Charles Dent

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Chair, as the designee of the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Frelinghuysen), I move to strike the last word.

Mr. DENT. Mr. Chair, this legislation also contains $65 million, as requested, as VA switches gears and moves from modernizing its own aging electronic health record to acquiring the record DOD is using. The bill continues to include language restricting most of the funding until the VA meets milestones and certifies interoperability to meet statutory requirements. Our bill increases the request for VA research funding by $58 million, to a total of $698 million, recognizing strong congressional interest in the VA's research to combat devastating conditions like PTSD and traumatic brain injury. In major construction, we continue oversight of those projects, holding back funding until it has contracted for outside management. In closing, I ask Members to support this important piece of legislation. It is very important to our servicemembers, our veterans, and their families.

Mr. DENT. Mr. Chairman, pursuant to section 3 of House Resolution 473, as the designee of the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Frelinghuysen), I offer amendments en bloc.

Mr. DENT. Mr. Chairman, the Appropriations Act before you today includes, in division C, appropriations for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies for Fiscal Year 2018. Division C is exactly the same as the MILCON-VA bill reported favorably out of the full committee on June 15. Thanks to the leadership of Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen from New Jersey, Ranking Member Nita Lowey from New York, and the partnership of Ranking Member Debbie Wasserman Schultz from Florida, this will provide necessary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs and military construction projects. We were able to include the vast majority of the subcommittee's over 1,000 Member requests. This division demonstrates our firm commitment to fully supporting our Nation's veterans and servicemembers. The total investment is $89 billion for Military Construction, VA, and Related Agencies, which is $6 billion above last year's level. This division provides comprehensive support for servicemembers, military families, and veterans. We must make infrastructure investments if we value readiness. This bill increases military construction by 25 percent over last year's level, delivering on our promise to the troops in line with the President's focus on national defense. It supports our troops with the facilities and services necessary to maintain readiness and morale at bases here in the States and overseas. It provides for Defense Department schools and health clinics that take care of our military families. This division funds our veteran healthcare systems to ensure that our promise to care for those who have sacrificed in defense of this great Nation continues as those men and women return home. We owe this to our veterans, and we are committed to sustained oversight so that programs deliver what they promise and taxpayers are well-served by the investments we make. The staff deserves credit for the sustained work and very long hours. I would like to recognize Sue Quantius, Sarah Young, Tracey Russell, Maureen Holohan, and Matt Washington on the committee staff, and Sean Snyder on my personal staff. On the military construction piece, this division provides a total of $10.2 billion for military construction projects and family housing, including base and overseas contingency operations funding, an increase over last year's level and $197 million below the President's request. This funding meets DOD's most critical needs, including priority projects for the combatant commanders and funding new mission requirements. It provide $737 million for military medical facilities. It provides $249 million for Department of Defense education facilities for construction of renovation of four schools. It supports our Guard and Reserves through $575 million for facilities in 22 States. It also funds military family housing at $1.4 billion. It provides $178 million for the NATO Security Investment Program, which is $24 million over the President's request, to deal with increasing threats and necessary investments overseas. Given all that is happening by Russia's very bad behavior in Eastern Europe and elsewhere, this investment is absolutely essential. We were able to also include an additional $439 million in the services' unfunded priorities, which are priority projects that were not included in the budget request. It is very important to many Members of this body. On Veterans Affairs, the legislation includes a total of $78.3 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. That is a $3.9 billion increase, or 5 percent, above fiscal year 2017 level. It is the highest level of VA funding ever provided. On VA medical care, the bill funds it at $69 billion, the full request, including an additional $2.6 billion beyond the advanced appropriations to cover unanticipated needs. Many Members expressed concerns about medical care issues, and were able to fully fund the budget request for mental health services at $8.4 billion; suicide prevention outreach at $186 million; homeless veterans treatment, services, housing, and job training at $7.3 billion; opioid abuse prevention at $50 million--we began that in the omnibus last year-- rural health initiatives at $250 million; and caregiver stipends at $604 million. We repeat last year's bill language regarding improved standards for the suicide prevention hotline. For disability claims processing, again another issue very important to so many Members in this body, but particularly to our veterans who are seeking services from the VA, or benefits, we provide $2.9 billion, which is $50 million over the request. As the number of disability applications increases, we need to be vigilant to be sure that the claims backlog doesn't reappear.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on the historical and cultural impact immigrants have had--and continue to have--on our great nation, as we recognize Immigrant Heritage Month this June. Throughout its history, America has shone as a beacon of opportunity to millions of people seeking refuge from prejudice, political instability, or extreme hardship in their homeland. Our willingness to welcome those escaping persecution and seeking economic opportunity has only fortified our strength as a country, and it will continue to do so. The United States is ripe with opportunity for fiscal and personal prosperity, both of which have appealed to those who have arrived on our shores looking for a new life for themselves and their families. The resulting mixture of ethnicities and cultures has only served to embolden the unique American way of life and experience. The foundation of our nation is built on immigrants, and as the descendant of German, English, and Irish immigrants, I am thankful for a chance to reflect on the importance of immigration to this country's historical narrative.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my great appreciation for a tremendous service that has been rendered to the Congress by Andrew Loeb Shoenig in his capacity as International Programs Director of the Congressional Study Groups. As you are aware, the Congressional Study Groups are the premier international projects administered by the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress, and they are the most active and substantive bipartisan exchange involving the U.S. Congress and legislative branches of another country. Mr. Shoenig has been an integral part of the Study Group's outstanding success for almost six years. He worked tirelessly to enable Members to have a productive and fruitful dialogue with colleagues in the legislatures of Germany, Japan, Turkey, and the E.U. His effective leadership has resulted in the creation of a network of colleagues who have an avenue of discourse, so that the many important international issues that affect our constituencies can be addressed in a constructive and positive manner. In addition to expressing the appreciation of my colleagues in Congress, I wish to add that on a personal note, it has been a great pleasure working with Andy over the past six years during my chairmanship of the Congressional Study Group on Germany. He is an exceptional professional who has delivered to Members an incredibly valuable and effective service. He is leaving Washington to earn his Master's Degree in Public Administration at the University of North Carolina, and we wish him much success as he pursues this new opportunity.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, today I have the privilege of recognizing the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor as it becomes an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. Earlier this year, the heritage corridor completed a five year merger process with the National Canal Museum. As a result of this merger, the Canal Museum's Smithsonian Affiliate status will transfer to the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, also known as the D&L Corridor, is part of our nation's National Heritage Area system. The corridor spans 165 miles from the mountains of northeast Pennsylvania through the Lehigh Valley, and it preserves and showcases the cultural resources that are an integral part of this region's history. As part of its efforts, the D&L Corridor has developed a curriculum offered to 4th and 5th grade students in the area, titled ``Tales of the Towpath,'' which provides them with the opportunity to explore mid-19th Century life along the Lehigh and Delaware canals. By merging with the National Canal Museum, the D&L Corridor is able to utilize the museum's artifacts and exhibits--including Pennsylvania's only mule-drawn canal boat--to bring its curriculum to life. In addition to the National Canal Museum, the D&L Corridor also includes other important sites such as the National Museum of Industrial History, Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites, Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle, and numerous other National Historic Landmarks. For these reasons, the D&L Corridor has achieved a Smithsonian-National Heritage Area Partnership, which is the first of its kind in the United States. The D&L Corridor has worked tirelessly to preserve and promote the rich history and culture of our beloved region in Pennsylvania, and I am proud that it now has even greater resources to share with those who visit. I wish them the utmost success as they pursue this endeavor.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to point out that this legislation, in addition to this robust increase for medical research, the chairman also provided substantial support for early childhood, a priority to him and to many of us. And there are other areas, too. Pell grants made some great changes, too--year-round Pell grants for so many students who are struggling with college affordability. I also want to point out, too, on border security, a downpayment has been made here as well. This legislation provides $1.5 billion additionally for border security. This will help us move closer to establishing greater operational control of our border, which is something I think we all agree needs to be done. These are just a few of the provisions of this legislation beyond what I am responsible for--military construction and VA--that are worthy. I would urge support of this bill. I would also like to point out that we did pass the Military Construction and VA Appropriations bill back in September on time. It is the first appropriations bill passed on time since 2009. I want to take a little credit for that. But these other 11 bills that have been discussed here today need our support. We need to keep this government running. We have done it in a very thoughtful, bipartisan, measured way, and we have been very responsible. This bill needs to get to the President's desk immediately. Again, I urge support for this legislation, and I support the rule as well.

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I am here today to rise in strong support of this rule and the underlying legislation, which is the product of a lot of effort on the part of a lot of people on a very bipartisan basis. I would first like to thank and congratulate our distinguished chair and ranking members for their work on the 2017 Consolidated Appropriations Act and for their leadership in bringing this legislation forward today to address a number of timely issues facing our Nation. I certainly want to thank the gentleman, Mr. Cole, to my immediate left for his strong work on the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies bill, which I will mention at some point here as well, but his leadership has been extraordinary on this issue. I would like to draw special attention to some of this legislation's provisions that will further support our veterans and enhance our military's readiness. Division L of the underlying bill provides supplemental funding to augment the appropriations that were provided to MILCON and the VA accounts, military construction and the VA accounts, last September. Specifically, this bill will allow us to further address the opioid epidemic that has escalated within so many communities across the country and affected individuals and families from a broad range of backgrounds and professions. The 2017 bill will provide $50 million in additional current-year funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs to improve opioid and substance abuse prevention and treatment for veterans. Those funds will allow the VA to achieve full implementation of their responsibilities under title IX of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act of 2016. I just raised this issue less than an hour ago with VA Secretary David Shulkin in this morning's hearing. He stressed the importance of these funds to stay ahead of this challenge and provide comprehensive treatments to our veterans. It is my hope that the lessons learned from this public health crisis will be remembered so that we can prevent similar episodes from occurring in the future. In addition, the FY17 Consolidated Appropriations Act will support readiness and infrastructure improvements and facilitate future force structure growth by providing all our military services with the full amount requested for military construction efforts. Mr. Speaker, I agree with so many of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle that we need to make investments in our military readiness. I would like to stress that the investments in the infrastructure and military construction programs that support our troops at home and abroad are critical aspects of our overall readiness posture. This bill will move us in the right direction by addressing needs for both our Active-Duty and our National Guard and Reserve forces. I would also like to talk about some other aspects of this legislation, too, in the underlying bill. Many pressing needs are addressed here. Specifically, we are talking about a very significant pay increase, a 2.1 percent pay increase for our troops. It is the largest pay increase in 6 years. This legislation makes a substantial downpayment on our efforts, and the Trump administration's efforts, to enhance and increase military spending to address the various threats that we are seeing throughout the world. I just returned from South Korea and Okinawa, Japan, and we have many challenges in Northeast Asia, that I won't go into here today. But we all know that we have some real obligations, particularly for our United States Navy. I also wanted to mention, too, my good friend, Chairman Cole. He led the effort, along with Senator Roy Blunt, to increase funding for medical research, critical lifesaving medical research to the National Institutes of Health by $2 billion in this legislation, taking the funding level from $32 billion to $34 billion. And that is on top of what we heard in fiscal year 2016, which took us up $2 billion, as well, from $30 billion to $32 billion. So the commitment of this side of the aisle to medical research, I think, is strong, and we are backing it up with our dollars. We had to set some priorities, and Chairman Cole did that in the labor health bill. He set those priorities, and we said: This is one of them. I am proud that we as Republicans are stepping up on medical research. I am also pleased, too, that many of our Democratic friends are supporting this in this effort as well.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Edward J. Donley, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Ed was a dear friend and mentor to me. After 95 years of life, many of which were spent as a prominent figurehead in the Lehigh Valley's business community and as an impassioned advocate for early-childhood education, he passed away in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on April 1, 2017. As a testament to Ed's legacy, his son John wrote a tribute to him, a portion of which I summarized and would like to include in the Record today: Ed Donley was born in Detroit on November 26, 1921. During the Depression, his family moved back to their farm near Richmond, Michigan. After graduating from high school, Donley won a scholarship to Lawrence Institute of Technology (now Lawrence Technological University) in Detroit and earned an engineering degree in 1943. Shortly before graduating, Donley was hired by a new industrial gas company, Air Products, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to design portable oxygen generators for Allied bombers in World War II. Donley met his future wife in Chattanooga: Ms. Inez Cantrell. They wed on October 24, 1946 and were happily married for 66 years until Inez passed away in 2013 from Alzheimer's disease. The couple had three children--Martha, Tom, and John, ten grandchildren, and a growing bevy of great-grandchildren. Air Products relocated to the Lehigh Valley in 1949, and Donley became Vice President of Sales in 1957, President and Chief Operating Officer in 1966, Chief Executive Officer (1973-86), and Chairman of the Board (1978-86). During his time at Air Products, he was especially proud of his commitment to promoting employee safety, recruiting top students each year, and creating long-term shareholder value. In the Lehigh Valley, Donley led many local projects. In the 1960s and 70s, he was a trustee of Cedar Crest College, the Allentown Art Museum, and WLVT public television. He and his wife Inez gave their time and financial support to Community Services for Children, the Allentown Library, KidsPeace, Lehigh Carbon Community College, and the Da Vinci Science Center. Additionally, Donley served on many business and non-profit boards, including a stint as director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for 11 years. He was active in the health care industry as well, helping to create the predecessor of the Lehigh Valley Health Network in the 1970s and working with the Rotary Club to found Lehigh Valley Hospice, Inc. in 1980--just the second hospice in the U.S. at that time. Similarly, Donley held a great passion for early-childhood education. In addition to leading education initiatives, he and his wife gave most of their assets to The Donley Foundation, a trust now run by their children and grandchildren, which supports the work of literacy and early-childhood education groups. While philanthropy and a strong business acumen served as catalysts for many of Ed's lifetime endeavors, his commitment to his wife, his children, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren will ultimately be how he is remembered. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the House please join me in celebrating a giant of a man and a life well lived, as well as expressing sympathy to his family and our community, both of which have been made better by his outstanding life and legacy. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I have the privilege of recognizing Calvary Temple in Allentown, Pennsylvania on the occasion of its 100th anniversary. During the last century, Calvary Temple has served as a place of spiritual enlightenment and refuge to the City of Allentown and the surrounding Lehigh Valley. Calvary Temple began in 1917 as an informal gathering of 12 believers who met in one another's houses to pray for the salvation of close friends and family members. Led by layman Edwin C. Conrad from the 12th Street Baptist Church of Allentown, the group devoted itself to building a new meeting space that could accommodate their growing attendance numbers. By 1922, a ground-breaking was held for the new building, and the group officially deemed their organization the Pentecostal Prayer Band--Assembly of God. The church wasted no time in establishing ministries, both locally and internationally. Sister Mary Lindberg became the church's representative in India, establishing missionary outreach, which continues to this day. In Allentown, the church began to work with the elderly and inmates at the Lehigh County Prison. Additionally, baptismal services for new members were held at Jordan Park in the nearby river. In the following decades, despite initial hardships, the church continued to devise creative ways of ministering to the surrounding community, including radio and television broadcasts, an annual summer camp, and eventually, Allentown Christian School. Finally, after a number of name changes, the church adopted the name Calvary Temple, and ultimately decided to withdraw from the Assemblies of God in order to become a self-governing, non-denominational body of believers. Today, Calvary Temple remains a beacon of innovation and community service in its current location. In addition to its four Sunday services, the church hosts small group ministries across the Lehigh Valley throughout the week, and they remain a dedicated and hospitable presence in Allentown. It is with the utmost respect and appreciation that I ask the House to join me in offering well wishes and congratulations to the men and women of Calvary Temple. May the next century bring about continued congregational growth and meaningful outreach to the Lehigh Valley.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Moravian College on the occasion of its 275th Anniversary. Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Moravian's roots go all the way back to May 1742, when it began as a girls' school founded by Countess Benigna von Zinzendorf, who was only 16 years-old at the time. Motivated by her religious roots in the Moravian denomination, Countess Benigna accompanied her father, Count Nicholas von Zinzendorf, on a visit to the Moravian settlements in the New World. The intent was to use education as an instrument of salvation for the surrounding community of Bethlehem, which was established one year prior. Zinzendorf's school became the first girls' boarding school in America. Eventually, it would come to be known as the Bethlehem Female Seminary, and in 1913, it became the Moravian Seminary and College for Women. The school developed such a distinguished reputation that in its early years, George Washington personally petitioned the headmaster for the admission of two of his great-nieces while he served his second term as President. In 1954, the women's institution joined with the men's institution, Moravian College and Theological Seminary, which was comprised of boys' schools from Bethlehem and Nazareth, to form the singular Moravian College. Moravian Theological Seminary maintained a close, but distinct identity as a graduate school of theology. The merger made Moravian College the first coeducational institution of higher learning in the Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Today, Moravian College remains committed to its mission of preparing individuals for a ``reflective life, fulfilling careers, and transforming leadership in a world of change.'' The school offers more than 50 programs of study, and over 2,000 students make up its undergraduate and graduate student population. It is my pleasure to congratulate the students, alumni, faculty, and staff of Moravian College as they celebrate this very special 275th Anniversary. May they enjoy continued success in edifying and serving the Lehigh Valley and all those who look to carry on its proud tradition.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I have the privilege of bringing to the attention of the House Grace Episcopal Church of Allentown, Pennsylvania as it celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. Since its earliest days, the Lehigh Valley has been home to a large population of German Americans who established Lutheran and Reformed congregations throughout the region. With the advent of iron-making, however, many British workers began migrating to Allentown, bringing their Episcopalian roots with them. To placate their increasing desire for a church, Rev. Azariah Prior was sent to Allentown where he led Episcopalian services in the Lehigh County Courthouse for three years. During that time, the first commercially successful anthracite coal- powered iron furnace was created in the community now known as Catasauqua in 1840. Additional workers were needed, and many from Britain joined their fellow countrymen and women in the Lehigh Valley. Further north, in Mauch Chunk, Asa Packer--the renowned railroad tycoon, Congressman, and founder of Lehigh University--requested membership to the Presbyterian Church, but was purportedly rejected due to his unwillingness to sign a temperance pledge. The father of Packer's chief advisor, William Sayre, encouraged him to become Episcopalian. Packer agreed, and the operational headquarters of his Lehigh Valley Railroad in South Bethlehem became a gathering point for other Episcopalians. Finally, in 1865, the construction of Grace Episcopal Church began on a lot at the northwest corner of Linden and 5th Street. Today, the Church serves as a bastion of support to the surrounding community through its ministry and its pre-school through elementary, as well as GED, educational programs. It continues to provide a spiritual and physical comfort to the surrounding areas in the Lehigh Valley. I ask the House to join me in offering congratulations to Grace Episcopal's congregation, and I wish them another 150 years of continued community outreach and spiritual edification.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral and the occasion of their centennial celebration. In 1916, Greek immigrants arriving to the Lehigh Valley integrated themselves into the fabric of American life through employment in many industries, including Bethlehem Steel and other local businesses. At the same time, these early immigrants recognized a need to preserve their religion, language, and customs. Accordingly, they purchased the former St. Joseph's Episcopal Church in Bethlehem and established their own church. By the 1930s, their community was growing, and families began to settle permanently in the area. While World War II disrupted the lives of many families within the congregation, its young members returned home upon its resolution to enter the workforce in professions such as teachers, engineers, doctors, lawyers, or within their family businesses. Due to this successful growth, the community realized that it would need a larger place of worship to accommodate their expanding families. In 1962, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral moved to its new location at 1607 West Union Boulevard in Bethlehem where it remains to this day. With this move, the congregation also constructed a new school and auditorium. Continued growth through the 1990s necessitated the hiring of a second full time priest to meet the needs of their members. Today, St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral continues to embrace the surrounding community through Greek food festivals, picnics, and other exciting events. As St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral reflects upon its impressive accomplishments of the last century, I wish them all the best as they look forward to serving their community in the years to come.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kutztown University on the occasion of its 150th Anniversary. Throughout the past year, Kutztown has celebrated its sesquicentennial, culminating with Founders' Day on 15 September 2016. In 1866, the residents of Berks County found a need for school teachers while the nation as a whole recovered from the Civil War and sought to prepare itself for a new era. Residents solved their shortage by establishing the Keystone State Normal School. Over time, advancing industries and professions required students to be trained more broadly, with education covering a diverse range of studies. In order to rise to the occasion, the school grew in size and sophistication, eventually changing its name to Kutztown State Teacher's College in 1928, and later becoming Kutztown State College in 1960. Today, Kutztown, which achieved university status in 1983, is comprised of four colleges, including Business, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Performing Arts. The university enrolls approximately 9,000 students from forty states and nations. In addition to providing an outstanding education, Kutztown also offers students the opportunity to participate in vibrant cultural and social events and to compete in athletics at the varsity, club, and intramural levels. It is my honor to congratulate the students, staff, faculty, and over 72,500 Kutztown Alumni as they celebrate their 150th Anniversary. May they enjoy continued success in educating the minds of our future leaders and integral members of society.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, the continuing resolution before you includes, in Division A, the full-year appropriations for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies for fiscal year 2017. Division A is exactly the same as the MILCON-VA conference report that was approved by the House on June 23. Thanks to the leadership of Chairman Rogers; Mrs. Lowey, the ranking member, and the partnership of the subcommittee ranking member, Sanford Bishop, the gentleman from Georgia, this conference report was negotiated with the Senate and will provide necessary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs and military construction projects. This conference report demonstrates our firm commitment to fully supporting our Nation's veterans and servicemembers and their families. The total investment is $82.5 billion for Military Construction, VA, and Related Agencies--$2.6 billion over last year's level. This bill provides comprehensive support for servicemembers, military families, and veterans. It supports our troops with the facilities and services necessary to maintain readiness and morale at bases here in the States and, of course, overseas. It provides for Defense Department schools and health clinics that take care of our military families. The bill funds our veteran healthcare systems to ensure that our promise to care for those who have sacrificed in defense of this great Nation continues as those men and women return home. We owe this to our veterans and are committed to sustained oversight so that programs deliver what they promise and taxpayers are well served by the investments we make. On the military construction side, the bill provides a total of $7.9 billion for military construction projects and family housing, including base and overseas contingency operations, OCO, funding--an increase of $282 million over the President's request. This funding meets DOD's most critical needs, including priority projects for the combatant commanders and funding new mission requirements. It provides $304 million for military medical facilities. It provides $246 million for Defense Department education facilities, for construction or renovation of four schools. It supports our Guard and Reserve through $673 million for facilities in 21 States. It funds military family housing at $1.3 billion. It provides $178 million for the NATO Security Investment Program, which is $43 million over last year's level, to deal with the increasing threats and necessary investments overseas. On the VA side, the legislation includes a total of $74.4 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs. That is $2.9 billion above the fiscal year 2016. VA medical services, the bill funds VA medical services at $58.8 billion. Many Members expressed concerns about medical services, and we were able to fully fund the budget request for hepatitis C at $1.5 billion--and I believe that is about 70,000 veterans who will be treated for hepatitis C--veteran homelessness at $1.6 billion, long- term care at $8.6 billion, Office of the Inspector General at $160 million, and caregiver stipends at $735 million, $10 million over the request. For disability claims, we provide $30 million over the request for the Veterans Benefits Administration, which is a $148 million increase over fiscal year 2016, and the full request for the Board of Veterans' Appeals, which is about a $46 million increase. The bill will enhance transparency and accountability at the VA through further oversight and an increase for the VA Office of Inspector General's independent audits and investigations. The legislation also contains $260 million for the modernization of the VA electronic health record and includes language restricting the funding until the VA meets milestones and certifies interoperability to meet statutory requirements. This, of course, is a major priority for the committee. I know the chairman and the ranking member have spoken at length about the integrated health record, and we have to get this done. Major construction--we continue to focus on major construction oversight and maintain strict requirements, including holding back 100 percent of the funding for the largest construction projects until VA meets our requirements. We include bill language requiring improved standards for the suicide hotline and certification of mental health therapists to expand access for veterans who need their care. We include major new whistleblower protections for VA employees to avoid retribution for the employees. In closing, this is a very solid, bipartisan bill that is focused on the needs of servicemembers, veterans, and all their families. We are $2.6 billion--$2.6 billion with a B--over the fiscal year 2016 level; more than a 3 percent increase. We have provided for our military and veterans to the very best level we can in a manner that is fiscally responsible within the constraints of the Budget Act we adopted last year. We are going to do a lot of good with this bill. It is fair, it is balanced, and it is generous. On behalf of our servicemembers, military families, and veterans, I urge support of this legislation. Let's take care of those who sacrificed so much for our country. I urge support of the resolution with an ``aye'' vote. Once again, I thank the chair, the ranking member, and Mr. Bishop for all their support of this legislation.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Chairman Upton; Ranking Member Pallone; Messrs. Guthrie, Katko, and Himes; Eleanor Holmes Norton; and Congressman Jolly, all for helping to bring this bipartisan bill up today in order to officially identify these dangerous synthetic substances and address the public health crisis presented by their continued proliferation throughout the country. I have been working for several years to bring attention to the very serious threat that synthetic drugs pose to the health and safety of communities both within Pennsylvania and across our Nation. Although initially successful after placing a number of synthetic cannabinoids on schedule I and enhancing the DEA's authorities to protect the public from these drugs through legislation that was signed into law in 2012, we have begun to see a renewed rise in both the number of new substances on the streets and the number of victims affected by these products. This bill simply adds 22 compounds to schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, and these are, frankly, the very worst of the worst compounds out there. The products targeted by this bill are primarily labeled as synthetic marijuana, bath salts, or synthetic opioids, which are sold under the labels like K2, Spice, and Flakka that allow them to be marketed to unsuspecting young people and some of the most vulnerable members of our society. Through modifications to the chemical formulas of these drugs, their overseas manufacturers have been able to continue to push them on to victims under the false impression that they are safe, despite often being even more potent than the drugs they are designed to mimic. Without action--like the step we are taking here today to pass this critical bill and designate these substances as the dangerous and abusive products that they are--we will continue to see more overdoses, more victims, and, sadly, more deaths. Just this month, there was a gruesome killing in my district that was fueled by the ingestion of the synthetic drug known as Flakka-- absolutely gruesome. My friend, Congressman Himes, can talk about a situation very close to him, too, where there was a tragedy. Unfortunately, data from our health centers, law enforcement entities, and poison control offices show that such cases have become more and more prevalent around the country, and I applaud this proactive action to stop further proliferation. I should note that when we passed a law in 2012, we did shut down so much of these synthetic drugs that were being sold. We shut it down. But these folks overseas have figured out ways to reformulate these compounds, and this problem is back with us today again. We had shut it down. It is back with us, and this is a step that we are taking. So, again, I would also like to thank all of these bipartisan cosponsors for their partnership in this effort and their commitment to work together to address this public health epidemic by getting these dangerous substances off the streets. Finally, I would like to mention one other thing, too--that this bill has gone through an extensive regular order process. There has been a hearing, subcommittee markup, and a full committee markup. The bill is the result of negotiations between the DEA, researchers, and many others. Organizations like the American Hospital Association, the American College of Emergency Room Physicians, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Convenience Stores, and Former Special Agents of the FBI all support and endorse this bill. So, finally, I urge my colleagues to support passage of this important legislation today so we can save lives. I will continue my efforts to educate the public about the dangers of these synthetic drugs and to protect our communities.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to join with my colleague from Pennsylvania, Representative Ryan Costello, to recognize the 70th Anniversary of East Penn Manufacturing, a family-owned business located in Lyons, Pennsylvania that exemplifies the American spirit of hard work and ingenuity. As veterans returned home at the end of World War II, they were looking for reliable and affordable car batteries. DeLight Breidegam Jr., an Air Force veteran, and his father, DeLight Sr., responded to the growing demand for batteries in 1946 by starting a business to collect and rebuild old batteries. The following year, in 1947, Karl Gasche joined the Breidegams and was named the company's Vice President. Gasche was an engineering graduate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and as modern materials became more available after the war, he designed a line of new batteries for the company. This line, which was named ``Deka,'' is now one of the best known battery lines in America. East Penn has shown an exemplary commitment to environmental stewardship during the past seven decades. That commitment has been ingrained in the company's identity and operations since day one through an extremely successful battery-recycling initiative. Today, East Penn recycles approximately 30,000 batteries per day. Furthermore, East Penn is making advances in emerging technologies, such as hybrid electric vehicles and smart grid services, which help to conserve energy and protect our environment. Since its inception 70 years ago, East Penn has grown to become one of the world's leading battery manufacturers with more than 8,000 employees and 450 product designs. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to offer our congratulations to the talented and hard-working employees at East Penn Manufacturing, as well as the entire Breidegam family, as they celebrate 70 years of success and innovation in the Berks County area and beyond. May they enjoy continued prosperity.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I have the distinct privilege and honor to recognize the 125th Anniversary of Royalton Borough, located in the southern portion of Dauphin County in Pennsylvania. The history of Royalton is extensive and substantial, dating back to several native groups that called the area home, including the Susquehannocks, Conoys, Nanticokes, Conestogas, and the Shawnees. Both Captain John Smith and William Penn explored the area surrounding the Susquehanna River. In 1608, Penn deemed the area to be so impressive that he proposed a city that would eclipse Philadelphia. Unfortunately, the shallow water of the river would prove to be a deterrent from Penn's grandiose plans; however, Port Royal--which would officially be deemed Royalton in September 1891--served as an active and important trading post. The Pennsylvania Canal would open to public use in 1834, running through Lower Royalton. The canal's opening provided a new transportation option and facilitated trade by providing a route from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, carrying goods such as anthracite coal, salt, and iron. When transportation preferences shifted to rail travel, Royalton also evolved and a large number of residents either worked for the railroad or its associated industries. Throughout their history, Royalton's residents have consistently demonstrated an unsurpassed resilience and commitment to strengthening and evolving their community together. Today, the borough continues to be made up of hard-working people with a heart for their neighbors and their community. I ask that the House join me in celebrating with Royalton Borough on the joyous occasion of its 125th Anniversary.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, as Chairman of the Committee on Ethics, and along with my colleague, Representative Linda Sanchez, the Ranking Member of the Committee on Ethics, we rise today so that we may recognize the long and dedicated service of Mattie Joanne White to the House of Representatives. Joanne is retiring from the Ethics Committee this year, after more than 25 years of service to the Committee, and over 41 years of service to the House of Representatives. Joanne started her service with the Committee as a Staff Assistant, and through hard work and dedication, she rose to become the Committee's Administrative Staff Director. The Committee on Ethics is the only standing committee of the House whose membership is evenly divided between each political party. The Committee includes five members of each party. Also, unlike other committees, the day-to-day work of the Committee on Ethics is conducted by a staff that is nonpartisan by rule. Throughout that time, Joanne has been the model of the Committee's non-partisan, professional staff. We congratulate Joanne on the completion of an exemplary career in public service. We will miss her knowledge and leadership, but we know that she will remain our friend.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to bring to the House's attention the 250th Anniversary of St. Michael's Church, which has served as a place of spiritual refuge, communal gathering, and a historical landmark for the surrounding community of Tilden Township, Pennsylvania. Located at 529 St. Michael's Road in Tilden Township, St. Michael's Church was originally organized in February 1766, although services were still held in houses and barns. It would be another three years before the congregation would have a physical building donated by Philip Jacob Michael, the namesake of the Church. Michael would leave the Church in May 1777 to be a chaplain in the first battalion under Col. Michael Lindenmuth--one of the original elders of the Church-- during the Revolutionary War. As the need for a larger meeting space grew along with the congregation, a decision was made to move the Church to the present-day site in 1810. Two centuries later, St. Michael's continues to thrive with a robust congregation that carries on a long tradition of engaging with the community through ministry, fellowship, and service. My heartfelt congratulations are extended to the members of St. Michael's Church on this 250th Anniversary. I am confident that I speak on behalf of the community when I thank them for their efforts on behalf of the people of Tilden Township and Berks County as a whole. I ask the House to join me in offering well wishes and congratulations to the men and women of Tilden Township's St. Michael's Church. May the next 250 years continue to see congregational growth and meaningful outreach to the surrounding communities.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a very special and remarkable civil servant on the occasion of his retirement. After forty-one years of service to the Nation, Mr. Garry Sauner will complete a most distinguished career as a financial manager and congressional liaison for the United States Air Force. For the past sixteen years, Mr. Sauner served as the Deputy Director and Chief of the Budget and Research Branch of the Air Force Office of Appropriations Liaison. In this role, Mr. Sauner has acted as the Air Force's principal liaison to this subcommittee. From personal experience, I can state that his tireless efforts, wise counsel, and attention to detail led to the successful completion of hundreds of hearings, thousands of questions for the record, and countless requests for information which all helped our subcommittee make the best informed resourcing decisions. Mr. Sauner led engagement efforts for senior Air Force leadership in defense of the Air Force budget request for military construction, housing, environment, and BRAC. Hundreds of Air Force officers, enlisted, civilians, and contractors have benefitted from his experience and counsel as a strong and capable mentor, resulting in a bond of trust between this subcommittee and the Air Force that will have lasting positive effects well into the future. Prior to his dedicated service in his current role, Mr. Sauner served twenty-five years in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. With his four years as a Congressional Liaison Officer on active duty, Mr. Sauner can claim twenty years of experience working with the Congress--a rare feat indeed. Mr. Sauner leaves a lasting legacy both in the Executive and Legislative Branches of our government as a result of his quiet professionalism and embodiment of the Air Force core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the House please join me in extending our most sincere thanks for his service and best wishes for the days and years ahead as he begins a new journey.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Chairman, I want to concur with the comments of my colleagues Mr. Thompson and Mr. Barletta in opposition to this amendment. I work closely with our friends in Germany. I am chair of the Congressional Study Group on Germany. I also have been very close and meet with many leaders from Kaiserslautern. They are very pleased with the arrangement that we have had with their community for a very long time. In fact, I met with their leaders, their municipal utility, and we have had these conversations. But what they have said is true. We might as well call this the ``Buy Russian'' amendment. Buy from Russia because if you are going to replace anthracite from the United States, there is really only one place you are going to get that. It is in Russia or perhaps in maybe some Russian-dominated areas of Ukraine right now. That is it. If this energy is not sourced in the U.S., it will be sourced in Russia. As has been stated, Russia uses energy as a weapon against the West, particularly against our European allies. Why we would be unwitting allies with Vladimir Putin on this little dustup on Kaiserslautern is beyond me. For all these reasons, I say oppose this amendment, buy American- sourced energy, and reject this buy Russian amendment.

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the National Association of Colleges and Employers--NACE--on its 60th anniversary of service to, leadership of, and advocacy for the community of college career services professionals and HR/recruiting professionals who are focused on the employment of the college educated. Located in Bethlehem, PA, NACE boasts more than 10,000 members across the country who perform work vital to our national labor force and national interests. Founded in 1956, NACE supports the critical work of its members through research, advocacy, and professional development and serves the greater public by providing key data and insight to further the goals and dreams of those who choose higher education as their path to a rewarding and successful career. NACE's initiatives expand beyond its membership to also serve the larger national community and help our graduates achieve successful outcomes. To that end, NACE has undertaken efforts to ensure new college graduates can transition into the job market with the competencies they need to succeed and to keep our nation competitive in the global marketplace. As NACE continues to look to the future and address critical issues facing our labor force, employment community, and country, I congratulate NACE on this 60th anniversary and wish it continued growth and prosperity in the years ahead

Mr. DENT

Mr. DENT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. He is obviously a very thoughtful member of the Committee on Rules and a fine member of our Committee on Appropriations. I believe we have something really important to discuss today, and that is that today really does mark a return to regular order for our appropriations bills and process. That statement is so significant that we need to pause and recognize it as a tremendous achievement. This has been the intense focus of Appropriations Committee Chairman Hal Rogers for more than 5 years. And the committee's esteemed ranking member, too, Mrs. Lowey, has been equally determined to have regular order restored. They have worked relentlessly to get us to this place, which is, in fact, a better place. So I commend Chairman Rogers and Mrs. Lowey and appreciate the support of the House leadership to make this happen. This is the best way to serve our citizens, our Federal agencies, our veterans, our military services, and the members and their families. It is also my honor to have the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill move forward as part of the conference committee. That is very significant to me as chairman of that subcommittee. Of course, we are also going to deal with the Zika threat as we must and as we should, and that will be part of these discussions. I am sure we are going to be able to come to an agreement with the Senate just on how we will proceed on that very important issue, and I think everybody here is committed to moving forward both on the MILCON piece of this as well as Zika. H.R. 4974--and that is the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies bill--demonstrates our firm commitment to fully supporting our Nation's veterans and servicemembers. Our investment of $81.6 billion for Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, at $1.8 billion over last year's level, is unprecedented. The bill will address issues to help veterans in every part of the country, every congressional district, and our troops throughout the world. The bill provides comprehensive support for servicemembers, military families, and veterans with $7.9 billion. It supports our troops with facilities and services necessary to maintain readiness and morale at bases here in the States and, again, overseas. It provides for the Department of Defense schools and health clinics that take care of our military families. For the VA, this bill includes $73.5 billion in discretionary funding. The bill funds our veterans healthcare systems to ensure that our promise to care for those who sacrificed in defense of this great Nation continues as those men and women return home. We owe this support to our veterans and we are committed to sustained oversight so that programs deliver what they promise and taxpayers are well served by the investments that we make. So I certainly support this motion to go to conference. I certainly urge adoption of this motion so we can deal with taking care of our servicemembers, our veterans, and their families. We must do this. Of course, we must also deal with the Zika threat that is affecting so many of us. I commend everybody involved in that issue.