Dean Heller

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, last week's jobs report reinforces what many of us have known for some time. Unlike what the President would like you to believe, the private sector is not doing fine and this administration's policies are not providing effective solutions to our Nation's problems. The health of our economy hinges upon job growth, and it clearly has not received the attention it deserves. Our Nation has no roadmap, and it is past time for a genuine effort to work in a bipartisan manner to create the certainty and stability that will allow American businesses and families to thrive. Every morning Nevadans wake up and grab their hometown newspaper or turn on their local news. Some are getting ready to go to work, while others start another day trying to find a job. These Nevadans have become all too familiar with headlines of Nevada leading the country in unemployment and foreclosures. For the Nevadans who are going to their job, these headlines create fear and uncertainty about their future. For the Nevadan who is unemployed, these headlines are another blow to their hopes of finding work. That is what many Nevadans have had to live with for far too long. I read and see the latest unemployment statistics just like everyone else, but I know that behind these numbers are real people struggling to make ends meet. Being home in Nevada I have met the unemployed mechanic, the unemployed computer engineer, and the unemployed waitress. Blue collar and white collar workers alike continue to pay the price because of the poor decisions by Wall Street and Washington. Nevadans did not want the Wall Street bailout--but Washington did it anyway. Nevadans did not want the trillion dollar stimulus bill--but Washington did it anyway. Nevadans did not want the President's health care bill--but Washington did it anyway. When I am in places such as Reno, Las Vegas, Henderson, or Elko I often ask people to raise their hand if the bailout has helped them find a job. No one raises their hand. I ask did the stimulus bill help them find a job. No one raises their hand. Finally, I ask them if the health care bill has helped them find a job and still no one raises their hand. In January 2009, President Obama was inaugurated and Democrats controlled both the House and the Senate. Nevada's unemployment rate was at 9.4 percent. Nearly 4 years later Nevada's unemployment rate is 11.6 percent. Too many people in Nevada are unemployed, have stopped looking for jobs or worse, left the State for employment elsewhere. With over 23 million Americans out of work or underemployed I think it is past time to ask the President and this Congress is this working? Nevadans have seen the effects of higher Washington spending, higher regulations, and higher debt and they know these policies have failed. They deserve solutions. Instead of having more show votes, Congress needs to focus on pro-growth policies that eliminate burdensome regulations, reform the tax code and help struggling homeowners. It is my hope that our economy will improve as the year goes on, but Washington must take action. There are small commonsense measures that we can pass right now if given the opportunity. I continually come here to the Senate floor to offer solutions that will provide our Nation's job creators with the tools to provide for long-term economic growth. I have crafted three housing bills to help those foreclosed upon to stay in their home, shorten the short-sale process, and ensure homeowners who get mortgage relief are not hit with additional taxes. I have offered legislation that would require Washington bureaucrats at agencies to take into account jobs when issuing regulations or to streamline permitting for energy-related projects on public lands or even something as simple as combining annual reports submitted to Congress. These are small measures that if passed would make a big difference to our Nation's job creators. Unfortunately, all too often we find ourselves taking political show votes instead of debating commonsense solutions. The bill we have before us on the floor is a perfect example. I filed two amendments to this bill that would help ease the stress of taxes on middle-class Nevadans and one to help underwater homeowners. Both are bipartisan proposals. Yet once again we find ourselves in a position where we cannot have an open debate on amendments. These are not partisan issues, these are American issues. If any Member of Congress commits themselves to spending reform, tax reform, regulation reform, and finding solutions to fix the housing crisis, then they will have me as an ally. Nevadans deserve better than what they have gotten from this Congress and White House, which is why I will continue to keep coming to this floor to raise my voice for the citizens of Nevada and I will fight every day to create jobs and get Nevadans back to work. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to extend well- deserved congratulations to four Nevadans who have earned the unique distinction of being named to the 2012 United States Olympic Team. Amanda Bingson, Jake Dalton, Connor Fields, and Michael Hunter will be competing in hammer throw, gymnastics, BMX, and boxing at the Olympic Games in London. I am proud to recognize some of our nation's greatest athletes and members of Team USA who will represent the Silver State proudly. A Silverado High School alumni and UNLV sophomore, Amanda Bingson, finished second in the hammer throw at the U.S. Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon. An ambitious athlete, she is a three-time Mountain West hammer-throw champion, two-time national All-American honoree, and recently set a new UNLV hammer throw record. Jake Dalton, a 2009 graduate of Spanish Spring High School, took victories in the floor exercise and vault in a combined points total from the VISA Championships and the Olympic Trials. He joins the rest of Team USA in the hopes of winning gold, a feat that has not been secured by men's gymnastics since 1984. Jake has won 4 individual NCAA titles, 13 All-American honors, and is believed to be Nevada's first male gymnast to make the Olympic team. Green Valley High School alumni, Connor Fields, won the U.S. Men's BMX Time Trials in Chula Vista, California, earning a place on the three-man team for the 2012 London Games. This 19-year-old southern Nevada native is the first rider in BMX supercross history to win three straight World Cup final races. Michael Hunter, Las Vegas heavyweight boxer, qualified for this summer's London Games with a semifinal victory in the AIBA Americas Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Rio de Janeiro. A three-time national champion, encouragement from Michael's family has always been paramount to reaching his Olympic dream. I wish Amanda, Jake, Connor, and Michael the best of luck in London this summer and look forward to watching them compete. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these four remarkable athletes as we show our pride and support for entire the U.S. Olympics Team.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon and Storey Counties, HCC, for its dedication to meeting Nevadans' healthcare needs. The HCC serves 8 of Nevada's rural areas by partnering with local agencies to provide health and wellness resources to the Silver State's most remote communities. I am proud to honor the HCC's commitment to serving the citizens of my home State. Local residents created the HCC in 1995 to provide a safe environment for Nevada's youth by reducing poverty and substance abuse. Adapting to Nevada's evolving needs, the HCC expanded its resources to provide rural Nevadans of all ages with health and wellness resources they could otherwise not access. Promoting healthy communities in Nevada for over a decade, the HCC remains dedicated to addressing local needs to capitalize on local strengths. Nevada has been one of the hardest-hit States in this difficult economic climate. Far too many Nevadans are out of work and continue facing great difficulties. I commend and appreciate organizations like the HCC, which offers assistance to struggling Nevadans who depend on their local resources. The HCC is empowering the communities of rural Nevada as we work to return America's economy back to a period of greater prosperity. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the HCC for all it does for the Silver State. I wish the HCC staff continued success and thank them wholeheartedly for their efforts to encourage a healthy community for all Nevadans.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to congratulate Mr. Norman ``Norm'' Dianda, who was recognized as the 2012 Reno Rodeo Parade Grand Marshal. My home State of Nevada is proud and privileged to acknowledge such an extraordinary civic leader. Since founding Q&D Construction in 1964, Norm has been committed to making the Truckee Meadows a great place to live. He has served as the heart and soul of the company by continually going above and beyond the call of duty each year, assisting numerous organizations for the betterment of the Silver State. A native Nevadan, Norm has volunteered his time to organizations such as the American Heart Association, American Lung Association, March of Dimes, American Cancer Society, the Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Saint Mary's Hospital, and, of course, the Reno Rodeo Association. His extraordinary charitable work in the community is admirable. For 9 of the past 13 years, Norm was voted Contractor of the Year by his peers in northern Nevada. He truly is one of the best. Recently, Norm was honored with the privilege of leading the Reno Rodeo Parade. Having attended and supported the Reno Rodeo for over 60 years, Norm has seen and experienced many changes in the community and the rodeo itself. His company has been instrumental in updating the rodeo grounds for years. Norm's love for Nevada, community service, and the Reno Rodeo are unmatched. Nevada's economy relies on events such as the Reno Rodeo, which celebrated its 93rd anniversary this year. Dependent upon nearly 400 volunteers from across the Truckee Meadows, the event is said to have an economic impact of $42 million in the Reno/Sparks area. This 10-day rodeo recognizes the passions and skills of some of the world's top professional cowboys and cowgirls and their contributions to the sport of rodeo. I admire and recognize Norm's commitment to northern Nevada. His dedication serves as a constant reminder of the importance of giving back to our communities. I am proud to stand with the residents of my home State to recognize his generosity and selflessness. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a native Nevadan for all that he does for the Silver State.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise today in the tradition of patriotic celebration to recognize 236 years of American independence. The Fourth of July is not only a proud and inspiring symbol of our nation's independence, but of our undeniable strength and unity. As we celebrate Independence Day this year, I am thankful for our forefathers' struggle to afford us freedom and liberty which we enjoy today. As the first battles of the Revolutionary War broke out in April 1775, many colonists were skeptical of complete independence from Great Britain. By the middle of the following year, tensions and hostility were high. As revolutionary sentiment spread, so too did the colonists' desire to become liberated from Great Britain. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of a resolution for independence. Two days later, our Founding Fathers adopted the Declaration of Independence, marking the United States' break with Great Britain. In 1870, the U.S. Congress instituted July 4th as a federal holiday. As Americans, we are proud to celebrate this important national holiday, a symbol of our patriotism and freedom. On the eve of this celebration, we also pay tribute to today's heroes; America's brave men and women in uniform who have fought tirelessly to protect and preserve the very freedom afforded to us by our Founding Fathers. Their perseverance in the face of adversity is a testament to the strength of the greatest military in the world. We are proud to honor our veterans, active duty soldiers, and military families for their grave sacrifices made for the safety and security of this great nation. Next week, as we gather with family and friends, let us reflect on the trials and tribulations of our nation's path to independence and the everlasting impact of this defining moment in America's history. With appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy today, I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the birth of our Nation's independence.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise today to discuss one of the biggest threats to economic growth in this country, and that is this administration's job-killing regulatory agenda. My goal in the Senate is to promote policies that create jobs. With my home State of Nevada leading the Nation in unemployment, I do not believe the private sector is doing just fine, and I support commonsense policies that give our job creators the necessary tools to provide for long-term economic growth. Under the current administration, they seem bent upon issuing regulation after regulation that threatens existing jobs and preventing new ones from being created. As I have stated before, you cannot be projobs and antibusiness at the same time. With unemployment at 11.7 percent in Nevada--and it continues to lead the Nation in unemployment--the only things as scarce as jobs in Nevada are private property and water. Roughly 87 percent of Nevada is controlled by the Federal Government, and the remaining 13 percent is heavily regulated by the Federal Government also. Nevada is also one of the driest States in the Nation. Because of this, water is a very precious commodity. As we debate the farm bill, I am proud to join with some of my colleagues in their efforts to provide some much needed regulatory relief for American farmers in rural America. However, the latest efforts by this administration go well beyond the agricultural sector. For years there has been a concerted effort to expand the regulatory reach over water in this country. After years of failed attempts to legislatively change the scope of regulatory authority over water, the EPA is now trying to overturn both congressional intent and multiple Supreme Court decisions to further their goal of overregulation. To put it into context, if this regulation were enacted, it would give the EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers the ability to regulate irrigation ditches, large mud puddles, or anything that contains standing water, regardless of whether it is permanent, seasonal, or manmade. Never before under the Clean Water Act have Federal regulations extended this far. This was not the intent of Congress when writing the Clean Water Act, and Congress has repeatedly rejected any legislative effort to alter the existing law. More disturbing, the administration has bypassed public outreach and has neglected to consider the economic impact of their proposed action. This is in addition to ignoring the fact that the Supreme Court twice affirmed the limits of the Federal authority under the Clean Water Act. But apparently the EPA believes it does not have to adhere to laws of the land. Expanding the Federal regulatory overreach into water also infringes on private property rights. It stops investments and development and infrastructure projects, including housing, schools, hospitals, roads, highways, agriculture, and energy. In my home State, this regulation will hurt farming, ranching, mining, and construction--the same middle- class, blue-collar jobs this administration claims to care about. In an already struggling economy, we cannot afford to create additional regulatory barriers that will cost jobs and prevent future economic growth. That is why Senators Barrasso, Inhofe, Sessions, and I have offered an amendment to the farm bill, as well as a stand-alone piece of legislation that would preserve the current definition of waters of the United States. The Preserve the Waters of the United States Act is simply straightforward legislation that would preserve the current definition of Federal waters as well as uphold private property rights. Opposition to this legislation has been disingenuous. It is ridiculous to assert that supporters of this important legislation are opposed to clean water. What I am opposed to is the Federal Government continuing its overreach and further hurting our economy and jeopardizing personal property rights and States rights. I am opposed to giving Washington bureaucrats the authority to regulate your backyard. And I am opposed to this administration using a closed-door process to issue job-killing regulations that have become far too common. I had hoped for a vote on this amendment that will allow the Senate to make a clear choice between jobs and an extreme environmental agenda. Unfortunately, the amendment process has once again broken down, and we will not have the ability to openly debate this important issue. I encourage my colleagues to support the Preserve the Waters of the United States Act and show their constituents that they stand with job creators. There is a vast and diverse coalition of support for our efforts to limit the Federal Government's overreach. It includes local governments, municipalities, manufacturers, small businesses, and many more. As an outdoorsman, I am committed to good stewardship of our natural resources and believe that we do not have to choose between a healthy environment and economic prosperity. The Preserve the Waters of the United States Act is a commonsense solution that will prevent jobs from being destroyed and keep private property rights from being further eroded by this Federal Government. I respectfully urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation and bring it to a vote. Mr. President, I yield the floor, and I suggest the absence of a quorum.

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

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Pat Bruce for being presented with the Bureau of Land Management's, BLM, ``Making a Difference'' National Volunteer Award. Mr. Bruce, a volunteer with the BLM Winnemucca District Black Rock Field Office, has been awarded for his outstanding volunteer service and leadership to preserve and maintain the Silver State's wilderness areas. I am proud to honor a Nevadan who is dedicated to giving back to our community to create a better and brighter tomorrow. As the field project coordinator for the Friends of Nevada Wilderness, Mr. Bruce has dedicated 6 years to organizing volunteer projects within wilderness areas in the Black Rock Desert, which span over 1 million acres of BLM lands. Hiking in remote areas, Mr. Bruce maps routes and boundaries to create an assessment of current ground conditions. He is also a volunteer supervisor for nonwilderness projects which include the restoration and protection of BLM's Black Rock Desert-High Rock Canyon Emigrant Trails National Conservation Area. The Silver State is home to vast wildlands and wildlife, which are vital to the character of our State. As a life long Nevadan and an avid outdoorsman, I was raised to respect and appreciate our State's natural surroundings and abundant wildlife. I first enjoyed these great Nevada treasures with my father and have since passed that same respect and appreciation along to my children. I understand the importance of good stewardship and appreciate Mr. Bruce's dedication to protecting and maintaining Nevada's lands. I am proud to represent him in the Senate and applaud him for his efforts to provide future generations of Nevadans the same recreational opportunities we enjoy. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Bruce for his commitment to Nevada.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize an organization from my home State of Nevada whose continued dedication to our Nation's active military, veterans, and their families is inspiring. As the Shine Family Foundation celebrates their first anniversary of becoming a recognized nonprofit organization, I thank them for their commitment to assisting our country's military community during times of hardship. We rely on organizations like the Shine Family Foundation to ease the stress that military families face when a family member is deployed. I applaud the Shine Family Foundation for their commitment to our heroes who sacrifice so much to keep America safe. The Shine Family Foundation was founded to address the needs of military personnel and their families when they are separated due to prolonged and often multiple deployments. As their loved ones are far away from home sacrificing their own well-being for the safety of our Nation, military families often struggle with hardships while they are apart. Having a brother who served overseas, I understand the sacrifices that military families make when a loved one is deployed. The Shine Family Foundation is committed to ensuring soldiers deployed across the globe are able to connect with their families back home. Last year, the Shine Family Foundation's gifting program helped provide school supplies, Christmas gifts, food, gift cards, and phone cards to more than 100 military families. Recognizing the changing dynamics of our military force, the foundation also provides assistance to veterans returning from Active Duty to help welcome them home. They also offer a mentoring program for young children whose parents or siblings are serving in war zones. I commend the Shine Family Foundation's commitment to honor and give back to our military communities. We must always remember the brave men and women in uniform and their families who make grave sacrifices to protect our freedom. As their organization grows, I know they will maintain a commitment to touching the lives of our troops and their families. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this honorable organization for all they do for our Nation's heroes.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise today in support of equal pay for equal work. The importance of women in the workplace is clear to every American. We all have women in families who have been a proud part of the workforce. For two decades my mother worked hard in a school cafeteria. My wife, a substitute teacher, has long been part of Nevada's workforce. My oldest daughter, in this economy, was fortunate enough to get a job after graduating from college just a few years ago. My youngest daughter, 16, recently got a summer job at a local food lot. Sixty percent of my Senate staff is female. America is a land of opportunity, and Americans are equally united against discrimination in any form. If my mother, my wife, or my daughters experienced workplace discrimination based on their gender, I would be the first to come to their defense and ensure any inequities were addressed. Congress passed the Equal Pay Act in 1963 to ensure every individual received equal pay for equal work regardless of gender. It is a strict liability statute that requires evidence of intent to discriminate. If there is evidence of intentional discrimination, appropriate remedies, including punitive and compensatory damages are available under the Civil Rights Act. Let me be clear: Pay discrimination based upon gender is unacceptable. Despite the political rhetoric around here, everyone agrees on this fact. The question is, Will the Paycheck Fairness Act actually address workplace inequality? The simple answer is no. Unfortunately, the only winners under this legislation would be trial lawyers, giving them a windfall, exposing employers to unlimited punitive damages. This legislation opens the door to frivolous lawsuits which already cost our economy billions of dollars every year. Legitimate cases that could be addressed under the current system would be lost in a flood of lawsuits initiated by lawyers hoping to win a few large judgments. These lawsuits, if successful, could transfer billions of dollars from employers to trial lawyers. In an economy already marked by uncertainty, this legislation would surely mean lost jobs, limitations on benefits, and pay cuts. These changes would mean much harder times ahead for Nevada's unemployed and underemployed, so many of whom are women. Instead of a trial lawyer bailout, let's address the issue of equal pay. Instead of holding votes designed for press releases, let's actually work to solve our Nation's problems. Congress can strengthen the Equal Pay Act without handing trial lawyers a blank check. The Wall Street Journal today referred to this legislation as ``a trial lawyer doozy just in time for the 2012 election ads.'' It goes on to say the bill ought to be called the ``Trial Lawyer Paycheck Act,'' since it is a recipe for a class action boom. The law automatically lists women as plaintiffs in class actions when lawyers sue employers, thereby requiring female employees to opt out of litigation with which they do not agree. Businesses would be treated as guilty until they are shown to be innocent. You cannot be projobs and antibusiness. This is just another example of the Democrats' war on free enterprise while Americans suffer with joblessness and underemployment. In fact, under this President there are 766,000 more women unemployed today than when he took office. I truly wish today's discussion was about leveling the playing field, truly ensuring pay equality and improving the economy. But years-old legislation mired in politics will not get us any closer to either ending gender discrimination in the workplace or ensuring that all women who want a job have a job. This proposal could not pass when Democrats controlled both Chambers of Congress. Yet here we are today voting on the same measure again and again. Those who are actually victims of workplace discrimination are only getting lipservice from Washington. Like many of my colleagues, I worry about this proposal that will only increase litigation and do little to actually address the problems of pay inequality. Advancements in pay parity have been made, but more needs to be done. Congress would better serve the hard-working women of our Nation if we focused on solutions that have actually worked. To this end, I have introduced the End Pay Discrimination Through Information Act. This legislation would protect employees who are trying to determine whether they are experiencing pay discrimination. No one in this body should be so naive to say that pay discrimination has been eradicated. What we need to do is ensure that employees can find the information they need to determine whether they have a legitimate claim against their employer. The End Pay Discrimination Through Information Act provides antiretaliation and whistleblower protections which both sides should be able to agree upon. My legislation is a solution within the existing framework of our legal system that does not provide a handout to trial lawyers as the underlying bill would do. My bill also recognizes the role of women in America's workforce and the fact that an increasing number of U.S. households depend upon the income of working women. My legislation states that ``equal pay for equal work is a principle and practice that should be observed by all employers.'' Every day working women are going above and beyond, balancing their responsibilities at home and at work to provide for their families. The least we can do is ensure that employers who intentionally discriminate on the basis of sex should be held accountable for their wrongdoing. I believe my bill is a reasonable bipartisan step in the right direction. Instead of bringing up legislation that has failed in the past and will in the future, this Congress needs to give our Nation the economic certainty needed to create good-paying jobs so hard-working women across this country will be able to provide for their families and achieve the career successes they deserve. I yield the floor.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to the men and women of our Nation who have given their lives for the cause of freedom and to honor those who are still with us today. On this Memorial Day weekend, let us stand together as Americans to pay our respects and mourn the loss of those brave soldiers who fought in defense of our liberty. As we gather across the Nation, we need to remember the invaluable sacrifices of our troops and their families are debts that can never fully be repaid. Every soldier whose life is taken in the line of duty is a great loss to our Nation. Lives have been sadly shortened, and we all feel an absence. We may never be able to measure the loss, but we can take solace in knowing that their lives served to inspire, defend freedom, and preserve life. Today, we commemorate the brave men and women in uniform who gave their lives while serving our country. We must also remember the members of our Armed Forces who are currently in harm's way. In this trying time in America's history, our soldiers have accepted the call of duty, knowing that the road ahead is dangerous and full of hardship. Their courage and resiliency are what make our military the best in the world. Our servicemembers face perilous situations in order to protect Americans from harm, and I am so grateful for all they do. Their commitment of service and self- sacrifice is what we admire, appreciate, and respect. As we continue withdrawing some of our combat forces, we pray for their safe return. As someone whose father is a disabled veteran and whose brother served overseas, I understand firsthand the struggles of our servicemembers and the significant sacrifices made by their families. The families of our military men and women also make tremendous sacrifices for our country and for the safety of our Nation. Each and every deployment causes great stress and a burden of separation that every member of these families experience. They have loved ones far away from home and are sacrificing their own well-being for the protection of our country. We must remember that these families serve as the backbone for the men and women who wear the uniform of our armed services, and our Nation owes them a debt of great gratitude. Today, we honor those who have given their life in service to their country. We will never forget our soldiers who fought for a better America and served our country with honor. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring our Nation's heroes who have given the ultimate sacrifice to make sure that our country remains safe and free.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I am so proud to rise today to honor a Nevadan whom I have known for my entire life and who has my utmost admiration and respect. It is with great pleasure to recognize my brother, Bryan Heller, as he retires from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of service to his State and country. On June 1, 2012, he will enter the next chapter of his life, and I am thrilled to see what he will accomplish next. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank Bryan for his many years of faithful, selfless service and extend heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of his retirement. Bryan began his naval career while studying civil engineering at Brigham Young University. In 1992, he entered the Navy in the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program and was later commissioned at Officer Candidate School in Newport, RI. Bryan successfully completed the rigorous nuclear pipeline and submarine school and subsequently reported to the USS Georgia, where he earned his gold dolphins and qualified as nuclear engineer officer. Over the course of his career, Bryan and his family moved across the country to respond to his next call of duty. Returning to his civil engineering roots, he transferred to the Civil Engineering Corps, CEC, where he experienced his first CEC tour aboard the NAS Oceana and became registered as a professional engineer. He also earned his master of science in civil engineering from the University of Texas. In 2007, Bryan reported to Commander, U.S. Naval forces Central Command, where he headed the Navy's construction program in Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and Lebanon. Currently serving as the desert operation officer, Bryan leads the Desert Integrated Product Team, which supports Navy bases outside of San Diego and Ventura County. Bryan continues to be an incredible asset to the naval community, and I know it will be difficult to replace him. Throughout his career, Bryan has been extensively decorated, exemplifying his strong work ethic and commitment to serve. He has been awarded three Meritorious Service Medals, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals. Today, it is also my distinct honor to recognize and express my gratitude to Bryan's family--his wife, Kristi, and children, Natascha, Heidi, Josef, and Jakob. Their strength during times when their family was apart embodies the resilience that makes our military communities strong. I constantly find myself in awe of the sacrifices and efforts that have been made by our military families. Each and every deployment causes great stress and a burden of separation that every member of these families experience. We must remember that these families serve as the backbone for the men and women who wear the uniform of our armed services, and they deserve our support. The invaluable sacrifices of our servicemembers and their families are debts that can never fully be repaid. I am proud to honor my brother today and recognize his accomplished career in the U.S. Navy. On the eve of this Memorial Day holiday weekend, we must recognize all our brave servicemembers and their commitment to our country. It is with great appreciation that I ask my colleagues to stand with me in honoring Bryan's service to our Nation as he moves onto the next phase of his life.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Madam President, last September I had the honor of coming to the floor to give my maiden speech to my fellow Nevadans and to the American people. In that speech, I quoted a great Nevadan, Mark Twain, who wrote: ``You are a coward when you even seem to have backed down from a thing you openly set out to do.'' I have always said that I ran for office to make a difference, and since my first day here I have set out to provide solutions to fix our current housing problems. Nevada is the epicenter of our Nation's housing crash. Home prices continue to decline in Nevada. In February of 2006 the average home value was $309,000. Today that has dropped to $120,000. Let me give my colleagues another fact: 5 years is how long Nevada has led the country in foreclosures. The people of Nevada have suffered far too long because of the recklessness of Wall Street that caused this crash. Many Nevadans are struggling to pay for mortgages or have their homes in foreclosure as a result of the poor job market and the economic downturn. Because of the high rates of foreclosure devastating Nevadans, many are being forced to move, to find a new place to live. Washington must provide solutions that help those who have been hit the hardest by this tough economy. I have worked on several solutions that I believe will provide some relief for many of those who are struggling. In February I introduced the Keeping Families in their Home Act or the Home Act. This legislation would allow banks, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, to offer long-term leases for foreclosed homes. By doing so, it gives families the opportunity to stay in their homes while also easing the pressure that foreclosures put on home values. The next month I joined Senator Stabenow to introduce the bipartisan Mortgage Forgiveness Tax Relief Act, which would ensure that homeowners who owe more on their mortgages than their homes are now worth would not be hit with an additional income tax if a part of their mortgage loan is forgiven. The current mortgage relief act expires at the end of this year, and this bill extends this critical safety net for underwater homeowners through 2015. Today I am proud to announce the introduction of the SOLD Act. Home buyers, sellers, and real estate agents have long observed that banks have been slow to approve home short sales. Current delays in approving short sales are a major challenge to consumers and to realtors. These delays can cause canceled contracts and homeowners being forced into foreclosure. Those short sales are seen as a far better outcome than foreclosure, and finding a way to improve and make this process more efficient has been very difficult. My legislation, the SOLD Act, would require that mortgage servicers respond to a short sale request within 30 days and make a final decision within 60 days of receiving the purchase offer. By placing a shot clock on these decisions, it will reduce the amount of time it takes to sell property, improve the likelihood that the transaction will close, and reduce the number of foreclosures in Nevada and across this country. Stability in the housing market is critical for long-term economic growth. As Nevada continues to lead the Nation in unemployment, it is more important now than ever for Washington to provide solutions and address our Nation's biggest problems. Getting Americans back to work and helping families who find themselves in tough economic times should be a priority of every Member of Congress. I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting the SOLD Act and help those who have fallen on tough times. Madam President, I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize five police officers from my home State of Nevada for being honored with the prestigious National Association of Police Officers, NAPO, 2012 TOP COPS award for their acts of heroism during a routine fraud call that turned into a deadly shooting. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers John Abel, Michael Ramirez, Corey Staheli, Beaumont Hopson, and David Williams' overwhelming courage in the line of duty epitomizes the best of what America's police officers have to offer. I am honored to recognize this group of Nevadans whose efforts to go above and beyond their oath to serve is a testament to the strength of our law enforcement community. This year marks NAPO's 19th annual TOP COPS Awards ceremony to honor members of the law enforcement community for their heroic actions. I stand with NAPO in their dedication to raising public awareness concerning the contributions made by our law enforcement officers to the welfare of our communities. Officer Ramirez literally stood in the line of fire to protect shoppers at a Las Vegas WalMart while attempting to apprehend a criminal. His colleagues bravely answered the call to duty and fatally shot the assailant after he shot Officer Ramirez several times in the arm and once in the chest. Fortunately, Officer Ramirez's bulletproof vest, along with the bravery displayed by his colleagues, saved his life. I am so honored to acknowledge these exceptional individuals who are being recognized for their commitment to the safety, protection, and well-being of the people and community of Las Vegas. It is a privilege to recognize our law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line for our protection every day. Their dedication to upholding and enforcing the law is essential to the welfare of our communities and is not taken for granted. The citizens of Nevada are proud to honor John, Michael, Corey, Beaumont, and David as TOP COPS and thank them for serving and protecting the Silver State.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to congratulate a student from my home State for being recognized as one of Nevada's top youth volunteers of 2012. Angela Foremaster, a senior at Legacy High School in Las Vegas, was honored with the Prudential Spirit of Community Award for her advocacy on behalf of foster children and homeless teens in the Greater Las Vegas area. I am proud to recognize Ms. Foremaster for this accomplishment as she serves as a role model for students across the nation striving to make a difference in the lives of America's youth. Having five adopted siblings, Ms. Foremaster understands the importance of supporting organizations that find adoptive families for children who wait in foster care. She has dedicated more than 1,000 hours to foster organizations around Nevada to assist their efforts to provide a supportive community for children. One winter, as she helped a group prepare for the holiday season, Ms. Foremaster noticed that they weren't providing children with stockings for Christmas. This experience encouraged her to hang flyers, asking for donations and small gifts to help her fill stockings for adoptive children and displaced teens. Ms. Foremaster was thrilled to receive generous donations that enabled her to fill 250 stockings to help bring the holiday spirit to kids in needs. I am so appreciative that Ms. Foremaster is raising awareness of the needs of our country's struggling youth. In this tough economic period, America's children deserve our attention more than ever. Since coming to Congress, I have supported legislation that assists individuals who have fallen on hard times, recognizing the importance of temporary safety nets. It is of paramount importance in this distressed economy that we keep the needs of our most vulnerable at the forefront while focusing on solutions to our nation's long-term economic problems. I ask my colleagues to join me today in congratulating a young Nevadan for her incredible determination to assist our nation's youth. The citizens of Las Vegas are fortunate to have such a generous volunteer who selflessly gives back to her community and exemplifies the very best America's youth has to offer.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to honor a young Nevadan for being recognized as one of America's top 10 youth volunteers of 2012. Ashlee Smith, a seventh grader from Sparks, NV, was awarded the prestigious national Prudential Spirit of Community Award for her efforts to assist child victims of house fires and natural disasters. I am proud to congratulate one of Nevada's own for her leadership, compassion, and selflessness as she sets a fine example for students all across the United States who want to make a difference. Ashlee's home burned down in a devastating fire in 2005, destroying all that her family owned--including her childhood toys. Ever since this experience, she has dedicated her free time to helping children who are victims of natural disasters recover their lost belongings. At 8 years old, she founded Ashlee's Toy Closet, a nonprofit organization that helps low-income children as well as those who have been affected by natural disasters. Over the past 5 years, she has collected and distributed more than 175,000 toys to children who have been affected by natural disasters. Ashlee's commitment to children in need is inspiring and reinforces the importance of serving our communities. Having four children of my own, I understand the importance of creating an environment where our kids can give back to their communities. Encouraging our Nation's next generation of leaders to become engaged in community service will help ensure that they are active and positive contributors to their local community. We must encourage our Nation's youth to excel beyond the academic arena, demonstrate strong leadership skills, and show active initiative to support their communities. I am proud to stand with the citizens of Sparks to congratulate Ashlee on this exceptional accomplishment. As she continues to grow her organization, I hope that she will serve as an example for Nevada's youth and will continue building upon this experience in her professional and personal future. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing an ambitious Nevadan who has helped make a difference in the lives of thousands all over the Nation.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. I thank the Senator from Nebraska for yielding time and also those from Oklahoma and Arizona for this colloquy that we are having today and the ability to talk about issues that, frankly, the other side will not talk about--in fact, their conspicuous absence today on the other side is clear of the depth of their budget. As we have heard, we have not had a budget for the last 3 years. So I rise today in support of a serious debate concerning the direction of our Nation. Three years have passed since Congress adopted a binding budget resolution. In this light, I respectfully submit that the American people do not believe that today's debate is serious. They know the Senate is not going to adopt a budget; once again it will ignore one of the most basic and important jobs of Congress. What the Senate is doing this week could be considered political comedy if the stakes were not so high. In fact, the fact is this is not a serious discussion. In May of last year, the majority leader stated: There is no need to have a Democratic budget, in my opinion. It would be foolish for us to do a budget at this stage. As early as February of this year, it was stated by the majority leader that there is no need to bring a budget to the Senate floor this year. If that is the case, this week's debate is nothing more than a political sideshow, and the American people are tired of it. Ever wonder why the approval rating of Congress is so low? They hate Washington because it spends its time on stunts like this instead of working together for the good of the country; pushing votes for campaign press releases instead of solving problems. The bottom line is if Congress does not do its job, then its Members should not get paid. That is exactly what I have proposed with the No Budget, No Pay Act. The American people know in an election year too many of their representatives in Washington are afraid of the tough choices that would help get our Nation on a path of fiscal sanity. Most of the people watching the so-called budget debate will witness exactly what they have come to expect from Washington: the Republicans blaming Democrats, Democrats blaming Republicans. At the end of the day, all we will have accomplished is filling another page in the Congressional Record. Unfortunately, Americans will face the same fiscal disasters they did before this debate. Unless we change course, Federal spending per household is projected to rise to $34,602 by the year 2022, a 15- percent increase in one decade. The government's own actuaries tell us Medicare is going bankrupt in 10 years, Social Security one decade later. Both sides should be willing to come together to strengthen and preserve these programs for future generations instead of simply ignoring the problems because it is inconvenient in an election year. Our national debt will reach $16 trillion before the end of the year. The Federal Government's unfunded obligations will total some $100 trillion. Yet there will be no budget this year, just like there has been no budget for the past 3 years. We cannot look beyond the beltway and say this failure of leadership has not had tremendous impact on the people we represent. National unemployment has registered above 8 percent for the last 38 months. Nevada has led the Nation in unemployment for more than 2 years. Almost everyone I speak to in Nevada--businesses, job creators, elected officials, and families--speaks of the uncertainty that has characterized their lives in this economy. We are not moving forward as a Nation, and it is no surprise to these no-nonsense folks. They know from everyday life in their businesses and in their households that you cannot move forward without a plan. When Americans look to Washington, they see no meaningful proposal, no viable plan, and no progress. There are those who claim the Budget Control Act is a budget, and I strongly disagree. This bill does not establish priorities or a path forward for our Nation as a real budget should. It does not provide certainty, nor does it address many of the pressing fiscal problems we have today. If the Budget Control Act were truly a budget, there would be no need for this discussion today. It is past time for Congress to hold itself accountable. That is why I have advocated my No Budget, No Pay Act for nearly a year. My legislation calls on the House and Senate to pass a concurrent budget resolution and the regular appropriations bills before the beginning of each fiscal year. Failure to do so would result in the loss of pay until we take our jobs seriously and make these bills our legislative priority. The Congressional Budget Act of 1974 already requires Congress to pass a budget by April 15. My bill creates an enforcement mechanism to further encourage Members of Congress to do their constitutional duty. I have spoken on this floor previously about No Budget, No Pay, but I believe now is the time to consider whether we are willing to make this promise to our constituents. I believe it is more important now than ever because the American people are increasingly losing confidence in Congress and its ability to deliver solutions. No Budget, No Pay is not a silver-bullet solution to our Nation's fiscal challenges, but it would indicate that we are hearing the concerns of the American people and are willing to participate in the dialog necessary to get our country moving again. I am pleased that 10 of my Senate colleagues have cosponsored this important effort, and others have expressed support for No Budget, No Pay on the Senate floor. I am especially grateful to Senators Lieberman and Collins for holding a hearing to discuss No Budget, No Pay as a meaningful proposal that would help hold Congress accountable to the American people. This bipartisan bicameral proposal is worthy of the Senate's time if we are serious about regaining the trust of the American people whom we are supposed to be representing. My colleagues, our Nation can literally no longer afford to survive on sound bites and press releases about the importance of budgeting. We need to engage in the serious business of budgeting for our Nation's future. That work should start today. Sadly, I simply don't believe we will make the tough choices necessary until Members of Congress have more skin in the game. I will continue calling for the adoption of the No Budget, No Pay Act.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, reserving the right to object, there has not been a budget passed in the Senate and the House in over 3 years. I would argue that the exercise we have ending tomorrow will have no substantial difference. I do not think there is anyone in America who believes we will have a budget at the end of tomorrow. The Congressional Budget Act of 1974 requires Congress to pass a budget by April 15. So with that, I ask unanimous consent that the request of the leader be modified so that S. 1981, the No Budget, No Pay Act, be automatically discharged from the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee, the bill be immediately placed on the calendar, and that when the Senate proceeds to the budget votes mentioned in the Senator's request, the Senate also vote on the motion to proceed to S. 1981 under the same terms and conditions of the other budget votes.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Madam President, today I wish to recognize an organization from my home State of Nevada whose continuous support of military servicemen and women and their families is truly inspiring. Their unwavering commitment to military families across the Silver State is unmatched and demonstrates their passion for those in need. Members of our military serve the United States to preserve and protect our freedom, and for that I am forever grateful. They dedicate their lives to serving this great nation and constantly make sacrifices to ensure the safety of our country. Generations of Americans enjoy greater peace and security because of the tireless efforts of these brave men and women. The Nevada Military Support Alliance provides comfort and care, both personal and financial, to the families and survivors of Nevada's fallen and returning patriots. When a soldier does come home from a war zone, returning to civilian life is not an easy task. Both the soldier and their families experience an incredible amount of stress during this transition. This is where the Nevada Military Support Alliance steps in. They offer unprecedented levels of assistance for Nevada military members and their families for the rarities of challenges they face on a day-to-day basis. We can never do enough for our nation's veterans, but with the help of the Nevada Military Support Alliance, we can ensure that more assistance is provided. Their continued dedication to our active military, veterans, and their families is unparalleled and stands as an example for us all. As the Nevada Military Support Alliance celebrates their Second Annual Gala this weekend, I want to thank them for everything they have given to Nevada's men and women in uniform and for ensuring that support is provided for these heroes. We owe our veterans and their families a great deal of gratitude for their personal sacrifices. On behalf of everyone who enjoys the freedoms that are unique to our great nation, thank you.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. I will.

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

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, I rise in support of efforts to prevent an increase in the student loan rates. For millions of Americans, education is the key to success and a better future for themselves and for their families. Workers with a bachelor's degree today earn about 70 percent more each year than those with only a high school diploma. We all want a better life for our children and for our grandchildren, and for many of them, a college education is part of achieving that goal. However, higher education carries an increasingly substantial pricetag. One of my children has already completed her higher education, both my sons are currently in college, and my youngest is preparing for her posthigh school education. I know firsthand the financial strain on both the college students and their families. The inflation-adjusted cost of college has almost tripled over the last 25 years, while median family income over the same period of time has risen only about 10 percent. Fees keep rising rapidly, soaring 8.3 percent last year at public universities and 4.5 percent at private institutions. In 2009, more than half of all public college graduates were in debt, with an average loan burden of nearly $20,000. For private college graduates, the percentage and amount of debt is even greater. The loan burden itself is substantial, and the last thing graduates need to worry about is high interest rates on these loans. I was proud to vote for the initial efforts to keep student loan interest rates low back when I was serving in the House in 2007. Now I am a proud cosponsor of the Interest Rate Reduction Act which has been offered by my friend, the Senator from Tennessee, Mr. Alexander. This legislation prevents student loans from doubling from 3.4 percent to 6.8 percent, and I truly hope Congress will be able to come together with a bipartisan agreement soon to prevent this increase from going into effect on July 1. While student loan rates should be addressed, I am even more worried about the overall economic climate facing college grads. Recent reports found that more than half the bachelor degree holders under the age of 25 last year, which was 1.5 million young Americans, were jobless or underemployed. Of the 1.5 million languishing in the job market, half were underemployed. These young would-be professionals are either unemployed and unable to start paying their loans or have a job that may only provide enough for them to barely scrape by paycheck to paycheck. Instead of becoming the workforce of the next generation, the majority of recent graduates are finding their personal lives and finances mired in this ailing economy. Parents who have been laid off or who have seen their savings diminish have not been able to help their children through their education as they may have planned or wanted to. Our children and grandchildren are paying the price for Washington's failure to lead our Nation out of this economic crisis. Addressing student loan rates is important and we need to accomplish that work promptly, but our work for America's colleges students and recent graduates is far from over. Congress should be doing something every day to provide more stability and certainty for businesses so they will create jobs and hire these graduates. We need to pass a budget and review expiring tax provisions. We need to get bureaucratic redtape out of the way and let American job creators do what they do best. Let's not put off until tomorrow what we can do today to make sure good-paying jobs will be available for graduates who have worked so hard to provide for a better future and let's pass a bipartisan measure that keeps student interest rates low. Thank you. I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I am proud to recognize one of Nevada's veterans whose overwhelming sacrifice on behalf of those who served our great Nation is inspiring. As I speak, Mr. Lyons is traveling on foot from his hometown of Reno, NV to our Nation's capital to encourage legislators to assist our homeless veterans. This is a serious issue that I have worked on since I was elected to Congress. Today, over 100,000 veterans are on America's streets. Many have serious problems and need support. That is why I stand with Mr. Lyons as he completes his 2,600 mile journey. The brave men and women who served our country and fought to protect our freedom are coming back to a struggling economy with few job prospects, leaving them unable to afford housing. Our Nation's servicemembers have made great sacrifices for our country, and they deserve our gratitude and support. We must welcome them home and help them transition to civilian life. Assisting our Nation's veterans and families is of the utmost importance. I am also grateful that Mr. Lyons is raising awareness for an issue that I am personally involved with. Having a family member who serves in the Armed Forces, I have always been an advocate for our troops. That is why I proudly cosponsored and voted in support of bipartisan legislation, the VOW to Hire Heroes Act, which was signed into law by President Obama. This legislation provides a tax credit to employers who hire veterans while also offering education and funding to provide on-the-job training and employment assistance to veterans. Ensuring our returning soldiers come home to good paying jobs is the least we can do and the VOW to Hire Heroes Act helps put our Nation's veterans back to work. Mr. Lyons' selfless efforts to honor and acknowledge our Nation's veterans epitomize service over self. I commend Mr. Lyons for his steadfast determination in raising awareness for those who keep us safe. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Lyons for his service to our country and commitment to helping veterans in need.

Mr. HELLER

Mr. HELLER. Madam President, I rise today in support of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act. I am glad the Senate is finally considering this important legislation, and I am proud to be the crucial 60th cosponsor of the bill. I commend Chairman Leahy for producing a bill that enjoys broad bipartisan support, and I look forward to swift passage of the VAWA reauthorization. Violence in all its forms is unacceptable, but it is particularly horrifying when it takes place in the home, which should be a sanctuary for all who live there. Yet a recent CDC report found that nearly half of all women living in my home State of Nevada at the time of the survey experienced domestic violence at some point in their lifetime. This statistic is sickening and unacceptable. Women and children often feel powerless to escape abusive or dangerous situations, which too often end in tragedy. My home State knows this sad reality all too well. Nevada is ranked first in the Nation for women murdered by men in domestic violence. Sadly, our State has appeared in the top three States in this horrific category in the last 7 years. Thankfully, organizations throughout the State of Nevada work tirelessly to help those jeopardized by domestic violence. While these groups have faced significant challenges due to funding cuts in recent years, they are doing their best with what they have to provide assistance to families who need it most. According to last year's Nevada Census of Domestic Violence Services, nearly 500 Nevadans received crisis assistance through Nevada's domestic violence programs on a single day; 272 found refuge in emergency shelters or temporary housing; 204 received nonresidential assistance. Staff and volunteers fielded an average of six hotline calls every hour. Despite the best efforts of our State's domestic violence programs, 25 cases of unmet requests for services were reported on a single day due to shortage of funds and staff. That means thousands of Nevadans could not access the services they needed last year. Nevada's struggling economy has limited State resources to help those who are affected by domestic violence. Reauthorization of VAWA will provide greater certainty for organizations that work hard every day to prevent and address domestic violence. I trust this bill will ensure and enable domestic violence programs to plan for the future and serve even more Americans in need. Importantly, this bill will also further prevention efforts that, hopefully, will result in reducing domestic violence and help our Nation's most vulnerable. I am also pleased this legislation reauthorizes programs vital to the National Council of Family and Juvenile Court Judges. The National Council has made a strong impact in courts throughout the Nation by teaching judges innovative strategies that equip them to appropriately assist families and young people who face significant hardships. I cannot be more proud of the positive changes the National Council is effecting in courtrooms and communities in Nevada and nationwide, and I am glad this bill will further their efforts. As a fiscal conservative, I am also glad this bill was written with full awareness of the fiscal crisis our Nation is facing. This legislation repeals duplicative provisions and programs, creating a more efficient system. I encourage my colleagues to use this bill as a model when considering additional reauthorizations this year. We must not forget the need to implement commonsense budgetary practices across the board in order to put our Nation on a path to long-term fiscal responsibility. While not perfect, I am pleased the Senate is proceeding with this bill and trust it will further the important goal of reducing violence in all its forms. This bipartisan effort is an example of how Members of Congress should be working together to solve the problems facing our Nation and protecting those who have no voice. I look forward to the passage of the VAWA reauthorization measure and believe it will truly make a difference in the lives of countless women in Nevada and throughout the United States. Madam President, I yield the floor.