Michelle Lujan Grisham

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I am opposed to the bill.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, this is the final amendment to the bill, which will not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage, as amended. Mr. Speaker, we have heard passionate arguments in support of and in opposition to this bill. We have heard Members argue that this bill is needed to prevent the Obama administration's overreach on issues such as immigration and health care. Conversely, we have heard Members note that the Republican leadership has refused to pass comprehensive immigration reform, refused to raise the minimum wage, and refused to compromise on a budget until they had shut down the Federal Government. These Members argue that this has forced the President to act within his constitutional authority to faithfully execute the law. That sharp rhetoric and disagreement is a result of the political realities that we find ourselves in today, and it reflects Congress's failure to work together and solve problems on behalf of the American people. I oppose the underlying bill, but I more strongly oppose the gridlock that has consumed this Congress and is leading it to become the most unproductive Congress and uncompromising Congress in the history of the United States. I believe that we can move past that today by coming together and supporting my amendment, which would address significant national security concerns raised by this legislation. My amendment would ensure that the bill's requirement that the executive branch explain why it prioritizes resources would not impact or expose critical national security and foreign policy interests, positions, or strategies to terrorists, drug cartels, and foreign enemies of the United States. Mr. Speaker, Sandia National Laboratories and Los Alamos National Laboratory are located in my home State of New Mexico. These laboratories ensure the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of the Nation's nuclear deterrent. The experiments and tests that they conduct are at the cutting edge of science and human understanding. They work every day to study, analyze, solve, and prepare for emerging and potential national security threats, contingencies, and risks. They help inform our Nation's defense and foreign policy decisionmakers on how to confront the increasingly complex dangers that our Nation faces. I am sure there is not one Member of this body that would want the sensitive national security work conducted at the National Laboratories and other government agencies to be revealed to terrorists, to drug cartels and foreign enemies. But that is the risk that all of us will bear if we pass this bill today with this current broad language. This bill requires the Attorney General to monitor every executive branch agency and every Federal officer who issues a formal or informal policy that refrains from enforcing any Federal statute, rule, regulation, program or policy. So let me say that again: it would require the Attorney General to monitor every Federal officer's alleged non-enforcement of any Federal statute, rule, regulation, program, or policy. The language would include Federal officials who are making decisions on national security concerns and interests, based on information and assistance supplied, in many cases, by the national labs in my home State. This could put the Attorney General in the dangerous position of choosing between keeping strategic foreign policy positions and information from foreign enemies, and complying with the requirements of this legislation. This would, undoubtedly, lead to litigation, court cases, and appeals, costing the American government embarrassing legal battles and leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. That time and money is better spent on the activity that these national security agencies are intended to conduct: providing for the safety of the American people. It just doesn't make sense to impose costly reporting requirements on activities that could potentially hurt national security interests. You wouldn't require a general to reveal his strategy and tactics before he goes into battle. Mr. Speaker, we came together just last week to pass an aid package for Ukraine to address national security concerns due to recent Russian aggression. We passed that bill on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis. Leaders of both parties came together in solidarity. We can do that again today with the adoption of this amendment, which ensures that nothing in this bill adversely impacts our Nation's security. I want to be clear. The adoption of this amendment will not prevent the passage of the underlying bill. If adopted, it will be incorporated into the bill and will be immediately voted upon. Although we may all disagree on the need for the underlying bill, we have an opportunity to stand united and support our Nation's vital policy and foreign policy goals. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this final amendment. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Jason Blankenship, a constituent who was tragically taken from us last fall. A Texan by birth, Jason made Albuquerque his home. For over ten years, Jason gave back to the community as a staff member at the University of New Mexico, including several years in Human Resources and scientific research. A Ph.D. by education, Jason most recently put his talents to work at UNM's Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse and Addictions, where he served as research scientist and member of a team advancing the field of study of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. This was more than just a job to Jason. He was passionate about his research and truly believed in its ability to improve the lives of those suffering from these diseases. Even though he was engaged in such important work at UNM, Jason always found time to give back to the Albuquerque community, most notably through the Make-a-Wish Foundation where he took great pride in being a ``wish granter'' to children with tragic illnesses. He was loved by all for his wonderful personality, his thoughtfulness, his dedication, self-discipline and loyalty. Colleagues and fellow researchers remember Jason as kind, generous and highly skilled. Jason truly believed that the results of his research could positively impact the world around him. At just 43 years old, Jason was taken from us far too soon. Mr. Speaker, may the life of Dr. Jason Blankenship serve as an inspiration to us all as we work to improve not just ourselves but the community around us.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, Federal law states that social welfare groups must exclusively promote social welfare. Social welfare includes activities like early childhood education, environmental protection, or veterans' assistance, not partisan political campaign activity. Now, there is an important book on the House floor, and it is a dictionary. We have that book here because this is a lawmaking institution, and the precise definition of words is incredibly important. Now, last time I looked up the word ``exclusively,'' it meant everything, excluding everything else, solely, or only. However, the IRS must have found an alternative definition for exclusively when it issued a regulation allowing social welfare organizations to only primarily promote social welfare. This contradiction between Federal law and IRS regulation has allowed these groups to spend over a quarter-billion dollars on political campaign activity, not their social welfare mission, while keeping their donors secret. I urge my colleagues simply to vote against the bill and let the IRS move forward with this proposed regulation to correct this. ``Exclusively'' should mean exclusively.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Madam Speaker, I also seek unanimous consent to insert my statement into the Record in support of extending unemployment insurance for 1.6 million Americans, including nearly 7,500 New Mexico job seekers, instead of this radical Republican assault on women's health care rights.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, while other regions in the U.S. have recently encountered super storms and experienced catastrophic flooding, the southwest has continued to endure shortages in available water resources. Mounting pressures, created by persistent drought and a rapidly growing population, have put additional strains on the area's water resources. For states in this region, such as my home state of New Mexico, it is very clear that water is not a commodity to be taken for granted; instead it must be considered the most important natural resource, essential for the survival of the environment, households, businesses and quality of life. My fellow members of the New Mexico Congressional Delegation and Congressional colleagues in the Southwestern States share my commitment to help communities facing drought-like conditions; together we are developing ideas and support for legislation that would promote innovation in water efficiency research and promote job creation in water infrastructure and conservation. New Mexico has abundant brackish water resources, it is reported that the state has approximately 15.4 billion acre feet, which is enough to sustain a population of three million for 300 years. In its current state, brackish water is useless and undrinkable but once it is pumped up, desalinated, and put to use, it can be added incrementally to our dwindling supplies of lakes, rivers and streams. Our communities could greatly benefit from investments in desalinization technology, which would activate our brackish water resources and create a new water supply for our municipalities, businesses and industries. I have visited international communities with fewer available water resources at their discretion, but they have flourished by employing new technology to better manage their limited water resources. New Mexico should follow this example. In my discussions with water experts and researchers, they have identified areas where New Mexico can take immediate action to better manage our existing water resources. Investing in new irrigation methods can save about 40 percent of water being applied to the fields. Providing more funding and technical assistance for the rehabilitation of old water infrastructure can conserve water by eliminating leaks while also creating more jobs for New Mexicans. New Mexico can and should be the next innovation hub for water management technology. But in order to achieve this, we have to continue forming partnerships between the public, government, and the private sector. We also have to continue investing in water technology research initiatives that will show us how to better manage existing water resources and will allow us to unlock alternative new water resources. Mr. Speaker, I eagerly anticipate the input from my constituents and colleagues as we set a dynamic course that will demonstrate to the region, the country and the world that New Mexico can respond to adversity and become a leader in water resources management.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, in Western States like New Mexico, where we continue to endure severe drought, it has become clear that water is a resource that can no longer be taken for granted. Instead, we must recognize just how essential it is for households, for businesses, for the environment, for jobs, for life, and we must rise to the challenge because New Mexico can and should be the next innovation hub for water management technology. New Mexico is reported to have approximately 15.4 billion acre feet of brackish water. That is enough to sustain 3 million people for 300 years. Our communities could greatly benefit from investments in desalination technology, which would create a new water supply for our municipalities, businesses and industry, while also leading to more jobs and more economic development. Mr. Speaker, we must continue investing in water technology initiatives, not only to better manage existing water resources but to unlock alternative water resources. I eagerly anticipate the input from my constituents and colleagues as we set a dynamic course that will demonstrate to the region, to the country, and the world that New Mexico can respond to adversity and become a leader in water resources management.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the University of New Mexico and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at the University of New Mexico for their dedication to achieving health justice. This September, the University of New Mexico hosted the Congressional Tri-Caucus Health Disparities conference titled ``Practices and Policies That Promote Health Justice''. The summit brought together local and national experts, leaders, policymakers, and advocates for a comprehensive discussion on the status of health justice. The Tri-Caucus health summit grew out of the need to move forward the discussion on health disparities in Washington and around the nation. The 2013 Health Disparities Summit has set a new standard for this discussion. Thanks to the efforts of the conference planning committee, this summit was the first to include Native American speakers and perspectives, a contribution that sets an important precedent for future summits. Hosted by the University of New Mexico, under the leadership of President Robert G. Frank and Chancellor for Health Sciences Paul B. Roth, and coordinated by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at UNM, led by Director Gabriel Sanchez, the summit provided my Tri-Caucus colleagues and myself with the most relevant and groundbreaking research on health disparities, including in-depth discussions on the serious reality of racial and ethnic health disparities. The RWJF Center for Health Policy at the University of New Mexico is a research and training institute whose mission is to increase the diversity of health policy leaders who are trained in the social and behavioral sciences and nursing. One of the ways they accomplish this is through their doctoral fellow program, which nurtures promising researchers who are dedicated to social justice and the elimination of health disparities. Over the course of the conference, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting with several RWJF doctoral fellows whose dedication and passion for achieving health equity helped me return to Washington reenergized to continue working toward health equity. It is meeting people like the RWJF research faculty and their doctoral fellows that gives me hope that we will continue to gain traction in the movement to eliminate health inequalities and achieve health justice. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have the privilege of representing my alma mater in Congress. As the only Hispanic-Serving Institution in the United States that is classified as a Carnegie Research University with Very High Activity, UNM is at the forefront of education and groundbreaking research, which contributes to a more just and equitable society. The University of New Mexico has taken an active role in working to eliminate health disparities and the RWJF Center for Health Policy is leading this charge. I would like to congratulate the University of New Mexico on their successful conference and for their dedication to achieving health justice.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, November is Native American Heritage Month, and I rise today to honor the many contributions that Native Americans have made--and continue to make--to our nation's proud history and culture. Earlier today, we awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to 25 tribes whose members served as Code Talkers during World War I and World War II, including the Pueblo of Acoma, which is one of 22 Native American tribes that call New Mexico home. The Pueblo of Acoma has been in existence for over 800 years and their original village, known as ``Sky City,'' sits atop a breathtaking mesa west of Albuquerque. To commemorate the Pueblo of Acoma's service, the United States Mint has produced a specially-designed gold coin. One side depicts Code Talkers carrying out communications tasks, while the other side features the Pueblo of Acoma flag. The Code Talkers proudly served our country with great honor and distinction. They transmitted vital information during some of the most dangerous battles, including every assault the Marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945. Major Howard Connor, 5th Marine Division signal officer, had six code talkers working around-the-clock during the first two days of the Battle of Iwo Jima. He said if it weren't for the Code Talkers, ``the Marines would never have taken Iwo Jima.'' Without the Code Talkers, the World Wars would have lasted longer and America would have suffered many more casualties. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that the Pueblo of Acoma and the other Code Talker tribes are officially getting the thanks and recognition they deserve from a very grateful nation.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, November is Native American Heritage Month, and I rise today to honor the many contributions that Native Americans have made and continue to make to our Nation's proud history and culture. Earlier today, we awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to 26 tribes whose members served as code talkers during World War II and World War I, including the Pueblo of Acoma, which is one of 22 Native tribes that call New Mexico home. At a later date, we will honor seven more code talker tribes, including another from New Mexico, the Pueblo of Laguna. The code talkers proudly served our country with great honor and distinction. They transmitted vital information during some of the most dangerous battles, including every assault the marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945. Without the code talkers, the world wars would have lasted longer and America would have suffered many more casualties. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that the Pueblos of Acoma and Laguna and the other code talker tribes are officially getting the thanks and recognition they deserve from a very grateful Nation.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, on Veterans Day, I had the honor of speaking at a veterans ceremony in Albuquerque, where I was reminded of our solemn responsibility that we have as lawmakers to do everything we can do to stand up for those who stand up for us. That is why last month I introduced the Veterans' Independent Living Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation that will help disabled veterans live independently and participate in family and community life. Currently, only 2,700 veterans in the entire country can enroll in the VA's highly successful Independent Living Program each year. When you compare that to the 2.6 million veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars alone, it is clear that this number is far too low, preventing veterans from getting the services and support they need. My bill, which has both Democratic and Republican cosponsors, along with the support of a dozen different veterans and health organizations, would remove this arbitrary cap so that every veteran who can participate in it would benefit from the Independent Living Program. Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to fulfill its responsibility to our Nation's veterans and their families and take up this commonsense, bipartisan legislation.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and thank the brave men and women in law enforcement who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. In the past week alone, seven law enforcement officials in New Mexico have been shot and wounded. It is a pattern of senseless violence that has become all too familiar in this Nation. On Saturday, in Albuquerque, a man armed with an assault rifle and a bulletproof vest ambushed officers, stole a police cruiser, and led them on a dangerous chase. Three Albuquerque police officers and a Bernalillo County sheriff's deputy were shot. Thankfully, they are all expected to make a full recovery. But from that terrifying situation, stories of immense heroism and courage emerged. Officers sprang into action to resolve the situation quickly, prevent more harm, and help their brothers and sisters who had been shot; firefighters from a nearby station ran into danger to help the injured; and New Mexicans have stepped up to donate thousands of dollars to help the officers and their families during this difficult time. To the first responders in New Mexico and all over the Nation, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 568 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues today and ask unanimous consent that the House immediately bring up the Senate amendment to H.J. Res. 59, to open the government and go to conference on a budget so that we end the Republican shutdown immediately.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Thank you very much to my friend and colleague from California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to draw attention to the hard work of the men and women at New Mexico's National Labs who protect our Nation's security and help grow our economy. Sandia National Labs in my district is home to 9,000 of those dedicated public servants. These are the best and brightest physicists, chemists, mathematicians, engineers, and technicians. They have chosen to serve our country instead of taking more lucrative jobs in the private sector because they are passionate about the lab's mission. Sandia is a national security asset that uses technology to find solutions to the most challenging problems that threaten our Nation. Their work supports numerous Federal, State, and local government agencies, companies, and organizations. During the BP oil spill, Sandia employees were called in to help cap the well. The work they do is absolutely remarkable. Since 1976, Sandia has received 101 coveted research and development 100 awards, often referred to as the ``Oscars of invention'' or the ``Nobel prizes of technology.'' While New Mexico's National Labs have been able to use carryover funds to stay open during the shutdown for the past 11 days, that money is quickly running out. Within the last week, employees at both Sandia and Los Alamos National Labs received letters informing them that they would face furloughs if the government doesn't reopen soon. Despite the fact that they play a crucial role in our Nation's security, the employees at New Mexico's National Labs are technically not Federal employees. As a result, the legislation we passed to provide back pay to furloughed Federal employees, which I was proud to support, unfortunately does not protect employees at these labs. Earlier this week, Congressman Lujan and I, along with Senators Udall and Heinrich, sent a letter to Energy Secretary Moniz requesting that he allow the labs to use their funding to back pay any employees furloughed because of the shutdown. I remain hopeful that the furloughs can be avoided because I have heard stories about the damage that they can do, and I have seen firsthand the damaging and devastating effect that the other Federal furloughed employees and their families have suffered in Albuquerque, my district, and the entire State of New Mexico. In fact, last Sunday in Albuquerque, I hosted a roundtable meeting with lab employees, furloughed Federal employees, and members of the business community. They told me that any missed or delayed paychecks would prevent them from paying their mortgage payments, household utility bills, car loan payments, and credit cards on time. But they are not just worried about their pay; they are also worried about their careers. Lab employees who hold security clearances are in danger of losing their clearances if their credit scores are impacted because they cannot pay their bills. After the meeting, I reached out to community partners to see if they would be able to help us in any way. Several credit unions, banks, utility providers, and other community partners reached out because they all want to help. If nonprofits in the business community can step up, then it is time for Congress to step up too. We need to do our job, we need to pass a funding bill to keep New Mexico's National Labs open. National Labs should not be forced to operate under the threat of shutting down just because a few dozen reckless Tea Party Republicans decided that destroying the Affordable Care Act was more important than keeping the government open. New Mexico's National Labs deserve and require the certainty and stability of a full funding bill and so does the rest of the country. We need to vote on the Senate passed clean funding compromise right now. I thank the gentleman from California for his leadership in protecting our national security interests and the labs in my home State.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, it is now day 8 of House Republicans' reckless, irresponsible government shutdown. In that time, America has been demanding to hear one reasonable, responsible proposal from House Republicans about how they plan to reopen the U.S. Government. While House Republicans refuse to capitulate, New Mexicans are still hurting. They're hurting because one radical faction of one party in the House stands in the way, holding the entire Congress and the entire country hostage. First, this band of radicals forced a government shutdown just to get its way. They have caused significant economic harm and are wasting hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars every day. These are the same Republicans who promised fiscal responsibility. Now they're dangerously close to forcing an economic shutdown by threatening a catastrophic debt default if they don't get what they want. The problem? They don't even know what they want. As my Republican colleague from Indiana said last week: We have to get something out of this, and I don't know what that even is. As Speaker Boehner admitted the other day, he committed to Senate leadership that he would support the very same bill--a clean continuing resolution--for which he now refuses a vote on the floor. On Sunday, I was back in Albuquerque, meeting with Federal employees who have been furloughed. I heard heartbreaking stories of families who say that because of the shutdown, they're worried about paying their mortgages and utility payments and car loans and credit card bills. That's what they're concerned about. That's what keeps them up at night. I heard from a civilian air traffic controller at Kirtland Air Force Base who was worried about the safety of the airmen because he's not allowed to work. Federal employees are demoralized and feel abandoned. They don't understand why they are being blamed for House Republicans' failure to pass a clean funding compromise. But in a 2\1/2\-hour meeting, not one of the furloughed New Mexicans told me he wants to see the Affordable Care Act repealed. Not one. I think that shows how far removed from reality House Republicans are. They're willing to continue harming hardworking, innocent Americans because of their obsession with destroying the Affordable Care Act. Mr. Speaker, this is reckless behavior. As this shutdown carries on into week 2, we keep learning of more negative impacts. Sandia National Labs, one of the largest employers in my district, has started notifying its more than 10,000 employees that they are likely to experience furloughs if the government doesn't reopen soon. That will have an absolutely devastating ripple effect on our local economy that we may never recover from. Instead of voting to end the shutdown, House Republicans have wasted time with false and misleading attempts to reopen the government bit by bit. After all, they didn't shut down the government piece by piece, so we shouldn't open it that way either. The one bill that House Republican leadership should be bringing to the House floor today is the Senate-passed, clean funding compromise, which would go directly to the President and immediately open up the entire government for all New Mexicans and Americans. We know that there are enough votes right now to pass a clean funding compromise. So why won't the Republican leadership allow a vote on it? I understand that some of my Republican colleagues say part of the reason they got elected was because they pledged to dismantle the Affordable Care Act. We were all sent here to represent our constituents. I know that. I'm here to represent constituents who are being hammered by the sequester. I've said many times in this Chamber that we need to immediately replace the sequester with a balanced approach to deficit reduction, but I'm not prepared to keep the government shut down because of it, inflicting further harm on people, not only in my district, but around the country. In spite of the damaging effect the sequestration continues to have on my State, I am prepared to vote right now for a temporary compromise bill that funds the government at sequester levels. I am prepared to vote for it as is virtually every Democrat in the House. The Senate has already passed it. The President says he'll sign it immediately. We want to get rid of the sequester, but we're willing to vote for a compromised funding bill at sequester levels, and I'll tell you why-- because, at this time, it's a reasonable path forward. So to my Republican friends who don't like the Affordable Care Act, here's a proposal for you: let's reopen the government now with a clean funding bill. Let's put all the furloughed Federal employees back to work. Then we can work together to determine what parts of the Affordable Care Act work well and which parts need to be addressed. After a reasonable amount of time, we can make the necessary adjustments to the law. That's how you effectively represent your constituents who still have serious concerns about the Affordable Care Act. That's a reasonable path forward. Mr. Speaker, let's reopen government right now. Then let's work together on a long-term solution that addresses the serious and significant fiscal issues facing our Nation today.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor former New Mexico State Senator Timothy Z. Jennings, who is being recognized with the prestigious Heritage Award by the Historical Society of Southeast New Mexico. A lifelong resident of Roswell, few have done more for their community and the entire state than Timothy Z. Jennings. The Society is holding its 32nd Anniversary Heritage Dinner on October 8 in Roswell to celebrate the rich history of Southeast New Mexico. Each year, the Society, which dates back to 1907, honors a member of the community with the Heritage Award. This year's award will be presented to Timothy Z. Jennings in recognition of his many years of dedicated service to the community and the State of New Mexico. Timothy Z. Jennings, the son of James T. and Francis Jennings, was born, raised and still lives in Roswell. His father, James, was a prominent local attorney and his mother, Francis, is a longtime member of the Historical Society of Southeast New Mexico. He graduated from New Mexico Military Institute, earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Creighton University in Nebraska and took courses in agriculture at New Mexico State University. He continues to operate a sheep ranch outside of Roswell. Timothy Z. Jennings was first elected to the Chaves County Commission in 1975. After serving for four years, he was elected to the New Mexico Senate, where he represented his constituents with distinction for 33 years, becoming the second-longest-serving member in history. He served in several leadership posts, including Majority and Minority Whip, Majority Floor Leader and Senate President Pro Tempore. He was respected as a bipartisan leader and a champion for persons with developmental disabilities. Timothy Z. Jennings and his late wife, Patty, were passionate supporters of cancer research and strong advocates for cancer patients and their families. He continues that passion in memory of Patty. For his efforts on behalf of New Mexicans, Timothy Z. Jennings received the Outstanding Leadership Award from New Mexico State University, the Friend of the Profession award from the New Mexico Society of Certified Public Accountants, the Soaring Eagle Award from the New Mexico Association of Counties, honorary membership from the New Mexico Medical Society, and was honored for his commitment and support in the battle against cancer from the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, in addition to numerous other awards. After leaving the Legislature, Timothy Z. Jennings was appointed to a prestigious position on the New Mexico State Investment Council. He has also kept busy on the ranch, serving as fire chief for the volunteer fire department near his home and spending time with his children: Katherine and husband Josh Stewart, Elliot Ikard and wife Melanie, Courtney Ikard, Zeph Jennings, Zach Jennings and grandson Keegan Ikard.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor New Mexico resident Paul Herzog and thank him for his service as he prepares to retire as the Chief Executive Officer at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces. I want to acknowledge the innovation and hard work of a true professional who successfully guided Memorial Medical Center during the past decade. I understand and appreciate the challenges of running a hospital, particularly during an era of drastic changes in the health care industry. Paul Herzog not only overcame those challenges, he also positioned Memorial Medical Center to succeed and provide the best possible care to the community--a standard that should be set for all hospitals. Paul Herzog has 40 years of experience in the health care industry. He previously led the Albuquerque Regional Medical Center in Albuquerque before taking over as Chief Executive Officer at Memorial Medical Center in Las Cruces. During his tenure, Paul Herzog led several successful efforts to improve Memorial Medical Center, including: Overseeing a $5.7 million renovation of the hospital. Making cardiology, oncology, women's services and emergency services top priorities. Developing the Memorial Medical Cancer Center, a medical oncology center, as a department of the hospital contracted with the University of New Mexico for physician services, a research nurse and a nurse practitioner. Overseeing Memorial Ikard Cancer Treatment Center during its accreditation by the American College of Radiology. Creating an additional 20 Critical Care Unit beds, with a total of 43 Intensive Care Unit/CCU beds. Creating a new urgent care clinic. Overseeing the accreditation of the medical residency program. Creating a neonatal program. Creating a hospitality program. Under Paul Herzog's leadership, Memorial Medical Center was named the ``Best Practice'' in 2011 by the U.S.-Mexico Border Centers of Excellence Consortium for its ability to retain physicians; and named ``Best Hospital'' by Readers' Choice Awards for 2003-2012. Paul Herzog has played a pivotal role in ensuring that rural hospitals can provide exceptional care and services to their communities, and his leadership will be greatly missed. On behalf of all New Mexicans, I wish Paul Herzog the best in his future endeavors.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. I thank my colleague from Ohio. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to this disastrous bill that cuts $40 billion from SNAP, a vital program that feeds over 442,000 New Mexicans, half of whom are children. I want to share the story of LaNae Havens, which shows just how much SNAP means to the people in my district. LaNae is a single mother with a handsome 9-year-old son named Konnor. She works full time, but she doesn't make a lot of money. She has to pay for childcare, rent, transportation to work, utility costs, and all the other expenses families face. That doesn't leave much money for food--and certainly not for the healthy, nutritious food that growing children need. Konnor suffers from anemia. Without her $33 a week in food assistance, LaNae says there's no way she is able to feed her son the protein- and iron-rich foods he desperately needs. She is terrified of what happens if she loses SNAP. I did the SNAP challenge, and it's just enough to get by. You can't buy fresh vegetables. You can't buy enough protein. The thought that we would make it even less for those Americans who need it is unconscionable. I don't want Konnor to go hungry. I urge all of my colleagues to vote against this bill.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I have recently met with some constituents from New Mexico whose lives have been impacted by pancreatic cancer, the deadliest of all major forms of cancer. It's not easy to hear a woman talk about losing her husband, a sister talk about losing her brother, or even a father talk about losing his daughter. It's not easy to listen to their stories, but it's important, and here's why: pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in this country; the 5-year survival rate is just 6 percent; and there are still no early detection tools or lifesaving treatments. Last year, Democrats and Republicans came together to pass the Recalcitrant Cancer Research Act, which requires the National Cancer Institute to develop a scientific framework for combating both pancreatic cancer and lung cancer. Unfortunately, the much-needed progress we stand to make is in serious jeopardy. Largely because of sequestration, the National Cancer Institute's budget has been drastically cut. This is simply unacceptable, and it's yet another reason why I continue to call for a permanent fix to sequestration. The country deserves it; those constituents I met with deserve it; and everyone who has lost a loved one to pancreatic cancer deserves it.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor several generous New Mexico residents who provided a boy from Peru with the opportunity to receive a life-saving heart surgery in Albuquerque. In true New Mexico spirit, Pamela Zanios, her husband James and their sons, Andres and James, opened up their Los Ranchos home to 14-year-old Flavio Liberti Gutierrez while he was in Albuquerque for the heart procedure. The Zanios family gave Flavio the comfort he needed while he was away from his own home in Calca, Peru. Heart surgery is a frightening experience for anyone, especially for a teenager in a foreign country. But the Zanios family provided Flavio with the love and moral support he needed to help him through the ordeal. Flavio got the opportunity for the heart surgery through the Healing the Children program, which arranges for medical care to children who otherwise would not receive it. I want to recognize this wonderful program, along with Dr. Carl Lagerstrom and his team at the Presbyterian Heart Group, which volunteered to perform the successful procedure. I would also like to thank the staff at Presbyterian for donating the hospital care, including operating staff, nursing staff and medications. American Airlines generously provided the air travel for Flavio as part of the company's longtime commitment to Healing the Children. I appreciate the generosity of all New Mexicans who go above and beyond to help their family, neighbors and especially a child from a foreign land who needed a helping hand. The Albuquerque Journal's Joline Gutierrez Krueger eloquently shared Flavio's story with the community. As a result, I was made aware of the actions of the Zanios family, Dr. Lagerstrom and many others who deserve this special recognition.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor, Jessica Belmares-Ortega, an exceptional young New Mexican student. This summer, Jessica, a recent graduate of Albuquerque High School, was awarded a prestigious Ronald McDonald House HACER scholarship to attend the University of New Mexico. One of only four students in the nation to receive this scholarship, she plans to use her $100,000 award to study medicine so she can give back to her community and help the less fortunate in our state. A first-generation American who grew up in a Spanish-speaking environment, Jessica plans to use her bilingual skills to improve health care access and delivery in rural communities. As a volunteer at a local hospital, Jessica frequently saw Spanish-speaking families wait hours for a translator to arrive before getting a diagnosis or treatment. She believes that having more bilingual medical professionals will help mitigate this problem and improve the overall health of patients all over New Mexico. Education has always played an important role in the Belmares-Ortega home. Although Jessica's parents, who are originally from Mexico, did not attend college, they worked hard so that their children would have the opportunity to pursue their dreams. They enrolled Jessica and her two older siblings in United States of America preschool so they would learn English at a young age. They also closely tracked their children's progress to ensure they succeeded in school. Considering Jessica's academic achievements, strong leadership skills and dedication to her community, I am not surprised that the Ronald McDonald House chose to recognize her success with this scholarship. At Albuquerque High School, Jessica enrolled in the dual-language program, took advantage of numerous Advanced Placement and honors courses and participated in a gifted mentorship program. In college, she plans to maintain her busy schedule by enrolling in a medical laboratory program and working to advance her Spanish fluency skills. I'm honored to represent Jessica in the United States House of Representatives, and I wish her success in her college career and in all of her future endeavors.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alex Bregman, an exceptional New Mexican, for his outstanding athletic achievements and for his contributions to the Albuquerque community. An Albuquerque Academy graduate, Alex recently completed his freshman year at Louisiana State University, where he was a standout on the baseball team. After a stellar career at Albuquerque Academy, Alex was selected by the Boston Red Sox in the 2012 MLB Draft, but chose instead to attend LSU. From the moment he stepped on the field in Baton Rouge, Alex has made a tremendous impact. As the starting varsity shortstop this past season, Alex batted .369, with 18 doubles, seven triples, six home runs and 52 RBI, helping lead the LSU Tigers to a berth in the College World Series. His 104 base hits ranked second in the entire nation. After a season like that, it is no wonder that the honors and awards started piling up for Alex. He was selected as a first-team All-American and the SEC Freshman of the Year. Baseball America, Collegiate Baseball Magazine and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association each named Alex as their National Freshman of the Year. The College Baseball Hall of Fame recognized Alex as the 2013 Brooks Wallace National Shortstop of the Year. This summer, Alex played with the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team, where he batted .361, led the team in hits and total bases, and tied for the lead in doubles. Players, coaches, scouts and even opponents are quick to praise Alex's incredible work ethic and his insatiable desire to become a better ballplayer. He will often go out to the baseball field at 10 o'clock at night to practice. Alex is not only a fantastic athlete; he is a fine young man. After winning the National Shortstop of the year award, Alex, ever humble, remarked, ``This is a team award and I have to thank all of my great teammates.'' Because of his commitment to setting and achieving high educational and personal goals, Alex serves as an unparalleled role model for other young people and for the entire Albuquerque community. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent Alex in the United States House of Representatives, and I am proud to consider the entire Bregman family my dear friends.

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico

Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with the gentleman from New Mexico, Congressman Ben Ray Lujan, to honor a great New Mexican business, MCT Industries, for its forty-year contribution to the manufacturing infrastructure of the American economy. On this day, we also honor Ted Martinez, the founder of MCT Industries, and the entire Martinez family for their substantial contributions and service to New Mexico and to the United States of America. To truly comprehend the success of MCT Industries, it is important to first understand the remarkable people behind the company. Born on September 18, 1947, Ted Martinez and his five brothers and sisters grew up in a home with no indoor plumbing. Just like his ancestors who homesteaded the Trujillo land on which he grew up, Ted began working on a ranch at 5 a.m. each morning. Ted learned of the importance of hard work from his parents, Manuel and Isabel. He watched his parents each work several jobs to support the family. Together, Manuel and Isabel ran a general store, while Isabel also served as the postmaster of the only post office in the area. When Manuel was not working in the general store or on the ranch, he also drove a school bus. From a young age, Ted had big dreams. Knowing he wanted to do more than run the ranch, he decided to leave home and get trained in welding at the Job Corps in San Antonio, Texas. Although he completed the 12- month program in just six months, Ted could not find a job because of his youth. While looking for work, he lived in his car behind a gas station and ate only one meal a day. Finally, he came upon Eidson Metal in Albuquerque and applied for a job. After a great deal of persuasion and negotiation, the foreman hired Ted. Just two months later, Ted became the foreman of the water tank crew at Eidson Metal. In 1969, Ted married Anedina, a woman from nearby Garita, New Mexico, whom Ted had known since he was 12. Dina's father, Benerito, served as the foreman of the New Mexico State Highway Department, and kept a ranch of his own, while his wife, Mary, worked as a nurse's aide in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Although Ted and Dina did not have much, their future looked bright. Dina soon became pregnant with their first child. Even though Ted was working 60 hours a week at Eidson Metal and Dina had a job at the Department of Agriculture, times were tough. Wanting a better life for his family, Ted quit his job when Dina was eight months pregnant with their daughter, Claudine, to start his own business. With $200 and a welding machine, Ted and Dina set out on their own. As their workload steadily grew, they decided to formally incorporate a business. On June 8, 1973, Ted and Dina founded Martinez Custom Trailers. Having saved up $42,000 they were able to purchase five acres of land. It would be another two years before they saved up enough money to construct a building. Living at the shop in their mobile home, Ted and Dina were able to monitor business around the clock. It was during this time that they welcomed to their home their precious son Bennie. A year after Bennie was born, Dina quit her job at the Department of Agriculture to work full time at the family business. By 1980, Martinez Custom Trailers ran full-scale production lines of various commercial trailers, and employed 25 people. Ted soon decided to expand from building commercial trailers to building trailers for the federal government. Driven by his profound respect for the military, Ted bid for and won his first federal contract for the Army M353 general-purpose trailer. Using his Army contracting experience, he bid jobs with Sandia and Los Alamos National Laboratories and successfully landed contracts in the nuclear transportation industry. Martinez Custom Trailers proudly contributed to the nuclear disarmament effort in the USSR by collaborating with Sandia on an inspection trailer for USSR nuclear warheads. In recognition of Martinez Custom Trailers' success, in 1984, President Ronald Reagan recognized Ted as New Mexico's Small Business Person of the Year. Business was so successful that, in 1987, Martinez Custom Trailers evolved into a more expansive enterprise, MCT Industries, Inc. Ever eager to expand his federal client base, Ted won a major contract to produce a self-propelled diesel powered U.S. Air Force Maintenance Stand that was slated to be deployed worldwide to service the largest aircraft in the Air Force. With this contract, MCT was able to create even more New Mexican jobs, reaching a height of 240 dedicated employees. In 1992, 28 years after he had taken a risk by leaving the ranch to enter the Job Corps training program, Ted was inducted into the Job Corps Hall of Fame to celebrate his exceptional career. After the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, and the ensuing overseas military involvements, MCT was quickly able to develop and build trailers to support these campaigns. To enable soldiers to rapidly extinguish a fire during convoy operations, the Army needed to field-test two different types of foam fire suppression systems to verify they could perform in combat. In less than four months, MCT designed, built, tested and deployed trailers to Iraq that accommodated both fire suppression systems. Program leaders informed MCT that in less than a week, these systems saved $1 million in Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected, MRAP, vehicles and more importantly, protected the lives of soldiers. Ted and the Martinez family have always displayed a fierce commitment to the wellbeing of their employees. In 2003, MCT hosted President George W. Bush. Just before President Bush addressed 4,000 people and honored MCT as an exemplary small business, the family joined him in a roundtable discussion on the vital impact small businesses have on the U.S. economy. When President Bush asked Ted about the secret of his success, without missing a beat, Ted said ``my employees.'' The new millennium continued to bring blessings to the Martinez family with the birth of the third MCT generation when Diego Dylan Martinez was born on April 21, 2007. His brother Dyson Cruz Martinez quickly followed 22 months later on February 13, 2009. Today, Bennie and Claudine carry on their parents' legacy, with Bennie leading the commercial division of MCT Industries and Claudine leading the government division. MCT's commercial division provides the same support as the government division to its diverse client base which ranges from a local neighbor coming in for truck and trailer customization, to deploying truck fleets of state, local, and tribal governments. In an effort to reduce its carbon footprint, in 2012, MCT installed over 500 solar panels on both the Commercial and Government plants. MCT's successes have resulted in national recognition of its contribution to America's manufacturing base. In March 2013, Claudine accepted her appointment by the Secretary of Commerce to serve as one of 25 members of the Department of Commerce Manufacturing Council. The Council advises the Secretary of Commerce on ensuring regular communication between the federal government and the manufacturing sector, providing a forum for discussing and proposing solutions to industry-related problems, and ensuring that the United States remains the world's preeminent destination for investment in manufacturing. To ensure he can continue to provide for MCT's team for years to come, Ted founded We The People, LLC, a real estate development company co-owned by the Martinez Family and MCT team members who choose to join. Four years ago, the Martinez family announced that they would provide $250,000 in capital to the employee shareholders of We The People, and continue making yearly contributions to the company. In honor of the 40-year anniversary of MCT Industries, we congratulate the Martinez family and the MCT employees for their numerous and longstanding contributions to the state of New Mexico and the United States of America.