Joe Donnelly

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I commend my friend and colleague from Maine who has been such an extraordinary leader on these issues. She is the chairwoman of our Aging Committee. We recently had a hearing on how we can do better on pricing for insulin diabetes products. She is tireless, and we are very grateful for her hard work.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I want to thank my colleague from Wisconsin for those heartfelt and inspiring remarks. It illustrates the problem--the problem I was talking about with my friend Randy, from Fort Wayne, who said: ``My entire career I was promised what I would earn from my pension.'' These are people who every day got up in the dark, worked all day, and went home in the dark so they could take care of their families, so they could meet their obligations. All of the businesses to which many of these teamster drivers delivered counted on those drivers to be there every day, on time in order to keep their business going, and they always kept their word. The coal miners from my State were promised by Harry Truman that this pension was a sacred obligation that would be kept, and they counted on President Truman's word and the word of everybody else after that. They kept the lights on in our country. They helped to make sure that we were able to win wars. They stood up every single day to fight for the red, white, and blue. All they ever asked is for us to keep our word. That is what we need to do. I am honored to have with us here today my colleague from North Dakota, who fights every single day for the people of her State. We are so blessed to have her with us right now.

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I want to thank my friend and colleague from North Dakota, who works nonstop for the people of her State. We often talk about making sure the things we do in the Senate reward hard work, that they stand up for hard work, that they are focused on making sure there is a fair deal for those, as I mentioned before, who go to work in the dark, who work all day and all evening, and who come home in the dark, and on making sure we keep our word in regard to pensions related to them--to the people who have worked 30, 40 years. My colleague from Michigan, Senator Peters, has always been at the forefront of making sure we keep our word, that we do what is right, and that we stand up for the working men and women of Michigan and our country. I yield to the Senator from Michigan.

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I thank my colleague from Michigan, who has so many teamster members who travel back and forth across our respective borders every day, who ride some of the most difficult and dangerous roads in the world, who, on a constant basis, are helping families who may be in trouble on the road, who are helping others whom they see along the way. They are not only professional drivers and other Teamster members; they are people who keep a sharp eye out for others in order to help them if they are in trouble. They keep an eye on every family who is out there on the road and on their fellow drivers. They make America go. So many auto parts from the Senator's State of Michigan come down to my State of Indiana. So many parts go from my State to his State of Michigan to create jobs, to make America go. We want to tell all of those workers: This is your capital. This is your government. We are the hired help. We work for you. It is our obligation to fix this because promises were made. President Harry Truman promised our mine workers that their pensions would be protected and that their healthcare would be protected. Those mine workers went down underground and powered our economy and powered our war efforts in World War II, in Korea, in Vietnam. They were there to ensure that when our men and women were overseas, they would have what they needed. Promises were made. It is our obligation to keep them for the Central States Pension Fund and for other pension programs. As I mentioned before, these are the people who go to work in the dark and come home in the dark, who drive our economy and who make our country the envy of the world. They don't come up with excuses. They make sure all of the other workers in our Nation have all of the goods they need to put cars together, to build planes--to drive our Nation forward, to continue to increase our productivity. That is what these men and women have done for 30, 40 years, and they have contributed to their pension plans. All they are asking is for a fair deal. It is our job--it is up to us--to make sure we keep that sacred bond, and that is what we will fight to do. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, yesterday, May 9, 2018, I was in Terre Haute, IN, to attend the funeral services for police officer, Rob Pitts, a veteran of the Terre Haute Police Department and a Hoosier hero who was killed in the line of duty while serving his community. As a result, I was unable to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted in support of the confirmation of Kurt Engelhardt to be United States Circuit Judge for the Fifth Circuit, and I would have opposed cloture on the nomination of Michael Brennan to be United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of Boone County Deputy Jacob Pickett of Zionsville, IN. His life was characterized by selflessness, dedication to his community, and a deep love for his family and faith. Jake graduated from Brownsburg High School in 2002. He graduated from the Marion County Sheriff's Office Training Academy in 2010 and the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 2014. He was employed as a detention deputy with the Marion County Sheriff's Office for 3 years. After serving the Marion County Sheriff's Office, he served as a deputy at the Tipton County Sheriff's Department from 2013 to 2015. In 2015, he began his work in Boone County as a taser instructor, K-9 team leader, and a member of the Fraternal Order of Police No. 110. From the start, his colleagues say they knew he would be a great officer and that he was the one who would be there to help if anyone ever needed him. Jake grew up with a kind heart, always standing up for those in need. He was described by Rev. Steve Reeves, his little league coach and pastor who baptized him as a teenager, as someone who ``had a kindness about him. He wanted to do well.'' His selflessness carried over into adulthood; whether it was serving in uniform, organizing a Christmas card drive, or volunteering to rescue animals, he continuously gave back to his community. Ultimately, Jake put his life on the line to protect the community he loves, and for his service, we are forever grateful. The morning that he was killed, he was greeting students at Perry- Worth Elementary with his sidekick K-9, a German Shepherd named Brik. Those who knew Jake best said his love for Brik was unwavering, and he extended that love to his family and those in the community he worked to protect. On Friday, March 2, 2018, Jake was fatally shot following a pursuit in Lebanon, IN. He was kept on life support for a few days, so that his life of service could continue through organ donation. After he was taken off life support, his heart was donated to a patient in need at St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. A devoted and loving father and husband, he is survived by his wife, Jennifer Pickett, a teacher at White Lick Elementary School; his two sons; parents Marlin and Rebecca Pickett; sister Kristi M. Woo; niece Hannah N. Woo; parents-in-law Jon and Carol Lindstrom; brothers-in-law Jeremy Lindstrom and Christopher Lindstrom; his faithful K-9 partner Brik; and many other relatives and friends. Jake went above and beyond for his children, and it was well known that the happiest day of his life was when he became a father. He was often seen giving his sons rides around the yard on the lawnmower for fun, and he will be remembered by his loving spirit. Jake set an example for others and will be remembered for his love for his family, his faith in God, and his bravery. Let us remember and emulate the example this man set for us and honor his commitment to serving his fellow citizens. (At the request of Mr. Schumer, the following statement was ordered to be printed in the Record.)

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you to the Senator from Wisconsin. I echo my support for this legislation. We worked together nonstop to get this accomplished, as has been mentioned. This passed the Senate 100 to nothing already. We are hopeful to wrap this up. The House just sent us a vote back, and we will continue to work nonstop to get this done because it is the right thing to do. I think of the McLinn family in my home State, and they are a representation of families all over the country struggling with the same challenges. Our job is to try to make their lives a little bit easier, a little bit better, so that all of the people who are struggling with Right to Try challenges can get a chance to live their life to the fullest and for a long time. So, the hour is late. I just want to second the efforts of my friend and colleague from Wisconsin, and we will continue to move forward.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I want to thank Chairman Crapo and my good friend from Kansas, whose statement is so similar to mine in many ways. In rural Indiana--you talked about relationship banking. That is, in many ways, the heartbeat of a community. Our small businesses, our farms that are handed down from generation to generation--you find the grandsons of our farmers dealing with the grandsons of the person who developed the bank. It is a privilege to be part of this. I thank the chairman of the Banking Committee, Senator Crapo, for leading this debate and for his good-faith efforts to make this a bipartisan process. As we debate the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, the Senate is on the verge of doing something significant. We are breaking through the gridlock on a bipartisan legislative package to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens on Main Street banks and credit unions, while also expanding protections for consumers, servicemembers, and veterans. This is an example of what we can achieve when we work together. I am proud to have worked closely with my friend the chairman, Senator Crapo, among others, to craft this bipartisan legislation that, as my friend Senator Tester mentioned--13 Republicans, 12 Democrats, 1 Independent. I have worked on this issue since I came to the Senate in 2013. This bill is the result of dozens of meetings, Banking Committee hearings, and a 7\1/2\-hour committee markup, where more than 100 amendments from both sides were filed, and 36 were considered and voted on. This bill is carefully written and narrowly tailored. This commonsense legislation is intended to help Main Street community banks and local credit unions to focus more on traditional banking--our small businesses, our farms, our families--while maintaining the safety and soundness of our financial system. In rural areas and in many towns across my beloved home State of Indiana, Main Street community banks and credit unions are the institutions that Hoosiers turn to--whether it is a family seeking a mortgage for their first home to make their dreams come true or an entrepreneur with a dream who is looking to start a small business, create more jobs, and make his or her community grow. Unfortunately, the 103 community banks and 154 credit unions in Indiana have been unintentionally burdened by rules and regulations that were intended to hold Wall Street accountable, to make sure they would never damage our economy again. Since 2008, the number of small business loans is down 41 percent nationally. That is according to our Federal banking regulators. This package includes a number of important new consumer protections as well, including for servicemembers, as I mentioned, for veterans, seniors, and tenants. One provision is based on my bipartisan Protecting Veterans Credit Act. It ensures that veterans are not wrongly penalized when the Department of Veterans Affairs is late in paying a vet's medical bills. In response to Equifax's massive data breach and other data breaches, for the first time, every American--let me repeat that--every American would be able to freeze and unfreeze their credit free of charge and set year-long fraud alerts. This bill also provides free credit monitoring for all Active-Duty servicemembers. This makes a big difference. It helps folks like Cpl Logan Hartz, a Hoosier, who serves proudly in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was training at Camp Lejeune when he learned his personal information may have been compromised by Equifax. He said it was really stressful to try to figure out what to do and challenging to get his credit frozen. Corporal Hartz says the free credit monitoring in this bill would provide peace of mind to servicemembers like him whose first focus is on protecting our country. I also want to highlight another provision I authored on manufactured housing, which serves as a vital source of affordable housing not only in Indiana but across our country, particularly in rural and underserved communities. This effort provides a narrow exemption to allow consumers to receive general financing information from a manufacturer, while creating new disclosures to prevent conflicts of interest and prohibiting retailers from directly advising consumers on financial transactions. This legislation has broad bipartisan support, it maintains strong financial oversight, and it adds new consumer protections. It is reasonable, it is balanced, and it is the result of very thoughtful negotiation and hard work. I am very hopeful it will pass the Senate soon. Again, I thank our chairman, Senator Crapo, for his bipartisan work, for his willingness to be flexible, to stay with it when it looked so difficult to get done. As a result, there are families who are going to be in homes for the first time from loans they were able to get from a banker who knew them in town, who, when every computer program showed something different, they knew the family was worth investing in. That is what this bill is going to do. I very much thank the chairman.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of U.S. Army 1LT Clayton R. Cullen of Bicknell, IN. Dedication to his country, loyalty to his fellow servicemembers, and a deep love for his family and faith defined Clay's life. Clay graduated from North Knox High School in 2011. During his time at North Knox, Clay excelled both in the classroom and on the soccer field. Clay was a member of the National Honor Society and served as student body president. He was also recognized as the most valuable player on the school's varsity soccer team, and a two-time Academic All-State player. Following graduation, Clay attended Indiana University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in history. Clay went on to join the Indiana University ROTC program, from which he graduated as a commissioned officer in 2015. He was described as ``the kind of guy who would always open his arms to you,'' according to Shawn Stachula, the executive officer of IU Army ROTC and fellow classmate. A dedicated friend, student, and leader, Clay was resilient, kind, caring, and a mentor to his peers. After graduation, he was a pilot with the rank of first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. In the Army, he was a member of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division in Fort Carson, CO. There he distinguished himself as a selfless soldier who always put the mission, his country, and fellow servicemembers before himself. For his service, he earned several commendations, including the Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Army Service Ribbon. On Saturday, January 20, 2018, Clay and Warrant Officer Kevin Burke, of California, tragically passed away when the AH64E Apache helicopter they were piloting crashed at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, CA. Unit Commander COL Scott Gallaway said that Clay ``left an indelible mark on the entire Iron Eagle team'' and that the lessons he taught his fellow servicemembers would resonate for years to come. Clay was a devoted patriot, son, and brother, who loved soccer, golf, kickball, reading, traveling, history, and trying new foods. Above all, he was a genuine and caring friend. Clay loved music and enjoyed attending concerts with friends, including Dave Matthews Band, Jimmy Buffett, and Zac Brown Band. Clay was selfless, brave, and passionate. He dedicated his life to serving others, whether it was through a mission trip to Sri Lanka or protecting his fellow Americans. Clay helped bring happiness to those he encountered and loved sharing his faith with others. He is survived and will be deeply missed by his parents, Robert and Julie Cullen; brother, Ian Cullen and Ian's wife, Katie; grandmother, Kathleen Curry Pack; aunt, Kay Mengedoht, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and his U.S. Army family. As Clay's brother said, ``He didn't want to be a hero. He just wanted to be Clay. Not `thank you for your service' Clay. Not `you're so brave' Clay. Just Clay. For all these reasons and so many more, he is a hero.'' Clay set an example for others and will be remembered for his dedication and love for his country. Let us emulate the shining example this brave man set for us and honor his commitment to serving his fellow citizens. May God welcome Clay home and give comfort to his family and friends.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Madam President, I rise today to discuss two important issues: keeping our government running and protecting an important tool in the fight against the opioid epidemic. I know how strong the Presiding Officer is on that as well. Today we face a deadline to fund the government. It is the most basic duty of Congress to keep our government running. I was elected by the people of Indiana to work every day on behalf of Hoosiers to do my job as a U.S. Senator. Keeping the government running is our job, and I will vote to keep the government open. I hope that Republicans and Democrats will join together to reach an agreement that avoids a shutdown. We still have that opportunity to prevent a shutdown. I stand ready to work with anyone. I share the frustration of many Hoosiers and Americans. We have been down this road before, but Congress does not need to follow that path again. As a potential shutdown looms, the President's opioid public health emergency declaration is on the verge of expiring. According to reports today, the administration is planning to cut the Office of National Drug Control Policy by 95 percent. Let me say that again. The President's opioid public health emergency declaration is on the verge of expiring, and according to reports today, the administration is planning to cut the Office of National Drug Control Policy by 95 percent. ONDCP coordinates Federal efforts to combat opioid abuse and heroin use, as well as drug trafficking in Indiana and across the country. In addition, ONDCP administers the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program, or HIDTA, which supports and enhances cooperation between Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking. It is a program that effectively brings together critical law enforcement partners in Indiana, and the reported cuts to ONDCP could upend the good progress that is being made. As we work to confront the opioid crisis, we should be investing in critical tools for Hoosier law enforcement and communities to combat drug abuse and trafficking. This is a crisis. It is not a time for the Federal Government to take critical tools for Hoosiers communities off the table. We should be doubling down on effective efforts. We must confront the opioid epidemic with all possible tools available and everyone working together to address this public health emergency. I yield back.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, my colleagues and I are on the Senate floor tonight on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Americans whose pensions are at serious risk. For generations, there has been an expectation in our country that if you worked hard and earned a pension, that pension would be there in retirement. Unfortunately, that promise is now in question. Due to corporate bankruptcies, the financial crisis, and underfunding, among other reasons, some of the largest pension funds in this country are at risk of insolvency, potentially leaving retirees with pennies on the dollar. I know firsthand the value of a pension. My late father-in-law was a teamster. His pension allowed him to help support his family and it provided him with the dignity of a decent retirement. Hundreds of thousands of Americans will go to sleep tonight uncertain about their financial security. I have met these retirees. I have stood with them at rallies. I have attended their meetings. Just 10 days ago, back home in Indiana, I joined roughly 300 teamsters, both active and retired, from all corners of Indiana. They met in Indianapolis to try to learn what the future would hold. They simply want the pensions they worked so hard for and spent so many hours laboring for--and that they earned. They simply want what was promised to them and what their hard work earned for them. Unless Congress acts soon, in Indiana alone, 22,000 teamsters and 2,700 mine workers are at risk of significant pension cuts. That is why I cosponsored the Butch Lewis Act and the American Miners Pension Act. These bipartisan bills would ensure retirees receive their pensions. Both bills create a loan program that extends the solvency of at-risk pension plans. I also continue to work with Senators in both parties to build support and to find a solution. Conversations need to turn into that solution before the pension shortfall grows even worse. If we don't act, the solution becomes more costly every day. The Department of Labor lists 144 multi-employer plans as being in critical or endangered status. The at-risk plans include ironworkers, roofers, machinists, fishermen, plumbers, bricklayers, and carpenters, among others. We need to shore up our pension system before the problem grows worse. The failure of these plans would not just devastate the impacted retirees, it could be economically damaging to impacted communities and could lead to the insolvency of the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation--the PBGC--which provides pension insurance. Last year, we similarly stood on this Senate floor together--not as Republicans, not as Democrats, but as Americans--to fight for health benefits for the retired mineworkers. We solved that issue. We reached a compromise by working together, Republicans and Democrats together, and passed a permanent solution that was signed into law. Let's do it again here. We have an opportunity to do the right thing--to ensure hundreds of thousands of Americans have the financial support they expected, that they worked nonstop for, and that they receive the pensions they earned. A solution is right here in our grasp. We have to get this done, and I urge the Senate to act immediately. I yield the floor.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, for the past decade, health policy, unfortunately, has proven to be one of the most bitterly partisan issues. It doesn't have to be this way. I want to take a few minutes to discuss some health-related issues that Congress left unfinished before the holidays: providing relief from the medical device tax, reauthorizing the Children's Health Insurance Program, funding for community health centers, and doing more to address the opioid crisis. Each has strong bipartisan support and could provide help to our constituents now. First, many of us, on both sides of the aisle, agree on the need to provide relief from the medical device tax, which went back into effect on January 1. The medical device tax is one of these issues that leaves most Hoosiers scratching their heads. First adopted as part of the Affordable Care Act, the device tax was one of the few issues Republicans and Democrats agreed needed to be fixed, and in 2015, with bipartisan support, President Obama enacted a 2-year suspension of the tax. The argument was really pretty simple. The medical device tax was making it harder for innovative companies to invest in the research and development of new technologies, and, in the process, we were stifling job creation. If there was a question as to whether this was the case, the last 2 years provided evidence. When we agreed to suspend the tax in 2016 and 2017, manufacturers used that additional money to hire new workers, invest in research and technologies, and continue producing innovative, lifesaving products in the United States. For example, Zimmer Biomet, headquartered in Warsaw, IN, my home State, used the money from the device tax suspension to invest in new innovation to improve musculoskeletal health across the world. They were also able to upgrade their manufacturing equipment and facilities. Perhaps more importantly, these investments not only supported existing jobs, but they also helped to create new jobs--new, good-paying jobs. Yet, despite this evidence, despite this strong bipartisan support for repeal, and despite a wide-ranging package of changes to the Tax Code becoming law in recent days, Congress has failed to address the medical device tax, which went back into place on January 1. As we again discuss the policy priorities that were left unaddressed in 2017, I strongly urge my colleagues to work with me to quickly and meaningfully address the medical device tax. This would allow these innovative companies to make the long-term investments that not only lead to life-changing technologies but support thousands of high-paying jobs across the country, including in my home State of Indiana. Another issue that has garnered bipartisan support is a healthcare program that covers millions of our children. We must reauthorize the Children's Health Insurance Program--also known as CHIP--that expired in September. I have long supported the CHIP program. It provides health coverage for millions of kids, including nearly 115,000 children from Indiana. I am not alone in my support for this program. The fact is, CHIP has had strong bipartisan support for the past 20 years, and Democrats and Republicans in both the Senate and the House have shown they support a 5-year reauthorization of the program. That gives States the certainty they need to plan their budgets and provide high-quality care to these children. Despite this shared commitment for the program and agreement on the need for a long-term reauthorization, we were only able to fund the program through March before Congress departed for the holidays. This short-term extension bought some time, but according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services--CMS--some States will start running out of money after January 19. This means families and States will very soon face the harmful consequences of congressional inaction. Just last week, the Congressional Budget Office said that funding the CHIP program for the next 5 years will cost significantly less than previous estimates. This program is vital to our families and vital to our children. We should reauthorize the CHIP program right away. Like the CHIP program, community health centers have enjoyed long bipartisan support for the high-quality care they provide to our families. Also, like CHIP, the funding for community health centers expired on September 30, leaving many health centers across Indiana worried about if they will have the resources they need to continue to serve Hoosiers. We have the ability to work together now to ensure that our community health centers can continue to provide cost-effective, high-quality healthcare to people all across the country. Finally, we have demonstrated a common desire to address the needs of the opioid and drug abuse crisis. It is a scourge. It took the lives of 63,000 people just in 2016--63,000 of our brothers and sisters, our husbands and wives, our sons and daughters. It is a heartbreak that is crushing the entire country. I welcomed President Trump's declaration of a public health emergency, and both Republican and Democratic Senators have highlighted the need for Congress to do even more to help those struggling with addiction. Like many other States, the opioid epidemic has been particularly devastating in underserved areas in Indiana that lack adequate treatment providers. Senator Murkowski and I have partnered on a bipartisan bill that would encourage addiction treatment professionals to serve in underserved areas by making addiction treatment facilities eligible for National Health Service Corps student loan repayment and forgiveness. We can show our commitment to increasing access to treatment by reauthorizing the National Health Service Corps program, which expired in September. We also must recognize that a meaningful response to the opioid crisis will require robust and meaningful funding to help our communities as soon as possible. I have often said that most people think Congress can do something to help make life better--to provide working parents with the peace of mind that their children can grow up healthy and to instill confidence in our communities so that they will have the tools they need to respond to this heartbreaking crisis. At the very least, Congress should not make this situation worse. By failing to take action in 2017, medical device companies are once again paying a counterproductive tax that inhibits growth in Indiana. On all of these issues--medical device taxes, our families and our children and this opioid crisis, community health centers--we can work together as Democrats, as Republicans, but more than either of those, as Americans to make sure that our families can get decent healthcare, to make sure that no one else dies because of this terrible opioid scourge we are dealing with. These are critically important issues. These are issues that know no political party, that know no special agenda. What we do know is that we need this Congress, this Senate, to deal with them now. Mr. President, I yield back.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, at some point this evening, we expect the House of Representatives to send the Senate a bill that would keep the Federal Government open for another few weeks before our heading home for Christmas. For most families, the holidays are an opportunity to take a break away from our busy lives and enjoy time with the people we love. It is safe to say, however, that will not be the case for tens of thousands of American families who have lost a loved one this year due to a drug overdose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released two important new reports this week. First, they found that life expectancy decreased in the United States for the second year in a row. Second, the likely cause of that decrease in 2016 is that over 63,000 people died of drug overdoses. That is more than 144 deaths per day, and it is a 21-percent increase from 2015. This is a crisis. People are dying in communities across this country every single day. Congress must do much more to address this scourge. Here in Washington, we have talked at length about the massive size and scope of the problem. Last year, we passed bipartisan legislation that was signed into law and is providing our local communities with more tools to fight the epidemic, and we approved initial funding to begin to support these and other efforts. I was proud to help bring nearly $11 million of that funding to Indiana. Earlier this fall, the President rightly declared the opioid abuse epidemic to be a nationwide public health emergency. On the frontlines, in places like my home State of Indiana, however, the battle is raging. Despite a unified response, there is more work to do. Our Governor, Governor Holcomb, has made the fight against opioid abuse the priority it needs to be. He and his administration are working closely with local communities to provide resources and support. Together, we have engaged our healthcare providers--both public and private--the business community, our educators, and the clergy who are all committed to this cause. Yet the message I continue to hear from people on the ground is, we need more resources and we need to expand treatment capabilities as soon as possible. We all know this is not a partisan issue. Over the last few years, I have been honored to work with seven of my Republican colleagues to introduce seven bills and amendments that address everything from prescribing practices to the shortage of addiction treatment professionals, and many of these ideas have already been signed into law. I am partnering with my State's Republican Governor to make sure we do everything in our power to help those who are battling with addiction, but it is not enough unless we provide our communities with the resources they are asking for and they need. This is the time of year that many Americans reflect on the year that has passed and identify the priorities in the years to come. In Congress, we need to do the same. More than 63,000 Americans died last year from opioid abuse. Those are 63,000 moms and dads, brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, sons and daughters who are not with us this year. We must make this issue a priority. I hope Congress will demonstrate to the American people that fighting the opioid epidemic is a priority. One way to do that is to include meaningful resources in the bill to fund our Federal Government and key programs when we deal with this again before January 19 of next year. I implore my colleagues to make this a priority, to provide the robust and meaningful funding our communities need to seriously address this problem. We are in the midst of a crisis. We must do more in 2018. We have families all across our Nation with broken hearts tonight for the ones they love and the ones they miss. Let's make sure there are no more in 2018; that this ends today.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, the majority leader's bill before us today continues the same broken tax system that incentivizes companies to move jobs to foreign countries, hurting more American communities and undercutting thousands of working American families. In Indiana, we know there is no such thing as a free lunch. In the Hoosier State, we work hard and we expect everyone else to pay their fair share. The tax bill we are considering cuts taxes for corporations and the wealthy by asking some middle-class families to pay more and by making healthcare more expensive for millions and millions of Americans. According to the nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, if we account for budget gimmicks, the cost of this bill could reach $2.2 trillion--not billion but trillion dollars. Here is what that means. This means our kids' and our grandkids' paychecks, the hard-earned money they make in the years ahead, will be sent to China to pay for tax cuts that will be given today to the wealthiest people in America. Our kids and our grandkids will be paying the bill for this tax cut that puts money in the pockets of the very, very wealthy. That is almost beyond belief. We need tax reform that actually benefits Hoosiers who go to work in the dark and come home in the dark. These are the folks that I run into at church or who stop by my office or I see at the gas station or at the diner. They look me in the eye, and they tell me they are working hard to make a decent living, to pay the bills, to raise their families, and to have a shot at retiring with dignity. They are not looking for any handouts. They simply want a good-paying job and a fair shake. Unfortunately, this bill is a significant missed opportunity to provide relief to middle-class families and to protect American jobs. From the very, very beginning of this debate, I have engaged in a good faith effort to exchange ideas and priorities for what we would like this tax bill to look like and to work together in a bipartisan manner. I worked to improve the bill that my colleagues have rushed through in a largely closed and partisan process. That includes my support for Senator Rubio's effort to expand the child tax credit for hard-working families, for which I give him much credit. Our country is stronger when we work together and when we pass legislation that focuses on the middle class and on regular families and that leaves a better future for all our children. Sadly, that is not what this bill would do. This bill raises taxes on many middle- class families, makes healthcare more expensive, does not address outsourcing, and significantly increases our national debt. I yield the floor.

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I rise to discuss the tax bill. I am disappointed. You see, I am one of the many Americans who believe that we need to reform our Tax Code to benefit middle-class families. I also believe that we need to make those reforms in a commonsense, responsible way. Sadly, that is not the approach that was taken with this legislation. From the very beginning of this effort, I have been willing to partner with Republicans or Democrats and with President Trump and his team. In fact, when President Trump unveiled his tax priorities in my home State of Indiana, I traveled with him on Air Force One. I wanted him to know that I was listening to his priorities and that I agreed with his stated goals of supporting the middle class and keeping jobs right here in America. I also wanted Hoosiers to know that I was committed to working with the President to reform our Tax Code in a way that helped Hoosier families and businesses. After that trip with the President and in every meeting with the administration, including two meetings at the White House, my attending Vice President Pence's speech in Anderson, IN, and in multiple discussions with top administration officials, I left feeling optimistic that we could work together to reform our Tax Code to achieve those goals we had agreed upon. I expected a proposal that was focused on cutting taxes for middle-class families. I expected a proposal that would help keep jobs in America and take away tax incentives from corporations that flagrantly outsource jobs to foreign competitors in foreign countries. Unfortunately, that is not the bill that the majority leader pushed through the Senate, nor is it the final bill that he and the Speaker of the House agreed upon. The reasons I oppose this bill are plain and simple, clear, and make common sense. Instead of providing a tax cut that overwhelmingly benefits the middle class, this bill cuts taxes for the wealthiest Americans while it raises taxes on a majority of families who will be making less than $75,000 in the coming years. Instead of closing tax loopholes like the shameful one that allows Wall Street hedge fund managers to pay a lower tax rate than a Hoosier firefighter, than a Hoosier teacher, than a Hoosier policeman, or a Hoosier steel worker-- imagine a hedge fund manager's tax rate being lower than that man's or woman's who is fighting a fire in Evansville this year. This bill preserves these giveaways. Think of that. It is outrageous. Instead of protecting American jobs by adopting provisions from my End Outsourcing Act--an effort that President Trump has told me on numerous occasions that he is all-in on and supports--this tax bill does zero to claw back tax breaks and incentives awarded to corporations that later decide to outsource American jobs. It also retains loopholes that allow corporations like Rexnord and Carrier to continue deducting the moving expenses when they ship those American jobs to other countries. Imagine that. There is a tax deduction for moving expenses to ship American jobs to other countries. They left it alone. Perhaps, there is no better example of an issue on which the President and I agree than preventing the outsourcing of American jobs. Right now in my home State of Indiana, nine companies have outsourced or will outsource the jobs of 2,200 Hoosiers. This is impacting moms and dads, sisters and brothers, wives and husbands, our neighbors, and our friends. This is our opportunity to stand up for American workers and make it clear that if corporations want a lower tax rate or special tax deductions, if they want the American taxpayer to invest in them, then, they must invest in American workers. That is the conversation I had with the President when we talked about our shared goals for tax reform, and these are the issues where I know there is common ground. Gene Sperling, formerly the chief economic adviser to two different Presidents recently, wrote: If there is one thing the Republican international tax bill was advertised to accomplish, it was that it would favor locating jobs and profits in the United States. It does just the opposite--expanding the degree our tax system tilts the playing field against American taxpayers and American workers. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record this article by Gene Sperling, recently published in The Atlantic, titled ``How the Tax Plan Will Send Jobs Overseas.''

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of U.S. Army SGT Jonathon Michael Hunter of Columbus, IN. Dedication to his country, loyalty to his fellow servicemembers, and a deep love for his family were the qualities that defined Jonathon's life. Jonathon graduated from Columbus East High School in 2011. While in high school, Jonathon played football for 4 years and was described by his coach as an unselfish player who put the team first. After high school, Jonathon pursued his dream of becoming a music producer in Nashville, TN, before enrolling at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, where he studied criminology and business. A selfless young man, Jonathon left college to join the Army. In the Army, he was a member of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division in Fort Bragg, NC. There he distinguished himself among his fellow soldiers as cheerful and a man of faith, who loved his country and fellow servicemembers. Jonathon enlisted in the Army because of his intense love for his country and wanted to make a difference in the lives of his fellow countrymen. On Wednesday, August 2, 2017, Jonathon and one other American soldier were tragically killed in a suicide bombing attack on a NATO convoy in southern Afghanistan, a mere 32 days into his first deployment. Among some of the awards he earned for his service were a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, NATO Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and Combat Infantry Badge. Jonathon was also a proud paratrooper who earned the German Parachutist Badge and was also an expert marksman. Jonathon put his life on the line in order to protect his country, and we are forever grateful for his service. Jonathon was a devoted patriot, son, and husband. He is survived and will be deeply missed by his wife, Whitney; his parents Mark Hunter of Columbus and Kimberly and Brian Thompson of Nashville, IN; his brother, Marcus Hunter; his sisters Lindsey--and her husband, Andy--England and Kelsey Thompson; his grandparents Jack and Linda Gilbert, Keith and Beulah Thompson, and Theola Hunter; as well as many relatives, friends, his U.S. Army family, and Hoosiers from across our great State. Jonathon set an example for others and will be remembered for his strong, selfless character and his drive to fight for justice and to make the world a better, more peaceful place. Let us remember and emulate the shining example this brave man set for us and honor his commitment to serving his fellow citizens. May God welcome Jonathon home and give comfort to his family.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service and sacrifice of Captain Eric Balliet of the Fort Wayne Fire Department. Service to his community and compassion were qualities that defined Eric's life. Eric was a 19-year veteran with the Fort Wayne Fire Department who devoted his life to the Fort Wayne community. A compassionate and devout father, husband, friend, and leader, Eric was someone whom everyone knew and loved in the community. He will be remembered as a hero. On September 27, 2017, Eric was leading a training exercise. After performing the physically demanding drill, Eric suffered a heart attack and passed away. He led the fire department as a captain, and Fire Chief Eric Lahey called Eric's passing ``a great loss for the Fort Wayne fire department.'' Lahey also said, ``He was a good firefighter. A good man. We're going to miss him.'' At the time of his passing, Eric was eligible and scheduled for promotion to the rank of battalion chief and was promoted posthumously to that rank. He put his life on the line so that Hoosiers could have the chance to live in peace and safety, and we are eternally grateful. Eric was born and raised in Fort Wayne. He graduated from Northrop High School in 1994 and earned an associate's degree from Ivy Tech. He not only served his community as a firefighter but also as a paramedic with Three Rivers Ambulance Authority, a deputy coroner with the Allen County Coroner's Office, captain of traffic division in the Allen County Sheriff Reserves, and dean of campers at the Great Lake Burn Camp. Eric was a member of Pathway Christian Church. He adored his two children and loved spending time with them. He was known for his ability to make anyone laugh and for his genuine care for everyone he came across. He is remembered for his service and sacrifice. He is survived and deeply missed by his wife, Alicia, and their twin children, Lucas and Alyssa; father, Gail; mother, Deborah; brother, Aaron; sister, Tina; grandparents, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his fellow firefighters. He loved his job as a Fort Wayne firefighter, and no amount of gratitude can repay Eric or his loved ones for his sacrifice. Through his compassion and his dedication to his community, Eric exemplified Hoosier values. His memory will not soon be forgotten. May God welcome Eric home and give comfort to his family and friends.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Maple Elementary School of Avon, IN, for being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that have demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, this program has allowed schools in every State to gain recognition for educational accomplishments, particularly in closing the achievement gaps among students. Maple Elementary School opened in 1971 and currently serves about 265 students. Maple prides itself on educating the ``whole child'' and ensuring that students are safe, healthy, supported, engaged, and challenged. These principles reflect the school's belief that, when students' basic needs are met, they are able to thrive academically. Maple Elementary's staff, students, and families work together to teach and foster values that develop strong character including academic excellence and service to others. Teachers and staff mentor students and encourage them to take on leadership roles, including student council service. Student council members are selected by their peers and organize several service-oriented and school events each year. In addition, the school counselor trains a group of students to mediate disputes through Project Peace, a program that fosters leadership skills and promotes healthy conflict resolution. Maple Elementary helps nurture strong relationships between students, their families, and the faculty. From the annual ``Walk-a-Thon,'' to Fall Fun Night, to Pastries with Parents, to Grandparents Day, Maple Elementary School is an example of how dedication, motivation, collaboration, and strong family engagement in education can benefit both the students and the local community. With a diverse student body, Maple has created an atmosphere for students to learn about the various backgrounds and cultures represented at the school. From country flags displayed in the hallway representing the nationality of current students to the counselor- sponsored Diversity Club, students are able to experience and interact with different cultures. I am proud to recognize Maple Elementary School Principal, Nicola Jo Harrison, the entire staff, the students, and their families. The effort, dedication, and value you put into these students' education has led not only to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the Avon community well into the future. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Maple Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the future.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Pleasant View Elementary School of Zionsville, IN, for being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that have demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, this program has offered the opportunity for schools in every State to gain recognition for educational accomplishments in closing the achievement gaps among students. Zionsville's Pleasant View Elementary School serves over 800 students from preschool through fourth grade. In addition to the core curriculum, the school provides many different learning opportunities for students before and after school, including language enrichment, music, and robotics programs. Pleasant View Elementary seeks to tailor instruction to meet students' individual learning styles and provide hands-on learning experiences. Pleasant View prides itself on creating a nurturing and collaborative learning environment where teachers, students, and parents work together so that all students can reach their potential. Teachers are encouraged to come up with new ideas to foster student growth through research-based practices to empower students and help them develop useful life skills. At Pleasant View, teachers understand that education is not one size fits all and that each student has their own unique way to learn. Pleasant View Elementary maintains a high standard for academic excellence, driven by the success of a rigorous curriculum, innovative instructional practices, and a highly qualified and dedicated staff. Faculty works closely with parents to ensure their children are receiving a quality education. The parent teacher organization also creates community and campus events to further enrich students academically and socially. Pleasant View Elementary School's dedication to student achievement and positive atmosphere have been key to its success. The school's staff and families work together to teach and foster values that develop strong character and better the community. I am proud to recognize Pleasant View Elementary School principal Stacy Smith, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The effort, dedication, and value you put into education has led not only to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the Zionsville community well into the future. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Pleasant View Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the future.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School of New Castle, IN, for being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that have demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, this program has offered the opportunity for schools in every State to gain recognition for educational accomplishments in closing the achievement gaps among students. Recognized as an ``A'' school 11 of the past 12 years, James Whitcomb Riley Elementary has shown its outstanding commitment to high-quality education. Through its core curriculum and extracurricular activities, faculty at Riley work to ensure that each child is receiving the best possible educational experience. As part of that effort, the school's staff communicates regularly with families and partners with community organizations to ensure that students are receiving the resources that they need. In addition, extracurricular opportunities are offered throughout the year and include Spell Bowl and Math Bowl competitions, a science fair, student council, and the National Geographic Bee. Riley students also regularly go out in the community for field trips to learn outside the classroom. Sixth-grade students take an annual trip to Washington, DC, to learn about the Federal Government in our Nation's Capital. Riley Elementary also puts an emphasis on service and giving back through fundraisers and food drives, instilling in students the importance of a community-focused mindset. Riley students participate in the annual Westminster Food Drive each winter to donate gifts to children at local shelters and abroad. The school also partners with Riley Children's Hospital through ``Spirit Week'' to connect students with young patients being treated at the hospital. Riley's students, facility, and staff work together to ensure every child succeeds, and the faculty partners with parents to encourage family engagement and parent involvement in school-sponsored activities, including a strong parent teacher organization. I am proud to recognize James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School's principal Nicholas John Middleton, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The effort, dedication, and value you put into education has led not only to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the New Castle community well into the future. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the future.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Barr-Reeve Elementary School of Montgomery, IN, for being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that have demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, this program has allowed schools in every State to gain recognition for educational accomplishments, particularly in closing the achievement gaps among students. Barr-Reeve Elementary School's history traces back to 1910 when it was known as Montgomery School and had 20 students. Today Barr-Reeve Elementary teaches students grades second to fifth and has approximately 290 students. The school supports students academically through small class sizes. When students face academic challenges, teachers help tutor them before and afterschool as well as during recess. Barr-Reeve Elementary utilizes innovative technology to learn about the geography and culture of the world on a digital level. Students each benefit from having a Chromebook, enhancing their learning and helping to prepare them for the technology based workplaces they will encounter in the future. Many teachers also utilize the nearby Naval Surface Warfare Center located in Crane, IN, for professional development and to take advantage of its lending library that enhances various STEM skills they can teach to students. Barr-Reeve Elementary School's staff, students, and families work together to teach and foster values that develop strong character. Each month, a different social skill is modeled and taught throughout the school. Students reinforce these positive behaviors through cards handed out by the student council to recognize students' positive character and leadership skills. The student council also instituted a tutoring program during the lunch recess to allow students to help their peers. Barr-Reeve Elementary School is an example of how dedication, motivation, collaboration, and strong family engagement in education benefits both students and the local community. At Barr-Reeve, parents are not only involved through an active parent teacher organization, but also as coaches, guest speakers, and volunteers in the classroom. I am proud to recognize Barr-Reeve Elementary School principal Dena Langacher, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The effort, dedication, and value you put into education has led not only to this prestigious recognition, but will benefit you and the Montgomery community well into the future. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Barr-Reeve Elementary School, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the future.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize and honor the extraordinary service of retired U.S. Army COL Roger Peterman, a Greenwood, IN, resident and dedicated veteran and public servant who served his country with honor. In 1967, Roger Peterman enlisted in the Army National Guard. He served in the field artillery in both enlisted and officer positions. He eventually moved through the ranks and rose to command two artillery batteries, an artillery battalion, the 38th Division Artillery, and held numerous staff assignments before retiring in March 2000. Colonel Peterman's Army service was one of distinction, as evidenced by his numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit; Meritorious Service Medal with two oakleaf clusters; Army Commendation; Army Achievement Medal; and the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal with a silver oakleaf cluster and two bronze oakleaf clusters. In 2012, he was presented the Office of the Secretary of Defense Medal, and in 2014, the National Guard Association of the United States awarded him the Distinguished Service Medal. In addition, Colonel Peterman was recognized with the Ancient Order of Saint Barbara Medal by the U.S. Field Artillery Association. Colonel Peterman has distinguished himself beyond his military service. The transition from the military to civilian life can be a difficult one for our veterans. We are grateful for Roger's post- military service mission to help veterans and military families through that transition with his work as a transition assistance adviser with the Indiana National Guard. Roger is also chairman of the Board for Operation: Job Ready Veterans, which aims to prepare our veterans for success in civilian employment; the Indianapolis Veterans Court Advisory Board; the Indiana National Guard Relief Fund; the American Legion; and AMVETS. Roger also serves on the board of directors for the Indiana chapter of the Association of the United States Army and is on the executive board of Indiana Blue Star. As Roger enters his ``second'' retirement, we thank him for his dedication and service to helping Indiana's veterans. Colonel Peterman's life has set an example not just for his two children and six grandchildren but for all Hoosiers. His commitment to defending our country and supporting our veterans is commendable. His integrity and tireless efforts have helped to make Indiana and this country a better place to live, work, and raise a family. We thank Roger's wife Carolyn, children, and grandchildren for sharing him with our country. We wish Roger well in retirement.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, today, I wish to recognize Eden Elementary School of Greenfield, IN, for being named a 2017 National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Established in 1982, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools that have demonstrated a vision of educational excellence for all students, regardless of their social or economic background. Since its inception, this program has allowed schools in every State to gain recognition for educational accomplishments, particularly in closing the achievement gaps among students. Eden Elementary School has continually distinguished itself as a top- performing school in Indiana. For the last 4 years, Eden Elementary has been named a Four Star School and named an A-rated school by the Indiana Department of Education for 6 consecutive years. Eden Elementary attributes much of its success to its effective implementation of the professional learning community model. Teachers are encouraged to focus on higher order thinking, integrating technology, and collaboration with math and reading instructional coaches. This model also allows teachers to work on targeted areas to improve an individual student's performance, which is contributing to the academic success of students. In addition, this interactive model enables teachers to share resources and ask questions to ensure the curriculum is being met across grade levels. Beyond strong academics, Eden Elementary also prides itself on its character education program. This starts with Eden's Eagle Expectations--three rules: students should be respectful, responsible, and ready to learn. The school also promotes healthy habits by instilling in students the importance of considering the needs of others, listening first, and working together. I am proud to recognize previous Eden Elementary School principal Devon Marine and current principal Melia Hammons, the entire staff, the student body, and their families. The effort and dedication you put into the education of these young people have led not only to this prestigious recognition but will benefit you and the Greenfield community well into the future. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana, I congratulate Eden Elementary, and I wish the students and staff continued success in the future.

Mr. DONNELLY

Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, earlier today, on rollcall vote No. 260, the motion to invoke cloture on Stephanos Bibas, of Pennsylvania, to be U.S. circuit judge for the Third District, I voted yea when I had intended to vote nay.