Ron Estes

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned, the last official count of eligible students was conducted in 1995, which determined that there were nearly 272,000 American Indian students who were qualified for the Johnson- O'Malley Program. However, in 2017, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that there were an additional 80,000 students who would qualify. Clearly, this bill is needed and overdue. Currently, the program receives $14.9 million, annually, in funding. Modernization of this act will cost an estimated $13 million over the next 4 years. This is an important investment in the future of our country, and those students deserve our support. This legislation improves and strengthens the Johnson-O'Malley Program, and I urge my colleagues to support S. 943. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6757, the Family Savings Act. Since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was implemented and signed into law, our country has seen historic economic growth and millions of families now have more money in their pockets. In fact, in Kansas, a middle-class family of four will get to keep $2,144 of their hard-earned money of this year. Thanks to the law, families from the heartland in Kansas and around the country are better off now. But we know there is more to do. With historically low unemployment and more and more Americans going to work, now is the time to continue growing our economy and to help families prepare for the future. As my colleagues have mentioned earlier, far too many Americans have struggled to save for their key life events such as retirement, an emergency, or education. This bill makes savings a reality for these Americans. As part of the tax cuts reform 2.0, this Family Savings Act will help families save for all of these events by expanding access to new and existing savings methods. To help businesses provide retirement plans for workers, the bill allows small businesses to join together to create 401(k) plans more affordably. It gives employers more time to put new retirement plans in place, and simplifies the rules for participation in employer plans. It also includes reforms to help workers participate in retirement plans such as: exempting small retirement accounts from mandatory payouts; eliminating the age limits on IRA contributions; and allowing military reservists to maximize their retirement contributions. In addition, the bill allows provisions that help families start saving earlier and save more throughout their lives, including creating a new Universal Savings Account, a USA account, to offer a flexible savings tool that families can use any time that is right for them. It expands 529 education accounts by providing families with flexibility to use their education savings to pay for apprenticeships, homeschooling, and help pay off student loans. As the former Kansas State Treasurer, I can attest to the value of helping parents save for their children's education. And it creates new baby savings, allowing families to access their retirement accounts on a penalty-free basis when welcoming a new child into the family, whether by birth or adoption. All together, these measures will help families in Kansas and around our country prepare for retirement and save for education. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and service of Sedgwick County Sheriff's Deputy Robert Kunze III. On September 16, Deputy Kunze responded to a suspicious character call in a rural area of Sedgwick County. When he arrived, the suspect opened fire, and Deputy Kunze was shot in the neck. The suspect could have fled or killed two witnesses standing close by. But in one final heroic act, before collapsing, Deputy Kunze returned fire, killing the suspect on the spot. The suspect was a convicted felon who had stolen two vehicles and the weapon he was carrying. By killing the suspect, Deputy Kunze ended a violent crime spree and gave up his life to save others. Described as a jokester with a contagious laugh, Deputy Kunze leaves behind his wife, Kathleen, and their young daughter, Alyssa. At his funeral on Friday, Alyssa addressed the crowd with the words that rang across Kansas, saying: ``My dad was a hero. . . . He protected everyone.'' Today, we continue to pray for Deputy Kunze's family, as well as Sheriff Jeff Easter and the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office. At this time, I ask our colleagues to join in a moment of silence to honor Deputy Robert Kunze.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I want to begin tonight by offering thoughts and prayers to the communities in the path of Hurricane Florence. My home State of Kansas is no stranger to natural disasters, and we are standing with those who will be impacted in the coming days. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about how we are all better off now. There has been a lot of talk lately about our country's economic recovery. Some of the debate recently has centered around when it started versus how it started. But really, it indicates one thing is real clear, that after years of stagnation, high unemployment, low wage growth, today, there is no denying that America is better off now than we were 2 years ago. Tax reform and getting government out of the way has helped fuel this economic recovery. For 8 long years, we had an administration working against business growth. Now America has a President and Congress working to grow the economy. In addition to our economy, progrowth policies have been championed that allow veterans, our Armed Forces, families, and small businesses in every sector and in every community to be better off now. During this Special Order, I look forward to highlighting all the exciting things happening in my district in Kansas and around the country that are returning America to a place of strength, security, and prosperity. Throughout the August district work period, I traveled my district discussing how Kansans are better off now thanks to legislation that enhances our economy, secures our community, and strengthens our military. During the past month, I met with multitudes of small businesses and groups, some of which include: the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce; touring a wind farm in Pratt County; meeting with constituents at Dave's Pizza in Coldwater; learning about services provided at Medicine Lodge Memorial Hospital; meeting with constituents at Hibbard's Prescription Plus in Medicine Lodge; hosted a town hall for veterans; participated in a roundtable with the Realtors of south central Kansas; celebrated the ribbon cutting of two low-income housing projects in Wichita, one specifically designated for veterans; met with constituents at Tiger Town Pizza in St. John; toured the Golden Belt Feeders in Stafford County; met with constituents at Carr Auto-Electric in Larned; visited the Offerle Co-op; spent a day in Greensburg at the Big Well Museum, the school, the senior center, the art studio, and the media center; discussed the farm bill and several other issues related to our agriculture community as I went to several county farm bureau meetings; spoke at the West Wichita Sunrise Rotary Club; and toured the Textron Aviation manufacturing facility. I travel home to Kansas every week and during the district work period to hear from constituents. Even though there is more work to do, my latest district work period made it clear, as I spent time in the district, that individuals, families, and small businesses across our State and country are better off now. From our economy standpoint, the numbers really speak for themselves. The unemployment rate is near an 18-year low at 3.9 percent. Youth unemployment is at the lowest level in 52 years. Female unemployment is at the lowest level in 65 years. Black and Hispanic unemployment rates are the second lowest ever recorded. Veterans recently hit the lowest unemployment in 20 years. Last quarter, our economy grew at 4.2 percent. For perspective on that, during President Obama's term, the economy only grew at an average of 1.9 percent. Last month, wages grew at the fastest rate in 9 years; consumer confidence in our economy is the highest since October 2000; and just yesterday, small business optimism surged to the highest level ever recorded, passing the record that was set during President Reagan's Presidency. Jobless claims are at the lowest rate since December 6, 1969, and this summer, the U.S. had more job openings than job seekers for the first time in history. These numbers are great news for the millions of families across America, but these numbers didn't happen by accident. I look forward to further discussion tonight about how we are working every day to make America better off now. At this time, I am pleased to yield to the gentlewoman from Tennessee (Mrs. Black).

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Olson).

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Texas, appreciate all of that information, talking about the positive impact that is happening all across America with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. When we talk about are you really better off now, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is one of those great examples of something that has been accomplished over the last 2 years. The act itself just helped jump-start our economy. It repealed the ObamaCare individual mandate penalty. The standard deduction was nearly doubled, up to $12,000 for single filers, to $18,000 for a head of household, and to $24,000 for joint filers. The child tax credit for families was doubled from $1,000 to $2,000, and individual along with business tax rates were cut across the board for every tax bracket. That means this year a middle-class family of four in Kansas will keep an extra $2,100 of their hard-earned money in their pocket, money they can use, save for their retirement, save for their children's college education, or maybe go out for a dinner and a movie. The law also cut corporate rates from 35 percent, which was the fourth highest rate in the world and the highest amongst the developed world, to a competitive 21 percent, encouraging businesses to expand and to reinvest in America again. So far, more than 700 companies around the country have done just that, benefiting millions of hardworking families with bonuses, higher wages, and better benefits. In Kansas, 24 businesses with more than 700 locations statewide have boosted wages and benefits for tens of thousands of employees. During the August work period, I was able to visit with employees at some of those companies, including Legacy Bank. Legacy Bank is a community-based bank based in Colwich, Kansas, with roots dating back to 1885. Today, Legacy Bank operates eight branches throughout my district and has 81 employees. In July, Legacy Bank became one of the latest companies in my district to announce a midyear bonus of up to $1,000 per employee. In August, I met with employees and the board of directors, who told me the bonuses would not have been possible without the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Also, last month I met with workers from Textron Aviation Facilities in Wichita. In an earlier meeting, Textron officials had said the tax reforms of 2017 have strengthened the environment for aircraft sales in the United States and the outlook remains positive. Textron now has the largest backlog of orders in 8 years, supporting thousands of jobs in our community, which we proudly call the air capital of the world. Our district is also home to the largest tax cut bonus in the country. After the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed, Wichita Railway Systems, a railroad car parts supplier, turned their tax cut into $3,000 to $6,000 bonuses for its employees. The Wichita Business Journal reported that these bonuses would have otherwise gone toward corporate income tax and on to the government. During a visit there, the CEO of the small manufacturing company said employees receiving the bonus would turn right around and invest in the economy, showing how these bonuses not only benefit the workers and their families, but also the entire community. Other employees who are better off now thanks to the tax cuts include Fidelity Bank, which announced $1,500 bonuses for its 400 Wichita area employees. Cox Communications announced $1,000 to $2,000 bonuses for their 900 area employees. Mahaney Roofing in Wichita has been able to hire more employees thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. And Wichita's largest employer, Spirit AeroSystems, announced new investments in technology and training to help the rising demand in 2018. These numbers show the economic growth and optimism happening in my State and around the country because of tax reform. And, more importantly, behind each statistic are people who are finally better off now. Recently, my colleague Representative Brad Wenstrup from Ohio pointed out that the critics who proclaim that tax cuts only help billionaires could not be further from the truth. Over $1.1 trillion in tax relief, or 77 percent of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, goes directly to families and small businesses. Over one-half of the 2019 individual tax cuts, or $133 billion, go to those earning under $200,000. Middle-income families see larger percentage reductions in their taxes than wealthier families. A typical married couple with two kids earning $73,000 would see a tax cut of over $2,000, a reduction in their income taxes of nearly 60 percent. The bill didn't just help the rich. Under the new tax law, the share of taxes paid by millionaires actually increases from 19.3 percent to 19.8 percent. Also, when American companies are doing well, workers do well. Just ask one of the 4 million workers who saw a benefit or pay raise due to the tax reform. I would also like to point out that companies who had previously stashed money abroad are bringing it back to the United States thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Our Tax Code penalized companies that did successfully operate overseas, and we wanted to tax them. Our Tax Code wanted to tax them a second time for them to bring their money back home. So, typically, these companies would only bring about $50 billion in earnings abroad every quarter. In the first 3 months of this year, they brought $158 billion back to the U.S. According to Bloomberg, that is the biggest reversal on record since 1946. In addition, dividends received from abroad totaled $340 billion in the first 3 months of 2018, which is also a record. This money can be put to work in the United States either investing in a new plant, paying for bonuses or salary increases, paying dividends, or buying back stock. But at the end of the day, America is richer because of it, and we are all better off now. Families from the heartland and throughout our country are also better off thanks to lower utility rates that are a direct result of the tax reform: expanded family savings programs for education and retirement; in efforts to reduce crime in our communities, including human trafficking. We have also invested $2 billion to address school safety and mental health issues. A new Career and Technical Education Act for the 21st Century is allowing more students to pursue career and technical programs at institutions like Wichita State University Tech. One of the things that I am seeing as I travel across the district is that we have a drastic shortage of an educated workforce to help fill these jobs, and we wanted to make sure that, in utilizing the Career and Technical Education Act, we get more people to be supplied as welders, auto mechanics, airplane mechanics, electronics technicians, and sheet metal workers. Provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also help promote rural broadband expansion. Last month, I visited with Butler Rural Electric Co-Op, which said they are now able to provide faster internet to residents in rural parts of my district. In June, the House passed a package of 58 bills to combat the opioid epidemic. This was the most significant effort by Congress against a single drug crisis in history, as we have invested $4 billion to address this epidemic. Just to talk a little bit about that epidemic, in 2016, 313 people died from an opioid overdose in Kansas, leaving thousands of family members and friends to cope with the loss. In 2018, more than 2 million Americans will suffer from an opioid addiction. In June, when the House passed the 58 bills, we wanted to focus on this being the most significant effort by Congress to make sure that this drug crisis is addressed and resolved. Last year's spending bill that spends the $4 billion to address this epidemic is being used to help law enforcement efforts, funding new treatment and prevention efforts and increasing inspection and surveillance to stop the flow of drugs into our country. Human trafficking has become a major problem across the country. This year, House Republicans have passed dozens of bills to fight human trafficking, including the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act, the Department of Homeland Security Blue Campaign Authorization Act, the No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act, and the Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles Act, which have been signed into law. As a result, online advertising for commercial sex trafficking has gone down by 60 to 80 percent. In another area, in May, Congress sent the Trickett Wendler, Frank Mongiello, Jordan McLinn, and Matthew Bellina Right to Try Act of 2018 to President Trump. As Speaker Ryan said, terminally ill patients and their loved ones deserve the opportunity, wherever possible, to take advantage of an offer that may provide them a chance for a longer life. For patients who may not qualify for certain trials or who have tried other options of approved medication, this bill would allow them access to experimental treatments and therapies. After all, it should be their choice of what they do, to help them have that opportunity and the right to try. The good news doesn't stop with our economy and with our families. Veterans and our armed services have been a priority in this Congress. This year Congress passed the VA MISSION Act, which revolutionizes healthcare for veterans by streamlining services and ensuring veterans get the care they deserve from the VA or from their private doctor closer to home. This is the biggest improvement in veterans healthcare in 5 years and will build on the Choice Act to fulfill our promise to veterans by allocating $5.2 billion to pay healthcare costs through the Veterans Choice Fund, expanding eligibility in the VA's caregiver program, and improving healthcare delivery, including telemedicine, mental health support, peer-to-peer support, and mobile deployment teams for rural and underserved veterans for routine and specialized care. Also for veterans, the Affordable Housing Credit Improvement Act that we passed in Congress is helping establish affordable housing communities for senior citizens and veterans, like the two that recently opened in my district. Last month, I was able to join one of those communities specifically designed for veterans for the ribbon- cutting ceremony. One veteran who participated told local media: This is a miracle right here. God has done a lot of miracles in my life. This is one of the top ones. Since President Trump signed the VA MISSION Act on June 6, 2018, which happens to be D-day, it has helped revolutionize healthcare for veterans by making sure that they get the options, the choices, and the right to the care that they so richly deserve. We have also focused on: How do we help our Active-Duty military servicemembers? We passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which invests $700 billion in rebuilding our military. It provides our troops the largest pay raise in 9 years. It supports more aircraft, like the KC-46 tankers from McConnell Air Force Base in my district. It shot down an increase of fees in TRICARE for retirees. It allows former prisoners of war, Medal of Honor winners, and service-connected disability veterans to access the commissaries starting in 2020. A sad note: There are 22 veterans a day who commit suicide. What we have done is, as Congress, passed five comprehensive bills to address this epidemic: House Amendment 769 appropriates no less than $225 million for VA mental health and suicide prevention programs; H.R. 4635 directs the VA to emphasize peer support counselors for female veterans who, among other things, are also at risk of suicide; H.R. 4173 directs the VA to conduct studies on outcomes and efficacy of the Veterans Crisis Line and report to Congress the results; H.R. 2345 requires the FCC to coordinate with HHS and the VA in studying the feasibility of designing a three-digit dialing code for a national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline system; and H.R. 918 directs the VA to furnish former members of the Armed Forces an initial mental health assessment and mental healthcare services required to treat urgent mental healthcare needs, including the risk of suicide or harm to others. There are many things that we have accomplished. There are still more things to do. This week, we are going to vote to give the VA the largest dollar amount in history, which includes: $206 million for suicide prevention outreach, for a total of $8.6 billion for mental healthcare programs; $192 million for the inspector general, $25 million above fiscal year 2018, to provide the resources needed to investigate the overwhelming number of allegations being reported with regard to waste, claims processing backlogs, and general accountability; Fully funds family housing at $1.6 billion, $173 million above the fiscal year 2018 enacted levels for the families of those who serve; and $1.8 billion to homeless veterans programs. Overall, there are just so many positive things that have been accomplished over the last 2 years when we look at are we all better off now. I have talked a lot about some of the impacts of the various bills that we have passed, some of the benefits that affect people in my district and people in the State of Kansas. I have here a list numerous companies throughout the State that have taken advantage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and I am going to read just a few of those and a brief description of what they did. The Lawrence Paper Company in Lawrence, Kansas, gave $500 bonuses for all 300 employees and spent $5 million for new equipment and expansion at all three locations. Spirit AeroSystems increased investment in training and technology. Westar Energy filed a request before the Kansas Corporation Commission to reflect that its electric rates ought to be reduced by the full amount of tax savings from the change in the Federal tax law. AT&T offered $1,000 bonuses for 1,500 Kansas employees. Walmart employees at 75 different Walmart stores throughout the State received tax reform bonuses, wage increases, and expanded maternity and paternity leave. Best Buy, which has 12 locations in Kansas, offered $1,000 bonuses to their full-time employees and $500 bonuses to part-time employees. And even small businesses like Taco John's, which has 19 locations in Kansas, all full-time and part-time crew members received a $200 after- tax bonus. Other companies that offered benefits--may not run the normal thought of what you think about--but companies like Waste Management Incorporated, which has multiple locations in Kansas, paid $2,000 bonuses. I have a myriad of other companies that have taken advantage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that we have implemented, and reflect that not only are they, as companies, better off now, but their employees are better off now, as well. In closing, altogether these actions have encouraged rapid growth in our economy, security for our families, and support for our veterans and military. Don't get me wrong. There is more to do. Healthcare premiums increased $4,400 per family from 2010 to 2016. We still have too many veterans needing healthcare and jobs. There is more to do to help small businesses grow, help families save for college or retirement, and support our farmers and our manufacturers. In the coming weeks, I am glad we will debate tax reform 2.0 to unleash another round of economic growth by protecting middle-class individuals and small business tax cuts from going up in the future, expanding educational and retirement savings options, and supporting entrepreneurs. But today, I am proud of what we have accomplished thus far because of businesses like BG Products, Inc., based in Wichita, Kansas. The automotive maintenance supply manufacturer was established in 1971 by a group of World War II veterans and automotive industry experts. Over time, BG Products, grew from an idea to an industry leader. Its products manufactured in our community are used and sold in all 50 States, in more than 60 countries, by more than 40,000 shops, dealerships, and technicians. However, 2 years ago, BG Products was at a crossroads, determining whether or not to expand based on the economy and the climate of government regulations. Following the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, BG Products was able to push forward with plans to expand, putting new tax savings directly toward new building projects and jobs. In July, BG Products represented Kansas in an event honoring products that are made in America. Following their White House appearance, I visited employees at BG Products and toured their 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in El Dorado where we discussed their plans to expand. Finally, on August 24, BG Products broke ground on a 145,000- square-foot edition in El Dorado, investing $24.5 million in our community and adding 21 new jobs. This kind of expansion would not have been possible without our growing economy. Like BG Products, Inc., today our economy and our country is strong and is better off now. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all of my fellow Representatives who supported the various bills that we have passed over the last 2 years to help make my district, my State of Kansas, and my country stronger and better off now. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all of my fellow Members who spoke on the bill today, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to offer thanks to the Wichita Police Department, FBI, and ICE for making a series of arrests last month to help end human trafficking in my community in Wichita, Kansas. On August 23, several raids began after an investigation into possible child sex trafficking led to a tip from a 15-year-old female victim. Information this brave young girl provided led to the arrest of eight people for charges of aggravated human trafficking, as well as illegal firearms, drug possession, and rape. This would not have been possible without the partnership between the local Wichita police, the FBI, and the Homeland Security Investigations unit of ICE. People may not be aware, but human trafficking is one of the most heinous crimes investigated by ICE. Rather than disavow ICE and all law enforcement, these brave men and women deserve our support for their service. So, Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Homeland Security Committee, and Representative from Wichita, I ask my colleagues to join me today in thanking all law enforcement for keeping communities like mine safe.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 1635, the Empowering Students Through Enhanced Financial Counseling Act. As a member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce and a father of three, I value the importance of higher education and making sure everyone has a way to pay for it. For the last decade, a generation of students have graduated college with massive debt and little prospects for a job. Thankfully, today, unemployment is at a historic low, and for the first time ever, we have more job openings than job seekers. Our economy is finally on the move, but the burden of student debt remains. In fact, Americans currently have more than $1.4 trillion in student debt. Unfortunately, much of this aid was received without adequate information about how to make the best financial choices. Currently, individuals receiving student financial loans must complete a one-time entrance counseling session, but this counseling can occur after the students have already signed up to take out the loan and is not required for those who receive Pell grants. Before completing classes, students must complete exit counseling. However, this information is very general, rather than being specific to the individual's specific situation. These generic counseling sessions have failed our country and not helped students to put themselves on financially sound footing. That is why I am proud to support H.R. 1635. This bill ensures borrowers who participate in a Federal loan program or receive a Pell grant get targeted counseling every year and not just once they enter and exit the program. It also provides awareness about financial obligation borrowers are accumulating by requiring the borrower's consent each year before receiving Federal student loans. These steps give students the tools they need to be financially responsible, while having the opportunities to get the education they deserve. Mr. Chair, I want to thank my colleagues on the Committee on Education and the Workforce for recognizing the importance of financial literacy and bringing forth this legislation that will help families in Kansas and throughout the country. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Education and the Workforce Committee, and representative of Kansas' manufacturing hub known as the Air Capital of the World . . . I have heard repeatedly about the skills gap facing employers and today's labor force. For a generation . . . many have stressed the importance of a 4-year degree over that of a technical skill. While a 4-year degree remains vitally important . . . we must not forget the equal need for career and technical education . . . especially when our economy now has more job openings than qualified applicants. That's why I'm proud to support H.R. 2353. This bipartisan bill helps more Americans enter the workforce with skills they need to succeed. The bill provides local leaders more resources and flexibility to adapt to changing education and economic needs; supports more collaboration between employers and educators to close the skills gap; streamlines performance measures for CTE programs; and reigns in Washington's control over individual curriculums and performance. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of two bills being considered today as part of our overall goal to improve healthcare for families across the country. Currently, ObamaCare is broken. As I mentioned in an opinion piece, from 2010 to 2016, health insurance premiums increased by nearly $4,400 per family. This year, health insurance costs rose about 30 percent and are expected to go up an additional 10 to 20 percent in 2019. These skyrocketing costs are not due to some sabotage, as some folks have suggested. Instead, they are a product of a system that was designed and destined to fail. Today, we all recognize that ObamaCare has failed to provide insurance for all Americans. Rather than create more government-run healthcare, we need competition and free market solutions like health savings accounts to put patients in control of their own healthcare. That is why I am proud to support H.R. 6199, the Restoring Access to Medication Act of 2018, sponsored by Representative Lynn Jenkins and Representative Grace Meng. H.R. 6199 repeals provisions of the Affordable Care Act that restrict health savings accounts, medical savings accounts, health flexible spending arrangements, and health reimbursement arrangements to only be used for prescription drugs or insulin. Removing these restrictions will allow people to use such accounts for over-the-counter drugs. I am also proud to support H.R. 6311, the Increasing Access to Lower Premium Plans and Expanding Health Savings Accounts Act of 2018, sponsored by Representatives Peter Roskam and Michael Burgess. H.R. 6311 provides relief from ObamaCare's rising premiums and limited choices by allowing the premium tax credit to be used for plans offered outside of ObamaCare exchanges. The bill also expands access to the lowest premium plans for people purchasing coverage in the individual market and allows the premium tax credit to be used to offset the cost of such plans. These measures increase competition for consumers and seek to drive down the cost of health insurance. I want to thank the Ways and Means Committee for bringing forward thoughtful healthcare solutions that will help American families. I urge my colleagues to support both bills.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5613, to designate the Quindaro Townsite in Kansas City, Kansas, a national commemorative site. Quindaro was founded in 1857 to provide a safe haven for antislavery activists moving into Kansas during the struggle to help make the territory a free State. Located on the banks of the Missouri River, the site quickly became a vital port and a stop on the Underground Railroad. Although the town dwindled after Kansas became a State, Quindaro's short but rich history is an important reminder of Kansas' role in our Nation's history. Currently, the site sits on the National Register of Historic Places. However, designating Quindaro a national commemorative site would qualify the downtown for additional Federal assistance as Quindaro pursues the ultimate goal of being a national historic landmark. H.R. 5613 is a great step forward in that process and will help preserve an important piece of Kansas and American history. I am proud to cosponsor this bill, and I thank Representative Kevin Yoder for bringing it forward. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the Dockum Drugstore sit-in. In 1958, 20-year-old Ron Walters and his cousin, Carol Parks-Hahn, were inspired by a California campus restaurant sit-in, the Little Rock Nine, and the Montgomery bus boycott. Bravely seeking to challenge the status quo of segregation in Wichita, they planned a sit-in at a downtown drugstore with a lunch counter for White customers only. On July 19, 10 students walked into the Dockum Drugstore and sat down. They were described as well dressed and polite, and sought only to be served a soft drink at the counter. For 3 weeks, the students entered the drugstore every day, boldly sitting through cursing, questioning, and even threats. Finally, on August 11, the store manager declared: ``Serve them. I'm losing too much money.'' Following their success, similar efforts became a hallmark of the civil rights movement. And today, on this 60th anniversary, their actions continue to inspire. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful these young men and women took action to end segregation in their community.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to support amendment No. 62 to H.R. 6147. This amendment modernizes the Endangered Species Act and recognizes voluntary conservation efforts to protect the lesser prairie chicken. In 2015, the species native to western Kansas was inaccurately listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act due to a multiyear drought. Since then, Kansas farmers and ranchers have devoted millions of dollars toward successful conservation through a range-wide plan. This along with increased rainfall has led to an increase in the lesser prairie chicken population. However, recently, the push to list the species as endangered was restarted, disregarding these voluntary efforts. I am glad this amendment recognizes the private conservation efforts toward the lesser prairie chicken. I cosponsored a similar measure in the farm bill, and I appreciate Representatives Pearce and Marshall for offering this amendment. I ask my colleagues to support it.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I have the great privilege to introduce the House to our guest chaplain, Father Dan Spexarth of Wichita, Kansas. As an ordained minister for more than 30 years, Father Spexarth has served six parishes in our community, including St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Wichita since 2008. Father Spexarth was born and raised on a wheat farm near Colwich, Kansas. And after graduating from the seminary, we are fortunate Father Spexarth returned to our community. Father Spexarth has been a tireless servant of God, leading an active parish committed to serving those in need in our community and throughout the world. As Congress addresses many complex issues facing our Nation, I am humbled by the opportunity to host Father Spexarth and thankful that we can join together in prayer for our country. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming Father Dan Spexarth, and thank him for offering today's opening prayer in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer thoughts and prayers to the families of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Andale, Kansas. For nearly 125 years, the parish of St. Joseph has been a pillar of west Sedgwick County and our entire community. On Sunday morning, several hours before parishioners were to arrive for 8 a.m. Mass, it is believed a lightning strike caused a fire which soon engulfed the entire attic and roof. Two firefighters were injured responding to the fire which was contained after several hours. Thankfully, the firefighters treated for smoke inhalation and burns were released from the hospital. In a demonstration of the spirit in our community, nearby Andale High School was quick to open its doors and the church was able to celebrate 10 a.m. Mass. I am confident that this resilient community will continue to join together to help Father Daryl Befort and all the parishioners in St. Joseph as they begin the long and difficult task of rebuilding their church. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in keeping St. Joseph and our first responders in our thoughts and prayers at this time.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4760, Securing America's Future Act. Mr. Speaker, our immigration system is broken. For decades, administrations have offered temporary fixes or chosen to not enforce certain provisions of the law. However, the election of President Trump shows a clear desire by the American people to fix our broken immigration system and secure our border. The Securing America's Future Act addresses these issues and provides needed solutions. The bill secures our border by authorizing a wall, providing new border technology, and putting more boots on the ground. The bill refocuses legal immigration on skills that are needed by ending the visa lottery program and chain migration. It also prevents future illegal immigration by mandating E-Verify for employers and cracking down on sanctuary cities. Important for my State of Kansas, this bill includes H-2C agricultural visas which allows people to come work and provide the skills our farmers need. Finally, this bill gives stability to children brought here illegally by providing a renewable legal status as long as recipients pay taxes and obey the law, without providing a special path to citizenship because no one should get to jump the line.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 267 on Agreeing to the Amendment, the Thornberry of Texas Part A Amendment No. 4. Had I been present, I would have voted yea. I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 268 on Passage of H.R. 2851. Had I been present, I would have voted yea.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the grand opening of the Wichita Advanced Learning Library on June 16, 2018. The Wichita Advanced Learning Library has been a central project for Kansas' largest city since 2006. After breaking ground on the project 2 years ago, it will be an honor to attend the grand opening of the library this Saturday. The old library was built more than 50 years ago. At that time, there was no such thing as a personal computer, phones were simply used for making phone calls, and Wichita had a population of less than 250,000. With the opening of the new library, Wichita and the surrounding region will now have a state-of-the-art facility ready to handle our growing population and advances in digital technology. These advances will provide students with enrichment opportunities in all areas, including STEM, which is increasingly important for the workforce of the future. As a member of the Education and the Workforce Committee, I understand the importance of education, and I am proud of the city of Wichita for moving forward with the Advanced Learning Library, allowing our students and community members of all ages to continue the pathway to a lifetime of learning.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 258 on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended, H.R. 5237. Had I been present, I would have voted Yea. I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 259 on Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended, H.R. 5041. Had I been present, I would have voted Yea. I was not present for Roll Call vote No. 260 on Approval of the Journal. Had I been present, I would have voted Yea.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3331, encouraging the adoption of electronic health record technology by behavioral health providers. The Meaningful Use Program has been instrumental in providing incentives to eligible clinicians to use electronic health record technology. Unfortunately, behavioral health providers have been left out of this program. H.R. 3331, sponsored by Rep. Lynn Jenkins, would incentivize psychiatric hospitals, community health centers and substance use treatment facilities to use the electronic health record technology. Mental health includes emotional, psychological and social well-being and affects how individuals think, feel and act. This bill is an important step in ensuring medical providers have access to records for both mental and physical health, so that we can improve care coordination and meet the needs of patients. Rep. Jenkins has been a champion for mental health reform and I look forward to continuing our work on this important issue.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3, the Spending Cuts to Expired and Unnecessary Programs Act. These spending cuts, or rescissions, address the desire by President Trump and many in Congress to begin the long overdue process of reigning in government spending. This package is important because, as an engineer, businessman, and former State treasurer, I know you can't build a strong economy on debt and borrowed money. Spending money we don't have on things we don't need increases our unsustainable $21 trillion national debt and mortgages the future for our kids and grandkids. But reducing the size and scope of government isn't about budget number, it is about returning freedom and liberty to the American people. It is also common sense. Kansas families have to live within their means. Our Federal Government should be no different. H.R. 3 is a great first step. Today's spending cuts will save the taxpayers $15 billion, the largest rescission package since the tool was adopted in 1974, which comes from programs that have expired or can no longer be used. If we don't pass this rescission bill, it is like leaving cash lying around the kitchen table, the silverware drawer, or in the corner. It may leave the money available for use, but it is a poor way to manage the taxpayers' dollars. Returning the money to our treasury allows us to make investments in other needed areas without raising taxes or spending money we don't have. Over the past 2 years, Republicans in Congress have jump-started our economy through the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and slashing government red tape and regulation. This has helped our economy reach the lowest unemployment rate in nearly 20 years. However, now is the time we need to get serious about cutting spending, and today's vote is a great first step. I look forward to passage of H.R. 3 and to identifying even more ways to cut spending, as well as reforming entitlements and quasi- entitlements and growing our economy in the future.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman, my friend from Louisiana, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is helping families and businesses in my home State of Kansas and throughout our country. Since Republicans in Congress and the President enacted tax reform, 400 companies have announced $4 billion in bonuses and investments, impacting 4 million workers. In my community, Spirit AeroSystems announced new investments in training and technology. Fidelity Bank announced $1,500 bonuses for its 400 Wichita area employees. Cox Communications announced up to $2,000 bonuses for its 900 area employees. Recently, small businessowner Bob Aldrich of railroad car parts supplier, Wichita Railway Services, gave his employees $3,000 to $6,000 bonuses, the largest in the country, thanks to the new law. In addition to the bonuses and the new jobs being created, 90 percent of Americans began seeing more monthly take-home pay in February. For Kansans, that meant a middle class family of four will see a tax cut of nearly $2,300. These numbers are not crumbs. No, they are not crumbs at all for millions of families across the country. And despite those doomsday predictions, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is already boosting our economy. Just last week, the unemployment rate fell again to 3.8 percent, the lowest in 18 years. And when families and businesses file next year under the new Tax Code, hardworking Americans will keep even more of their money. In fact, Wichita tax accountant Archie Macias analyzed his clients' 2017 tax returns and found that approximately 95 percent of his clients will pay less in taxes next year due to the new law. These numbers are staggering. But behind all of these statistics are people. Whether it is a small general aviation parts manufacturer in Newton or a wheat farmer in Pratt, Kansans from all backgrounds and in all sectors are seeing growth in our economy once again. Republicans are delivering on our promise to cut taxes and cut regulations, and I look forward to continuing our pro-growth agenda to help American workers and their families.

Mr. ESTES of Kansas

Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the new title X regulations announced by the Trump administration's Department of Health and Human Services. Title X is a family planning program authorized in 1970 to provide family planning services to low-income women. Currently, Congress approves $286 million a year to provide these family planning services like: education, counseling, health screenings, and healthcare. For years, pro-life protections like the Hyde amendment sought to ensure tax dollars, including title X funds, would not go to abortion providers. However, the Clinton-era title X regulations have sadly mandated that all grantees refer abortions as part of their family planning services and created loopholes allowing title X funding to flow to organizations which provide abortions, such as Planned Parenthood. Under these Clinton-era regulations, Planned Parenthood has been able to receive an average of $56 million in taxes each year from title X. Clearly, that is not in line with the intent of the title X family planning program and it is past time to change. I was proud to help lead the effort in Congress to urge the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar to update title X guidelines with those similar to regulations in place during the Reagan era. These Reagan regulations--which were upheld by the Supreme Court in 1991--were rolled back by the Clinton administration and have remained in place since then. However, today, thanks to President Trump and his administration, we turn this page and mark a historic victory for life. This week the Trump administration will unveil new regulations called the Protect Life Rule which will prohibit any organization that performs or refers abortions from receiving title X family planning funds. The Protect Life Rule will mandate that title X grant recipients be physically and financially separate from facilities that provide abortions, closing for good that loophole that has allowed organizations like Planned Parenthood to receive title X funding. Currently, Planned Parenthood conducts 320,000 abortions every year and receives nearly $60 million in tax dollars annually. Implementing the Protect Life Rule will save thousands of innocent lives and ensure that title X funding supports actual family planning, not abortions. The Protect Life Rule will also increase safeguards for victims of sexual assault, these victims who have already been abused. Implementing the Protect Life Rule will not cut any funds that go toward family planning to support mothers and families every day. In fact, it will provide more money net for legitimate family planning activities. To suggest otherwise, would be a politically motivated lie to the American people. Contrary to the doomsday rhetoric used by pro-abortion advocates, this is a great day for life and families across America. I want to thank dozens of pro-life grassroots organizations and more than 150 of my colleagues from the House and Senate who joined this effort to push back for the new title X regulations--especially Representatives Black, Hartzler, and Smith. I also want to thank President Trump and his administration for issuing the Protect Life Rule, heeding our calls and the calls of millions of Americans who have long demanded that tax dollars not go to abortion providers, just as the law was intended. President Trump ran as a pro-life candidate, and the Protect Life Rule is just the latest example of how the President and Republicans in Congress believe in keeping our promises to the American people. The Protect Life Rule is a win for millions of Americans who have marched for life in our Nation's Capital and the millions more who have marched throughout our country, including in my home State of Kansas. I look forward to the implementation of the Protect Life Rule.