Tammy Duckworth

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Vietnam Veteran and Native American artist, Jimmy Two Dogs Coplin, who recently passed away in his Cicero, Illinois home at the age of 57. Mr. Coplin lost his sight to diabetes but continued to create striking works of art with Native American themes using ceramics, silver, feathers and arrows. Kiowa men and women have served in the armed forces since World War I and Mr. Coplin continued this honorable tradition by serving in the Army during Vietnam. Mr. Coplin will be remembered fondly by his family, friends and many of his patrons. Mr. Coplin's dedication to his art and country will continue to live on and inspire others. Mr. Coplin is survived by his mother, Edith Rokita, sister, Vicky Whitaker, daughter, Melissa Rokita, son, Bubba James Rokita, and two grandchildren.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a dedicated public servant from the Eighth Congressional District of Illinois who is turning 50 years old this week. Twenty-five years ago, Steve Tufenkjian graduated from the Illinois State Police Academy and has served the people of Illinois in several different ways ever since. In that time, he has served as everything from a K9 officer to a member of the Special Enforcement Team and from Sergeant to his current role where he oversees a team of Troopers as Platoon Commander. In each of his roles, Mr. Tufenkjian has been recognized by the Illinois State Police for his great work. He has received several awards for his dedication and, as a member of the Special Enforcement Team, he made more than 1,000 reckless driving arrests. Our state and our nation need more dedicated public servants like Steve Tufenkjian. I wish him and his family--his two sons Zachary and Jacob as well as his wife of 17 years Michelle, who is also a State Police officer--a happy 50th birthday and thank them for their continued public service and efforts to keep our community safe.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I am here today to recognize one of my outstanding constituents, Ms. Veronica Potter, of Barrington, Illinois. She recently wrote a letter to a hometown paper saying: I know that the service of women in our current history is applauded because the service is indeed equal to that of men in our military, but in World War II, there were many women involved in serving their country in the military, but as a whole, nothing is ever mentioned. Well, Mr. Speaker, she is right, so I would like to mention her today here on the House floor. The Women's Reserve was created in 1942 when the strain of our two- front war caused shortages in military personnel. Recognizing her country needed her in a time of war, Veronica selflessly volunteered and served in the U.S. Marines Corps Reserves from 1944 to 1946 and supported our country's efforts during World War II. Veronica joined the Marines right out of high school. After basic training, she was deployed to the Marine base in Parris Island, South Carolina, for 2 years, where she contributed to the wartime operations on the base that helped train more than 204,000 marines destined for the front line in defense of our great Nation. Ms. Potter served our country in a dire time of need and has not been properly recognized for her efforts. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and recognizing Veronica Potter, a woman who contributed to the success of the U.S. Marines during World War II.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, recently, we lost William White to cancer, but his contributions to his community and dedication to his friends and family will not be forgotten. His life is yet another example of the American Dream realized. Born in 1930, in Brooklyn, Bill started out selling printing presses in New York. Eventually, he would join forces with his brother Tom to build some of New York City's most impressive restaurants. While he was well known for his success in business, Bill was also an important member of his community in Point Lookout, New York. There, he established the chamber of commerce and was an active member of the Point Lookout Civic Association. He was a true example that we can all find a way to serve and give something back to this great Nation. He met his wife of almost 60 years, Patricia, at a dance near West Point in 1955. He and Pat traveled the world, always excited to explore culture and cuisine on their next great adventure. They had one child, Bill, who works in philanthropy and has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for our Nation's veterans. I know that Bill was very proud of his son. His legacy of service, carried on by his son, has meant that thousands of veterans--our Nation's heroes-- have received help they otherwise would not have received. While this is a painful time for all who knew Bill, I know his family and friends can be proud of the life he lived and his dedication to his family and his country.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on June 15, 2015 on Roll Call #364 on H. Res. 233--Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Iran should immediately release the three United States citizens that it holds, as well as provide all known information on any United States citizens that have disappeared within its borders--I am not recorded because a weather-related flight cancellation prevented me from being present for the vote. I am a cosponsor of this important resolution and believe it sends a critical message that if Iran truly wants to engage in constructive interaction with the world, it must release American prisoners. Had I been present, I would have voted AYE. On June 15, 2015 on Roll Call #365 on H.R. 2559--to designate the ``PFC Milton A. Lee Medal of Honor Memorial Highway'' in the State of Texas--I am not recorded because a weather-related flight cancellation prevented me from being present for the vote. Had I been present, I would have voted AYE.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, this year's Defense Appropriations bill relies on adding an additional $38 billion into the overseas contingency operations account, the OCO account. This budgeting gimmick is an end around to sequestration. It avoids the hard work that is required to reach a budget agreement and repeal sequestration once and for all. OCO funds are supposed to be used for war operations, and their use in the legislation misleads the American people. The sequester cuts continue to have devastating impact on our schools, our Nation's infrastructure, and our investments in scientific research. Now is the time to fix this sequester, not deceive the American people about defense spending. Our servicemembers and their families deserve to know their future more than just 1 year at a time. As a nation, we need to base our military strategy on an appropriate, long-term defense spending plan, not a budgetary gimmick. Mr. Speaker, I voted for this legislation because we cannot leave our troops who are currently in harm's way without funding. As the appropriations process moves forward, I urge my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to provide our military with the long-term support it needs and the American people with the transparency that they deserve.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. I thank the gentlewoman from D.C. Madam Speaker, I stand today in opposition to this resolution. I want to make clear the consequences of the misguided resolution that we are considering today because it is not about religious freedom; it is about the freedom to make incredibly personal and significant decisions without having to consult your boss. I have recently experienced the joy of becoming a mother for the first time. This miracle was not possible without the aid of in vitro fertilization. Given the excess radiation exposure I received during treatment for my combat-related amputations, this was the only way I would ever have a child. Every woman in this country should have the same opportunity to start a family, and no woman should ever be fired for doing so. This should be common sense. Unfortunately, the resolution before us today would remove the legal protections ensuring that this is the case in D.C. The law we are voting to disapprove today would prevent stories like that of Emily Herx's, a language arts teacher at a Catholic school in Indiana. She was fired after school authorities discovered that she and her husband used in vitro fertilization to try to have a child. They sought IVF treatments after learning that she suffered from a medical condition that caused infertility. She was told that the procedure was contrary to church teachings, and, as a result, her teaching contract would not be renewed. Last December, a jury sided with her, awarding her damages in the case. Employees like Emily Herx should be judged at work based on their job performances, not on private decisions they make with their families and doctors. That is exactly what the D.C. Council intended to ensure in passing their resolution to protect women in the District. I urge all Members to oppose this attempt by the majority to limit the rights of the people of the District of Columbia. In this day and age, the last thing we should be doing is punishing couples who are having difficulty in starting a family.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with sorrow and a heavy heart in recognition of Mr. Mark Johnson, a former DuPage High School District 88 Board of Education Member and constituent of mine. Mark was diagnosed with bone cancer this past spring and passed away on December 13, 2014. Mark did everything with a sense of commitment and dedication. His contributions and character have greatly impacted our community, and his legacy will not only live on in the School District, but also in the hearts of those who knew him. Mark served on the District 88 Board of Education since 1999 and was President from 2003-2011. He graduated from Willowbrook High School in 1966 and received the school's Distinguished Alumni Award in 2012. Through being a District 88 graduate and Board member, a D.A.R.E. officer and a Villa Park Police Department employee, Mark was involved in the communities of District 88 for more than 50 years. Thank you Mark for all that you have done for DuPage County, you will be sorely missed.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on February 10, 2015, on Roll Call #69 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 719--TSA Office of Inspection Accountability Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 10, 2015, on Roll Call #70 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 720--Gerardo Hernandez Airport Security Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 11, 2015, on Roll Call #71 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 100, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 11, 2015, on Roll Call #72 on H. Res. 100, Providing for consideration of S. 1, the Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 11, 2015, on Roll Call #74 on the Democratic Motion to Commit S. 1, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 11, 2015, on Roll Call #75 on Passage of S. 1--Keystone XL Pipeline Approval Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 11, 2015, on Roll Call #76 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 431--To award a Congressional Gold Medal to the Foot Soldiers who participated in Bloody Sunday, Turnaround Tuesday, or the final Selma to Montgomery Voting Rights March in March of 1965, which served as a catalyst for the Voting Rights Act of 1965, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 12, 2015, on Roll Call #77 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 101, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 12, 2015, on Roll Call #78 on H. Res. 101, Providing for consideration of H.R. 644, the Fighting Hunger Incentive Act of 2015 and H.R. 636, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently extend increased expensing limitations, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 12, 2015, on Roll Call #79 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 644, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 12, 2015, on Roll Call #80 on Passage of H.R. 644-- Fighting Hunger Incentive Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 13, 2015, on Roll Call #81 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 636, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 13, 2015, on Roll Call #82 on Passage of H.R. 636-- America's Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to recognize one of my constituents, Holly Schlesser, and her selfless act for a child in need. This past fall Holly donated a piece of her liver to a friend's 8 month old baby, Madison Casey. Holly and Madison's mom, Tanya, are the wives of firefighters in Streamwood, Illinois. Service and sacrifice is a part of their daily lives. Madison was born with a rare genetic disorder that led to liver failure. Thanks to Holly Schlesser's selfless gift she now has real hope of growing up healthy and strong alongside her twin brother. The Schlesser and Casey families show us the importance of living through our actions. Their story is also an important reminder about the incredible difference that organ and tissue donors can make. There is a large and heartbreaking gap between the supply and demand for lifesaving organs and tissue. Each day an average of 18 people in the United States in need of transplants die waiting. And without angels like Holly Schlesser, every 10 minutes a new person joins the national transplant waitlist. In my home state of Illinois, Gift of Hope, which is part of the national organ and tissue donation system, is working hard to address this challenge by educating the public about the need for donors. They're making progress and experienced their second record-setting year in a row in 2014, helping make 1,024 lifesaving donations happen through the generosity of 336 organ donors and 1,912 tissue donors. I applaud the more than 5 million Illinoisans who have decided to become organ and tissue donors and encourage other Americans to follow the example set by my neighbors.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on February 2, 2015, on Roll Call #51 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 361--Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 2, 2015, on Roll Call #52 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 615--Department of Homeland Security Interoperable Communications Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 2, 2015, on Roll Call #53 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 623--Social Media Working Group Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 3, 2015, on Roll Call #54 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 70, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 3, 2015, on Roll Call #55 on H. Res. 70, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 596) to repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and health care-related provisions in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 3, 2015, on Roll Call #57 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 596, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 3, 2015, on Roll Call #58 on Passage of H.R. 596--To repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and health care- related provisions in the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #59 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 78, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #60 on H. Res. 78, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 527) Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act of 2015 and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 50) Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #61 on Agreeing to the Cummings of Maryland Amendment to H.R. 50, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #62 on Agreeing to the Connolly of Virginia Amendment to H.R. 50, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #63 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 50, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 4, 2015, on Roll Call #64 on Passage of H.R. 50--Unfunded Mandates Information and Transparency Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On February 5, 2015, on Roll Call #65 on Agreeing to the Schrader of Oregon Amendment to H.R. 527, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 5, 2015, on Roll Call #66 on Agreeing to the Jackson-Lee of Texas Amendment to H.R. 527, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 5, 2015, on Roll Call #67 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 527, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On February 5, 2015, on Roll Call #68 on Passage of H.R. 527--Small Business Regulatory Flexibility Improvements Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on January 21, 2015, on Roll Call #38 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 38, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 21, 2015, on Roll Call #39 on H. Res. 38, Providing for consideration of H.R. 161, the Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act; and providing for consideration of H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 21, 2015, on Roll Call #40 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 161, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 21, 2015, on Roll Call #41 on Passage of H.R. 161--Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 22, 2015, on Roll Call #42 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 42, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 22, 2015, on Roll Call #43 on H. Res. 42, Providing for consideration of H.R. 7, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 22, 2015, on Roll Call #44 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 7, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 22, 2015, on Roll Call #45 on Passage of H.R. 7--No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on January 27, 2015, on Roll Call #46 on H. Res. 48, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 351) to provide for expedited approval of exportation of natural gas, and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 27, 2015, on Roll Call #47 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 469--Strengthening Child Welfare Response to Trafficking Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 27, 2015, on Roll Call #48 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 246--To improve the response to victims of child sex trafficking, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 28, 2015, on Roll Call #49 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 351, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 28, 2015, on Roll Call #50 on Passage of H.R. 351--LNG Permitting Certainty and Transparency Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on January 12, 2015, on Roll Call #17 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 203--Clay Hunt SAV Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 12, 2015, on Roll Call #18 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 33--Protecting Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #20 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 27, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #21 on H. Res. 27, Providing for consideration of H.R. 37, the Promoting Job Creation and Reducing Small Business Burdens Act; H.R. 185, the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2015; and H.R. 240, Making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2015, and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #23 on Agreeing to the McKinley of West Virginia Amendment to H.R. 185, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #24 on Agreeing to the Johnson of Georgia Amendment to H.R. 185, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #25 on Agreeing to the Jackson Lee of Texas Amendment to H.R. 185, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #26 on Agreeing to the Connolly of Virginia Amendment to H.R. 185, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #27 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 185, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 13, 2015, on Roll Call #28 on Passage of H.R. 185-- Regulatory Accountability Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #29 on Agreeing to the Aderholt of Alabama Amendment to H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #30 on Agreeing to the Blackburn of Tennessee Amendment to H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #31 on Agreeing to the DeSantis of Florida Amendment to H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #32 on Agreeing to Salmon of Arizona Amendment to H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #33 on Agreeing to the Schock of Illinois Amendment to H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #34 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit of H.R. 240, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #35 on Passage of H.R. 240-- Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #36 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit of H.R. 37, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 14, 2015, on Roll Call #37 on Passage of H.R. 37-- Promoting Job Creation and Reducing Small Business Burdens Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on January 6, 2015, on Roll Call #2 on the question of the Election of the Speaker, I am not recorded due to weather-related flight delays. Had I been present, I would have nominated Nancy Pelosi to be Speaker of the House.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on January 7, 2015, on Roll Call #8 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 26--Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 7, 2015, on Roll Call #9 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 37--Promoting Job Creation and Reducing Small Business Burdens Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 7, 2015, on Roll Call #10 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 23--National Windstorm Impact Reduction Act Reauthorization, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 8, 2015, on Roll Call #11 on the Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 8, 2015, on Roll Call #12 on H. Res. 19--Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3) to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 30) the Save American Workers Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 8, 2015, on Roll Call #13 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 30, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 8, 2015, on Roll Call #14 on Passage of H.R. 30--Save American Workers Act of 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On January 9, 2015, on Roll Call #15 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 3, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On January 9, 2015, on Roll Call #16 on Passage of H.R. 3--Keystone XL Pipeline Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I was pleased that my colleagues unanimously agreed during the 113th Congress that we must act to combat Veteran suicide and I am grateful that we are acting quickly in the first days of the 114th Congress to address this critical unfinished business. The statistics are heartbreaking. An average of 22 Veterans commit suicide every day. So each day that we delay action is a day we cannot afford. I was proud to help introduce HR. 5059, Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act with Chairman Jeff Miller and Representative Tim Walz. While there is no bill that will completely end Veteran suicide, this comprehensive measure is a step in the right direction. It will remove barriers that prevent our nation's heroes from getting the quality, timely mental health care that they deserve. It is my sincere hope that my colleagues in the Senate will take note of the momentum in the House and bring this legislation to the Senate Floor as soon as possible.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on December 9, 2014, on Roll Call #552 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 5781, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 9, 2014, on Roll Call #553 on Passage of H.R. 5781-- California Emergency Drought Relief Act 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #554 on H. Res. 775 Providing for consideration of S. 2244, the Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014; and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #555 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass S. 1000--Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #557 on Passage of S. 2244-- Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #558 on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 4681, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #559 on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 2719, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 10, 2014, on Roll Call #560 on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1204, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 11, 2014, on Roll Call #561 on H. Res. 776, Providing for Consideration of the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment with an Amendment to H.R. 83--Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 11, 2014, on Roll Call #562 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5806--Supporting America's Charities Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 11, 2014, on Roll Call #563 on the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment with an Amendment to H.R. 83--Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 11, 2014, on Roll Call #564 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended H.R. 5699--John Muir National Historic Site Expansion Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on December 1, 2014, on Roll Call #532 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended H.R. 5629-- Strengthening Domestic Nuclear Security Act of 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 1, 2014, on Roll Call #533 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 3438--National Laboratories Mean National Security Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #534 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass S. 2040--Blackfoot River Land Exchange Act of 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #535 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5050--May 31, 1918 Act Repeal Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #536 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended H.R. 3572--To revise the boundaries of certain John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System units, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #537 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5739--No Social Security for Nazis Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #538 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and H.R. 3240--Regulation D Study Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 2, 2014, on Roll Call #539 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended H.R. 2366--World War I American Veterans Centennial Commemorative Coin Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 3, 2014, on Roll Call #540 on H. Res. 766, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5771) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain expiring provisions and make technical corrections, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 647) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for the tax treatment of ABLE accounts established under State programs for the care of family members with disabilities, and for other purposes. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 3, 2014, on Roll Call #541 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and H.R. 5769--``To authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2015, and for other purposes.'', I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 3, 2014, on Roll Call #543 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 5771, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 3, 2014, on Roll Call #544 on Passage of H.R. 5771--Tax Increase Prevention Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 3, 2014, on Roll Call #545 on Passage of H.R. 647-- Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #546 on the Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #547 on H. Res. 770--Rule providing for consideration of the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment with an Amendment to H.R. 3979--National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015, H.R. 5759--``Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act,'' and H.R. 5781--California Emergency Drought Relief Act of 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #548 on H. Res. 758--Strongly condemning the actions of the Russian Federation, under Vladimir Putin, which has carried out a policy of aggression against neighboring countries aimed at political and economic domination, as amended, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #549 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 5759, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #550 on Passage of H.R. 5759, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On December 4, 2014, on Roll Call #551 on the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment with an Amendment to H.R. 3979, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, the National Defense Authorization Act provides critical authorities for our men and women in uniform. It provides for their pay, addresses issues of mental health and suicide, protects victims of sexual assault and ensures they are well equipped and trained to conduct the missions that the country asks of them. I am proud that my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee and in the House could come to bipartisan agreement on this legislation to ensure that our Armed Forces remain the best in the world. It is not perfect, but this year's NDAA is an example of how we can work together to keep the American people safe, save tax payer dollars and make sure our men and women in uniform get the support they deserve. However, I remain concerned about the provision included in the NDAA to provide for authorization through 2016 for the equipping and training of Syrian rebels. There still remain too many questions about the long term implications of arming and equipping rebel forces and how this action fits into our broader strategy of destroying ISIS. I believe, without a detailed discussion on what supporting the Syrian rebels entails, that this kind of authorization will lead to a much longer and costly level of engagement. Congress has failed to properly discuss and weigh the long term consequences of this military action. As a Member of Congress, it is my responsibility to make sure we don't commit resources, the most precious of which are our men and women in uniform, with no comprehensive plan for our involvement. Congress needs to debate and develop a new Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) before authorizing one piece of that strategy that will inevitably lead to further involvement across multiple national borders.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I was proud to help introduce H.R. 5059, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act with Chairman Jeff Miller and Representative Tim Walz. This bipartisan bill, named after 28-year-old Marine Veteran Clay Hunt, who tragically took his own life in March 2011, will reduce the barriers that prevent our Veterans from receiving quality mental health care. It is a heartbreaking reality that twenty-two Veterans take their own lives each day. These are all casualties of war. As a nation, we are failing these brave men and women. This legislation will task an independent, third party to annually review mental health care and suicide prevention programs and make recommendations on how to improve care. The bill also requires the VA to create a centralized source of information for all mental health services for Veterans. It will also address the shortage of mental health care professionals in order to ensure access to care as demand increases. Finally, through a pilot program, Veterans will receive reintegration assistance directly from the communities in which they live, fostering a smoother and more inclusive transition to life after the uniform. Just as these Veterans remained faithful to our country on the battlefield, it is our turn as their Representatives to remain faithful to them. When our service men and women make the brave decision to seek help, we must ensure that they can get the quality assistance and treatment they deserve in a timely manner. I urge all of the Members to support this legislation so that we can begin to turn the tide against suicide.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on November 17, 2014, on Roll Call #520 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5162--To amend the Act entitled ``An Act to allow a certain parcel of land in Rockingham County, Virginia, to be used for a child care center'' to remove the use restriction, and for other purposes, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 18, 2014, on Roll Call #521 on Ordering the Previous Question for H. Res. 756, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1422) EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4012) Secret Science Reform Act; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4795) Promoting New Manufacturing Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On November 18, 2014, on Roll Call #522 on H. Res. 756, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1422) EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4012) Secret Science Reform Act; and providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 4795) Promoting New Manufacturing Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On November 18, 2014, on Roll Call #523 on Agreeing to the Stewart of Utah Amendment to H.R. 1422, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On November 18, 2014, on Roll Call #524 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 1422, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 18, 2014, on Roll Call #525 on passage of H.R. 1422, the EPA Science Advisory Board Reform Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On November 19, 2014, on Roll Call #526 on Agreeing to the Kennedy Amendment to H.R. 4012, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 19, 2014, on Roll Call #527 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 4012. I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 19, 2014, on Roll Call #528 on passage of H.R. 4012, the Secret Science Reform Act of 2014, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present I would have voted NAY. On November 20, 2014, on Roll Call #529 on Agreeing to the Waxman Amendment to H.R. 4795, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 20, 2014, on Roll Call #530 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 4795, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 20, 2014, on Roll Call #531 on passage of H.R. 4795, the Promoting New Manufacturing Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, as a proud cosponsor of H.R. 647, the ABLE Act, I urge all of my colleagues to vote in favor of this legislation today. If enacted, it would allow Americans living with a disability and their families to establish tax-exempt financial accounts so they can finance qualified expenses including education, housing, transportation, employment support, medical care and other personal necessities. Critically, it would not jeopardize eligibility for other important federal benefits like Medicaid and Social Security. As a disabled American myself, I understand the financial strain a disability can have on individuals and their families. Not only do disabled Americans often face higher costs and lower incomes, but they are currently penalized for saving for their future. The ABLE Act will allow millions of Americans with disabilities to invest in their futures, live fulfilling lives and become more independent and less reliant on public benefits. It will empower them to build a better economic future for themselves and their families. Disabled Americans deserve every opportunity to achieve their dreams. I urge the House to pass this important legislation as quickly as possible.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on November 11, 2014, on Roll Call #516 on the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 4194-- Government Reports Elimination Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 12, 2014, on Roll Call #517 on H.Res. 748, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5682) to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY. On November 13, 2014, on Roll Call #518 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 5682, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA. On November 13, 2014, on Roll Call #519 on H.R. 5682, to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY.

Ms. DUCKWORTH

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, on November 11, 2014, on rollcall No. 516 on the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment to H.R. 4194-- Government Reports Elimination Act, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' On November 12, 2014, on rollcall No. 517 on H. Res. 748, providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5682) to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.'' On November 13, 2014, on rollcall No. 518 on the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 5682, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.'' On November 13, 2014, on rollcall No. 519 on H.R. 5682, to approve the Keystone XL Pipeline, I am not recorded because I was absent for medical reasons. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''