Rosa DeLauro

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Let us reassert the Congress' role to ensure that the President--any President--is complying with the law and is not conducting lengthy military actions without congressional approval. Let us prevent another unnecessary war. Let us vote for this rule and this resolution.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this rule and the passage of the PFAS Action Act. This bill will build on the progress we made in the National Defense Authorization Act for 2020 by setting restrictions on PFAS contamination moving forward and cleaning up existing contaminations. PFAS chemicals are a class of chemicals that could be cancer-causing. They are called forever chemicals because they never leave your body. They can be found in Teflon, Scotchgard, firefighting foams, and food packaging. Increasingly, contamination from PFAS has been found in our food and our water supply, as well. As many as 100 million Americans could be drinking tap water contaminated with PFAS, according to the Environmental Working Group. This is alarming because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said exposure to PFAS can lower pregnancy rates, interfere with human body hormones, increase cholesterol levels, affect immune systems, and increase risks of cancer, while also affecting the learning, growth, and behavior of children and infants. This is serious. This fall, I held a briefing of the Congressional Food Safety Caucus, where leading experts presented the dangers of the use of PFAS in food packaging and how these chemical additives can contaminate our food. That is why I have called for a ban on PFAS in food packaging, and I am proud to have joined Congresswoman Chellie Pingree to ask the Government Accountability Office to review the actions that are being taken at the Federal level to evaluate the prevalence and the risk of chemical food contamination. There is no time for delay. The PFAS Action Act of 2019 is a comprehensive approach to protecting our communities from PFAS contamination. I commend my Democratic colleagues, especially Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and Chairman Frank Pallone. This bill will help ensure we are protecting people from these potentially cancer-causing forever chemicals. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I was honored to be appointed to the Speaker's working group charged with renegotiating the deeply flawed NAFTA agreement that the President signed in 2018. It enshrined the failed status quo that had hurt American workers while extending monopoly protections for pharmaceutical companies that would lock in high medicine prices. I was focused on crafting effective and meaningful standards to protect labor rights, constructing an enforcement mechanism for the U.S. and Mexico, strengthening and protecting environmental standards, and protecting access to affordable medicines. I was pleased the principles we presented to and, in many instances, forced on the USTR are reflected in the final agreement. Our gains include a labor-specific enforcement mechanism for new labor standards, a review body to ensure Mexico is meeting its obligations, penalties for goods and services not produced in compliance, and robust resources for monitoring and enforcement. Despite the President's rhetoric, this agreement will not bring back U.S. manufacturing jobs or undo the damage of outsourcing provisions in the Republican tax law. Despite our best efforts, it lacks more robust climate standards, labor and environmental terms, and protections for food and product safety. So, it is not the model for the future. Wage stagnation in America is not the inevitable result of globalization and technology. Special interests have shaped government policies that have held down wages and increased inequality. Nobel-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz said: ``Inequality is not inevitable. It is a choice we make.'' We made progress on this agreement. It is a framework to build on. I support the agreement and pledge to continue our work addressing globalization and trade policy.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I rise to discuss an issue of solemn, national importance. The impeachment of a president of the United States is not a step we take lightly, nor with anything but the seriousness it demands. But, we take it, because it is our duty to uphold our oath of office, the Constitution, and the trust that our constituents and the American people place in us. That is why I am voting for the articles of impeachment. President Donald Trump's actions are a dangerous departure from his oath of office and his duty to uphold the Constitution. As with many of my colleagues, I was reluctant to call for impeachment because I feared it would further divide our country, be perceived as overturning the 2016 election, and go to the United States Senate where Republicans would acquit President Trump regardless of the evidence. But the President's unchecked actions gave the Congress no other choice. Today, the House of Representatives is upholding its duty to protect the Constitution of the United States. Our founders set up a system of checks and balances, separation of powers, and rule of law so that no person would be above the law. That includes the President of the United States. The Constitutional recourse for ``treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors'' is clear: impeachment. It is a heavy price--intended only for matters of grave consequence to our republic. President Trump's actions meet that high bar, and that is why I am voting in favor of the articles of impeachment. The facts of the case against President Trump are indisputable. On July 25, 2019, President Trump called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and asked him to ``look into'' 2020 Presidential candidate Vice President Joe Biden and his son--an investigation solely for his own personal and political gain. In the weeks leading up to that call, the President withheld Congressionally-appropriated foreign aid to Ukraine, as well as a meeting between the two countries' presidents in the White House, as leverage. The President's abuse of power has been corroborated before the Congress by brave public servants over the last few months. Facing a Congressional investigation into these matters, President Trump ``directed the unprecedented, categorical, and indiscriminate defiance of subpoenas issued by the House of Representatives pursuant to its 'sole Power of Impeachment.''' In doing so, President Trump obstructed Congress's Constitutionally-authorized investigation. So, today, I will vote to uphold my responsibility, outlined in the oath I have taken and the Constitution. I will vote for the articles of impeachment.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I rise to speak about the fiscal year 2020 appropriations bill for the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee. The Labor-H bill reflects our priorities as a Nation. It touches our constituents at every single stage of their life, from birth to retirement, for their health, work, and education. It provides people with a better chance at a better life. For years, the Labor-H bill has been shortchanged. Now, we are making up for lost ground. We fought the Senate to win crucial investments. The result: a hard-fought, positive bill with a net increase of 3.5 percent over 2019, or $6.5 billion more for the people of this country. I first want to thank Congresswoman Nita Lowey, the full Appropriations Committee chair. Her leadership and dedication to Labor- H helped to ensure that this bill could create real opportunity for people. I thank our ranking member, Kay Granger, for her dedication and determination. And I acknowledge Congressman Tom Cole, my partner, the ranking member of the subcommittee. We have found common ground over and over again, which is rooted in our shared values about what is good for the people of this country. Let me describe some of the investments. Education: $550 million increase for Child Care and Development Block Grant; $550 million increase for Head Start and $25 million increase for preschool development grants; $450 million increase for title I, $400 million increase for special education, and a new initiative in social and emotional learning, including $65 million in innovation grants; $93 million increase for minority-serving institutions and a $150 increase to Pell grants. Health: $2.6 billion increase for National Institutes of Health and $637 million increase for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including tobacco prevention, public health data modernization, and suicide prevention; full funding for a new HIV initiative to eliminate new transmissions of HIV over the next decade; and continued high funding for State opioid grants. I am disheartened that the Republicans obstructed us from defending women's health from the administration's attack on the Title X program. We will continue that long fight, and we will win in the near term. All women's reproductive health must be on equal footing. An incredible win was $25 million for evidence-based gun violence prevention research, the first time in 20 years that we have provided money and resources to look at research on trying to prevent gun violence. It follows our hearing on gun violence research that was the first hearing that we had.

Ms. DeLAURO. The significance of the achievement cannot be overstated. It will save lives. Labor: $48 million increase for worker protection, $30 million increase for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State grants, $25 million increase for Job Corps, and a new $40 million grant for community colleges to train people for in-demand jobs. For too long, workers and families have been shortchanged. We fought hard. We are making up for lost ground. We can make opportunity real for people. Let me thank the staff on this job, subcommittee staff Robin Juliano, Stephen Steigleder, Jen Cama, Jackie Kilroy, Laurie Mignone, Jared Bass, Philip Tizzani, and Brad Allen; my staff Letty Mederos, Liz Albertine, and Caitlin Peruccio; and the minority staff Susan Ross and Kathryn Salmon. As I say, our names are on the door, but they do the work for us.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, It is with the heaviest of hearts that I rise today to join the many family, friends, and colleagues who have gathered to pay tribute to a very special member of the Middlefield, Connecticut community, Sebastian J. Aresco, who lost his battle with cancer late last week. Public servant, veteran, friend, and mentor, Seb's loss will be felt by many. Born in Middletown, Connecticut, Seb was a member of the United States Air Force and proudly served our country with distinction during the Vietnam War. He did not speak a lot about his time in the service, however, he spent countless hours with his fellow veterans throughout his life. He could often be found at events and programs sponsored by the local VFW. Seb was also very dedicated member of the Saint Colman Church community. In his professional life, Seb was a proud employee of the State of Connecticut--an auditor with the State Treasurer's office for several decades before his retirement just a few years ago. In his spare time, he could often be found at the shore, enjoying a day of fishing, grabbing a lobster or whole belly clam roll at Lenny and Joe's Fish Tale, or simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the ocean. Seb took great pride in his military and state service, but he was perhaps best known for his work in the political arena. He was raised to understand the importance of our political process and his life experiences highlighted them even more so. He wanted to make a difference in his community, and he did so through the art of politics. He served on various Boards and Commissions in Middlefield, but it was his leadership as the Chair of the local Democratic Party--a position which he held for more than thirty years--where Seb excelled. Seb was one of those rare individuals who volunteered his time, energy, and even his home to ensure that every member of his community was encouraged to participate in the political process. He was a mentor to many as they became involved in local government and navigated elected office. He also had a unique understanding of how local, state, and federal government could work together to improve the quality of life for all. Though Middlefield is one of the smaller communities in Connecticut, Seb's dedication, passion, and commitment earned him the respect and admiration of political leaders across the state. Put simply, Seb was one of the good ones. He had a quiet strength and heart of gold. I, like so many others, consider myself fortunate to have known him and to have called him my friend. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the community to which he dedicated so much of his time and energies. His tireless efforts as a veteran, state employee, and community leader made a real difference in the lives of others and I am honored to have this opportunity to stand and pay tribute to the life and legacy of Sebastian J. Aresco. I extend my deepest sympathies to his daughters, Amanda and Andrea, as well as his longtime companion, Joan, at this most difficult time, and hope that they can find comfort in knowing that Seb's legacy of public service, generosity, and kindness will continue to inspire all of those privileged enough to have known him.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, at this year's Liberty Science Center Genius Gala, two outstanding members of my District, and my very good friends, Drs. Sally and Bennett Shaywitz were recognized with a 2019 Genius Award in recognition of their invaluable contributions to the study of dyslexia and its impact on those afflicted with this frustrating learning disorder. Two of five visionary men and women of science bestowed this prestigious honor this year, this is a remarkable tribute to the lifetime of good work that Sally and Bennett have done. The world's leading experts on dyslexia, Sally and Bennett are the Co-Founders and Co-Directors of the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity. Academic physicians, Sally specializing in developmental pediatrics and Bennett a neurologist and neuroscientist, they worked together to discover dyslexia's scientific basis, pioneer effective therapies, and change public attitudes. Afflicting one in five people in the United States, dyslexia is our most common learning disorder and it has been through the leadership of Sally and Bennett that we better understand this disorder--why it happens and how it can change over time. Lab partners for thirty-five years--a partnership that is only outmatched by their marriage of fifty-five years--Sally and Bennett made it their life's work to understand how reading behavior might change from childhood to adulthood. Over the course of the last three and a half decades, they have continuously studied four hundred fifty- five people from the age of five. Their research has definitively demonstrated that dyslexia affects boys and girls in equal numbers, is not something that is outgrown, and is not linked to intelligence. Brain scan studies that Bennett conducted reveal a neural signature, a particular brain abnormality, is responsible for dyslexia. The results of their dedicated efforts have debunked the myth that those with dyslexia are simply less intelligent and has enabled physicians, scientists, teachers, and policy makers to better understand how to best help those affected by the disorder. The Library Science Center is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers and to exciting learners of all ages about the power, promise, and pure fun of science and technology. Each year their Genius Awards Gala honors pioneers in science, technology, and innovation. It is a fitting recognition of the lifetime achievement of this special couple. It is with great pride that I stand today to join the New Haven community in extending my heartfelt congratulations to Sally and Bennett Shaywitz on this very special honor.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to join the many family, friends, and colleagues who have gathered to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Read to Grow, a non-profit organization in Connecticut whose mission is to improve early literacy, and to pay tribute to the organization's founder, Roxanne J. Coady, who recently stepped down as founding board chair. Roxanne's extraordinary vision has impacted thousands of families and children across Connecticut. Roxanne's passion for books and reading led to her second career. She left her role as the first female National Tax Director at BDO Seidman, for Madison, Connecticut where she restored a downtown building, establishing RJ Julia Booksellers and she, along with an incredible group of booksellers, transformed her charming local store into a nationally recognized authority on books. She also recently opened a second location, Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore, in Middletown, Connecticut which not only returned a bookstore downtown, but also serves as the official bookstore for Wesleyan University. In fact, RJ Julia's is well-known for hosting book signing events, not only with local authors but with recognized celebrities such as lifestyle and fashion icon Lauren Conrad, Today show co-anchor and Dateline NBC correspondent, Hoda Kotb, former first daughters and bestselling authors Jenna Bush Hager and Barbara Pierce Bush, and just recently former Secretary of the State Hillary Clinton and her daughter Chelsea Clinton. Her dedication and passion have earned her a distinguished reputation and she has built a remarkable success. Roxanne wanted to do more--she wanted to ensure that every child was exposed to the wonders and magic of the written word and that every parent was empowered as their babies' first teachers. She knew that not every child and parent had that opportunity. And so, with a small group of like-minded women, she founded Read To Grow. Read To Grow's mission is to build literacy from birth and over the last twenty years they have done just that. Under Roxanne's leadership, they have expanded their programs to include the Books for Babies Program, the Books for Kids Program, and the Early Steps to School Success Program; they have had more than two million books donated, provided more than three hundred thousand newborn literacy packets, and opened thirty-four book places, where parents can select free books for their kids. Through this variety of programs and services, Read To Grow has impacted more than one million adults, children, and babies. It has been a special experience to work with Read To Grow and Roxanne during my tenure in Congress. I would be remiss if I did not extend a special note of thanks to Roxanne for the kindness and generosity she has extended to myself and my husband over the years, hosting book signings for each of us and providing support as well as guidance on issues of literacy to myself and my staff. I consider myself fortunate to call her my friend. As Read To Grow marks its 20th Anniversary and Roxanne steps down as the founding board chair, she can be proud of the strong foundation on which this wonderful organization has been built. I have no doubt that it will long stand as one of her greatest legacies. Today, it is my honor to stand and extend my deepest thanks, appreciation and heartfelt congratulations to Roxanne J. Coady for her exceptional contributions to our community. Her good work has left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Pete Szymanski who we lost unexpectedly earlier this year. Pete was an extraordinary soul whose kind heart and generosity touched the lives of many. Pete was a dedicated member of our military having served as a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corps and served on active duty at the Detroit Arsenal in Michigan as well as the Army Reserve. Following his active duty service, Pete began a 33-year civilian career with the Army at the Detroit Arsenal before moving to the Stratford Army Engine Plant (SAEP) where he served for 22 years, retiring just this past February. It was through the SAEP that I had the opportunity to meet Pete. He was Army Installation Manger and, though the property was closed many years ago through a Base Realignment and Closure process, Pete remained at the site, hoping to see the property transferred for redevelopment before his retirement. Unfortunately, we are still working towards that goal. I would be remiss if I did not extend a special note of thanks to Pete for his willingness to work with myself and my staff over the years as we have worked with the Army and the Stratford community to move the transfer and redevelopment process forward. Pete played a unique and special role in the closure of the SAEP. He was determined that the site would not become just another abandoned eyesore. It was Pete who both envisioned and executed a plan to dispose of the excess Allied Signal machinery in a way that garnered millions of dollars for the Army and it was Pete that approved the use of the SAEP as a redistribution point for the 9-11 recovery supplies. He carefully budgeted every penny of the scarce budget he managed to ensure that the property remained properly maintained. It was also Pete who showed his support for the community by opening the facilities for a variety of activities including K-9 training and the Viki Soto SK, an annual run in memory of the young Stratford teacher whose life was cut tragically short at the school shooting in Newtown. Pete Szymanski was an extraordinary man whose commitment and dedication to his job and his community earned him the respect and admiration of friends, colleagues, and community leaders alike. Today, I am honored to rise to pay tribute to his memory and to extend my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Kathryn, and their family. Pete's passing will leave a hole in the hearts of all those who knew them and a void in the community that will never quite be filled.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, every so often I find myself in awe of our next generation. Just recently, I had the opportunity to read a presentation by Rosie Harris during her pa1iicipation in the Model Congress program as a member of the Dalton School Delegation. It was inspiring and so I would like to share her authorization speech as well as her legislative proposal, the Menstrual Parity Act of 2019. If this is the leadership and vision we can expect from the next generation, I believe we are indeed in good hands. ``Hello. I am Representative Harris. Friends, colleagues, I rise to introduce the Menstrual Parity Act of 2019. Half of our country is female and on average, female bodied people menstruate once a month for 40 years. In this country, women have been treated as second class citizens since the beginning of time. While we have mad some progress, and there are plenty of other areas that need work. My bill proposes one small but incredibly important aspect of the fight towards equality--a step towards economic equality.'' ``This is simple. The Menstrual Parity Act of 2019 does the following: In any place we have facilities open to the public (ie. parks, libraries, you name it), where toilets or bathrooms are made available, this act would require that if toilet paper is provided for free, menstrual products would be provided for free as well. It's simple but meaningful progress. At the federal level, we require it. At the state level, we will reimburse the entire costs of it. And that's that.'' ``And you might ask, well, Harris, how would you guarantee this? Expansion of Title IX, a federal civil rights law passed in 1972 prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or federally funded programs. Here are a few facts just to put this in context: On average, women earn 80 cents on the dollar to men, according to the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey, as reliable a source as exists; Women are 23.6 percent more likely to be in poverty than men; and it is estimated that the lifetime cost for only menstruation is over 18,000 dollars, which have the country doesn't have to pay, and is a whole lot of money for one individual.'' ``Some concerns you might have. It's expensive. The Federal annual budget is over 3 trillion dollars, so in the big scheme of things, this is really not that much money for government. Surely the richest country in the history of the world could afford to make basic menstrual products available, as they do with toilet paper, another basic hygienic product. Toilet paper is expensive too, and it turns out, you need toilet paper much more often than menstrual products. It is cheaper to pay for a few more tampons than to cover an emergency room visit for a women suffering from Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) from a lack of access to sufficient menstrual products. You may say this is too big government. I would argue that it is not big government providing toilet paper, and once we enact this law, before you know it, it will be shocking to people that we didn't do this before.'' ``Having access to hygienic products is a basic sanitary need so those of us who menstruate can stay healthy. When there is not access to appropriate menstrual products, often products are used for too long, which could lead to extreme risk of contracting TSS, or things like brown paper bags, or wash cloths are used in their place, which is not safe.'' ``I'd ask you to consider, especially if you are not directly affected by the measures in this bill, what this bill might mean to your mothers, or daughters, or partners, and friends. Finally, this bill will be a message to all in our country of the importance of women's health--after all, you wouldn't be here without us. I ask for your support and thank you for your consideration. I yield back the balance of my time to the chair.'' The Dalton Model Congress 2019--House Committee on Education and the Workforce Name: Rosie Harris. Title of the Bill: The Menstrual Parity Act of 2019. Delegation: The Dalton School. Committee: Education and the Workforce. Be It Enacted by the Dalton Model Congress . . . Preamble: Whereas women make up half of the population of the United States, whereas women on average have their period on a monthly basis for 40 years, whereas women on average earn only 80 cents of every dollar men earn for the same work, whereas 13.6% of women live in poverty, whereas women are 23.6% more likely to be in poverty than men, whereas 17.5% of children Jive in poverty who are disproportionately dependent on women to raise them, whereas menstruation involves costs that generally incur every month, whereas obtaining full equality for women necessitates economic equality, whereas it is estimated that the lifetime cost of a period can be over $18,000, and whereas toilet paper is available in every public bathroom in the country, be it resolved, that this committee authorizes such sums as necessary so that every public bathroom that provides toilet paper also provide appropriate menstrual products. Section 1 Short Title: This Act may be cited as the ``The Menstrual Parity Act of 2019''. Section 2 Definitions: Accommodations include all public facilities that are accessible to the general public, and provide access to bathrooms with toilets. Section 2 Federal Accommodations: Every federal public accommodation that provides free toilet paper must also provide free menstrual products. Sub-Section A: Menstrual products must be refilled as often as toilet paper. Section 3 State Accommodations: Every state public accommodation that provides free toilet paper, who also provide free menstrual products that are made as available as toilet paper, will be reimbursed in full for the menstrual products. Sub-Section A: Menstrual products must be refilled as often as toilet paper. Section 4 Enforcement: Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 shall be expanded to include enforcement of the provisions from Sections 2 and 3. Section 5 Appropriations: The Committee on Appropriations shall provide such sums as necessary for (1) public accommodations that receive appropriations for toilet paper to be able to meet this new mandate and (2) for the Title IX expansion. Section 6 Enactment: This bill will be enacted 91 days after passage.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, just a few weeks ago I had the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a local fundraiser for the Kick For Nick Foundation and was so inspired by the generosity of the participants and the mission of the Foundation that I wanted to share the experience with my colleagues. PFC Nicholas A. Madaras of Wilton, Connecticut served our country bravely in Iraq until his life was cut tragically short by an IED on September 3, 2006. He was just 19 years old and weeks away from the scheduled end of his deployment. Nick had been an avid soccer player, coach, and referee growing up and when he had last came home on leave he had shared stories about connecting with young Iraqi children through the sport, often using anything they could find as a ball, most times nothing more than a tin can. Nick asked friends and family to send him a few soccer balls to share with the children in Baqubah. Unfortunately, he never got that chance. Yet, from their grief, Nick's family and friends found a new mission--a way to pay tribute to Nick's memory, his passion for soccer, and his desire to make a difference in the lives of the children he had met in the war-tom country where he served. Shortly after his passing, Nick's family was approached by Ken Dartley, also of Wilton, who had read Nick's story and asked to start a program collecting soccer balls in his honor to fulfill his wish to share his love and passion for the game with Iraqi children. It was through this first effort that the Kick For Nick Foundation was born. What began with a few soccer balls in a net donated at the James P. Whipple American Legion Post 86 in Wilton has since grown exponentially with over 50,000 soccer balls having been donated and distributed to date. The Kick For Nick Foundation has received donations from 47 of the 50 states and, prior to distribution, each one is inscribed three times with Nick's name. Initially the balls were distributed only by US troops in Iraq, but over the years, in addition to soldiers, the distribution network has grown to include US military contractors, volunteers, individuals, schools, and charitable organizations. Balls have been given to underprivileged children in more than 50 countries including Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, Bhutan, Guatemala, Colombia. Beyond, the distribution of soccer balls, when they have the opportunity and the supplies, Kick For Nick has also provided uniforms, cleats, shin guards, personal hygiene supplies such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, school supplies such as pencils, notebooks and backpacks, as well as occasional food supplies. As I walked through the fundraiser and the many who had gathered to support the Foundation, I was inspired by the displays showing pictures of troops distributing the balls and of notes of thanks from the soldiers distributing them as well as the young people receiving them. I had the opportunity to speak with Nick's father, Bill, as well as several of his family members, finding myself in awe of their strength and determination to ensure Nick's memory continues to make a difference in the world. The Kick For Nick Foundation is an extraordinary effort and a wonderful tribute to PFC Madaras. It is my hope that their success continues to grow and that they can continue in their mission to foster peace, good will and stability across the globe by collecting soccer balls and delivering them into the hands of underprivileged children around the world--honoring the memory of PFC Nicholas A. Madaras and giving life to his dream of bringing a bit of hope and joy to children living in difficult circumstances

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to take a moment to recognize an extraordinary program sponsored by the Connecticut State Library--``Digging Into History.'' This extraordinary program brought together fifteen Connecticut high school students, five of which I am proud to say are from my District, to take part in a unique learning experience and community service project. The first German offensive against American troops during World War I took place on April 20, 1918 in the village of Seicheprey, France. It was Connecticut troops from the 102nd Infantry Regiment, also known as the ``Yankee Division,'' that came under attack that morning as the German forces launched the surprise offensive. The battle of Seicheprey occurred on the southern side of the St. Mihiel salient. There, three companies of the Yankee Division's 102nd Regiment occupied a trench, known as the Sibille trench. The battle raged throughout the day with heavy losses on both sides and the village was destroyed. After the war's end, Connecticut citizens collected $5,000 to help rebuild the water supply and installed a fountain with a plaque in the town square. A bond had been forged between Connecticut and Seicheprey. In recognition of the 100th anniversary of this battle and as a way to strengthen that bond, the ``Digging Into History'' program was created. The program brought fifteen Connecticut high school students to Seicheprey to take part in a community service project to clear and restore a section of the trenches Connecticut soldiers occupied, with the goal of creating a historic attraction to help spur tourism in the region. The students worked with sixteen French students as well as military historians to clear vegetation from the trenches, re-dig sections and restore the trenches to how they appeared a century ago. It was an extraordinary opportunity for these young people, bringing the history of World War I to life for them, and today they are sharing that experience with the presentation of ``Digging Into History: Back From the Trenches.'' Having had visited Normandy and other such sites myself, I can imagine how thrilling this project must have been. Though Congressional business keeps me in Washington for the event in Hartford, I hope to be able to see the presentation myself soon. These fifteen young men and women have been incredible ambassadors for their communities, the State of Connecticut, and our nation. I am honored to have this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to them for their remarkable work on this project. I also want to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to the Connecticut State Library for their work to organize this once in a lifetime experience for these young people. I have no doubt it is a journey they will never forget.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is my great privilege to rise today to join the family, friends and colleagues who have gathered in celebration of Lindy Lee Gold as she marks her 75th Birthday--a remarkable milestone for this very special member of the New Haven community. As a Senior Specialist with the Connecticut State Department of Economic and Community Development, a position she had held since 1998, Lindy has dedicated her professional career to expanding opportunities for Connecticut's businesses and its workforce. However, there are few members of the New Haven community who have been more involved with the City's many facets than Lindy. She is perhaps most well known for her dedication and tireless advocacy efforts--from the arts to education, local government to community development, Lindy has played a critical role in New Haven's success. Lindy's foray into public service began with her appointment to New Haven's Board of Education where she was vice chair of the Intergroup Relations Taskforce. She went on to win election for two terms on New Haven's Board of Alders representing the 26th Ward where she served as chair of the Legislation Committee and as a member of the Finance Committee. Lindy currently serves as board chair of the Gateway Community College Foundation, a position she has held for the last decade, as a Fellow at Yale's Pierson College, and as a member of the Executive Board of the Shubert Performing Arts Center. She is also a board member of the United Way of Greater New Haven, the Community Action Agency, New Haven Arts Council, Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, and the New Haven Manufacturers Association. She also was founder and the first female president of Fellowship Inc, and Cornerstone Inc., and is past president of the Jewish Community Center of Greater New Haven. Lindy's civic contributions are hardly limited to New Haven. In addition to her many contributions to our fair City, she serves on a multitude of organizations across the state. Lindy is Vice-President of the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut as well as a member of the state board of the Anti-Defamation League. She also holds board memberships with the Housatonic Community College Foundation, Southern Connecticut State University Foundation, JobLinks Fairfield County, Connecticut Technical High Schools, and the Women's Business Development Center. Lindy's commitment is extraordinary and she has built a legacy of service which serves as an inspiration to many. Advocate, mentor, and friend, wherever Lindy goes she makes an impact. Her endless energy and dedication make all the difference. I, like so many others, consider myself fortunate to call her my friend. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Lindy Lee Gold on the celebration of her 75th birthday. I wish her all the best for many more years of health and happiness. Happy Birthday.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I rise today to remember and pay tribute to my dear friend, James Bohan, who was taken from us much too soon as he lost his hard-fought battle with cancer. I am heartbroken for his wife Janice, and his two children, Jim Jr. and Jennifer. Jim was one of a kind and I, like all those fortunate enough to have known him, will miss him. If there were two things you knew about Jim Bohan, it was that he ``worked for the City'' for too many years to count and that he was enormously proud of his Irish heritage. Jim had a story for any occasion, with most of them starting ``when I worked for the City . . .'' and the rest of them some adventure or antic that had ensued at ``the Parade.'' He was a storyteller and would impart his knowledge to anyone willing to listen. Jim dedicated his professional life to housing and community development. He began his career at the New Haven Redevelopment Agency as an Administrative Assistant with the Hill Project Office where he served as a liaison between federal officials and the City and developed planning proposals for neighborhood schools, housing, and parks. He went on to spend nearly a decade at the organization as a Development Officer where he was responsible for monitoring construction projects across the City as well as liaising with state and local elected officials and community groups. In 1976, he began his career with the City of New Haven as the Coordinator of the Neighborhood Preservation Program. Jim would eventually go on to serve in the City's Development Administration where he was really a jack-of- all-trades. He was the Coordinator of Protocol, organizing major public events around the City; a liaison between various City Departments and local engineering firms; and the manager of the site selection process for the City Infill Housing Program to name just a few. It was from the Development Administration that Jim retired from City service in 1990. Jim's retirement from the City turned out to be one of my most fortunate opportunities. Having been elected to my first term in the United States Congress, I found myself in search of trusted staff who would be able to manage the volumes of constituent services that were in demand. Jim was one of the first members of my staff. From his long history with the City of New Haven, Jim was not only familiar with the City at its heart but also with neighboring communities that made up Connecticut's 3rd Congressional District. Over the decade Jim worked with me, we spent countless hours traveling to events and meeting across the District. He became so much more than a staff member and friend--he became family. And though he left the Congressional office in 2002, he stayed in touch through frequent visits and passing on a variety of constituent requests. As I mentioned, Jim was extraordinarily proud of his Irish heritage and he made every effort to celebrate and share his heritage with everyone he knew. Nothing demonstrates that more than his dedication to the Greater New Haven St. Patrick's Day Parade--the City's annual tribute to all things Irish. Jim was a dedicated member of the parade committee for many years and served as Grand Marshal in 1981. He went on to serve as the Parade's Executive Chairman for nearly a decade and, even after stepping down from the Executive Committee, Jim served as the Parade Coordinator--perhaps the most thankless of jobs--for a number of years. Even after he and Janice bought a home in Florida, Jim would make frequent trips to New Haven for parade meetings and, of course, the parade itself. The shrine in his home, a collection of memorabilia and keepsakes, speaks to the special place the Parade and the Committee held in his heart. In his retirement, Jim also followed another of his passions-- firefighting. The son of Captain in the New Haven Fire Department, Jim proudly followed in his footsteps becoming a volunteer with the Branford Fire Department for many years. Jim's fascination with his father's legacy could be seen in his collection of hundreds of carefully crafted fire engine models which he painstakingly built in his free time. One of his other favorite pastimes was serving in the Connecticut Foot Guard's 2nd Company--a historical state military organization whose members volunteer their time and talents to events and programs across Connecticut. I consider myself fortunate to have called Jim my friend and, like for so many others, his absence will leave a hole that will never quite be filled. I extend my deepest sympathies to Janice, Jim Jr. and Jennifer. I hope that they know what an incredible impact he had on the lives of his friends and colleagues. Jim will be missed but never forgotten.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and so I missed Roll Call vote number 564 regarding passage of the SEC Disclosure Effectiveness Testing Act. Had I been present, I would have voted ``Yes.''

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Mount Zion Seventh Day Adventist Church, its staff, and congregation as they commemorate their 100th Anniversary. This is a remarkable milestone for this community treasure and certainly cause for great celebration. Through its many ministries, the members of Mount Zion nourish their souls as well as those they serve. From educating young people and organizing exciting activities for them to providing information on healthier food options and recipes for families, the congregation is enriching the lives of others throughout the community. Our churches play a vital role in our communities--providing people with a place to turn to for comfort when they are most in need. The members of Mount Zion have also given much to the Town of Hamden. Throughout the years, as their membership grew so did its commitment to the community. By strengthening our bonds of faith, Mount Zion gives its members a place to find their spiritual center and to solidify and support their values. In its 100-year history, the Mount Zion Seventh Day Adventist Church has built a strong foundation and its success is due to the dedication and commitment of each and every member of its congregation. Through their ministry and outreach efforts, they have left an indelible mark on our community and continue to enrich the lives of others. That is why I am so pleased to stand today to offer my sincere congratulations as they mark this very special centennial anniversary. The families, parishioners, and staff have much to be proud of as they celebrate this 100th anniversary year.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Chair, forced arbitration is one of the central ways that corporate America has rigged the system against middle class families and working people. It undermines our democracy. With forced arbitration, employers can force an employee to waive their right to seek justice in court. They need to accept arbitration, which is a private legal process, without a judge or a jury. The Economic Policy Institute predicts that by 2024, 80 percent of nonunion private sector workers will have lost their right to seek justice in court. With forced arbitration, working people lose the ability to file an individual class action lawsuit if their rights are violated. They lose the ability to hold bad acting employers to account in an open and impartial forum. And they often lose in their fight for justice. Let's level the playing field, restore justice for millions of working people, pass the FAIR Act, and prohibit forced arbitration agreements from being valid or enforceable if they require arbitration of employment, consumer, antitrust, or civil rights disputes. No one should have to give up the right to justice. Let's pass the FAIR Act.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is an honor for me to rise today to join friends, family, colleagues, and community leaders who have gathered today to celebrate Alison Cunningham as she bids farewell to Columbus House, the organization she has fearlessly and adeptly led for more than two decades. There is no one reason why an individual becomes homeless and so there is no one solution that will end it. More than three decades ago a group of folks concerned with the plight of the homeless came together and began what has become one of the strongest, most respected advocacy organizations for the homeless in our state. For most of its existence, the mission of Columbus House has been guided by Alison Cunningham, whose unparalleled passion to make a difference is reflected in every success they enjoy. Alison's commitment is nothing short of inspiring and it has encouraged hundreds of supporters to volunteer their time and energy to support this extraordinary organization. Under Alison's direction, Columbus House has continued to grow and expand to meet the ever-changing needs of our homeless population. Today, the small staff of ninety come from all walks of life--many are former clients themselves which provides them a unique perspective not only from which to provide services, but also to direct the organization's efforts. Columbus House also partners with a variety of local service agencies with the goal of ensuring that all of their clients receive access to every possible opportunity to transition from homelessness. With facilities in New Haven and Middletown and a presence in Waterbury, New Britain and elsewhere, programs and services that range from shelter and meal service to employment, recovery, and case management, Columbus House has touched the lives of hundreds of our most vulnerable citizens. Columbus House is a community effort in every sense of the word, and it is because of the strong leadership and vision that Alison has provided. I have been proud to work with her during my tenure in Congress and consider myself fortunate to call her my friend. Over the course of her career, Alison has grown into a respected leader in her field with her expertise often be sought out by neighboring communities as well as elected leaders. In fact, over the last several years, she has been a member of the task force that directed a state-wide change to a successful approach to ending chronic homelessness, which combines providing permanent housing with the necessary social services on site for clients. To say her everyday presence at Columbus House will be missed is an understatement, however, I have no doubt that, though she is pursuing a new opportunity, Alison will remain a staunch and active supporter of Columbus House and the people they serve. Though I will miss her leadership at Columbus House, I was excited to learn that Alison will be taking on a new and unique role at the Yale Divinity School where she will help guide students there interested in the kind of nonprofit work to which she has dedicated her professional life. Her students will be learning from one of the best and that can only benefit those non-profits that they will eventually lead. It is my great honor to stand today to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to Alison Cunningham for the visionary leadership and tireless advocacy she has brought to Columbus House, the City of New Haven and the State of Connecticut. I wish her all the best in this new endeavor and have no doubt that it will be a great success.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Judy Schneider of the Congressional Research Service for her service to the United States Congress and the American people. After over 40 years of dedicated service, Ms. Schneider is retiring. When I was first elected to Congress, Ms. Schneider was my most valuable resources for learning how this institution functions. She helped me understand parliamentary procedure, and even took the time to role play scenarios with me so I could best serve my constituents. When Democrats lost the Majority in 1994, Ms. Schneider gave me all the tools I needed to tackle being in the Minority. Over her storied career, she has honed a singular knowledge of the legislative and political process and has shared this insight for the benefit of the institution and the young people who came to this city to make opportunity real for their communities and their country. It is thanks to Ms. Schneider that many of my colleagues in Congress are able to serve their constituents every day. She taught me everything I know about the steering process, a key part of Congress' work. I still use the knowledge Ms. Schneider shared with me every day. As well as helping to guide Members of Congress and their staff through the procedures of this institution, she has helped countless young professions through her Direct Connect to Congress classes. Ms. Schneider leaves behind a legacy of hard work and dedication to mentoring other professionals dedicated to civil service that will live on in the Women in Government Relations Judy Schneider Fellowship program. One of my personal heroes, Shirley Chisholm, said ``service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.'' Ms. Schneider has certainly paid her rent. The Congress is a place long in history and deep with complexity. It can be a labyrinth where passionate individuals dedicated to service become separated from their original aspirations. It has been Judy who has, again and again, helped others navigate the path to change. I congratulate her on 40 years of service and I thank her for impacting the lives of hundreds of young people, staff and members. It is my honor and privilege today to recognize Ms. Judy Schneider for her hard work and dedication, and to wish her the best of luck in her new retirement. She will be greatly missed.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, let's be clear. Since Franklin Roosevelt, the Federal Government has been increasing the Federal wage. Don't let them get away with this hogwash about what we do and what we don't do here. Wages for the top 1 percent have grown 150 percent since 1979. Wages for middle-class families and working families have stagnated. Their wages do not keep up with the skyrocketing costs of healthcare, prescription drugs, childcare, housing, and a college education. This is the single biggest economic challenge of our time. So, today, full-time, year-round work at the Federal minimum wage of $7.25 leaves a family of three below the Federal poverty line. It is unacceptable, because working people have more than earned a raise. According to the Economic Policy Institute, if the minimum wage increased equal to the increases in workers' productivity, it would be more than $20 an hour. Congress needs to make this right. Clearly, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle do not respect the work of 34 million Americans. They don't respect the dignity of the work that these folks do. It is our job. Let us pass the Raise the Minimum Wage Act. Working people are doing their jobs. Let us do ours. I include in the Record a letter from the AFT, the American Federation of Teachers. American Federation of Teachers, Washington, DC, July 17, 2019. Hon. Robert ``Bobby'' Scott, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Rep. Scott: On behalf of the 1.7 million members of the American Federation of Teachers, I thank you for introducing the Raise the Wage Act of 2019 (H.R. 582). By raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 per hour by 2024, H.R. 582 would empower millions of struggling Americans to make ends meet and support their families. The federal minimum wage was last raised to $7.25 per hour in 2009, and, over the past decade, the cost of living has increased at a pace that significantly exceeds the average earnings of a minimum wage worker. Raising the wage is a matter of economic and social justice because a $15 minimum wage would lift millions out of poverty, help close the racial and gender wage gaps, and help reverse decades of growing pay inequality. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 by 2024 would give more than 1 in 3 working women a raise, including 43 percent of African American working women, 38 percent of working Latinas, 32 percent of white working women, and 20 percent of Asian and Pacific Islander working women. Of particular note for the AFT, our research tells us that one-fifth of educators and one-fourth of healthcare workers would get a raise under H.R. 582--including but not limited to preschool teachers, who on average earn $13.84 per hour; substitute teachers, who average $13.47 per hour; child care workers, who earn an average of $10.18 per hour; and home healthcare workers, who on average receive $10.87 per hour. With higher wages, more Americans would be better able to afford food, clothing, housing and other necessities, which, in turn, would support local businesses and economic growth. Too many hardworking families in the United States are being forced to depend on poverty-level wages. Congress can help strengthen our economy and lift families out of poverty by raising the federal minimum wage. Thank you for your introduction of H.R. 582. Sincerely, Randi Weingarten, President.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Alyssa Naeher, the Connecticut-born U.S. Women's National Soccer Team goalkeeper. The United States team once again proved that they are the best in the world. And throughout the World Cup, Alyssa--who grew up in Stratford, Connecticut, in my district, and played at Christian Heritage School in Trumbull--provided crucial play after crucial play. None was more important or heart-stopping than her save against England. By stopping a penalty kick with time winding down, she single- handedly saved the United States' championship hopes. And Alyssa is more than just a champion. She is a role model as the team champions the issue of equal pay for them and for millions of women and families nationwide. Clearly, the time is now for the United States Senate to pass H.R. 7, the Paycheck Fairness Act, which has said men and women in the same job deserve the same pay. What better tribute, my friends, to the talent, to the determination, and to the commitment of these outstanding young women. Mr. Speaker, again, I congratulate Alyssa. Connecticut could not be more proud.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this emergency supplemental bill. Madam Speaker, the principles guiding this bill were clear from the outset. It is a response to a humanitarian crisis. By increasing the housing capacity at Health and Human Services to moving these vulnerable children from the detention centers at Customs and Border Protection as quickly as possible to Health and Human Services, because we know what the conditions are at CBP. They are deplorable. In fact, it is government-sponsored child abuse. We wanted to build in the protections for children that have been nonexistent in the past, and we uncovered those abuses. They have been reported in the press. The Miami Herald just recently said they are ``prison-like conditions'' at Homestead. And we wanted to place children with a sponsor in a safe placement, a safe environment, as expeditiously as possible to reverse the administration's policy of frightening sponsors to come forward. This bill includes strong protections and safeguards for these vulnerable children; it extends to the influx shelters' enhanced standards of care. And, my friends, it is for the first time ever. These protections have never been required of these influx shelters. It continues to prevent the waiving of core standards and protections after 6 months. It continues to hold influx shelters accountable by requiring HHS to remove an operator if they do not comply with these core standards. If the shelter is not in compliance, then HHS is required to award the contract to a new service provider, and the bill continues to protect sponsors and potential sponsors by extending a provision that prohibits funds from being used to put anyone into a removal proceeding based on information from HHS' sponsor-vetting process. The bill continues to require HHS to maintain the directives that they issued in December that removed bureaucratic barriers and have helped to place these children with sponsors as expeditiously as possible. And the bill continues to require HHS to report to Congress within 24 hours if an unaccompanied child dies in HHS custody.

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, a child did die in HHS custody. No one knew about this for 8 months, and it was only the news media that uncovered it. A child died. This bill continues to ensure that Members of Congress can conduct oversight visits of shelters without being required to provide advance notice, and the bill continues to protect taxpayer funding by prohibiting funds from being diverted to programs outside of Health and Human Services. This bill provides clear direction, legal guardrails, about how our emergency funds should be used, and this bill wages the battle for the vulnerable. Madam Speaker, I urge every Member of this House to support this bill.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker. It is with great pleasure that I rise today to join family, friends, and colleagues in extending my heartfelt congratulations, deepest thanks, and sincere appreciation to Susan Lloyd Yolen as she marks her retirement after thirty-two years of dedicated service to Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Susan has dedicated her professional life to ensuring that those served by PPSNE have had access to the health care and services that they need. As Vice President of Public Policy & Advocacy, Susan has also been a strong voice on both the local and national stages for Planned Parenthood and the families they serve. Throughout her thirty-two-year career, she spent countless hours leading the organization's efforts to fight for quality, affordable healthcare, as well as reducing teen birth rates and reducing racial and ethnic health disparities by removing barriers to services and information. Susan's steadfast commitment has earned her the respect and admiration not only of her colleagues at PPSNE, but that of the legislators and community activists who had the opportunity to work with her. I would be remiss if I did not take a moment to extend a special note of thanks to Susan for her friendship and support over the years. She has been an invaluable resource to both myself and my staff. Susan has only ever been a phone call away and I, like so many others, consider myself fortunate to call her my friend. I am confident that I speak for everyone who has had the opportunity to work with Susan over the years when I say her passion, compassion, tenacity, and commitment will be deeply missed. Planned Parenthood of Southern New England stands as a model for affiliates across the country and that is in large part because of Susan Yolen. Advocate, mentor, and friend, she has left an indelible mark on this outstanding organization and a legacy that will continue to inspire others to ensure that everyone has access to the affordable, quality reproductive health care they need and deserve. I am honored to stand today to extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Susan, for her outstanding leadership and good work, as well as my very best wishes for many more years of health and happiness as she enjoys her retirement.