Sheila Jackson Lee

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 4785, bipartisan legislation that would extend the authorization of the $5,000 special assessment for the Domestic Trafficking Victims' Fund. Human trafficking is one of the greatest ongoing threats to human rights in the world--and in this country. An estimated 25 percent of human trafficking victims are reportedly in my home state of Texas, with Houston being one of the largest hubs for human trafficking in the country. And although some populations are at greater risk of victimization than others, human trafficking spans all races, ages, genders, and every socioeconomic status. In 2020, the National Human Trafficking Hotline identified more than 16,000 victims of human trafficking, who likely represent only a fraction of the actual problem. In that same year, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received more than 21.7 million reports, most of which were related to child sexual abuse material, online enticement, child sex trafficking, and child sexual molestation. Victims who have been exploited or abused sexually or trafficked, whether for labor or sex, require and deserve victim-focused, culturally informed responses from well-trained providers and law enforcement, that direct them towards emergency and long-term services critical to sustaining them as they heal. Funding and grants--from the Domestic Trafficking Victims' Fund to develop, expand, strengthen, and provide these victim services and programming--derive from the mandatory special assessment, which is imposed on perpetrators convicted of human trafficking, sexual abuse and exploitation, and child pornography. Because it is our duty not only to ensure victims and survivors of these ghastly crimes are not re-victimized but also to provide them with services that help them successfully re-integrate into society, we must extend the authorization of the $5,000 special assessment. I support S. 4875 and encourage my colleagues to do the same. We must also continue to shape legislation to improve upon the U.S. antitrafficking response--as well as other legislation and programming aimed at preventing sexual exploitation and sexual abuse and protecting victims and survivors--particularly our children and youth. That is why I introduced H.R. 7566, the Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act, to ensure schools are safe havens for students. It is my hope that my bill, which was ordered to be reported favorably by voice vote, will be brought to the floor for consideration soon.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5774, the ``Expediting Disaster Recovery Act of 2022'' which promotes swift strategic implementation of resources by the president following natural disasters. After the declaration of a major disaster, the Expediting Disaster Recovery Act of 2022 authorizes the President to direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance for unmet needs of those impacted by the disaster. The President may also provide financial or direct assistance to individuals or households to construct permanent or semi-permanent housing in areas outside the continental United States if the President deems it a more cost-effective solution. According to the National Center for Environmental Information, the U.S. spent approximately $152 Billion just last year from various environmental events such as the Deep Freeze in Texas and Hurricanes across the Gulf Coast. One of the most critical and unprecedented natural disaster emergencies was the Deep Freeze in Texas, resulting in a number of unforeseen complications for Texas residents. Millions of households lost power during the Deep Freeze, disrupting their heating, food and water supplies, and communication systems. Based on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission report for the Deep Freeze, estimated costs for damages in Texas reached a staggering $80 Billion, with $35 Billion alone due to physical damages, of which insurance only covered $20 Billion. Texas residents will need to pay for a large portion of the damages, putting their own lives on hold until they are financially stabilized. Meanwhile, families who are unable to meet the expenses out of pocket are stuck in bleak living conditions. Alongside the unprecedented winter storms in Texas, were the devastating effects of Hurricane Ida, which ravaged many coastal cities and counties. The National Center for Environmental Information estimated that there were $75 Billion in damage costs. Unfortunately, most home insurance policies do not cover flood damages, including damages caused by Hurricane Ida, This means that individuals would have needed to purchase separate policies dedicated for flood damages on top of the already rising home insurance prices. Recent flood disasters, such as those in Kentucky, have once again highlighted the dangers of inadequate planning and the overall expenses incurred by its residents. Outdated federal flood zone maps underestimate the occurrence of floods within certain communities. Therefore, insurance companies, which base their policies on federal flood zone maps, end up paying for a small portion of damages to households. For residents of some of the poorest counties in the U.S., this means they will be forced to pay mostly out of pocket for all damage expenses, further hindering their chances of recovery from future disasters. H.R. 5774 can help families with unmet needs, easing financial burdens by distributing funds for the purpose of rebuilding homes and communities. This can provide these families the opportunity to dedicate their finances towards health concerns, exploring education, and other basic living expenses. Millions of families suffer from natural disaster events without the ability to recover effectively. With the help of the Expediting Disaster Recovery Act of 2022, families with unmet needs will be able to recover more fully and more rapidly, allowing them to reinvest themselves in their communities and return to their normal lifestyles. The Expediting Disaster Recovery Act of 2022 sets forth the requirements for the President to establish swift and effective financial and technical assistance to aid in the recovery of families who may be unable to cover financial costs for repair and rebuilding. I urge my colleagues to support this very helpful legislation.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 2293, the ``Civilian Reservist Emergency Workforce Act of 2021'' or ``CREW Act.'' This bill would amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to provide certain employment rights to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reservists. FEMA reservists are temporary, on-call, and intermittent employees who are crucial to the agency's mission to swiftly respond to disasters--but, they currently do not have employment protections. The bill makes employment protections under the Uniformed Services and Reemployment Rights Act (USRRA) applicable to FEMA reservists who deploy to major disaster and emergency sites. It allows reservists to claim such rights under USERRA even if they do not provide notice of their absence from work due to deployment. The bill ensures that reservists will be able to return to their full-time jobs once their disaster response mission is complete. These FEMA workers were essential during the Texas Freeze of 2021, the historic natural disaster Hurricane Harvey, and the initial outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic. We need to protect intermittent FEMA employees' rights to return to their full-time jobs after performing life-changing and life-saving work in our communities. Currently, FEMA faces a large shortfall of reservists because it is difficult to recruit and retain Americans who can balance reservist duties and full-time employment. With this bill's protections for employees, FEMA's ability to recruit and retain employees would be enhanced. With more FEMA employees, we can combat disasters and crises quicker. Our Nation must never again be so ill-prepared to weather a disaster like Hurricane Harvey or a crisis like COVID-l9.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise enthusiastically to support the rule and the underlying bill. As I do so, let me ask my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join me in asking President Trump to lower the rhetoric so we don't have people dying every day because of his provocative words. Let me say, this bill is a miracle of success. It is a miracle because we, the Democrats, are giving back $300 billion to reduce the inflation that was created by the Trump tax cut that has been killing us for the last couple of years. I am excited about the idea that those who are not paying their fair tax, the top 1 percent--$160 billion they do not pay--yet we will raise no taxes on those making $400,000 or less. We will make corporations and ultrawealthy persons pay their fair share through the IRS working to help working people. No new taxes on families. That is crucial. Now, on the underlying bill, I would have wanted to offer an amendment dealing with the carried interest, which would have gotten us $14 billion. I wanted to make sure that we had the $35 limit on insulin and, as well, help for Medicaid recipients. This is a great bill. I support the rule and the underlying bill. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend you and Chairman McGovern for the Rule enabling the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, H.R. 5376, to be considered and voted on the floor today. Rapid action on the Inflation Reduction Act is vital, as it will have a major positive impact on quality-of-life for American families, reduce inflation for all Americans, and bolster our national economy and competitiveness for years to come. This landmark legislation will provide urgently needed relief, as well as many reforms and initiatives that will help our nation transition to its next era of economic success for all Americans. Even though H.R. 5376 doesn't include every solution that I hoped would be included, I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically support the rule and the bill because of the overwhelmingly positive effects that the Inflation Reduction Act will have. The bill makes historic investments to combat climate change by putting the United States on a path to reduce emissions by 40 percent by 2030, including investments in clean energy and energy efficiency that will lower household energy costs. The bill's clean energy and emission reduction programs attack the climate crisis at its source--electric utilities, cars, trucks, and even methane-producing farm animals--while ensuring that rural and disadvantaged communities share the benefits. It would bring electric cars--and the fuel costs they save--within the reach of working families. It would also lower utility bills, promote community solar projects, and boost America's clean energy manufacturing base and workforce. The Inflation Reduction Act will lower the costs of prescription drugs by empowering Medicare--for the first time--to negotiate prices, while limiting out-of-pocket costs and price increases. Medicare would negotiate a maximum price of high-cost prescription drugs for Medicare Part B and Part D that will take effect in 2026. This provision will make prescription drugs more accessible and stop drug companies from raising the price of prescription medicines faster than inflation. This legislation will also extend the Affordable Care Act's health insurance premium tax credits through 2025. This will avert a huge price hike in premiums for the majority of the 14 million people who have enrolled in ACA Marketplace plans. The Inflation Reduction Act would create a more equitable tax system by applying a 15 percent minimum tax to corporations with more than $1 billion in average annual income over a three-year period. This would ensure that these corporations at least pay roughly the same rate as many working taxpayers. The bill would also impose a 1 percent excise tax on corporate stock buybacks, and it would enable the IRS to reverse staff cuts and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. By creating a more equitable tax system, this legislation will ease the pressure of inflation and allow more Americans to participate productively in the economy. Americans overwhelmingly agree that corporations have paid too little for too long. Only in Washington would Republicans fight against cutting costs for low- and middle- income workers and their families in defense of wealthy corporations. That point about fundamental equity brings me to one of my regrets about this bill. When the agreement that led to this bill was announced in July, it had a provision to close the carried interest loophole. That tax code loophole allows managers of private equity and other investment funds to pay lower taxes on their earnings than those paid by wage and salary earners. The Senate agreement, as it was first announced, would have closed the carried interest loophole by extending the required holding period to five years, which is more in line with how long private equity funds typically hold their investments. But unfortunately, the Senate dropped that provision from the bill, giving up $13 billion that it would have raised over ten years. The carried interest loophole benefits billionaires, and by that provision being dropped from the bill, billionaires scored a victory worth billions of dollars at the time when most Americans are struggling to make ends meet. Obviously, that offends principles of equity and fairness, and, if I had the opportunity amend H.R. 5376, I would have offered an amendment to close the carried interest loophole. Another amendment that I would have offered would have lowered the costs of insulin for people whose health care coverage is with private insurance companies. While I am delighted that H.R. 5376 imposes a $35 per month cap on the price of insulin for people covered by Medicare, this cap should have extended to Americans with private insurance. I was very upset that Senate Republicans rejected that policy, as it is unconscionable to force people to choose between affording their life-sustaining insulin or their other daily needs. Some Americans have died because they couldn't afford their insulin, which has been subject to unjustifiable pricing practices. So, I would have offered an amendment to ensure that all Americans, including those with private health insurance, benefit from a $35 per month cap on their insulin costs. Finally, I was disappointed that Senator Raphael Warnock's amendment about Medicaid expansion was not adopted by the Senate. This amendment sought to close the Medicaid coverage gap so that 2.2 million people living in poverty, with no affordable health care, would be able to see a doctor when they are sick, pregnant, or have other health needs. The third amendment I would have offered would have closed the Medicaid coverage gap for health care to impoverished Americans who have a need for, and the right to, health care. Although it is not in this bill, I will continue to fight for this. Even without those three elements, the Inflation Reduction Act is excellent legislation that will be a great leap forward for the American people, particularly for my constituents in the 18th Congressional District of Texas, as well as for all of America.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I want to dispel the myths of the smoke and mirrors that are flaming up across the way with my friends. Do they not recognize the opportunity that we have for reducing the costs of healthcare with subsidies so that working families can get the Affordable Care Act? Or excitingly, I am so delighted that there is a cap on insulin. Diabetes is raging for those on Medicare, and we are going to get those on private insurance as well. Let's tell the truth about taxes. No taxes on those making $400,000 or less but getting the $160 billion in the top 1 percent that have refused to pay their fair share. What is this folder? These are letters from my county attorneys and communities about concrete batch facilities put in neighborhoods of Hispanics and African Americans by Trinity Gardens in the East End and Aldine. This legislation, $60 billion, will help save these people who have been living in their homes and losing their homes because environmental toxins like a concrete batch facility gets put in their neighborhood and creates respiratory diseases: asthma, bad grass, and parks that you can't play in. Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation. Why? Because it is for the working people in America.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to wholeheartedly and enthusiastically support the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, H.R. 5376. I commend our Democratic colleagues in the Senate--whose tireless efforts culminated in this landmark legislation--and our Democratic Caucus in the House, whose commitment to the policies embodied in this legislation kept the prospect for progress alive and ready for action over the past year. We persevered to extend health care benefits, limit the cost of medication, combat the climate crisis, help impoverished Americans, and reduce inflation for all Americans. We never relinquished our focus and determination to help those who are suffering from the economic aftershocks of COVID-19. Enactment of the Inflation Reduction Act is crucial at this vital moment, as Americans need the economic relief that this bill will provide. It will boost quality-of-life for American families by reducing costs and inflation, and bolstering our national economy and competitiveness for years to come. This legislation is truly historic because it will dramatically advance major policies and programs supported by the vast majority of Americans, and it will do so in a fiscally responsible way, applying much of the revenue raised to deficit reduction. A key message that this legislation sends is that Congress, with Democrats at the helm, is focused on providing aid to working Americans, middle-income families, impoverished Americans, and those who most need a little help during challenging times. This is a stark contrast from a few years ago, when Republicans in control of Congress passed bills that gave massive tax breaks to the wealthiest people and corporations, and helped the rich get richer, while tossing mere table scraps to the middle class, and barely a few crumbs to Americans suffering in poverty. So, I'm delighted that the Inflation Reduction Act will provide urgently needed financial relief to Americans in need, reforms to address the climate crisis, and initiatives that will help our nation transition to its next era of success for all Americans. Among the provisions that will directly benefit family finances across the country are the Inflation Reduction Act's health care reforms, initiatives, assistance, and restraints on cost increases. For the first time after years of efforts by Democrats, Medicare will be able to negotiate with drug companies to lower the price of medications for Americans receiving Medicare. Maximum prices for 10 drugs will take effect in 2026, 15 more drugs in 2027, another 15 in 2028, and 20 more in 2029 and beyond. Manufacturers that do not offer a price equal to or less than the maximum fair price will be subject to a civil monetary penalty of 10 times the difference between the offered price and the maximum fair price for all of its drugs sold in violation of that. The IRA will impose rebates on drug companies that increase prices faster than inflation to limit annual increases in drug prices for people with Medicare. The inflation rebate provision will be implemented beginning in 2023, using 2021 as the base year for determining price changes relative to inflation. Another major reform is a new $2,000 annual cap on Medicare Part D out-of-pocket spending starting in 2025. Currently, there is no limit on out-of-pocket spending for prescription drugs that seniors need. This bill ensures that devastating diagnoses, like cancer, will never again mean paying tens of thousands out-of-pocket for just one drug, which forces Medicare recipients into severe financial hardship. The bill expands the low-income subsidy program in Medicare Part D. Currently, it is fully available to those earning less than 135 percent of the federal poverty level, and partially available to those earning less than 150 percent of that level. The bill eliminates the partial subsidy, giving those earning up to 150% of the poverty level the full low-income subsidy in Medicare Part D. The bill initiates a major reform to help Medicare patients who need insulin and have been forced to pay exorbitant costs for their life- sustaining supply. The Inflation Reduction Act caps out-of-pocket costs at $35 per month for insulin co-pays under Medicare programs. Cost-sharing for Part D plans will be capped at $35 for approved insulin products starting in 2023. After 2025, the price will be the lesser of $35, 25 percent of the maximum fair price, or 25 percent of the negotiated price. From January to March 2023, there will be temporary subsidies for any cost sharing over $35 per month. While I am delighted that H.R. 5376 imposes a $35 per month cap on the price of insulin for people covered by Medicare, this cap should have extended to Americans with private insurance. I was very upset that Senate Republicans rejected that policy, as it is immoral to side with drug companies that force people to choose between life-sustaining insulin and other daily needs. Some Americans have died because they couldn't afford their insulin, which is subject to unjustifiable pricing practices. This bill should have ensured that Americans with private health insurance would benefit from a $35 per month cap on their insulin costs, and I will continue the fight for this reform. The Inflation Reduction Act lowers health insurance premiums for nearly 13 million low- and middle-income Americans whose coverage is from the Affordable Care Act. The bill allocates $64 billion to extend tax credits for three years, through 2025. Recipients saved on average $800 in 2021. Monthly premiums were estimated to decrease by $50 per person on average in 2022, and 80 percent of ACA enrollees with the tax credits were able to find a plan that amounted to $10 or less per month. This is extremely important because extension of these credits subsidizing the cost of health insurance will prevent 3 million people from becoming uninsured due to steep premium hikes, protecting them from financial hardship, and saving the health care system from the perilous costs of uncompensated care. I was dismayed that Senator Warnock's amendment extending Medicaid expansion to 2.2 million people living in poverty in 12 states was not adopted by the Senate. Impoverished Americans with no access to affordable health care would have been able to see a doctor when they are sick, pregnant, or have other health needs. We must still close the Medicaid coverage gap for Americans who have a need for, and the right to, health care. Although it is not in this bill, I will continue to fight for this. The bill makes historic investments to combat climate change by putting the United States on a path to reduce emissions by 40% by 2030, investing $369 billion in clean energy and energy efficiency to lower household energy costs, and ensuring that lower-income households can benefit from these programs. The bill's clean energy and emission reduction programs attack the climate crisis at its source--electric utilities, cars, trucks, and methane emission producers--while ensuring that rural and disadvantaged communities share the benefits. The IRA provides direct consumer incentives to relieve the high costs of energy and decrease utility bills by encouraging purchases of energy efficient and clean-energy goods, with a significant portion of the funding going to lower-income households and disadvantaged communities. The bill includes $9 billion in consumer home energy rebate programs, focused on low-income consumers, to electrify home appliances and for energy efficient retrofits. The IRA provides 10 years of consumer tax credits to make homes energy efficient, using clean energy and making heat pumps, rooftop solar, community solar projects, electric HVAC, and efficient water heaters more affordable. The bill includes a $4,000 consumer tax credit for lower- and middle- income individuals to buy used clean-energy vehicles, and up to a $7,500 tax credit to buy new clean-energy vehicles. This will bring electric cars--and the fuel costs they save--within the reach of working families. Additionally, the bill establishes a $1 billion grant program to make affordable housing more energy efficient. The investments in this bill will reduce emissions in every sector of the economy, substantially reducing emissions from electricity generation, transportation, industrial manufacturing, buildings, and agriculture. Tax credits are provided for clean sources of electricity and energy storage, and roughly $30 billion in targeted grant and loan programs for states and electric utilities to accelerate the transition to clean electricity. The legislation includes tax credits and grants for clean fuels and clean commercial vehicles to reduce emissions from all parts of the transportation sector. The bill provides grants and tax credits to reduce emissions from industrial manufacturing processes, including almost $6 billion for a new Advanced Industrial Facilities Deployment Program to reduce emissions from the largest industrial emitters like chemical, steel and cement plants. To spur innovation, $27 billion is provided for a clean energy technology accelerator to aid deployment of technologies that reduce emissions, especially in disadvantaged communities. The IRA has $9 billion for Federal procurement of American-made clean products, including $3 billion for zero-emission Postal Service vehicles, to create a stable market for them. The Inflation Reduction Act includes over $60 billion for environmental justice priorities to drive investments into disadvantaged communities. The bill has $3 billion for Environmental and Climate Justice Block Grants that will invest in community-led projects in disadvantaged communities and community capacity building centers to address disproportionate environmental and public health harms related to pollution and climate change. The IRA creates Neighborhood Access and Equity Grants with $3 billion to aid neighborhood equity, safety, and affordable transportation access. This landmark program addresses a long legacy of ignoring environmental justice concerns in project decision-making. The grants aim to reconnect communities divided by infrastructure barriers, mitigate negative impacts of transit facilities or construction projects on disadvantaged or underserved communities, and support equitable transportation planning and community engagement activities. The bill provides another $3 billion for Grants to Reduce Air Pollution at Ports to support the purchase and installation of zero- emission equipment and technology at ports. The IRA also provides $1 billion for clean heavy-duty vehicles, such as school and transit buses and garbage trucks. There is $60 million for Diesel Emissions Reduction Act grants to address diesel emissions from goods movement facilities like airports and railyards, and from vehicles using those facilities. The IRA has $236 million for Air Pollution Monitoring that will particularly benefit disadvantaged communities exposed to areas with persistent air pollution. The bill includes $50 million to address Air Pollution at Schools by monitoring and reducing air pollution at public schools in low-income and disadvantaged communities. The bill provides $87 million for the Low Emissions Electricity Program to support low-income and disadvantaged communities, and offer technical assistance to industry, as well as state and local governments, as they work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental justice is also central to initiatives that aim to decarbonize the economy, such as the technology accelerator and consumer home energy rebate programs, that focus on disadvantaged and low-income communities. Additionally, many of the clean energy tax credits include either a bonus or set-aside structure to drive investments and economic development in disadvantaged communities. This bill funds energy reliability, cleaner energy, and historic investments in American clean energy manufacturing. It includes over $60 billion for clean energy manufacturing in the U.S. across the full supply chain of clean energy and transportation technologies. These manufacturing incentives will help alleviate inflation and reduce the risk of future price shocks by bringing down the cost of clean energy and clean vehicles and relieving supply chain bottlenecks. The IRA invests roughly $30 billion for production tax credits to accelerate U.S. manufacturing of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and critical minerals processing. The bill has a $10 billion investment tax credit to build clean technology manufacturing facilities, like facilities that make electric vehicles, wind turbines and solar panels. The bill also funds $500 million in the Defense Production Act for heat pumps and critical minerals processing. The bill has $2 billion in grants to retool auto manufacturing facilities to manufacture clean vehicles, ensuring that auto manufacturing jobs stay in the communities that rely on them. The IRA provides up to $20 billion in loans to build new clean vehicle manufacturing facilities across the country. To spur the next generation of energy technologies, the bill provides $2 billion for National Labs to accelerate breakthrough energy research. To afford these investments and reduce the deficit, the Inflation Reduction Act requires the wealthiest people and corporations to pay their fair share of taxes, without raising taxes on anyone making less than $400,000 each year. In fact, the non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation reported that, in addition to not increasing taxes on any family making $400,000 or less, taxes on those families would actually be reduced by the IRA. This would correct the longstanding injustice of hardworking American families paying their taxes on time while wealthy millionaires and billionaires avoid paying the taxes they owe to the federal government. By creating a more equitable tax system, this bill will ease the pressure of inflation and allow more Americans to participate productively in the economy. Americans overwhelmingly agree that corporations have paid too little for too long. Only in Washington would Republicans fight against cutting costs for low- and middle- income workers and their families in defense of wealthy corporations. To fairly and appropriately raise revenues, the bill includes major reforms, each of which are sound tax policies. The Inflation Reduction Act imposes a corporate alternative minimum tax on corporations that earn more than $1 billion in annual profit, but do not pay at least a 15 percent tax rate. This would apply to about 150 corporations that average nearly $9 billion in profit, but which paid effective tax rates of just 1.1 percent. The minimum tax will make sure they pay their fair share, and will raise approximately $222 billion. The bill will levy a 1 percent fee on stock buybacks by publicly- traded corporations to level the playing field. This reform to the tax code, which raises $74 billion, would put an end to favoring buybacks for rich shareholders and executives over investments in workers and innovation. The legislation will help prevent the wealthiest Americans from sheltering their nonbusiness income and avoiding taxes. By extending the limitation on excess business losses for two years, the bill would raise an additional $52 billion. This bill also gives the IRS resources to rebuild its antiquated systems to make the wealthy pay their taxes. By investing $80 billion over ten years for tax enforcement and compliance, the Congressional Budget Office estimates the IRS will collect $203 billion. Nearly 75 percent of Americans believe the IRS should conduct more tax audits of large corporations and millionaires. Recently, the IRS Commissioner emphasized that families making under $400,000 per year will not see increased audits. I was upset that the Senate did not close the carried interest loophole, which lets investment fund managers pay lower taxes on their earnings than wage earners pay. Billionaires scored a win worth billions as others struggle to make ends meet. Yet, I am pleased that the bill levels the playing field with other taxes. The Inflation Reduction Act is excellent legislation that will be a great leap forward for the American people, including for my constituents in the 18th Congressional District of Texas.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 263, the ``Big Cat Public Safety Act'' which would prohibit the private possession, breeding, and public exploitation of lions, tigers, leopards, and other large cats. H.R. 263 amends the animal rights protections outlined in the ``Lacey Act'' and the ``Captive Wildlife Safety Act'' by prohibiting the import and shipment of big cats in the U.S., preventing public contact with big cats outside of academic and research institutions, and halting the illegal breeding of cubs by private owners. I have long been an advocate for protecting big cats. In the 114th Congress, I proudly sponsored the ``Cecil the Lion Endangered and Threatened Species Act of 2015'' which prohibited the importation of any endangered animal killed via trophy hunting, including African lions, amur leopards, and other big cat species. Today I will continue to fight for the wellbeing of these animals by urging Congress to pass this equally important piece of legislation-- H.R. 263. It is estimated that there are anywhere between 10,000 and 20,000 big cats living in private captivity within the U.S. In fact, the Humane Society has been quoted saying that there are more tigers in captivity in Texas alone, than there are in the wild in the entire world; These noble animals often live in terrible conditions and are at risk of abuse and neglect at the hands of inexperienced and untrained handlers. Many big cats are used as side show attractions for private roadside zoos that masquerade as rescue sanctuaries. Under the guise of wildlife conservation, private animal collectors manipulate the public into paying money and offering donations for the upkeep of their big cats. While private owners profit off the animals, the living conditions of the lions, tigers, leopards, and other animals rarely improve. Under H.R. 263, private owners would be allowed to retain their current animals--with restriction. This legislation would mandate that all privately owned big cats be registered to ensure that first responders and animal control officers are aware of the presence of big cats within their communities. This allows police to be prepared in the event of an animal attack or escape. In 2021 a 175-pound tiger was famously caught on film stalking an off-duty police officer in Houston. Videos show the officer aiming a pistol at the tiger as the animal continued to prowl closer. It took law enforcement officials more than a week to track down and arrest the wild animal's owner. Had this animal been registered to the city, the owner would have been identified and the situation would have been more rapidly resolved. Fortunately, in that instance neither city residents nor the tiger were harmed. However, that is not always the case with captive big cats. Since 1990, more than 400 dangerous incidents involving big cats have occurred across the country. Four children and 16 adults have lost their lives. Hundreds more have been mauled or mutilated. Big cats cannot be domesticated. They are not pets whose ancestors have lived alongside humans for thousands of years. They are not for human amusement. Regardless of how much human contact these animals experience, big cats will always maintain their natural instinct to hunt and attack. They are, and always will be, wild animals. While large menageries of adult tigers and leopards attract tourists to private zoos, baby cats are the most lucrative resource for private animal collectors. Unregulated zoos receive the majority of their income through the despicable practice of ``cub-petting.'' Cub petting requires that baby lions, tigers, and other cats be ripped from their mothers just hours after birth so that they can be handled and photographed by paying tourists. Because visitors want to see the smallest and youngest cubs, zoos only put cubs on display until they are about 8 to 12 weeks old. At that point, the cubs become financial and safety liabilities. Once they are too big to be used for cub petting some are killed, distributed on the black market for animal parts, or sold for pets. The ``Big Cat Public Safety Act'' would put a stop to this barbaric and inhumane practice by prohibiting the accidental and intentional breeding of new cubs. H.R. 263 would allow big cat breeding only by wildlife sanctuaries, veterinarians, universities, and zoos that have qualified and trained staff acting within the best interest of animals and ecological conservation. The bill would also require that any public observation of big cats be at a distance of 15 feet, thus preventing the continued practice of cub-petting and big cat photo ops. By implementing these reforms, Congress can continue to support the protection of endangered species while preventing the exploitation and abuse of big cats in America. I have consistently called for the development of pragmatic, environmentally friendly, and economically efficient strategies for addressing and resolving environmental and animal rights crises. This bill is a viable solution to the plight of big cats in American captivity. The ``Big Cat Public Safety Act'' is an invaluable step towards preventing animal abuse and threats to public safety in the United States. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I encourage my constituents to steer clear of any and all private big cat zoos or collections. There are ways to honor and observe these magnificent animals while ensuring they receive the respect and care they deserve.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Chair, I thank the distinguished gentleman from Colorado for yielding, and I thank this body for recognizing the cruciality of where we are today as it relates to fires. I know the gentleman's territory, but many people might not know that Texas also is impacted by wildfires. So, I rise in strong support for H.R. 5118, the Wildfire Response and Drought Resiliency Act for many reasons. One, I support my firefighters. As anyone has seen firefighters who fight these fires being interviewed, they are in the midst of the fire. As anyone has heard the families that look and say there is nothing here; but for firefighters, I would not be here. So Houston is no stranger to these weather conditions. Fifty-one trillion gallons of water fell from Hurricane Harvey, yet wildfires are another type of extreme weather that imperils our community, and it is attributable to climate change, as Hurricane Harvey was. Wildfires are often unplanned fires, which burn in a natural area such as a forest. Along with the destruction and loss of forests caused by blazes, there are immediate and long-term environmental impacts that dramatically affect vital resources. Expanded areas of high-severity fire can impact tree regeneration, soil erosion, and water quality, and, yes, the quality of life. It can cause major destruction of property and loss of life, and this legislation is a recognition of attempting to address this question and address it now.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Chair, this bill would boost pay and benefits for firefighters, help the U.S. Forest Service fill gaps in fire management staff, expand forest management projects, and reduce hazardous fuels. I ask my colleagues to support the underlying bill. Madam Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 5118, also known as the Wildfire Response and Drought Resiliency Act. Climate change is the most important existential challenge of our lifetime. It is not simply an issue, but a threat with credible and uncompromising dangers to our world. Climate change degrades living conditions, human security, and our government's ability to meet the basic needs of their populations. For too many years, we have heard warnings from scientists regarding the danger to people if nothing is done to reverse the amounts of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. One of the most devastating consequences of climate change is the frequency and intensity of extreme weather disasters. Houston is no stranger to these intense weather incidents. On August 25, 2017, Hurricane Harvey, a Category 4 storm hit Texas, causing $125 billion in damages and affecting over 13 million people from Texas through Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Climatologists agree that global warming contributed to Hurricane Harvey's impact. Studies found the amount of rainfall was between 15 to 38 percent higher because of global warming. Rising sea levels as a result of climate change also made flooding more likely near Gulf Coast cities. The sea levels around Houston were six inches higher than 20 years ago. This is partly because warmer global temperatures have been melting the ice caps in Antarctica. They have been shrinking at 1.6 meters per year, compared to 3.8 centimeters annually before 1992. Global warming also stalled weather patterns in the region. That allowed Harvey to hover over Houston instead of moving back out into the ocean. Wildfires are another type of extreme weather event that imperils many regions of the country. Wildfires are often unplanned fires which burn in a natural area such as a forest, grassland or prairie. They have devastating consequences on a region by decimating an environment, while weakening a community's health and economy. Along with the destruction and loss of forest caused by blazes, there are immediate and long-term environmental impacts that dramatically affect vital resources. Expanded areas of high-severity fire can impact tree regeneration, soil erosion, and water quality. Wildfires can affect the physical, chemical, and biological quality of streams, rivers, lakes and reservoirs. These changes are noticeable for years and even decades after a fire. The smoke from wildfires can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation and in more severe cases, reduced lung function, bronchitis, and an exacerbation of asthma and heart failure. Air pollution can spread up to thousands of miles away, not just in the surrounding region. Property loss and damage is another consequence of wildfires. In 2020 alone, fires in the U.S. caused $21.9 billion in property damage. What's more, eight of the 10 costliest wildfires ever in the U.S. have taken place in the past five years. Climate change exacerbates these conditions. Long periods of record high temperatures as a result of climate change intensify droughts that contribute to dry conditions and drive wildfires, which, in turn, reinforce the cycle of environmental peril. Wildfire risk depends on a number of factors such as temperature, soil moisture, and the presence of trees, shrubs, and other potential fuel. All these factors have strong direct or indirect ties to climate variability and climate change. Climate change enhances the drying of organic matter in forests (the material that burns and spreads wildfire) and has doubled the number of large fires between 1984 and 2015 in the western United States. The stress that extreme weather is placing on the nation cannot be understated. H.R. 5118 would boost pay and benefits for firefighters, help the U.S. Forest Service fill gaps in fire management staff, and expand forest management projects to reduce hazardous fuels. The provisions and purpose of this bill are not new. Historically, Congress has made numerous investments to fight drought, wildfire and the climate crisis. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, passed in November 2021, dedicated $7.81 billion under Title VIII to the DOI and the Forest Service to reduce wildfire risk and support ecosystem restoration. In total, the bill allotted $3.369 billion aimed at reducing wildfire risks. This amount was allocated to supporting firefighters, research dedicated to risk mapping, satellite wildfire detection, etc. The measure would provide $1.6 billion in annual spending on firefighter salaries and expenses at the Forest Service, and just under $2.4 billion annually for salaries and expenses for forest stewardship and management in the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. Forest management projects, which mainly involve reducing hazardous fuels such as dead trees, are part of the bill, authorizing $500 million annually for that purpose. The Department of Agriculture would select up to 20 large, landscape-scale restoration projects over five years. H.R. 5118 represents a continuation of bipartisan efforts to support the reduction of wildfire risk. It is essential in order to protect communities from the devastating consequences of wildfires and to actively fight against the impending climate crisis. The provisions within H.R. 5118 are essential to the protection of our ecosystems and to the brave first responders who are tasked with wildfire recovery efforts. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5118. I include in the Record ``North Texas wildfire continues to grow amid high heat'' and ``Bottle-magnified sunlight ignited paper and started a 500-acre Texas wildfire, officials say.'' [From ABC News, July 19, 2022)] North Texas Wildfire Continues To Grow Amid High Heat Graford, Texas.--A North Texas wildfire continued to grow Tuesday amid sweltering temperatures and dry conditions after burning at least a dozen structures, officials said. The Chalk Mountain Fire about 50 miles (80 kilometers) southwest of Fort Worth was the largest active Texas wildfire as of Tuesday afternoon after blackening 6,000 acres (2,400 hectares), an increase from 4,000 acres (1,600 hectares) Tuesday morning, the Texas A&M Forest Service said. The fire, which began Monday afternoon, was just 10% contained, and crews using bulldozers were digging containment lines while fire trucks and aircraft worked to extinguish the flames, the Forest Service said. Late Tuesday afternoon, Hood County Judge Ron Massingill ordered the mandatory evacuation of a rural area south of Tolar, about 45 miles (72 kilometers) southwest of Fort Worth. It was not yet clear how many, if any, of the 12 structures lost as of Tuesday afternoon were residences or businesses, Forest Service spokeswoman Mary Leathers said. Meanwhile, crews continued to battle a wildfire that has burned at least 10 structures, five of them homes, around a lake in North Texas, authorities said. The fire at Possum Kingdom Lake about 70 miles (113 kilometers) west of Fort Worth, which began Monday afternoon, had burned about 500 acres (202 hectares) and was 10% contained Tuesday, Forest Service spokesman Adam Turner said. Firefighting crews were working around the clock, focusing on protecting threatened homes in resort subdivisions along the lake's western shore. The area remained under a voluntary evacuation notice, the Forest Service said. No injuries have been reported from the fires, and their causes were under investigation. A combination of near- record- and record-high temperatures approaching 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius) combined with breezes gusting as high as 30 mph (40-50 kph) and drought conditions leave the region ripe for fire, the forest service said. The National Weather Service has issued a red flag fire warning for northern and central Texas and western and eastern Oklahoma for Tuesday. ``We are experiencing dry fuels to a level that we haven't seen in the past 10 years,'' Turner said. ``Any spark that lands in tall grass or even lands in some short grass right now is liable to spark.'' Wildfires and intense heat in Texas and some other parts of the United States come as unusually hot, dry weather has gripped large swaths of Europe since last week, triggering wildfires from Portugal to the Balkans and leading to hundreds of heat-related deaths.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. We can see the lengths the Democrats have gone to to simply try to save lives. With John Lewis we sat on the floor of the House, not regarding what would happen to us personally after Parkland and literally said you have got to do something. As John Lewis said: ``Never give up, never give in, never give out,'' the moral authority of this Congress. We failed because my friends on the other side of the aisle just could not see the carnage and bloodshed that happened to Parkland or Sandy Hook and elsewhere. Now we have in the backdrop El Paso. We have Uvalde. And I repeat myself, going there days after that tragedy and literally hugging crying 9-year-olds who should be on the playground who are crying because of their loss and deceased friends. The story that is so powerful, two of them, one that bled to death, and one that smeared themselves with blood to live. Do we now stand in the way of stopping carnage and bloodshed? And my good friend that I have done a lot of things with, M4s, M16s are weapons are war; if I have the correct numbers, and I believe I do. You can pontificate about that, but, frankly, the language is ``assault-style weapons.'' That is what it is. And assault-style weapons still do not belong in civilians' hands because the munitions that are used in war, when soldiers can't even bring their weapons of war home when they are off duty or coming home to see family members or traveling as a civilian, it is because they are killers. And that is what killed those children in Parkland, Highland. That is what killed them in Uvalde, in Buffalo. That is what killed these people in El Paso, and in the hands in some instances of white supremacists. Let me be perfectly clear, as I thank Mr. Cicilline for this legislation, he prohibits that possession. Many of them are grandfathered in. I wish somebody would read the bill. These are weapons already grandfathered in. Don't frighten the American people. What is most frightening are the parents who are outside these doors.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, what is really frightening is that parents who are outside these doors are asking the question: What are we doing? I would say the families in Buffalo, where the theme was replacement theory, or these little babies, where is your heart in a reasonable bill that prohibits the sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and large-capacity ammunition feeding devices subject to grandfathering provisions but, in actuality, allows the possession of any semiautomatic assault weapon lawfully possessed on the date of enactment? How much fairer can we get? I only ask my colleagues to stop pontificating to us like we know less than you when it comes, as a civilian, that there are weapons of war that our military has, that there are assault-style weapons that are in the hands of citizens on the streets of this country, and that they adapt the same munitions. The individual in Uvalde had 350 pounds. Madam Speaker, let us vote for the rule and the underlying bill.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I think that we will spend most of our time here today where facts will be told and then rhetorical conversations will be told, as well. Fact: The Constitution, in the Second Amendment, does not prohibit the ban on assault weapons. Fact: H.R. 1808, led by Mr. Cicilline, allows gun owners to hold their guns. This deals with the transfer of guns. Fact: As we can see, the lives of our children are lost through carnage, bloodshed, and murder--fact--by the hands of an AR-15, an assault-style weapon. Fact: Our fellow citizens are killed by an AR-15, -14, an assault- style weapon. Fact: Mass carnage is not done by a knife, a BB gun. It is not done by throwing a water bomb or words. It is not done by taking a bus and running over citizens. It is done by assault-style weapons. So, I rise today to support H.R. 1808 because I am tired of a fact of doing nothing. Mayor Bowser has a right to complain about Governor Abbott generating individuals unfairly, unjustly, and wrongly to another jurisdiction. But the fact is that these weapons have killed. So, without any concern, we are now offering facts. Anyone that suggests that we are taking guns from good gun owners, we are not. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to include in the Record three articles from The Washington Post, CBS News, and KXAN. Uvalde Parents, Highland Park Survivors Demand Assault Weapons Ban (By Ellie Silverman) Kimberly Rubio keeps trying to picture the classroom through her 10-year-old daughter Lexi's eyes, haunted by the different ways that May day could have ended. What side of the room did Lexi run toward with her classmates, huddling and fearing for their lives? What if Rubio had taken her daughter home earlier after an award ceremony that day? What if the outside door locked properly? What if police had immediately engaged the suspected gunman? But the one question that lawmakers should ask themselves every morning and night, she posed, was: ``What if the gunman never had access to an assault weapon?'' ``We are no longer asking for change,'' Rubio, 33, said to a cheering crowd of about 200 people at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday. ``We are demanding it.'' Rubio was one of several people who spoke at a rally about the ways gun violence had irreparably harmed their lives and demanded a federal ban on assault weapons. Those gathered wore bright orange shirts and included community members from Highland Park, Ill., where a gunman killed seven adults and injured dozens more during a Fourth of July parade, and parents of children who were among the 21 people killed in May at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Tex. Rubio's daughter Alexandria Aniyah Rubio, known as Lexi, was one of the children killed. Many openly grieved at the rally, crying during Rubio's remarks. A mother at the Highland Park parade recounted how she fled, holding her 1-year-old daughter in her arms as she was grazed by a bullet. Parents shared the terrifying questions they're hearing from their young children who survived shootings. And speaker after speaker demanded more sweeping federal action to curb the scourge of gun violence. Last month, President Biden signed a bipartisan gun-control bill into law, the most significant of its kind in three decades. It expands criminal background checks for some gun buyers, bars a larger group of domestic-violence offenders from purchasing firearms, and funds programs that would allow authorities to seize guns from troubled individuals. However, gun control advocates, and Biden himself, have noted that the legislation does not include everything they hoped for. During an event on the White House's South Lawn on Monday billed as ``commemorating the historic achievement of the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act,'' the father of a 17-year-old boy killed in the 2018 massacre at a high school in Parkland, Fla., heckled the president. demanding more action to curb gun violence. Biden renewed calls for a federal ban on assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines. On Wednesday, mothers continued to step up to the lectern near the grassy area by 1st and C streets NE and speak about their children, friends and relatives who died of gun violence and the ways survivors grapple with anxiety attacks, fear and guilt. Democratic lawmakers from Illinois, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth; Rep. Brad Schneider, whose district includes Highland Park; and Rep. Jan Schakowsky, also spoke at the rally before the crowd marched toward the Capitol. Nubia Hogan, 45, stood among the crowd and held a poster with a photo of her father, Eduardo Uvaldo. Uvaldo was at the July Fourth parade with Hogan and their relatives when gunfire rained on the crowd. The parade was a family tradition and Uvaldo's favorite holiday, she said. Hogan said she thought about how when gunfire erupted from a nearby rooftop, she froze. Her son, Brian Hogan, 13, yelled to run and the family tried to flee. A bullet hit Brian in the arm and fragments hit Nubia Hogan's mother, too. Uvaldo was also struck and was rushed to the hospital, where he died two days later. ``I get anxiety really bad. I get nightmares, waking up to hearing `boom boom' like the shots,'' said Nubia Hogan, of Waukegan, Ill. ``These types of guns should not be out there for civilians. These are for the military and for police.'' She plans to continue with activism around this issue, joining the many other people who have channeled their grief into advocacy for change. Thousands of people gathered earlier this summer on the National Mall to join the rally staged by March for Our Lives, the organization founded by student survivors of the mass shooting in Parkland, where a gunman killed 17 people. Still, more than 115,000 students have been exposed to gun violence on K-12 campuses during regular hours since the Parkland massacre, according to a Washington Post database. Brett Cross, 39, stood toward the back of the crowd and said he thought about his nephew, 10-year-old Uziyah Garcia, and how the ``system'' didn't protect his family and so many others. The day of the shooting in Uvalde, his wife raced over to the school where Cross said police pushed and blocked parents from entering the building to save their children. In the first classroom the gunman entered, Cross said, was his nephew, ``Uzi,'' the young boy who was fast, always racing people, and who aspired to make music, be a YouTuber and one day become a police officer to help people. ``Those same cops that he looked up to failed him and his classmates,'' Cross said. His 10-year-old son and Uzi shared a room together but now, his son doesn't want to be in there. Cross bought a cot and placed it next to his bed, where the two hold hands before falling asleep. ``He said he wanted to go to school that day so that he could have done something,'' Cross said. ``He wants to know why an 18-year-old kid can go buy these weapons, why it took his brother from him.''

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote for H.R. 1808. That is a fact. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1808, the ``Assault Weapons Ban of 2022,'' that would prohibit the sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession of semiautomatic assault weapons and large capacity ammunition feeding devices. Whether we call them assault weapons or AR-15 style weapons, we all know that we are talking about civilian versions of firearms created for the military. Day after day, mass shooting after mass shooting, we are confronted with the carnage that is inflicted on the human body when these weapons of war are used against elementary-aged children, teachers, parade- goers, high school students, worshippers, shoppers, and on and on. In America, gun violence is the leading cause of death among children while mass shootings occur ever increasingly each year. It is no secret that I am adamantly opposed to assault weapons and large capacity magazines--implements designed for war. Neither belong in our communities. Since the time I first joined my colleagues in the House in 2003 to extend the Assault Weapons Ban of 1994, we have seen innumerable acts of violence and carnage perpetrated using assault weapons and large capacity magazines. I have hugged far too many grieving spouses and friends, wiped away the tears of too many loved ones left behind to pick up the pieces, and offered condolences to countless communities across the country-- including my own. There is no debating that when paired together, large capacity magazines and assault weapons perform as they were designed--killing more people quickly and efficiently. We all know that the parents in Uvalde were asked to provide DNA swabs to identify their murdered children because they were unrecognizable. I am tired of seeing parents bury their children--tired of promising that we in Congress will remove these military-style weapons from our communities--then, returning and doing nothing. H.R. 1808 will help gradually reduce the number of assault weapons and large capacity magazines available--keeping them out of the hands of criminals--while reducing the number of lives lost to gun violence, and making us all safer, the bill still recognizes that many Americans already own assault weapons and large capacity magazines and provides ways in which they can keep their firearms, transfer them following a background check. The evidence is clear. Bans work. During the 1994 federal assault weapons ban was in effect, mass shooting fatalities were 70 percent less likely to occur. And, when the large capacity ammunition feeding device ban was in place, there were 77 percent fewer injuries from guns. In the past decade, gun makers have flooded the market with assault weapons, making over $1 billion in sales, but at a tragic cost to the rest of us. From 2000 to 2004, the average number of people killed from active shooter incidents per year was 22. But from 2005 to 2021, the average number of people killed from active shooter incidents was 68.7. We know the common denominator here--assault weapons and large capacity magazines--and H.R. 1808 is the solution. It is time to act. H.R. 1808 is a necessary measure that will protect Americans and promote public safety. We should all be tired of bracing ourselves for the next attack on another unsuspecting gathering of Americans going about their daily lives or identifying the nearest exits as we sit and try to enjoy time with our loved ones or hearing children tell us about the active shooter drills they participate in at school or camp. I thank Representative David Cicilline for his leadership on this important measure. Examples of mass shootings involving assault weapons and/or large capacity magazines Uvalde, Texas--AR-15-style weapon killed 19 children; 2 teachers Buffalo, New York--AR-15-style rifle killed 10 shoppers Boulder, Colorado--Ruger AR-556 semi-automatic killed 10 people including a police officer Dayton, Ohio--AR-15-style weapon equipped with a 100-round ammunition magazine to kill nine people and injure over 25 others in less than 30 seconds at a local bar El Paso, Texas--AK-47-style weapon killed 22 at a Walmart. Gilroy, Calif.--AK-47-style weapon wounded 17 and killed three including a 13-year-old girl and 6-year-old Thousand Oaks, Calif.--Glock 21 .45-caliber pistol and several high- capacity ammunition magazines killed 12. Pittsburgh, Pa.--AR-15-style weapon killed 11 worshipers. The deadliest anti-Semitic attack committed against the Jewish community in America. Parkland, Fla.--M&P15 AR-15 military style rifle; killed 17 students and educators. Sutherland Springs, Texas--Ruger AR-556 Rifle; killed 26 churchgoers. Las Vegas, Nev.--Shooter with more than 20 assault style weapons and 12 bump-fire stocks killed 58 people and wounded over 500 others. Orlando, Fla.--Sig Sauer MCX assault rifle killed 49 and wounded 58. The deadliest incident of violence against LGBT people in our nation's history. Newtown, Conn.--Bushmaster semiautomatic assault killed 26 people including 20 children. Aurora, Colo.--Smith & Wesson M&P15 semiautomatic assault-style rifle with a 100-round ammunition drum and other firearms killed 12 people and injured 58.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Sadly, though, this is called the CHIPS and Science Act, it left out the calculation of math for my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. America is applauding. For once they will not be stopped and stymied by a supply chain that says: no technology, no cars, stay forever without wheels when you have a driving business. This bill is expected to create 100,000 jobs. I am excited, in particular, about the addition of NASA's reauthorization and to specifically note that NASA's Johnson Space Center will be doing the Orion program funded, Gateway program funded, Extravehicular Activity in Human Surface Mobility funded. Orion, Gateway and EHP funded. These are individual programs that we funded for one of the most prominent centers there. In addition, we are going to move to manufacturing chips in this Nation, including Houston. The Democratic Republic of the Congo has precious metals. Where do they want to send them? To the United States of America. They want us to produce. They want us to be able to transport. Out of this bill with the amazing amount of research coming forward in science it is going to be a testimony. I want to pay tribute to Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, the chairwoman who guided this with the kind of calm and expertise that has brought us to this point. Texas is proud, the Nation is proud, and 100,000 jobs and over $3 billion that will be provided in energy alone, $10.9 billion for the Office of Science, $7.5 billion for FY22, a 6 percent annual increase. This is a jobs bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 4346, the CHIPS and Science Act, which comes as a result of bipartisan bicameral work following the passage of the Competes Act and the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. CHIPS' authorization was part of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. Which authorized the Department of Commerce (DOC), Department of Defense (DoD), and Department of State (DOS) to engage in activities to develop onshore domestic manufacturing of semiconductors critical to U.S. competitiveness and national security. This bill is expected to create nearly 100,000 new American jobs. And provisions in the Bill are reflecting my legislation. I am proud to say that many of those jobs would be housed in Texas. Currently, more than 30,000 Texans work in the manufacturing of semiconductor chips. In fact, for the last 11 years, my state has been the country's number one top exporter of this product. There are opportunities in addressing the necessity of finding and refining of rare earth-critical mineral elements that are needed to manufacture technology in every aspect of the economy. I will be hosting a major energy discussion and a series of meetings in September and October to focus on closing the gap between U.S. demand for these materials and the supply available to us in the global marketplace. I believe that our nation's independence and competitiveness is on the line if we do not solve this problem. On September 12, 1962, President Kennedy gave a speech at Rice University that outlined the task he was given to the nation's best and brightest scientists by saying: ``We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things not because they are easy, but because they are hard. Because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills because that challenge is one that we're willing to accept. One we are unwilling to postpone.'' Our nation has never measured itself by the progress of other nations, but by the boundlessness of our imagination that we work to make real. Before the race to the moon, the United States had conquered other science, engineering, and technological challenges like the building of the Panama Canal and human flight. We know the fruit of this labor is greater knowledge, innovations, the unlocking of new knowledge, and the dispelling or confirmation of scientific proofs. As a member of the Bipartisan Space and Aeronautics Caucus, I am in support of the NASA Authorization that is included in this bill. I am a sponsor H.R. 5260, the Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021, a bill establishing programs and policies pertaining to human presence in space. This bill would establish a program to develop next-generation space suits and associated technologies, establish an outpost in orbit around the Moon as described in this bill, and submit a plan for achieving a power supply on the Moon. The bill declares that it is U.S. policy to continuously maintain the capability for a continuous human presence in low-Earth orbit through and beyond the useful life of the International Space Station (ISS) and that such capability shall maintain U.S. global leadership and relations with partners and allies, contribute to the general welfare of the United States, and leverage commercial capabilities to promote affordability so as not to preclude a robust portfolio of other human space exploration activities. I am also a cosponsor of H.R. 869, the Research Investment to Spark the Economy Act of 2021 or the RISE Act of 2021, a bill that authorizes the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, the Interior, Health and Human Services, and Transportation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), National Science Foundation, and Environmental Protection Agency to provide support for research regarding COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) or research disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill provides supplemental funding to extend the duration of a grant to a research institution, national laboratory, or individual that was awarded prior to the enactment of this bill, or to expand the purposes of such a grant as specified; issue awards to research the effects of the current pandemic and potential future pandemics; and provide flexibility on awards to account for facility closures or other limitations during the COVID-19 public health emergency. H.R. 4346, the CHIPS and Science Act bill before us today, includes National Aeronautics and Space Administration authorization for the: Artemis Moon Program; Moon-to-Mars Exploration Campaign, including the Artemis program to return America to the Moon; Maintenance of the International Space Station. Extension of authorization for the International Space Station through 2030 and establishes priorities for research, as required to bring Americans to Mars; Extend NASA Enhanced Use Lease Authority. Enables NASA to lease underutilized; Prioritization through 2032, and to use lease revenues to address facility maintenance while reducing taxpayer costs; goal of including Earth science observations and the search for life beyond Earth; Advancement of U.S. Aeronautics Leadership Enhancement of NASA Technology, Infrastructure, and Workforce; and Focused attention that ensures Planetary Defense against meteors and large asteroids. I have long held an intense interest in the Nation's premier space exploration agency, first as a member of the House Science Committee and now as a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. From space exploration to climate change the work of Congress is needed now more than ever before. I have for several Congresses offered an amendment to the NDAA to provide Congress with a report on the issue of space debris, which jeopardizes human space exploration. These objects are a product of earlier space exploration when there were only a few nations capable of low earth orbit space flight. Today, public-private partnerships and collaboration is bringing the commercial sector into space exploration. The space debris amendment brings valuable insight into the challenges, dangers, and opportunities present by addressing space debris moving over 17,000 miles an hour and the real changes of debris disabling or damaging manmade space exploration or development efforts. President Kennedy knew what was on the line if our nation did not dominate the space race. Because he understood what was at stake he set the nation's sights on people walking on the surface of the moon, and to safely return home required technology, materials, metals, food preservation, clothing, and instruments that had not been invented at the time of his speech this was a monumental challenge that captivated and motivated Americans--All Americans to find within themselves the talent, courage, and fortitude needed to make his words our nation's greatest scientific accomplishment. He said his challenge was an act of faith and vision because no one know what would come from the effort of accomplishing the challenge of conquering space. The speech at Rice University is located in the city of Houston because of the concentration of engineering, researchers, and academic institutions doing cutting-edge work in the energy sector of the economy. First established as the Manned Spacecraft Center (MSC) in 1961, it was later named the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC) in honor of the late President. The JSC is responsible for the design, development, and operation of human space flight. For more than four decades, JSC has been the world leader in human space flight operations for NASA. The critical thing to understand about what JSC means to human space flight is to understand the importance of a critical mass of experts that are working collaboratively from the training of astronauts to all aspects of the support during missions. The Center's famed Mission Control Center, or MCC, has been the operational hub of every American human space mission for over 40 years since Gemini IV. The MCC manages all activity onboard the space station and directs all space shuttle missions, including station assembly flights and Hubble Space Telescope servicing. Construction of the control center began in late 1962. In addition to conducting mission simulations and operations with flight controllers, space was allocated for key NASA engineering and scientific personnel along with representatives of the major contractors to support each mission. This increased presence strengthened the problem-solving capabilities of the MCC team. Today, JCS is comprised of a complex of 100 buildings constructed on 1,620 acres that is known as Space City. Houston is where the Johnson Space Center was born and remains to this day--a place of boundless imagination in the pursuit of new horizons in space exploration. There are approximately 3,200 civil servants, including 110 astronauts, employed at Johnson Space Center, and a contract workforce of over 15,000 are the people who prepare people for space missions. This bill is a matter of national pride, national economic innovation, and most importantly, national security. I want to note for Congress and the nation that the JSC with continuing to serve a vital role in the next chapter of space exploration for our nation. Several essential NASA programs are authorized and fully funded separately under this authorization bill. The bill provides funding for each of the essential tasks that NASA has for the JSC: the Orion Gateway Program is funded separately, Extravehicular Activity is funded separately, and Human Surface Mobility (EHP) Program is funded separately. The authorization language in this bill makes clear that the Orion Gateway Program, Extravehicular Activity, and Human Surface Mobility (EHP) Program are assigned to the Johnson Space Center. Language in this bill also provides clarity that all new lunar and Mars samples are under the purview of the JSC. This is a wise decision given that the JSC maintains over 5 decades of experience and expertise in the stewardship and curation of all current collections of NASA-held Astro-materials. All U.S. government or U.S. government contracted services involving extraterrestrial material or Astro-materials such as, but not limited to rocks, dust, minerals, meteorites, regolith, ices, organic matter, gasses, and atoms, and including samples collected in space, on other solar system bodies, and on earth will be curated and managed by Johnson Space Center. NASA's Johnson Space Center shall curate and manage all NASA-held Astro-material sample collections, including providing loans of Astro- material specimens, review of the proposed use, approval of research investigations, education, and public display. These are NASA Johnson Space Center Human Exploration Programs that are a part of Moon to Mars or Artemis, all funded separately in this bill. They are: Orion Program; Gateway Program--Referred to in the bill as ``an outpost in orbit around the moon''; Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility (EHP) Program--in the bill ``Spacesuits'' are called out and state any other elements needed to meet the requirement of the Moon to Mars Program; and Orion, Gateway, and EHP (suits and Mobile systems, rovers), all are critical Programs. Just as the moon project was a massive endeavor that would touch nearly every aspect of our nation's scientific community and efforts so will the work outlined by this legislation. The CHIPS Act would invest $52 billion in domestic semiconductor chip manufacturing, and various vital science initiatives to return the United States to its role as the preeminent leader in science and modernization. These initiatives include efforts to expand diversity and equity in STEM fields by combatting sexual harassment in science workplaces, investing in minority-serving institutions, and expanding fellowship and scholarship opportunities for women in STEM. It would also focus on scientific initiatives for biological and environmental research that would accelerate the growth of clean energy commercialization and development across the country. Everything from helium conservation to nuclear physics, to biological threat preparedness, is included in this bill. Additionally, the CHIPS and Science Act are authorizations for incredibly important innovations happening at NASA. It would authorize the Artemis Moon Program to work towards the goal of returning American astronauts to the moon, including sending the first woman and person of color. In addition to resuming goals of lunar landings, the CHIPS and Science Act would prioritize the research necessary to continue the Orion program and bring Americans to Mars. Several essential NASA programs are authorized and fully funded separately under this authorization bill. The Orion Program gateway program is funded separately; Extravehicular Activity is funded separately and Human Surface Mobility (EHP) Program is funded separately. The authorization language in this bill makes clear that the Orion Gateway Program, Extravehicular Activity, and Human Surface Mobility (EHP) Program are assigned to the Johnson Space Center. Language in this bill also provides clarification that all new lunar and Mars samples are the responsibility of the Johnson Space Center. The other priority I believe should have been included in this bill is a clarification that NASA's Johnson Space Center with over 5 decades of experience and expertise in the stewardship and curation of all current collections of NASA-held Astro-materials should continue in this role for the materials that will be brought back from the moon and Mars to earth for study. Further, it would have served the mission to make sure that all U.S. government or U.S. government contracted services involving extraterrestrial material or Astro-materials such as but not limited to rocks, dust, minerals, meteorites, regolith, ices, organic matter, gasses, and atoms and including samples collected in space, on other solar systems bodies and earth should be curated and managed by Johnson Space Center. NASA's Johnson Space Center should be charged with the management of all NASA-held Astro-material sample collections, including providing loans of Astro-material specimens, review of the proposed use, approval of research investigations, education, and public display. I will support the bill, and pledge to continue to work with my colleagues in the House and Members of the Senate to make sure that the JSC's role in the next chapter of our nation's space exploration includes management of materials returned to earth for study. In addition to its many improvements to STEM workforce growth and scientific research and development, this bill has a particular focus on America's need for a robust push in semiconductor chip manufacturing. Much of the funding in H.R. 4346 would be dedicated to building the capacity of the American semiconductor chip industry. This bill would set aside resources designed to incentivize the construction of potentially 7 to 10 domestic semiconductor fabrication plants. These plants would be responsible for manufacturing the core of all our modern electronics. Cars, cell phones, air conditioning units, microwave ovens, medical tools, and laptops all rely on semiconductor chips to transport, connect, feed, and support the American public. The CHIPS Act would ensure that American consumers retain access to these products during times of international instability. The United States' ability to manufacture semiconductor chips has been on a steady decline for decades. In 1990, the U.S. met roughly 40 percent of the world's semiconductor chip capacity. In 2020, that fell to just 12 percent. East Asian countries like China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan are now home to nearly 80 percent of global chip fabrication. Some of America's largest tech firms, including Google, Apple, and Amazon, rely on a single Taiwanese manufacturer, TSMC, for nearly 90 percent of their chip production. I have long advanced that chip manufacturing should be domestic because of the critical importance to telecommunication, medical, transportation, national defense, industrial control systems, and financial systems. The COVID-19 pandemic made evident the limitations of domestic manufacturing capacity in the United States and vulnerabilities in global supply chains. During the pandemic, our healthcare centers, schools, and other vital industries struggled to import the technological goods they needed to battle the virus, educate our children, and keep our economy running. Thousands of American people died in hospital beds while hospitals struggled to obtain additional ventilators, oxygen monitors and other necessary medical equipment--medical equipment that rely on semiconductor chips to work. Delays in supply chains and manufacturing capabilities undoubtedly wasted time and cost countless lives. This cannot happen again. The 21st-century world is only able to stay upright through a careful scaffolding of electronic and computer products. There are some products that we must maintain the ability to produce upon demand to meet domestic need. With Russia at war with Ukraine and an uncertain future for Chinese and Taiwanese relations, it is more imperative than ever that the manufacturing of semiconductor chips returns to American soil, American businesses, and American control. With the passage of the CHIPS Act, the United States would rise again to its status as a world leader in the manufacturing of semiconductor chips. Doing so is an economic and national security necessity. For years, the United States has neglected to invest in semiconductor manufacturing. Meanwhile, China has invested $150 billion to build its domestic capacity. If we do not invest in the future of American innovation and excellence now, we are sure to fall behind our East Asian competitors in the future--at the expense of the American people. In addition to the provision of funding for manufacturing facilities, the CHIPS Act includes about $100 billion for the research and development of secure semiconductors and secure microelectronic supply chains. This would include the creation of a Subcommittee on Microelectronics Leadership which would be tasked with developing a national strategy for the creation of a robust microelectronics industry in the United States and setting priorities for the maintenance of American leadership in advanced chip design and production. This is our opportunity to secure the economic and national security of our nation. It is our opportunity to provide much-needed jobs and industry. It is our opportunity to return the United States of America to its position of prominence and example as a world leader in innovation and manufacturing. Made in America is good for business, it's good for security, and it's good for our people. That is why I wholeheartedly support the passage of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. I include in the Record a list of NASA bills I have sponsored and cosponsored. 1. H.R. 5250--117th Congress (2021-2022) Advancing Human Spaceflight Act of 2021 Sponsor: Rep. Garcia, Sylvia R. [D- TX-29] (Introduced 09/14/2021) Cosponsors: (2) Committees: House--Science, Space, and Technology Latest Action: House-- 09/14/2021 Referred to the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics. 2. H.R. 869--117th Congress (2021-2022) RISE Act of 2021 Sponsor: Rep. DeGette, Diana [D-CO-1] (Introduced 02/05/2021) Cosponsors: (178) Committees: House--Science, Space, and Technology; Agriculture; Armed Services; Education and Labor; Energy and Commerce; Natural Resources; Transportation and Infrastructure Latest Action: House--03/03/2021 Referred to the Subcommittee for Indigenous Peoples of the United States. 3. H.R. 7308--116th Congress (2019-2020) RISE Act Sponsor: Rep. DeGette, Diana [D-CO-1] (Introduced 06/24/2020) Cosponsors: (147) Committees: House--Science, Space, and Technology; Agriculture; Armed Services; Education and Labor; Energy and Commerce; Natural Resources Latest Action: House-- 08/13/2020 Referred to the Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research. 4. H.R. 4304--116th Congress (2019-2020) NASA Enhanced Use Lease Authority Act of 2019 Sponsor: Rep. Palazzo, Steven M. [R-MS-4] (Introduced 09/12/2019) Cosponsors: (40) Committees: House--Science, Space, and Technology Latest Action: House-- 09/12/2019 Referred to the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. 5. H.R. 1865--116th Congress (2019-2020) Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020 Sponsor: Rep. Pascrell, Bill, Jr. [D-NJ-9] (Introduced 03/25/2019) Cosponsors: (304) Committees: House--Financial Services Committee Print: H.Prt. 116-44 Latest Action: 12/20/2019 Became Public Law No: 116- 94. 6. H.R. 1396--116th Congress (2019-2020) Hidden Figures Congressional Gold Medal Act Sponsor: Rep. Johnson, Eddie Bernice [D-TX-30] (Introduced 02/27/2019) Cosponsors: (314) Committees: House--Financial Services; House Administration Latest Action: 11/08/2019 Became Public Law No: 116-68. 7. H.R. 255--111th Congress (2009-2010) NASA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Introduced 01/07/2009) Cosponsors: (2) Committees: House--Financial Services Latest Action: House-- 01/07/2009 Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services. 8. H.R. 6455--110th Congress (2007-2008) NASA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Introduced 07/10/2008) Cosponsors: (1) Committees: House--Financial Services Latest Action: Senate-- 07/16/2008 Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 885. 9. H. Res. 1315--110th Congress (2007-2008) Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Sponsor: Rep. McCaul, Michael T. [R-TX-10] (Introduced 06/26/2008) Cosponsors: (44) Committees: House-- Science and Technology Latest Action: House--07/10/2008 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. 10. H. Amdt. 1096--110th Congress (2007-2008) Description: Amendment to clarify that the NASA Outreach and Technology Assistance Program will include small, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses. It would also give preference, in selection for the program, to socially and economically disadvantaged small business concerns, small business concerns owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans, and HUBZone small business concerns. Amends Bill: H.R. 6063 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 06/12/ 2008) Latest Action: 06/12/08 On agreeing to the Jackson-Lee (TX) amendment (Ao12) Agreed to by voice vote. 11. H. Amdt. 691--110th Congress (2007-2008) Description: Amendment to prohibit the funds made available in this Act may be used in violation of Subtitle A of Title VIII (International Space Station Independent Safety Taskforce) of the NASA Authorization Act of 2005. Amends Bill: H.R. 3093 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 07/26/ 2007) Latest Action: 07/26/07 On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment (A049) Agreed to by voice vote. 12. H.R. 2750--110th Congress (2007-2008) NASA 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Introduced 06/15/2007) Cosponsors: (296) Committees: House--Financial Services, Senate--Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Latest Action: Senate--08/03/2007 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. 13. H.R. 2500--110th Congress (2007-2008) NASA and JPL 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Introduced 05/24/2007) Cosponsors: (1) Committees: House--Financial Services Latest Action: House-- 05/24/2007 Referred to the House Committee on Financial Services. 14. H. Res. 446--110th Congress (2007-2008) Honoring the life and accomplishments of Astronaut Walter Marty Schirra and expressing condolences on his passing. Sponsor: Rep. Bilbray, Brian P. [R-CA-50] (Introduced 05/24/2007) Cosponsors: (7) Committees: House--Science and Technology Latest Action: House--06/06/2007 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. 15. H. Res. 316--110th Congress (2007-2008) Recognizing the accomplishments of Roger D. Kornberg, Andrew Fire, Craig Mello, John C. Mather, and George F. Smoot for being awarded Nobel Prizes in the fields of chemistry, physiology or medicine, and physics. Sponsor: Rep. McNerney, Jerry [D-CA-11] (Introduced 04/18/ 2007) Cosponsors: (9) Committees: House--Science and Technology Latest Action: House--05/01/2007 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. 16. H.R. 363--110th Congress (2007-2008) Sowing the Seeds Through Science and Engineering Research Act Sponsor: Rep. Gordon, Bart [D-TN-6] (Introduced 01/10/2007) Cosponsors: (18) Committees: House--Science and Technology, Senate-- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee Report: H. Rept. 110-39 Latest Action: Senate--04/25/2007 Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. 17. H. Con. Res. 448--109th Congress (2005-2006) Commending the National Aeronautics and Space Administration on the completion of the Space Shuttle's second Return-to-Flight mission. Sponsor: Rep. Paul, Ron [R-TX-14] (Introduced 07/13/ 2006) Cosponsors: (34) Committees: House--Science Latest Action: Senate--07/21/2006 Message on Senate action sent to the House. 18. H.R. 5356--109th Congress (2005-2006) Research for Competitiveness Act Sponsor: Rep. McCaul, Michael T. [R-TX- 10] (Introduced 05/11/2006) Cosponsors: (31) Committees: House--Science Committee Report: H. Rept. 109-525 Latest Action: House--06/22/2006 Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 294. 19. H. Con. Res. 366--109th Congress (2005-2006) To congratulate the National Aeronautics and Space Administration on the 25th anniversary of the first flight of the Space Transportation System, to honor Commander John Young and the Pilot Robert Crippen, who flew Space Shuttle Columbia on April 12-14, 1981, on its first orbital test flight, and to commend the men and women of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and all those supporting America's space program for their accomplishments and their role in inspiring the American people. Sponsor: Rep. Calvert, Ken [RCA-44] (Introduced 03/29/2006) Cosponsors: (52) Committees: House--Science Latest Action: Senate--04/07/2006 Message on Senate action sent to the House. 20. H. Amdt. 512--109th Congress (2005-2006) Description: Amendment requires the NASA Administrator to transmit to Congress a plan describing steps to be taken by NASA to protect the employment status of NASA employees who raise or have raised concerns about a potentially catastrophic risk to health or safety. Amends Bill: H.R. 3070 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 07/22/2005) Latest Action: 07/22/05 On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment (A005) Agreed to by voice vote. 21. H. Amdt. 510--109th Congress (2005-2006) Amends Bill: H.R. 3070 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 07/22/2005) Latest Action: 07/22/05 By unanimous consent, the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment was withdrawn. 22. H.R. 3250--109th Congress (2005-2006) National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2005 Sponsor: Rep. Gordon, Bart [D-TN-6] (Introduced 07/12/ 2005) Cosponsors: (19) Committees: House--Science Latest Action: House--07/27/2005 Referred to the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics. Notes: For further action, see S. 1281, which became Public Law 109-155 on 12/30/2005. 23. H. Amdt. 284--109th Congress (2005-2006) Amends Bill: H.R. 2862 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 06/15/2005) Latest Action: 06/15/05 On agreeing to the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment (A037) Agreed to by voice vote. 24. H. Amdt. 254--109th Congress (2005-2006) Amends Bill: H.R. 2862 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Offered 06/14/2005) Latest Action: 06/14/05 By unanimous consent, the Jackson Lee (TX) amendment was withdrawn. 25. H.R. 68--109th Congress (2005-2006) NASA and JPL 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Culberson, John Abney [R-TX-7] (Introduced 01/04/2005) Cosponsors: (290) Committees: House--Financial Services; Ways and Means, Senate--Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee Report: H. Rept. 109-133 Latest Action: Senate-- 07/13/2005 Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. 26. H.R. 4881--108th Congress (2003-2004) NASA and JPL 50th Anniversary Commemorative Coin Act Sponsor: Rep. Culberson, John Abney [R-TX-7] (Introduced 07/21/2004) Cosponsors: (347) Committees: House--Financial Services Latest Action: House-- 08/03/2004 Referred to the Subcommittee on Domestic and International Monetary Policy, Trade, and Technology. 27. H. Res. 723--108th Congress (2003-2004) Recognizing the 35th anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing, and for other purposes. Sponsor: Rep. Hall, Ralph M. [R-TX-4] (Introduced 07/19/2004) Cosponsors: (27) Committees: House-- Science Latest Action: House--07/21/2004 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection. 28. H.R. 4522--108th Congress (2003-2004) International Space Station Independent Safety Commission Act of 2004 Sponsor: Rep. Jackson Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Introduced 06/ 08/2004) Cosponsors: (0) Committees: House--Science Latest Action: House--06/14/2004 Referred to the Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics. 29. H. Res. 550--108th Congress (2003-2004) Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives relating to the extraordinary contributions resulting from the Hubble Space Telescope to scientific research and education, and to the need to reconsider future service missions to the Hubble Space Telescope. Sponsor: Rep. Udall, Mark [D-CO-2] (Introduced 03/03/2004) Cosponsors: (77) Committees: House-- Science Latest Action: House--03/03/2004 Referred to the House Committee on Science. 30. H. Res. 490--108th Congress (2003-2004) Recognizing and commending the achievements of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and Cornell University in conducting the Mars Exploration Rover mission, and recognizing the importance of space exploration. Sponsor: Rep. Dreier, David [R-CA-26] (Introduced 01/20/2004) Cosponsors: (31) Committees: House--Science Latest Action: House--01/21/2004 Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.)

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3771, known as the South Asian Heart Health Awareness and Research Act of 2021. This bill establishes programs that support heart-disease research and awareness among communities disproportionately affected by heart disease, like the South Asian community within the United States. The South Asian American community across the United States grew by nearly 40 percent between 2010 and 2017. Today, there are over 5 million South Asian Americans in the United States. South Asian Americans are four times more likely to suffer from heart disease than other ethnic groups, and experience heart problems nearly a decade earlier on average. Globally, South Asians have emerged as the ethnic group with the highest prevalence of Type 2 diabetes, which is a leading cause of heart disease. Type 2 diabetes often occurs due to a combination of a patient's genetics, and environment. Those with South Asian heritage contain a genetic predisposition that places them at an even greater risk for Type 2 diabetes, and by extension, heart disease. Studies have shown that South Asians in the United States--people who immigrated from or whose families immigrated from countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal--are experiencing dramatic rises in rates of heart disease when compared to other immigrant groups within the United States. As a co-chair of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus and a member of the Congressional India Caucus, I've had the pleasure of engaging with members of the South Asian community, especially within my hometown of Houston. Texas has one of the highest populations of South Asian Americans, along with California and New Jersey. This bill would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary to create grants to provide funding for community groups involved in South Asian heart health advocacy, while also developing culturally appropriate materials to promote heart health in the South Asian community. These culturally appropriate materials to promote heart health would be tailored by health care providers who best understand the specific needs of the South Asian community within the United States. It would also direct the HHS Secretary to fund grants through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct research on cardiovascular disease and other heart ailments. Organizations like the South Asian Heart Center and the South Asian Health Initiative would be eligible for these opportunities. These organizations work to educate members of the South Asian American community about their increased risk for heart disease, lead prevention efforts through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, and work on research towards understanding why South Asian Americans are at an increased risk for heart disease. This legislation would be instrumental in improving the health and wellbeing of millions of Americans. It is endorsed by a number of health organizations such as: the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, American Medical Association, American Stroke Association, WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, South Asian Public Health Association, Hindu American Foundation, Hindu American Physicians in Seva, South Asian Health Lifestyle Intervention, Bangladsh Medical Association of North America, and South Asian Heart Center. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3771.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4040 the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act of 2021, which would make permanent several telehealth flexibilities under Medicare that were initially authorized during the COVID-19 public health emergency. This bill would extend the life-saving measures put in place by Congress during the COVID-19 pandemic that allowed millions of American people to access telehealth-care. Specifically, H.R. 4040 would: permanently remove originating site and geographical restrictions that limited telehealth services to designated clinics in the event of a physician shortage, give rural providers the ability to serve patients remotely while being properly compensated for their work, empower providers to provide access to smart devices and innovative digital technology to their patients for monitoring purposes, and provide coverage for audio-only evaluation, management, and behavioral health services. H.R. 4040 would codify critical telehealth policies implemented during the pandemic for the continued benefit of all, but especially those in isolated communities, people with disabilities, and seniors. Telehealth has dramatically improved the medical industry by making healthcare more accessible to people in rural areas, those with mobility concerns, and individuals whose work or family schedules may not accommodate an appointment at a physical location. During the height of the pandemic, while more than 3,000 people were dying per day of the virus, telehealth served as an invaluable weapon against the spread of infectious disease. Remote screening and care prevented undue burden on our already exhausted medical professionals and allowed patients to get the care they needed without putting themselves or their families at risk. What began as emergency protocol then, has now emerged as best practice. Currently, 76 percent of hospitals in the U.S. connect doctors and patients remotely via telehealth. This is up from 35 percent a decade ago. Remote healthcare allows for greater flexibility for patients, enables certain physicians like allergists or occupational therapists to access an individual's environmental needs, and streamlines the scheduling process to prevent long wait times and wasted time. Telehealth has allowed doctors to monitor their patients' chronic conditions more closely, like heart or lung disease. Better monitoring can improve patients' quality-of life and reduce hospital admissions and deaths from chronic diseases. Additionally, telehealth is a good way to deliver care quickly in an emergency, such as a stroke or heart attack. Telehealth has also played a significant role in expanding pediatric mental healthcare access. As of April 2019, there were only 8,300 practicing child and adolescent psychiatrists in the U.S. This number is dwarfed by the more than 15 million kids and teens in need of a psychiatric provider. For over a decade, The University of Texas Medical Branch has offered telehealth services for rural patients. After initially partnering with community mental health clinics in fringe counties, the program has since been able to expand adolescent mental health services directly to school districts. This means children without access to a local psychiatrist can receive the care they need without being pulled from school or traveling long distances. It also means psychiatrists can observe children in their natural setting at home or in school, rather than in an inorganic hospital environment. Telehealth allows children to be where they ought to be--in the classroom getting an education. These are just some of the many examples of how telehealth has aided our healthcare system in providing the quality medical services that our constituents deserve. The passage of H.R. 4040, the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act of 2021, would ensure that these positive developments continue to benefit communities across the country. It is important to note, however, that telehealth has not always served all people equally. Historical data shows that People of Color have long faced obstacles to getting the critical health care services they need. Unfortunately, the rapid implementation of telemedicine hasn't bridged the equality divide as much as one would have hoped. A study led by the University of Houston College of Medicine found that African Americans were 35 percent less likely to use telemedicine compared to White Americans, and those in Hispanic communities were 51 percent less likely to use it. Only 66 percent of African American and 61 percent of Hispanic households have access to broadband internet compared to 79 percent of white households. Additionally, only a quarter of families earning $30,000 or less have smart devices, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop at home, limiting their access to telehealth services. So, while telehealth has reduced many barriers to adequate healthcare, we must stay vigilant to the needs of our most disadvantaged community members. We are a long way from full medical equality in this country, however, I believe that the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act of 2021 is an important step in bringing us closer to that goal. H.R. 4040 is an opportunity to connect our healthcare providers with patients who might otherwise go without the medical care they so desperately need. It is an opportunity to lift our nation's healthcare into the 21st century and to utilize technology as a medical equalizer. I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 4040 the Advancing Telehealth Beyond COVID-19 Act of 2021.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 6929, the ``Susan Muffley Act of 2022.'' H.R. 6929 is a bipartisan, bicameral effort to restore the retirement benefits for over 20,000 Delphi salaried retirees. This legislation will lay out a formal procedure to pay the difference between the pension benefits earned by Delphi salaried retirees and what they received following the General Motors (GM) bankruptcy in 2009. Moreover, it will ensure that beneficiaries who have already begun receiving benefits will receive a separate payment of the difference between what was actually paid by the U.S. Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC) and what would have been paid without the limitations plus interest. Under H.R. 6929, retirees from this auto parts manufacturing company will be eligible for increased benefits in connection with the following pension plans: The Delphi Hourly-Rate Employees Pension Plan. The Delphi Retirement Program for Salaried Employees. The PHI Non-Bargaining Retirement Plan. The ASEC Manufacturing Retirement Program. The PHI Bargaining Retirement Plan. The Delphi Mechatronic Systems Retirement Program. During the Great Recession of 2009, several major auto manufactuers including GM filed for bankruptcy. As a result, the PBGC recklessly cut retirement benefits by as much as 70 percent for more than 20,000 Delphi salaried retirees, including over 500 retirees in Texas. This is unacceptable. Social Security, pensions, and personal savings have long ensured that workers could retire with dignity. Now, majority of these retirees are struggling to stay afloat especially those with climbing medical bills. Therefore, I applaud the efforts of my colleagues in both the House and Senate for bringing this issue into greater focus. Those who have worked hard their entire lives and played by the rules deserve the benefits they earned. That is why I am proud to support this legislation that will restore the benefits that hundreds of Texans were promised. This legislation will relieve the suffering of thousands of salaried and hourly workers who were left behind after GM's filing for bankruptcy. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 6929 to finally correct the mistreatment of these union members and allow them to live out the rest of days with dignity.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, last week, I viewed a wall that showed Brittney Griner and a list of hostages, American citizens, held around the world. A few weeks ago, the United States House went on record to demand the release of Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan. I have always argued that the sovereignty of the United States should insist on the freedom of its citizens. Now, we find that it has been made public what we have known and what we have pressed for: The United States is actively negotiating to bring Brittney, BG, and Paul Whelan home. It is crucial to let it be known that we are negotiating with an entity that does not want to be fair. So, we demand that Russia be fair and negotiate the freedom of Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan. She sits in a cage, a cage when they transport her and a cage when she is in trial. Obviously, the case is that this was a mistake, and there is no basis for her conviction. We know that everyone that goes to trial in Russia is convicted, found guilty. Free her now. Free Paul Whelan. As I close, I acknowledge the Americans with Disabilities Act on its 32nd anniversary. It is an important law.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 6552, the ``Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2022. H.R. 6552 is a bipartisan initiative to bolster programs and provide critical funding to combat human trafficking. I would like to thank Congressman Chris Smith, for authoring today's legislation, and Congresswoman Karen Bass, for co-leading this initiative to take important steps in preventing trafficking and protecting the most vulnerable among us. This bill will effectively reauthorize the historic Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. H.R. 6552 will provide more than $1 billion over five years to support education, restorative care, and other programs that protect victims of human trafficking. This includes strengthening the Frederick Douglass Human Trafficking Prevention Education Grants created in the Frederick Douglass Act of 2018. Frederick Douglass Prevention Education grants work to prevent online grooming and trafficking of children through trauma-informed approaches and programs. H.R. 6552 will also authorize the Secretary of Health and Human Services to carry out a Human Trafficking Survivors Employment and Education Program to prevent the re-exploitation of eligible individuals who have been victims of trafficking. The program will provide job-related skills training, life-skill training programs, assistance with enrollment in college or technical school, and other programs and services to help individuals achieve selfsufficiency. H.R. 6552 commits to fighting human trafficking both domestically and internationally. Today's bill will also reauthorize ``International Megan's Law'' to track convicted sex offenders living abroad and returning to the U.S. after living in foreign countries. It goes further by adding accountability for U.S. Federal and foreign governments, hotels, and airlines with anti-trafficking training and codes of conduct. My record in Congress reflects my longstanding, deep commitment to fighting human trafficking. While drafting the major update of the Violence Against Women's Act (VAWA), I added human trafficking provisions that address more resources and tools to aid local law enforcement and advocacy groups to assist victims and seek justice for them. I also introduced H.R. 128, the RAISE Act, which directs the Attorney General to create a pilot youth diversion program for youth that have been the victims of abuse, sex or drug trafficking, or other violent conduct, and for whom the criminal conduct is due in whole or in part to that victimization. Texas has the second-highest number of reported cases of human trafficking in the nation. In 2020, the National Human Trafficking Hotline reported a total of 987 human trafficking cases in Texas. This statistic is only a fraction of the actual number of cases since human trafficking is difficult to detect and measure. Researchers from the University of Texas have found that more than 300,000 people are victims of some sort of human trafficking each year in Texas. The Department of Justice declared Houston as one of the largest hubs in the nation for human trafficking. Human trafficking is modern-day slavery and a global problem. Today's legislation provides the necessary additional support to victims of human trafficking. It goes further by enforcing preventative measures to help ensure victims are not trafficked again. H.R. 6552 programs are dedicated to education and offer innovative practices to help survivors navigate the pathway to self-sufficiency and recovery. Too often women and girls who are victims of trafficking are arrested for crimes associated with their victimization, but they are treated as criminals and not victims in need of services. I find these practices to be heinous, disgusting, and unconscionable. A victim who has just been forced into the most vile, vicious, and vulnerable reality of being trafficked must not be treated as a criminal, just like the person who trafficked her. It is almost inconceivable that this continues to occur in modern-day America. Yet, it is the actual reality for millions of trafficked women. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 6552.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7002, the Gateway Solidarity Act, which would authorize the illumination of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, by blue and yellow lights for a certain period of time to show support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people. It has been five months since Russia invaded Ukraine, and the relentless pain caused to the Ukrainian people has not subsided. Families are being separated by war, adults and children are being ruthlessly killed, and a rogue Russia is violently crushing political speech from its own citizens who oppose the war. The threat and aggression by Russia has persisted despite global resistance. This act of aggression on the part of Russia creates instability in the region and places at risk the over 70 years of global peace that followed World War II. The lives of all Ukrainians matter at this moment, and we must do what we can while we can to stop Russia's assault on the people of Ukraine and its democratically elected government. As President Biden so aptly stated, ``We either back the Ukrainian people as they defend their country or stand by as Russia continues its atrocities and aggression.'' The United States must continue to support Ukraine during their time of war. I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 7002, the Gateway Solidarity Act. My thoughts and prayers are with the Ukrainian people during their darkest hour.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in strong support of H.R. 8404, the ``Respect for Marriage Act.'' This Act would enshrine in federal law marriage equality for same sex and interracial couples. I would also repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) of 1996 that problematically defined marriage as between one man and one woman. The Supreme Court's backwards ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization that was used to justify overturning the right to abortion could be weaponized in the future to strip away other fundamental rights, including the right to marriage equality. In his concurring opinion in Dobbs, Justice Clarence Thomas explicitly called on the Supreme Court to reconsider its decisions protecting other fundamental rights, including the right to same-sex marriage recognized in Obergefell v. Hodges. Although Justice Thomas conveniently chose not to mention the right to interracial marriage--a right he currently enjoys--that right relies on the same constitutional doctrines as the right to same-sex marriage, and therefore, could also be on the chopping block. The Supreme Court's rulings in Loving v. Virginia, and Obergefell v. Hodges were founded on the promise of unenumerated rights and due process for all American people as guaranteed in the 9th and 14th Amendments of our Nation's Constitution. The 9th Amendment states that the Federal Government does not retain final authority over rights not listed in the Constitution--including the right to marry someone regardless of their sex or race. No, that very personal and intimate right, remains retained by the people. Additionally, the 14th Amendment ensures that no right afforded to the American people can be taken away without due process of law, while also guaranteeing to all Americans that they shall have equal protection under the law. Equal protection under the law. The same law that applies to a Black man wishing to marry a Hispanic woman must be applied equally to an Indigenous woman wishing to marry a White woman, a nonbinary individual wishing to marry a man, and so on. That is the constitutional promise in the United States. Marriage equality is not a right that can be stripped away by a conservative faction of the United States Supreme Court, nor by extremist Republican legislators. It is a fundamental aspect of our democracy. The assurances of the 14th Amendment became part of our national governing documents as a protection against those who would use their power to wipe away the freedoms of others without restraint or consent of the governed. It is unfortunate that we must rely on its strength again today. The night before the Dobbs ruling, LGBTQI+ couples and people in interracial relationships went to sleep confident in the legality of their marriages. They had no reason to believe that the next morning five individuals would pass a ruling that would strip women of their right to abortion and threaten the legality of their marriage unions. On June 24th, amidst the horror of the Court's ruling against abortion rights, innocent LGBTQI+, Black, and Brown people had to also grapple with the possibility that the legality of their marriages might be violently stripped away. We cannot and will not allow Republican lawmakers and conservative Justices to toy with the rights of the American people. That is why I strongly support the Respect for Marriage Act. This act would ensure that an individual be considered married as long as the marriage was valid in the State where it was performed. This ensures that same-sex and interracial couples would continue to enjoy equal treatment under Federal law--as the Constitution requires. This bill would go further by officially repealing the Defense of Marriage Act. While the Supreme Court effectively rendered DOMA inert with its decision in Obergefell, this unconstitutional and discriminatory law, however, still officially remains on the books. Therefore, H.R. 8404 would repeal DOMA once and for all. The Respect for Marriage Act would also prohibit any person acting under color of state law from denying full faith and credit to an out- of-state marriage based on the sex, race, ethnicity or national origin of the individuals in the marriage. It would also authorize the U.S. Attorney General to enforce these protections and would create recourses of action for any individual harmed by a violation of this provision. If conservative lawmakers and Justices want to wage war against human and civil rights, we are ready to meet them toe for toe. We will meet them with the full strength of the United States Bill of Rights to defend the American people against discrimination and injustice. We will not back down for marriage equality. We will not back down for racial justice. We will ensure equal rights for all American people. I strongly put my full support behind H.R. 8404, the Respect for Marriage Act, and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 1130: Expressing support for the sovereign decision of Finland and Sweden to apply to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as well as calling on all members of NATO to ratify the protocols of accession swiftly. The resolution expresses support for Finland and Sweden's historic decision to apply to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and opposes any attempt by the Russian government to obstruct Finland and Sweden's decision to apply to join NATO. The bill also calls on the member states of NATO to formally support the accession of Finland and Sweden into the transatlantic alliance. Finland and Sweden have worked with the NATO alliance for nearly thirty years, and they are widely regarded as capable security partners. They joined NATO's Partnership for Peace in 1994 and both contributed personnel to NATO-led operations in Afghanistan, the Balkans, and Iraq. In 2014, they became two of just six Enhanced Opportunity Partners and have since worked to increase their militaries' ability to operate with NATO forces. Sweden recently hosted more than a dozen NATO allies and Finland in BALTOPS 22, a major maritime exercise in the Baltic Sea. Both nations are EU members and solid democracies with sophisticated economies, secure borders, and highly advanced militaries. There is no question that Finland and Sweden are well-equipped to join NATO. There is also no question that Russia's aggression will not diminish. With a reported death toll of over 10,000 soldiers and civilians, there is no guarantee that nearby nations are safe from mass destruction. Russia has a long history of invading and annexing bordering countries, which is all the more reason for fortifying the NATO alliance. We must do everything in our power to put an end to the violence continually caused by Russia and bring back peace to the region. Finnish and Swedish membership in NATO will stretch NATO's borders and bolster our collective defenses in northern Europe. Finland shares an 830 mile border with Russia, which would more than double Russia's border with NATO. Sweden's defense budget for 2022 is estimated to total $8.6 billion, while Finland's is $6.3 billion, according to the Global Firepower Index. Both Sweden and Finland have announced plans to dramatically boost their military spending in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. I urge all my colleagues to support H. Res. 1130: Expressing support for the sovereign decision of Finland and Sweden to apply to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as well as calling on all members of NATO to ratify the protocols of accession swiftly.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 7025, the ``Advancing Human Rights-Centered International Conservation Act of 2022.'' H.R. 7025 is a bipartisan effort instructing the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service from funding entities that commit, fund, or support gross violations of internationally recognized human rights, and for other purposes. This legislation provides procedures on how to identify human rights violators including: A concrete framework of requirements for an international entity to apply for and receive a conservation grant. Creating a Social Safeguards Plan that will implement appropriate human rights standards and prevent gross violations of internationally recognized human rights in connections with activities funded under the award. Reporting requirement for grant recipients who stand accused of violating international human rights. Generating a formal review process that would include an investigation and may require the grant recipient to address the alleged violation. I applaud the efforts of my colleague, Congressman Grijalva and his office for uplifting this issue. Through this effort, we are reminding the American people that the fight against environmental degradation must go hand in hand with Congress' commitment to uphold human rights across the globe. I know firsthand the importance of environmental conservation efforts both at home and abroad. In my home state of Texas, about 1,300 species of plants and animals are currently on the endangered list, diminishing our biodiversity. Several economic sectors including agriculture depend on natural resources so we need to make sure that we are facing the effects of the climate crisis head-on. These grants from the Fish and Wildlife Service will equip us with the tools to ensure clean air, land and water will be accessible to our children. When enacted, H.R. 7025 will lay out a formal procedure to curtail those seeking financial assistance from the U.S. but clearly do not have a respect for human rights. This legislation sends a clear message that recipients of conservation grants funded by the American taypayer must respect American values. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 7025 to confront those who continue to violate human rights around the world and uplift the democratic values we work to protect.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Madam Speaker, my friends on the other side of the aisle must have amnesia. You know why we are on this floor today? Because of the Dobbs case from a runaway Supreme Court, dominated by Members who answered that they understood precedent in Roe v. Wade and ignored it. I thank Congresswoman Manning and all of the cosponsors who recognize that we have to methodically protect women. Do you know what is happening to doctors? Every news station will have doctors on, frightened about what they should do about women's healthcare. This is important legislation, Right to Contraception, because it does deal with menstrual regulation, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalance. Teenagers are given this because of menstrual problems, but those who don't understand this, they are standing on the floor talking about this is a runaway bill. If it is coronavirus, the monkey pox, or any other health matter, it is Democrats who are saving America. This legislation is definitely needed because the Supreme Court has trampled on the Constitution, trampled on the Ninth Amendment, trampled on equal protection under the law. I support H.R. 8373. The women who are in need, who are vulnerable, who are individuals, who are minority women need this legislation. Madam Speaker, I am proud to rise in strong support of H.R. 8373, the ``Right to Contraception Act.'' H.R. 8373 would expressly assert the right of an individual to obtain and utilize contraception. This would include any FDA approved device or medication used to prevent pregnancy, whether specifically used for that goal, or for other health needs like menstrual regulation, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalance. Additionally, the ``Right to Contraception Act'' would outline the rights of healthcare providers to prescribe and dispense contraceptives and relevant information to patients. This bill would require lawmakers who attempt to place additional requirements on providers or access to contraception to prove that the requirement significantly advances access to contraceptives and that access could not be better achieved by other methods. Birth control pills, IUDs, and other forms of contraception are all forms of safe and essential healthcare. They are central to women's ability to participate equally in the workplace, in academia, and in society. The right to contraceptives has long been an expectation held by the American people. In 1965, the United States Supreme Court's decision in Griswald v. Connecticut affirmed a married couple's right to birth control. In 1972, Eisenstadt v. Baird protected that right for single people. Then in 1977, the right to contraception for minors was secured in Carey v. Population Services International. For more than 50 years, the right to contraception has been settled law. That is, until the Supreme Court's recent ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, when five conservative Justices chose to let their personal opinions and beliefs supersede decades of established precedent by overturning women's right to abortion. Since then, the American people have witnessed the abhorrent consequences of Republicans' radical agenda to criminalize women's reproductive health decisions. In his concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas made it very clear that the extremist ruling that ended Roe v. Wade could be used to chop away at other rights--including the right to access contraception. Reproductive rights opponents are now including emergency contraception, IUDs, and other forms of birth control in their anti- abortion legislation. These anti-abortion laws shackle women to unwanted pregnancies. Conservative lawmakers now seek to stop women from exerting agency over the prevention of pregnancy, as well. If a woman is not permitted to end a pregnancy, and she is not permitted to prevent a pregnancy, I ask you, what rights to her body does she have left? The ability to make personal choices about one's own body is the most basic of fundamental human rights. That right is engraved into the very foundation of our Nation and inked into the hallowed lines of the U.S. Constitution. Do we not uphold our Constitution for its promise of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness? How then, can we withhold those rights from half of our population by robbing women of agency over their bodies? In 1965, the United States Supreme Court made the 7-2 Griswold v. Connecticut ruling that established the right for married couples to utilize contraception. This decision was not determined by the personal belief systems of those Justices nor their approval or disapproval of contraception. No, the right to access contraception was upheld by the promise of unenumerated rights and due process for all American people--as outlined in the United States Bill of Rights. As my colleagues know, the 9th Amendment states that the federal government does not retain final authority over the rights that are not listed in the Constitution. The Bill of Rights does not exhaust all the rights retained by the people. Instead, those undocumented rights belong to the people, as does the right to contraception. Also, as a hallmark of democracy, the 14th Amendment ensures that no right afforded to the American people can be taken away without due process of law, while also guaranteeing all Americans that they shall have equal protection under the law. The assurances of the 14th Amendment became part of our national governing documents as a protection against those who would use their power to wipe away the freedoms of others without restraint or consent of the governed. Unfortunately, it is just as necessary and relevant today as it was when it was ratified in 1868. Even before the barbaric Dobbs ruling, conservative lawmakers across the country have been moving to limit women's ability to make decisions about their own healthcare and bodies. In 2021 alone, at least 4 states attempted to ban access to some or all contraceptives by restricting public funding for these products and services. Those laws work in conjunction with actions conservative legislators in red states have taken to curtail funding for family planning services at reproductive health centers like Planned Parenthood. Such actions would limit access to birth control, particularly for Black and Brown low-income women. A 2010 study found that access to contraceptive care resulted in approximately one million fewer unplanned conceptions per year. That is one million fewer children born into families who are unprepared to support them. When access to contraceptives is limited, more children are born into lives of difficulty and hardship. After Texas Republicans excluded Planned Parenthood from its public family planning program for low-income women, there was a 35 percent drop in prescriptions for long-acting, reversible contraceptives and a 31 percent drop in the use of injectable contraceptives. This caused a more than 25 percent increase in unintended births-- largely among Black and Brown low-income women. H.R. 8373, the ``Right to Contraception Act,'' would help ensure that children are born into families who are eager, equipped, and prepared for their arrival. We cannot allow human rights to be so callously stripped away from the American people. We must fight back and codify these rights into law. Contraception allows individuals, couples, and families to be in control of their own futures. Contraception can allow a young woman to achieve her dreams of earning a college degree. It can allow a young couple to prioritize their careers before raising a child. It can allow parents to focus their financial and emotional resources on the care of a special needs son or daughter. It is a tool that allows those who wish to become parents, and those who do not, the agency to make the decision that is best for them. The Right to Contraception Act asserts that we will no longer allow the human rights of women to be infringed. If conservative legislators and conservative Justices intend to continue to attempt to limit access to reproductive rights, we will fight back. We will not allow women to be regulated like reproductive chattel. American women deserve to have the final authority over their own bodies and their own lives, including whether or not to become pregnant and become a parent. Contraception is on the front lines of this battle. That is why I support H.R. 8373, the ``Right to Contraception Act'', and encourage my colleagues to do so as well.

Ms. JACKSON LEE

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, over this past week, we have had to raise concerns about whether the Constitution still stood strong. I am glad that we have worked hard to ensure the Ninth Amendment and the equal protection of the law are viable parts of American society and constitutional rights. I rise today to promote H.R. 40, the Commission to Study Slavery and Develop Reparation Proposals, as a way of redress, repair, and restoration for the 246 years of slavery. I think it is important and an important moment for the country to pause and understand this historic moment in our history, the contributions that slaves made, including building this very place, the United States Capitol and the White House, and, as well, the economic engine that they created when making cotton king--never to be compensated, never to be provided for, but still turned into patriots that fought in every world war. It is crucial that we move expeditiously to establish this commission to tell their story and to work on the restoration of the disparities that are found in the African-American community from east to west and north to south. I cannot think of a reason why this House and this administration would not want to move on something as embracing as H.R. 40. Let's move it now.