Tom Emmer

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I stand today in defense of innocent life. My wife Jacquie and I are blessed with seven wonderful children, each with their own unique gifts that they bring to the world. I am and always have been pro-life. I am also opposed to Federal funding of abortion. On January 6, the House sent the Restoring Americans' Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act to the President's desk. This bill would have made Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion provider in the United States, ineligible for much of the Federal funding it receives, instead reallocating those funds to provide for other women's health centers. Unfortunately, the President put politics ahead of policy and vetoed the bill. The fight is far from over. This year on the 43rd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, I join many Americans in mourning the death of the more than 56 million babies who have been lost. The bill passed by Congress is proof the American public is determined now more than ever to maintain the standard and principle that every life is precious and must be protected.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Oliver Kelley, who was born on this day in 1826. Kelley, a native Bostonian, realized that Minnesota was a land of great opportunity and moved there in 1849. Although he had no experience farming, Kelley became a ``book farmer'' and everything that he first learned about agriculture, he got from reading. Kelley's thirst for knowledge, great intuition, and progressive methods allowed his farm in Elk River to thrive. In 1864, Kelley became a clerk for the U.S. Bureau of Agriculture. Through his work, he recognized the importance of agriculture to our Nation and, in 1867, helped found the National Grange, a society and advocacy group for rural America. Oliver Kelley's role in agriculture led to his induction into the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in 2006. The Kelley farm remains an important part of our community. Today, it is a historical property that teaches thousands of Minnesota school kids about agriculture. Minnesotans are certainly grateful for Kelley's efforts, which have largely contributed to agricultural success in our country, and we are proud to have his legacy maintained in Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Deputy Jessica Slavik from the Anoka County Sheriff's Department who has recently been named the 2015 Deputy of the Year by the Minnesota Sheriffs' Association. Jessica has worked for the Anoka County Sheriff's Office for 8 years, serving in the jail division, patrol division, court security unit, and currently as a deputy in the crime scene unit. From staff within her department to jurors, the county attorney's office, and even a judge presiding over a case she worked on, there is no lack of praise for Deputy Slavik. Anoka County Sheriff James Stuart says: ``Deputy Jessica Slavik exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond and embraces her role as an ambassador in our communities.'' We are proud to have a leader like Jessica in the Anoka community. Her work is invaluable to the safety of the people of Minnesota's Sixth District, and for that we are sincerely grateful. Thank you, Deputy Slavik. Keep up the excellent work.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Anderson Trucking Service for their impressive 60 years of business. The founder of Anderson Trucking, Harold Anderson, grew up in the transportation industry and began hauling granite with his father. In those early years, Harold developed a strong interest in machinery and driving. So it was no surprise when he chose to pursue a career in trucking. Harold officially started Anderson Trucking Service after he returned home from World War II. The company is now run by Harold's sons, Rollie and Jim, as well as his grandsons, Brent and Scott. Over the years, Anderson Trucking has grown and prospered, but the Anderson family has never forgotten their roots. The company and the Anderson family represent the best St. Cloud and central Minnesota have to offer. The customer service of Anderson Trucking is only matched by the community service provided by the Andersons and their great employees. Today Anderson Trucking has thousands of rigs, hundreds of drivers, and has driven millions of miles. The Andersons, however, do not just measure success by the number of miles driven or the number of deliveries made, but also by the high level of the customer service that the company provides. For the past 6 decades, this international transportation company has successfully and safely delivered freight to their valued customers. We look forward to seeing the continued success of Anderson Trucking for this generation and generations to come. Congratulations on your first 60 years. Preferred Credit, Inc., Embodies Minnesota Nice

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss overregulation. Chair of the Federal Reserve, Janet Yellen, recently said that small community banks really are suffering from regulatory overload. I absolutely agree. Community banks and credit unions are struggling with excessive and overly burdensome regulation. Today 17 of my colleagues on the House Financial Services Committee and I sent a letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, better known as the CFPB, regarding the most recent addition to the pile of regulations harming consumers and community financial institutions, the newly revised Regulation C. Regulation C requires most banks and credit unions to collect new personal data on loan applications beginning January 1, 2018. This regulation essentially doubles the current requirements triggered by Dodd-Frank. The CFPB, without adequate justification of need, now wants personal information, including business or commercial information, property values, property addresses, credit scores, and interest rates. This appears to be a government agency fishing expedition that should raise serious concerns relating to our personal privacy and liberties. This significantly higher regulatory hurdle means community financial institutions will have to allocate more of their limited resources to deal with Washington's red tape, rather than providing loans to families and businesses in Minnesota. It is my hope that the CFPB will exempt small community financial institutions from this new burden, or we will have to work to draft legislation that will help our small community banks in Minnesota because, as I often say, Mr. Speaker, what is good for Minnesota is good for America.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Preferred Credit, Inc., of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for winning a Torch Award for Ethics from the Minnesota Better Business Bureau. Preferred Credit was established in St. Cloud in 1982 and quickly realized their goal of becoming one of the preferred finance companies for the direct sales industry throughout the United States. This outstanding Minnesota company accomplished this goal by giving their clients the best possible customer service and building strong, personal relationships. The way Preferred Credit achieves success is evidence of how deserving they are of this award. The Torch Awards are meant to recognize companies that go above and beyond for their customers, employees, vendors, and community. I would like to congratulate Preferred Credit, Incorporated, for receiving this prestigious award and for representing what Minnesota is all about. Thank you for everything you have contributed to the St. Cloud community and to the great State of Minnesota. We would not be where we are today without great businesses like yours. The Backbone of Minnesota Small Business and America

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 74th anniversary of Pearl Harbor and to honor all Minnesotans and all Americans who served in World War II. I would like to recognize the service of one Minnesota family in particular. In 1885, Carl Nolte moved to Martin County, Minnesota, with his wife, Louise. They had 12 children and numerous grandchildren. An impressive 36 members of the Nolte family joined the Armed Forces and served in World War II. Fortunately, all 36 family members survived the war. However, two were wounded during their service. It is often said that those who served in World War II belong to the Greatest Generation. I believe that the heroism and the dedication that this family demonstrated proves this to be true. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank this Minnesota family for their service to our Nation, and I would also like to wish one of them a very happy birthday. This week Loren Wessel of Truman, Minnesota, turns 96 years old. Happy birthday, Loren.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor all Minnesotans, and all Americans, who served in World War II, and I would like to recognize the service of one Minnesota family in particular. In 1885, Carl Nolte moved to Martin County, Minnesota with his wife Louise. They had twelve children and numerous grandchildren. Many years after the Nolte family first came to Minnesota; an impressive thirty-six members of the family joined the armed forces and served in World War II. Fortunately, all thirty-six family members survived the war. However, both Earle Nolte, son of Fred Nolte, and Reinhardt Wessel, son of Amanda Nolte Wessel, were wounded during their service. It is often said that those who served in World War II belong to the ``Greatest Generation.'' I believe that the heroism and the dedication that this family demonstrated prove this to be true. I would like to thank this family for their service to our nation and I would also like to wish one of them a very happy birthday. This week, Loren Wessel of Truman, Minnesota, turned ninety-six years old. Happy Birthday Loren.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, to realize their American Dream, many Minnesotans rely on access to financial products like business loans and mortgages. Not only do these financial instruments benefit individuals and families, but they help build healthy communities. Unfortunately, in some rural and urban areas, outdated regulations threaten the ability of our community banks to offer these important financial products. Together with Congresswoman Gwen Moore, I have introduced legislation that will address this problem. H.R. 4116 allows certain community banks to trade large bank deposits over a secure network. This will enable depositors to do business with local community banks while still maintaining FDIC insurance instead of seeing important and necessary financial capital that could be used for local projects, purchases, and investment leave local communities. Mr. Speaker, this legislation is good for Minnesota. And please forgive my bias, but I happen to believe what is good for Minnesota is good for our country.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Andrea ``Andy'' Voight for her dedicated service as a nurse in the St. Cloud Community. For Andrea, nursing was much more than a job; it was a family tradition and way of life. Along with her two sisters, Andrea followed in her mother Rita's footsteps to pursue the noble career of nursing. After graduating from the Miller Hospital Vocational School of Practical Nursing in St. Paul, she returned to St. Cloud to officially begin her career at St. Cloud Hospital where she remained for an impressive 26 years. Andrea says what kept her working for so long was the connections that she is able to make with people. Andrea embodied what it truly means to care for others, as she says that she ``truly appreciated watching her surgical patients make it to discharge.'' Forty-six years and five children later, Andrea made the decision to retire. When asked what she hopes to pursue next, Andrea says that she would like to travel and spend more time attending her grandchildren's events. Andrea, our community is so thankful for all that you have done, and I wish you a happy and peaceful retirement with your family.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the 3M Company, a great Minnesota business, for recently being named one of the top 100 innovative organizations for the fifth consecutive year by Thomson Reuters in their fifth annual list of Top 100 Global Innovators. Originally known as Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, 3M started out as a small-scale mining company in northern Minnesota. However, mining turned out to be an unsuccessful venture, causing the company to suffer. Instead of accepting defeat, the company embraced a pioneering spirit and began to invent and produce other products. More than a century later, 3M has evolved into a multinational company that produces more than 65,000 products which are used all over the world. Among the many products created, the Post-it Note and Scotch Tape remain among the most well-known. As of today, one-third of 3M's sales come from products that were invented within the past 5 years, making it clear that this company defines American creativity and innovation. Congratulations, 3M, and here is to another century of accomplishment. Dr. Bittman--Improving Future Generations

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Alzheimer's Awareness Month, I would like to bring attention to a disease that is all too prevalent in our country. Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, and today, approximately 5.3 million Americans are living with this disease. To put it in perspective, that is the same as the population of the State of Minnesota. Alzheimer's is a cruel disease that knows no limits. From the 30- year-old mother of three young ones who is suffering from early onset Alzheimer's to the elderly grandfather who fails to recognize his loved ones, this is a disease that is devastating families across our country. Unfortunately, statistics show that Alzheimer's rates are rapidly increasing. In fact, by 2050, the number of people age 65 years or older with Alzheimer's is estimated to triple. Mr. Speaker, at this point in time, Alzheimer's cannot be prevented or cured, which is why we must work harder to ensure that one day life without the risk of Alzheimer's can become a reality.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, in honor of National Diabetes Month, I rise today to voice my concern for this disease that is plaguing our Nation. Statistics show that nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States are currently living with diabetes. In my home State of Minnesota, more than 8 percent of adults have been diagnosed with this difficult and dangerous disease. As if these harrowing statistics are not concerning enough, studies show that type 2 diabetes will continue to grow at widespread rates and that the future cost of diabetes will increase. In other words, our diabetes problem and the associated costs are going to get worse. This disease can often be prevented. While genetics play a role in developing diabetes, diet and exercise play a role in the development as well. If we eat better and exercise--in short, if we live healthy lifestyles--many of us can prevent the onset of diabetes. So I urge my colleagues here in Congress to join me in raising awareness for diabetes. If we all put in the effort, I believe that our country can overcome this epidemic. Alzheimer's Awareness Month

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of Minnesota's finest educators, Dr. Daniel Bittman. Dr. Bittman has been the superintendent of Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools since 2010 and this year has been named Superintendent of the Year by the Minnesota Association of School Administrators. Dr. Bittman earned both a master's and doctorate of education from the University of Nevada, and has been working in education in Minnesota for more than 20 years. As a result of his continued efforts and leadership, the students of Sauk Rapids-Rice schools are now performing at a higher level than ever before and thriving within a more engaged and supportive community. Our children are the future of this country, and Dr. Bittman's dedication to his students shows that our future is bright. Dr. Bittman, thank you for all you have done for our children and our communities and for all you will do in the future. Congratulations on being named Superintendent of the Year. You deserve it. National Diabetes Month

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the much-needed Fed Oversight Reform and Modernization Act. Minnesotans, like Robert from Becker and Kevin from Elk River, are correct in that the Fed is an ineffective and isolated government bureaucracy that is out of touch with the common man and the long-term needs of the American people. Yes, quantitative easing may have been a boon for a few. However, three rounds of this reckless tactic have inflated the Fed's balance sheet to more than $4.5 trillion, threatening the economic stability of our Nation and the American Dream for many. Equally problematic is the secrecy surrounding the Fed's discount window operations, open market operations, and agreements with foreign governments, which prevent market actors from knowing the information they need in order to prudently invest in the future. In the past, Congressman Ron Paul led the charge against the Fed with his Audit the Fed bill. Today we are building upon his legacy legislation. I would like to thank my colleague, Congressman Huizenga, for introducing the Fed Oversight Reform and Modernization Act. Not only does this new legislation include Audit the Fed, but it also requires the Fed establish a monetary policy rule that will enable us to have a better idea of where the Fed is likely to move monetary policy. Additionally, the bill limits taxpayers' exposure to bailouts by responsibly tightening the Fed's emergency lending authority. Furthermore, this bill requires the Fed, before implementing any rule, to conduct a cost-benefit analysis. This will give the American people a true sense of the economic impact any Fed proposal will have. It would also mandate the Fed, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Treasury to disclose any positions they plan to take at international regulatory negotiations, enabling the American people and Congress to weigh in on international regulations that often adversely impact American business. Finally, this legislation would clarify the Federal Open Market Committee blackout period, mandate the Fed to disclose employees' salaries, require the Chair of the Fed to participate in congressional hearings quarterly, and give more power to local district Fed Bank presidents over open market operations. I understand that many of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle may be skeptical about reforming the Fed. However, it is important to remember that this legislation only enhances oversight, communication, and transparency. This legislation will in no way take away the Federal Reserve's control of monetary policy, but it will provide us the tools to ensure that sound policies are enacted. Mr. Chairman, again I thank Mr. Huizenga and Chairman Hensarling for their work on this bill. I encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of the Fed Oversight Reform and Modernization Act.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. I thank the gentleman from Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act of 2015. Minnesota is a proud home to seven Ojibwe reservations and four Dakota communities. We have a strong and deep Native American history and are proud of the work we have accomplished through centuries of working together. The Federal Government has long recognized that Native American tribes have the capacity and ability to govern themselves in an efficient and meaningful manner that is consistent with their heritage. The legislation being discussed today is of grave importance to the communities that have contributed so much to our Nation's history. The intent of the National Labor Rights Act passed in 1935 was never to include tribal governments within its jurisdiction. It is unfortunate that some are seeking to take advantage of a once well- intended law, but it is now up to Congress to do the right thing and expressly clarify that tribal governments are exempt from the National Labor Relations Act.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Linda Chmielewski from St. Cloud for receiving a 2015 Nurse of the Year award from the Minnesota March of Dimes. Linda, who is the vice president and chief nursing officer at St. Cloud Hospital--CentraCare Health, was named a recipient of the leadership award. She has effectively overseen the hospital's nursing department and ensures that her patients receive quality care, making her fully deserving of this award. This is not the first time that Linda has been recognized for exemplary work. In 2014, she was honored by the Women's Health Leadership Trust, again, for her leadership in the healthcare field. Nursing is a noble profession. We have all been cared for by a nurse, so we all know they go to great lengths for their patients. Without caring individuals like Linda, our healthcare system would suffer. So it is an honor to recognize her and all nurses for their service. Linda, thank you for your hard work and dedication to our community.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, since this Congress was sworn in last January, I have received more calls and emails and I have had more meetings with constituents and consumers of financial services about the Department of Labor's proposed fiduciary rule than perhaps any other issue that has faced us in Congress. Why? Because the Department of Labor's proposed fiduciary rule, if it is ever fully implemented, will actually harm the very people that it is purported to protect, middle- and low-income investors. Mr. Speaker, I came to Washington to fight against out-of-control, top-down government bureaucracies, and this DOL rule is their latest mad creation. We should look for ways to increase access to affordable, transparent, and high-growth financial products that meet the needs of all Americans, not limit them. According to a recent study by Oliver Wyman, an international management consulting firm, the proposed rule will increase costs for investors by an average of 73 percent. This increase will harm the ability of millions of Americans to get professional financial advice. This is particularly disturbing, considering research shows that assistance from a financial professional consistently leads to better retirement planning. For example, according to the same report: Advised individuals aged 35 to 54 years making less than $100,000 per year had 51 percent more assets than similar nonadvised investors. Nearly 60,000 of my constituents make a living supporting the financial services industry. How does this rule help them or the people they assist? I recently heard from a financial adviser in my district, Ken, from Blaine, Minnesota, who told me that this DOL rule is a solution in search of a problem and that it will adversely affect his clients. Hardworking Minnesotans are gravely concerned that this rule will cause many financial advisers to severely limit the types of products that customers want, need, and desire or, even worse, it will force advisers out of the business. I thank our friend, Mrs. Wagner, for her leadership on this issue. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to protect middle- and low-income investors by supporting the Retail Investor Protection Act.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember fallen Deputy Steven Sandberg, who was shot and killed in the line of duty this past Sunday in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Deputy Sandberg's death was both senseless and tragic, but we must remember him for the heroic way he chose to live his life. Deputy Sandberg was an honorable man who served his community for 24 years. He began working for the Aitkin County Sheriff's Office in 1991 and worked as an investigator for the past 20 years. Every day for more than two decades Deputy Sandberg put his life on the line to protect others, and we will be forever grateful for his service. Our community has suffered a major loss, and we will never forget what this exceptional man has done for us. Our thoughts and prayers are with Steven's wife Kristi and daughter Cassie as well as his many friends and colleagues during this difficult time.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remind us of the importance of the month of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Like any disease that affects people regardless of race, color, creed, or their status in society, cancer not only tests the mental and physical strength of the person fighting the disease, it has a deep and lasting impact on family, friends, and communities. Currently, more than 100 different types of cancer exist, but, in my humble opinion, none is more wicked than breast cancer. This is most likely because breast cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers among women. In fact, one in eight women in America will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Breast cancer can be a cruel disease. It tears mothers from their children, wives from their husbands, and daughters from their parents. In 2015, it is anticipated that, in our country alone, more than 40,000 women will die from breast cancer. While women are most at risk, we must remember that this disease does not just affect women; while less common in the United States, 2,350 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. In the past 20 years, there have been incredible advances in the research and medicine surrounding breast cancer, but there is much left to be done. We can't rest until we can prevent or cure this horrible disease. Again, we have already made huge strides in the fight against breast cancer. Death rates due to breast cancer have been declining since 1989, and women younger than 50 are now less likely to get breast cancer than ever before. This is largely due to the awareness that has been raised on the importance of self-exams and yearly doctor physicals. However, currently, 29 percent of insured women are still not receiving mammograms; and for women without health insurance, the percentage is even higher, with 68 percent not receiving mammograms. It is extremely important that we continue to place an emphasis on early detection so that we can catch this disease as early as possible and have the best shot at beating it. While there are factors like genetics and age that can make someone more susceptible to the disease, breast cancer does not discriminate against education, upbringing, or wealth. From CEOs in New York City to a stay-at-home mom in small town Minnesota, this disease knows no bounds. I expect that just about everyone who walks these halls and too many to count across our country have been impacted by breast cancer in some way. I am no exception. Fifteen years ago, I lost my sister, Bridget, to breast cancer. Bridget was only 38 years old when she left us. She left behind two beautiful daughters and a husband who loved her. While her life was a lesson on how to get the most out of each second of every minute of every hour and every day, there is not a day that goes by when I don't wish there could have been a cure for her. For those who have experienced personal loss and pain from breast cancer, and for everyone who is fighting this disease, we join with you this month not only to raise awareness about breast cancer but to sound a call to action, to strengthen our resolve, and to eradicate this disease once and for all. In Congress, we can absolutely play a role in this effort. To the extent possible within our constitutional authority, we can and should encourage further advancement of medical research. I am proud to be a cosponsor of the Accelerating the End of Breast Cancer Act of 2015, which will establish a commission to work to defeat this disease. The commission will consist of experts in cancer research who will work to identify opportunities and ideas to advance our quest to prevent and cure breast cancer for future generations. October is a month to raise awareness. We have made progress, and we are making progress in our fight against this unforgiving disease. Let us use this month to rededicate ourselves to our shared goal of eradicating breast cancer once and for all.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the College of Saint Benedict in Collegeville, Minnesota. This college has a stellar reputation throughout the state of Minnesota, and for good reason. It was recently announced that the College of Saint Benedict is a recipient of a National Science Foundation award for their collaboration in a project entitled ``Collaborative Research: Developing and Assessing Effective Cyberlearning within the STEM Wiki Hyperlibrary.'' As a result of receiving this prestigious award, the college will receive $25,484 dollars. While many things remain uncertain in this world, one does not. Science, mathematics and technology are keys to the future. It is so critical that colleges and universities throughout the United States place a strong emphasis on these fields so that our country can continue to evolve, succeed and remain competitive in this constantly developing world. That is why I want to commend the College of Saint Benedict here, today. The emphasis put on science, mathematics and technology is evident by receipt of this award. I thank the College of Saint Benedict for motivating students to look towards the future and do what is best for Minnesota, and the United States as a whole.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert Hautman of Delano, Minnesota on his impressive second place finish in the 2015 Federal Duck Stamp Contest. Robert's stamp features several mallard ducks flying over a lake. The Federal Duck Stamp contest began in 1949 as a result of growing concern among Americans over the destruction of wetlands, which are the home to migratory waterfowl. Of every dollar spent on duck stamps, ninety-eight cents is given to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund, which helps to conserve natural habitats. Minnesota is home to some of the most amazing natural scenery and wildlife, and because of this, I am incredibly passionate about the great outdoors. I have always been of the strong belief that it is every global citizen's duty to help protect and maintain our environment for future generations to come. I think the Federal Duck Stamp contest is wonderful because it does exactly that. I would like to applaud Robert Hautman for contributing to a contest with such a worthy cause. I would like to give him an extra shout out for being from my hometown as well. As a result of Robert's effort, more funds will be raised to preserve the environment, and for that we--and our future generations--thank you.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor State Senator Branden Petersen of Andover for his public service. Branden was elected to the Minnesota House in 2010 at the young age of 24 and then reelected to serve his constituents, but this time in the Minnesota Senate in 2012. Recently, Branden resigned to spend more time with his young family. His leadership in the Minnesota Legislature will be sorely missed. Branden represents portions of my district, and I have been honored to work with him and to know him. He is a man of great character and principle. While in office, Branden worked hard to improve Minnesota's schools, economy, and budget, all while being part of a growing family that now includes three little ones at home. It has been wonderful to see Branden's dedication over the past 5 years, and I believe that the people of his district are so lucky to have benefited from his service. Branden's leadership will be truly missed, but I have no doubt that he will find success and happiness in his future endeavors. Enjoy your time with your family, Senator. You deserve it. Manufacturing Day 2015

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Marco, Inc., of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for making Fortune's list of best small- and medium-sized companies to work for. Marco has an incredible story and is proof that the American Dream is alive and well. What began as a small typewriter shop in St. Cloud quickly evolved into one of the top technology providers in the country, with offices located throughout the Midwest. However, what truly stands out about Marco is that they are one of the first companies to create an employee stock ownership plan, and they are among the few companies in this country to be 100 percent employee owned. I truly commend Marco, Inc., for understanding that employees are the heart and soul of every company and that they must be taken care of and rewarded. Your quick rise and large success is undoubtedly due to the way you treat your employees and your positive work environment. I am proud to recognize you here today.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hal Becker for his tireless service to the city of Delano and to wish him luck in his upcoming retirement. Hal graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1977 with a degree in mathematics. Not long after completing his education, Hal began to work at Delano Municipal Utilities and served as the general manager there for 30 years. He was the perfect candidate for this position, as he also graduated from the St. Paul Public Schools electricity course, holds an electrician's license and a water supply system operator license. Hal has done an outstanding job over the past 30 years, which is proven by the recognition he has received for his work. In 2013, he was the recipient of the impressive American Public Power Association's Larry Hobart Seven Hats Award. Hal has been a great neighbor and member of our Delano community and, above all, our friend. Hal, your shoes will be tough to fill, and we will all miss your service. I wish you a peaceful and happy retirement. Marco, Inc., of St. Cloud, Minnesota