Candice Miller

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great Michigan family-owned company, Little Caesars Pizza, on a very special anniversary in that company's history and the two wonderful people who started and built that company, Mike and Marion Ilitch. 30 years ago today, on April 30, 1985, Mike and Marion Ilitch started the Little Caesars Love Kitchen, which over the years has provided free meals to nearly three million homeless, hungry and displaced families. Since it provided its first free meal, the Little Caesars big-rig pizza kitchen on wheels has traveled to all 48 states in the continental U.S. providing fresh, hot pizza for the hungry, homeless, victims of natural disasters and terrorist attacks in more than 4,000 American cities. Mike and Marion Ilitch created the Love Kitchen as a way to demonstrate their deep commitment to helping those in need by giving back to the communities in which it does business. Meals from the Love Kitchen are completely free of charge for everyone served. Local Little Caesars franchise owners and company regional offices donate all the food and labor costs that allows the Love Kitchen to assist those in need. The commitment to helping those in need extends far beyond the Ilitch family and evidence of that fact is that an estimated 50,000 Little Caesars franchise owners and employees have volunteered countless hours of their time over the years to support this program in their local communities. In addition to the local support and participation of franchisees, Little Caesars Enterprises contributes nationally and has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars per year to operate the program, including an investment of $350,000 in 2014 to launch a second Love Kitchen allowing them to double the number of people they can help. The Little Caesars Love Kitchen works with local shelters and community leaders across this nation every day to feed the hungry and homeless. When communities are struck by disasters, you can be nearly certain that the Love Kitchen will be rolling into town to provide relief to victims and rescue workers. Just a few of the many examples are that the Love Kitchen has fed families after devastating tornadoes in Oklahoma and Alabama, provided hot meals after Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Katrina and helped feed rescue workers in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center and the bombing of the Alfred Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. I commend Little Caesars founders Mike and Marion Ilitch, their entire family, and the many Little Caesars workers and franchisees for their unwavering commitment to supporting and comforting those in communities across this nation at times of greatest need. I also want to applaud the leadership of the President and CEO of Ilitch Holdings Christopher Ilitch and Little Caesars President and CEO Dave Scrivano for their important work to continue Little Caesars legacy as an outstanding corporate citizen. I salute the Little Caesars Love Kitchen on the occasion of its 30th anniversary and thank everyone at Little Caesars for spreading love, kindness, and hope in so many communities across our great nation.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Chairman, first of all, I want to thank the distinguished chairman for yielding the time. I think you can see by the comments that have been made thus far that we have a very bipartisan bill and a bipartisan approach. That is, through our committee, in no short measure because of the leadership that Chairman McCaul and, quite frankly, our ranking member have exhibited with the vision that they have had, these two gentlemen working together, and both the chair and the ranking member on our Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Mr. Ratcliffe and Mr. Richmond as well. This really has been a tremendous effort, and so important for our country. This particular issue, obviously, is certainly a bipartisan issue. I say that, Mr. Chairman, because our Constitution makes the first and foremost responsibility of the Federal Government to provide for the common defense. That is actually in the preamble of our Constitution. In our modern world, those who are seeking harm to our Nation, to our citizens, to our companies, can use many different means, including attacks over the Internet to attack our Nation. Recent cyber attacks on U.S. companies like Sony, Target, and Home Depot not only harm these companies, Mr. Chairman, but they harm the American citizens who do business with them, putting their most personal private information at risk. These threats, as are well known, are coming from nation-states like North Korea, Russia, Iran, China, as well as cyber criminals seeking to steal not only personal information but also intellectual property and sensitive government information. In today's digital world, we have a duty to defend ourselves against cyber espionage, and the best way to combat these threats is to first recognize the threat and combine private and government resources and intelligence. Mr. Chairman, that is exactly what this bill does. Mr. Chairman, I think this bill will help to facilitate greater cooperation and efforts to protect our Nation's digital infrastructure, including power grids and other utilities and other services that everyday Americans rely on each and every day. By removing barriers, which will allow private companies to voluntarily share their cybersecurity threat information with the Department of Homeland Security and/or other companies, I think we will in a very large way improve earlier detection and mitigation of potential threats. Additionally, this legislation that we are debating on the floor today ensures that personal identification information is removed prior to sharing information related to cyber threats and that very strong safeguards are in place to protect personal privacy and civil liberties. Mr. Chairman, I point that out because that was something that was discussed a lot by practically every member of the Homeland Security Committee. We were all very, very united on that issue. And I think that is an important critical component, a point to make, and it is reflected in this legislation. As Mr. Ratcliffe mentioned just earlier, 85 percent of America's critical infrastructure is owned and operated by the private sector-- think about that, 85 percent--which means that cyber threats pose as much of an economic threat to the United States as they do to our security, and we have a constitutional responsibility, as I pointed out in the beginning, to protect ourselves, to protect our Nation, to protect our American citizens from this ever-evolving threat. So, Mr. Chairman, I would urge that all of my colleagues join me, join all of us on our committee, in voting in favor of this important legislation that will provide an additional line, and a very important line, of defense against cyber attacks.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of the United States Capitol Police. Congress is a very unique place that presents special challenges for a law enforcement agency, yet every day, the men and women of the Capitol Police work tirelessly to protect this institution. Their coordination, guidance, and support ensures that Members and Staff can fulfill the legislative responsibilities of Congress, all while securing the Capitol Hill campus so our constituents can visit and see first-hand how the legislative branch functions. Specifically, I also want to note the excellent job done by the Capitol Police during the New Member Orientation program held last November for the incoming Members of Congress. The Orientation program is a significant effort that requires extensive coordination and communication, but the Capitol Police's work in providing security at the hotel and for all of the events was critical to the success and productivity of the week. I am very grateful for all they did to help with the program. The officers and civilians within the force continually display professionalism and excellence in carrying out their duties, and I thank them for all their hard work.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Chuck Brockman, a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, boater, philanthropist, newspaperman, friend, and retired soldier. Chuck was born on May 28, 1934, in Mount Clemens, Michigan. He spent his early years in Mount Clemens with his father, Harvey, and mother, Roma, and his sister, Janet. At the age of 20, Chuck entered the U.S. Army and admirably served our nation in Munich, Germany. During this time, he traveled extensively in Europe and began what was soon-to-be many decades of adventure. Soon after, he married the love of his life, Margarite ``Scotty'' Brockman. Although Chuck and Scotty never had any children of their own, they were known for their generosity and willingness to ``adopt'' individuals they mentored throughout their lives. This epitomizes the man that Chuck Brockman was--he was always willing to take care of others as if they were his own family. Chuck worked in the composing room at the Macomb Daily newspaper for 34 years before he semi-retired in 1999. At that time, he launched a boating column to share his passion for sailing and the sea with others. An avid recreational boater, he would write about places to go and the stories behind them. Instead of retiring and quietly enjoying the twilight of his life, in his usual adventurous style, Chuck chose to continue sharing his fearless experiences on the beautiful waters of the Great Lakes for all to learn more. Chuck continued his advocacy about the natural wonders of the Lakes and its maritime heritage when he founded and ran the Save Our South Channel Lights, an organization devoted to restoring historically important lighthouses in Lake St. Clair and the St. Clair River. These South Channel lighthouses, also known as the Twin Sisters, were built before Abraham Lincoln was President of the United States and were used for many years by mariners sailing across Lake St. Clair and entering the South Channel up to the St. Clair River. Unfortunately, they fell into disrepair and were neglected, and many thought they would simply fall into the lake and be forgotten. That is, until Chuck Brockman made it his mission to save them. He was a passionate spokesperson for this project that raised funds for equipment and worked to maintain structures of lighthouses that were falling into the lake. Because of his tireless efforts, Chuck's organization raised about $900,000 and now has lighthouses listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Chuck was able to recruit and inspire so many dedicated individuals into this project. Because of this, even though he has sailed on, this work will continue; this is a true legacy. I first met Chuck when I was a Harrison Township Supervisor in the 1980s. We instantly formed a bond because of our common love for boating. Later when I became Secretary of State, I relied on Chuck's sage advice for many projects impacting southeast Michigan, particularly the lighthouses. As Secretary of State for Michigan, I established a license plate fundraising program that financially supported the preservation of all 124 of Michigan's lighthouses. Like Chuck, I also appreciate the austere beauty of lighthouses and the important role they play for all sailors. Chuck and I worked closely during my time as Secretary of State and then when I entered Congress to preserve these structures. I was amazed and inspired by his enthusiasm, zeal, and quiet strength in accomplishing what many thought was an insurmountable feat. I considered him an advisor on these issues and a loyal friend. On March 1, 2015, Chuck passed away peacefully in his home on Harsens Island. I know that I am not alone in saying that I will miss his positive outlook on life and stories of his adventures--both on and off the water. Mark Twain once said: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. Chuck's life was the embodiment of this saying. In the 80 years that he spent on Earth, he explored, sailed, loved, taught, mentored, learned, gave, and most importantly, lived. Chuck has left a sizeable legacy for the people of Michigan. It is people like him that forever leave an imprint in our minds and on our hearts. Fair winds and following seas, Chuck.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 152, I call up the resolution (H. Res. 132) providing for the expenses of certain committees of the House of Representatives in the One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 132, which is a resolution setting the funding levels for each House committee. Every Congress, it is the responsibility of the Committee on House Administration to establish funding levels for committees in the House so that they may budget appropriately and prepare their oversight and operational responsibilities for the rest of Congress with a full knowledge of the resources available. The Committee on House Administration started the consideration process out of this committee funding resolution by holding hearings to receive input from the chair and ranking members of each of our House committees. These were very productive, very informative hearings, and I am certain that my partner in this effort, the ranking member of our committee, Mr. Brady of Pennsylvania, certainly will share that belief. Each chair and ranking member worked together in the development of their committee's budget requests and in their advocacy for those requests before our committee. It was a true example of bipartisanship. This funding resolution that is a product of the information developed by our hearings is also a bipartisan product, which was favorably reported out of our committee by unanimous voice vote. I am very pleased that each committee reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the equitable two-thirds/one-third allocation between the majority and the minority sides. The Committee on House Administration has taken really great care, Mr. Speaker, in examining the funding levels authorized for each committee in this resolution so that the priorities of the House and the priorities of the American people are put front and center. I think it is important to note that, over the past few Congresses, the House has not only asked for fiscal responsibility across the Federal Government, but has led by example in showing fiscal responsibility by making reductions in our own budgets, both in individual Member office budgets as well as the committee budgets. Since the 110th Congress, for example, Mr. Speaker, the House has had actually a 15 percent reduction in our committee budgets. At the same time, our colleagues on the other side of the Capitol did not actually reduce the funding for their committees other than what was mandated by ``sequestration.'' In fact, the other body actually increased their committee spending while the House was reducing spending, until making some modest reductions in the committee budgets recently at the start of the 114th. I just point that out. We were leading by example here. Additionally, the Executive Office actually had a 30 percent increase in their spending since 2008, and, given that it is the role of the Congress to conduct effective and needed oversight over the entire executive and judicial branches, I think it is very vital that we make certain that our committees have the resources they need to meet this important duty. So that brings us here today, Mr. Speaker, to the consideration of House Resolution 152. After hearing from each chair and each ranking member, the committee was able, really, to better ascertain the needs of each committee and to ensure that they did have adequate and proper funding. Many committees, including the Committee on House Administration, received no increase in funding in this resolution from what we were allocated in the 113th Congress. Many committees received flat funding. Because of the increased oversight or legislative priorities, other committees required a very modest or targeted increase in their resources. The overall proposed increase in authorized funding for the committees is 1.63 percent for 2015 and 1.57 percent for 2016. Again, though, there are about half of the committees that received no increase in funding, got level funding. The committee funding resolution also takes into account that there might be unforeseen circumstances that will pop up during the course of this Congress that might require some additional resources. For instance, in the case of the Judiciary Committee, it was testified by the chair and the ranking member that there is a possibility of a judicial impeachment proceeding. They may have to conduct that; they may not. So to prepare for that kind of unanticipated need, the Committee on House Administration has actually allocated $500,000 for each session in the 114th into a reserve fund which could be allocated for something like that or, if there is another committee that demonstrates a real need for it, an emerging priority that perhaps they couldn't see at this point in time. I just think that that is a very fiscally prudent way to budget, not just giving money on the ``if come,'' but if we really do see that we need it, of course then we can protect that money; if we don't need to spend it, it won't be spent. Before authorizing any increase in funding, the Committee on House Administration really dove into why the increase was needed, such as a specific new priority, emerging challenges that some of our committees will face this Congress. Some of the committees requested additional funds for urgent equipment needs. Part of our responsibilities, of course, are to ensure smooth operations of this institution, because a breakdown of equipment that we rely on every day to assist with the daily function of the House may lead to proceedings being severely delayed or halted, and we thought that was an unacceptable possibility. So, as an example, some of the equipment that, as I say, that some of the committees are looking for, we wanted to make sure we had resources there. Another example is the need for additional specialized staff members to assist in the oversight functions that the committee is charged with. For instance, the Armed Services Committee, a good example, had great needs for additional staff to help with conducting vigorous oversight in the pursuit of major overdue reforms at the Pentagon which could save the Nation, literally, tens of billions of dollars. We thought that was a fiscally prudent use of additional resources. The Veterans' Affairs Committee has immense new challenges in conducting their oversight needed to get to the bottom of the scandalous treatment of our veterans at the VA hospitals across the Nation. Again, we thought that that was an appropriate expenditure as we ensure that those who have served the cause of freedom get the care and the benefits that they have earned. Again, not only do we believe that it is a prudent use of additional resources, but an imperative duty. Other committees have expressed a desire for more field hearings across the country, and our committee was very supportive of this because we really believe that getting out of Washington, if you will, and conducting these field hearings, talking to the American people, really allowing Members and committees to gather firsthand knowledge of how the Federal programs are functioning and their impact on our Nation, was a very important thing. So I would say this. I think it is important to note that, while there is a very small overall increase in authorized committee spending, this funding resolution does not require any new spending, does not require any new spending within the House's overall budget. This funding resolution only redirects already appropriated resources to new priorities. In summary, Mr. Speaker, we are proposing modest, targeted increases to meet the House committees' oversight and operational needs, and I would hope that each Member of the House will concur with the priorities that we have set forth in this funding resolution to allow each of our committees to continue with their important work. Producing this resolution, I think, was important work for our committee, and I certainly want to thank all of our members, both Republican and Democrat, particularly the distinguished ranking member, Mr. Brady from Pennsylvania, for his cooperation, their participation in the process, and the ideas that everybody brought to the table that helped produce this resolution that we bring to the full House today, which I will note as well, Mr. Speaker, was passed out of our committee unanimously. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, let me just sincerely, sincerely thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Brady), my ranking member. If I am going to miss anything in this House, it is the great friendships that I have made with many people, both Republicans and Democrats. Certainly he has been right at the top of the list. He has been nothing but professional in our committee deliberations, in the way that we handle all of these different challenges that come before our committee. I do think it is a very good thing that he points out that our committee does operate in a very bipartisan way. We are all about making sure that this institution is able to do what the American people expect from us, and we both share that passion. So I look forward to working with him for another year and a half here. Mr. Speaker, I urge every Member to support the passage of this resolution so that each committee can plan appropriately with the full knowledge of their available resources. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H. Res. 132.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I would add that, for the 114th Congress--and I think this is a very important point, actually--the House remained below the amount authorized back in 2008. We are below the amount authorized in 2008. So the House has been making significant strides to take a very hard look at the way that we utilize our individual budgets, both in our Member offices as well as in our committees, and we are absolutely committed to being fiscally responsible stewards of the taxpayer dollar. This funding resolution highlights those priorities to remain guardians of the taxpayer dollar, and as such, each committee must operate responsibly, using their budget to set priorities to carry out their important work. Even after the adoption of the resolution, the Committee on House Administration will continue to work with each committee to assist them in finding solutions which deliver savings and allow every committee to stretch the valuable resources allocated so that they can continue to carry out their important duties. At the Committee on House administration, we understand, Mr. Speaker, that it is our responsibility to ensure that the House operates in a fiscally responsible manner, an effective and efficient manner, and that is a responsibility that we take very, very seriously. I believe strongly that we have found the appropriate balance in funding this resolution that will keep in place fiscal responsibility and, at the same time, ensure that the important work of the House is carried out. Mr. Speaker, I would mention to the ranking member that I don't think I have any other speakers. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns on Tuesday, March 24, 2015, it adjourn to meet at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2015.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that it may be in order at any time on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, for the Speaker to declare a recess, subject to the call of the Chair, for the purpose of receiving in joint meeting His Excellency Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table (S. Con. Res. 7) authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center for a ceremony to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the World War II members of the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Chair, nearly two centuries ago we began to utilize rail for moving freight and people around our great nation. This technological leap helped to greatly expand our economy and bring together our vast continental nation. Today, passenger rail still plays a key role in connecting population centers and moving people to their places of work. It is vital that we continue to find new ways to improve and modernize our infrastructure to meet the demands of the modern world. As a member of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee I am proud to support this important legislation because it will help to accomplish this important goal. The Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act will assist in advancing large infrastructure projects through new partnerships with the private sector and states including giving states a greater role in managing routes. It will more quickly advance those projects through streamlining the environmental processes, and it increases transparency for Amtrak which will require it to operate in a more businesslike manner I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation to give our nation a stronger and more vital passenger rail system.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Macedonia and Macedonian-Americans, and as someone who represents a district home to the largest community of Macedonian-Americans in our nation, to introduce H. Res. 56, affirming strong U.S. support for Macedonia joining NATO, and recognize the strategic U.S. partnership with our friend and ally Macedonia. The U.S.-Macedonia relationship is one of critical importance in today's increasingly volatile world. Macedonia is strategically located in Southeast Europe, providing a unique gateway for rapid deployment to the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe in order to maintain regional stability as various national security challenges arise. Our friendship with Macedonia has never been more critical. The U.S. has a vested interest in the stability and security of Macedonia and Southeast Europe. In the 1990s, we sent troops to the northern border of Macedonia to ensure stability in the aftermath of the breakup of Yugoslavia. Due in part to this American commitment, Macedonia was the only nation to peacefully declare independence without any bloodshed. Since then, the U.S. has assisted Macedonia on its path to partnership in Europe and across the Atlantic alike, with a track record of military, economic, and political support ever since. In 1999, Macedonia opened its borders to 400,000 refugees from Kosovo and hosted the NATO Logistical Support Center for Kosovo Forces. In 2001, Macedonia was one of the first countries to offer support to the United States after the horrific attacks of September 11, abiding by the words of the late Macedonian President Boris Trajkovski that ``an attack on the United States is an attack on Macedonia.'' Since 2002, Macedonia has contributed greatly to the U.S. and ISAF mission in Afghanistan. Macedonia has patrolled ISAF headquarters in Kabul, was the fourth and fifth largest ISAF troop contributor per capita, contributed troops to the NATO-led ISAF mission, and engaged in combat operations side-by-side with American troops. Currently, Macedonia has been recognized as an operational partner in the new ``Resolute Support'' Mission in Afghanistan to train, advise, and assist our Afghan partners. For their participation in U.S. and NATO-led missions, Macedonian soldiers have received 120 medals and military honors from the United States. Furthermore, Macedonia has been an active participant--and the first state partner--with the Vermont National Guard for the past 20 years, and, since 1995, more than 3,000 Macedonians and Vermonters have shared their expertise in more than 800 events as the partnership has developed, including a joint military embedment in Afghanistan in 2011. I have long noted that Macedonia can protect the tent of NATO in places like Afghanistan, but it cannot sleep in the tent so long as it is not a member of the Treaty Organization. This is not right. With what is happening in the world today, now is not the time to back down on supporting our allies. H. Res. 56 calls on the Administration, Department of State, and European allies to work with Greece and NATO allies to ensure that bilateral disputes do not impede Macedonia's NATO accession for the sake of regional stability in light of the current situation with Ukraine and elsewhere. Time and again, Macedonia has shown steadfast support for the efforts of the United States to restore and maintain global stability. Macedonia is one of America's best friends in Southeast Europe. But, Macedonia needs our support. It is long overdue that we use our diplomatic strength to reinforce our allies, and including Macedonia in the greatest military alliance in history is an important step in securing U.S. interests and maintaining this crucial partnership well into the future. I encourage my colleagues in this House to support H. Res. 56 and affirm strong U.S. support for Macedonia joining NATO.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to come from the State of Michigan, the Great Lakes State. In Michigan, our very identity is defined by the Great Lakes. For so many of us from Michigan, our lives revolve around the Lakes. Whether it is tourism, agriculture, shipping, fishing, or recreational boating, the Lakes are vital to our very livelihood. The Great Lakes face many challenges these days, but there is nothing more threatening to the health of the Lakes than the infiltration of Asian carp--an invasive species that are about 40 miles from our doorstep. For this reason, today I introduced the Defending Our Great Lakes Act of 2015. This is a bill that will prevent the spread of Asian carp once and for all. This bill does three things: First, it authorizes the Army Corps of Engineers to take immediate action to update the infrastructure and install necessary technologies and measures at the Brandon Road Lock and Dam site. Second, it requires the Army Corps to develop a long-term plan, in consultation with federal agencies as well as the Great Lake states and impacted business and environmental communities. Finally, this bill reaffirms the need to continue to examine the ongoing needs across the entire Great Lakes region for measures that protect our waterways from invasive species. The Defending Our Great Lakes Act, by design, provides a broad authorization for the Army Corps, and it authorizes the use of the best technologies, including, but not limited to, electric barriers. The importance of this broad authorization is that it will allow them to use new, yet-to-be-developed technologies going forward. It is important to note that this bill also instructs the Army Corps to consider the protection of the area's ecosystem to the greatest extent feasible so that no native populations are inadvertently harmed as we attempt to remove the threat of invasive species. Additionally, this bill also instructs the Army Corps to ensure the efficient flow of navigation so that there is no unnecessary impediment to commerce. Including these provisions further demonstrates the dynamic nature of the Great Lakes and how we must work with all interested stakeholders to accomplish the goal of preventing Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes basin. This bill was introduced with a broad bipartisan cross section of members from across the Great Lakes basin and in partnership with Senator Debbie Stabenow who will introduce companion legislation in the Senate. In the many years I have been so honored to serve in Congress, the protection of our magnificent Great Lakes has been one of my primary advocacies. I remember well battling the scourge of invasive species like zebra mussels, the sea lamprey, Eurasian Milfoil and phragmites. All of these invasive species have taken an ecological and economic toll on our Great Lakes, and we have spent billions over the past two decades trying to mitigate their damage. With Asian carp, however, we cannot afford to respond to the untold damage they are certain to have on our Lakes. They represent the most grave threat we have faced, and they must be dealt with using preventative, proactive measures. The Asian carp threaten our $17 billion tourism industry and our $7 billion fishing and recreation industry. They threaten our very way of life, and potentially billions of dollars every year to our regional economy. We simply cannot turn our backs on this threat. I encourage all of my colleagues to support the Defending Our Great Lakes Act and help ensure the long-term health and beauty of our precious Great Lakes. The Lakes are vital to our identity and livelihood.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 212, the Drinking Water Protection Act. Last summer, as a result of toxic algae blooms in Lake Erie, hundreds of thousands of residents in Toledo were banned from using the city's drinking water, creating a state of emergency for local counties. This incident, which lasted for multiple days, is a reminder of the serious threat these toxic blooms pose to all of our Great Lakes and the communities that rely on them, and not just the immediately surrounding communities. The Great Lakes account for over 20 percent of the fresh water drinking supply on the entire planet, and they generate billions of dollars each year through the fishing and shipping industries and recreational activities. We cannot ignore the threat posed by these toxic algae blooms and need to do more to protect our magnificent Lakes. Assuring that we have adequate resources dedicated to monitoring and managing this threat across the entire Great Lakes Region must be a priority, which is why I introduced legislation last Congress to help advance voluntary assurance programs in Michigan and why I have and will continue to support legislative measures like H.R. 212, the Drinking Water Protection Act. Michigan farmers have been leading the way when it comes to protecting our Lakes from damage caused by algae blooms, but they should not carry the burden alone. We must all work together to preserve and protect the health of our agricultural and maritime resources. It is my hope that this important legislation will be promptly approved by the Senate and sent to the President's desk.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. I certainly thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the combined rule, but specifically I want to talk in favor of the Keystone XL Pipeline Act, which will finally approve this very, very long overdue project. The act that we are going to be passing will certainly show this House's intent to pass it, and I do believe that now the Senate will pass the Keystone Pipeline project as well. There are just so many reasons--so many reasons--to vote in favor of this bill: First of all, tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, American jobs, at zero cost to the American taxpayers. Greater American access to safe and reliable North American energy resources, because certainly getting more energy from our close friends, our neighbors, our closest ally, the Canadians, makes perfect sense. Reduced energy costs for American families. How important is that? Enhanced American energy security. And in today's modern world, more than ever, energy independence and energy security equals national security. So no wonder, Madam Speaker, that this project is supported by so many groups from all across the spectrum: labor organizations, so many labor organizations are supportive of this because of the jobs that it will bring; so many business organizations because of what it is going to do to help turbocharge our economy; and certainly the vast majority of American people, in poll after poll after poll, have demonstrated that they want this project to happen. They are totally cognizant, very aware of what this project means, again, to reducing our reliance that we have currently on fossil fuel from foreign sources, some countries that are not particularly favorable to American values and our way of life, and the American people are very, very supportive of this project. I say now, Madam Speaker, that it is time to turn away from the extreme environmentalists and work toward the priorities of the American people. The time to act is now.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 1691, the Border Patrol Agent Pay Reform Act of 2014. This measure would replace the current antiquated overtime system used by the Border Patrol and create a new pay system that results in more hours worked on the border, provides more reliable schedules and paychecks for agents, and saves taxpayers millions of dollars each year. As Chairman of the Border and Maritime Security Subcommittee, I have been focused on increasing border security efforts along our long and porous border and supporting the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol who defend our nation against drug and human smugglers and others who would do us harm. This measure supports that effort. The men and women who secure our borders often work alone, in very remote locations on the border. They cannot simply punch a clock at the end of their shift if they are in pursuit of illicit border crossers. Instead they work irregular hours to track and apprehend dangerous criminal aliens. This bill will allow front line supervisors to better manage agents' work schedules, saving taxpayers millions of dollars each year. In fact, according to the Congressional Budget Office, this bill will save taxpayers up to $100 million a year. Last year, the Office of Special Counsel issued a scathing report about the misuse and abuse of the current overtime system by Customs and Border Protection. This legislation will end such abuse in the future, at the same time increasing the number of hours the Border Patrol can secure the border, which is the equivalent of adding an additional 1,500 Border Patrol agents. With additional hours on the border, our nation will be more secure as additional agent hours will help gain control of the border, carry out additional law enforcement missions, and apprehend dangerous criminals. Mr. Speaker, the mission carried out by the men and women of the Border Patrol is extremely dangerous--more than one hundred agents have given their lives protecting our nation. We owe it to them to give them a stable, predicable paycheck that takes into account the irregular nature of the arduous work they do every day on the border. So, I want to commend the leadership of the Chief of the Border Patrol, Michael Fisher, and the Deputy Chief of the Border Patrol, Ronald Viteillo, for their commitment to finding sustainable reforms for agent pay, while also improving the security of our border. I urge my colleagues to support this common sense bill that saves the taxpayers millions of dollars.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, certainly, protecting and preserving the Great Lakes has always been a principal advocacy of mine through my entire tenure in public office and even before I came into public office. I actually grew up on the Great Lakes. My family was in the marina business. So the lakes were more than just a source of recreation for us. They put food on the table in our family. Like so many from the region, the Great Lakes are a proud part of our identity. We have heard from so many of the various States in the Great Lakes basin today the passion that we all have for these magnificent, magnificent Great Lakes. As has been said, they generate billions of dollars each and every year through fishing, through the shipping industry, and recreational activities as well. They are 20 percent of the freshwater drinking supply on the entire planet, quite frankly. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, we have not been the best stewards of these magnificent lakes, and we do owe it to future generations to help assure that they are protected and that they are preserved. One great way to do this for the Great Lakes is through this continued funding and support of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative that we are debating here on the floor today. Over the years, Mr. Speaker, I have seen firsthand the impact the GLRI is having on our lakes. From dredging to beach and shoreline restoration to fighting against invasive species, these projects are critical to protecting and restoring the Great Lakes ecosystems. Actually, in October, I was at a place called Harsens Island in my district where I saw an effort underway to control phragmites, which is sort of an odd name. It is a huge, invasive plant that has been actually choking wetlands throughout the Great Lakes Basin, but funding through this program is eradicating them and letting Mother Nature breathe again. Along the shoreline of the St. Clair River, GLRI funded the restoration of natural habitats, improved stormwater drainage, and improved water quality, but there is so much more to do. For example, the Clinton River, which flows through a very major metropolitan area in southeast Michigan, is in need of similar restoration projects. We also need to look at ways that can better detect toxins in our waterways with real-time water quality monitoring systems, some of which we have in my area as it comes through Lake Huron, the St. Clair River, into Lake St. Clair, and down the Detroit River. It is not happening in Lake Erie, and it has to be part of the notification protocol there as well. We also are having some of these green-blue algae blooms in our area. As was mentioned, these are a gift from God. God gave us these magnificent lakes that have provided us with so much, but we do need to be better stewards of them, and quite frankly, we have a lot of making up to do to Mother Nature. Mr. Speaker, we can start that certainly today by strongly supporting H.R. 5764, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act. I certainly rise in strong support of this bill from the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Joyce), and I urge all of my colleagues to support it as well.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Wayne H. Wood, a longtime constituent and friend of mine, and a lifelong friend to the farmers of Michigan. Mr. Wood is retiring after fourteen years as president of the Michigan Farm Bureau. For most of his adult life, Mr. Wood has been dedicated to the well- being and advancement of the farmers that help put food on the tables of all Americans. Having served as president of the Michigan Farm Bureau since 2000, he also represented that same organization as its vice president the twelve years before that. He was first elected to the board of directors in 1984 as a Director-at-Large. But his roots run even deeper than that, as he was the president of the Sanilac County Farm Bureau for five years before he moved up to the state organization. As a director representing the Midwest Region on the American Farm Bureau Federation board of directors, he has extended his influence beyond the borders of Michigan. His region includes a dozen states: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Mr. Wood has held a number of important positions of leadership related to the farming industry. He serves on and formerly chaired the Michigan Agriculture Preservation Fund Board, a nine-member board, appointed by the governor, which oversees the state Purchase of Development Rights program and grant funding. He also spent four years presiding over the Michigan Farmland and Community Alliance, an MFB affiliate organization dedicated to farmland preservation. In 2003, Mr. Wood became the sole agricultural representative on two high-profile councils. First, Gov. Jennifer Granholm appointed Mr. Wood to her Michigan Land Use Leadership Council, which was charged with studying urban sprawl and making recommendations to the governor on how to minimize the impact of current land use trends on the state's environment and economy. Second, the director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality appointed him to a newly formed Environmental Advisory Council. The Council is responsible for advising the department on major issues that may affect DEQ programs, policies and operations. In 2004, the general manager of the Michigan State Fair appointed Mr. Wood to co-chair a commission charged with studying and making recommendations regarding changes and improvements to the annual state fair. In 2005, Governor Granholm appointed him to a newly formed Michigan Food Policy Council, which is charged with making recommendations on ways to increase economic development opportunities in Michigan's food sector while improving agricultural production, community well-being and public health across the state. Nationally, Mr. Wood was appointed by former Agriculture Secretary Earl Butz to the Rural Environmental Conservation Program Advisory Board. I know that Wayne Wood's heart will never be far from dairy farming, as he will continue to run his own family farm with his wife, Diane, his son, Mark, his brother Randy, and his nephew, Greg. On behalf of the people of Michigan's 10th District, and the farmers of Michigan and the Midwest, I congratulate Mr. Wayne H. Wood on his retirement and thank him for his tireless service.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 225th anniversary since the creation of the United States Customs Service, the oldest legacy agency consolidated into the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), within the Department of Homeland Security. The history of the U.S. Customs Service is in many ways the history of the nation. In the years after the American Revolution, our young Nation needed to generate funds to power its economy and rebuild its infrastructure. On July 31, 1789, the First United States Congress, in its fifth act, created the U.S. Customs Service, staffed by official Customs collectors. In this role, a Customs collector had the responsibility to supervise the collection of custom duties on imported goods in a particular city or region to enforce the newly passed Tariff Act. Customs collectors also oversaw the building of revenue cutters, to patrol our coasts, and lighthouses to guide ships to our ports, which was essential to the Nation's maritime security and trade activities. For over 100 years after its birth, before the passage of the Sixteenth Amendment, the tariffs collected by the Customs Service were the primary source of funds for the entire government, which paid for the nation's early growth, infrastructure and land purchases such as the Louisiana and Oregon territories. The responsibilities of the U.S. Customs Service would be reshaped and refocused following the attacks of 9/11. The Homeland Security Act of 2002 transferred the U.S. Customs Service in its entirety from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Homeland Security. Today, CBP manages the Nation's 328 air, land, and sea ports of entry. CBP officers, like their predecessor Customs inspectors, serve on the frontlines, securing our homeland from transnational threats, including terrorists, terrorist weapons, drugs and other contraband, while simultaneously facilitating the legitimate flow travel and trade across our borders. While the responsibilities of a CBP Officer have grown since 9/11, Officers continue to perform essential revenue-collecting services as when established by the founders of the Republic, and enforce hundreds of immigration, agriculture, and trade laws. The men and women of CBP are still making history. They continue to fuel our Nation's economy and support American jobs by facilitating legitimate trade and travel while keeping our borders secure. On behalf of a grateful nation, I want to commend the men and women of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their many years of service and wish them a happy 225th anniversary.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Chairman, recently, I met with about 600 farmers at an annual gathering in my district which we call Dinner on the Farm, where local farmers express their concerns over the negative impact EPA's proposed regulations would have on their businesses. The Michigan Farm Bureau actually showed me this map of my district which shows what could be subject to Federal regulation if the proposed EPA rule is actually adopted. And highlighted are the water sources that would be impacted. It actually excludes wetlands because then it would cover my entire district, including just about anything that includes moisture. Mr. Chairman, this is another shocking example of this administration trying to do an end run around the Congress and the legislative process with more overreaching regulations that will drive up food prices for American families. By stopping the EPA from expanding their scope and requiring the Agency to coordinate with States, this legislation will help to protect this Nation's agricultural community from Federal overreach that threatens their livelihood and ultimately this Nation's economic success.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, Ranking Member Robert Brady and I rise today to congratulate and recognize the outstanding employees of the Officers (Clerk of the House, Sergeant at Arms, and Chief Administrative Officer) and the Inspector General of the U.S. House of Representatives who have reached the milestone of 25 years of service to the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as the recipients of the House Employee Excellence Award. The House's most important asset is its dedicated and exceptional employees, whose work, which is often behind the scenes, is vital in keeping the operations and services of the House running smoothly and efficiently. The employees we recognize today are acknowledged and commended for their hard work, dedication, professionalism, support of House Members and their staffs and constituents, and for their contributions day-in and day-out to the overall operations of the House. These employees have a wide range of responsibilities and skills that support the legislative process, ensure the security of the institution, maintain our technology and service infrastructure, and contribute to a more effective and efficiently operating House support structure. They have accomplished many great things in a wide range of activities, and the House of Representatives and its Members, staff, and the American public is better served because of them. We recognize and honor the individuals named below for 25 years of dedicated service to the House. Collectively, this group has provided 325 years of service to the U.S. House of Representatives: David E. Bailey, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Cephas L. Carter, Office of the Clerk; Antoinette P. Freeman, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Anthony T. Howard, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Carlos Leon-Campos, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Michael P. Mallon, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; William B. Plaster, Office of the Clerk; Vincent H. Plowden, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Wallace A. Simpson, Office of the Sergeant at Arms; Susan E. Sneden, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Jerome B. Williams, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Waverly Y. Williams, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Diane E. Wilson, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. We also recognize and congratulate four House employees for receiving the Employee Excellence Award. This is a merit-based award, given to one employee from each House Officer organization, and the Office of Inspector General. Selected employees exhibited outstanding overall job performance and displayed a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty for their organization throughout the last year. We honor the individuals named below for receiving this prestigious award. Russell H. Gore, Office of the Clerk; Joyce L. Hamlett, Office of the Sergeant at Arms; Christopher Jordan, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; Susan E. Simpson, Office of Inspector General. On behalf of the entire House community, I extend our congratulations and once again recognize and thank these employees for their professionalism and commitment to the U.S. House of Representatives as a whole, and in particular to their respective House Officers and the Inspector General. Their long hours and hard work are invaluable, and their years of unwavering service, dedication, and commitment to the House set an example for their colleagues and other employees who will follow in their footsteps. I celebrate our honorees, and I am proud to stand before you and the nation on their behalf to recognize the importance of their public service.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the rule and the underlying resolution. Mr. Speaker, the ultimate law of our great Nation is not just the important work that we undertake here in the House. Above all else, it is the Constitution that we all swear to preserve, protect, and defend. Above everything, it is the Constitution. The first words of the Constitution, article I, section 1, are the following: All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives. It doesn't just say ``some.'' It says all legislative powers are vested in the Congress of the United States. No other entity of our Federal Government has the power to write law, not the executive branch or the judicial branch--only Congress. Article I, section 7 states the following: Every bill which shall have passed the House of Representatives and the Senate shall, before it becomes a law, be presented to the President of the United States; if he approves, he shall sign it, but if not, he shall return it. So if he approves, it shall become law. If not, he vetoes the law and sends it back to Congress. Nowhere is the President given the authority to rewrite the law on his own. Article II, section 3 places the following responsibilities with the President: He shall take care that the laws be faithfully executed. Mr. Speaker, this resolution asks the third branch of government, the judicial branch, to solve problems arising from the President's failure to faithfully execute the law and, specifically, aspects of the Affordable Care Act, as he is required in article II, section 3 and to have exercised power expressly given to Congress to write the law under article I. Mr. Speaker, the Founders, in their genius, put in place this system of checks and balances for a very, very important purpose, which is to make certain that no one person could both impose and then enforce the law--because that type of action amounts to tyranny, Mr. Speaker. In short, we have no king in this Nation. In America, we have a President. We do not have a king. Mr. Speaker, as a representative of the people of the 10th District of Michigan and someone who is sworn to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, I believe strongly that I have a responsibility to support this resolution, so that the courts can affirm that legislative power is vested in this House--the people's House--and not in the White House. As the chairman of the Committee on House Administration, I will have the responsibility to verify that any contracts with those who will litigate this case comport with the rules of the House. That is a responsibility I take very, very seriously. As such, many on the minority side have asked how much this will cost. My answer is that we don't know yet because no contracts have been negotiated. We don't know how long such litigation will take to conclude, but the questions I would ask are: What price do you put on the adherence to the rule of law? What price do you place on the continuation of our system of checks and balances? What price do you put on the Constitution of the United States? My answer to each is: priceless, Mr. Speaker. I am certain that this process will move forward with due diligence, will be conducted within the rules of this House, and it is my firm hope that in the end the courts will uphold the constitutional principles that are the bedrock upon which our great Nation has been built.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and to include any extraneous material on the bill under consideration.