Steve Daines

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. I thank my colleague for raising this important issue on the Senate floor today. It wasn't all that long ago that I served as a House Member. I served one term in the House and then came over to the Senate this year. I came over to the Senate floor, and I stood in support of my colleague's efforts to protect the American civil liberties and ensure drones are not being used to target American citizens on our own soil. In fact, I am grateful to see that in the Senate Chamber today, we have five House Members who are here standing with the Senator from Kentucky as he makes his very important point which relates to our Constitution and our freedom. Well, 2 years later, we are here again, and the threats to America's civil liberties and constitutional freedoms remain ever present. As my colleague from Kentucky is well aware, I spent more than 12 years in the technology sector before being elected to Congress. I know firsthand the power that Big Data holds. I also know the great risks that arise when that power is abused. There is a clear and direct threat to Americans' civil liberties that comes from the mass collection of our personal information in our phone records. I, like so many Montanans, am deeply concerned about the NSA's bulk metadata collection program and its impact on our constitutional rights. In fact, just last night, I hosted a telephone townhall meeting with thousands of Montanans, and one of the issues I heard most about was the NSA's bulk data collection program and when is Congress finally going to put a stop to it. In fact, this is one of the issues I hear most about from my fellow Montanans. I brought down just a few of the thousands of letters I received from Montanans on the NSA's dangerous bulk metadata program. For example, I have a letter from Adam, who lives in Missoula. Adam writes: I'm writing to ask you to allow Section 215 of the PATRIOT Act to expire on June 1st of this year. While it is only one provision of the larger problem...it would at least begin to curtail the surveillance of Americans. As Americans we should be free to communicate without the threat of the government monitoring those communications. Wanting to keep your life private does not mean you have something to hide--only that your life isn't any of the government's business as long as you are not infringing on the liberty of others. At the end of the day, giving up our liberties because of the threat of terrorism truly is the definition of terrorism winning. To be free inherently means a person also incurs risks. Even though he was speaking about taxes, I believe Benjamin Franklin would agree: ``Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.'' Jes from my hometown of Bozeman, MT, wrote: I am writing to you as your constituent. NSA spying needs a comprehensive overhaul. But in the meantime, I urge you to show that you care about the Constitution by voting against reauthorization of Section 215 of the USA PATRIOT Act. Section 215 has been used to invade the privacy of millions of people. Although some in Congress and the NSA have argued that collecting call detail records (``metadata'') is not privacy invasion, the information collected by the government is not just metadata--it paints an intimate portrait of the lives of millions of Americans. What's more, the collection of call detail records isn't even necessary to keep us safe. The President, the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board and the President's Review Group have all admitted that collection of call detail records is not necessary. PCLOB [Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board] went so far as to note that it could not identify a single time in which bulk collection under Section 215 made a concrete difference in the outcome of a counterterrorism investigation. That's why I urge you to support reform by committing to a no vote on reauthorization of Section 215. A vote against reauthorization is a vote for the Constitution. Thank you for opposing unconstitutional surveillance and for supporting a free and secure Internet. Montanans are right to be concerned. This program is a direct threat to our constitutional rights. It has jeopardized our civil liberties with little proven effectiveness, and I am the son of a U.S. marine. Several weeks ago, I was with Leader McConnell and other Senators. When we went to Israel, we met with Prime Minister Netanyahu. When we went to Jordan, we met with King Abdallah. When we went to Iraq, we met with Prime Minister al-Abadi. When we were both in Baghdad, we went up to Erbil and met with the leaders of the Kurds, including Mr. Barzani. We then went to Afghanistan. We were in Kabul, and we were in Jalalabad. We met with President Ghani. We heard directly from the leaders in the Middle East, we heard directly from our U.S. military, and we heard directly from U.S. intelligence about what is going on in the Middle East. As the father of four and someone who strongly believes in a strong national defense and the importance of protecting our homeland, I weigh these issues very deeply. These are heavy issues we must look at as we want to ensure we protect the homeland and, just as important, protect the Constitution and the constitutional rights of the American people. As my colleague is likely aware, a 2014 report from the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, which is a nonpartisan, independent privacy board, found that the NSA's bulk data collection program said that it ``contributed only minimal value when combating terrorism beyond what the government already achieves through . . . other alternative means.'' Like the New York-based Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals recently unanimously confirmed, this oversight board found that section 215 of the PATRIOT Act does not provide authority for the NSA's bulk metadata collection program. In fact, the report states: Under the Section 215 bulk telephone records collection program, the NSA acquires a massive number of calling records from telephone companies each day, potentially including the records of every call made across the nation. Yet Section 215 does not authorize the NSA to acquire anything at all. It is illegal, it is an overreach of power, and it is a direct threat to our First and Fourth Amendment rights. In fact, the report goes on to conclude: The program lacks a viable legal foundation under Section 215, implicates constitutional concerns under the First and Fourth Amendments, raises serious threats to privacy and civil liberties as a policy matter, and has shown only limited value. For these reasons, the government should end the program. I stand here today with the people of Montana. I stand here today with my colleague from Kentucky. I stand here today with five Members of the U.S. House who are seated in the back of the Senate Chamber: Congressman Duncan of South Carolina, Congressman Blum of Iowa, Congressman Massie of Kentucky, Congressman Labrador of Idaho, and Congressman Amash of Michigan. I think it is important that the Senate recognize what the people's House did last week when they passed the USA FREEDOM Act. That vote was 338 to 88. To suggest that this is just a small minority of Congress men and women who support the USA FREEDOM Act--this is the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, the chairman of the Intelligence Committee, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee, and the chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, amongst many others, who want to make sure we strike the right balance between protecting the homeland and protecting our civil liberties. The people of Montana, my colleague from Kentucky, the five Members from Congress who are here at this moment, and millions of Americans know I strongly agree with their view on the USA FREEDOM Act. Like all Americans, I understand the great risks that face our national security. The threats from ISIS, the threats from North Korea, and the threats from Iran grow stronger each and every day. We must be prepared. We must ensure our intelligence and law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to protect and defend our Nation. But these objectives--national security and protection of our civil liberties-- are not mutually exclusive. We can and we must achieve both. We must maintain a balance between protecting our Nation's security while also maintaining our civil liberties and our constitutional rights. All of us standing here today took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. I took that oath just a few steps away from where I am speaking here today, between myself and the Presiding Officer's chair, occupied at the moment by the Senator from Utah, Mr. Lee. As all of us here today know, the fight to protect our Constitution and America's civil liberties is far from over. We must remain vigilant and we must also ensure that we have robust and transparent debate about these programs and what reforms must be implemented to protect America's civil liberties. That is why I support the USA FREEDOM Act, which would end the NSA's bulk metadata collection program and why I strongly believe that Congress must engage in an open amendment process. The American people must have their voices heard, and an open amendment process will help ensure that happens. In light of all we have learned about the NSA's unlawful bulk data collection program, it is clear that reforms must happen. It is critical that Americans' rights are protected against the overreach of their own government. So I ask the Senator from Kentucky, would he agree that the indiscriminate government collection of Americans' phone records violates the Constitution and, according to two independent commissions, has not proven critical to our national security? (Mr. TILLIS assumed the Chair.)

Mr. DAINES. Will the Senator from Kentucky yield for a question without losing his right to the floor?

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I wish to commend Deborah Blong from Missoula, MT, who was recently recognized as the recipient of the American Network of Community Options and Resources 2015 Direct Support Professional, DSP, of the Year Award for the State of Montana. This award recognizes Ms. Blong's dedication and hard work every day in her efforts to support members of the Montana community with intellectual, developmental, and other significant disabilities. Ms. Blong's selflessness is clear. In addition to taking care of her husband who suffers from Parkinson's disease, she manages a home with eight residents--four have Prader-Willi syndrome and three others struggle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. She works 14-hour days, often 6 to 7 days a week. Deborah Blong makes a difference each and every day for those whom she cares for. For 20 years, Ms. Blong has been a positive influence on those around her. For her efforts, Ms. Blong has earned the thanks of a grateful State.

Mr. DAINES

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

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate.

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 181, submitted earlier today.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, if there is no further business to come before the Senate, I ask unanimous consent that it stand adjourned under the previous order.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, Senators should be aware that the filing deadline for all first-degree amendments to both the underlying bill and the substitute amendment is at 1 p.m. tomorrow.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it adjourn until 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 20; that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, and the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day; that following leader remarks, the Senate then resume consideration of H.R. 1314.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate.

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 182.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this year marks the 10-year anniversary of the Indian coal production tax credit. This is a crucial tax incentive that levels the playing field for the future development of tribal coal resources that are currently subject to more regulatory requirements than comparable development on private, State or Federal land. The credit protects the economic viability of existing tribal coal mining projects which support much needed tribal jobs and provide a major source of non-Federal revenue for coal-producing tribes. Over the past 10 years, the Indian production coal tax credit has proven to be an essential tool in the work of Montana tribes to achieve self-sufficiency, increase economic opportunity, and create good-paying jobs for tribal members. It also has had a significant impact on Montana's economy as a whole. In fact, in the State of Montana, the Crow tribe relies on coal production for good-paying jobs and as much as two-thirds of the Crow Nation's annual non-Federal budget, partially funding Crow elder programs, higher education for tribal youth, and other essential services for the Crow's 13,000 enrolled members. Current unemployment on the Crow reservation is 47 percent. It would be over 80 percent if it weren't for the coal jobs. In fact, just last month, I chaired the first ever energy and jobs Senate field hearing on the Crow reservation back in Montana. I heard firsthand how the tax credit is creating economic opportunities for members of the Crow tribe. Yet the current nature of annual reauthorization has resulted in unnecessary uncertainty. The Crow tribe, as well as all who rely on the Indian coal production tax credit, deserve a long-term solution that provides them with the support and certainty they desperately need. In fact, at last month's hearing, Crow chairman Darrin Old Coyote testified, ``There are a few federal tax incentives that encourage investment and development in Indian country, but their utility is diminished by their short-term nature.'' For those who have spent time on the Crow reservation and throughout Southeastern Montana, the economic benefits are most evident. The Indian coal production tax credit has served as a catalyst for creating jobs and fostering tribal self-determination. In fact, the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development recently published a study of preliminary findings which analyzed the economic effects of this tax provision. The study found that the Indian coal production tax credit contributed 1,600 jobs across Montana and generated $107 million in royalties and tax revenue for the Crow tribe in 2013 alone. In addition, the tax credit stimulates $95 million in wages for the State of Montana. The Indian coal production tax credit, which expired at the end of 2014 after a 1-year extension, continues to serve the Crow tribe as an effective mechanism for economic development. However, it is a constant source of angst due to Congress's unwillingness to adopt an extension of this provision. The benefits of this tax credit are evident on tribal lands, especially in Montana. In fact, displayed prominently in my Washington, DC, office is a note from Crow chairman Old Coyote's daughter Evelyn. I have it framed in my office. She wrote: ``Please keep the coal tax credit going to help me and other Crow kids have a brighter future.'' A permanent extension provides much needed certainty to invest in large-scale energy production projects and provides a path forward for the long-term prosperity of our tribal nations. Today, I am introducing much needed legislation that addresses the problem and gives our tribes certainty. I appreciate my colleague Montana Senator Jon Tester for joining me in this important effort. I wish to thank Montana Representative Ryan Zinke for introducing a companion bill in the House of Representatives. I also wish to thank the bipartisan Senate team that includes Senators Barrasso, Moran, and Heitkamp for sponsoring this bill. Together, we will continue to advance this legislation for the betterment of Native American tribes. While there is still more to be done to better serve our tribes, the permanent extension of the Indian coal production tax credit is a good start. I believe this vital piece of legislation will continue to bring more good-paying jobs to Montana and to our Nation, and I strongly urge my colleagues in the Senate to support it.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this year marks the 10-year anniversary of the Indian coal production tax credit. This is a crucial tax incentive that levels the playing field for the future development of tribal coal resources that are currently subject to more regulatory requirements than comparable development on private, State or Federal land. The credit protects the economic viability of existing tribal coal mining projects which support much needed tribal jobs and provide a major source of non-Federal revenue for coal-producing tribes. Over the past 10 years, the Indian production coal tax credit has proven to be an essential tool in the work of Montana tribes to achieve self-sufficiency, increase economic opportunity, and create good-paying jobs for tribal members. It also has had a significant impact on Montana's economy as a whole. In fact, in the State of Montana, the Crow tribe relies on coal production for good-paying jobs and as much as two-thirds of the Crow Nation's annual non-Federal budget, partially funding Crow elder programs, higher education for tribal youth, and other essential services for the Crow's 13,000 enrolled members. Current unemployment on the Crow reservation is 47 percent. It would be over 80 percent if it weren't for the coal jobs. In fact, just last month, I chaired the first ever energy and jobs Senate field hearing on the Crow reservation back in Montana. I heard firsthand how the tax credit is creating economic opportunities for members of the Crow tribe. Yet the current nature of annual reauthorization has resulted in unnecessary uncertainty. The Crow tribe, as well as all who rely on the Indian coal production tax credit, deserve a long-term solution that provides them with the support and certainty they desperately need. In fact, at last month's hearing, Crow chairman Darrin Old Coyote testified, ``There are a few federal tax incentives that encourage investment and development in Indian country, but their utility is diminished by their short-term nature.'' For those who have spent time on the Crow reservation and throughout Southeastern Montana, the economic benefits are most evident. The Indian coal production tax credit has served as a catalyst for creating jobs and fostering tribal self-determination. In fact, the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development recently published a study of preliminary findings which analyzed the economic effects of this tax provision. The study found that the Indian coal production tax credit contributed 1,600 jobs across Montana and generated $107 million in royalties and tax revenue for the Crow tribe in 2013 alone. In addition, the tax credit stimulates $95 million in wages for the State of Montana. The Indian coal production tax credit, which expired at the end of 2014 after a 1-year extension, continues to serve the Crow tribe as an effective mechanism for economic development. However, it is a constant source of angst due to Congress's unwillingness to adopt an extension of this provision. The benefits of this tax credit are evident on tribal lands, especially in Montana. In fact, displayed prominently in my Washington, DC, office is a note from Crow chairman Old Coyote's daughter Evelyn. I have it framed in my office. She wrote: ``Please keep the coal tax credit going to help me and other Crow kids have a brighter future.'' A permanent extension provides much needed certainty to invest in large-scale energy production projects and provides a path forward for the long-term prosperity of our tribal nations. Today, I am introducing much needed legislation that addresses the problem and gives our tribes certainty. I appreciate my colleague Montana Senator Jon Tester for joining me in this important effort. I wish to thank Montana Representative Ryan Zinke for introducing a companion bill in the House of Representatives. I also wish to thank the bipartisan Senate team that includes Senators Barrasso, Moran, and Heitkamp for sponsoring this bill. Together, we will continue to advance this legislation for the betterment of Native American tribes. While there is still more to be done to better serve our tribes, the permanent extension of the Indian coal production tax credit is a good start. I believe this vital piece of legislation will continue to bring more good-paying jobs to Montana and to our Nation, and I strongly urge my colleagues in the Senate to support it.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent to speak for up to 7 minutes.

Mr. DAINES. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, I rise to recognize Montana's Sun River Watershed Group from Cascade, MT, which was recently named one of four finalists for the 2015 North American Riverprize, a prestigious recognition from the International RiverFoundation. The award is meant to honor projects that have demonstrated excellence and diversity in river restoration. The Sun River Watershed Group was formed in 1994 and has since prioritized the management and restoration of the river. Nineteen years later, the project is still succeeding. The group has formed a collaborative effort to discuss and solve natural resource issues and has acted as a seamless liaison between management agencies and the public. Although the Sun River Watershed Group was not awarded the top prize, their tireless work makes all of Montana exceedingly proud. They should be commended for their dedication to restoring river flows to the Sun River as well as improving efficiency of water allocation for irrigation. To Montana, you are our winner for making our State a better place to live, work, and enjoy.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I want to thank the Senator from Utah, my good friend, for his leadership on the USA FREEDOM Act. I recently returned from an official trip to the Middle East with leader McConnell and several of my fellow first-term Senators. We met with leaders in Israel, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, and Afghanistan to discuss the political and security issues facing Middle Eastern nations. We also met with a number of American servicemembers who are bravely securing our country in these crisis-stricken regions and working every day to keep our Nation safe from the extreme forces that wish to destroy us. These meetings painted a very clear picture; that terror imposed by extreme forces such as ISIS and the threats facing our allies in the Middle East are real and they are growing every single day. But the growing presence of ISIS in the Middle East is not just affecting the long-term security of nations such as Iraq and Syria, it is no longer a risk isolated geographically to the Middle East. These extreme Islamic forces are working every day to harm the American people within our borders and on our soil. It is critical our law enforcement officials and our intelligence agencies have the tools they need to find terrorists in the United States and abroad, identify potential terror attacks, and eradicate these risks. ISIS is not just working to inflict physical damage upon our country and our people, this extreme group and other like-minded terrorists are intent on destroying our very way of life, our Nation's foundation of freedom and justice for all. But as we strengthen our intelligence capabilities, we must, with equal vigor and determination, protect our Constitution, our civil liberties, the very foundation of this country. If the forces of evil successfully propel leaders in Washington to erode our core constitutional values, we will grant these terrorists a satisfying victory. We must never allow this. We must uphold the Constitution. We must work to protect the balance between protecting our Nation's security while also maintaining our civil liberties and our constitutional rights. That is why I, similar to so many Montanans, am deeply concerned about the NSA's bulk metadata collection program and its impact on our constitutional rights. This program allows the NSA to have uninhibited access to America's phone records. I firmly believe this is a violation of America's constitutional rights and it must come to an end. Montanans have also long been concerned that the NSA has overreached its legal authority when implementing its bulk data collection program. The recent ruling from the New York-based Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals confirmed it. The court ruled unanimously that section 215 of the PATRIOT Act does not authorize the NSA's bulk collection of Americans' phone metadata, but this is not the first time the legality of NSA's bulk data practices have been questioned. A 2015 report from the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, which is a nonpartisan, independent privacy board, found that section 215 does not provide authority for the NSA's collection program. The report raised serious concerns that the NSA's program violated the rights guaranteed under the First and Fourth Amendments. The report states: Under the section 215 bulk records program, the NSA acquires a massive number of calling records from telephone companies every day, potentially including the records of every call made across the Nation. Yet Section 215 does not authorize the NSA to acquire anything at all. The report concludes: The program lacks a viable legal foundation under section 215. It implicates Constitutional concerns of the first and fourth amendments, raises serious threats to privacy and civil liberties as a policy matter, and has shown only limited value. For these reasons the government should end the program. I strongly agree. In addition, the independent Commission found that the bulk collection program contributed only minimal value in combatting terrorism beyond what the government already achieves through other alternative means. So claims that this program provides unique value to our security were not validated, and, in fact, were refused by the Commission. As Montana's Senator, I took an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. It is a responsibility and a promise I take very seriously. That is why I have joined Senators Lee, Leahy, and others to introduce the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015. This bipartisan legislation will end the NSA's bulk data collection program, while also implementing greater oversight, transparency, and accountability in the government's surveillance activities. The USA FREEDOM Act strikes the right balance between protecting our security and protecting our privacy. It still allows necessary access to information specific to an investigation, with an appropriate court order, and provides the flexibility to be able to move quickly in response to emergencies, but it stops the indiscriminate government collection of data on innocent Americans once and for all. I have long fought to defend Montanans' civil liberties, protecting privacy and constitutional rights from Big Government overreach. After spending 12 years in the technology sector, I know firsthand the power that data holds and the threats to American civil liberties that come with mass collection. As Montana's loan representative in the U.S. House, I cosponsored the original USA FREEDOM ACT that would have ended the NSA's abuses and overreach. I also supported efforts led by Congressman Justin Amash to amend the 2014 Defense appropriations bill and end the NSA's blanket collection of Americans' telephone records. We made significant ground last year in raising awareness of this overreach, but the fight to protect America's civil liberties and constitutional freedoms is far from over. That is why I am proud to stand today as a cosponsor of the USA FREEDOM Act of 2015 and a strong advocate and defender of America's right to privacy. As risks facing our homeland and our interests overseas remain ever present, it is critical that our law enforcement has the tools they need to protect our national security from extremists who would destroy our Nation and our very way of life. The USA FREEDOM Act provides these tools, but we must also remain vigilant to ensure that American civil liberties aren't needlessly abandoned in the process. We need to protect and defend the homeland. We need to protect and defend the Constitution. I stand today with the full confidence that the USA FREEDOM Act achieves both, and I urge the Senate to pass it. I yield back.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I wish to recognize a group of Montana students and their teacher, who truly embody the innovative and hardworking spirit that has, for so long, been the engine of our great Nation. Ms. Jennifer Zirbel and her class at Lone Peak High School in Gallatin Gateway, MT, recently represented Montana well in the Capitol Hill Challenge with their exemplary performance in the 12th annual Stock Market Game. There were 5,000 high school and middle schools teams from all 50 States that participated in the Challenge. As the top performing Montana team in the competition, they have demonstrated exemplary knowledge of math, economics, business and the global economy. They have made Montana proud. They are outstanding young Montanans who have proven that hard work and dedication can lead to tremendous success in whatever you set your mind to. The real world financial and business skills that they have gained through their participation in this program will no doubt serve them well in their future as active citizens.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I rise today to honor Montana's thousands of small businesses and for their contributions to our State's economy. During National Small Business Week, we recognize all of the hard- working Montana men and women who took the risk to start a small business. These men and women have spent countless, sleepless nights working to create jobs and grow their business in a State they love and call home. Before being elected to Congress, I spent nearly 3 decades in the private sector, and I know firsthand there is no better place to live and work than in Montana. I also know that our small businesses are critical to Montana's economy and our State's future. According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses represent more than 97 percent of all Montana employers, in turn employing more than 68 percent of Montana's private sector labor force. I am excited to say there are a lot of small business success stories in Montana. We have countless business leaders and entrepreneurs working to drive our State's economic growth and helping us lead the way in a variety of industries, from tourism and agriculture to technology and resource development. Look no further than Bozeman, my hometown, where Advanced Electronic Designs is doing incredible things in innovations, helping to build up the Montana high-tech sector. Their team is comprised of 15 Montana State University engineers, and together they have designed more than 70 percent of the LED signs in Times Square--from the NBC ``Today'' show to the Disney store. I have also had the opportunity to tour ALCOM in Bonner, MT, to see their trailer manufacturing facility. They just won the Small Business Administration's 2015 Small Business Award for Montana Exporter of the Year. This award recognizes ALCOM's achievement in significantly increasing their export sales, profits, and jobs, while encouraging other Montana businesses to find new markets for their goods. This is an exciting time to do business back home in Montana. From our growing technology sector to our State's diverse natural resources, there is a lot of opportunity to create jobs and grow businesses in Montana. Unfortunately, the Federal Government's out-of-touch policies and bureaucratic overreach continue to prevent Montana's small businesses from reaching their full potential. Too many Montana businesses face regulatory burdens that hinder innovation and block opportunities for growth. Our Tax Code is too complex and serves as yet another barrier to prosperity. And ObamaCare's burdensome and costly mandates are forcing millions of dollars in new fees and compliance costs upon Montana's small businesses, in turn forcing our job creators to downsize, reduce employee hours, or close their doors altogether. When I drive around in Montana, I have yet to hear a small business owner ask for more regulations and higher taxes. We need commonsense policies that encourage Montana's job creators to innovate and to grow. We need solutions to lift these regulatory barriers, reduce tax burdens, and create long-term certainty for hard-working Montanans. I have long said that the best solutions don't come from bureaucrats in Washington, DC; they come from Main Street Montana and our State's hard-working businesses and community leaders because in Montana, we understand that jobs come from small business, not big government. That is why we need to reduce the redtape that is holding our small businesses back and work toward commonsense regulations that don't place unnecessary burdens on Montana families and Montana small businesses. We do need comprehensive tax reform that is fair, that is simpler, that promotes economic opportunity, and that works for all Montanans. And we need to repeal and replace ObamaCare with Montana-driven solutions that put patients and their doctors at the center of a health care equation and don't place these job-killing burdens on our small businesses. Instead of hindering our small businesses, we should reward them with flexibility and with the freedom they need to thrive and empower them with the tools they need to create jobs. That starts with educating Montana's future leaders and ensuring that students have the tools they need to succeed in their future careers. It is no secret that for many recent college graduates, finding a job in today's economy is harder than ever. This is especially true in Montana, where students are often forced to leave our State to find good-paying and long-lasting careers. It has been said that our top three exports are our grain, our cattle, and our children. As we work to grow Montana's technology and resources, we need to ensure that our students have the skills they need to get ahead and find jobs at home. From Montana's tribal colleges and vocational schools to the new Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship Building at Montana State University, Montana's educational institutions are leading the way in giving our students the head start they need to succeed outside of classrooms and help grow our State's economy because when small businesses succeed, our economy thrives. We need to continue to find ways to encourage investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation in our State and all across our Nation. Our country was founded on the principles of hard work and entrepreneurialism. I am proud that Montana's small businesses continue to exemplify these pillars of our Nation's heritage and are leading the way in economic innovation. During this National Small Business Week, I encourage all of my fellow Montanans to shop small and join me in supporting Montana's small businesses and thanking them for the important role they hold in our State--not just this week but every week. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I wish to recognize three outstanding Montana students who exemplified true bravery and heroism last week. Tanner Archuleta and Jacob Javorsky from Flathead High School in Kalispell, MT, rushed to help when they saw smoke billowing from a house down the street from school. Tanner raced into the house and awoke Ryan Murray, who escaped the burning house safely with his dog. Separately, Amanda Buxton took action on her way to school and alerted authorities to the fire, providing fire crews much needed timely information. Tanner, Jacob and Amanda deserve much recognition for their ability to act quickly and selflessly in an emergency. Their quick thinking saved the life of a fellow Montanan. They are admirable young Montanans and deserve endless thanks.

Mr. DAINES

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

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today the Senate will vote to confirm Dava Newman to be Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. I had the pleasure of meeting with Dr. Newman. She is a talented individual. She is passionate about aerospace engineering and is generating awareness of science, technology, energy, and math opportunities in Montana students. Dr. Newman is excited to get to work and continue to make NASA competitive with other countries studying space exploration. A graduate of C.R. Anderson Middle School and Capital High School in Helena, MT, Dr. Newman is a testament to the quality of Montana's public education. After graduating from high school, Dr. Newman attended the University of Notre Dame before pursuing graduate school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dr. Newman is now a professor of aeronautics and astronautics. In 2007, Time magazine highlighted Dr. Newman's work as one of the best inventions of the year. She developed a new space suit, known as the BioSuit, to increase astronauts' agility and movements, allowing astronauts to not only walk but also run and even climb mountains. Her track record of success and nomination to NASA serve as a way to encourage young Montanans to pursue careers in space and engineering. Dr. Newman is an incredibly accomplished Montanan who truly exemplifies our State's legacy of public service. Her passion and dedication to NASA is clear. I know she will lead with honor and is prepared for whatever challenges may lie ahead. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of Dr. Newman's nomination. I yield back the remainder of my time. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today, I introduce two bills, S. 1103 and S. 1104, with my colleague from Montana, Senator Jon Tester, my Idaho colleagues Senators Risch and Crapo and also my counterpart in the House, Montana's Representative Ryan Zinke. Current uncertainty in the permitting process threaten sources of clean, renewable power in my State. My bills would allow the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to extend a license for nonfederal hydropower development on existing dams in my state of Montana. The first bill would extend for 3 years a contract for hydropower development on the Clark Canyon Dam in Dillon, Montana. The bill would allow for construction and operation of a project that would power about 1,200 homes each year with clean, renewable hydropower, while replacing 18,000 metric tons of carbon each year. The bill would help create 30 to 40 jobs during construction. Further, the project would produce $611,000 in State and Federal taxes over the first 5 years of operation and $37,000 in property tax contributions over the first 5 years. The second bill would provide a 6 year contract extension for nonfederal hydropower development on the Gibson Dam, near August and Choteau Montana. Once completed, the project will provide for decades of stable of tax revenues per year to each Teton and Lewis and Clark Counties, the state of Montana, and the Federal Government. Gibson Hydro project will benefit the environment as they are required by their FERC license to incorporate measures in their operations and construction that would enhance fish and wildlife resources, water quality, recreational and aesthetic resources. Further, the project would replace 40,000 tons of carbon per year and will strengthen the irrigation component of the Gibson Dam by providing a portion of the power sales to Greenfields Irrigation District to support irrigation improvements, operations, water conservation and usage enhancements. This bill will help create 15-25 construction jobs, $1 million in local revenue over 2 years, and $4-5 million in wages during construction phase and over $200,000 per year for the Sun River Cooperative. Hydropower development must be a key component of our Nation's all- of-the-above strategy to meet our Nation's needs. Passing these bills will show the Senate's commitment to hydropower as a clean source of power for our country. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bills be printed in the Record.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, I am glad that today the Senate will take the long-overdue step forward and approve the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act--bipartisan legislation that I am proud to be a cosponsor of that will help victims of human trafficking. Montanans know firsthand the immeasurable damage human trafficking has inflicted on our communities, our schools, and, most of all, the victims of these horrific crimes. We also know the importance of coming together to support the victims of this modern-day slavery. Too often, victims of human trafficking are underserved and fail to get the resources they so desperately need. This important bill will provide our law enforcement officials and the communities with the necessary tools to help lift these innocent victims out of the shadows. Montanans understand the importance of cracking down on the perpetrators of these crimes and ensuring that we are serving as an advocate for victims--without letting partisan politics get in the way. I strongly urge all of my colleagues to come together today and do what is right for the victims of human trafficking and pass the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. This is a fair and commonsense proposal that I believe Members on both sides of the aisle can support. Before major land decisions are made by the Federal Government, the people affected most by these decisions should have a seat at the table and have their voices heard. I was confused when I heard the senior Senator from Nevada claim this morning that my amendment would in some way gut or repeal law, providing the ability for national monument designations to take place. That is simply false. In sharp contrast, it is designated to strengthen the law by ensuring that the voice of the people is heard as designations are considered. After all, it is the people who are affected by these decisions, not politicians in Washington. As a fifth-generation Montanan and a lifelong sportsman, I treasure and am committed to protecting our public lands. I deeply appreciate that landmarks like Pompeys Pillar in Montana or Lehman's Cave in Nevada have been protected for future generations. But there is a difference between targeted designations to protect historic landmarks and designating hundreds or even thousands or millions of acres against the will of the States and local residents. The Senator from Nevada is saying that Washington, DC, should have more influence over local land use decisions than the folks in Western States who live and work on this land every day. I disagree. I believe the farmers, the ranchers, the sportsmen, the community members, and the State and local governments should have a say in local land decisions. I remind him the 1906 act was designed to prevent damage to specific sites of historical, scientific or cultural significance. As the law States, ``. . . the smallest area compatible with the proper care in management of objects to be protected.'' The law was not intended to block out access or damage operation of nearby landowners. The law was not intended to be used as a way for a President, as they are leaving office, to unilaterally make decisions without consulting the States in the local communities. Strengthening the role of locally impacted residents and States is vitally important because, unfortunately, Presidents of both parties have also abused the Antiquities Act, designating unjustifiably excessive, large-scale pieces of ground through unilateral action despite local opposition from land users. Let me remind the Senator from Nevada of the Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument designation. Local residents oppose that designation. Since the monument was designated in 1996, there has been a reduction in grazing. Development of a large coal mine has stopped. Local rural communities are struggling. Wouldn't it have been better to protect the Grand Staircase in a way that also protected local communities? Look to New Mexico, where the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument was designated in 2014 May against the will of local communities. Representative Steve Pearce had a bill to protect 50,000 acres of land, which he worked with local residents and affected communities to implement. That bill was ignored, and the administration instead introduced a monument of 500,000 acres that touches all the way to the Mexican border. During President Obama's first term, an internal document surfaced from the Interior Department revealing the Obama administration's plans to use the Antiquities Act to designate 14 new national monuments, comprising millions of acres across our country. One of the areas on the list is 2.5 million acres of land across northern Montana, connecting Canada's Grasslands National Park to the Bitter Creek Wilderness Study Area. Right in the middle of this designation are significant swaths of public lands. This potential designation is very contentious in Montana, which I believe Montanans must have a voice in determining whether it goes forward. During a recent House Natural Resources Committee hearing, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell confirmed that she wants public input and local input in Antiquities Act designations. So why would anyone oppose elevating State and local input in these designations? Despite the claims made by the Senator from Nevada, my amendment will not repeal the Antiquities Act. It is not going to gut the law. It will not repeal existing protections on our national parks and national monuments. It will not prevent future designations from being made. My amendment simply ensures that local residents and the States have a meaningful voice in determining monument designations. In 2010, former Interior Secretary Salazar stated during a Senate hearing that the administration would have a conversation and dialogue with people locally and across the country before any monument designations occur. My amendment simply holds this and future administrations accountable to what they said they would do, and it protects the voice of the people in decisions such as this. Protecting the voice of the people should not offend Members of this body. It should be our abiding commitment. It should be our priority. Amendment No. 465