Tom Emmer

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Manufacturing Day and the importance of Minnesota's manufacturing industry. Manufacturing is one of the main drivers of the economy in my district and my State. Manufacturers generate billions of dollars in revenue for my State each year, making them a key pillar of Minnesota's economy. Minnesota is home to an impressive 292,000 manufacturing jobs, and the State's manufacturing industry has the second largest payroll of any business sector. Minnesotans are hardworking people, and they deserve the best that life has to offer. They deserve a strong State economy, which allows for individual growth, prosperity, and the pursuit of happiness. That is why I will continue to emphasize the importance of manufacturing- friendly policies for as long as I serve in Congress. I am proud to support Manufacturing Day in our country, but I want to make it clear that every day is Manufacturing Day in Minnesota. Hal Becker, a Servant to Delano

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Jeff Herrala of Andover for being named the 2015 Cadet of the Year. Jeff graduated first in his class from Anoka High School, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. Due to Jeff's stellar accomplishments both inside the classroom and out, my predecessor, Michele Bachmann, awarded Jeff with both the Congressional Certificate of Merit and an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in 2012. Jeff currently attends the Air Force Academy in Colorado, where he is studying aeronautical engineering. It is clear that Jeff truly embodies one of the Air Force's core values: excellence. Throughout Jeff's life and academic career, he has demonstrated nothing short of excellence, and he is beyond deserving of this award. Jeff, I am proud to recognize you here today, and I look forward to seeing what the future has in store for you.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Scott Glew of Elk River for receiving a Veterans' Voices ``On the Rise'' Award. Scott spent eight years in the Minnesota Army National Guard and was deployed to Iraq. Scott strongly believes that if we encourage students across the country to become more informed and active citizens, we can improve the future of our country. To act on this, Scott decided to begin his career as a social studies teacher following his service to our country. Scott has not let his passion for education stop at the classroom door. He is an active leader within his school district and serves on the Board of Directors for both the Minnesota Council for History Education and the Minnesota Council for the Social Studies. Additionally, Scott is currently in graduate school at the University of Minnesota researching citizenship and peace. I admire Scott for everything that he has done to better this country and his community. He is the exact type of person who should be teaching because he is the epitome of an excellent role model. I thank him for his service and for helping educate Minnesota's children. Scott--well done and keep up the amazing work.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Shelby Marie Hadley of Rice for receiving a Veterans' Voice ``On the Rise'' Award. Serving in the Minnesota Army National Guard as an Air Traffic Controller, Shelby was deployed to Bosnia in 2003 and to Iraq in 2008. Shelby has not only served her country abroad, but here at home as well. She is very active with the St. Cloud area veterans and her community as a whole. She spends time working with various organizations including the Wounded Warrior Project and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota. In addition to her volunteer work, Shelby has taken her story to the stage and performed in Telling: Minnesota 2015 at the Guthrie Theatre, where she shared the story of her military service. Shelby has a bachelor's degree from St. Cloud State University and is set to complete her MBA program this month. I would like to thank Shelby for all that she has contributed to her country and community. Your hard work has not gone unnoticed and this award is well-deserved. Good job and keep up the excellent work.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate State Representative, and former colleague of mine, Bob Dettmer of Forest Lake for being named a recipient of the Veterans' Voices Legacy Award. Bob served his country in the United States Army Reserve and is a 25- year veteran. He was a Military Intelligence Warrant Officer and served on active duty in both ``Operation Enduring Freedom'' and ``Operation Iraqi Freedom.'' In addition to his military service, Bob has served as a teacher and head wrestling coach at Forest Lake High School for 34 years. In 2006, Bob was elected to the Minnesota State House of Representatives, where he is currently serving as the Chair of the Veterans Affairs Division. He has also worked tirelessly on several veterans' bills. Outside of his work representing his district in the Minnesota Legislature, Bob serves on the Board of Directors for STARBASE and is a co-chair of the Childhood Obesity Working Group as well as the Military Action Group. Bob has dedicated his entire life to serving his country and those around him. It is an honor to know him and to have worked with him. Bob states that he is working towards making Minnesota even more ``veteran friendly'' and I would say that he is well on his way to accomplishing this goal. This award is well deserved.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ralph Donais of Elk River for receiving a Veterans' Voices Legacy Award. Ralph served in the Marine Corps from 1964 to 1994 and retired as an Aviation Avionics Chief. During his service, Ralph fought for our country while being deployed for two tours in Vietnam. Ralph's efforts earned him the Meritorious Service Medal along with numerous other awards. Ralph's commitment to his country and his fellow veterans did not end once he returned to Elk River. Ralph has been involved in the United Veterans Legislative Council of Minnesota and served as chair of the council as well. He also spends time at the Minnesota Capitol to inform and educate legislators as well as testifying in committees regarding issues important to the veterans community. Additionally, Ralph is a member of many organizations including the Marine Corps League, and the Fleet Reserve Association. Another organization that Ralph is involved with is the Enlisted Association where he has served as Chapter President. Elk River's Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program, which lends a helping hand to veterans and members of our military before, during and after deployments, was started by Ralph and he remains an active member. Ralph's involvement in his community extends beyond his work with veterans. He lends his vocal talents by serving on the Board of Directors of the North Star Boys Choir and as a member of the St. Andrew Choir. I would like to congratulate Ralph for receiving this award, but I would also like to commend him for all that he has done for his country and the Elk River community. It takes an extraordinary person to accomplish all that he has, and I am proud to recognize him here today.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to celebrate Dr. James Tourila of St. Cloud for receiving a Veterans' Voices Legacy Award. I was proud to nominate Dr. Tourila for this award for his impressive work on behalf of veterans. Jim achieved the rank of Sergeant in the United States Army and was deployed to Korea from 1975 to 1976. After retiring from the Army, Jim graduated from Bemidji State University and went on to get his Master's Degree and PhD in psychology. From there, Jim moved to St. Cloud where he worked as a psychologist at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center for twenty years. Jim currently practices at the Central Minnesota Counseling Center in St. Cloud. Jim has supported Minnesota's veterans in more ways than one. He is an enthusiastic hot air balloon pilot which led to the creation of Freedom Flight, Inc. to honor veterans who never made it home. Jim has also served as director of the St. Cloud Honor Flight, which has flown more than a thousand veterans from around the state of Minnesota to see the National Monuments in D.C. Jim has been elected as the VFW National Surgeon General twice and is currently serving his eighth year as the Minnesota VFW State Surgeon. Minnesota is so proud of Jim and I am happy to be able to celebrate all of his efforts today. His years of hard work have bettered the lives of hundreds of veterans, and because of that, there is no one more deserving of this award.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Megan Allen of Ramsey for receiving a Veterans' Voices ``On the Rise'' Award. At the age of seventeen, Megan enlisted in the Army National Guard and went on to serve two tours of duty in Iraq. Her twelve years of service in the National Guard has had a huge impact on Megan and inspired her to work to better her community. Megan currently spends an enormous amount of time volunteering for multiple organizations throughout the Twin Cities and metro areas striving to better the lives of the homeless communities and children in the area. Among many non-profits Megan works with, she is most passionate about Girls on the Run, a program that promotes self-confidence and healthy choices for young girls. But this isn't the only program she helps. Megan also supports the Beyond the Line Yellow Ribbon Network, which lends a helping hand to veterans and members of our military before, during and after deployments. I thank Megan for everything that she has done and continues to do for her community. Minnesota is a better place because of Megan, and she is truly deserving of this award.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lauren Gillson of St. Cloud for her first place win in the Minnesota Grocers Association 2015 Best Bagger Contest, which took place at the Mall of America last month. I would also like to commend the Minnesota Grocers Association for hosting this competition. It demonstrates how much value they place on providing excellent customer service. Anyone who visits a grocery store will understand just how crucial a bagger's role is to the industry. They are, by far, one of the most memorable employees in the store, as they are the last person to be in contact with the customer. A bagger can often make or break the customer's overall experience. Lauren competed against nine others before winning first place. Her win is truly impressive, as she has only worked at Lunds & Byerlys in St. Cloud for less than a month. I wish Lauren good luck as she competes in the 2016 National Grocers Association Best Bagger Championship this February. Live Until the Day You Die

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the individuals from my district who were recently recognized for Veterans' Voices Awards. I am proud to recognize State Representative Bob Dettmer of Forest Lake, Minnesota; Ralph Donais of Elk River; Jim Tuorila of St. Cloud; Megan Allen of Ramsey; Scott Glew of Elk River; and Shelby Marie Hadley of Rice. These awards are given to individuals who have nobly served their country in the Armed Forces and gone on to volunteer in their communities after returning home. Each one of these incredible men and women, chosen by the Minnesota Humanities Center, has positively impacted the United States and Minnesota's Sixth District in a major way. There is so much to thank these individuals for. Thank you for defending our country and for realizing that there was still so much to be accomplished once you returned home. Your work has not gone unnoticed, and we are forever grateful.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Davis for all that he has done to help those affected by cancer. Over the past 4 months, Jim has flown throughout the continental United States and given free plane rides to cancer survivors and patients. By sharing his passion for flying, Jim has brought comfort and everlasting memories to these individuals in their time of need. What truly is amazing about Jim's story is that he is going through a similar situation as the people he is helping. After being diagnosed with liver cancer and given just 9 months to live, Jim decided that he wasn't going to give up. Instead, he made it his mission to help others affected by this terrible disease. Jim has said, ``Some people get a cancer diagnosis and just sit and wait to die. Not me. I want to live. Cancer patients, live until the day you die.'' Jim, I want to thank you for your amazing acts of kindness. I am in awe of your positive attitude and capacity for helping others. Minnesota is Proud of Her Veterans

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. The American people have spoken and overwhelmingly oppose this agreement. Our allies in the region, who know Iran best, oppose this deal. The President, enabled by Senate Democrats, continues to live in a fantasyland. The President's track record in the region is appalling: Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Benghazi, the reset with Russia, red lines in Syria, his failed ISIL strategy, and his catastrophic withdrawal from Iraq, just to name a few, now handing billions, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and a legal pathway to a nuclear weapon to Iran. The American people deserve the truth rather than lies and half- truths about snapback sanctions; secret side deals; anytime, anywhere inspections; Iran's right to enrich uranium or plutonium; and, as we stand here today, Congress' role in this bad deal. Members of Congress must ask themselves two questions: Does this deal make us more secure? Does this deal make us more safe? The answer to both questions is a resounding, no, it doesn't. Secretary of State Kerry said ``no deal is better than a bad deal.'' I couldn't agree more.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and having this Special Order tonight. It is important that we allow time to acknowledge the brave men and women who serve as police officers throughout our country. During the August district work period, I had the opportunity to participate in an event to memorialize and honor a fallen officer from Minnesota, Officer Tommy Decker. Tommy was an amazing individual who dedicated his life to serving the Cold Spring community in central Minnesota. On Thursday, November 29, 2012, while conducting a welfare check, Tommy was ambushed and taken from this world far too soon. At the young age of 31, Tommy had already given 10 years of his life to serve his community. My predecessor, Michele Bachmann, worked tirelessly to ensure that Tommy received the recognition he so greatly deserved, and 2 weeks ago we dedicated the Cold Spring Post Office in the name of Officer Tommy Decker, a man who gave his life to the Cold Spring community. I was privileged to participate in the ceremony on behalf of Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District and to continue the great work that Michele began. We now have this lasting reminder of Tommy, his service, and his great heroism to his community. We try to thank our military veterans and the servicemen and -women in uniform as much as possible for their work and sacrifice to protect our freedoms and keep us safe. We should do the same for our men and women in police uniforms. Police are courageous and selfless servants in our communities. They patrol our streets to keep us safe. Perhaps now more than ever, they not only deserve but need our acknowledgement, support, and encouragement. Every day, police officers across this country go to work not knowing what they are going to encounter, all the while knowing that, regardless, it is their duty to, quite literally, serve and protect. Tommy and all of the men and women who proudly wear their police uniforms are looked up to by many, and we all owe them so much. Thank you to all of our police officers across the United States. We pray for your safe return home tonight and every night.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in order to recognize the importance of farm families throughout the great State of Minnesota. The University of Minnesota recently recognized the 2015 Minnesota Farm Families from across the State, and I am proud to represent five of these families who call the Sixth Congressional District home. These farm families include the Bruce Bacon Garden Farm in Anoka County, the Scapanski Dairy in Benton County, the Buckentine Family Dairy in Carver County, the Reuter Family Farm in Washington County, and the Bernings' Green Waves Farm, Inc., in Wright County. For many Minnesotans, farming isn't just a profession; it is a way of life. Family farms link the past to the future with each generation passing their work ethic, land, and traditions to the next. These farms make up the heartland of America and exemplify what makes Minnesota's agriculture industry great, which is why they should be celebrated. Congratulations to the 2015 Minnesota Farm Families, and thank you so much for everything that you do.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, 5 years ago the President signed the Dodd-Frank legislation into law. The American people were told that Dodd-Frank would end Washington bailouts, protect consumers, and in the event of another perilous economic situation, it would mitigate the impact and stabilize the financial industry and our economy. As American families and businesses have now learned, Dodd-Frank does just the opposite. Dodd-Frank has actually codified the too big to fail mentality in Washington, harmed consumers, and will fail to sound the alarm before the next economic crisis. I have talked with many people in the financial services industry about Dodd-Frank, and the theme I hear over and over again is that the regulatory burdens created by this law are harming their ability to offer affordable services to their clients, my constituents. Since Dodd-Frank, approximately 1,500 community banks across the country have closed, and a recent study shows that Dodd-Frank has added 61 million hours of paperwork and more than $24 billion in final rule costs to the financial industry. These costs are not borne by Wall Street executives but, rather, by working mothers, small-business owners, and retirees. This body is not powerless. In fact, I am here with many of my colleagues tonight standing up for working families impacted by this flawed law. We should subject this Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Financial Stability Oversight Council to congressional appropriations. We should establish a bipartisan commission to lead the CFPB and reduce regulation that is crippling our community banks and credit unions. By enacting commonsense reforms, businesses can grow, jobs will be created, and American workers can better provide for their families. I also want to thank the 146 banks, 8 credit unions, and nearly 60,000 constituents in my district who provide vital financial services to Minnesotans despite the ever-growing regulatory burden from Washington.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize John Enstrom of Elk River and the Disabled Veterans of America organization for all the incredible work they have done and continue to do for our Nation's veterans. On August 5, John is hosting a charity fishing event in Ramsey, Minnesota. He is hosting the event for disabled American veterans. Along with friends and volunteers, John plans to bring 150 wounded veterans to a private lake for a great day of fishing, games, and simply enjoying the great Minnesota outdoors. Our veterans have stood for our country's freedom and individual liberty, all the while putting their lives on the line. Disabled veterans have sacrificed in order to protect and serve our great Nation. It is an extraordinary kind of person who cares for others so deeply. I would like to thank John and the Disabled Veterans of America not only for all the work they have done for this event, but for also recognizing that veterans need and deserve to be cared for once they return home. Small Community Banks Harmed by Dodd-Frank

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of the House Agriculture and the Energy and Commerce Committees' actions on the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015, of which I am a cosponsor. Biotechnology is nothing new. Norman Borlaug, a researcher and legend in my home State, was the ``father of the Green Revolution'' while at the University of Minnesota due to his groundbreaking work on high- yield crops that have fed billions of people around the globe. American farmers already deal with heavy compliance regulations to ensure that our food is safe to eat. Families must know that Borlaug's incredible accomplishment and the hard work of the American farmer is not in vain. It is no surprise that I am not a fan of the Federal bureaucracy, but on this issue we must stand with American farmers on the health and safety of our food. We should move in the right direction, and the House should pass this bipartisan legislation that will create a voluntary label that supports farmers and American families.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and congratulate the Anoka-Hennepin Mustangs for being named the 2015 Minnesota State champions in physically impaired adapted softball. Comprised of students from Andover, Anoka, Blaine, Champlin Park, and Coon Rapids, these players were a force to be reckoned with at this year's State championship tournament. Having earned the number one seed, the Mustangs went into the tournament boasting 11 wins, with more than 167 runs scored during this season. With the momentum of an undefeated season, the Mustangs cruised to victory at the recent State championship. After scoring nearly a dozen runs and completing a few notable double plays, the Mustangs won the championship game with an 11-8 victory over the Rochester Raiders. Even more impressive, the Mustang championship win ended a 6-year winning streak for the previous defending champions. I ask that this body join me in congratulating these tremendous athletes. Well done. Siding with American Farmers

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the fifth anniversary of Dodd-Frank to share a story from a small community bank that has three locations in my district. This bank is struggling due to the additional regulation that Dodd-Frank has imposed on them. They were forced to hire a full-time compliance director in addition to retaining two outside compliance firms. This has cost the bank nearly $100,000 more a year. In addition, numerous other staff members now have to take time away from revenue-generating activities to satisfy the compliance regulations of Dodd-Frank. They told me: ``Compliance has always been a cost that is just a part of our business. However, since Dodd-Frank, this cost has expanded greatly. Unfortunately, since there is no offsetting revenue for the expanding cost, we are forced to consider passing on costs to our customers with additional fees.'' Mr. Speaker, I wish I could say this is an isolated occurrence, but a recent study shows that Dodd-Frank has added 61 million hours of paperwork and more than $24 billion in final rule costs for the financial industry in this country. Nationwide, we have lost approximately 1500 community banks already. The 5 years since Dodd-Frank was signed into law have been marked with 5 years of failure. Undefeated Season Ends with State Championship Title

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Cloud's own Nick Tylutki for his second-place finish at the International Powerlifting Federation World Championship in Salo, Finland. This past year, after topping 108 competitors, Nick won the national title and a ticket to the world championship in Finland. With eight previous world championships under his belt, Nick finished higher than ever before, coming just shy of completing a 744-pound deadlift for the gold. In addition to his successful powerlifting career, Nick is also a St. Cloud police officer and SWAT team operator. As a child, Nick dreamed of becoming a police officer, and that dream was realized 7 years ago when he joined the St. Cloud police force. I congratulate Nick on his impressive silver medal at the world championship, and I thank him for his service as one of St. Cloud's finest.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, transportation is the key to the future economic growth of my district and our Nation. For years, the Federal highway trust fund has run deficits and fostered an environment of waste and frivolous spending. This week, Congress is poised to pass another short-term fix. While I applaud the efforts of Chairmen Ryan and Shuster, my constituents need long-term answers and solutions to the transportation gridlock and congestion that stifles growth and expansion. Projects in my district, such as Interstate 94, which is one of the most congested corridors in the region, are slowing development and cost commuters valuable time and money while they are stuck in traffic. U.S. Highway 10 has become such an issue that cities are placing moratoriums on new business development. Mr. Speaker, this is a travesty, and my constituents have every right to be frustrated. I call upon this body to work to pass a long-term funding bill and give our constituents the certainty they deserve in their transportation system. One of St. Cloud's Finest is One of the World's Strongest

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the REINS Act. In my time in Congress, one message I consistently hear at home is Washington is not listening to the people. Unelected, nameless bureaucrats continue to impose harmful and burdensome regulation on the American people. In total, compliance with Federal regulation costs $1.8 trillion a year. These regulations are devastating to small business and cost American families nearly $15,000 a year. Using the REINS Act, the new Congress has stepped up to the plate. Under the REINS Act, major rules from Federal agencies would require congressional approval before enactment. Through Congress, the American people would have up to 70 days to view a major rule before it is ever called for a vote. To prevent long legal challenges, courts are allowed to ensure agencies have adhered to all necessary requirements before final implementation. Finally, the REINS Act allows for Congress to disapprove of any minor rule, thus holding this administration accountable and protecting against a runaway Federal Government. I am a proud cosponsor of the REINS Act, which restores the democratic process in favor of those who originally formed our government, the people. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this vital legislation. Transportation is Our Future

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate St. Cloud Cathedral High School baseball coach Bob Karn on being named not only the Regional Coach of the Year, but also the Diamond National Coach of the Year, by the American Baseball Coaches Association. Under Coach Karn's direction, the Crusaders have won 50 consecutive games, and this year, they celebrated their second straight State title. These impressive statistics are nothing new for Coach Karn. Karn has coached a total of 45 seasons, and under his leadership, Cathedral has a record of 736-237 and nine State championships. Coach Karn, you have made a lasting impact on the lives of your players, and they will no doubt use all you have taught them wherever they go. Your team, your school, and your community have all benefited from your leadership. Thank you so much for everything that you do. Keep up the excellent work, and best of luck next season. Accountable Regulation, Not More Regulation

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize two young constituents, Connor Hanson and Schuyler Elaine Frashier, for being among the top students to place in the National Shooting Sports Foundation's annual essay contest. Connor took the top honors, and Schuyler placed in the top 25, and also received a Learning for Life Award. In Minnesota, hunting is a way of life. These traditions are often passed down from one generation to the next, teaching many important life lessons along the way. Connor depicts this in his essay, describing the bonding experience with his father, the spirituality of the hunt, as well as everything that the hunt has taught him about life. Connor writes that the ``hunting season allows me to see and experience the truth, through God's creation.'' I want to congratulate Connor and Schuyler on not only placing in this competition, but for so accurately portraying how important hunting is to our culture in Minnesota. Well done.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of my own. As of today, my son, Joe, is officially a member of the United States Navy. My wife, Jacquie, and I are the proud parents of seven children. Last month, Joe, our fifth child, graduated high school and now is off to serve his country. Today, as Joe leaves for basic, he knows that hard days lie ahead. He understands that he will have to listen and learn and, when the time comes, lead. Like millions of brave and selfless Americans before him, Joe has taken an oath to serve his Nation and to protect the freedoms we hold dear. My wife and I are so proud of Joe, and we are humbled by his chosen path. So to Joe and his fellow recruits, we honor and thank you for your service, and we wish you fair winds and safe seas. Joe, we will pray for you, and we look forward to seeing your transformation from citizen to sailor. We love you.