Blaine Luetkemeyer

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 2121, the S.A.F.E. Transitional Licensing Act of 2015, introduced by the gentleman from Ohio. (Mr. Stivers). H.R. 2121 would establish that a mortgage loan originator who is employed by a federally insured depository institution and who leaves to join a State-licensed mortgage company would have temporary authority to originate mortgages. The bill stipulates that, in order to qualify for this transitional license, the individual must have filed an application with the State to be a licensed loan originator. More simply, this bill allows flexibility to workers who are looking to make a career change. This bill does not allow for unregulated, unlicensed mortgage originators to have a free pass. The S.A.F.E. Transitional Licensing Act makes clear that the temporary license--good for a maximum of 120 days--can apply only to a registered loan originator. Further, H.R. 2121 stipulates that the originator must be registered with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, and be employed by a licensed and supervised mortgage lender, banker, or servicer. H.R. 2121 includes other safeguards that are important to point out. The bill makes clear that the temporary authority would automatically expire should the originator withdraw his or her application or if the State denies the application. This is a highly bipartisan bill that will ensure workers who originate mortgages at depository institutions are able to move to non- depository institutions with a minimal amount of work disruption. At the end of the day, this bill is about jobs. It is about streamlining the government processes to make sure that people can continue to put food on the table. Folks shouldn't be prevented from working for months at a time simply because they want to change jobs or employers. Our regulatory structure should foster not only consumer protection, but job growth and efficient marketplaces. The current licensing requirements do the exact opposite. I thank the gentleman from Ohio for his hard work on this legislation. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this commonsense, employee-friendly bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Stivers), a distinguished member of the Financial Services Committee.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, again, I thank the sponsor of the bill, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Stivers), as well as Ms. Sewell and Mrs. Beatty from the other side for their fine work and their support. I appreciate all of the work that was done. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4139) to amend the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to provide a temporary exemption for low-revenue issuers from certain auditor attestation requirements.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on this bill.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of H.R. 4139, the Fostering Innovation Act, introduced by the gentlewoman from Arizona (Ms. Sinema) and the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fitzpatrick). H.R. 4139 extends a narrow exemption to comply with section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act for emerging growth companies that would otherwise lose their exempt status at the end of a 5-year period allowed under current law. As such, H.R. 4139 is consistent with the bipartisan aims of the JOBS Act to eliminate the one-size-fits-all regulatory structure for public companies. Under Sarbanes-Oxley, or SOX, section 404(b) requires an independent and external assessment of a public company's internal controls over financial reporting. While important, this translates into significant legal and compliance costs, driving up an entity's accounting and auditing expenses. In fact, the costs to comply with section 404(b) have far exceeded the original estimates done by the SEC, and even a 2011 SEC study found that the average costs for companies can exceed $1 million annually. This burden disproportionately impacts small and emerging growth companies, such as biotech firms that are engaging in lifesaving research and development. My home State of Missouri alone has over 1,300 biotech companies that employ over 28,000 people who conduct groundbreaking research. Section 404(b)'s costs divert the resources of emerging growth companies to regulatory compliance costs, which harms the ability of those firms to compete in the global marketplace and to even invest in creating lifesaving treatments and technologies. Brian Hahn, the chief financial officer of GlycoMimetics, which is a small, public biotech company, testified at a subcommittee hearing on H.R. 4139 on December 2, 2015, that section 404(b) ``provides little- to-no insight into the health of an emerging biotech company--but is extremely costly for a pre-revenue innovator to comply with.'' Recognizing these issues, the JOBS Act created an exemption to these external control attestation requirements, which allows small companies to focus on growing their business, going public, and still comply with SOx's other provisions. Nevertheless, the smallest of public companies still struggle to comply with the significant costs stemming from SOx section 404(b). Despite claims to the contrary, H.R. 4139 is narrowly tailored to provide regulatory relief to the smallest of public companies, those with less than $50 million in annual revenue. This legislation provides those companies with an additional on-ramp for section 404(b) compliance. As Mr. Hahn further testified in the Financial Services Committee: ``Legislation like the Fostering Innovation Act will ensure that growing companies have the opportunity to be successful on the public market without being forced to siphon off innovation capital to spend on costly compliance burdens that do not inform emerging biotech investors.'' I thank Ms. Sinema and Mr. Fitzpatrick for their diligent work on the bill, which passed the Financial Services Committee by a broad bipartisan vote. I encourage my colleagues to provide this badly needed regulatory relief to our Nation's small innovative companies and join me in supporting H.R. 4139. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fitzpatrick), who is a distinguished member of the Financial Services Committee and chairs the Task Force to Investigate Terrorism Financing.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ms. Sinema and Mr. Fitzpatrick for their fine work on this piece of legislation, which basically is a commonsense piece of legislation to help a lot of our small, biotech companies to be able to do a better job of managing their own funds. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Kim Barks. She is the owner of Complete Truck & RV Repair and is receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Jack Heck Award from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. When Complete Truck & RV Repair opened as a family-run business in 2013, it had ten employees. Now, the shop is staffed by 22 employees and has been able to add Restoration, Fabrication, Auto & RV Detailing, and Towing Services. The Barks family also added another location for RV storage to continue serving their customers. To say that Complete Truck & RV Repair contributes to the St. Charles community would almost be an understatement. Kim and her father are passionate about animals and built a dog park for guests who come to service their vehicles. Kim is also a supporter of the organization Dogs on Duty, Five Acres Animal Shelter, and the Humane Society. Another part of Complete Truck & RV Repair's community outreach is its contribution to the St. Charles' Backstoppers. Kim's father has helped the Backstoppers raise money for over 15 years. Complete Truck & RV Repair is hosting the 1st Annual Backstoppers Summer Dance June 24th at the Machinists' Hall to continue this fundraising effort. The Barks and their repair business work year round to raise awareness for the Backstoppers. The business owns a fire truck, named Red. Red travels around town to various fire houses to promote awareness of the Backstoppers fund. Red also can be seen in various city parades. Complete Truck & RV Repair hires veterans and is part of the Hire Heroes Program. The business honors veterans by giving them a discount. It currently has five veterans employed on the Complete Truck & RV Repair staff. Complete Truck & RV Repair also gives Police Officers, EMS, and Firefighters a discount on services. I ask you to join me in recognizing Complete Truck & RV Repair for its accomplishment as the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Jack Heck Award.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Elliott Stipes. He is the owner of Green Clean Commercial and is receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award, in the Sustainability Category from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. Green Clean Commercial is a national company that joined the St. Charles community in 2015. Green Clean is a janitorial services company and currently employs 38 individuals locally. Green Clean strives for positive employee lifestyle through weekly recognition announced at weekly company culture meetings, employee of the month recognition, and annual recognition. There have been some difficulties for Green Clean, but it has overcome these difficulties and maintained consistency with its customers and employees. Throughout the recession, Green Clean was able to be successful by committing to flexibility and partnership with its customers. Green Clean has created a supportive workplace with recognition, training, leadership, and compensation. Green Clean is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and was awarded ``Best Janitorial Services Company'' for 2015. To improve energy efficiency, Green Clean uses LED lighting in all offices and additionally uses motion sensors for its lighting, which reduces energy consumption. Additionally, Green Clean uses green seal certified cleaning solutions. Green Clean sets the standard for its customers through implementing recycling programs for the Green Clean employees and for the employees of the businesses for which it is providing janitorial services. Another way Green Clean is sustainable is by providing its employees with drinking thermoses, which will in turn reduce water bottle waste. Green Clean is passionate about its community involvement and encourages its employees to also become involved with volunteering opportunities. Green Clean hosts a donation drive to support a local organization, ``Youth in Need.'' Additionally, Green Clean supports programs that are initiatives of its customers across the country. I ask you to join me in recognizing Green Clean Commercial for its accomplishment in the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Sustainability Category.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Keith Levy. He is the President of Royal Canin USA and is receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award, in the Manufacturing/ Industrial Category from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. Royal Canin USA is a global dog and cat food company which originated in France in 1968. In the United States, you'll find Royal Canin associates hard at work at the company's headquarters and manufacturing facilities located in St. Charles, Missouri. Royal Canin USA has created an inviting workplace for its employees with numerous incentives: family day for all associates to attend with their families, pet friendly offices where associates can bring their pets to work, take your sons and daughters to work day, and two off-leash dog parks outside its offices. Over the last year, Royal Canin USA has added 25 associates in the St. Charles office and 100 overall. It has expanded its office to add workspace for 90 new associates. Royal Canin USA honors the longstanding tradition of rewarding its employees for their dedication and work. Associates are eligible for bonuses and to be recognized by Royal Canin's ``Make a Difference Program.'' This program recognizes employees who have made a positive impact on the company. Royal Canin USA's dedication to the community is made evident by its involvement with numerous community leadership initiatives. Royal Canin provides dog food to the state's Puppies for Parole program, where offenders train shelter dogs. This training makes the dogs eligible for adoption, while positively impacting the inmates and offenders. Royal Canin also hosted an Advanced Puppies for Parole Gala, which was attended by the First Lady of Missouri. In addition, the dog food company donates food to a pet food bank called ``Rescue Bank.'' This bank distributes pet food to shelters in need across the country. Royal Canin USA recently held a local 5k run and walk with proceeds benefitting a local dog therapy association. I ask you to join me in recognizing Royal Canin USA for its accomplishment as the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Manufacturing/ Industrial Category.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Mrs. Shirley Drinkard. She will be celebrating her 100th Birthday on May 12, 2016. Shirley Drinkard was born in Argonia, Kansas in 1916. Shirley was one of five siblings and during her childhood, the family would go fishing every Saturday night. When Shirley was 23 years old, she moved to Fulton, MO. Shirley graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education from Wichita University. Later, Shirley finished out her education with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics and a Master's Degree in Economics, both received from the University of Missouri--Columbia. Shirley married Paul Drinkard, who was a WWII Veteran, when she was 30 years old, and they remained married for 35 years. Shirley and Paul had one son, Eddie Drinkard, one grandson, James Drinkard, and one great-granddaughter, Billie Drinkard. Shirley worked for the University of Missouri Extension in Columbia, Missouri. She was the home economics teacher and department coordinator for 37 years. The University of Missouri also had Shirley teach business finance to local organizations. Shirley always appreciated the opportunity to travel to numerous countries including: Italy, Canada, Spain, and Denmark. Shirley enjoys many hobbies which include: fishing, dancing, reading, playing cards and the piano. Over the years Shirley has continued to stay in contact with the University of Missouri Extension. I ask you to join me in recognizing Mrs. Drinkard on her 100th Birthday Celebration.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor constituents of mine, Zack and Brie Smithey. They are owners of Miss Aimee B's Tea Room & Gallery and are receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award, in the Service Category from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. There is historical significance as Miss Aimee B's Tea Room and Gallery is in the National Register of Historic Places. Miss Aimee B's Tea Room and Gallery (the Marten/Becker House) remained in the family until 1982 when Miss Aimee Marie Louise Becker bequeathed it to the St. Charles County Historical Society. In 1991, Sherry Pfander and Judy purchased the Marten-Becker House from the St. Charles County Historical Society to start a business selling local arts and crafts. In January 2014, locals Zack and Brie Smithey proudly purchased the wonderful Miss Aimee B's Tea Room & Gallery. Miss Aimee B's takes pride in displaying local artists and crafters work in its upstairs shops. Since the year 2014, Miss Aimee B's has increased sales by 20 percent. Zack and Brie also work to repurpose, rebuild, and preserve the historical energy of the house. This practice honors the City of St. Charles efforts to preserve its historical Main Street. Miss Aimee B's employees are dedicated, knowledgeable, and well respected. These employees are what make Miss Aimee B's an enjoyable place to visit. Employees of Miss Aimee B's are encouraged to spend time with their families and friends, deepen their faith, lead healthy lifestyles, be kind to others, and to always show warm hospitality. Miss Aimee B's is a proud contributor to the St. Charles Community. The house donates food, gift cards, and time to local galas, churches, animal shelters and families in need. In addition, Zack Smithey has raised thousands of dollars for local charities with his personal art pieces. Miss Aimee B's has also donated hundreds to local charities and holds charitable events for nonprofit organizations and individuals in need. I ask you to join me in recognizing Miss Aimee B's for its accomplishment in the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Service Category.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Kim Bark. She is the owner of Complete Truck & RV Repair and is receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--John Heck Award from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. When Complete Truck & RV Repair opened as a family-run business in 2013, it had ten employees. Now, the shop is staffed by 22 employees and has been able to add Restoration, Fabrication, Auto & RV Detailing, and Towing Services. The Barks family also added another location for RV storage to continue serving their customers. To say that Complete Truck & RV Repair contributes to the St. Charles community would almost be an understatement. Kim and her father are passionate about animals and built a dog park for guests who come to service their vehicles. Kim is also a supporter of the organization Dogs on Duty, Five Acres Animal Shelter, and the Humane Society. Another part of Complete Truck & RV Repair's community outreach is its contribution to the St. Charles' Backstoppers. Kim's father has helped the Backstoppers raise money for over 15 years. Complete Truck & RV Repair is hosting the 1st Annual Backstoppers Summer Dance June 24th at the Machinists' Hall to continue this fundraising effort. The Barks and their repair business work year round to raise awareness for the Backstoppers. The business owns a fire truck, named Red. Red travels around town to various fire houses to promote awareness of the Backstoppers fund. Red also can be seen in various city parades. Complete Truck & RV Repair hires veterans and is part of the Hire Heroes Program. The business honors veterans by giving them a discount. It currently has five veterans employed on the Complete Truck & RV Repair staff. Complete Truck & RV Repair also gives Police Officers, EMS, and Firefighters a discount on services. I ask you to join me in recognizing Complete Truck & RV Repair for its accomplishment as the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--John Heck Award.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor constituents of mine, David and Debby Spetnagel. They are owners of Fleet Feet Sports and are receiving the 2016 Employer of the Year Award, in the Retail Category from the City of St. Charles Economic Development Department. Fleet Feet Sports opened its doors on April 12, 1993 and since then has been successfully serving the community. Since the first store opening in 1993, five additional stores have been opened. In 2001, Fleet Feet Sports opened its Chesterfield location. In 2008, Fleet Feet Sports welcomed a new store in South St. Louis County. On Fleet Feet Sports' 20th anniversary, David and Debby Spetnagel opened another store in Des Peres. The most recent store openings were in Town & Country in 2014 and O'Fallon in 2015. Over the last several years, Fleet Feet Sports has maintained consistent sales while adding 24 new employees in 2015. Employees of Fleet Feet Sports are recognized throughout their time with the company by the owners, David and Debby Spetnagel. With this type of employee recognition, it cultivates the spirit of strong customer service which positively affects their business and creates continued successes. Fleet Feet Sports has faced many challenges over the years. Overcoming a very competitive retail and run specialty market and adapting to an ever-pressing e-commerce environment were two of the hardest struggles faced by owners, David and Debby Spetnagel. To overcome these challenges, Fleet Feet Sports has had to consistently seek better ways to recognize and serve their customers as well as keeping their website and digital offerings up-to-date. Fleet Feet Sports' dedication to the community is made evident by the various events it sponsors. The company hosts free social runs in the St. Charles area as well as Frontier Park. Throughout various donations of shoes and apparel, Fleet Feet Sports impacts numerous lives in the local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Fleet Feet Sports for its accomplishment as the 2016 Employer of the Year Award--Retail Category.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Lillie Ruth Barlow Lindsey. She will be celebrating her 80th Birthday on May 26, 2016. Lillie was born in Bay Springs, Mississippi on May 26, 1936. At age 10, Lillie's family moved to Laurel, Mississippi, where she remained until she married A.C. Lindsey in August of 1951. After they married, A.C. and Lillie moved to Kansas City, Missouri. They remained in Kansas City until 2006, when they moved to Wentzville, Missouri. A.C. and Lillie had eight children. From those eight children, they have 30 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. Lillie and A.C. were married for 63 years, until A.C.'s passing on January 14, 2014. In her retirement, Lillie focused on caring for her husband, A.C., throughout his battle with Alzheimer's disease. Lillie has always been a dedicated wife and mother. When her last child began junior high school, Lillie began working at Halls in Kansas City, Missouri where she worked until her retirement. Lillie enjoys sewing and has been an active member of her church throughout her life, during her time in Kansas City and currently in Wentzville, Missouri. I ask you to join me in celebrating Lillie Ruth Barlow Lindsey on her 80th Birthday.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Master-at-Arms 1st Class Carl S. Randolph. He will be retiring from the Navy on May 1, 2016 after 22 years of dedicated service to our nation. On July 10, 1995 Mr. Randolph joined the U.S. Navy and reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. After graduating from recruit training he attended Ships Serviceman Class A School where upon graduation, MA1 Randolph was assigned to the USS Russell DDG 59 in Pearl Harbor, HI. In 1996 and 1998, Randolph was deployed to the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch. During his time assigned to the USS Russell, Petty Officer Randolph received numerous awards which included: a Maritime Unit Commendation, a Navy Unit Commendation, and a Meritorious Service Medal. On March 20, 2000, MA1 Randolph reported to NTTC Pensacola, FL for Aviation Machinist Mate Class A School. After graduation, MA1 Randolph received orders and was then assigned to VF-211 at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. MA1 Randolph was assigned to the USS Stennis CVN 76 and was deployed to the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch. In August 10, 2001, MA1 Randolph was honorably discharged from active service duty to attend college. On December 18, 2004, MA1 Randolph graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, in Criminal Justice and a minor concentration in Sociology, from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. MA1 Randolph began his employment as a Federal Police Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Louis, Missouri, after graduation from college. MA1 Randolph was voluntarily mobilized to Bagram Afghanistan for a Detainee Operation mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom on October 15, 2007. During this deployment, MA1 Randolph earned his Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin from VAQ 134. MA1 Randolph had numerous responsibilities during his deployment including: cell guard, escort guard, segregation cell guard, and main floor NCO. MA1 Randolph was assigned to COMNAVFORKOREA Det D on February 7, 2012. Then on November 6, 2014, MA1 Randolph was assigned to NSWDG in Virginia Beach, VA. From there he was deployed to support AFRICOM and returned back to COMNAVFORKOREA Det D in November of 2015. Additionally, MA1 Randolph has completed numerous Navy schools: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor, Security Reaction Force Advanced, Non- Lethal Weapons Instructor, Anti-Terrorism Training Supervisor, Reserve Career Information, Beamhit Instructor, and Security Reaction Force Basic. Since September of 2009, MA1 Randolph has been employed as an Inspector for the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Protective Service. With this employment, MA1 Randolph oversees the law enforcement of all federal buildings in the states of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa. The primary assignment location for MA1 Randolph is the St. Louis, MO area. There are numerous professional schools that MA1 Randolph has graduated from; including: Department of Veterans Affairs Police Academy, Federal Protective Service Advance Individual Training Program, Department of Homeland Security Active Shooter Threat Instructor Training Program, Federal Protective Service Contract Officer Technical Representative, and the Federal Protective Service Electronic Control Device Instructor training. MA1 Randolph has received many personnel awards including: Letter of Commendation from Rear Admiral G. R. Jones Commander of Amphibious Forces U.S. Seventh Fleet, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Navy Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Award Ribbon, Afghanistan Service Medal, Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin, and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. With this retirement, MA1 Randolph can now spend more time with his family which includes: his wife Terri, 11-year-old son William, and 5- year-old daughter Katherine. I ask you to join me in recognizing MA1 Randolph on his retirement after 22 years of commitment to his country, community, and state.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. I thank the gentleman from Arkansas. We certainly are appreciative of all the remarks of my colleagues who are here this evening--and Mr. Hardy, who is following--with regard to this important issue and something that the Speaker is focusing on, which is poverty and upward mobility. Mr. Hill took time out of his schedule last year to invite me to his district. We were able to go down and visit with some of the residents in public housing units, and we had some great conversations with them. We also met with some community leaders there in Little Rock and discussed the underlying causes of poverty and those charged with identifying opportunities for people in their communities. I certainly appreciate the gentleman's commitment to this conversation. I know that he is patient about it. He has spent lots of time with it and is again, this evening, spending more time, so I congratulate him on that. This past fall, I had the honor of joining several of my colleagues in New Orleans, and we were examining the state of housing in New Orleans 10 years after Hurricane Katrina. We wanted to find out what the local housing authority had done right, what they had done wrong, what their problems, what their pitfalls, and what their barriers have been in trying to get things done because, basically, they had to start from scratch. Everybody saw the devastation of the hurricane, people living in houses that were devastated, if they were still standing at all, and so it was very interesting to visit that. We visited not just the sites, but the residents themselves. I will never forget the story of one of the ladies who lived in public housing there. She lived there all her life, lived in public housing all her life, and she was raising her children in public housing; but she had a goal that she was going to escape this public housing, and she was going to have her children escape public housing and someday own her own home. To her credit, that particular day, she was so tickled, I will never forget, the smile was from ear to ear. Her son had just received notification that he was approved for a loan to be able to go buy his first house. He had escaped public housing and had fulfilled her dream for not only herself, but her children as well. It was very encouraging, rewarding, and you could see the pride in her. I think that is the thing that we need to be looking for for all of the folks who don't want handouts, they want hands up. They want to be able to provide for themselves and lift themselves out of this. All we need to do is enable that to happen. So we must replicate that story, and I think that we can do that. I am proud to say that the House Republicans are leading the charge by doing this with this Speaker's Task Force on Poverty, Opportunity, and Upward Mobility, and with the hard work of Mr. Hill this evening putting this together to explain to people our positions, to identify new ways to promote independence and dignity. As chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance, we are a part of that task force. We are a part of this discussion that we are having, and I am glad to be a part of it as well. We must develop 21st century solutions for housing assistance with a higher purpose than simply perpetuating programs that marginalize American families. Over the past 16 months, as part of my duties as chairman, I have spent time meeting with public housing authorities from not just across my own State, but around the United States as well. One thing is clear: the status quo is not good enough. In our committee, we have also commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development by holding a series of hearings to examine whether or not HUD has fulfilled its mission of providing housing opportunities for those in need. Since fiscal year 2002, the Federal Government has given more than $550 billion to HUD, 60 percent of which, the annual funding goes to the Office of Public and Indian Housing. The Section 8 budget alone increased 71 percent between fiscal years 2002 and 2013. Unfortunately, for HUD, success isn't measured in the number of Federal programs or in dollars spent. I have had no indication from anyone that the growing need is anywhere close to being met. The reality is that the funding situation isn't getting better, so asking for more Federal dollars isn't the solution. It is time to roll up our sleeves and work together to build a stronger housing safety net. I am proud to work with my colleague and my friend, Mr. Cleaver from Missouri--two guys from the ``Show-Me'' State to show them how to get it done--and we passed H.R. 3700. I am the first to point out this legislation wouldn't necessarily change the world, and it won't end homelessness overnight or meet overwhelming need for affordable housing, but it does reform the outdated and duplicative housing policies and programs that haven't been touched in decades and represents a first step in a long journey to reforming our housing system. The bill passed the House by a vote of 427-0, and I encourage the Senate to pass it without further delay. Let me close by throwing a few more statistics and a couple of other little thoughts I have here as well out very quickly. I had the opportunity to visit with some folks from Great Britain; and when we talk about a housing problem or discuss housing in this country, we don't really know the size of the problem because, in Great Britain, they have 17 percent of their people living in public housing, where here it is about 4. The average age of the child living in Great Britain with their parents is 35. Holy Cow. This is not acceptable, but that is where they are with their housing programs in their country. In our country, 60 percent of the people that live in public housing are seniors and disabled. So a lot of times, let's remember, we are talking about the 40 percent whom we need to find ways to move them out, to empower them, to encourage them to be able to get out on their own, but the other 60 percent are folks that probably need to be in this particular subsidized situation where they can have an opportunity to live in their own home. I mentioned a while ago I was in New Orleans, and it was interesting to see that the part that they had rebuilt was interesting from the standpoint that it wasn't just building these tenements where people would be stacked on top of each other, but they were building communities. They would build mixed-use buildings, where you have not just people who would rent and be subsidized, but people who would rent and be able to afford to rent themselves, as well as people who owned the property. These mixed-use properties, by doing this, they were able to actually form communities. So I think there is a model there for us to look at and to begin to consider how to get these things done. Another thing, the PHA Administrator came by my office last week. He was in town, and we discussed, again, how to work with this 40 percent to get them to find ways to get out on their own and to enable them. Work requirements are something. He said: Hey, they work. If you give people the opportunity to work and perhaps transition from what they have, as Mr. Reed talked about a while ago, I believe it was, this welfare cliff, if you can find a way to sort of feather that thing so that they can slowly transition off, there are lots of folks who want to be able to move from subsidized apartments to their own home, to owning their own home. I think, at the end of the day, we in Congress need to find a way to get our economy going because the best way to solve this whole problem is with a job. If people have a job, a good-paying job, they can afford to go out and begin to rent on their own and then, hopefully, be able to, at some point, own on their own. That should be the dream for everyone, like this lady, a while ago, I was talking about from New Orleans. That was her dream. That is the dream of most people in this country. If that is the case, we need to find a way to do that, and the best way is to improve our economy so they have jobs to be able to pay that. At the end of the day, I think we need to remember that we want people to have not just a place where they can live, but where they can have a life. I think if that is our goal, we will keep our priorities in perspective, and we will be able to do the job of helping our citizens, our constituents, and the folks of this great country. Mr. Speaker, I thank, again, the gentleman from Arkansas for his great work on this and having me be a part of it this evening.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Master of Arms 1st Class Carl S. Randolph. He will be retiring from the Navy on May 1, 2016 after 22 years of dedicated service to our nation. On July 10, 1995 Mr. Randolph joined the U.S. Navy and reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. After graduating from recruit training he attended Ships Serviceman Class A School where upon graduation, MA1 Randolph was assigned to the USS Russell DDG 59 in Pearl Harbor, HI. In 1996 and 1998, Randolph was deployed to the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch. During his time assigned to the USS Russell, Petty Office Randolph received numerous awards which included: a Maritime Unit Commendation, a Navy Unit Commendation, and a Meritorious Service Medal. On March 20, 2000, MA1 Randolph reported to NTTC Pensacola, FL for Aviation Machinist Mate Class A School. After graduation, MA1 Randolph received orders and was then assigned to VF-211 at NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach, VA. MA1 Randolph was assigned to the USS Stennis CVN 76 and was deployed to the Northern Arabian Gulf in support of Operation Northern Watch. In August 10, 2001, MA1 Randolph was honorably discharged from active service duty to attend college. On December 18, 2004, MA1 Randolph graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree, in Criminal Justice and a minor concentration in Sociology, from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. MA1 Randolph began his employment as a Federal Police Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs in St. Louis, Missouri, after graduation from college. MA1 Randolph was voluntarily mobilized to Bagram Afghanistan for a Detainee Operation mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom on October 15, 2007. During this deployment, MA1 Randolph earned his Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin from VAQ 134. MA1 Randolph had numerous responsibilities during his deployment including: cell guard, escort guard, segregation cell guard, and main floor NCO. MA1 Randolph was assigned to COMNAVFORKOREA Det D on February 7, 2012. Then on November 6, 2014, MA1 Randolph was assigned to NSWDG in Virginia Beach, VA. From there he was deployed to support AFRICOM and returned back to COMNAVFORKOREA Det D in November of 2015. Additionally, MA1 Randolph has completed numerous Navy schools: Small Arms Marksmanship Instructor, Security Reaction Force Advanced, Non- Lethal Weapons Instructor, Anti-Terrorism Training Supervisor, Reserve Career Information, Beamhit Instructor, and Security Reaction Force Basic. Since September of 2009, MA1 Randolph has been employed as an Inspector for the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Protective Service. With this employment, MA1 Randolph oversees the law enforcement of all federal buildings in the states of Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa. The primary assignment location for MA1 Randolph is the St. Louis, MO area. There are numerous professional schools that MA1 Randolph has graduated from; including: Department of Veterans Affairs Police Academy, Federal Protective Service Advance Individual Training Program, Department of Homeland Security Active Shooter Threat Instructor Training Program, Federal Protective Service Contract Officer Technical Representative, and the Federal Protective Service Electronic Control Device Instructor training. MA1 Randolph has received many personnel awards including: Letter of Commendation from Rear Admiral G. R. Jones Commander of Amphibious Forces U.S. Seventh Fleet, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Navy Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Award Ribbon, Afghanistan Service Medal, Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist Pin, and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. With this retirement, MA1 Randolph can now spend more time with his family which includes: his wife Terri, 11-year-old son William, and 5- year-old daughter Katherine. I ask you to join me in recognizing MA1 Randolph on his retirement after 22 years of commitment to his country, community, and state.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, today, the House will consider H.R. 3791, legislation to raise the consolidated asset threshold under the Federal Reserve's small bank holding company policy statement. To say that the current regulatory environment presents challenges for small financial institutions would be a drastic understatement. Today, regulators require more and more from community-based institutions in terms of both regulatory oversight and capital requirements. Mrs. Love's bill seeks to alleviate some of the pressures that are facing our community banks. Small bank and thrift holding companies confront unique challenges with regard to capital formation, which is of particular concern at a time when regulators are demanding more capital. In understanding these challenges, the Fed has recognized that small banks have limited access to equity financing. The Federal Reserve's small bank holding company policy statement gives relief from certain capital guidelines and requirements, making it easier for a community bank to raise capital and issue debt and to make acquisitions and form new banks and thrift holding companies. Our Nation's smallest banks have faced significant recession, consolidation, and an alarming number of bank failures. By increasing the threshold in the Fed's policy statement from $1 billion to $5 billion, we have the opportunity to help an additional 400 true community banks. I know that the last speaker was concerned about 89 percent of the banks being already under this policy, but we are talking about 400 more communities that we can help to be able to have access to a regular stream of credit, rather than have to have increased costs and also bear restricted services from those banks. H.R. 3791 will go a long way in ensuring that our Nation's smallest institutions are able to grow stronger and continue to serve their communities. I want to thank Mrs. Love for her leadership on this issue. I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the bill.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jarrett Jacques for his first place win in the 2016 Class 2, 138 pound weight class, Missouri State Wrestling Championship. Jarrett and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to Owensville High school and their local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Jarrett for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jared Rennick for his first place win in the 2016 Class 3, 195 pound weight class, Missouri State Wrestling Championship. Jared and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to Washington High School and their local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Jared for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Alec Hagan for his first place win in the 2016 Class 4, 138 pound weight class, Missouri State Wrestling Championship. Alec and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to Eureka High School and their local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Alec for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Josh McClure for his first place win in the 2016 Class 2, 145 pound weight class, Missouri State Wrestling Championship. Josh and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to Fulton High School and their local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Josh for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jackson Berck for his first place win in the 2016 Class 4, 195 pound weight class, Missouri State Wrestling Championship. Jackson and his coach should be commended for all of their hard work throughout this past year and for bringing home the state championship to Francis Howell Central High School and their local community. I ask you to join me in recognizing Jackson for a job well done.