Rosa DeLauro

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this amendment.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I oppose this amendment because it undermines the Drug Quality and Security Act, which we passed here in 2013 to protect patients from contaminated compounded medications, which are drugs that are tailored to the specific needs of an individual patient. By the way, there is bipartisan opposition to the Carter amendment: myself, Congressman Fred Upton, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, and Congressman Mike Bishop. This is bipartisan opposition. Let me be clear. The intent of the law was not to go after local compounding pharmacies but, rather, the larger compounding pharmacies who act as big drug companies. Traditional pharmaceutical companies that make vast quantities of drugs are held to robust safety standards. If these large compounding pharmacies intend to manufacture large quantities of drugs like a traditional pharmaceutical company and ship them across State lines, then they should be held to a similar safety standard. This amendment would change the law and put patients at risk. Some people can potentially die. This is not hyperbole, given that a meningitis outbreak in 2012 was caused by unsafe compounded drugs. That was less than 5 years ago. I am astonished that we would entertain further undermining of the law. The meningitis outbreak associated with the New England Compound Center in 2012 led to 64 deaths and more than 750 illnesses across State lines. There are inherent risks with compounding medications, and particularly with compounded medications shipped across State lines. That is why, in fact, we passed the Drug Quality and Security Act. By prohibiting the FDA from implementing this law, this amendment exposes patients to a potentially life-threatening catastrophe. Again, as we saw in 2012, this amendment also takes away incentives for pharmacies to register as an outsourcing facility and gives these facilities no reason to raise their quality and safety standards and to submit to the FDA for inspection. We owe it to the American people to not put their health and their safety at risk. Sixty-four people died. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO. How much time do I have remaining, Mr. Chairman?

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Michigan (Mrs. Dingell).

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, why are we afraid of safety standards? The safety concerns with this amendment are also exacerbated by the fact that many States do not exercise appropriate oversight over compounding pharmacies. A recent study revealed that nearly half of all States surveyed do not track the number of pharmacies that perform the sterile compounding in their State. They make proactive State oversight impossible. Do we really want to allow these facilities to go unchecked? That is exactly what this amendment allows. The FDA is a regulatory agency. It needs the ability to regulate large-scale shipment of compounded drugs across State lines, especially in certain States that have minimal, if any, safeguards for drugs compounded in pharmacies. I was concerned that this law was weak to begin with, and this amendment would further weaken and threaten the safety of patients. Sixty-four people died, 22 of them in Michigan. We should ensure that any legislation passed by this body is not weakened. The safety of American children and our families and our kids are at stake. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment. This is not a road, a bridge, a helicopter, or anything else. This is people's lives. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this bill. What does this bill do? It would force the Office of Management and Budget to issue an across-the-board budget cut for defense spending come January. Why? Because the House appropriations bills exceed the defense budget spending cap by more than $72 billion. I might add that both Democrats and Republicans voted for these spending caps for defense spending and for nondefense spending. So the defense funding in the bill, their numbers are, in essence, fake. These are fake numbers. Republicans have no plan to raise both our need to support our national security and military readiness and our need to support hardworking middle class families who are struggling to get by. So if these bills are enacted, the only way to avoid this across-the- board defense spending cut is if we had another budget deal to revise the bipartisan Budget Control Act, which established spending caps for defense spending and for nondefense spending. Now, add to that, since military pay is usually exempt from budget cuts, if this bill and the other House appropriations bills are signed into law, the Office of Management and Budget, by law, would be required to cut defense spending by more than 13 percent, or $72 billion. We would need a new budget agreement so that we can increase both defense spending and nondefense spending to meet the needs of our country. My friends, this is not going to happen; hardly likely. The biggest economic challenge of our time is that too many people are in jobs that do not pay them enough to live on. We must invest in programs that provide opportunities for hardworking Americans to be able to improve themselves and for our economy to grow. We need a country that works for the middle class and for the vulnerable, not just the wealthy and those with the most lobbyists. This budget process is irresponsible, and our military and our hardworking families will all be shortchanged. This is unacceptable. Congress needs to negotiate another budget deal that increases both the defense and the nondefense spending caps. The spending levels in the Defense bill are impossible to achieve unless there is a new budget deal and it is reached. So, again, the numbers are fake. If you vote ``yes'' on this, you are voting for a pig in a poke. I urge my colleagues to vote against this bill.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation. It is very simple. It directs the Comptroller General of the United States to submit a report to the Congress on alternative uses for Plum Island. The report underscores its ecological significance, that is what it would do; the need to be protected; and it would be an important step toward identifying conservation alternatives to selling Plum Island. I believe that Plum Island should be a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System, ensuring that we would safeguard the island's sensitive wildlife and ecological value. Plum Island is the largest area in southern New England, where seals can rest on dry land. Its 843 acres are home to two threatened bird species: the piping plovers and the roseate terns. We need to proceed very carefully when considering the future of Plum Island. This is a refuge for wildlife and native plants, and once it is developed, it cannot be restored, which is why the legislation is so important. By evaluating the alternative uses for Plum Island fully rather than selling it to the highest bidder, we can ensure that this ecological, historical, and cultural treasure can be protected for generations to come. I am proud to join with my colleagues, Congressman Zeldin and Congressman Courtney, on a bipartisan basis to ensure that the environment is respected in our region and across the country. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I thank the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Payne) for yielding me the time.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and so I missed rollcall vote No. 325 regarding ``On Ordering the Previous Question'' (H. Res. 382). Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' I missed rollcall vote No. 326 regarding ``Providing for consideration of H.R. 1215'' (H. Res. 382). Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' I missed rollcall vote No. 327 ``On Approving the Journal.'' Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today and join the many gathered this evening to pay tribute to an outstanding leader in the women's rights movement and my good friend, Marcia D. Greenberger, as she steps down as co-president of the National Women's Law Center. Marcia has dedicated a lifetime to moving the agenda of women's rights forward and has left an indelible mark on our nation. In 1972, at a time when the United States looked very different for women and women's issues were still considered ``fringe issues,'' Marcia, along with the incomparable Nancy Duff Campbell, founded the National Women's Law Center, an organization that has become an invaluable resource in the fight for women's rights across the country. The NWLC is responsible for marking critical advances to improve the lives of women for more than 40 years, ensuring that the health and civil rights of women are kept at the forefront of public policy debate and lawmaking. Simply put, the strides we have made would not have been possible without the tireless advocacy of the National Women's Law Center. In virtually every single battle for women's rights that we have fought over the last four decades, Marcia has led the fight to break down the economic, health, and social barriers facing women and girls. The impact of their work resonates across the country--it is felt in every state where the National Women's Law Center has advanced opportunities and improved the lives of women and girls. The New York Times said Marcia ``guided the battles of the women's rights movement'' and they were right. She was the first full-time women's rights legal advocate in Washington and her legacy includes the passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, and critical protection against sexual harassment on the job. Marcia's leadership and contributions are reflected in the myriad of honors, accolades and commendations she has received and the numerous boards on which she has served throughout her career. She received a Presidential appointment to the National Skill Standards Board, and currently serves as a member of the Executive Committee of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. Marcia was named by Working Woman Magazine as one of the 25 heroines whose activities over 25 years have helped women in the workplace, by Washingtonian Magazine as one of Washington, D.C.'s most powerful women, and by Legal Times as a ``Top Lawyer'' and one of its ``30 Champions.'' Marcia has been inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame, was the recipient of the American Bar Association Section of Civil Rights and Social Justice's 2016 Civil Rights Hero Award, the Trustees' Council of Penn Women ``Beacon'' Leadership Award, the American Bar Association Margaret Brent Award, and the National Association of Women Lawyers' Arabella Babb Mansfield Award just to name a few. I consider myself fortunate to have had so many opportunities to work with and learn from Marcia and I am honored to call her my friend. Her unwavering commitment and personal passion will always serve as an inspiration, not only to myself but for countless others. While her stepping down as co-president is bittersweet, I have no doubt that Marcia will continue to find ways to make a difference. Trailblazer, advocate, mentor, and friend--for all of her good work and invaluable contributions, I am pleased to rise today to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to Marcia D. Greenberger. I thank her for all she has done for women in this country. I wish her all the best for health, happiness, and success in everything that comes next.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to join the many who have gathered in paying tribute to an outstanding leader in the women's movement and my good friend, Nancy Duff Campbell as she steps down as co-president of the National Women's Law Center. Duffy, as she is affectionately known, has dedicated a lifetime to moving the agenda of women's rights forward and has left an indelible mark on our nation. In 1972, at a time when the United States looked very different for women and women's issues were still considered ``fringe issues,'' Duffy, along with the incomparable Marcia Greenberger, founded the National Women's Law Center, an organization that has become an invaluable resource in the fight for women's rights across the country. The NWLC is responsible for marking critical advances to improve the lives of women for more than 40 years, ensuring that the health and civil rights of women are kept at the forefront of public policy debate and lawmaking. Simply put, the strides we have made would not have been possible without the tireless advocacy of the National Women's Law Center. A recognized expert on women's law and public policy issues for over forty-five years, Duffy has been a driving force in the development and implementation of key legislative initiatives and litigation protecting women's rights, particularly on issues affecting low-income women and their families. Her expertise on women's law and public policy issues knows no equal and her focus on issues affecting low-income women brought their stories into the public eye where they belonged. She was behind successful litigation protecting benefits for unemployed mothers, the right to child support, and the expansion of the rights of military women facing myriad issues from sexual harassment to the ability to serve in combat. Duffy's leadership and vision have been recognized with a myriad of awards and accolades over the course of her career. She was named by Working Woman magazine as one of the top 25 heroines whose actions over the last 25 years have advanced Women in the workplace, a Woman of Genius by Trinity Washington University, and the 2010 Woman Lawyer of the Year by the District of Columbia Women's Bar Association. She received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for her ``efforts on behalf of America's children,'' and was appointed by Congress to the U.S. Commission on Child and Family Welfare, to study and make recommendations on a range of issues. She was the sole North American representative to the 2009 United Nations Conference on the Implications for Women of the Global Financial Crisis and in 2010 was appointed by the Secretary of Defense to the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services. These are just a sample of the recognitions she has received--the legacy she leaves is extraordinary. I consider myself fortunate to have had so many opportunities to work with and learn from Duffy and I am honored to call her my friend. Her unwavering commitment and personal passion will always serve as an inspiration, not only to myself but for countless others. While her stepping down as co-president is bittersweet, I have no doubt that Duffy will continue to find ways to make a difference. Trailblazer, advocate, mentor, and friend--for all of her good work and invaluable contributions, I am pleased to rise today to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to Nancy Duff Campbell. I thank her for all she has done for women in this country. I wish her all the best for health, happiness, and success in everything that comes next.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect and admiration that I rise today to join family, friends, colleagues and community leaders in extending my deepest thanks and appreciation to Dr. Dorsey L. Kendrick as she celebrates her retirement as President of Gateway Community College in New Haven, Connecticut. Over the course of her nearly two decades of leadership, Dorsey has both literally and figuratively changed the face of Gateway, leaving an indelible mark on the college and our community. Dorsey's unique personal story is the core of her personal passion for education and creating opportunity for students. A native of Jackson, Tennessee, Dorsey was one of three African-American students-- and the only woman--to initiate integration at Union University. After earning a Bachelor's of Science degree in business administration at Union, she went on to earn an M.S. in Business Administration at Cardinal Stritch University and a Ph.D. in Philosophy in Higher Education from Walden University. She is also a graduate of the Institute of Education Management at Harvard University. Prior to appointment at Gateway, Dorsey was the first African-American woman to be named associate dean and then dean of the School of Business Management at Milwaukee Area Technical College. She later became the school's executive vice-president and the highest-ranking African- American woman in Wisconsin's higher education system. The legacy Dorsey leaves at Gateway Community College is nothing short of awe-inspiring. In her first eight years at the helm. The school's enrollment more than doubled and today Gateway is the largest of Connecticut's twelve community colleges, serving more than 12,000 undergraduates every year. Dorsey not only created a nursing program but under her leadership the college has bolstered program offerings in the fields of allied health, green technologies, the culinary arts, early childhood education, and business. She was one of the first to recognize the importance of working with local industries to develop curriculum and certificate programs that would ensure students are prepared for the needs of the local job market. Perhaps her crowning achievement has been the creation the Gateway's new campus in Downtown New Haven. The four-story, LEED Gold-certified complex opened in August 2012 and is home to extraordinary classrooms and state-of-the-art labs, creating a learning environment that is second to none. During her tenure, I have had many opportunities to work with Dorsey and found a kindred spirit in the effort to expand access to higher education, enable students to realize their full potential, and make their dreams a reality. From creating partnerships with local industries to prepare students for the jobs of today to providing resources to local veterans, and from addressing a nursing shortage to preparing students for a changing manufacturing sector, it has been my honor to work side by side with her. I cannot thank her enough for her friendship and counsel over the years. At her inauguration Dorsey stated ``I plan to leave my footprints on this college''--she has done that and so much more. She has created lasting partnerships on which Gateway Community College can build future success. Her advocacy and dedication has ensured that the doors of opportunity are open for Gateway's students, and her innovative vision has created a campus ready to prepare a 21st century workforce. Though her retirement marks the end of an era, I have no doubt that Dorsey will continue to find ways to make a difference in our community. It is my great honor to rise today to thank Dr. Dorsey L. Kendrick for her outstanding leadership and invaluable contributions to our community as well as extend my very best wishes to her for many more years of health and happiness as she begins this next chapter of her life.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today and join my Connecticut colleagues, John Larson, Joe Courtney, Jim Himes, and Elizabeth Esty, in extending our deepest thanks and sincere appreciation to Rudy Brown, who, after a thirty-one year career with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, will be retiring later this year. As the government liaison for EPA's Region 1 office, each of us has had the opportunity to work with Rudy on a variety of projects over the years and owe him a great debt of gratitude for all of his good work. In our roles as Members of Congress, we and our staffs deal with a number of federal agencies while working on behalf of our constituents and yet it is rare to find someone like Rudy. His dedication and commitment to his work and helping to fulfill the mission of the EPA are second to none. He has met every challenge with a willingness to roll-up his sleeves and see what could be done, and always with a smile. In a career that has spanned over three decades, and with responsibilities to the six New-England States that make up EPA's Region 1, Rudy has spent countless hours ensuring that Congressional members and their staffs had the information and background they needed to address issues of concern to their residents. From large Superfund projects and issues concerning the Long Island Sound, to cornfields redevelopment and grant announcements, we and our staffs have always known that we could count on Rudy's guidance and have never doubted that he would provide us with the best possible information, even if it was not necessarily what we were hoping to hear--that is an invaluable resource when it comes to constituent service. As he comes up on his retirement, we stand together to say thank you to Rudy Brown--thank you for your thirty-one years of federal service, thank you for your unwavering commitment, and thank you for making the time to ensure that we have been able to serve our constituents in the best possible way. We have no doubt that his wife and daughters are looking forward to spending more time with him and wish him all the best for many more years of health and happiness as he enjoys this next chapter of his life.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to join family, friends, and colleagues in paying tribute to Louis S. D'Antonio as he marks his retirement after more than three decades with Gateway Community College. A native of New Haven, Lou has dedicated a lifetime of service to our community. Following his graduation from New Haven public schools, Lou earned both his bachelor and master's degrees at Fairfield University. I had the good fortune to get to know Lou when we worked together for Community Progress Inc., an anti-poverty agency focused on education and employment. From his earliest days, Lou understood the critical connection between education and the workforce. Prior to joining Gateway, Lou also held positions with the New Haven Office of Manpower and the New Haven Employment and Training Administration. Lou began his career with Gateway Community College, known then as South Central Community College, in 1981 as the Director of Community Services and Continuing Education. He soon became Associate Dean of Community Affairs and in 1989 was appointed to his current position as Dean of Administrative Affairs. In this capacity, Lou was responsible for the oversight of a myriad of administrative and financial support services including facilities, maintenance and event management, financial affairs, information technology, institutional research as well as safety and security. At its core, Lou ensured that the campus was prepared to meet the demands of faculty, students, and the community. Lou's contributions to Gateway have been innumerable. His brought a unique perspective to various college committees including the health and safety committee as well as the NEASC committee. He represented the college as a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce and the Personnel and Finance Committee of Workforce Alliance. And in what has been the singularly most transformative measure for Gateway, Lou headed up the Building Committee for its new downtown campus which opened in 2015. The development of this state-of-the-art campus has ensured that Gateway Community College is ready to help prepare its students for the 21st century workforce today and for decades to come. Today, as he celebrates his retirement after a distinguished career, I am honored to have this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks and heartfelt congratulations to Louis S. D'Antonio for all of his good work on behalf of Gateway Community College and the City of New Haven. I wish Lou and his wife, Adrienne, as well as their five children, Robert, Daniel, Lisa, Amy and Lisa; and their seven grandchildren the very best for many more years of health and happiness as they enjoy this next chapter.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with my sincere thanks and heartfelt congratulations that I rise today to join staff, faculty, students, board members, and alumnae in paying tribute to Dr. Antoinette ``Toni'' Iadarola, President of Lauralton Hall, as she marks her retirement from an auspicious career in education and administration. Toni's leadership and vision over the course of her tenure as President has ensured that Lauralton Hall will continue to meet its mission of empowering young women for life. Toni earned her bachelor's degree in history and political science at St. Joseph College, her master's and doctoral degrees in European diplomatic history from Georgetown University, and post-doctoral grants for studies at Yale and Fordham Universities. A former Fulbright scholar associated with Oxford University, Toni held an impressive list of academic and administrative posts before coming to Lauralton Hall; Chair of the History Department and Coordinator of Women Studies at Saint Joseph College in Connecticut, Dean of Faculty at the College of Mt. St. Joseph in Ohio, and Provost at Colby-Sawyer in New Hampshire, and 16 years as President and Professor of History of Cabrini College. Toni's background extends far beyond academia. Her passion for community service led to her participation as a volunteer consultant on several projects funded by the State Department: working with women NGOs in Belarus, discussing privatization issues in higher education in Russia, Kazachstan and Kyrkystan. She was also invited to the United Nations to serve on the Commission for Disarmament Education, Conflict Resolution and Peace, an NGO established by the International Association of University Presidents, presenting on behalf of the Commission in South Africa, Australia, and Thailand. Toni has also done volunteer work in orphanages in Swaziland and Guyana. It was this awe-inspiring world of experiences that she brought with her as she took the helm at Lauralton Hall in 2009 and that she has shared with faculty, staff, and students. Over the course of her eight- year tenure as President, she has focused her attention on modernizing the campus, which has not only met the needs of today's educators and students, but has made Lauralton Hall more competitive as a whole. The creation of an Internet Cafe, a Center for Guidance and College Planning, the addition of an athletic practice field, classroom renovations to accommodate today's technologies, and the conversion of the carriage barn for the music program are just some of the projects that have been started or completed under her guiding hand. Toni has given Lauralton Hall a solid foundation on which to continue its success in preparing young women for their future success. I would be remiss if I did not extend a special note of thanks to Toni for her friendship over the years. Lauralton Hall holds a special place in my heart--some of my fondest memories are of my time there. It has been an honor and privilege to work with Toni to build on the school's 108-year history and the incredible impact it has had on the young women who have matriculated there. As an alumnus of Lauralton Hall and as a friend, I am honored to stand today to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Antoinette Iadarola for her outstanding contributions as President of Lauralton Hall. She leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire staff, faculty, students, and alumnae alike. I wish her all the best for many more years of health and happiness as she enjoys her retirement.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join colleagues, family, and friends in paying tribute to Lisa M. Maatz for her outstanding leadership and invaluable contributions as Vice President of Government Relations and Advocacy at the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Though she has decided to move forward to other opportunities, she has left an indelible mark on this organization and all of those who have been fortunate enough to have worked with her. For fifteen years, Lisa has served in multiple leadership capacities at AAUW and remained a tireless advocate for women and girls. As the organization's top policy adviser she has faithfully worked to advance and protect the interests of women and families across the nation. During her tenure she dedicated much of her work to advocating for the economic and retirement security of women and families. Among her many accomplishments, she is most notably remembered for her instrumental role in the successful passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. Lisa's strengths for developing and directing public policy and grassroots advocacy have resulted in her the successful leadership of several coalitions working to advance opportunities for women and girls, including the National Coalition for Women and Girls in Education (NCWGE) and the Equal Pay Coalition. In addition to leading the Public Policy and Government Relations department, Lisa spent eighteen months serving concurrently as the interim director of the AAUW Legal Advocacy Fund. A highly sought-after speaker, having made numerous presentations on the national stage, and a principal spokesperson for women's issues in Washington and across the nation, Lisa is a trailblazer by any definition. Her creative and strategic approaches to legislation and advocacy at all levels coupled with her equally talented ability to implement and mobilize grassroots strategies have earned her the respect and admiration of co-workers, peers, and legislators alike. Lisa's reputation in public service precedes her. Her grassroots advocacy career began when she was Executive Director of Turning Point, a battered women's program recognized for excellence by the Ohio Supreme Court. Since then, she has worked on behalf of such organizations as the NOW Legal Defense and Education Fund and the Older Women's League, and served as a legislative aide to U.S. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. She was recently featured in the book ``Secrets of Powerful Women'', is a contributor to ``Love Her, Love her Not: The Hillary Paradox'' and recently served on the boards for the Women's Information Network (Win) as well as on the Public Leadership Education Network (PLEN) where she mentored the next generation of young women activists. Lisa's work has been recognized by countless distinctions including the 2013 National Committee on Pay Equity's Winn Newman Advocacy Award, the 2012 National Association of Partnerships in Equity's first-ever Public Policy Advocate for Equity Award, and the U.S. Women's Chamber of Commerce's 10th anniversary Trailblazer Award. Her achievements reflect her extraordinary career in advancing gender equity and her unwavering commitment to social justice. I would be remiss if I did not take a moment to extend a personal note of thanks to Lisa for the work that she has done with me and my staff. Lisa has been a sister-in-arms on my work with the Paycheck Fairness Act, not only making ``Equal Pay for Equal Work'' a priority for the AAUW, but also bringing it to the forefront of state and national public policy debates. She has been an extraordinary resource and I cannot thank her enough for the vision and counsel she has provided over the years. Lisa M. Maatz has dedicated her life to supporting women and girls through advocacy, education, and philanthropy. Her service and leadership in this capacity is nothing less than exceptional. As she continues her legacy, I am honored to stand today and thank her for the incredible work she has done in the service of all women and girls and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I rise today to join the many family, friends, colleagues, and community leaders who have gathered to pay tribute to one of our community's most ardent and passionate advocates, Alexandra ``Sandy'' Breslin, who lost her battle with cancer just days ago. Sandy was an extraordinary woman, whose compassion, dedication, and commitment to public service touched the lives of many and helped to shape the very character of our great state. Sandy was many things to many people--advocate, activist, mentor, and most importantly, friend. I first met Sandy as a newly elected Member of Congress when she sought me out to talk about the need to preserve and protect the Long Island Sound and the invaluable habitats along its shores. Few have had a larger impact on the preservation and protection of the Long Island Sound than Sandy. She worked with me and others to secure millions of dollars in federal funding to support conservation efforts up and down the Sound's coast and was instrumental in the passage of the Long Island Sound Stewardship Act. She also served as the Connecticut Co-Chair of the Citizens Advisory Committee of the national estuary program for Long Island Sound where she fought for horseshoe crab sanctuaries that protected this ancient creature and helped establish standards for harvesting menhaden that set the stage for the return of whales to the Sound. Sandy's passionate activism helped to make real many land conservation projects including such local environmental jewels as Kelda, the former Griswold Airport, Long Beach West, The Preserve, and Suffield and Barn Island Wildlife Management Areas; and to expand the Stewart B. McKinney the Silvio 0. Conte National Wildlife Refuges. Her outstanding contributions have been recognized with three national awards including a U.S. Department of the Interior Environmental Achievement Award; a Teaming with Wildlife Member Achievement Award for establishing a Connecticut Conservation License Plate; and a Coastal America Award for conservation teamwork at Long Beach West. In addition to her environmental work, Sandy was also a dedicated advocate for the Town of Bethany, Connecticut. She served as a member of the Inland Wetlands Commission for more than two decades, she worked to renew State funding that resulted in creation of a municipal open space and watershed matching grants program that helped protect Clover Nook Farm, Veteran's Memorial Park and Monument Stables and for more than a decade she served as Bethany's representative on the Regional Policy Board of the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority, and on its Land Use Committee. Sandy was also a dedicated member of Connecticut's Democratic Party. She served as the Democratic Town Chair of Bethany for many years and it was under her leadership that the first Democrat in nearly a century was elected First Selectman. In neighboring Woodbridge, she was a driving force behind the election of the first woman to serve as First Selectman in the town's history. Her contributions to local and state politics earned her the respect and admiration of many across the state. Sandy was a great friend to me and several members of my staff. There was not a time when we could not call her for advice, information, and council. There was not an environmental event in the state that she did not attend--and she likely had a hand in its organization as well. Even under the most frustrating of circumstances, she was there with a smile, ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work. Sandy was the best--an embodiment of everything we strive to be as advocates for others. Like so many others, I consider myself fortunate to have called her my friend. Sandy leaves behind her mother, Ruth, as well as scores of family, friends, and colleagues whose lives were touched by her good work. I am proud to stand today and take this opportunity to pay tribute to her lifetime of public service, to thank her for her invaluable contributions, and to honor her lasting memory. Alexandra ``Sandy'' Breslin has left an indelible mark on the State of Connecticut, the Town of Bethany, and in the hearts of all of those fortunate enough to have known and worked with her. Though her presence will be deeply missed, hers is a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of activists and advocates to come.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleagues, Peter A. DeFazio, Debbie Dingell, Keith Ellison, Marcy Kaptur, Barbara Lee, Sander M. Levin, James P. McGovern, Bill Pascrell Jr., Mark Pocan, and Robert C. ``Bobby'' Scott. It is our honor to join the many family, friends, and colleagues in extending our deepest thanks and appreciation to Thea Mei Lee, as she marks her retirement as Deputy Chief of Staff at the AFL-CIO. Over the past twenty years, Thea has made an indelible impact on the AFL-CIO, fighting for trade and economic policies for working families that would promote shared prosperity and sustainable growth. Thea began working for the AFL-CIO in March 1997 as the Assistant Director for the Trade Task Force, and was subsequently promoted to the positions of Director of Public Policy, Chief International Economist and Deputy Chief of Staff. Thea led the fight against harmful trade agreements and policies negotiated in a manner damaging to working people's interests, including the North American Free Trade agreement, the Central American Free Trade Agreement, Permanent Normal Trade Relations with China, the World Trade Organization; the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement, the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement, the U.S.-China BIT, and many others. Her work was instrumental to the defeat of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas, and the Multilateral Investment Agreement--harmful trade agreements that would have advanced profits over people and the planet. She has testified on behalf of America's working people before both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. And, she has contributed valued work to the conversation around fair trade, including co-authoring A Field Guide to the Global Economy. She has often made the case for a fair and inclusive economy-- eloquently and passionately on the PBS News Hour, CNN, Good Morning America, and NPR's All Things Considered among others. In 2013, she was named a ``Top Lobbyist'' by The Hill. Thea has fought to ensure that all workers around the globe are treated with dignity and afforded fundamental labor rights as recognized by the International Labor Organization. And, she has mobilized workers, helping turn out thousands of working people to protest unjust WTO polices at ``The Battle in Seattle.'' The AFL-CIO sets a national standard in the fight for working Americans, in large part because of Thea's work. She has left her mark on this outstanding organization and a legacy that will continue to inspire others to ensure that fair trade benefits working Americans. Her career should encourage all elected officials to continue to focus on building a better, stronger, more inclusive economy for all the people of the United States. We are honored to stand today to extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Thea Lee for her outstanding leadership and good work, as well as our very best wishes for many more years of health and happiness as she enjoys her retirement.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of myself, and my colleagues Peter A. DeFazio, Debbie Dingell, Marcy Kaptur, Barbara Lee, Sander M. Levin, James P. McGovern, Bill Pascrell Jr., Mark Pocan, and Robert C. ``Bobby'' Scott. It is our honor to rise today to join the many family, friends, and colleagues in extending our deepest thanks and appreciation to Thea Mei Lee, as she marks her retirement as Deputy Chief of Staff at the AFL-CIO. Over the past twenty years, Thea has made an indelible impact on the AFL-CIO, fighting for trade and economic policies for working families that would promote shared prosperity and sustainable growth. Thea began working for the AFL-CIO in March 1997 as the Assistant Director for the Trade Task Force, and was subsequently promoted to the positions of Director of Public Policy, Chief International Economist and Deputy Chief of Staff. Thea led the fight against harmful trade agreements and policies negotiated in a manner damaging to working people's interests, including the North American Free Trade agreement, the Central American Free Trade Agreement, Permanent Normal Trade Relations with China, the World Trade Organization; the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement, the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement, the U.S.-China BIT, and many others. Her work was instrumental to the defeat of the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the Free Trade Agreement of the Americas, and the Multilateral Investment Agreement--harmful trade agreements that would have advanced profits over people and the planet. She has testified on behalf of America's working people before both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. And, she has contributed valued work to the conversation around fair trade, including co-authoring A Field Guide the Global Economy. She has often made the case for a fair and inclusive economy-- eloquently and passionately on the PBS News Hour, CNN, Good Morning America, and NPR's All Things Considered among others. In 2013, she was named a ``Top Lobbyist'' by The Hill. Thea has fought to ensure that all workers around the globe are treated with dignity and afforded fundamental labor rights as recognized by the International Labor Organization. And, she has mobilized workers, helping turn out thousands of working people to protest unjust WTO polices at ``The Battle in Seattle.'' The AFL-CIO sets a national standard in the fight for working Americans, in large part because of Thea's work. She has left her mark on this outstanding organization and a legacy that will continue to inspire others to ensure that fair trade benefits working Americans. Her career should encourage all elected officials to continue to focus on building a better, stronger, more inclusive economy for all the people of the United States. We are honored to stand today to extend our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Thea Lee for her outstanding leadership and good work as well as our very best wishes for many more years of health and happiness as she enjoys her retirement.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 268 (Probation Officer Protection Act of 2017), I inadvertently voted Yea. My intention was to vote Nay

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with respect and admiration that I rise today to join all of those gathered in extending my sincere thanks and appreciation to Lieutenant Paul Vance as he celebrates his retirement after forty-three years of dedicated service to the Connecticut State Police force. His retirement marks the end of a distinguished career in law enforcement and the Connecticut State Police will simply not be the same without him. Lieutenant Vance entered the Connecticut State Police Training Academy as a member of the 85th Training Troop in July of 1974. Following his graduation later that year, he embarked on a career that earned him a respected reputation amongst colleagues and civilians alike. Serving in a variety of posts, including Troop L in Litchfield and as a Resident State Trooper in Prospect, Lieutenant Vance rose through the ranks and is perhaps best known for his leadership as a member of the Connecticut State Police force's Public Information Office. In a position he held for nearly one third of his career, Lieutenant Vance became, for many in Connecticut, the public face of our State Police. As a Public Information Officer, it was he who so often brought a sense of calm and order to very difficult circumstances. That composure was put to the ultimate test as he guided a grieving state and stunned nation through the aftermath of tragedy at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in December of 2012. I hold a deep respect for the men and women who dedicate their professional careers to law enforcement--facing situations and circumstances that few of us can even imagine. Lieutenant Vance is a reflection of the very best of our law enforcement community. Over the course of his career, his commitment and leadership has made all the difference and we owe him a debt of gratitude that can never fully be paid. Lieutenant--though it does not seem enough, thank you for all of your good work on our behalf. You leave a legacy of service that will most certainly serve as an inspiration to others for years to come. Lieutenant Paul Vance has led a remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on the Connecticut State Police force as well as the State of Connecticut. Today, it is my great privilege to stand and join his wife, Meg, their three children and six grandchildren, as well as family, friends, and colleagues in wishing him the very best for many more years of health and happiness in this next chapter of his life.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall Vote No. 268 on H.R. 1039, I mistakenly recorded my vote as ``yea'' when I should have voted ``No.''

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, the Republican healthcare bill is reckless and heartless: It increases the cost of premiums and deductibles; It imposes an age tax on older Americans; It unravels protections for patients with preexisting conditions; It eliminates maternity care, substance abuse treatment, and prescription drug coverage; It does away with lifetime limits and annual caps. President Trump's claim that people with preexisting conditions will be covered is false, and it is a betrayal. It will have threatening consequences for millions of Americans. It will cost lives. If this passes today, the American people should be in the street to call out the immorality of this legislation. They should decry this offense against humanity and this offense against the American people. I call on the American people: Do not let them get away with it.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 254.

Ms. DeLAURO

Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, the omnibus funding bill for 2017 makes important investments in health, education, and jobs programs, and rejects many of the damaging ideological riders that marked an earlier version of the Committee on Appropriations this year. At a time when the administration is seeking massive cuts to programs that affect people's lives, this bill is more than respectable. It is a success. In fact, in some cases, we were able to increase funding. The bill provides an additional $2 billion for the National Institutes of Health. It ensures that critical lifesaving research can continue at our Nation's top research institution. Given that President Trump wants to cut in the 2018 budget $6 billion, and he wanted an additional $1.2 billion from 2017, this is a victory. The bill finally restores year-round Pell eligibility, which helps to make college more affordable for hardworking students. Nontraditional students are most in need of this flexibility offered by year-round Pell. It helps them to graduate on time and with less debt. There is an additional $3 million for senior nutrition programs and Meals on Wheels, extending our commitment to the health and the safety of our seniors. It invests in programs that help people to get the skills they need to earn higher wages and better jobs, including an increase of $15 million for Job Corps, $5 million for apprenticeships. I believe we ought to have more funding for apprenticeships. There are no more investments as important as the ones we make for our children. This bill provides an additional $25 million for afterschool programs; $100 million for title I; $90 million for special education State grants; $95 million increase for the Child Care and Development Block Grant, desperately needed aid to working parents for safe and reliable child care; $85 million for Head Start and makes an early investment in the long-term health of our Nation's children. This is the direction we should be moving: increasing funding for the priorities that touch people's lives. This omnibus ignores shortsighted cuts that have been proposed by the Trump administration and, instead, makes important investments in health, in education, and in jobs programs. I urge my colleagues to vote for it.