Mitch McConnell

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask that the Chair lay before the Senate the message to accompany S. 1312. The Presiding Officer laid before the Senate the following message from the House of Representatives: Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. 1312) entitled ``An Act to prioritize the fight against human trafficking in the United States.'', do pass with an amendment. Motion to Concur

Mr. McCONNELL. I move to concur in the House amendment and ask unanimous consent that the motion be agreed to and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 623, S. 1862.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the Menendez amendment at the desk be agreed to; the committee-reported amendment, as amended, be agreed to; and the bill, as amended, be considered read the third time.

Mr. McCONNELL. I know of no further debate on the bill.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask that the Chair lay before the Senate the message to accompany S. 1311. The Presiding Officer laid before the Senate the following message from the House of Representatives: Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. 1311) entitled ``An Act to provide assistance in abolishing human trafficking in the United States.'', do pass with an amendment. Motion to Concur

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I move to concur in the House amendment and ask unanimous consent that the motion be agreed to and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 628, H.R. 2200.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the Murray amendment at the desk be agreed to; the committee-reported amendment, as amended, be agreed to; and the bill, as amended, be considered read the third time.

Mr. McCONNELL. I know of no further debate on the bill.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 441, S. 1520.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the committee-reported substitute amendment be withdrawn; that the Wicker substitute amendment be considered and agreed to; that the bill, as amended, be considered read a third time and passed; and that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. McCONNELL. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I send a cloture motion to the desk.

Mr. McCONNELL. I ask unanimous consent that the mandatory quorum call be waived.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I move to proceed to executive session to consider Calendar No. 1042.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, when he retired last month, Ronnie Ellis closed the book on his long and proud career in journalism. A native of Glasgow, KY, Ronnie spent his professional life writing about the issues important to his fellow Kentuckians and the Commonwealth he loves. In doing so, he shared firsthand insights with his readers about the happenings in their capital and earned a reputation as one of the most trusted voices in Frankfort. Ronnie's first job in journalism came at the Edmonson News, a family- owned weekly publication in South Central Kentucky. He was so eager to put words in print that he even started working there before he had finished his studies at Western Kentucky University in nearby Bowling Green. He clearly had a knack for it. From there, Ronnie worked at both the, Glasgow Daily Times and Henderson Gleaner, two newspapers with historic roots in Western Kentucky. In 2005, he moved to Frankfort and joined the Community Newspaper Holdings, Inc., CNHI, giving Ronnie the opportunity to have his articles printed in papers throughout the Commonwealth. His move to CNHI also brought a change in focus, Leading the organization's bureau in Frankfort, Ronnie kept a close eye on State government and politics. In addition to his written columns, he also became a frequent guest on Kentucky Educational Television's public affairs program, ``Comment on Kentucky.'' Through the years, I spoke with Ronnie about the issues of the day and their importance to our home State. He never shied away from the tough questions, and his professionalism helped set the standard for other journalists. There is good news, however, for Ronnie's dedicated readers. We aren't losing his viewpoint forever. In the new year, Ronnie plans to continue writing a regular column for CNI. I would like to take this chance to join Ronnie's audience in thanking him for his years of reporting and wishing him a fulfilling retirement. I ask my Senate colleagues to join Elaine and me in thanking Ronnie for his commitment to journalism in Kentucky.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, it is my honor to pay tribute to my friend, David Fields, who is the Butler County judge-executive from my home State of Kentucky. Earlier this year, David announced that his time in public service would come to a close soon, ending more than a decade of leadership and success for those who put their trust in him. After a successful career owning a body shop with his wife, Virginia, David chose to dedicate himself to the service of his community. First elected in 2006, David quickly got to work leading the county. As a former judge-executive myself, I know firsthand just how many responsibilities land on your plate, and David accomplished a great deal along the way. In particular, David has been a wonderful ally to me here in the Senate in our work for this region. The Green River, which flows through Butler County, brings the potential for transportation and commerce. I had the opportunity to work closely with David during our effort to transfer the ownership of the Rochester from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, USACE, to the local community. The dam, which is more man 175 years old and provides a vital water supply to nearly 50,000 Kentuckians, had fallen into disrepair and its uncertain status with the USACE threatened Butler County's economic future. With David's advocacy, I inserted a provision in a recent water infrastructure bill transferring control of the dam to the local community. Last year, I also proudly supported the Rochester Dam Regional Water Commission's application for an economic development grant to renovate the dam and secure its future for the area. With a $3 million investment, local leaders like David can continue to help this region grow and benefit Kentuckians for years to come. Although I am sorry to see him go, I wish David a wonderful retirement. I am told he looks forward to spending more time with Virginia, his son, Greg, and two granddaughters. I would like to thank David for his leadership of Butler County and for his dedicated service to its citizens. I urge my Senate colleagues to join me in congratulating David on this remarkable milestone.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, it is my privilege to salute my friend, Hart County judge-executive Terry Martin, as he completes his career of public service. Since he took office in 2005, Terry has dedicated nearly every waking hour to his constituents. As he begins the next chapter of his life, I would like to remember his lasting record of success and to express my sincere gratitude. After graduating from Western Kentucky University, Terry spent 27 years in education. He was a teacher, an administrator, and a coach helping to guide the next generation. In 2005, Terry was appointed by the Governor to serve as Hart County's judge-executive, the leading elected official in county government. For Terry, entering public service was like joining the family business. His father, Elroy, was a city judge, a local fire chief, and a county magistrate. His brother, Glenn, was also a magistrate and part of this noble family tradition. The drive to serve his neighbors just seems to run in Terry's veins. In the county's top job, Terry had a lot of responsibilities. With a goal to provide essential services to the residents in a fiscally responsible way, Terry consistently went beyond the typical job description. I hear he would even drive a snow plow during winter storms. As a former county judge-executive myself, I know firsthand how difficult a job this can be. Whatever challenge he may have faced, Terry consistently excelled and earned the trust of his constituents and his colleagues. During his time in office, I have enjoyed working with Terry on a number of projects to help Kentucky, We collaborated with the Green River Valley Water District to deliver drinking water to rural parts of the county. Terry also identified the alarming frequency of collisions along Interstate 65 in the county. Together, we prioritized resources to expand the highway, promoting safety for both families and commercial travelers. As he begins his well-deserved retirement, I am confident Terry looks forward to spending more time with his loving family. With Carmen, his wife of 40 years, they are proud parents to Lynlea and grandparents to Lyndon and Gwyneth. I wish the entire Martin family the very best as they take this next step together. Along with all those who have benefited from Terry's service to Hart County and to our Commonwealth, I would like to say thank you. He's been a good friend and a strong leader for Kentucky. I urge my Senate colleagues to join me in congratulating Judge Terry Martin for a job well-done and wishing him a fulfilling retirement.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, it is my pleasure today to pay tribute to Sarah Nicholson, a great Kentuckian who recently retired from a nearly four-decade career with the Kentucky Hospital Association, KHA. Serving as the vice president of government relations for the statewide professional trade association representing hospitals throughout the Commonwealth, Sarah earned a strong reputation for her legislative acumen and her tireless advocacy. As the leader of the association's public affairs operations, Sarah has worked with members of the Kentucky General Assembly and the executive branch for the advancement of our State's hospitals. She was also tasked with supporting beneficial legislation at the Federal level. As my staff and I have worked with the KHA through the years, Sarah was an effective advocate for its priorities. In addition to her diligent work for the KHA, Sarah is passionate about bettering educational opportunities around Kentucky. At her alma mater, Western Kentucky University, she served on its board of advisers, its college of health and human services advisory board, and its alumni board. Sarah was also a representative on the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education Inter-Alumni Council and the Centre College Parents Advisory Committee. As Sarah begins the next chapter of her life, I am confident that she is looking forward to spending more quality time with her family, especially her husband, retired Jefferson County District Judge James C. Nicholson, and their three children. I hope she enjoys every well- deserved time with them. I ask my Senate colleagues to join me in congratulating Sarah Nicholson on her retirement and thanking her for her work on behalf of Kentucky.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, later this month, one of Louisville's finest broadcast journalists, Scott Reynolds, will be signing off the air at Wave 3 News for the last time. For more than 20 years, Scott has brought his passion for Louisville and commitment to professionalism to our local NBC affiliate. Along the way, he has won awards, built friendships, and earned the respect of his viewers. As he prepares to leave Wave 3, I would like to take a moment to honor his career of accomplishment in Kentucky. Scott grew up on a dairy farm an hour outside of Minneapolis, MN. A fierce competitor, he loved playing baseball and watching the professionals on television. Later in his life, Scott would bring that same competitive nature to his work on the other side of the camera as a broadcaster. After graduating college, he moved to northern Idaho to work for a local radio station. Throughout his career, Scott has worked in several markets, including Cedar Rapids, IA, Las Vegas, NV, and eventually back near his home in Minneapolis. It's from there that Wave 3 convinced Scott to accept a new adventure in Louisville in 1996. He was ready for the intense market, even describing a constant ``news war'' in local television. He is clearly thriving in the competition. Now the anchor of the 5, 6, and 11 pm newscasts, Scott was even recognized among his peers in 2016 winning an Emmy. Although he has earned his seat behind the anchor's desk, that doesn't mean Scott necessary stays there. In fact, I have heard some of his favorite segments have come from the field, including his coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court's Bush v. Gore decision in 2000 and his trip to the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. I have enjoyed the many times have gotten to speak with Scott about my work in the U.S. Senate. Discussing a broad range of topics important to Kentuckians throughout the years, I am grateful for his balanced demeanor and commitment to integrity. Every time he interviewed me, it was clear I was talking to one of the best in the business. Although broadcast journalism is a fast-paced, time-consuming job, Scott still finds time for his many hobbies, including charity work with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the American Red Cross. The rest of his time is devoted to his wife and five children: Haley, Connor, Tyler, and twins Matthew and Logan. I would like to extend my warmest wishes to Scott with gratitude for his work at Wave 3 News. I know his drive and talent will be missed. I would like to ask my Senate colleague to join me in congratulating Scott Reynolds on a job well done.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment to congratulate my friend, Leslie County clerk James Lewis, on his upcoming retirement from public service. For more than three decades, James has worked for his neighbors in local government, earning respect throughout the county and the Commonwealth. As he prepares to leave the Leslie County Clerk's Office, I want to thank him for his tireless work and dedication to our State. First elected in 1985, James has been a fixture of his community for more than a generation. Of the many responsibilities of a county clerk, perhaps the most important is the operation and safeguarding of Americans' access to the ballot box. Throughout his service as county clerk, James has overseen nearly 60 elections, including every office from jailer to the President of the United States. Although the technologies involved may have changed, his commitment to his office has never wavered. I have had the pleasure to work with James on a number of projects throughout the years. His passion for the people of Leslie County is apparent in everything he does, and they have been served well by his time in office. James became a respected leader among all 120 county clerks throughout the Commonwealth. From 1994 to this year, he served as the chairman of the Kentucky County Clerk's Association Election Committee, administrating election training for all other clerks for more than 20 years. Between 1999-2000, James served as the association's president. One of the association's initiatives, which James helped found, is the Help A Veteran Everyday, H.A.V.E., Program. James spearheaded one of their projects, which involves repurposing license plates into bird houses. The finished products can then be purchased at the clerk's offices. Through these efforts, James is helping support Kentucky's men and women who served our Nation in uniform. Whatever retirement may hold in store for James, I wish him all the best. Perhaps he will spend more time on his hobbies, like gardening or fishing. I have no doubt that he will be enjoying more time with his wife, Betty, daughters, Danika and Wendy, and grandchildren, Kelsey and R.J. As he begins his well-deserved retirement, I would like to congratulate James on a distinguished career. I urge my Senate colleagues to join me in thanking James for his remarkable public service to Leslie County and to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. McCONNELL

Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, after leading the Monroe County government for nearly a decade, my friend County judge-executive Tommy Willett will retire at the end of his term. I would like to take a moment to congratulate him on his accomplishments during his time in office and to thank him for his leadership. In 2011, Tommy answered the call of public service, stepping away from his successful business career to run for office. The job isn't an easy one. Speaking as a former judge-executive myself, I know firsthand the broad range of responsibilities that fall into the job description. But whatever the challenge, Tommy always worked to better the lives of the men and women of Monroe County. I would like to mention one particular project I had the privilege to work on with Tommy. More than a decade ago, the community began discussing plans to construct its own water treatment facility. At that time, the county was purchasing water from the city of Tompkinsville, eventually reaching a high cost of nearly $80,000 per month. When county officials brought the idea to my attention, I stepped in to help. In addition to funds raised by the community and at the State level, I directed Federal resources to the project to help complete it. Working together with Tommy for a number of years, I was delighted to see the facility become fully functional earlier this year, with the capacity to pump 2 million gallons of water per day. The Monroe County Water District's treatment plant is just one example of Tommy's lasting impact on behalf of his constituents. With a constant drive to help Kentuckians however possible, he should be proud of his time in office. As he ends his public service, I extend my warm wishes for a restful retirement. Whatever the future may hold for Tommy, I hope he enjoys more time with his sons, Scott and James, and his four grandchildren, I ask my Senate colleagues to join me in congratulating Judge-Executive Tommy Willett for his public service in Kentucky.