as a coequal branch of government, and it must do so in order to set a precedent and protect our democracy. It is absolutely unacceptable that military families and communities across this country should be made to suffer from this unlawful and dangerous action. That is why I urge my colleagues to vote in support of this resolution and move forward with ending this fake national emergency.

Mr. CISNEROS

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment, No. 7, at the desk made in order by the rule.

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I sincerely thank my colleague, Ms. Brownley, for her steadfast leadership on this critical issue, and Mr. Takano for working with me to ensure consideration. Finally, I would like to thank the gentleman from Vermont (Mr. Welch) for cosponsoring this amendment. I rise to offer an amendment, which would require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to study how the VA could provide childcare assistance for veterans who receive covered healthcare services furnished by the VA at non-Department facilities. I am a strong supporter and cosponsor of H.R. 840 because I am committed to advancing policies that make it easier for all veterans to take advantage of their VA benefits they deserve. As a veteran with two young twin boys, I know firsthand that rambunctious young kids can often derail the best of plans. Providing safe, affordable, and convenient childcare for veterans who are parents and grandparents eliminates just one of those many barriers to quality care our veterans can face when trying to make health and mental health appointments. I rise to offer this amendment to ensure that my constituents are not left behind in this noble effort. Orange County, California, is home to the largest veteran population in the country, approximately 130,000 veterans, without its own VA hospital. This leaves many of my constituents without easy access to high-quality care our VA system provides. My amendment would direct the VA to conduct a feasibility study to determine how the Department of Veterans Affairs could provide childcare assistance for veterans who receive healthcare services far from a VA medical center campus. This includes my constituents seeking care at the Anaheim community-based orthopedic clinic. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this amendment to ensure we do not overlook veterans who could benefit from childcare services. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Takano).

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I just want to reiterate that this is a simple amendment to require a study by the VA within 1 year. I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment, No. 8, at the desk made in order by the rule.

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I want to quickly thank my colleague and chair of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Mr. Takano, for urging, in his testimony before the House Committee on Rules, that this amendment be made in order. I rise to offer an amendment which would include ``intensive healthcare services related to physical therapy for a service-connected disability'' in the definition of ``covered healthcare service.'' Physical therapy is an important aspect of any human process and is often necessary for veterans suffering from sustained pain or discomfort from a service-connected disability. This experience can often involve lengthy commitments and long commutes to achieve results. For my constituents, accessing physical therapy services at VA health clinics, receiving regular physical therapy means making a regular commitment to be stuck in traffic on the 405 to drive to the Long Beach VA hospital. My amendment will ensure that veterans in need of physical therapy for a service-connected disability are specifically afforded access to childcare services. VA benefits are not truly benefits if the costs associated with childcare during regular appointments place too large a burden on veteran caretakers. Veterans and their families face many obstacles when transitioning back to civilian life, but access to healthcare should not be one of them. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from California (Mr. Takano).

Mr. CISNEROS. Mr. Chairman, I just want to reiterate that this is a simple, commonsense amendment. I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.