Tom Emmer

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my friend and Minnesota's own, Phil Housley, on his recent induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Phil Housley is a true Minnesotan. Born and raised in the state of hockey, he graduated from South St. Paul High School in 1982. Phil was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres right out of high school and spent 21 years playing in the National Hockey League for eight different teams. Phil is a seven-time all-star and the highest scoring U.S.-born defenseman in NHL history. He also helped Team USA win a silver medal in the 2002 Olympics. Phil played his last professional game in 2003, but his hockey career did not end there. He is currently working as the assistant coach for the Nashville Predators. Phil was born to compete at the highest level, and he is being recognized with the highest honor his sport can grant: induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Phil. You deserve it.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Minnesota's dairy industry and National Dairy Month. In my home State, dairy is one of our largest agricultural products. We are one of the Nation's top dairy-producing States, and Stearns County, in my district, is the top dairy-producing county in Minnesota. Dairy farming is more than a profession; it is a way of life for many Minnesota families. I have had the privilege of visiting dairy farms across my district and have seen firsthand the hard work these men and women do day in and day out. From waking up before sunrise to milk their cows, to breeding, to delivering and raising newborn calves, it is just another day at the office for these folks. I am proud of Minnesota's dairy industry, and I hope that every American will take some time to grab an ice cream cone and appreciate the hard work that goes into making some of our Nation's favorite food. Happy Dairy Month to all of our hard-working farmers.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Joe Ramstad, a high school senior from Forest Lake, Minnesota. This impressive 18-year-old from my district was recently named the 2015 Star in Agriscience by the Minnesota Future Farmers of America for his work teaching a local agricultural literacy program. Agriculture is a vital part of Minnesota's economy, and we are dependent on these young men and women to ensure that agriculture remains a bright and thriving industry in our State. In the fall, Joe will be heading to the University of Minnesota with plans to work toward an agricultural education degree. Eventually, he hopes to work in an urban setting to educate students on a variety of agricultural opportunities that exist. I applaud Joe and all Future Farmers of America for their interest and passion in agriculture and Minnesota. Thank you, and congratulations on your recent honor, Joe.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge this body to pass the Protect Medical Innovation Act, which will repeal the 2.3 percent medical device excise tax. This harmful tax, mandated by ObamaCare, stifles innovation, sends jobs abroad, hurts consumers, and places a heavy burden on small businesses in my State and across the country. More than 35,000 Minnesotans are employed in the medical device industry, and thousands of Minnesotans depend on these state-of-the-art devices to enhance or even save their lives. This bill has been stalled for long enough. It is imperative that Congress pass this legislation now to encourage the development of these innovative technologies, rather than enact laws that discourage their creation and accessibility. I am grateful for the tremendous work by my Minnesota colleague, Erik Paulsen. Representative Paulsen has done much to ensure the medical device industry in Minnesota continues to thrive for many years to come with this legislation. Again, I ask my colleagues to support the Protect Medical Innovation Act and pass it immediately.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise in full support of the legislation that I am holding in my hand right now, the trade promotion authority bill. Tomorrow, the House will be voting on the passage of TPA, which is a vital step in ensuring America's future success as a nation. Whenever I get asked why--Why is it important? Why is American trade important?--I say it is not just important to Minnesota, it is important to the entire country, but I will use my State as the starter. The State of Minnesota is still home to 18 Fortune 500 companies, and the two main drivers of our private economy--our success--are agriculture and manufacturing. American trade is important. It is important to ensure that our superior workforce, our quality companies and products, have full and fair access to other markets around the world. Let me be clear, TPA is not a trade deal in itself; rather, TPA is legislation that authorizes the President to enter into an agreement only after Congress and the American people have given their approval. It contains 150 objectives that Congress mandates the U.S. Trade Representative must adhere to during negotiations. It has a provision that allows the House to withdraw TPA at any time during its 6-year authorization, effectively stopping any bad agreement in its tracks. It requires that any deal must be public for a minimum of 60 days before any vote or considerations taken by Congress. I want to thank Chairmen Ryan and Tiberi for their work on this important legislation. It is time for America to lead again, which is why I urge my colleagues to support the passage of trade promotion authority.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Marissa Bartels on winning an astounding four gold medals at the recent Minnesota State track and field meet. Marissa was born with spina bifida but refuses to let that slow her down. In middle school, when no longer able to participate in the sports she knew and loved, Marissa discovered wheelchair sports. This was her third year participating at State, and Marissa dominated, winning the 100 and 800 meter races as well as shot put and discus. Marissa's athletic abilities extend beyond track and field. She is also a national champion in baseball and basketball. It is no surprise that this impressive competitor will be heading to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in the fall as a student athlete. Best of luck and congratulations, Marissa. You are an inspiration to each of us to never give up, no matter what obstacle or adversity we may face.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Madam Chair, how much time do I have remaining?

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Thank you, Madam Chair. I have the utmost respect for my colleague from North Carolina, but he actually makes the argument for the amendment as opposed to opposed to it. Yes, it reduces risk for bicyclists and pedestrians when you talk about signage, when you talk about certain lighting, when you talk about certain enhancements that are add-ons to the project that the Federal Government and the Federal taxpayer dollars are intended to fund. The Federal taxpayer dollars should be going to the transit project that it is intended for, instead of all the extras. The local authorities should be responsible for those. Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to support the amendment. It is a clear-cut amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Madam Chair, I rise to address an issue that is playing a role in crippling America's transportation system by driving our deficits and exacerbating the need for bailouts of the highway trust fund. As we debate how to fund transportation, one of the most vital functions of government, this body is being forced to make hard choices. I want to thank Chairman Diaz-Balart, the ranking member, and the members of the subcommittee for their work on bringing this appropriations bill to the floor. Their work is definitely appreciated by me and my constituents. That said, it is inconceivable to me that, as we kick the can on a long-term transportation authorization bill, we continue to allow frivolous spending on transit projects. As important as New Starts transit projects are to my State and my district, one would think that every last available dollar would go towards ensuring transit New Starts have the funding needed to make a line operational and as cost effective as possible. Madam Chair, that is not what is happening. Within Federal grant applications, extras are being included that can dramatically raise the cost of transit New Starts. Excessive enrichments such as artwork, landscaping, and bicycle and pedestrian improvements such as sidewalks, paths, plazas, site and station furniture, site lighting, signage, public artwork, bike facilities, and permanent fencing are included in the overall grant application. Even more shocking is that the Federal Transit Administration doesn't include these extra costs into the cost-effective measurements for the overall cost of the project which serves to deceive taxpayers and Congress as to the project's real price tag. Madam Chair, in my district alone, I have cities that have placed a moratorium on new business development due to severe transportation issues. It is insane to me and my constituents that we blindly spend money on the niceties rather than prioritize funds for the necessities. There are numerous reasons that our Federal highway trust fund continues to run deficits and we will continue to have that debate; but one place that we can agree, certainly, is that Federal taxpayers should absolutely not be paying for things like artwork, furniture, lighting, and bike racks while transportation projects remain unfinished across America. I understand the need and desire for transit projects--I have them in my district--which is why I have offered this amendment. We should make funds available to ensure more Federal dollars go to what the hard- working taxpayers who fund these accounts expect, transit projects, rather than expensive add-ons that are driving deficits in our transit accounts. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Holy Cross Lutheran Church of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for their 125th anniversary. In 1890, Holy Cross Lutheran Church opened its doors. The congregation worshipped near the St. Cloud State University campus until they outgrew their facilities and in 1996 relocated to Clearwater Road. For 125 years, generations of central Minnesotans have gathered together to worship under this church's roof. Today, more than 1,000 people celebrate their faith and love of Christ in this vibrant and growing faith community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this body join me in congratulating Holy Cross Lutheran Church on their anniversary. May they have many more fruitful years to come.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of St. John's-St. Andrew's Catholic School in Meire Grove, Minnesota, as it celebrates its centennial. Founded in 1915, the current schoolhouse was built to meet the growing needs of a thriving Catholic community. After years of remodeling and improvements, and a shift towards being a parochial school, St. John's-St. Andrew's now consists of 40 families. An impressive growth, considering Catholic education in the area began with a deserted log church and 20 children. For a century, central Minnesotans have sent their sons and daughters to this historic school knowing that they will receive a substantive education centered around Christ. For many, this Catholic tradition spans several generations. I pray that these children continue to grow in their faith and that they continue to follow Christ's example of service and respect. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this body join me in congratulating St. John's-St. Andrew's Catholic School on 100 years, and thanking them for building such a strong Catholic-educated community. May their success continue for decades to come.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Chief Bill Mund, who retires this week after more than a decade as fire chief of the City of St. Cloud, Minnesota. Chief Mund is a St. Cloud boy through and through. He not only grew up in the Granite City, but after graduating from Apollo High School in 1977 and serving in the United States Navy, he returned to his hometown. He has dedicated his career to his hometown community, joining the St. Cloud Fire Department 32 years ago. Before becoming St. Cloud's fire chief, he was the assistant chief to his predecessor, Mike Holman. Now as chief, he has overseen five fire stations and 63 firefighters that respond to approximately 4,000 incidents each year. Thank you for all you have done for the St. Cloud community, Chief Mund. Enjoy your retirement. You deserve it.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Elk River High School team that participated in the Moody's Mega Math Challenge. Joe Evans, Chase Gauthier, Zach Glasgow, Jordan Haack, Peter Jones, and Coach Curt Michener took home the third place Cum Laude Team Prize. The Moody's Mega Math Challenge is a competition that encourages participants to use applied mathematics to solve everyday problems. This year's challenge problem required the team to create a cost- benefit analysis of higher education and degree choices. 1,128 teams with more than 6,000 students entered the competition, but Elk River's team was one of only six in the finals, and the only one from west of the Mississippi River. I am profoundly impressed by these students' hard work and their interest in mathematics. They made the 6th District proud. Mr. Speaker, I ask this body join me in congratulating Joe, Chase, Zach, Jordan, Peter, and Coach Michener on their impressive finish and on their academic accomplishments.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Noah Masih, a 6th grader from Clearwater, Minnesota. Noah is a national champion, having recently won the National Number Knockout. The National Number Knockout is a math competition for students ages 9-14, and competitors play to improve their calculating speed. The competition involves a board of 36 numbers and use of dice to create an additional variable. Noah beat out 15 other finalists to claim the title. I am always awestruck by those who find their passion in numbers. Noah's feat is nothing short of impressive, and is a testament to a fantastic homeschooling program. I know I speak for the 6th District when I say we are so proud of Noah and his accomplishments, and I look forward with eager anticipation to seeing what the future holds for this bright young scholar. Mr. Speaker, I ask that this body join me in congratulating Noah Masih on his success in mathematics.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the recipients of the St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Owner of the Year, St. Cloud Area Family Owned Business of the Year, and the St. Cloud Area Emerging Entrepreneur. Larry Logeman is the 2015 St. Cloud Area Small Business Owner of the Year. Larry is quite literally a man with a plan. Though he did not grow up with the dream of one day owning a business, he wrote a plan to become a business owner and set a personal deadline of 5-7 years. Nearing the end of his timeframe, he bought Executive Express. Larry's customer-focused business model has served him well. What began as a modest shuttle service between central Minnesota and the Minneapolis- St. Paul International Airport grew into a business with 85 employees, 31 vehicles, and a projected revenue stream of $3 million in 2015. Viking Coca-Cola, owned by Michael Faber, is the St. Cloud Area Family Owned Business of the Year. After Joe Faber, one of the founders and owners of the company, passed away in the 1990s, his son Michael moved back to Minnesota to join the management team. Keeping it in the family proved fruitful for the business. With Michael's help, Viking Coca-Cola capitalized on its existing success by expanding to canning and adding new products where consumer needs arose. The company now boasts nearly 500 employees and has a multi-state distribution operation. To top it all off, Michael and the company are active members in the community, helping local organizations and participating in charitable events. Luke Riordan, owner of DAYTA Marketing, is the St. Cloud Area Emerging Entrepreneur. DAYTA's success is attributed to its focus on a specific subsect of the digital communications field--people and businesses who need help with social media but at an affordable price. Luke and his team work closely with their clients towards a noticeable online presence for their businesses. Luke's ambition matches the digital marketing industry--it's not slowing down. His company's doors opened in early 2012, and in the last three years they've expanded into larger office space four times and now have 25 employees. I know I speak for the entire 6th District when I say I am so proud of these individuals' hard work and the example they set for those around them. Small businesses--and their owners--truly are the lifeblood of our beloved nation. The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce picked an excellent group to highlight this year. Mr. Speaker, I ask this body join me in honoring Larry Logeman, Viking Coca-Cola, and Luke Riordan for their invaluable contributions to St. Cloud and the surrounding area, and the State of Minnesota.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Police Week, when we remember the sacrifice of our Nation's law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. This year's commemoration falls during a time of heightened tension between our officers and the civilians they have sworn to protect, and it serves as a solemn reminder to all of us the importance of communication, duty, and mutual respect. Today and every day, we honor the lives of our fallen, including Officer Tommy Decker, of Cold Spring, Minnesota, who was killed in the line of duty in 2012 while doing a welfare check. May they have eternal rest; may their legacy of service to their communities live on, and may those they left behind find comfort and peace. Blessed are the peacemakers.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to raise awareness about the questionable requirements the State of Minnesota has been given by the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan. The Clean Power Plan mandates that Minnesota reduce carbon emissions for power plants by 41 percent by the year 2030, while requiring lower reductions in other States. The EPA has failed to recognize and credit Minnesota for already decreasing its emissions by 13 percent between 2005 and 2011. Not only is this plan patently unfair to Minnesotans, but it will hurt consumers across our Nation. Electricity prices will increase for many businesses and families, disproportionately impacting those who are already struggling to make ends meet. Additionally, according to the Cato Institute, the plan will only reduce the average worldwide temperature by about two-hundredths of a degree Celsius, and that will take almost 100 years. I encourage the EPA to reconsider the Clean Power Plan, while keeping in mind the work many States have already done on their own to reduce emissions.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the World War II veterans from St. Cloud, Minnesota, as they visit our nation's capital as part of the Honor Flight program. This afternoon I had the honor of meeting the St. Cloud Honor Flight as they visited the World War II Memorial down on the National Mall. The remaining men and women of the Greatest Generation are a reminder to all of us of the importance of duty, patriotism, and sacrifice. No word or action will ever repay what these men and women have done for our country, but I hope that today's journey with the Honor Flight serves as a small token of our immeasurable gratitude for their service to this great nation. I ask that this body join me in thanking our veterans for their service, and the Honor Flight program for making days like today possible for veterans across the country.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jim Kruse and Melissa Kelley of J.F. Kruse Jewelers in St. Cloud, Minnesota. They have been named the Minnesota Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Last year, the St. Cloud Area Chamber honored them as the Small Business of the Year. Jim Kruse opened J.F. Kruse 15 years ago. From humble beginnings, using secondhand jewelry cases, to a newly built facility and a team of 17 people, the father-daughter duo built a dynamic business that has seen steady growth year after year. Family-run businesses like J.F. Kruse are the backbone of central Minnesota, and I know I speak for everyone when I say congratulations and good luck in competing for the national title.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jim Smith, the longtime coach of St. John's University's basketball team. Coach Smith just completed his 51st season as the winningest college basketball coach at any level in Minnesota history. Nationwide, he is ranked 14th in the NCAA, with a career record of 786 wins and 556 losses. His legacy lives beyond the statistics as well. Beloved both on the court and in the greater Collegeville community, Coach Smith is known for being inspiring, competitive, and one of the friendliest people you would have the pleasure of meeting. This legendary coach leaves behind big shoes to fill. Thank you for everything you have done, Coach Smith. Enjoy your retirement.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Agriculture Week. If you look around this great building, you will find countless references to our early economy, which depended largely on our Nation's abundant farmland. This vital industry impacts every person in this country, from the food we place before our family to the businesses that keep our citizens gainfully employed. My home State of Minnesota is the fourth largest agricultural exporter in the country, and Stearns County, which is in my district, is the largest dairy producing county in Minnesota. We are the Land of 10,000 Lakes and 80,000 farms. As a member of the Agriculture Committee, I am proud to work on behalf of both farmers and consumers to ensure this vibrant industry continues to thrive. Please join me this week in thanking a farmer.

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota

Mr. EMMER of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the House for passing America's Small Business Tax Relief Act of 2015. I want to thank Congressman Tiberi, Chairman Ryan, and leadership for their work to pass this important piece of legislation. If we want the United States to continue as the most productive economy in the world, we need to modernize our Tax Code. Allowing businesses to plan ahead and allocate their resources will generate wealth, jobs, and a higher standard of living for everyone. Making section 179 of the Tax Code permanent is one way we can do this. Section 179 enables companies to accelerate depreciation of new and used equipment that is purchased and put into use during the same year. This expensing can stimulate business investment by reducing the cost of capital and increasing cash flow. Investing in the future of America is critical to long-term growth and economic prosperity for all. I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this important legislation.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 90th birthday of Walter Grotz of Delano, Minnesota. Born on February 10, 1925, Walter is a World War II veteran with a remarkable life of service, both to his community and to his country. Shortly after graduating from Delano High School in 1943, Walter was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Force. When his plane was shot down over Germany, he spent 6 months as a prisoner of war of the Nazis. After surviving this brutal experience, Walter came back to Minnesota, serving as Delano's postmaster until his retirement 34 years later. ``Freedom is a very special thing,'' he reminds Delano students through his scholarship essay contest. ``You take it for granted because it's always been there and always will be.'' But will it? Thank you for your service, Walter. Happy birthday.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Fighting Hunger Incentive Act of 2015. Roughly one in 10 Minnesotans live in poverty. Sadly, this means that many Minnesotans, including children, lack access to the food and resources they need to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. This morning, I had an opportunity to tour and make sandwiches at Martha's Table, an organization here in D.C. that reaches more than 18,000 people through their programs. I saw firsthand the need for legislation like this. This legislation will permanently extend the enhanced charitable deduction for all businesses that donate food to charities and food banks. This will encourage more businesses to chip in and help in the ongoing fight against hunger. We have an obligation to help those around us, and this is a nonpartisan, bipartisan way to make a big difference.