Deb Fischer

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 10 a.m., in room SD-366 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on the Judiciary be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 10 a.m., in room SD-226 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 10 a.m.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Foreign Relations, Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing entitled ``A Progress Report on the West Africa Ebola Epidemic.''

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Select Committee on Intelligence be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 2 p.m., in room SH-219 of the Hart Senate Office Building.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on April 7, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I rise to discuss an important matter before the Senate, the reauthorization of our Nation's Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA is tasked with a critical mission to manage the safety and the security of our Nation's airspace. Our Nation's airspace is an incredible resource that fuels our economy. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, in 2015, a record 896 million passengers traversed America's skies. Our aviation system contributes $1.5 trillion to our Nation's economy and it supports 11.8 million jobs for hard-working Americans, as noted by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. The Senate's FAA reauthorization bill will make our aviation system stronger for families, children, veterans, and the traveling public. It will also benefit Nebraska's rural airports and local aviation stakeholders. Notably, this carefully negotiated bill will strengthen America's aviation system without raising fees or taxes on airline passengers. Our robust, bipartisan legislation includes several major priorities I championed. I am proud of bipartisan language I worked to include in the bill, along with Senators Booker, Cantwell, and Ayotte. Our provision would compel the FAA to work with the airline industry to comprehensively assess and update guidelines for emergency medical kits on commercial aircraft. These kits, which haven't been statutorily updated since 1998, provide lifesaving resources for passengers. It is well past time for the FAA to evaluate medications and equipment included in these kits. Doing so will ensure all passengers, particularly families with young infants facing unknown allergic reactions, have access to the medical supplies they might need in an emergency situation. In addition, I worked with Senator McCaskill to include an amendment that would make it easier for traveling mothers to care for their young infants. Our amendment unanimously passed the Commerce Committee. We worked closely with airport stakeholders, including Omaha's Eppley Airfield, to establish reasonable minimum standards for both medium- and large-hub airports to develop private rooms for nursing mothers in future capital development plans. Traveling as a new mom can be challenging and it can be stressful at times, but I believe this important change will provide increased flexibility and also peace of mind for mothers traveling through airports across our country. I also joined Senator Hirono to include an amendment that would ensure disabled veterans working at the FAA have access to service- connected disability leave. The FAA was one of the few agencies not included in the recently passed Wounded Warriors Federal Leave Act. That bill required Federal agencies to ensure disabled vets have access to service-connected disability leave. Our disabled veterans bravely served our country, and they deserve access to benefits they have earned. I am grateful for the achievements this bill will advance for the flying public. At the same time, the bill is also a victory for Nebraska's rural communities and airports. The Small Airport Regulation Relief Act, which is included in the FAA bill, would create a temporary exemption for small airports so they can continue to receive airport improvement program funds--those AIP funds--despite downturns in air service. The survival of smaller airports, such as Scottsbluff's Western Nebraska Regional Airport, depends on these crucial funds to provide service to local passengers and businesses. Several of Nebraska's small and community airports, such as Alliance, Chadron, Grand Island, McCook, North Platte, and Scottsbluff, will also benefit from a continuation of the Essential Air Service, or EAS, Program. The EAS Program incentivizes air carriers to provide service to underserved and rural areas, and it is critical to ensuring air service continues for Nebraska's rural communities. Meanwhile, the Central Nebraska Regional Airport in Grand Island is growing and hosts a privately operated Federal contract tower. I encouraged the inclusion of provisions to compel the FAA to complete a pending cost-benefit analysis for Federal contract tower airports. This analysis would reflect the cost-share arrangement more accurately between our local airports and the FAA for those contract towers. Through this legislation, we can help to reduce the burden on local airports such as Grand Island, NE. One of the major challenges facing aviation manufacturers has been the FAA's inconsistent and often unclear regulatory process. I collaborated with Duncan Aviation of Lincoln, NE, the largest family- owned maintenance, repair, and overhaul organization in the world, to address this challenge. In fact, Chairman Thune toured the facilities at Duncan Aviation with me in Lincoln last fall. Our bill would provide clarity to aviation businesses like Duncan Aviation by compelling the FAA to establish a centralized safety guidance database. Moreover, the bill would require the FAA to establish a Regulatory Consistency Communications Board. The Board would set standards to ensure the consistent application of regulations and guidance at regional offices throughout our country. Agricultural aviators in Nebraska will also benefit from safety enhancements in this bill. Far too many of our agricultural pilots have died in recent years after collisions with unmarked utility towers. This legislation would ensure that towers are marked to create safer skies for our agriculture pilots. Passing our FAA bill will be a major accomplishment for the Senate. I appreciate and commend the hard work of Chairman Thune, Ranking Member Nelson, and their committee staffers on this meaningful FAA reauthorization bill. In the coming days, I look forward to working together to help pass this critical legislation that will benefit the flying public, our national aviation system, and Nebraska's rural airports and aviation stakeholders. Mr. President, I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, I rise today to continue my tribute to Nebraska's heroes and the current generation of men and women who lost their lives defending our freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each of these Nebraskans has a special story to tell. Throughout this year and beyond, I will continue to honor their memory here on the Senate floor. First Lieutenant Jacob Fritz Today, I wish to highlight the life of 1LT Jacob Fritz of Verdon, NE. Jake, as he was known to his friends and loved ones, grew up on his family's farm near Verdon, NE, a town with fewer than 200 people. While attending Dawson-Verdon High School, Jake thrived and stood out as a model student. He was an all-around athlete and played the baritone in the honor band. He was also passionate about helping others in need and regularly devoted his time to organizations that combat substance abuse in Verdon and around the State. Jake's former principal, John Eickhoff, described him as ``a great kid, student and athlete.'' Principal Eickhoff recalls, ``If I had a school full of Jacob Fritzes, I wouldn't have had anything to do.'' When Jake entered his senior year in high school, his focus remained on his commitment to helping others, and he began pursuing a career in the U.S. military. His mother Noala recalls Jake's dream of serving his country, which was inspired by his grandfather, a retired Air Force officer. Karen Mezger, a family friend, recalls that Jake wanted to have a career in the Army and more than anything come back to Verdon and live the life of a gentleman farmer. With the support of his family and the nomination from then-Senator Chuck Hagel, Jake left Nebraska in June of 2000 to begin his first year at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. As soon as he arrived, Jake earned the reputation among his fellow cadets as a warm and supportive person. His friend, 1LT Travis Reinfold, recalls Jake's midwestern values. ``I called him `Jolly Jake,' '' Lieutenant Reinfold remembers, ``because no matter who you were, he always gave you a warm country smile.'' Lieutenant Reinfold also noted Jake's superb voice as a member of the West Point Glee Club. His voice was always filled with conviction and beauty, particularly when singing the hymn ``Mansions of the Lord.'' After 4 years, Jake graduated from West Point with a bachelor's degree in systems engineering. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army on May 28, 2005. Following speciality training, Jake was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, at Fort Richardson, AK. Not long after Jake's arrival at Fort Richardson, the 2nd Battalion was deployed to Iraq. It was 2006, and the war was escalating. The insurgency was in full force and threatening to erase the progress made by American troops. By the end of that year, President Bush announced a counterassault known as the ``surge'' and deployed an additional 30,000 troops to the region. Lieutenant Fritz joined this effort and routinely volunteered at Forward Operating Base Karbala to assist Iraqi soldiers. Jake had a natural instinct to step up and take charge. He felt an obligation and a commitment to the mission, which often required volunteering for these types of assignments. But shortly after Jake arrived at Karbala, all hell broke loose. On January 20, 2007, enemy militants disguised as friendly soldiers entered the base and attacked. In a matter of minutes, Lieutenant Fritz and three other American soldiers were captured. The militants rushed Jake and the other hostages east towards Mahawil. American troops quickly located their trail and they followed in hot pursuit. Shortly after crossing the Euphrates River and with American forces gaining, the militants attempted to hasten their escape by executing the four captives. The American soldiers were stripped of their identification and shot as the militants fled the scene, and Jake was mortally wounded. As his heartless murderers fled into the abyss, Jake realized his body might not be identified, and so in a final act of bravery, he managed to scrawl a few letters in the dust of an abandoned vehicle. So when the American troops arrived at the scene, they saw his body and the word ``Fritz.'' Back in Verdon, NE, it was a snowy day in late January of 2007. Jake's mother Noala arrived home to find two strange cars in the driveway. Men dressed in uniform approached her as she walked to the back door. She instinctively knew why they were there, and she refused to listen to the words no mother should ever hear. It was clear that her son would not be coming home. First Lieutenant Jacob Fritz was laid to rest on January 31, 2007. He received full military honors, and he was buried in a church ceremony just 4 miles from his home. Family and friends paid their final respects in a moving service that honored the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of this local hero. Jake was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Prisoner of War Medal, and the Combat Action Badge. His two younger brothers later followed in his footsteps, and they earned commissions in the Army. They serve to this day with the same distinction and the honor they learned from their big brother. Jake's mother retired from teaching and spends much of her time helping Gold Star families throughout Nebraska. Meanwhile, Jake's memory lives on in the hearts and minds of the State he served. Nebraskans are forever indebted to his sacrifice. First Lieutenant Jacob Fritz is a hero, and I am honored to tell his story. Thank you, Madam President. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, it is an honor to pay tribute to the late Justice Antonin Scalia. Justice Scalia was a staunch defender of the Constitution who, above all, sought to uphold the original meaning of its text. He steadfastly adhered to his oath of office, which directed him to ``administer justice without respect to persons, [to] do equal right to the poor and to the rich, and [to] faithfully and impartially discharge and perform all [his] duties . . . under the Constitution and laws of the United States.'' In doing so, he recognized this approach to judicial interpretation might conflict with popular opinion. As Justice Scalia once stated: ``If you're going to be a good and faithful judge, you have to resign yourself to the fact that you're not always going to like the conclusions you reach. If you like them all the time, you're probably doing something wrong.'' A few years ago, I had the privilege of visiting the Supreme Court to listen to oral arguments in the case of National Labor Relations Board v. Noel Canning, which concerned the scope of the President's authority to make recess appointments. I recall being struck by Justice Scalia's probing questions and his ability to immediately get to the crux of an issue; yet Justice Scalia never lacked civility when making an argument. As he once said, ``I attack ideas. I don't attack people. And some very good people have some very bad ideas.'' Justice Scalia was known for more than his jurisprudence. The son of immigrants and the first Italian American to serve on the Supreme Court, he is remembered by many for his strong belief in the American dream. A former law clerk recalled how he introduced Justice Scalia to his grandfather, a Holocaust survivor. The clerk's grandfather was nervous to meet a member of the Court, but Scalia embraced the man. He said he was honored to meet a man who represented everything that made him proud to be an American. Justice Scalia was also a loving husband to Maureen, his wife of 56 years, and the father of nine children and many grandchildren. Scalia often noted that his wife deserved all the credit for their children's accomplishments. Each year, the ranks of Scalia alumni would grow, and he would visit with each of them and their families, even nicknaming their children as his ``grandclerks.'' Justice Scalia was also a man of faith and looked to the Roman Catholic Church as a guiding force in his life. One of the Justice's former law clerks recalled that Scalia's faith inspired the clerk to deepen his own embrace of religion. Scalia loved hunting, the opera, anchovy pizza, and red wine. He was known for taking law clerks to lunch at A.V. Ristorante, an Italian restaurant in Washington that has since closed down. He insisted they order anchovy pizza and red wine, and he was said to be dismayed when a clerk declined one or the other. After A.V. Ristorante closed, he would lead clerks in a hunt for a worthy replacement. Of course, as Justice Breyer once noted, Justice Scalia ``loved nothing better than a great argument.'' Although he frequently disagreed with his colleagues on the Court, Justice Scalia formed deep bonds and friendships with his fellow Justices and respected their views. As Justice Breyer recalled: We both would hope that the audience of students or senators would leave not with a better sense of who was right, but with a greater respect for the institution we represented. They would see that sometimes we disagreed, that we nonetheless understood and paid attention to each other's points of view, that those views were serious views, and that we were friends. And we were good friends. When Justice Elena Kagan joined the Supreme Court the two became hunting buddies. A few times a year, they would go hunting together to enjoy a shared appreciation for this sport. But it was his deep friendship with Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg that was well known to many. She stated recently: ``How blessed I was to have a friend of such brilliance, high spirits, and quick wit . . . we were different, yes, yet one in our reverence for the court and its place in the U.S. system of governance.'' Justice Scalia will be remembered for his brilliant legal mind and faithful dedication to the Constitution. We will also remember his humor, his spirituality, his love for his family, and his ability to find common ground even in the face of disagreement. Let us pray for his family and friends as we proudly celebrate his service to our country.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, I rise today to discuss a bipartisan bill that ensures all Americans can access 911 in emergencies. In December of 2013, Kari Hunt was attacked in her Texas hotel room. As this was unfolding, her 9-year-old daughter tried desperately to call 911, but the call did not go through. Like millions of American children, Kari's brave daughter was taught to dial 911 for emergency assistance, but because they were in a hotel room, the phone required her to dial 9 followed by 911. In any emergency, a few precious seconds can mean the difference between life and death. And although we cannot prevent tragic events from taking place, we do have the ability to make it easier to get help. That is why I have teamed up with Senators Amy Klobuchar, John Cornyn, Ted Cruz, and Brian Schatz to put forward a new bill that could save countless lives. Our legislation, named in honor of Kari Hunt, would require that everyone has the ability to call 911 in an emergency. This problem isn't isolated to one hotel room or a particular incident. As of March 2014, consumers could not directly dial 911 in 44.5 percent of hotel franchises and 32 percent of independent hotels. Over the past 2 years, the hotel industry and phone manufacturers have undertaken voluntary efforts to improve the problem, and I do commend those efforts, but we need to do more. If one person cannot call 911 in a life-or-death situation, that is one person too many. The bill we have introduced, known as Kari's Law, would require multiline telephone systems, such as those used in hotels and schools and office buildings, to have a default setting that enables people to directly call 911 without first dialing an access code such as 9 or 1. The bill also requires that these phone systems be programmed to allow a central location--such as the hotel front desk--to be notified if a 911 call is made. Through our legislation, first responders can more easily locate people during an emergency. Then they face fewer barriers while this is unfolding. Kari's Law has already received generous support from across the country. For example, in Nebraska, the bill is supported by the firefighters associations in Omaha and Lincoln, the Buffalo County Sheriff's Office, the city of Beatrice Fire and Rescue Department, Cheyenne and Scotts Bluff County 911 representatives, and the chairman of the Scotts Bluff County Board of Commissioners. The bill is also supported by the hotel industry and the American Hotel and Lodging Association. I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of FCC Commissioner Pai, who has devoted time and resources to bring attention to this very important issue. Commissioner Pai traveled to Nebraska last June, and he participated in a workshop on direct-dial 911 issues while at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. He has continued to encourage the industry to work with him in an effort to find solutions to this important issue. The Nebraska Public Service Commission, which led the workshop, has also been at the forefront of the discussion. And finally, we would not be here discussing this bill without the tireless work of Kari's father, Hank Hunt. Hank has worked day in and day out to advocate for this legislation at both the State and the national level. Hank has made it his mission to ensure that no other family will have to suffer through a similar tragedy. I paraphrase Hank: It was the look on my granddaughter's face when we failed her. A 9-year-old did what she was instructed to do by her parents, teachers, and adults. She was in a true, dire emergency, and she followed instructions, but it didn't work. I would call on all my colleagues to support this important legislation. We owe it to Kari Hunt, her family, and the Americans who rely on their ability to call 911 for emergency help. Spoofing Prevention Act Madam President, I also want to take a moment to speak about another bipartisan bill that is currently before the Senate. This legislation also seeks to protect Americans by updating our telecommunications laws. It would fix loopholes in our laws that are allowing scammers to take advantage of innocent Americans through a practice known as caller ID spoofing. Caller ID spoofing allows predators to deliberately falsify their identification and telephone numbers relayed through caller ID. The scammers frequently ask for personal information and for money. Often, senior citizens and our veterans are the target of these predatory practices. Caller ID spoofing has become a major problem for Nebraskans and for law enforcement, which is why I am committed to eliminating this practice. In September 2013, USA Today highlighted the story of Marian Kerr from Hastings, NE. Ms. Kerr is an 83-year-old retired hospital nursing administrator who fell victim to a spoofing scam. She received a call from individuals who claimed to work for the Federal Government, and they asked for her bank account information. The scammers told her they were Federal officials and already had her name, address, and her phone number. They used this information to trick Marian into providing her bank account number. Ms. Kerr had caller ID, but it displayed a number in Nevada, not Washington, DC, or Hastings, NE. She attempted to call back repeatedly, but she either received a busy signal or was sent to voice mail. Ms. Kerr reported the incident to the police, but by then it was too late. Her money was gone, and there was nothing that law enforcement could do. Last fall, the Omaha FBI issued a warning about the danger posed by scammers using the Bureau's identification to target Nebraskans. The callers claimed to be offering a grant from the Federal Government, and they proceeded to solicit credit card and banking information. This practice is happening across the country and it needs to stop. Whether it is hardworking Nebraskans like Ms. Kerr or veterans who bravely served our country, no one is immune to this form of fraud. That is why I was very pleased to join with Senator Nelson last month to introduce the bipartisan Spoofing Prevention Act. This bill would amend the Truth in Caller ID Act. Currently, loopholes in this law are allowing scammers to manipulate caller ID information and to harass millions of Americans. While the Truth in Caller ID Act has helped to curb spoofing, the growth in new technologies has allowed scammers, especially those operating overseas, to continue this fraudulent practice. The Spoofing Prevention Act would crack down on spoofing by prohibiting caller ID spoofing on all voice calls, including those originating outside the United States, and all calls made using IP-enabled voice services. It would also prohibit caller ID spoofing done via text messaging, which is now becoming a really common practice. Additionally, the bill directs the GAO to look at what the FCC and the FTC have done to combat spoofing. We must call for new solutions as technology continues to evolve, and I urge all my colleagues to support this important legislation so we can ensure that our citizens are protected from fraud and abuse. Thank you. I yield the floor.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, I rise to congratulate Nebraska's beef producers for continuing to reach new areas of the world with our very high-quality American beef. Earlier this month it was announced that WR Reserve, a beef-processing plant in Hastings, NE, will have the honor of delivering the first U.S. shipments to Israel in nearly 13 years. In December 2003, Israel was one of many countries to suspend imports of U.S. beef, following a confirmed case of BSE in the United States. Because of this, America's beef producers have been unable to ship their products to this close friend and ally. However, during my visit to Israel last fall, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Dan Shapiro asked me to begin a dialogue with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and find a way to bring Nebraska beef to Israel. The Ambassador was especially interested in serving that Nebraska beef at the Embassy's annual 4th of July celebration. Over the last few months, I have worked with the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service and with officials at the Nebraska Department of Agriculture in a concerted effort to find a solution. I am extremely pleased to inform this body that an agreement was achieved, the ban was lifted, and Nebraska will supply the first shipments of beef to Israel in over a decade. Ambassador Shapiro was quick to praise this breakthrough, noting: This agreement gives Israeli consumers access to the world's highest-quality beef. At the same time, it creates and supports jobs in the great state of Nebraska. I couldn't agree with the Ambassador more. Israel is a critical ally of the United States, and I was pleased to work with the USDA and the Israeli Government to supply the first American beef shipments to Israel in over a decade. Nebraska's beef producers are the best in the world, and this agreement is a testament to their tireless commitment to delivering safe and high-quality beef to millions of dinner tables around the world. In Nebraska, cattle outnumber people more than 3 to 1. With nearly $7.2 billion in annual cash receipts, our beef production is the largest sector of the State's economy, and Nebraska leads the Nation in every aspect of beef production. I would also like to note that this agreement shows that science-based trade can overcome myth and misinformation. By ending this ban, Israel becomes one of the last countries to reopen its market to U.S. beef and abide by international trade regulations. In doing so, this agreement reinforces the progress made by the U.S. beef industry to eliminate BSE-related trade restrictions. I also join the Nebraska Agriculture Department director, Greg Ibach, in congratulating WR Reserve. Their hard work made this agreement possible after complying with a rigorous inspection process that included regular visits from the Israeli Government. Prior to this agreement, according to the USDA, Israel imported beef products from other nations worth $405 million in 2014. Ninety-five percent of these imports originated in Latin America with smaller volumes coming from Australia and the European Union. Now the United States will have the opportunity to showcase our world-famous beef to a new global market, and Nebraska is very proud to lead that charge. I was honored to work collaboratively with State, Federal, and international officials to ensure that Nebraska's beef producers achieved those necessary approvals. I am proud to represent the people of Nebraska. Through this agreement, new markets are now open to Nebraska's producers, businesses, and to the communities that rely on them for economic progress. I will continue to work to ensure Nebraska's beef producers have the opportunity to do what they do best--feed the world. Madam President, I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016, at 10 a.m., in room 428A of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing entitled, ``An Examination of Changes to the U.S. Patent System and Impacts on America's Small Businesses.''

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016, at 9:30 a.m.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Immigration and the National Interest be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016, at 2:30 p.m., in room SD-226 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building, to conduct a hearing entitled ``The Impact of High-Skilled Immigration on U.S. Workers?''

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016, at 2 p.m., in room SD-430 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing entitled ``Nomination of Dr. John King to serve as Secretary of Education.''

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing entitled ``Connecting Patients to New and Potential Life Saving Treatments.''

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Select Committee on Intelligence be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on February 25, 2016 at 2 p.m.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I wish to take a moment to speak today on a bipartisan pipeline safety bill that will soon be considered by the full Senate. Last December, the Senate Commerce Committee unanimously passed legislation to strengthen pipeline safety across our Nation. I have been working with my colleagues, Senator Booker, the Presiding Officer Senator Daines, and Senator Peters, on this bill for nearly 9 months, and we are proud of this bipartisan legislation. Over the past several months, we have held several hearings, including one in the Presiding Officer's home State, in Billings, MO, last September. Not far from Billings, in January of 2015, the Poplar Pipeline spilled nearly 30,000 gallons of crude oil into the State's precious Yellowstone River. This incident reinforced the need for a robust update to our laws regarding both the pipeline system and the government agency charged with keeping it safe. Pipeline infrastructure transports vital energy resources to homes, businesses, schools, and commercial centers across the United States. According to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, or PHMSA, more than 2.5 million miles of pipelines traverse this country. Our bill, the SAFE PIPES Act, would increase congressional oversight over pipeline safety programs at PHMSA. It would also provide greater flexibility and resources to State pipeline safety officials. Further, the bill would require PHMSA to reprioritize congressional directives and conduct an assessment of the pipeline integrity management program. Pipeline safety affects citizens in each and every one of our States. In my home State of Nebraska, we experienced this just a couple months ago. In January, a ruptured natural gas pipeline exploded in the Old Market area of downtown Omaha. The disaster destroyed a historic building, and it did injure several people. The SAFE PIPES Act would encourage the use of advanced technology for pipeline mapping and help avoid accidents like this moving forward. In California, the massive Aliso Canyon underground natural gas storage facility leak posed a serious public health threat and displaced hundreds of families from their homes. The SAFE PIPES Act would direct PHMSA to create crucial minimum standards for underground natural gas storage facilities. It would also establish an Aliso Canyon working group to ensure that similar incidents are avoided in the future. I appreciate the strong support provided by the California Senators, Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein, who helped draft the working group provisions there. They also serve as cosponsors of our SAFE PIPES Act. The Senate must pass this robust, bipartisan legislation. We all have a responsibility to prioritize not only the efficient permitting and construction of energy infrastructure but also the safety and the security of our Nation's extensive pipeline network. Mr. President, I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Madam President, I rise today to continue my tribute to this current generation of Nebraska heroes by remembering those who died defending our freedom in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each of our fallen Nebraskans has a special story to tell. Over the next year and beyond, I will continue to devote time here on the Senate floor to remember each of them in a special tribute to their life and to their service to our country. Time after time, Nebraska's Gold Star families tell me the same thing. They hope and pray that the supreme sacrifices of their loved ones will always be remembered. Sergeant Jeffrey Hansen Today I want to celebrate the life of SGT Jeffrey Hansen of Cairo, NE. Jeff grew up with the heart of a soldier. He enjoyed an all-American childhood, spending time outdoors, hunting, playing football, and staying in shape. Born in Minden, NE, and a 1993 graduate of Bertrand High School, Jeff attended college at the University of Nebraska at Kearney before graduating in 1997 with a bachelor's degree in athletic training. Over the years, the urge to serve his country tugged at Jeff. He decided to enlist with the Nebraska Army National Guard in January of 2000. A natural leader, he quickly rose through the ranks, serving as an assistant squad leader, fire team leader, and squad leader before his last assignment as a fire support sergeant. Jeff exhibited outstanding leadership as a member of Troop A in the 1-167th Cavalry of the Nebraska Army National Guard. Friends remember Jeff as an awesome teacher and an amazing mentor. SGT Brad Jessen recalls how Jeff was very soft spoken, but he always had something intelligent to say. In civilian life, Jeff became a Kearney police officer in 2002, and he later joined the Department of Veterans Affairs Police force in Grand Island. James Arends, who worked with him as a sergeant in the VA Police Service, said, ``Jeff was the strong, silent type. He didn't talk a lot, but when he did, people listened.'' Jeff was also a loving husband. He met his wife Jenny at a football game at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Fate brought them together, and they began a natural and a comfortable relationship that blossomed quickly. Jenny excelled at golf in college. Jeff would attend her tournaments, cheering her on as the team progressed to a winning season. Then, after the final round of the 2002 NCAA Division II Women's Golf Tournament, Jeff came up to Jenny on the 18th green where he knelt down and proposed. That same year, Jeff was promoted to sergeant and recognized for outstanding gunnery marksmanship. Jeff and Jenny also began discussing their future plans. Their talks became more intense when Jeff's unit, the 1-167th Cavalry, was called to duty in Bosnia. Jeff and Jenny wasted no time, and they were married on October 12, 2002. Two days later, Jeff left for Bosnia. After 11 months, Jeff returned home and the two settled down back in Cairo, NE. A world away, the war in Iraq continued. By the fall of 2005, the American public was hopeful that major military operations in the region would be coming to an end. However, the bombing of the al-Askari mosque in February of 2006 ignited a Sunni-Shia civil war that plunged Iraq deeper into violence. At that time, the American military was operating as a peacekeeping force, but things quickly turned deadly, and the coalition found themselves engaged in dramatic wartime operations. Jeff's unit arrived in Iraq just before the al-Askari mosque bombing. Operating out of Balad Air Base, his unit, ``the Cav,'' was known for their ability to complete security operations in one of the most violent areas of the country. The days were long, and with each mission they faced imminent danger. All the while, Jeff kept his head in the game and inspired his battle buddies to do the same. While Jeff was gone, Jenny remained active, and she continued to excel on the golf course. She won the Nebraska Women's State Amateur Golf Championship and qualified for the 2006 U.S. Women's Amateur Open. As she continued to advance, Jenny began thinking about playing the sport professionally, so she wrote to Jeff, asking for his guidance and thoughts on this important new stage--one they would share and navigate on their journey together. Back in Iraq, Jeff headed out on patrol where conditions worsened with limited visibility. Out of nowhere, Jeff's humvee hit a sinkhole and it flipped, landing upside down in a canal. As this was unfolding, Jeff pushed the other soldiers out of the vehicle, all of whom survived the crash. Meanwhile, Jeff was still in the humvee and critically injured. SGT Brad Jessen remained at the scene, keeping Jeff alive until the medical team arrived. Jeff was quickly flown to Germany for emergency care. Jenny was at work when the phone rang. ``There's been an accident,'' she was told. ``We need you to come to Germany.'' It seemed like an eternity before Jenny was able to reach Jeff's side at the hospital in Germany. As soon as she arrived, it was clear Jeff was not going to make it home. He passed away a few days later, with Jenny at his side. Jenny returned home to Nebraska, saying goodbye to Jeff one last time and bracing for a life without the man she loved. Shortly after the funeral, a letter arrived. It was from Jeff, and there was a reply to her questions about golf and their future. He had written to tell his wife to pursue her dream. He told her to find the focus and dedication that she yearned for in her life. If there was something she wanted to pursue, he would support her every step of the way. So Jenny pursued that dream. She competed for and she earned a spot on the Ladies Professional Golf Association tour, and she played in a number of professional tournaments. But as any Nebraskan can understand, ``the good life'' pulled her back. Today, she is the mother of three beautiful children. She still reads the letters from Jeff every once in a while, and Jeff is with her every day in her heart. For his service in Iraq, Jeff was awarded the Iraqi Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal. He was also posthumously awarded the Bronze Star, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and the Overseas Service Ribbon. Jeff is survived by his widow Jenny, his father Robert, and his brother Jeremy. Our Nation and all Nebraskans are forever indebted to his service and sacrifice. SGT Jeffrey Hansen is a hero, and I am honored to tell his story, lest we forget his life and the freedom he fought to defend. Thank you, Madam President. I yield the floor.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I rise to pay tribute to the great men and women of Nebraska who have served and are serving in the U.S. military. Our State has a rich and powerful history of answering the call to serve. For nearly 150 years, we have witnessed this bravery in each of America's wars. Over the past decade, the men and women of Nebraska have risen to defend our precious freedom against Islamic terrorists, primarily in Iraq and Afghanistan. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the horrific terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, DC. These events changed the lives of Nebraskans and our Nation forever. Nebraskans stepped up, ready to fight. Those serving in uniform, be it Active Duty, the National Guard or the Reserves, knew they would likely wind up on the battlefield at some point in the future. Many other Nebraskans enlisted after high school. ROTC units in Nebraska had no problem filling their ranks, and applications for military academy nominations poured in at record numbers. We should all be so thankful to this generation for answering the call and standing up to defend freedom across the globe. Today, I begin a new initiative to honor this generation of Nebraska's heroes on the Senate floor, and I will focus on those who lost their lives in combat. All of our fallen Nebraskans have a special story. According to the Nebraska Department of Veterans Affairs, there are 77 Nebraskans who lost their lives to combat-related incidents in Iraq and Afghanistan. Throughout this year and beyond, I intend to devote time on the Senate floor to remember each of these heroes. Telling their stories keeps their service and their sacrifice alive in our hearts, while reminding us of the principles they fought and died for. Time after time, Nebraska's Gold Star families tell me the same thing. They hope and pray that the supreme sacrifices of their loved ones will always be remembered. It is my hope that these presentations will allow us to pause and reflect on these brave Nebraskans. The freedoms they secured are personified by the courage they embody. Specialist Joshua A. Ford Mr. President, today I wish to begin with SPC Josh Ford from Pender, NE. Joshua A. Ford was killed in Iraq on July 31, 2006. His parents, relatives, and high school classmates look back lovingly on the boy who quickly grew to be a courageous soldier. As a young teenager, Josh was described as a couch potato who liked video games, painting, and watching horror movies, but deep inside there grew a strong desire to serve his country in military uniform. He joined the Nebraska Army National Guard between his junior and senior year at Pender High School in 2003. That same year he began basic training at Fort Jackson. He was just 17 years old, and it was a tough transition. His dad Lonnie remembers Josh talking about being placed in ``fat man's camp'' at Fort Jackson. Josh was overweight by 35 pounds at the time. Lonnie and his wife Linda, along with classmates and friends, noticed how dramatically Josh had changed when he returned from basic training. A year later, after graduating from Pender High School, Josh attended the Army's heavy vehicle driver school at Fort Leonard Wood. He was assigned to the 189th Transportation Company, Detachment No. 1, in Wayne, NE. A senior sergeant remembers that Josh ``grew up from a kid to a soldier almost overnight.'' The 189th had just been recognized as a unit in April of 2003. Two years later, the 189th received orders to deploy to Iraq. Following training at Fort Riley, the unit arrived at Tallil, Iraq, in October of 2005. For the next year they traveled over 2.5 million miles throughout the country. Specialist Ford became known as an energetic and reliable battle buddy. He was eager to tackle extra missions. Josh came home on leave in April of 2006. He had a number of things on his mind. At the top of his list was his girlfriend Michelle, whom he proposed to that spring, and she happily accepted. He also kept things in order, leaving behind an audio will for his friends. According to Josh's father Lonnie, ``he just wanted everyone to celebrate his life after he was gone.'' Josh returned to Iraq with just 6 months to go in the deployment. In the early evening of July 31, 2006, the heat was unbearable but typical for a summer day in Iraq. Specialist Ford and his battle buddy, SPC Ben Marksmeier, were part of a 189th convoy that was driving through an area they had patrolled many times. Out of nowhere, an IED blast obliterated their vehicle. Unit members reached their truck immediately. Specialist Marksmeier was seriously injured, but Specialist Ford died at the scene. Lonnie, Josh's dad, will never forget the day he heard the knock at the door. Three members of the Nebraska Army National Guard had arrived at his home in Pender, and he knew before he opened the door why they had come. The next day, Lonnie and his wife Linda traveled over 250 miles to tell Josh's grandmother and his three sisters of his death. One can only imagine the pain, sorrow, and agony they felt every step of the way. SPC Josh Ford was buried in Pender, NE, on August 10, 2006. Pictures show the road from the church to the cemetery lined with people as the Patriot Guard veteran motorcycle group escorted Josh to his final resting place. For his service to his country, SPC Josh Ford earned the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Action Badge. He was promoted posthumously to the rank of sergeant. His father Lonnie later retired from teaching, and he joined the Patriot Guard. Today, Lonnie ensures those who served and died are never forgotten. He attends funerals and events with his fellow Patriot Guard riders all across Nebraska. Josh's photo and his service information are proudly displayed on his rider's vest. He recalls Josh saying to him, when he was home on leave in April before his death: Old man, I now understand why you were so tough on me while I was growing up. You only wanted me to become the best person I could possibly be. During his limited time on Earth, Josh did just that. Our Nation and all Nebraskans are forever indebted to his service and sacrifice. SGT Josh Ford was a hero, and I am honored to tell his story lest we forget his life and the freedom he fought to defend. Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. FISCHER

Mrs. FISCHER. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Veterans' Affairs be authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on January 21, 2016, at 10 a.m., in room SR-418 of the Russell Senate Office Building to conduct a hearing entitled ``VA's Transformation Strategy: Examining the Plan to Modernize VA.''