Debbie Dingell

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2271) to amend the Public Health Service Act to improve the health of children and help better understand and enhance awareness about unexpected sudden death in early life, as amended.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7574) to amend the Public Health Service Act with respect to the Strategic National Stockpile, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, it is time for the United States to focus on bringing the production back home. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Kathleen Lomako as she celebrates her retirement and recognize her many years of distinguished service with the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments. Her contributions to Michigan are worthy of commendation. Kathleen Lomako has dedicated much of her professional career to working in various positions at the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG). She joined SEMCOG in 1979, and quickly became a pillar of the organization. Since 2014, Lomako has served as executive director, where she has overseen a staff of 66 and has led SEMCOG's efforts to address a variety of multi-community, regional issues such as transportation, water quality, air quality, solid waste, land use, community and economic development, and data analysis. Beyond SEMCOG, Lomako has also been president of the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC), a nonprofit public/private partnership dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality and quality of life in Southeast Michigan. Kathleen Lomako has held several other leadership positions and is known throughout the community as a passionate leader who effects change. She was vice chair of the Michigan Infrastructure Council, chair of the Executive Director Council at the Association of Regional Councils, and served as board member, treasurer, and vice president of the Michigan Chapter of the American Planning Association. Lomako was president of the Heat and Warmth Fund, and has also sat on the boards of Inforum, the Urban Land Institute, and the Michigan Society of Association Executives. In addition, Lomako has been a fierce advocate for women, serving as a board member and officer with the Women's Economic Club and a board member with the Michigan Chapter of Women in Transportation. Without a doubt, Kathleen Lomako has devoted her career to serving Michigan and has worked tirelessly to ensure it remains a fruitful, safe, and prosperous place. Across all capacities, Lomako has been recognized as a dedicated, compassionate, and humble leader who strives to make a meaningful difference. She has been the voice of reason in challenging times and has encouraged all to work together to better our state. Her efforts have transformed Michigan, and her impact will forever be remembered. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the retirement of Kathleen Lomako. I am proud to honor her work, accomplishments, and significant community impact. We thank her for her outstanding service and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Patricia Lezotte Quick as she celebrates her 100th birthday. This significant milestone is worthy of commendation. Over the course of her lifetime, Patricia Quick has become a pillar of Rockwood. Patricia was born in the city on August 15, 2020, and remained in Rockwood for the next 96 years. As the only child of Edith and Eugene Lezotte, Patricia had a happy childhood playing with neighborhood friends, seeing movies, canoeing the Huron River, and taking the inter-urban trolley from Rockwood to downtown Detroit. After receiving her license at the age of 12, Patricia enjoyed driving her 1924 Hudson Super 6 to Detroit to shop at her favorite stores and occasionally treat herself to a famous Sander's hot fudge cream puff. Throughout her youth, Patricia attended Rockwood Elementary School, St. Mary's Catholic School, and Rockwood High School, where she sang in choir, played basketball, and studied Latin. She also took ballet lesson, and continued dancing throughout her 20s. At the age of 18, Patricia began working at the Rockwood Post Office. She rose to the position of assistant postmistress, and then served as superintendent of postal operations until retiring in 1981. In 1940, she also worked as a U.S. Census worker throughout Rockwood, Brandon Township, and Romulus. In 1943, Patricia married her husband, John Quick, and the two had an adventurous marriage for 73 years before John's passing in 2015. Together, they visited all 50 states, every Mexican state, and each Canadian province. Patricia is known for her optimistic attitude, love for nature and animals, and compassion for all. She has been active in animal rescue, her church, community service, and other civic organizations. Thanks to her immense knowledge of the city and love of history, Patricia was one of the founders of the Rockwood Area Historical Society in 1973 and continues to be a historian for the City of Rockwood. Throughout her 100 years, Patricia has demonstrated a true passion for our community and all those in it. Her impact has transformed the city, and we will forever be grateful for her years of dedicated service. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Patricia Lezotte Quick on her 100th birthday. I join with Patricia's friends in extending my best and warmest wishes to her on this special day. I am proud to honor her life, her accomplishments, and her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Harold Letinski. Mr. Letinski will forever be remembered for his unwavering dedication to the Downriver community, and he will be deeply missed. Over the course of 101 years, Harold Letinski watched the United States transform and witnessed the great challenges, hardships, and victories our nation endured. A Downriver native, Mr. Letinski grew up in the Delray neighborhood of Detroit. As a child in the Great Depression, he rose at 5 a.m, each morning to deliver papers and knocked coal off train cars to ensure families in his neighborhood could stay warm. After graduating from Southwestern High School in Detroit, Mr. Letinksi dutifully served his country with the Coast Guard during World War II. After the war, Harold Letinski returned to Michigan and committed himself to bettering his local community. Throughout his 20s, Mr. Letinski lived in Dearborn with his parents, but later moved to Allen Park after marrying his wife, Josephine, and started a family. He became the patriarch of two children, seven grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He worked for over three decades at the Ford Rouge Plant in the hot strip mill and was a founding member of the Father Saylor Knights of Columbus in Allen Park. He was a generous volunteer, and encouraged all to live a life of faith, kindness, and compassion. Among his friends and community, Mr. Letinski was known as a devoted family man who was gentle, kind, and loving. He rarely was upset, and always had a kind word to offer to others. Mr. Letinski's passing is a loss to our entire community, but his warm legacy will forever endure. He and his generation's contribution to progress will always be remembered, and his strength, faith, and perseverance though turbulent times provides a lasting example of what can be achieved when we all work together. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of Harold Letinski. We will forever remember his remarkable life, work, and community impact. May he rest in eternal peace.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, through the Civil War, the Spanish flu, the Great Depression, and two world wars, the United States Postal Service has not stopped. No matter the conditions--snow, rain, heat, or darkness--the dedicated men and women of the Postal Service have carried out their mission with pride. The Postal Service is one of the great pillars of our democracy. It is enshrined in the Constitution, and it is an essential service for so many. The actions by the Postmaster General in recent weeks is a sabotage campaign aimed at manipulating the mail service, but whatever the intent, it is hurting everyday Americans--seniors, veterans, and working men and women. In Michigan we have been told that just this month 10 mail sorting machines have been removed and destroyed. This American institution is being deliberately dismantled. It is not only an attack on the Postal Service, it is an attack on our Constitution, our way of life, and, yes, our democracy. My message is simple: protect the Postal Service and our Republic.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Famous Hamburger as it celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. Its years of service to the community are worthy of commendation. After returning to Beirut, Lebanon from the United States, Phillip Hider and his father developed the idea to start a burger joint in Lebanon. In 1968, they two opened their first restaurant called ``Little White Castle,'' which quickly transformed into a famous local favorite. After relocating to a new spot in Downtown Beirut, the decision was made to change the name to reflect its widespread popularity, resulting in the Famous Hamburger brand being officially established in 1970. Years later, Hider and his family chose to move to the United States to seek a better life and greater opportunity, and soon found themselves in Michigan in 1989. In March of 1997, Hider introduced the first Famous Hamburger in Detroit, and later relocated to a larger location in Dearborn in July of 2005. As in Lebanon, Famous Hamburger quickly became a beloved institution among the metro Detroit community. Today, it has locations spanning the region, such as Dearborn, Canton, and Auburn Hills. For half a century, Famous Hamburger has been cherished by people across both Lebanon and Michigan. In Dearborn, the restaurant has become a beloved community staple. Its welcoming environment, dedicated staff, and quality meals have drawn our community together, and its burgers are recognized as one of the best across Michigan. Many patrons are regulars who have frequented the restaurant for years, and even newcomers are made to feel like life-long friends. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the fiftieth anniversary of Famous Hamburgers have given our Dearborn community a reason to celebrate. It has provided a sense of comfort, unity, and normalcy in a time of unprecedented strife. Famous Hamburger's demonstrated commitment to serving Dearborn is immensely appreciated and is something we all should strive to emulate. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of Famous Hamburger. We are grateful for its years of dedicated service, and wish the restaurant continued success in the year ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the wonderful chair of the Appropriations Committee for yielding. I rise in support of en bloc 2, which includes an important amendment to block the Trump administration's latest attack on the National Environmental Policy Act. For 50 years, NEPA has both protected and fought for the environment and empowered local communities protecting them. In many cases, NEPA provides ordinary Americans the only opportunity to have a voice on major projects, including pipelines or extractive activity like oil and gas drilling that directly impacts their communities. The administration's new NEPA rule both limits the scope of environmental review and exempts entire categories of projects from review all together. Mr. Speaker, the administration's attack on NEPA prioritizes special interests and polluters ahead of the American people and our environmental heritage. I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc amendment and to block this assault on one of our Nation's bedrock environmental laws.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bipartisan en bloc amendment and three of my important amendments included in this package to address PFAS contamination. PFAS is a national health and environmental crisis. It is growing in scope every day, contaminating our air, water, and soil. Michigan has been hit hard. But yesterday, we led in setting the standard in the absence of Federal action. My main amendment will ensure that the administration cannot withdraw their decision issued in January to proceed with the national drinking water standard for PFO and PFOS. It will also prevent the administration from reversing its efforts to designate these notorious chemicals as hazardous substances under the Superfund program, which will kick-start the cleanup process at the most contaminated sites nationwide. This amendment doesn't go far enough, but it is a beginning to make sure we don't go backward in our efforts. I push all of my colleagues to join these efforts as cosponsors and thank Chair McCollum for her enduring leadership in this year's Interior appropriations bill.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Benjamin Franklin once famously said that those who would give up liberty for security deserve neither. My home, Dearborn, Michigan, is home to the largest population of Arab Americans in this country. They are constantly targeted very irrationally. Yet, Michigan, unfortunately, also lays claim to the Michigan Militia, which was responsible for one of the worst acts of terrorism in this country. Muslims, Arab Americans, are my neighbors. They are my friends. They are doctors, teachers, and pharmacists. They are part of this country. Policies like the Muslim travel ban have no place in the United States of America. It disrespects freedom of religion, and it is unconstitutional. National security experts have been clear that the Muslim ban has made our country less safe. In fact, strong national security policies include protecting the fundamental pillars of our democracy: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, compassion, and justice. We must stand together as Americans against unjust policies like this.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank my wonderful chairman. I rise in strong support of the Great American Outdoors Act. This historic legislation makes good on our commitment to preserve our Nation's environmental heritage for future generations. This is an emotional moment for me. It provides full permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, landmark conservation legislation that my late husband, John Dingell, wrote and helped establish in 1964. The LWCF funding has protected Michigan and the Nation's critical natural resources, while supporting local economies, creating jobs, and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the country. LWCF was permanently authorized in 2019 as part of the John D. Dingell, Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act but has received full funding only twice in its long history. The permanent full funding in this legislation is the culmination of decades of work by the conservation community; my late husband; and our wonderful current dean, Don Young, who first advocated for this permanent funding through the Conservation and Reinvestment Act in 1999. Additionally, the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Land Restoration Fund included in the legislation will allow us to finally address the $22 billion deferred maintenance backlog in our Nation's public lands, a decades-long problem in the making. I am proud today to stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to continue that Dingell conservation legacy--I don't look like the greatest outdoors girl, but I know how important they are--which represents the boldest, most comprehensive conservation effort in decades.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Holiday Grill Coney Island on its twenty-fifth anniversary. This wonderful milestone is worthy of commendation and celebration. Holiday Grill was founded in 1995 by John Mourselas. Twenty-five years later, Holiday Grill continues to be a cherished Dearborn institution that is beloved by many. Throughout the community, Holiday Grill is recognized for its delectable food, attentive and friendly staff, and welcoming ambiance that draws customers in and brings people together. Located in the heart of Dearborn, Holiday Grill has undoubtably become a pillar of the community. Many patrons are regulars who have frequented the restaurant for decades, and even newcomers are made to feel like lifelong friends. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the twenty-fifth anniversary of Holiday Grill has given our community a reason to celebrate. Holiday Grill has provided a sense of comfort, community, and normalcy in a time of unprecedented strife. Their demonstrated commitment to serving the community is immensely appreciated and is something we all should strive to emulate. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the twenty-fifth anniversary of Holiday Grill Coney Island in Dearborn, Michigan. Holiday Grill has been a community favorite for years, and we wish the restaurant continued success in the years ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden at the McFadden Ross House in Dearborn, Michigan. Rosie the Riveter is one of the most iconic images of female ingenuity, perseverance, and strength. As widespread male enlistment left gaping holes in the industrial labor force during World War II, the Rosie the Riveter campaign was launched to recruit female workers to join the wartime labor force and fill the gaps in male-dominated industries. The bandana-clad Rosie flashing her bicep quickly became one of the most successful recruiting tools in American history. Inspiring a ``We Can Do It!'' attitude among women across the country, the campaign prompted an estimated five million civilian women to enter the defense industry and commercial sector. Known as the ``Rosies,'' the powerful women produced airplanes, ammunitions, and warships on a massive scale. They worked as riveters, sanders, welders, assembly line workers, Red Cross volunteers, and so much more. The dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden exemplifies our community's continued admiration for the Rosies and how important they are to Michigan's story. As part of the Arsenal of Democracy, Southeastern Michigan became one of the greatest suppliers of airplanes, tanks, trucks, and weapons for the American war effort. The automotive industry quickly adapted to produce wartime supplies on an automotive-style assembly line, and the opening of the famous Willow Run Bomber Plant led to the impressive completion of one bomber per hour. Rosies working in factories throughout Michigan became the emblem for wartime production, and their hard work and efforts were crucial to America and its allies in winning the global conflict. The call for women to join the workforce during World War II was meant to be temporary. Yet, the Rosies' efforts shattered the glass ceiling for women in the labor force, and clearly demonstrated that women were capable, smart, and strong workers who could hold their own. Their impact revolutionized the workplace, and their example paved a path for generations of women to follow. They have become the ultimate symbol of female empowerment, and their legacy is one that will never be forgotten. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the dedication of the Rosie the Riveter Rose Garden. I am grateful for our community's commitment to honoring these amazing women and their contribution to progress. The beautiful, strong, and resilient roses will remind all of the remarkable Rosies who made victory possible and changed America forever.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the grand opening of the new Alderwish CPA, PLLC office in Dearborn, Michigan. Alderwish CPA, PLLC was formed by Ngeeb Alderwish, CPA in September 2008. In the years since, the company has been dedicated to providing a variety of quality tax and accounting services to people across Michigan. With a strong focus on community, Alderwish CPA strives to cultivate attentive and meaningful relationships with all clients to develop solutions that fit their unique personal and professional needs. Alderwish CPA is committed to the philosophy of building relationships one client at a time, and their promise of excellence is backed by years of experience in the financial sector. Throughout the community, Alderwish CPA is recognized as an exemplary institution. Under the leadership of Ngeeb Alderwish, the team of Alderwish CPA is composed of diligent, transparent, and honest tax professionals who are consistently commended for their knowledge and great expertise. The team goes above and beyond expectations and tirelessly works to support clients in all capacities. Without a doubt, Alderwish CPA has dedicated themselves to uplifting families and businesses throughout Dearborn and Detroit. Their services have assisted countless institutions across the community navigate complex tax and financial matters and have helped clients move forward with financial clarity and reassurance. Their continued work makes a difference. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the grand opening of Alderwish CPA, PLLC in its new Dearborn office. Alderwish CPA has become an invaluable resource for businesses and families across Dearborn and Detroit, and I am grateful for their work in supporting our local businesses. We wish them the best of luck in their new office location and continued success in the years ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Pastor Jerry Hatter as he celebrates his retirement from the pastoral ministry at Brown Chapel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. After a 23-year career at Ford Motor Company in finance and accounting, Pastor Jerry Hatter entered into the Christian ministry full time. In August 1991, Pastor Hatter was appointed to serve as the 43rd pastor of Brown Chapel AME Church by Bishop Haskell Mayo. In the years since, Pastor Hatter has led to the church to unimaginable new heights and has nurtured, supported, and welcomed the entire Ypsilanti religious community in his ministry. Under his spiritual leadership, Brown Chapel created the Daniel Payne Scholarship Fund, began a Child Care Ministry, established Brown Chapel Foundation, Inc., and partially sponsored a Habitat House, to name a few of the church's numerous accomplishments. Throughout the years, Pastor Hatter has also led Brown Chapel through some of its most incredible milestones, like the church's 150th and 175th anniversaries, and the completion of the new church edifice in 1999. Pastor Hatter uses his faith to support his local community. In the early 1990s, Pastor Hatter and Brown Chapel became one of Food Gatherer's first partners. Determined to battle hunger in Michigan, Pastor Hatter promoted thoughtful collaboration among his congregation to determine ways to address the root causes of food insecurity. Since, Pastor Hatter has been active in a variety of other outreach programs that uplift the underprivileged and give them the resources they need to lead healthy, fulfilling, and dignified lives. His passion for service even took him to India, where he embarked on a mission trip in 2013. To date, Pastor Hatter has held membership in several organizations and boards, including the Hope Clinic, SOS Community Services, Turner Geriatric Advisory Board, WCSO Ministerial Advisory Team, and Southeastern Michigan AME Minister's Alliance, and continues to seek out opportunities to help people navigate spiritual, emotional, or physical issues. Moreover, Pastor Hatter is mentor to many and particularly strives to assist younger generations in developing their relationships with the church and God. He is involved in the Mentor2Youth program that empowers youth to excel in life, academics, and work, and was honored by the organization for his tremendous accomplishments in the community. Among his friends, family, peers, and congregation, Pastor Jerry Hatter is recognized as a dedicated and spirited leader who humbly strives to make the world a better place. As the longest-serving pastor in Brown Chapel AME Church's history, Pastor Hatter has preached at a variety of prestigious celebrations across Michigan and implemented a number of successful faith-based programs. In times of divisiveness and strife, Pastor Hatter is been the voice of reason, and he has been an unwavering advocate of the entire religious community. Without a doubt, Pastor Hatter has demonstrated what a true servant of God should endeavor to be. He provides a clear example of selfless love and compassion that encourages others to life a life of purpose, integrity, and virtue. His commitment to the word of God has left a positive mark on Brown Chapel and the community beyond. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the retirement of Pastor Jerry Hatter from the pastoral ministry at Brown Chapel AME Church. In addition to being a faithful leader, Pastor Hatter was a friend who was deeply valued, cherished, and respected by John Dingell. His devotion to God continues to make a difference, and his legacy at Brown Chapel AME Church is one that will never be forgotten. Although we are sad to see him go, we are all grateful for his years of service, his extraordinary work, and his significant community impact.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Oregon for yielding. I rise in strong support of this en bloc, which includes an important bipartisan natural infrastructure amendment that adds H.R. 3742, the Recovering America's Wildlife Act to H.R. 2. When we talk about infrastructure, natural infrastructure, habitat restoration and resilience projects must be part of the conversation. Such investments not only create jobs, up to 33 created per $1 million of investment, but they make communities safer. They grow our outdoor recreation economy. And they help recover at-risk wildlife populations. This amendment will enable States, territories, and Tribes to complete proactive collaborative on-the-ground habitat restoration and the natural infrastructure projects that will recover more than 12,000 wildlife, fish, and plant species of the greatest conservation need. This amendment is modeled after legislation that has more than 180 bipartisan cosponsors, and it passed out of the Natural Resources Committee with a majority of both Republicans and Democrats. I thank my colleagues, Representatives Fortenberry and Raskin for coleading this amendment, as well as everybody who helped get us here today, including Speaker Pelosi, Leader Hoyer, Whip Clyburn, my dear friend, the chairman leading all of this, Chairman McGovern, Chairman Grijalva, the Natural Resources Committee staff, and the entire RAWA coalition. I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc and to support this bill. The country needs it.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this en bloc, which includes an important amendment that I have championed that would establish a clean energy and sustainability accelerator to both meet the climate crisis head-on, while building the infrastructure of tomorrow. As an independent nonprofit that is capitalized with $20 billion of Federal funds spread over a 6-year period, the accelerator will help bolster and expand a robust clean energy workforce, create jobs, deploy emissions reduction technologies, and invest in low-carbon infrastructure projects nationwide. It would provide crucial seed investment to build clean energy infrastructure that will put millions back to work, strengthen communities, improve public health for generations, while reducing pollution, lowering energy costs, and specifically reducing harmful greenhouse emissions. I am proud to lead this amendment, and I thank Chairman Pallone, the leadership of the House, and the Energy and Commerce Committee staff for all the work they have done to get it here. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act. I want to thank Speaker Pelosi and Chairman DeFazio for their outstanding leadership. The time is now to rebuild America. Investing in our Nation's infrastructure is bigger than just mending our roads, bridges, and airports. It will mean a boost to future manufacturing. It will create good-paying jobs. It will transition our Nation to a clean energy economy and will build the infrastructure for those electric vehicles we need to put on the road to be globally competitive and put us on track for robust future growth. Over the next decade, we have to seize this opportunity, and we must seize it for every community across the country, urban, suburban, and rural alike. This bill is designed to rebuild communities that are smarter, safer, and made to last. And with American grit and ingenuity, we can accomplish this and more. I am proud that a number of provisions that I have championed are included in this legislation. I urge all of my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats, to support this important bill and come together. The American people have sent us here to find common ground on the toughest issues for all future generations to prosper. And as my Governor says: ``Fix the damn roads.''

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act. And, yes, I agree with my colleagues, this is not the time for partisan politics. It has been over 10 years since the passage of the historic Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which expanded healthcare to 20 million Americans. And now this administration is at the Supreme Court trying to repeal it, and it has been 4 years since our colleagues, who say they will protect people, have done anything. They have not given us anything else. All they do is take knocks. Many forget that when that bill passed the reforms ended lifetime limits. People could not get health insurance if they couldn't afford it, if they had pre-existing conditions. It allowed States to expand Medicaid and provide access to both quality, affordable healthcare and protection from crippling medical bills. In my home State, the bipartisan expansion under Governor Rick Snyder, a Republican Governor, Healthy Michigan, currently covers 650,000 Michiganders, and supports rural hospitals in Michigan that would otherwise face a significant financial hardship. The reforms in today's bill, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act, build on these successes. The legislation would reduce healthcare premiums for Americans by expanding existing subsidies under the Affordable Care Act to those that need the help. It would also support outreach and enrollment efforts and roll back the current administration's plans to promote junk insurance plans that lack the coverage of basic benefits. Finally, it would save Americans billions of dollars annually by allowing the Secretary of Health and Human Services, a Republican right now, to negotiate drug prices. The Congressional Budget Office also estimates that the drugs subject to negotiation would reduce prices by 55 percent. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Jeffrey L. Curtis as he receives the 2019 John B. Barnwell Award. Dr. Curtis's commitment to advancing the healthcare of our nation's veterans is worthy of commendation. After receiving his medical degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine, Dr. Curtis completed his clinical residency at the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center and spent two years as a Clinical Immunology Fellow at the National Institute on Aging, NIH. Following residency, Dr. Curtis trained in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine (PCCM) at the University of California San Francisco, where he joined the faculty at the San Francisco VA. Dr. Curtis continued his work with veterans at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, where he served as Chief in the PCCM Section and as scientific director of a Research Enhancement Award Program center in tobacco-induced lung diseases. Dr. Curtis has held leadership roles in several COPD trials and continues to lead groundbreaking research efforts, including the ongoing SPIROMICS and COPDGene studies. Furthermore, Dr. Curtis is the Associate Editor of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, is the past-Chair of the American Thoracic Scientific Assembly on Allergy, Immunology, and Inflammation, and is a current professor at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. Receiving the prestigious John B. Barnwell Award exemplifies Dr. Curtis's continued commitment to scientific discovery and improving health outcomes for our nation's veterans. The award, which represents the Clinical Science Research and Development Service's highest honor within the Department of Veterans Affairs, recognizes senior VHA investigators who have achieved international acclaim for their clinical research accomplishments and have led clinical research endeavors that have advanced the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders in the veteran population. Undoubtably, Dr. Curtis is a deserving recipient of this award. He is internationally recognized as a leading researcher in the field of pulmonary disease and has led a number of major clinical trials and programs that have advanced the study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other lung disorders. Dr. Curtis has dedicated his career to clinical research and continues to transform the quality of care for veterans nationwide. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Jeffrey Curtis as he receives the John B. Barnwell Award. We thank him for his meaningful work and wish him continued success in the years ahead.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Scott Menzel for his years of distinguished service to students in Michigan and offer my heartfelt congratulations as he begins a new chapter as superintendent for the Scottsdale Unified School District in Arizona. Although we are all sad to see him go, we are proud to celebrate his outstanding contributions to the Washtenaw Intermediate School District. In 2011, Dr. Scott Menzel became the superintendent of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) and started his tenure at a pivotal moment in the community's history. In 2012, Willow Run and Ypsilanti schools began the consolidation process to form a new district. The consolidation, which many thought to be impossible, came to fruition thanks to the support of the WISD and Menzel's tenacity, hard work, and commitment to education. Prior to his work in the WISD, Menzel served as superintendent for Whitmer Lake Public Schools from 2002 to 2007. Later, Menzel led similar operations at the Livingston Educational Service Agency from 2007 to 2011. Throughout all capacities, Menzel has been recognized as a humble leader who strives to make a lasting and meaningful difference in students' lives. He dedicates himself to causes he believes in, and encourages others to demonstrate compassion, service, and excellence. Undoubtably, Menzel's passion for education and academic opportunity have left a profound impact on the school district, evident in the recent passing of a bond proposal that will help construct a new $53.2 million school for special-needs students outside of Ann Arbor. Moreover, Menzel's focus on addressing racial disparities and promoting racial equity throughout the district has set a clear example for other districts to emulate. He has been an avid proponent of My Brother's Keeper, an initiative created under the Obama Administration to address persistent opportunity gaps facing young boys and young men of color, and his involvement has helped the program flourish and grow throughout Michigan. He has received numerous honors and accolades for his work including the National African American Parent Involvement Day Spirit Award, the MASA Regional Superintendent of the Year Award, and the White House YMCA Champion for Change Award, among a host of others. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Scott Menzel. Menzel has helped students develop skills and gain confidence not only needed to succeed academically, but in life beyond the classroom. He has impacted their futures in profound ways, and we are all grateful for his commitment to his students, his district, and his community. We thank him for his service to students in Michigan and wish him the best of luck in Arizona.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Battalion Chief David Lambrix as he celebrates his retirement and recognize his many years of distinguished service with the Dearborn Fire Department. His contributions to the community are worthy of commendation. Battalion Chief David Lambrix joined the Dearborn Fire Department as a firefighter on September 6th, 1994. Throughout his twenty-five years with the force, Lambrix rose through the ranks of firefighter, fire lieutenant, and captain. In 2017, Lambrix was promoted to battalion chief, and has held the position ever since. Among his friends, colleagues, and peers, Lambrix is recognized as a humble leader who strives to make a difference without seeking praise or recognition for any of his significant accomplishments. Prior to his career with the fire department, David Lambrix dutifully served his country. He served as an EM2 in the U.S. Navy from 1984 to 1988 in Alamenda, California. Without a doubt, Lambrix understands what it means to be an active and loyal community member. He devotes himself to causes he believes in and has made a difference in all the lives he has touched. Lambrix has received numerous honors and accolades for his outstanding work including the Fire Chief Life Saving Award, the Perfect Attendance Award, and the Meritorious Service Award, among a host of others. Most recently, Lambrix was bestowed the John D. Dingell Medal of Freedom Memorial Commendation in 2019 for his dedicated career in public service and commitment to Dearborn. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the retirement of Battalion Chief David Lambrix from the Dearborn Fire Department. I am proud to honor his work, accomplishments, and significant community impact. We thank him for his outstanding service and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.

Mrs. DINGELL

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Lucille Grewe as she celebrates her 108th birthday on Tuesday, June 2nd, 2020. This significant milestone is worthy of commendation. Lucille Grewe was born in 1912 and grew up in the small town of Buckner, Illinois. As the third of five children born to Ernst and Bertha Grewe, Lucille fondly remembers playing outside with her family and walking with her siblings to deliver coffee and a lunch bucket to her father during his lunch break at the mines. Throughout her life, Lucille has experienced a tremendous amount of change. She grew up in simpler times without telephones, few automobiles, and limited women's rights, and she has been a witness to some of America's most defining and challenging moments. At the young age of three, Lucille remembers watching her cousin from her back porch as he walked off to serve in World War I. Several years later, she lived through the ratification of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. By the 1930s, Lucille worked alongside her mother and siblings on a family farm, raising livestock and harvesting crops, to help her family endure the difficulties of the Great Depression. When Lucille was in her 20s, she followed her older sister Alma to Detroit, Michigan. She found a job at Briggs Automotive working on car bodies at the Mack Avenue Plant, where she earned 40 cents an hour. After the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Lucille stepped up to America's call. She was transferred to Brigg's Connor Avenue Plant to work as a riveter on Boeing B-17 wings for the duration of World War II until 1946. As a Rosie the Riveter, Lucille's hard work, grit, and patriotism not only sustained the American war effort, but paved a path for generations of working women to follow. After the war, Lucille returned to the Mack Avenue Plant to work on car bodies once more. She remained with the company through its transition to Chrysler, and finally retired in 1971 at the age of 59. Since retirement, Lucille has taken up a number of hobbies including swimming, bowling, and traveling. Today, she enjoys playing cards, specifically pinochle, and spending time with her friends. Lucille is known for her great attitude, sense of humor, and enthusiasm. She has been both an inspiration and a mentor to many, and she continues to live a fruitful life. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Lucille Dorothy Grewe on her 108th birthday. I join with Lucille's family and friends in extending my best and warmest wishes to her on this special day. I am proud to honor her life, her accomplishments, and her invaluable contributions to our nation.