Tom Harkin

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Pocahontas County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Pocahontas County worth over $225,000 and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $5.4 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be their tremendous use of farm bill funds that I authorized for a variety of local projects, including construction of a daycare, fire department improvements, sewer improvements, courthouse improvements, and conservation. Among the highlights: School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Pocahontas County has received $225,000 in Harkin grants. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Pocahontas County has received more than $3.4 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Pocahontas County's fire departments have received over $390,245 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Pocahontas County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Pocahontas County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Pocahontas County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State, and it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Osceola County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to successfully acquire financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $4.5 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be out work together to promote wellness in the community through obesity prevention, construction of playground equipment, and ensuring access to preventative care. Ensuring Iowans have access to quality, affordable health care is critical, particularly for those in rural areas, who may find this care out of reach. Thanks to the insightful leadership of Janet Dykstra, the Osceola Community Hospital is equipped with the equipment and facilities to care for residents and promote wellness in the area. Among the highlights: School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Osceola County has received $66,873 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Osceola County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $50,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Osceola County has received more than $3.3 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Osceola County's fire departments have received over $543,297 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that Osceola County has recognized this important issue by securing $116,399 to curb obesity and $35,833 to implement a wellness center through the Harkin wellness grant program. The Osceola Community Hospital also received $50,000 to purchase age appropriate playground equipment through farm bill programs. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Osceola County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Osceola County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Osceola County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State, and it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills--but I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Cherokee County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to successfully acquire financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $5.2 million to the local economy. Of course, my favorite memory of working together has to be ensuring that the Cherokee County Regional Airport has the resources it needs to stay modern. Dependable air service is a significant factor for growing businesses as well as increasing tourism in the area. I look forward to learning about the impact of these improvements, which are important for the airport and the local economy. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects, including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Cherokee County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Cherokee County, I have fought for funding for small community airports, which brought more than $1.4 million to the county in the past decade, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Cherokee County has received $163,458 in Harkin grants. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Cherokee County has received more than $1.1 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained, equipped, and able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Cherokee County's fire departments have received over $875,290 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Cherokee County, both those with and without disabilities, and they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Cherokee County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Cherokee County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. Of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Emmet County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Emmet County worth over $4.5 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $15.5 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be the community's commitment work to secure Harkin wellness grants. From increasing physical activity to promoting workplace wellness and educating students about the dangers of tobacco, this funding has provided the key to reducing health care costs and helping Iowans live a longer, happier life. Through the five programs included in the Lifestyle Challenge, participants lost a collective 3,467 pounds and clocked 23,911 hours of activity. Emmet County has been at the forefront of this effort, so I look forward to learning how they have implemented healthier living in their community. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Emmet County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Emmet County, I have fought for over $1.3 million for the Iowa Great Lakes Community College for work on renewable energy programs, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That's why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Emmet County has received $3.3 million in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Emmet County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $175,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Emmet County has received more than $1.4 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Emmet County's fire departments have received over $660,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that Emmet County has recognized this important issue by securing $120,000 in wellness grants. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Emmet County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Emmet County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Dickinson County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Dickinson County worth over $3.4 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $11.4 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be our shared commitment to school construction, renovation, and fire safety through the Harkin school grants and Star Schools programs. Working together with state and local communities, this funding has ensured Iowa students are learning in schools that are safe, and modern. I look forward to learning about the renovations made possible in Dickinson County. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Dickinson County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Dickinson County, I have fought for more than $9.2 million for Polaris through the Department of Defense to provide All Terrain Ultra Tactical Vehicles to the National Guard, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That's why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Dickinson County has received $1,124,075 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Dickinson County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $223,047. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Dickinson County has received more than $3.1 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Dickinson County's fire departments have received over $500,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That's why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Dickinson County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Dickinson County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Dickinson County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I wish to announce that the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions will meet in executive session on Wednesday, May 14, 2014, at 10 a.m., in room SD-430 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building to mark-up S. __, The Strong Start for America's Children Act; the nomination of R. Jane Chu, of Missouri, to serve as Chairperson of the National Endowment for the Arts; as well as any additional nominations cleared for action. For further information regarding this meeting, please contact the Committee at (202) 224-5375.

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I wish to announce that the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions will to meet on May 15, 2014, at 10 a.m., in room SD-430 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building, to conduct a hearing entitled ``Progress and Challenges: The State of Tobacco Use and Regulation in the U.S.'' For further information regarding this meeting, please contact Emily Schlichting of the committee staff on (202) 224-6840.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful Farm Bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Hardin County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Hardin County worth over $2.3 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $10 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be our shared commitment to school construction, renovation, and fire safety through the Harkin grant program. Working together with state and local communities, this funding has ensured Iowa students are learning in schools that are safe, and modern. I look forward to learning about the renovations made possible in Hardin County. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northern Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Hardin County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Hardin County, I have fought for funding for the Iowa National Guard Readiness Center in Iowa Falls worth $2 million, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That's why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Hardin County has received $396,191 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Hardin County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $73,350. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Hardin County has received more than $6.6 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Hardin County's fire departments have received over $1.3 million for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Hardin County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Hardin County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Hardin County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. It has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across 4 decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Monona County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Monona County worth over $1.7 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $4.8 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be our shared commitment to school construction, renovation, and fire safety through the Harkin grant program. Working together with State and local communities, this funding has ensured Iowa students are learning in schools that are safe, and modern. I look forward to learning about the renovations made possible in Monona County. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development: In Western Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Monona County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, I have consistently fought for job training dollars which have meant more than $800,000 in Monona County, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin Grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Monona County has received $985,638 in Harkin Grants. Similarly, schools in Monona County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $57,500. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Monona County's fire departments have received over $498,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Monona County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Monona County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Monona County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful Farm Bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Hamilton County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Hamilton County worth over $548,000 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $7.6 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memories of working together have to include Webster City's commitment to rebuilding crumbling schools with Harkin school construction grants, and Jewell's tremendous success in downtown restoration through Main Street Iowa grants. Among the highlights: Main Street Iowa: One of the greatest challenges we face--in Iowa and all across America--is preserving the character and vitality of our small towns and rural communities. This isn't just about economics. It is also about maintaining our identity as Iowans. Main Street Iowa helps preserve Iowa's heart and soul by providing funds to revitalize downtown business districts. This program has allowed towns like Jewell to use that money to leverage other investments to jumpstart change and renewal. I am so pleased that Hamilton County has earned $240,000 through this program. These grants build much more than buildings. They build up the spirit and morale of people in our small towns and local communities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That's why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Hamilton County has received $308,341 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Hamilton County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $65,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Hamilton County has received more than $5.9 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Hamilton County's fire departments have received over $324,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Hamilton County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Hamilton County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Hamilton County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Sac County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to successfully acquire financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $5.6 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be Sac County's excellent work to secure funding for firefighting equipment through Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, fire grants. I look forward to seeing how Fremont County has implemented this important funding in their community. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Sac County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Sac County, I have fought for funding for small airport funding at the Federal Aviation Administration, which allowed community leaders to successfully acquire over $1.5 million in airport improvements, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Sac County has received $158,167 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Sac County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $99,430. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Sac County has received more than $3.1 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Sac County's fire departments have received over $585,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Sac County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Sac County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Sac County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Clay County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Clay County worth over $20 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $997,000 to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be their work through Main Street Iowa to renovate the Spencer Community Theater. In 1982, this building was transformed from the vacant Spencer Grocer Building into the Spencer City Theatre, a center for arts, culture, and community gathering. This funding has allowed for the space to again be transformed. With these renovations, the Spencer City Theatre is now a facility that can better serve the Clay County community. Among the highlights: Main Street Iowa: One of the greatest challenges we face--in Iowa and all across America--is preserving the character and vitality of our small towns and rural communities. This isn't just about economics; It is also about maintaining our identity as Iowans. Main Street Iowa helps preserve Iowa's heart and soul by providing funds to revitalize downtown business districts. This program has allowed towns like Spencer to use that money to leverage other investments to jump-start change and renewal. I am so pleased that Clay County has earned $50,000 through this program. These grants build much more than buildings. They build up the spirit and morale of people in our small towns and local communities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Clay County has received $797,135 in Harkin Grants. Similarly, schools in Clay County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $110,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Clay County has received more than $14 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Clay County's fire departments have received over $705,345 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Clay County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Clay County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Clay County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I wish to announce that the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions will to meet on May 8, 2014, at 10 a.m. in room SD-106 of the Dirksen Senate Office Building, to conduct a hearing entitled ``Hearing on the nomination of the Secretary of Health and Human Services-Designate, Sylvia Mathews Burwell.'' For further information regarding this meeting, please contact Emily Schlichting of the committee staff on (202) 224-6840.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Buena Vista County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Buena Vista County worth over $4.9 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $23.6 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be working with Buena Vista University to secure more than $5.5 million since 1995 for renovations and investments to the campus, including course development needs, modernizing technology and equipment, and support for distance learning programs. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects, including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Buena Vista County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Buena Vista County, I have fought for funding for more than $2.5 million to dredge Storm Lake, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Buena Vista County has received $424,090 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Buena Vista County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $175,000. Disaster mitigation and prevention: In 1993, when historic floods ripped through Iowa, it became clear to me that the national emergency- response infrastructure was woefully inadequate to meet the needs of Iowans in flood-ravaged communities. I went to work dramatically expanding the Federal Emergency Management Agency's hazard mitigation program, which helps communities reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters and enables mitigation measures to be implemented during the immediate recovery period. Disaster relief means more than helping people and businesses get back on their feet after a disaster, it means doing our best to prevent the same predictable flood or other catastrophe from recurring in the future. The hazard mitigation program that I helped create in 1993 provided critical support to Iowa communities impacted by the devastating floods of 2008. Buena Vista County has received over $12 million to remediate and prevent widespread destruction from natural disasters. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Buena Vista County has received more than $5.9 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Buena Vista County's fire departments have received over $596,000 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that Buena Vista County has recognized this important issue by securing more than $2 million for the United Community Health Center. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Buena Vista County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Buena Vista County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State, and it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Sioux County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Sioux County worth over $1.2 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $21.6 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be working on the community health center. The Promise Center in Sioux County has opened doors and created opportunities for accessible care for so many Iowans in this region. I am encouraged by the progress in Northwest Iowa, and I look forward to learning how this center has transformed the community. Among the highlights: Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Northwest Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects, including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Sioux County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Sioux County, I have fought for funding for Northwestern College for nursing training and arts projects worth $490,000, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Sioux County has received $720,933 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Sioux County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $20,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Sioux County has received more than $11 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that Sioux County has recognized this important issue by securing more than $800,000 for the Community Health Center. Disability Rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Sioux County, both those with and without disabilities, and they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Sioux County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Sioux County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State, and it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Plymouth County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Plymouth County worth over $11 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $1 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memories of working together have to include working with community leaders on the renovation of the American Legion building in LeMars. The funding allowed for a new glass block window and improvements to the existing front door to meet code on the first floor and the replacement of windows, repainting, and new signage on the second floor. Among the highlights: Main Street Iowa: One of the greatest challenges we face--in Iowa and all across America--is preserving the character and vitality of our small towns and rural communities. This isn't just about economics; It is also about maintaining our identity as Iowans. Main Street Iowa helps preserve Iowa's heart and soul by providing funds to revitalize downtown business districts. This program has allowed towns like LeMars to use that money to leverage other investments to jump-start change and renewal. I am so pleased that Plymouth County has earned $30,000 through this program. These grants build much more than buildings; they build up the spirit and morale of people in our small towns and local communities. Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Western Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Plymouth County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. For example, working with mayors, city council members, and local economic development officials in Plymouth County, I have fought for funding for Head Start, school construction, and dialysis center projects worth more than $1 million, helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants--for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Plymouth County has received $462,349 in Harkin Grants. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Plymouth County has received more than $3.4 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Plymouth County's fire departments have received over $325,229 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Disability rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Plymouth County, both those with and without disabilities, and they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Plymouth County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Plymouth County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. It has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Lyon County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Lyon County worth over $1.2 million and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $6.2 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be our shared commitment to school construction and modernization. Iowa students cannot learn in buildings that are falling apart. Working together with State and local communities, this funding has ensured Iowa students are learning in schools that are safe and modern. It was an investment in Iowa communities and its kids, and I look forward to learning about the renovations made possible in Lyon County. Among the highlights: School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin Grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Lyon County has received $1,197,251 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Lyon County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $34,181. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Lyon County has received more than $299,000 from a variety of farm bill programs. Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as, for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Lyon County's fire departments have received over $397,392 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that Lyon County has recognized this important issue by securing $63,750 for wellness grants. Disability rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television, but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Lyon County, both those with and without disabilities. They make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Lyon County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Lyon County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. Of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Reserving the right to object. What was the request?

Mr. HARKIN. That is fine.

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, how much time remains?

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, in a few moments we are going to vote here in the Senate on whether we are going to bring the minimum-wage bill to the floor for debate and a vote. In a few minutes, it will be clear where each Senator stands. Who in this Chamber is going to stand with millions of Americans who work full time for a living but who are left in poverty or on the brink of poverty, struggling to make ends meet? Who is going to vote to give these good people a fair shot at the American dream, and who is going to vote against them? We are going to find out in a few minutes. There is no question that working families need a raise. Fourteen million children in America--that is one in every five--are in a family that would get a raise under our minimum-wage bill. Businesses need a raise. Over 600 economists--7 Nobel Prize-winning economists--have said the lack of demand is what is hurting businesses in America, because people don't have enough money to go into their stores on Main Street and buy what they need. Businesses need customers. If we raise the minimum wage, the people who are getting the raise aren't going to go to Paris, France, and spend that money. They will spend it on Main Street. That is what our businesses need. Our economy needs a raise, because when businesses do better, they hire more workers, they add jobs, and it generates more economic growth. People in poverty definitely need a raise. This bill, our minimum- wage bill, will lift an estimated 7 million people out of poverty. All working families need a raise. Some of my friends on the Republican side say not all of this goes to people who are in poverty. That is absolutely true, because 12 million people who have family incomes between $20,000 and $60,000 a year will also get a raise. What is wrong with that? These hard-working families need to be able to put some money aside for a rainy day, provide for their kids' education, maybe buy a new car, buy a new home, upgrade. What is wrong with that? So, yes, this helps a lot of American families get a fair shot at the American dream. I might add, taxpayers need a raise in the minimum wage. Right now, we are spending about one-third of $1 trillion--$243 billion a year--on social programs to help families who are struggling to make ends meet, who are low income or who are in poverty. It has been estimated that the minimum-wage bill will save $4.6 billion a year in money we won't have to pay for food stamps--$46 billion over 10 years taxpayers will save when we increase the minimum wage, because people will have the money. They will be able to go out and buy their own food and they won't need food stamps. Again, any way we look at it, we need to raise the minimum wage. I wish to pick up where Senator Schumer left off. This is about real people. This is not abstract. This is Alicia McCrary of Northwood, IA, a wonderful woman who came to testify before our committee. She has four boys. She moved to Northwood from another State. She was in a very abusive relationship. She wanted to get her kids to a safe place, so she moved there with her four boys. She testified. She works at a fast-food restaurant. She makes $7.65 an hour. She has four boys, as I said. She is an amazing woman, working very hard. She rides a bus 20 miles each day, every day, to get to work. She wants to work full time, but the bus, which costs her $10 a day, by the way, only runs until 3 p.m., so she has to leave by then. Her wages are so low that every day she has to tell her children they can't have things their friends have. They can't play a certain sport. They can't all get a haircut at the same time. They can't even buy shoes at the same time, because she can't afford it. Alicia does not want to be on public assistance, but she has to be. She is participating in a program run by the North Iowa Community Action Agency to help her achieve self-sufficiency and get off the system because she wants to support herself through her own work. Here are her own words: If the minimum wage is increased, it would be very helpful to my family. . . . I would see more reductions in TANF-- That is her public assistance and food assistance-- and would see another increase in my rent, but that would be OK. I will have more money overall and it would come from my own hard work and my family will be better off. I want to work and stand on my own two feet. . . . I work very hard doing my job and I believe I am worth $10.10 an hour. . . . If you can move forward with increasing the minimum wage, my family will be more successful in reaching our goal of a better life. This is the real people who will be helped by increasing the minimum wage. I have listened to a lot of the debate on the floor and I have heard the objections from my friends on the Republican side. I have heard a lot of talk about the Keystone Pipeline and the high-paying jobs it would create. I don't doubt that it probably would. But unless Alicia is ready to pick up and move her four kids to Texas and become a petroleum engineer, it is not going to help her one bit. I haven't heard one offer from the other side that will be a single solution that would help Alicia's life be better. So the Keystone Pipeline isn't going to help Alicia, a fast-food worker who works hard every day. It is not going to put food on her table or help her boys get a haircut or get a pair of shoes or buy a computer so they can do their homework. A minimum-wage increase will do that. A minimum-wage increase will give Alicia a raise. The American people are desperately calling for us to pass this bill. The time has come. In fact, it is past time to do the right thing, the morally correct thing, to raise the minimum wage. The time has come to give realistic hope--realistic hope, not false hope--to people such as Alicia McCrary and so many people in our country who work hard every day--millions of working Americans--to give them a realistic hope that our economic system is not going to continue to leave them further and further behind. It is time to say yes to giving a fair shot to the American dream, to being a part of the middle class, to Alicia McCrary and millions of hard-working but low-paid Americans. The time has come to raise the minimum wage. Madam President, I yield back any remaining time. Cloture Motion

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State, and it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Fremont County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities and a healthier, safer community Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Fremont County worth over $155,000 and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $4.4 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be Fremont County's excellent work to secure funding for firefighting equipment through Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, fire grants. I look forward to seeing how Fremont County has implemented this important funding in their community. Among the highlights: Keeping Iowa communities safe: I also firmly believe that our first responders need to be appropriately trained and equipped, able to respond to both local emergencies and to statewide challenges such as-- for instance, the methamphetamine epidemic. Since 2001, Fremont County's fire departments have received over $896,975 for firefighter safety and operations equipment. Investing in Iowa's economic development through targeted community projects: In Southeast Iowa, we have worked together to grow the economy by making targeted investments in important economic development projects including improved roads and bridges, modernized sewer and water systems, and better housing options for residents of Fremont County. In many cases, I have secured Federal funding that has leveraged local investments and served as a catalyst for a whole ripple effect of positive, creative changes. I have fought for funding for affordable housing programs through the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which local economic development officials have successfully won over many years, securing over $475,000 and helping to create jobs and expand economic opportunities in Fremont County. School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin Grants for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Fremont County has received $150,000 in Harkin grants. Similarly, schools in Fremont County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $47,400. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Fremont County has received more than $2.6 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Disability rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed- captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Fremont County, both those with and without disabilities, and they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Fremont County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Fremont County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives, and, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa, and I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, the strength of my State of Iowa lies in its vibrant local communities, where citizens come together to foster economic development, make smart investments to expand opportunity, and take the initiative to improve the health and well- being of residents. Over the decades, I have witnessed the growth and revitalization of so many communities across my State. And it has been deeply gratifying to see how my work in Congress has supported these local efforts. I have always believed in accountability for public officials, and this, my final year in the Senate, is an appropriate time to give an accounting of my work across four decades representing Iowa in Congress. I take pride in accomplishments that have been national in scope--for instance, passing the Americans with Disabilities Act and spearheading successful farm bills. But I take a very special pride in projects that have made a big difference in local communities across my State. Today, I would like to give an accounting of my work with leaders and residents of Shelby County to build a legacy of a stronger local economy, better schools and educational opportunities, and a healthier, safer community. Between 2001 and 2013, the creative leadership in your community has worked with me to secure funding in Shelby County worth over $544,000 and successfully acquired financial assistance from programs I have fought hard to support, which have provided more than $8.4 million to the local economy. Of course my favorite memory of working together has to be early in my career when I helped Elk Horn to cut through the bureaucratic red tape holding its historical Danish windmill at customs in New York due to import levies. I also worked with community leaders to see that they received a refund of that levy. Soon after, I spent one of my work days helping the people of the community to rebuild it as a bicentennial project. The windmill stood on Danish soil for 127 years before it was purchased by the Elk Horn community. I am pleased that my state staff director, Rob Barron, will be revisiting this site exactly 38 years after my workday on May 1, 1976. Among the highlights: School grants: Every child in Iowa deserves to be educated in a classroom that is safe, accessible, and modern. That is why, for the past decade and a half, I have secured funding for the innovative Iowa Demonstration Construction Grant Program--better known among educators in Iowa as Harkin Grants--for public schools construction and renovation. Across 15 years, Harkin grants worth more than $132 million have helped school districts to fund a range of renovation and repair efforts--everything from updating fire safety systems to building new schools. In many cases, these Federal dollars have served as the needed incentive to leverage local public and private dollars, so it often has a tremendous multiplier effect within a school district. Over the years, Shelby County has received $391,730 in Harkin Grants. Similarly, schools in Shelby County have received funds that I designated for Iowa Star Schools for technology totaling $20,000. Agricultural and rural development: Because I grew up in a small town in rural Iowa, I have always been a loyal friend and fierce advocate for family farmers and rural communities. I have been a member of the House or Senate Agriculture Committee for 40 years--including more than 10 years as chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee. Across the decades, I have championed farm policies for Iowans that include effective farm income protection and commodity programs; strong, progressive conservation assistance for agricultural producers; renewable energy opportunities; and robust economic development in our rural communities. Since 1991, through various programs authorized through the farm bill, Shelby County has received more than $2.1 million from a variety of farm bill programs. Wellness and health care: Improving the health and wellness of all Americans has been something I have been passionate about for decades. That is why I fought to dramatically increase funding for disease prevention, innovative medical research, and a whole range of initiatives to improve the health of individuals and families not only at the doctor's office but also in our communities, schools, and workplaces. I am so proud that Americans have better access to clinical preventive services, nutritious food, smoke-free environments, safe places to engage in physical activity, and information to make healthy decisions for themselves and their families. These efforts not only save lives, they will also save money for generations to come thanks to the prevention of costly chronic diseases, which account for a whopping 75 percent of annual health care costs. I am pleased that with the help of community leaders like Sheri Bowen with the public health department, Shelby County has recognized this important issue by securing $162,500 for wellness grants and through direct appropriations for mental health services for distressed farmers. Disability rights: Growing up, I loved and admired my brother Frank, who was deaf. But I was deeply disturbed by the discrimination and obstacles he faced every day. That is why I have always been a passionate advocate for full equality for people with disabilities. As the primary author of the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA, and the ADA Amendments Act, I have had four guiding goals for our fellow citizens with disabilities: equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency. Nearly a quarter century since passage of the ADA, I see remarkable changes in communities everywhere I go in Iowa--not just in curb cuts or closed captioned television but in the full participation of people with disabilities in our society and economy, folks who at long last have the opportunity to contribute their talents and to be fully included. These changes have increased economic opportunities for all citizens of Shelby County, both those with and without disabilities. And they make us proud to be a part of a community and country that respects the worth and civil rights of all of our citizens. This is at least a partial accounting of my work on behalf of Iowa, and specifically Shelby County, during my time in Congress. In every case, this work has been about partnerships, cooperation, and empowering folks at the State and local level, including in Shelby County, to fulfill their own dreams and initiatives. And, of course, this work is never complete. Even after I retire from the Senate, I have no intention of retiring from the fight for a better, fairer, richer Iowa. And I will always be profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Iowa as their Senator.

Mr. HARKIN

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, we are now debating legislation that will be up for a vote tomorrow. It will be a cloture vote on bringing a minimum wage increase bill to the floor. Let's be clear about this. It is a cloture vote. This means it is going to take 60 votes, and that will happen tomorrow. I assume most of the day we will be discussing that. I hope so. I know others have come to the floor previously to discuss this. As the chairman of the committee and as the chief sponsor of this bill, I intend to be back on the floor later today to respond to some of the allegations made by Senators on the other side of the aisle regarding this bill and minimum wage as a concept, but I wish to take a few minutes to sort of set the stage for this legislation and what it is going to mean for our economy and for working Americans. What I would say at the outset is that the minimum wage bill is about a lot of things: It is going to give an economic boost. It will increase the GDP of our country. It will do a lot of good economically for our society, but basically it is about economic fairness. It is about what kind of society we want America to be. Keep in mind, the Fair Labor Standards Act which set the minimum wage was passed at the end of the Depression, 1939, when we were still in the Depression, and it was immediately to give a raise in wages to hard-working Americans. That is what it did. Since that time, actually on both sides of the aisle, we have raised the minimum wage a number of times. This is just another step in making sure that those at the bottom of the economic ladder in America also get a hand up, to get help to make sure they too have a fair shot at the American dream. So that is what this minimum wage bill is truly about. It is about core American values; the value that no one who works full time all year long should live in poverty. That is what this is about. The fact is the value of the minimum wage has eroded so much over the last few years that the minimum wage right now is way below poverty. In other words, someone can work full time every day, all year long, and they are still in poverty. But they are working every day. That is not fair. The American value system is one that if someone puts in their work and works hard, they ought not to be living in poverty. Right now, tens of millions of Americans are struggling just to keep a roof over their heads, to pay the heating bill, to find some money for an extra pair of shoes for a growing child, even getting money together to take the bus to work. Think about this: A minimum wage worker's paycheck has stayed the same since 2009. This chart illustrates what has happened. If we go back to 2009, the minimum wage has increased zero percent. But look what has gone up: Electricity has gone up 4.2 percent; rent, 7.3 percent; auto repairs, 7.6 percent; food at home, 8.8 percent. This is since 2009. Childcare has gone up 11.7 percent. Mass transit, which is how people who make minimum wage get back and forth to work, has gone up 17.8 percent since 2009. Yet their paycheck has not gone up. What does this chart tell us? This tells us that people making minimum wage are falling further and further behind because these are things that low-income Americans have to spend money on: lights, rent, fixing up their old car, food, childcare, and mass transit. Look how much they have gone up. Yet the minimum wage has stayed the same. That is why this is a value issue. When people who work hard and play by the rules have to rely upon food stamps and food banks to feed their children and the minimum wage has them trapped in poverty, it is unacceptable. It is un-American. It is not what our Nation is about. So Americans deserve a raise. That is why this bill raises it from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour in three annual steps. It will link the minimum wage to the cost of living in the future. In other words, we index it for the future so we don't have this prospect that as other things increase in price, the minimum wage stays the same. It is time to index it in the future. Our bill also provides for a raise for tipped workers--the people who serve your food, push the wheelchairs at the airports, and park cars. Every time I tell somebody this, they tell me I can't be right; I must be mistaken. I tell them the tipped wage today is $2.13 an hour, and it has been that way since 1991. Not a 1-cent increase since 1991. People find that hard to believe. It is hard to believe, but it is very true. So our bill would increase tipped wages from $2.13 an hour up to 70 percent of the minimum wage over a 6-year period of time, the first increase in tipped wages in 23 years. An increase in the minimum wage benefits everyone. Twenty-eight million workers will get a raise--15 million are women, so over 50 percent of the increase--4 million African-American workers; 7 million Hispanic workers; and 7 million parents will get a raise. And we forget about this. How about our kids? Fourteen million kids will benefit from a minimum wage increase. That means their families will get an increase in the minimum wage. This benefits the kids. So think about the children in America. They are going to get a raise too. Again, raising the minimum wage helps our families and it helps our economy. This is why we had a press conference this morning with a group called Business for a Fair Minimum Wage. One thousand businesses across the country representing every State in our Nation have signed on saying: Yes, we need to increase the minimum wage to at least $10.10 an hour. They understand and Main Street businesses understand this. If we increase the minimum wage for people in the community, they are not running off to Paris, France, to spend the money. They are going to spend that money on Main Street, and that helps our small businesses. This is why so many small businesses get it. They understand that if we raise the minimum wage, that helps them. That helps the local economy on Main Street. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that our minimum wage bill will put $35 billion in the hands of millions of workers, and that money will be spent on Main Street. It will pump an additional $22 billion into our GDP, supporting 85,000 new jobs as the raise is phased in over 3 years. There is another issue I think we need to address, and that is what happens with low-wage workers and how they do sustain themselves. They are in poverty from the minimum wage. So what do they rely on? They rely on food stamps, Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program. They rely upon the earned-income tax credit and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program. That costs taxpayers in America $243 billion a year. Again, I am not saying that by increasing the minimum wage we are going to knock that down to zero. I can't say that, but what I can say is that a study was done just on food stamps, and if we raise the minimum wage, in the first year we will save $4.6 billion in taxpayers' money because people will now have enough money to go out and buy their own food. They will not rely on food stamps. A lot of these other things will be cut back too, such as TANF and Medicaid or CHIP. I can't say how much, but people understand that this is what we are paying as taxpayers to support a minimum wage below the poverty line. Again, people understand how important this minimum wage is. That is why it is so broadly supported by such a cross-section of American people. Here is a poll that has been done. A USA Today and Pew Research Center poll this year indicated that 73 percent of all voters support raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour--90 percent Democrats, 71 percent Independents, and even 53 percent of Republicans believe we ought to raise it to at least $10.10 an hour. So the American people get it. There is overwhelming support for raising the minimum wage. But I am just mystified by how vehemently my Republican colleagues oppose this modest increase. I just don't understand it. But what I hear is the same old outdated, disproved arguments against giving working Americans a raise. There are some on the other side who believe we should do away with the minimum wage. There should be no minimum wage at all. Try that one on for size. Talk about a race to the bottom. Four dollars an hour maybe? Three dollars an hour? Two dollars an hour? You see, I have always said that without a strong minimum wage and without a good, strong Wage and Hour Division at the Department of Labor to make sure people adhere to it--if we don't have that, then there is always someone a little worse off than you who will bid lower than you for that job. So someone says: We will pay $7 an hour. There is always somebody that just needs the job a little more, they are desperate, and they say: I will take it for $6 an hour. Then there are some a little worse off than that who say: We will take it for $5 an hour, and we get a downward spiral. That is why I say our American value is to have a strong minimum wage, whereby people who work hard--and some of these jobs are hard work. People are on their feet 8 hours a day or they are doing some manual labor or they are doing the kind of jobs a lot of people don't do. Yet they live in poverty. It is not right. Raising the minimum wage is common sense that adheres to our American values and gives everyone a fair shot at the American dream. I hope my colleagues will do the right thing and vote for cloture, allow us to get on the bill. We can have some amendments offered, and we can vote to give working Americans a raise after all these years. I yield the floor.

Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, tomorrow about noon we will be voting on something in the Senate that I daresay a lot of Americans will be paying close attention to. The reason they are going to be paying close attention is because that vote will affect them and their families in the future in a very big way. That vote will be on whether we will actually bring debate to a close and vote on increasing the minimum wage in America. If we were to bring that to a vote, we could pass it, the President would sign something like that into law, and in 6 months the minimum wage would go up by 95 cents an hour; then next year it would go up by another 95 cents; and the year after another 95 cents from where it is now at $7.25 an hour. What we are going to vote on tomorrow will have a drastic effect on millions of American families--and it is going to have a big effect on our economy, because it will boost our economy and get the wheels going again, because people will have more money to spend. They will spend it on Main Street. And that is what is lacking right now--consumer demand--consumers with enough money to spend on Main Street. All the economists will basically tell you it is the lack of aggregate demand that is keeping our economy from moving ahead. Tomorrow at noon we will have a vote on that. Tens of millions of American families are struggling, trying to make ends meet to give their kids a little bit better life. And, quite frankly, a lot of them on low wages are on public assistance which is costing American taxpayers nearly $250 billion every year--in food stamps, earned income tax credits, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, and Medicaid. Add all those up and it is about $243 billion a year. Taxpayers are subsidizing a lot of these companies that are paying very low wages. Many of the companies that pay such low wages are large, multibillion dollar companies raking in big profits and showering their CEOs with wealth. The average CEO pay of a Standard & Poors 500 company was 21 percent more last year than in 2009. In other words, from 2009 until the end of last year, CEO pay at these 500 companies went up an average of 21 percent. However, since 2009, the minimum wage has not increased 1 penny. The CEO pay averages now about $11.7 million a year, while a minimum-wage worker today makes $15,000 a year. That is working full time, all year, no time off. It was pointed out to me that a CEO earns that $15,000 by about 11:30 a.m. on the first day of work of the year. Imagine that. By 11:30 a.m. on January 2--assuming they don't work on January 1--they make $15,000. The minimum-wage earner has to work the rest of the year to make that $15,000. And many of these companies are paying the minimum wage. It is the families who are getting hurt. This is wrong. This is not what America is about. We want people who get up and go to work every day to be able to rely on that work to support themselves. Working families want that, too. They want a paycheck which supports them, gives them a fair shot at being a member of the middle class, and a fair shot of achieving the American dream. So now we can do something about it. We know that raising the minimum wage will help tens of millions of workers. When we raise it to $10.10, as our bill does, the bottom fifth of the workforce--nearly 30 million workers--will get a raise. By the time this fully phases in at $10.10 in 3 years, nearly 7 million people will be lifted out of poverty. If we want an antipoverty program, we have it tomorrow when we vote on raising the minimum wage. Seven million people will be lifted out of poverty, and it won't cost the American taxpayers one single dime, and taxpayers basically will save money because we won't be putting as much money out for public assistance such as food stamps. I thought it was kind of interesting that the Ryan budget the House passed cuts more than 3.8 million people off of food stamps. In raising the minimum wage, our bill would save billions of dollars--about $4.6 billion a year--not by cutting people off of food stamps, but by getting their income up so that over 3 million people don't have to rely on food stamps. So under the Ryan budget, people are kicked off of food stamps and they still get minimum wage. Under ours, you get a raise in the minimum wage and you don't have to rely on food stamps, and you save about the same amount of money. Again, I am mystified by how vehemently my Republican colleagues oppose raising the minimum wage. Certainly they must know the polling data, that the vast majority of Americans support raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour. But it seems my friends on the Republican side are sort of locked into some philosophy or ideology that says there shouldn't be a minimum wage. In fact, some of my colleagues on the Republican side actually believe there should be no minimum wage. None. Nothing. Well, we got over that 70 years or more ago, in 1938, when we first passed a minimum-wage law in America. Again, we hear from the other side that by raising the minimum wage there will be this massive loss of jobs. That is simply not true. It is a myth. But it is brought up every time. I have been in Congress now 40 years. We have raised the minimum wage several times during that period of time both under Democratic and Republican Presidents. Every time it has come up, we hear that same old song: It is going to cost jobs. Guess what. Every time we raise the minimum wage, there has been no big loss of jobs. So there are no historic facts my Republican colleagues can point to to show that raising the minimum wage costs jobs. They do refer to the Congressional Budget Office study. Actually, that is wrong. It was not a Congressional Budget Office study. They didn't do a study themselves. What they did is looked at the literature out there going back many years on potential job losses. Some of the old studies showed there would be a job loss; under a new study they said there wouldn't be. What CBO did is they averaged them all and said: Here is the average. They didn't say specifically 500,000 jobs would be lost. They said somewhere between zero and 1 million jobs will be lost, so we will pick the midpoint at 500,000. But, again, there is no historical evidence for this in terms of looking back. We can go back and look at what happened to our economy every time we raised the minimum wage, and there has not been a massive job loss. There has been shifting of jobs. People have been raised out of poverty. Working families do better. But there has been no massive job loss. So this is another myth. As I said, the historical evidence is there has not been any job loss generally--not among teenagers, not among restaurant workers. In fact, this year there has been more job growth in the 13 States that raised their State minimum wages at the start of this year than in the States that didn't raise their minimum wage. Let me repeat that. There has been more job growth in States that raised their minimum wage beginning in January of this year than in the States that didn't raise their minimum wage. A lot of businesses are now understanding this. They understand that, as economists will tell you, it is the lack of aggregate demand: not enough customers. People don't have enough money. My Republican friends want to give more money to the top, more tax cuts for the wealthy. They get more money--millions more--a year. They don't necessarily spend that on Main Street. They may go to Paris, they may buy a new jet, a new big yacht. They do things like that, but it doesn't really put money right on Main Street. What small businesses and most economists know is that when you raise the minimum wage, those people who get that raise aren't going off to Paris. They aren't buying a private jet. They are spending it on Main Street in their local stores and local businesses, and that gives a great economic boost to our whole economy. So when we focus on the best research, the latest research that has been done, it unequivocally shows that raising the minimum wage does not cause a job loss. Again, 600 economists, including 7 Nobel prize winners, have endorsed a minimum wage hike of $10.10 an hour. Six hundred economists, including 7 Nobel prize winners, signed a letter supporting $10.10. We urge you to act now and enact a three-step raise of 95 cents a year for three years--which would mean a minimum wage of $10.10 by 2016--and then index it to protect against inflation . . . these proposals will also usefully raise the tipped minimum wage to 70 percent of the regular minimum. The evidence now shows that increases in the minimum wage have had little or no negative effect on the employment of minimum-wage workers. Even during times of weakness in the labor market research suggests that a minimum-wage increase could have a small stimulative effect on the economy, as low- wage workers spend their additional earnings raising demand and job growth and providing some help on the job front. So, again, forget about the job loss. That is not going to take place. What will take place is we will lift 7 million people out of poverty and 14 million children in America will be in families who will get a raise. That will be good for our kids. We also hear from Republicans that some of the people who are going to benefit from a raise in the minimum wage aren't the poorest of the poor. It is not just people below the poverty line, but a lot of other people will make more money, so therefore it must not be a good policy. First of all, I want to dispel the myth that raising the minimum wage does not affect poverty. It does. Whether you use the CBO estimate of close to 1 million workers lifted out of poverty or the results of more sophisticated economic research showing that up to 7 million workers will be lifted out of poverty by the time the bill is fully implemented, the evidence unequivocally shows that raising the minimum wage is an effective poverty-reduction tool. But I will be the first to admit--and gladly, proudly--that this bill doesn't just help people in poverty. It also helps low-income families who are above the poverty line, and that is a good thing. That is a good thing. A lot of low-income working families will get a raise. Here is basically the breakdown: 52 percent of those who will get a raise have family incomes under $40,000; 31 percent, $60,000; and 17 percent, $40 to $60,000. So, again, it is for the people. Families making $40,000 a year will actually get a boost. How could that be? One person may be making $20,000 and the other person may be making $15,000 or $18,000. They get a boost in the minimum wage, and they benefit. Is that wrong? I don't think that is wrong at all. These are still struggling families, struggling to make sure they get enough for their kids, make sure they put a little away for a rainy day, help their kids get a good education. Evidently, our friends the Republicans are saying: Look, we should only have something that benefits those who are in extreme poverty. Then they turn around in the Ryan budget and cut food stamps. What are they saying? You know what they are really saying: Tough luck. You are on your own. If you are a minimum wage worker, tough luck, and we don't want to raise your minimum wage. Well, 69 percent of the workers who would get a raise under this bill have incomes that are under $60,000. So, yes, not everybody who is going to get a benefit from this is in poverty, but it will raise nearly 7 million people out of poverty and will also help some of our lower and middle-income families in America. I say that is a good thing, and I am proud that it does. Consider an example. Jane and Joe--those are not their real names-- are from Buchanan County in Iowa. They have two young boys. She is a waitress and earns a few dollars an hour plus tips. He works at a gas station for $7.25 an hour. They rely on food stamps and Medicaid. They have applied for assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. They work opposite shifts, so they don't have to pay for childcare--and it is difficult to find adequate care for their younger son's medical needs--but this means they hardly ever see each other. A minimum wage increase would allow them to be together more as a family. David is a pizza cook in Iowa. He is getting married soon and has a child on the way. He earns $9 an hour at his pizza job. So what did he do? He took on another job framing houses. He is working about 65 hours a week, no overtime. He has two jobs, so he is working 65 hours a week. That is still not enough. If he worked an entire year at 65 hours a week, he would only earn $30,400 a year. He is working 65 hours a week. That is technically above the poverty line, but no one would say he is making plenty of money and he couldn't use a raise. He is starting a family. When we raise the minimum wage, David will get a raise at both of his jobs. At one job he is making $9 an hour, and at the other job he is making $9 an hour. He gets a raise at both. He told the Quad City Times that a minimum wage raise would mean quite a bit to improve his life and help his growing family. So, yes, he is making 30,400 bucks a year working 65 hours a week--two jobs. You say: No, he shouldn't get this minimum wage increase. That is what I hear from my Republican colleagues. But these are the types of families who are struggling. They need a boost, and we want to give them a boost. We want to help them earn more money--not get more in food stamps or government programs but earn more money to provide for their families and build a better life and have a fair shot at the American dream. My Republican friends are not only opposing a raise, they are proposing drastic cuts to programs that low-wage workers must rely on to survive. As I said earlier, the Ryan budget cuts more than 3.8 million people off of food stamps, leaving them without any lifeline to put food on the table. By contrast, raising the minimum wage would reduce the food stamp rolls by almost the same amount--as many as 3.6 million people--because it would allow them to earn enough money to buy food for themselves. Both proposals save the taxpayer money, but under our proposal people get to eat. They get to put food on the table. I have a hard time giving a lot of credence to people who say the increase of the minimum wage doesn't really help people who are in poverty. It is untrue. The professed concern about the poorest of the poor stands in stark contrast with a Republican agenda that would increase poverty and sacrifice a program that helps low-wage working families survive. Now I want to dispel another myth--that it would hurt small business. We hear about this all the time, but every small business I have talked to says their biggest problem is not payroll costs; it is lack of demand, lack of customers. They don't have customers with money to spend. So raising the minimum wage would help their bottom line. A lot of small businesses I talk to also tell me they are frustrated, infuriated by the fact that their competitors--the Walmarts and McDonalds and other big businesses--pay rock-bottom wages that force their workers into public assistance. Well, this places responsible small businesses at a competitive disadvantage. It forces them to subsidize their competitors' low wages through their tax dollars. That is not fair. It is bad for workers, small business, and our economy. Small business owners understand this, and that is why the majority of them support this bill. Again, opinion polls--small businesses support the minimum wage 57 percent to 43 percent because they understand that a raise in the minimum wage means their customers are going to have more money to spend on Main Street. That is why today I received a letter from Business for a Fair Minimum Wage, and 1,000 businesses, large and small, across the country support raising the minimum wage to $10.10 an hour--1,000 all across America. I ask unanimous consent to have this letter printed in the Record following my remarks. So this letter and the polls show that most small businesses get it. They know that increases in the minimum wage will increase consumer demand. They also know they will have loyal, productive workers who will stay longer and save businesses from having to constantly hire and train new people. Experienced workers who have been on the job longer are more efficient and deliver great customer service that keeps customers coming back. Finally, some of my Republican colleagues have suggested that we shouldn't raise the minimum wage because they are better served by the earned-income tax credit. I support the earned-income tax credit, and, unlike many of my colleagues on the other side, I actually want to see it expanded so it better serves young and childless workers. Right now, if you are under the age of 25 and you are making the minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, you are making too much money to qualify for the earned- income tax credit. If you are over age 25 and you make the minimum wage, $7.25 an hour, and you have one child, you get $3,250 in earned- income tax credit, plus your childcare tax credit. That gets you up to 19,300 bucks a year. What a deal. But if you are childless, you get no earned-income tax credit. The veterans who were mentioned earlier--let's say a vet went into the military when he or she was age 18. They got out after 3 years, 21 or 22, and they went out and got a job, a minimum wage job. They do not get the earned-income tax credit. I am for expanding it. Let's expand the earned-income tax credit to cover childless workers under the age of 25. My Republican colleagues won't support that. They won't support that. The earned-income tax credit does provide some good support, but think about this: It only does it once a year. The only time you get the earned-income tax credit is after you file your taxes--then you get a refund. That is once a year. Families don't live like that, especially low-income families. They have a budget month after month for heating, for electricity, for fuel, for car repairs, for clothes for the kids. They cannot count on what is going to happen next year. Their income tax credit is good, but it only happens once a year. That is not very good for budgeting purposes for any family. After all, the gas company will turn your gas off in the winter even if you are going to get an earned-income tax credit next April or May. They don't take that into account. They take into account the fact that you cannot pay your bill then. So the best way to help low-income families--minimum wage-earning families plus low-income families--the best way to help them throughout the year is to increase the minimum wage. Again, all the arguments we hear from the other side of the aisle don't hold water. Today, while what I heard from the other side of the aisle is more talk about the Keystone Pipeline--as if that is going to solve all our problems--all we have to do is build the Keystone Pipeline, and that solves all of our problems. It does? The restaurant worker in Maine, the hospital orderly in South Carolina, the parking lot attendant in Mississippi--they are all going to benefit from the Keystone Pipeline? I don't think so. Somehow that is going to take the place of raising the minimum wage. So they are trying a little diversion on this Keystone Pipeline. We will provide some jobs, yes, for a couple of years, and when that is over, then what are you left with? And those kinds of jobs are not the kinds of jobs low-income workers would get, which would be pretty high- skilled, high-paying jobs for the Keystone Pipeline. So it doesn't really hold water that the Keystone Pipeline is going to be the end-all and be-all for the economy. It just won't. Raising the minimum wage is the most commonsense, practical thing we can do right now to help low-income families, give a boost to our economy, and save the taxpayers money. So I hope all my colleagues will do the right thing. So I hope all of my colleagues will do the right thing tomorrow, allow us to proceed to debate, and vote on increasing the minimum wage. Millions of American families will be watching this vote tomorrow. If they are working hard during the day, they won't be tuning in to C- SPAN, but they will read about it, and they will know what this Senate did about their paychecks and what we did about their desire to have a better life for their families, for their kids, and for their future. I will also say this. If my Republican colleagues will join with us-- at least five or six of them because we need 60 votes to get over the filibuster--if we get five or six, then we can move to the bill. I hope we will get 5 or 6 or 8 or 10 Republicans who will join us. If not, we will be back. This issue is not going away. I can guarantee we will be back. We will be back again and again and again. The American people need a raise. CEOs are getting their raises: a 21-percent increase since 2009--a 21-percent increase, an average CEO is paid; zero increase for minimum wage workers. It is now time to play a little catchup ball and provide fairness for low-income workers in America. So that is the vote tomorrow--a values vote, American values, family values, sound economic values. That is what the vote is about tomorrow. I hope and I trust that some of my colleagues on the Republican side will join with us so we can move ahead to give working Americans a raise and a fair shot at the American dream.