Robert Latta

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize WTOL's Jerry Anderson for his years of service to Northwest Ohio as today will be his last day before retiring. Jerry has served Northwest Ohio as a valued and trustworthy face on the local news for more than 40 years. Jerry Anderson started his career in Bowling Green on the radio airwaves for WFOB in 1974 before beginning his TV news career in 1980. Jerry covered four national political conventions, the inaugurations of three presidents, and Pope John Paul II's visit to Detroit into the living room of families in Northwest Ohio, and he was someone that Ohioans knew they could count on. Jerry is beloved and respected because he truly cares about Northwest Ohio and the people that live there. He's been active in local charitable efforts, including earning his certification as an auctioneer so he could volunteer for more than 20 charity auctions annually. He also can often be seen as an emcee at community events to help raise funding for local schools, disadvantaged families, and individuals with disabilities. I know his dedication to our region, as I've spent many years next to him at the Applebutter Fest in Grand Rapids, Ohio. Jerry always made time to talk. Mr. Speaker, Jerry Anderson is an institution in Toledo and Northwest Ohio, and while he'll be sorely missed, I wish him the best of luck in his retirement.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H.R. 449, the Synthetic Drug Awareness Act of 2018. Synthetic drugs, such as synthetic marijuana and bath salts, are produced in the lab and can have chemical structures that are designed to mimic or even enhance those naturally occurring drugs. Fentanyl, another synthetic drug, a substance that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine, has numerous analogs. These drugs are modified to circumvent the Drug Enforcement Administration's scheduling regime and are a serious public health risk. That is why H.R. 449 is so important, because it will require the United States Surgeon General to submit a comprehensive report to Congress on the public health effects of synthetic drug use among youth. I would like to thank my colleague from New York, Representative Hakeem Jeffries, for his hard work on this important initiative, along with Representatives Chris Collins, G.K. Butterfield, and Trey Gowdy. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous materials in the Record on the bill.

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 449) to require the Surgeon General of the Public Health Service to submit to Congress a report on the effects on public health of the increased rate of use of synthetic drugs, as amended.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman of the committee for all his hard work and for especially shepherding these 57 bills that we got through committee on the opioid crisis that we have in this country. I thank him for that and for helping on this piece of legislation today. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4284, the INFO Act, the Indexing Narcotics, Fentanyl, and Opioids Act. In Ohio, we have experienced some of the worst of the crisis. In a 12-month period ending June 30 of last year, 5,232 lives were lost due to overdoses. That is a 39 percent increase from the previous year and three times the national average. In talking with my constituents across the district, I have learned that to make a real difference in the lives of those who are struggling with addiction, we need to get more data, information, and funding into the hands of the right people. That is exactly what the INFO Act does. My bill creates a public dashboard consisting of comprehensive information and data on nationwide efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Establishing a one-stop shop makes it easier for advocates, healthcare providers, and State and local governments to access Federal funding, data on opioid abuse, and the best practices for treatment. Due to this crisis, we are losing 115 Americans a day across this Nation. The time to act is now. I urge my colleagues to support the passage of this legislation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentleman's comments. Again, it is important because, again, in the area I represent in the State of Ohio, we have a lot of unserved areas. When we talk about unserved and underserved areas, we want to make sure that, especially out in agricultural areas, that we get that area served because they are unserved at this time. Mr. Chairman, I ask for support of the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chairman, before I begin, I want to thank the gentleman from Texas, the chairman of the committee, for his hard work on the bill. I appreciate it. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the precision agriculture connectivity amendment. This bipartisan amendment offered by myself and my friend from Iowa (Mr. Loebsack) recognizes the need for broadband in rural areas, especially on agricultural lands. I represent the largest farm-income-producing district in the State of Ohio. Precision agriculture technologies and practices, like the use of IoT equipment, provide a great opportunity to improve U.S. farm productivity and sustainability. However, the lack of high-speed broadband in rural areas, especially in farmlands and ranchlands, hinder the use of advanced technologies in agriculture operations. My amendment seeks to improve broadband access to farmers and ranchers by establishing a task force for reviewing the connectivity and technology needs of precision agriculture. The task force would be created primarily by the Federal Communications Commission due to their expertise in broadband. However, we also recognize the value of the United States Department of Agriculture in this discussion. Therefore, the FCC would be required to work in collaboration with the USDA on gathering broadband data and for selecting the members of the task force. This task force would be required to identify current gaps in broadband coverage on agricultural lands and recommend policies that will promote their rapid, expanded deployment of broadband internet access service in unserved areas. Simply put, this amendment would help to address a significant need in agricultural lands. Without broadband, farmers cannot utilize precision agriculture that allows for the collection of field data in real time that can help with crop management. This type of technology helps farmers maximize resources to reduce costs and increase crop yields by up to 70 percent by 2050, helping to maintain America's long- term leadership in global food production. Furthermore, advanced machinery helps promote environmentally sustainable practices. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan amendment to help deploy much-needed broadband in unserved rural, agricultural areas. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Luke Beach of Haskins, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Luke's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of their lives. Luke brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Otsego High School in Tontogany, Ohio, Luke was a member of the National Honor Society, Future Farmers of America, and the high school debate team. Throughout high school, Luke served as captain of both the varsity basketball and varsity golf teams. Luke also ran his own business, Beach Lawn Care, volunteered with Honor Flight of Northwest Ohio and volunteered at Otsego youth sports camp. I am confident that Luke will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Luke Beach on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Luke will excel during his career at West Point, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Thomas Hilt of Whitehouse, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Thomas' offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Thomas brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, Thomas was a member of the National Honor Society, received the school's academic award, and participated in DECA and German Club. Throughout high school, Thomas participated in rowing, where he served as team captain and received his varsity letter and coaches award. I am confident that Thomas will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Thomas Hilt on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Thomas will excel during his career at West Point, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that McKenzie Mercer of Cygnet, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. McKenzie's offer of appointment permits her to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. McKenzie brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Elmwood High School in Bloomdale, Ohio, McKenzie was a member of the National Honor Society and was a 4.0 and perfect attendance award winner. She also participated in the pep, jazz and marching bands, student council, Future Farmers of America and was involved in student government. Throughout high school, McKenzie participated in volleyball and track, earning many honors and serving as captain of the track team. I am confident that McKenzie will carry the lessons of her student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating McKenzie Mercer on the offer of her appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that McKenzie will excel during her career at the Air Force Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to her as she begins her service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Ian Donahue of Sylvania, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Ian's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Ian brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Northview High School in Sylvania, Ohio, Ian served as President of the National Honors Society, and participated in student government, World Language Club, and Spanish Honors Society. Throughout high school, Ian participated in football and was captain for the lacrosse team, earning varsity letters in both sports. Ian was also involved in student council and Interact. I am confident that Ian will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Naval Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ian Donahue on his offer of appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Ian will excel during his career at the Naval Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Daniel Walton of Perrysburg, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Daniel's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Daniel brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Perrysburg High School in Perrysburg, Ohio, Daniel was a Summa Cum Laude scholar, Senior Class President, Student Council Representative, and a school tutor. Throughout high school, Daniel served as a team captain for football, wrestling, and rugby, earning multiple varsity letters. Daniel was also Vice President of DECA, volunteered at the Vision Soup Kitchen and Toledo YES Project, and participated in Buckeye Boys State. I am confident that Daniel will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Daniel Walton on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Daniel will excel during his career at West Point, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Cameron Smith of Maumee, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Cameron's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Cameron brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, Cameron served as Student Council treasurer, secretary for the Interact Club, participated in National Honors Society and is ranked fifth in his class. Throughout high school, Cameron performed in the All-Nationals Honor Band, Symphonic Winds, and OMEA All-State Honor Band. Cameron also served as an officer in the environmental club, is an Eagle Scout, and participated in the Spanish club. I am confident that Cameron will carry the lessons of his student and extra-curricular leadership to the Naval Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Cameron Smith on his offer of appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Cameron will excel during his career at Naval Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Austin Stoner of Toledo, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Austin's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Austin brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Whitmer High School in Toledo, Ohio, Austin participated in the National Honors Society, earned the T.R.A.C. All Academic Award, and earned the Top 15 Award. Throughout high school, Austin served as a captain of varsity baseball and participated in the 5 Minutes for Life and Ping Pong clubs. Austin also served as President of Student Council, Commander for the Pep Club, and a Math Honorary. I am confident that Austin will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Austin Stoner on his offer of appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Austin will excel during his career at the Air Force Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Genoa High School Wrestling Team for winning the Ohio School Athletic Association Division III Individual Tournament Team State Championship. The title completes the double as Genoa won the Dual Team Championship this season as well. The Comets posted a scored of 113.5 led by Junior Dylan D'Emilio who won an individual state title and finished the season 52-0. Wrestling tests the mettle of its competitors, and it takes grit, determination, and toughness to compete at a high level. These competitors deserve our recognition. The Genoa community should be proud of the team's accomplishments. Once again, congratulations to Coach Bob Bergman and the Comets on the state championship. Great job Genoa wrestling.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that David Mulligan of Sylvania, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. David's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. David brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Northview High School in Sylvania, Ohio, David served as secretary for the National Honors Society, and was active in leadership academy and LINK Crew. Throughout high school, David participated in recreational basketball, and was senior captain for both varsity cross country and varsity baseball. David is also involved with church youth group and the NASA Student Launch Team. I am confident that David will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating David Mulligan on his offer of appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that David will excel during his career at the Air Force Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Cole Ragan of Whitehouse, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Cole's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Cole brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Anthony Wayne High School in Whitehouse, Ohio, Cole was a member of the National Honor Society and 4.0 honor roll, as well as an academic letter winner. Throughout high school, Cole participated in football, wrestling, and track and field, earning many honors and serving as captain of the football team. I am confident that Cole will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Cole Ragan on the offer of his appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Cole will excel during his career at the Air Force Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Jenna Kill of Sylvania, Ohio has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Jenna's offer of appointment permits her to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2022. Attending one of our nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country, but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of a lifetime. Jenna brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2022. While attending Northview High School in Sylvania, Ohio, Jenna was a member of the National Honor Society and was ranked in the top five percent of her class. Throughout high school, Jenna participated in soccer, and was captain for both the cross country and track and field teams, earning varsity letters in all three sports. Jenna also served as a co-leader for the NASA Student Launch Team, was involved in leadership academy, and participated in competitions such as Team America Rocketry Contest, and S4 Satellite Rocketry Team. I am confident that Jenna will carry the lessons of her student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jenna Kill on her offer of appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available. I am positive that Jenna will excel during her career at the Air Force Academy, and I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to her as she begins her service to our Nation.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my legislation, H.R. 4227, the Vehicular Terrorism Prevention Act. This bipartisan legislation requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to assess the activities the Department is undertaking to combat the threat of vehicular terrorism and submit a strategy to Congress on its findings and recommendations. Over the past several years, I have been alarmed with the increased frequency that terrorists in Europe and around the world have used vehicles--oftentimes, rental vans or trucks--to commit heinous acts of violence. From Paris to Barcelona and Jerusalem to London, at least 138 people have been killed and countless others injured because of these attacks. With the October attack in New York City showing that these extremist groups will not hesitate to carry out the same attack on American soil, it is critical that the Department of Homeland Security is doing their due diligence regarding this threat. Mr. Speaker, this legislation would specifically require DHS to assess the activities the Department is undertaking to support emergency response providers and the private sector to prevent, mitigate, and respond to the threat of vehicular terrorism. Within 6 months of the bill's enactment, the Department must complete this assessment and submit to Congress a strategy that includes an examination of the current threat of vehicular terrorism, methods to improve information-sharing activities with emergency first responders and the private sector, and training activities the Department can undertake to prevent and prepare to respond to these attacks. The Secretary must also include any additional activities that DHS recommends to address the threat of vehicular terrorism. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chairman McCaul, Ranking Member Thompson, Representative Donovan, and the entire House Homeland Security Committee for their work in advancing this bill to the House floor. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join with me in taking the next step to addressing this dangerous threat by passing H.R. 4227.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Findlay, Ohio for being named the 2018 Top Micropolitan Community in the United States. Awarded by Site Selection magazine, Findlay has now received this recognition as the top city for business for four straight years. To qualify, a micropolitan city must have a population ranging from 10,000 to 50,000. Site Selection judged 575 of these cities on business growth and sustainable success. In totality, Findlay listed 21 projects that met Site Selection's criteria leading to its fourth straight first-place finish. It is a team effort top to bottom that has led the way to Findlay's consistent success. I commend Mayor Lydia Mihalik, the Findlay-Hancock County Economic Development office, the Hancock County Commissioners, and the entire community for everything they've done to top the charts once again. Mr. Speaker, the `Findlay Formula' has an established track record that meant to cultivate growth and prosperity for the community. With their business-friendly environment, I have no doubt that Findlay will be at the top again next year. Congratulations once again to Findlay for being named the country's No. 1 Micropolitan Community.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Genoa High School Comets for winning the Ohio School Athletic Association Division III Team Wrestling Championship. This title was the first team state championship of any kind in the school's history. Having placed runner-up at last year's championships, the number one seeded Comets defeated Massillon Tuslaw 40-20 in the final to secure the state title and cap off an undefeated season. These student-athletes gave it their all, and their community should be proud of them. Wrestling is a technical sport that requires attention to detail, endurance, and toughness. It's a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Genoa team and the coaching staff that they were able to achieve this success. Once again, congratulations to Coach Bob Bergman and the Comets on the state championship. Great job Genoa wrestling.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Ohio High School Athletic Association Division II Team Wrestling State Champion Wauseon Indians. After finishing runner up in 2016 and 2017, Wauseon topped Mentor Lake Catholic in the championship to capture the first team title of any sport in school history. Wauseon has a rich tradition in wrestling, winning the Northwest Ohio Athletic League twelve times. Under the tutelage of coach Mike Ritter, Wauseon was able to win the title by first going through Washington Court House and Canfield High School on the way to the finals. These student-athletes gave it their all, and the Wauseon community should be proud of them. Wrestling tests the mettle of its competitors, and it takes grit, determination, and toughness to compete at a high level. In addition to practice, student-athletes are asked to meet certain academic standards and exceed them as well. These competitors deserve our recognition. Once again, congratulations to Coach Mike Ritter and the rest of the Wauseon wrestling team on a job well done.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Ray Baum. I thank the chairman for having this tonight because I think it is very, very important to honor his life. I was recently asked when I was back home what I liked best about being a Member of Congress. It is always one of those questions I think people think about, well, you are going to think about all the things you do down here. It is not really about being a Member of Congress down here. It is about the people you get to know, the people you get to know at home, and it is also about the people you get to know here. There are a lot of times that you don't always get to meet someone like Ray, somebody who has that great public service instilled in him. You meet these thousands of people, but you always had some people that stand out; and that is Ray. If I could, I would like to quote what the chairman said in his release when Ray passed: ``Ray dedicated his life to public service, first as an elected official and then as an adviser on Capitol Hill. Our committee, the people of Oregon, and our country are better off because of Ray's selfless service. Ray will be deeply missed, but he will not be forgotten. The Energy and Commerce Committee will strive to honor Ray's legacy of decency and kindness through our work, and, more importantly, by following the example Ray set through the graciousness and honor he showed every day.'' You heard Chairman Shimkus say the same thing. You have to get things done around this place, and if you are always going to sit in one corner and fold your arms and say, ``I am not going to listen to anybody else,'' it is not going to get done. But that was not Ray. He reached out, as the chairman mentioned and as Chairman Shimkus also mentioned, that it is important to reach out to work with people. I think that it was demonstrated by the pieces of legislation that we got out. Last year, he was an instrumental part of working with me and getting out the SELF DRIVE Act. We have a lot of pieces of legislation that come through, but the staff kept track. They said that we had over 300 meetings with staff and with Members in getting that bill out. It was a bill that wasn't a Republican bill, and i wasn't a Democrat bill. It was a bill that everyone worked together on. I think it was important because Ray had a big hand in that. I sat through a lot of meetings, and the staff sat through a lot more than I did when you think about those 300. He was a guiding hand and a very calm hand to get that bill out. When you think about a piece of legislation of that magnitude, when that bill came up for a committee vote, and not only for the chairman's work, that bill went out 54-0, which is amazing for a bill of that size and that magnitude and what it meant. He was instrumental, I know when we sat down with our friends over in the Senate in an early meeting talking about what they would be doing, but he was very, very involved in it. But he was a very calming voice. I wasn't privileged to know Ray when he began his long and distinguished public career service out in Oregon, but, again, I got to know him through his work on the committee. One of the things that I think I can say is he was an incredible person to work with. He was a gentleman, and he took time to listen and to analyze a problem. Around this place, that doesn't happen all the time. Sometimes you jump out there first, and then you think: What am I going to say? But Ray was one of those individuals who really made sure that he was always prepared. He was ready to go forward, and he was willing to listen. I will never forget, years ago, I had a professor in college who said: You always remember that God gave you two ears and one mouth; if I have to explain that to you, you are going to have a hard time understanding what you have to do more of. But that was listening, and Ray listened. He always gave you a straight answer. That is always important because it is tough when you are working on legislation and you are working on something, and you have to get an answer from somebody, and they say: Well, let me think about that. But Ray wasn't that way. He would sit down with you. He would work with you. He would be up in my office; I would be down in his office. He was always there to listen. He was always giving a recommendation, and the end result was he was somebody who you could trust. I also know this, he had the respect of the Energy and Commerce Committee members. He also had the respect of the staff, Republicans and Democrats alike. He was kind, and he was thoughtful, too. Sometimes you hear staff say that there are folks around here who don't treat them very well. He wasn't one of those individuals. He is going to be missed; and it is not often that you are privileged to meet someone like him or to work with someone like him of his caliber and one who always believed in putting public service above self. To his wife and family, you are in my prayers. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Walden for this opportunity.

Mr. LATTA

Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my name be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 3524.