Greg Gianforte

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I appreciate Dr. Bucshon's leadership on this bill. I am excited to see this pass the House. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Great American Outdoors Act. My friend, Senator Daines, deserves a lot of credit. He has successfully advanced this historic legislation, historic because of its long-term dedication to our public lands. People from around the world come to tour our outstanding National Parks, including millions of visitors every year to Yellowstone and Glacier. Unfortunately, too many of our parks have fallen into disrepair. This bill begins to rebuild and repair our parks. It is also a fitting complement to our successful efforts to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund. It provides dedicated funding to increase public access to public lands across Montana. I know how important LWCF is to Montana, and I will continue working to keep public lands in public hands and increase access. I urge my colleagues to join me today in voting for the Great American Outdoors Act.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Eric Miller of Jordan for his 20-plus years of service to Garfield County as an extension agent and a mentor to the community's young people. For more than two decades, Eric has served as a Montana State University extension agent in Garfield County. He's a proud Bobcat who earned his master's degree in animal science with an emphasis in genetics at MSU. His connection with MSU and his love of agriculture brought him to Jordan as the county's extension agent. Eric loves his job. He enjoys helping people, and he'll tell you no one day is like another. He wears many hats. Some days, he teaches adult education classes. Others, he solves problems. Still others, he advises the county and local farmers. Eric helps farmers increase production and profitability throughout the county, but he acknowledges these are challenging times for our agricultural community. Eric also focuses his efforts and energies on supporting the area's youth. For more than 20 years, Eric has been the Garfield County 4-H director. While agriculture is a big focus of 4-H, the group's main priority is to empower young people with skills and through experiences. Focused on their interests, the young people undertake hands-on projects, whether it's raising and breeding livestock, farming, wood working, welding, cooking, shooting sports, or another activity. Through continuing education and mentorship, 4-H provides them the opportunity to grow and develop. Eric's favorite part is watching kids learn. He says there's nothing like seeing a kid's light go on when working on a project. He says it's a powerful moment when a participant comes to fully understand his or her project, and you get a lot of those moments a kid is involved in 4- H for years. For Garfield County, 4-H is more than a club. It's part of their community. It's a way for kids to interact and build relationships beyond school. One of the biggest events in the area is the Garfield County Fair where 4-H members showcase their projects for everyone to see. It's the culmination of all their hard work and dedication. Madam Speaker, for his decades of helping people in his community, from farmers to young people, I recognize Eric Miller of Jordan for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, Montana should be able to sell its coal overseas. Washington State is preventing construction of coal export terminals, effectively shutting down exports of Montana coal and unconstitutionally interfering with interstate commerce. My amendment will continue the Federal permitting process if Washington State remains on its unconstitutional path. Building a coal port that supports good-paying union jobs in Washington and good-paying jobs across Montana should be a bipartisan winner. I urge adoption of this amendment.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, the Sidney and Kinsey Irrigation Districts serve more than 130 family farms that irrigate nearly 12,000 acres of farmland in eastern Montana. A recent decision by the Bureau of Reclamation has upended 70 years of how Sidney and Kinsey irrigators have received project use power to pump water. The change will increase power costs from 2.5 percent of their annual budget to nearly 40 percent. Losing this power would put these family farmers and companies out of business. My amendment will fix this issue by restoring the original arrangement that has been in place for 70 years. I urge support for it. Montana Should be Able to Sell its Coal Overseas

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, Montana has some of the best, brightest, most innovative educators in our country, and our students are better for it. I rise today to honor one of the best, Linda Rost of Baker who's recognized for her dedication to students and for her outstanding accomplishments in education. Linda loves rural living and that's why Baker is her perfect fit. She enjoys the culture and the pride people have living in a small community. She says, when there's crummy winter weather, everyone goes through it together, and the community grows stronger and closer. Her extended family lives in nearby Willard. Linda feels a deep connection to the area. When a teacher is linked to her community that much, she can more easily relate to the kids and make a lasting difference in their lives. While attending New Mexico State University, Linda started studying to be a scientist, but soon found the lab lonely and boring. She noticed she enjoyed tutoring and began taking education classes. That's when she realized where her passions lie and what she truly wanted to do. Fast forward to today, she earned two master's degrees in education from Montana State University, and is working on a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics at Texas Tech University. Linda teaches biology, AP biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, and science research at Baker High School, the same high school her father went to. She says it's really exciting to see her students pick a research project they're passionate about, lead it to completion, and find themselves along the way. Many of Linda's students have competed in national and international science competitions. Two recent graduates of Baker High School conducted innovative, cutting-edge research. One student studied breast cancer signs and tested novel drugs used on brain cancer. He conducted weekly Skype sessions with scientists and got good results. Another student wanted to make a biodegradable wrap for hay bales. She produced a bioplastic for the bales out of algae--stronger than the usual wrap--and after two weeks, it degraded slowly while maintaining its strength. Linda calls herself a ``guide,'' but she is so much more. Linda serves as an inspiration for her students. Linda is the 2020 Montana Teacher of the Year, and she was one of four finalists for 2020 National Teacher of the Year, which is run by the Council of Chief State School Officers. Teaching is Linda's passion, and Montana is better for it, Madam Speaker, for her commitment to education, her exceptional, engaging science instruction, and her lasting impact on students.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective Troy Charbonneau of Billings for always being prepared and willing to answer the call of duty whether he is in uniform or off duty. It was the first weekend of June, and Troy wanted to take advantage of the nice weather. He packed his kayak and headed to Lake Elmo with his new puppy which was also eager to get outside. With his kayak in the water and his pup enjoying the view, Troy was able to relax. After a while, Troy noticed a small dot on the lake's horizon. He looked closer and realized it was a person about 250 yards from the bank. At the shore, people were yelling. The swimmer was struggling, his head disappearing underwater. Realizing the severity of the situation, Troy immediately steered his kayak toward the boy. Troy was able to get the boy alongside his kayak and secure him with a life jacket. Using a rope, he towed the boy safely to shore as sounds of ambulance and police sirens echoed across the lake. A detective with the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office, Troy says being a police officer is a 24/7 job. If you're off duty, he says, you still have a responsibility to do what you can to keep everyone safe. An investigator of crimes against children and a forensic interviewer, Troy is dedicated to the Billings community, and that drive keeps him ready at a moment's notice. Troy saved a boy from drowning, because he's always observant of everything around him. He's committed his life to public service and law enforcement. On behalf of a grateful Montana and nation, I thank Troy and all our law enforcement officials who serve our communities selflessly, honorably, and with full hearts. Madam Speaker, for his swift, heroic actions to save a boy's life and for being a great example of service for all Montanans, I recognize Detective Troy Charbonneau of Billings for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cindy O'Boyle of Kalispell for encouraging, empowering, and uplifting women throughout Montana through the Montana Woman Foundation (MWF). Sixteen years ago, Cindy founded MWF and serves as its executive director. The 50I(c)(3) nonprofit organization's mission is to help all Montana women reach their full potential through mentorship, workshops, and scholarships the group provides. Cindy says she knows how important it is for women to support women. The group's board believes women are stronger together and that programs that help women overcome challenges will ultimately benefit them and their communities. Each year, MWF generally awards scholarships to women ``who are generally non-traditional students or women who are underserved, underprivileged or have dealt with a variety of struggles including but not limited to homelessness or poverty, health issues, learning disabilities, domestic-violence, foster care, single- or teen motherhood.'' Any Montana woman, regardless of age or social, economic, or cultural differences, may apply for the scholarship or participate in educational workshops or mentorship program. The goal is always the same: empower women to overcome obstacles, improve themselves, and better their community. One specific example of success, which is near and dear to Cindy's heart, is a woman MWF helped during its first five years. The woman in her early 60s was married, and her husband worked and provided for them. Unfortunately, he had a stroke that forced him to end his career. The couple were not situated for retirement, and she faced the challenge of finding a good-paying job. To earn what the couple needed, she needed to go back to school. MWF paid for her to get the education she needed, she became an office assistant, and she began providing for the family. Cindy says it's scary to be put in that situation, but the woman's grit and determination brought her success. This week, the foundation, which received over 250 applications for its 2020 scholarships, will announce the recipients. While MWF usually awards four annual scholarships, it will provide seven scholarships this year to Montana women across our state. Madam Speaker, for nurturing and encouraging Montana women, helping change their lives, and supporting them in their success, I recognize Cindy O'Boyle of Kalispell for her Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Todd Spangler of Whitefish for providing his community with personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 outbreak. In March, Todd read about how a group in Billings created a 3D printer design for the ``Montana Mask.'' The developers released the design and free open-source software to the public so others could produce the mask. Around that time, Todd's wife, who works with a local ophthalmologist, told him the practice had about a week's supply of masks. Todd, a chemistry teacher at Whitefish High School, contacted people he knew with 3D printers. In no time, an informal group of educators, physicians, and dentists started making the needed masks. Using a 3D printer from Todd's classroom as well as others from Flathead Valley Community College, they got to work. In no time, the group produced 600 masks. Todd delivered the masks throughout the Flathead Valley, including to independent health care practices, providers at Kalispell Regional Healthcare, and first responders throughout the region. Todd says the effort helped him find purpose during the crisis. He admits being under quarantine was challenging for him and many Montanans but identifying a need and taking the initiative to help fulfill that need have guided him. When your families and friends need masks, Todd says, you must find a way to protect your loved ones and coworkers. For Todd, this crisis, while devastating for a lot of people, has brought out the best in so many. Madam Speaker, for taking the initiative and leading a project to protect Montanans in a time of crisis, I recognize Todd Spangler of Whitefish for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Melinda Stentoft of Scobey for providing Eastern Montana's health care providers with personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 outbreak. Let me start of by saying Melinda wants everybody to know she doesn't think she deserves this recognition. She said, ``I just honestly felt like it needed to be done.'' That speaks volumes to the type of person Melinda is. She owns a boutique in Scobey, Montana. Once the COVID-19 outbreak forced everyone indoors and businesses, like hers, to close their doors, business really started picking up on line. In fact, her numbers doubled in the past two months. But through all this success, she saw the harsh reality of the coronavirus and its impact on her community, state, and nation. When health care providers indicated they had an immediate need for PPE, Melinda realized there was a way she could help. Melinda's boutique sells cloth masks to the public. She says everyone was ordering them, so she pledged to help with Eastern Montana's health care PPE shortage. For every five masks her business sold, she would donate two to health care systems like Daniels Memorial in Scobey, Roosevelt Memorial in Culbertson, and the Billings Clinic. Thanks to her efforts, hundreds of masks will be delivered to protect providers. This unprecedented time has reminded Melinda of her childhood when, she says, people were so close, and the sense of a tight-knit community came back because of the outbreak. Instead of rushing all the time, Melinda feels people are taking more time to talk to each other, and she loves how people have found their own way to help. Madam Speaker, for identifying the needs of her community and selflessly giving back, I recognize Melinda Stentoft of Scobey for her Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Gerri Backes of Kalispell for supporting and caring for seniors in her community as we face this unprecedented time. Gerri is the president of the Kalispell Senior Center. Since taking over last summer, she has made increasing social events a priority, with a goal of creating programs that seniors will look forward to. Gerri says this new approach has paid dividends and now their group is closer than ever. Last year, she set up a ``90-plus'' party for 17 members of the senior center, and dozens showed up to celebrate their long, fulfilling lives. She says parties like these promote community and build critical relationships that ultimately improve the life of her members. She also oversees the center's ``Warm It Up'' program. Through this major project, seniors knit hats, scarfs, and quilts to donate to organizations and schools throughout Kalispell. In 2019 alone, they donated 3,000 items. Under her leadership, the center also offers exercise classes along with educational presentations on health care and fraud. They play Pinochle on Tuesdays and Fridays and have a very popular weekly Bingo night. But all of that has come to a screeching halt. Officials closed the center in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. As a result, seniors are confined to their homes, isolated and with little to no social interaction. Luckily for this Kalispell group, they have Gerri. For Gerri, one of the best things in life is laughter. She says it keeps the soul happy and hopeful. While the center's doors are closed, Gerri has been making phone calls to check up on her friends, and she refuses to hang up until she gets a laugh. And that's not all she does. During these long days at home, it's easy to get lonely and restless, so Gerri delivers puzzles and books to her friends. She says this group of Kalispell Valley seniors is her family, and she'll continue to help them whether the center is open or closed. Madam Speaker, for delivering laughs and hope to Montana seniors, I recognize Gerri Backes of Kalispell for her spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lohgan Dennehy of Butte for her work providing handcrafted personal protective masks to health care, school district, and community workers as Montana combats the COVID-19 outbreak. At 10 years old, Lohgan knows what she wants to be when she grows up--a fashion designer. To encourage her dream, Lohgan's parents bought her a sewing kit, and her mother taught her how to sew. She's become a natural. Her parents say she has a heart of gold, that she's one of the most kindhearted human beings you've ever met. She enjoys making a difference. It was no surprise when Lohgan wanted to help when she heard there was a shortage of masks in Butte. Lohgan watched YouTube videos on the proper way to make a mask with her sewing machine and materials. She admits it was difficult at first, but eventually she mastered the process and can make one in just 20 minutes. Lohgan sends her special masks to doctors and nurses at both St. James Healthcare in Butte and the Community Hospital of Anaconda, Butte's public transportation drivers, school district employees delivering meals to kids, soldiers at the local military enlistment offices, and anyone who has a pre-existing condition. Montanans throughout our state embraced Lohgan in her efforts, donating money and supplies to keep her going. So far, she's made 120 masks and has another 50 requests to make more. It's a lot of work for Lohgan, who's completing her fourth grade assignments from home, but she's committed to doing her part to keep people safe and healthy. Madam Speaker, for using her talents to help her fellow Montanans amid a public health crisis, I recognize Lohgan Dennehy for her spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of reopening the Paycheck Protection Program after an unnecessary lapse in funding. In just 2 weeks after the launch, the program provided over 13,000 loans in Montana, totaling $1.4 billion. It has helped small businesses stay open and keep workers on the payroll. But as the well quickly ran dry on this critical lifeline for small businesses and workers, the Speaker and the Senate Democratic Leader, Chuck Schumer, stood on the sidelines and failed to work with Republicans to keep this program running. When Senate Majority Leader McConnell moved to increase funding, Democrats objected, refusing to allow immediate action. That is outrageous. At last, we are doing the right thing by small businesses and workers, but it is overdue, and it has been needlessly held up with partisan games. I urge my colleagues to stand with small businesses and workers today and pass the Paycheck Protection Program.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, last night, we learned a Montanan died to COVID-19, the first in our State. Our hearts are heavy back home. Mr. Speaker, Montanans are concerned. They are concerned about the health of their families and communities. They are concerned about the fallout from this outbreak. They are concerned they may have to shutter their businesses and lay off their workers. They are concerned they may not have a job tomorrow or see their next paycheck. We are addressing many of these concerns today in the CARES Act. It helps families and workers so they can pay their bills and put food on the table, provides loans and grants to small businesses so they can keep their doors open. It boosts funding to support those on the front lines, from hospitals to healthcare providers to CDC and the VA clinics. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to vote for the CARES Act and provide emergency relief to the American people facing this crisis.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dan Ohl of Malta for going above and beyond to answer the call of duty and personally fly blood platelets to his local hospital in a time of need. Dan loves to fly. He says there's nothing like seeing Montana's stunning landscape from a different perspective. As a Montana Highway Patrolman, Dan spends a lot of time on the ground, lending a hand to fellow Montanans. It wasn't until this past December that his love of flying and helping others came together. In December 2019, Phillips County Hospital contacted Montana Highway Patrol for assistance delivering blood from Great Falls to their clinic in Malta. The troopers came up with a plan to use a series of relays to transport the blood to Malta but ran into a problem when there wasn't enough staff to execute it. That's when Dan stepped up. Dan jumped into action and using his own Beach Craft Bonanza 6- seater, started the over 200-mile flight to Great Falls to meet the Red Cross at the local airport. He says it was the most precious cargo, aside from his family, he has had on his plane. When he touched down in Malta, he met with hospital staff who transferred the blood to the hospital. His quick delivery of blood saved a life. For Dan, this is why he went into serving in the Montana Highway Patrol: he wanted to help Montanans. Whether he's on or off duty, as a patrolman, he's called to step up in times of need and that's exactly what he did. Madam Speaker, for selflessly helping his fellow Montanans, from the air and on the ground, I recognize Dan Ohl for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jason Samsal of Sunburst for his innovation as a conservationist on his Montana family farm. Jason's land, just north of Shelby, has been in his family for generations. When Jason was 11 years old, his grandpa began teaching him the ways of the farmer and rancher. Jason has worked alongside his father for more than three decades. For him, it's the independence and lifestyle that he loves so much. Jason has been an example for many Montana farmers and ranchers. Participating in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation programs, he goes above and beyond to ensure high-quality care for his crops and land. Jason is committed to using a diverse and intense cropping rotation that enhances the soil and protects it from erosion. His methods are working. Jason is known for his produce, including one-year turnips that have reached the size of dinner plates. As a result of his work, he was recognized as the Toole County Conservationist of the Year in 2019. Along with crop rotation, Jason makes constructing habitat a top priority on his farm. After noticing bees were struggling to pollinate his large farm in 2010, he found a solution. For every quarter mile, Jason created habitat with plants and flowers that pollinate year- round, giving the bees an area to rest. Because of measures like these, his bees and crops are thriving. Jason is also committed to responsible wildlife practices. His farm is open for hunters as part of the state's block management program. He's constructed three wildlife corridors for animals to roam freely. He's also rebuilt all his fences with gates so antelope and deer can travel safely throughout his property. Madam Speaker, for his innovative approach to sustainable farming and his commitment to conserving Montana's land and creating healthy, practical wildlife habitat, I recognize Jason Samsal for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dax Wilson of Billings for his work in engaging his community on the importance of donating blood. Dax's motivation is his mother, Cassidy. After giving birth to Dax, she developed a rare blood disorder which left her in desperate need for blood transfusions. During her treatment, the hospital realized they didn't have enough blood on hand. The shortage led doctors to call hospitals in Kansas City and Denver for help. During his mother's time in the hospital, she received 700 pints of plasma and blood. The donations saved her life, and now Dax is looking to save more. Now a junior at Billings Senior High School, Dax donates blood regularly, but he's always wanted to do more. As a member of the Platinum Program, a high school honors organization, Dax found an opportunity to do just that. A requirement of the program is to complete a community service project. Using this platform, Dax launched ``Drops for Life,'' a program that partners with the local blood donation center to prepare blood drives throughout the community. Starting this March, all three high schools in the area will participate in blood drives organized by Dax's program. Dax says not enough people are aware of how much hospitals and clinics need blood and plasma. He says if people knew one hour spent donating can save up to three lives, more people would give. His efforts have created a wonderful opportunity to support a cause that will help Montanans throughout the state. Madam Speaker, for his devotion to promoting blood drives, increasing awareness, and saving lives, I recognize Dax Wilson for his Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Bob Drake of Helena, Jordan Alexander of East Helena, and Rick Abraham of Montana City for their many decades of service to their volunteer fire departments. Bob grew up knowing he wanted to be a firefighter. His father was one of the founding members of the former Lakeside Fire Department that was created in 1973. In 1995, Bob followed in his father's footsteps and became a volunteer firefighter. Six years later, Bob became the department's volunteer fire chief. Bob will retire this month after 25 years on the job. Jordan began his firefighting career at just 17, working at the station in Bozeman. After two years, he graduated high school and went on to college. After Jordan made his way to Helena in 1989, he started volunteering at the Baxendale Volunteer Fire Department. In 2012, he became fire chief. This month, Jordan retired after 30 years of total service. Rick started firefighting in 1989 for the Montana City Volunteer Fire Department. In 2001, he became fire chief. Rick says it never ceases to amaze him how volunteers leave birthday parties or Christmas dinners in a moment's notice to help people in their time of need. In June, Rick will retire after 31 years at the department. These men say their favorite part of the job is the impact the department has on the community. They help people on their worst days. They help their neighbors, friends, and families who face catastrophe. Everyone in the community breathes a little easier as they see each of these men and their departments coming down the road to help in their time of crisis. Bob, Jordan and Rick also spoke about the power of the volunteer and how they join the department with their day jobs and hobbies. The banker comes, the nurse comes, the electrician comes, and the teacher comes. The volunteers form a diverse, powerful group that serves their community to its fullest. Madam Speaker, for their incredible leadership at the helm of the Tri-Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, Baxendale Volunteer Fire Department, and the Montana City Volunteer Fire Department, I recognize Bob Drake, Jordan Alexander, and Rick Abraham for their Spirit of Montana.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Texas, particularly for reminding us of the need to rebalance and reclaim our Article I authority from the runaway bureaucracy that we have here in Washington. Madam Speaker, we started the Government Efficiency Accountability and Reform Task Force for one simple reason: only 17 percent of Americans today say they can trust the government in Washington. We have to get the government working for the people again. Madam Speaker, I was in Billings, Montana, and a gentleman who has been drilling natural gas wells for 30 years told me a story. He said 30 years ago when he wanted a permit to drill a well, he would go into the field with a clipboard, a single piece of paper, and a ballpoint pen. He would fill out that application. The government official would review it in the field and say: That will be all right. Today, Madam Speaker, that same form is 48 pages long, requires an engineer and a lawyer to fill it out, tens of thousands of dollars, and months to process. Clearly, we can do better. Our three branches of government have drifted from their original purpose to cultivating a culture of waste. That is why we have produced this playbook of 100 commonsense, nonpartisan solutions for efficiency, accountability, and reform of our Federal Government. Over this last year, the Republican Study Committee GEAR Task Force has been meeting with outside experts and the administration and internally to produce a playbook of commonsense solutions for efficiency, accountability, and reform of our Federal Government. I want to thank the task force members, the chairman of the RSC, Mike Johnson; Barry Loudermilk; Doug Collins; Bruce Westerman; Rick Allen; John Curtis; Michael Cloud; Kelly Armstrong; William Timmons; and Denver Riggleman for their engagement and their leadership in pulling together this playbook through which we hope to run these commonsense ideas. The report is broken into three sections. The first section refers to the comments made by my colleague who just finished on the Article I power in the Constitution to restore the people's control over an unchecked bureaucracy by returning the constitutional balance between the branches of government. Our Founding Fathers never anticipated the size of the bureaucracy we have today. That is why we need provisions like the REINS Act, so that the statutes passed in this House get reflected in rules consistent with our intent. The second section of the report has to do with government practices to streamline Federal programs and operations to promote efficiency and eliminate waste. Madam Speaker, in 2015 the Social Security Administration told us we had sent benefit checks to over 6 million Americans who were over the age of 112. Now, either they are drinking some special elixir of life or they are not with us anymore. That is why I have introduced a piece of legislation titled stop paying dead people. I think that would be a good reform. It would save American taxpayers and make sure the benefits are there for those who do need Social Security. The third section of the report is on personnel, to transition government personnel accountability and compensation toward more of a merit-based system. I operated a number of businesses in the private sector, and there are many HR practices in the Federal Government which are very different than they are in the private sector, things like merit-based pay, the way we do performance reviews, and making sure we have market-based pay for our good, dedicated Federal workers. Those are contained in the third section. In total, there are over 100 commonsense ideas in this report that we will run as plays here in the House to make the government start working for the people again. I appreciate the opportunity for the Members of the task force and others who have engaged on this issue to come today and share their commonsense ideas. I look forward to partnering to put these ideas into practice to get government working for the people again. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for his remarks. I agree we have seen the impacts of an overly lengthy NEPA process that just ties projects in knots, and the weaponization of the Endangered Species Act has allowed it to drift away from its original intent of protecting species. So I appreciate the gentleman's leadership on this. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from the 21st District of Texas (Mr. Roy) for his thoughts on government efficiency and reform and also his leadership on national emergency reform.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from South Carolina for his leadership on the GEAR Task Force. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from California (Mr. LaMalfa), from the First Congressional District, for his thoughts on government efficiency and reform.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Georgia. I particularly appreciate his business experience here in the House and his participation on this task force. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Timmons), from the Fourth Congressional District. He has also been a task force member, and his fingerprints are on this report.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman, especially for bringing attention to this issue of immigration. It is top of mind for so many Americans, and having the judges necessary to pursue these cases to final outcome is so important. I yield to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Allen), from the 12th Congressional District, a task force member who helped bring forward many of the ideas that are in this collection of commonsense government efficiency ideas just published recently.

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his leadership here in highlighting some of these wasteful programs. Clearly, we can do better, and I thank him for bringing them forward. At this time, I will yield to the gentlewoman from Arizona's Eighth Congressional District, Representative Debbie Lesko. She has brought to us some of the reforms related to improving our immigration system, and I look forward to her sharing that with us. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Arizona (Mrs. Lesko).