Doris Matsui

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule providing for consideration of the America COMPETES Act. As the lead House Democrat on two important provisions, I am glad that we are advancing a bill that would create jobs and support innovation for years to come. Almost 2 years ago, I joined a bipartisan group in the House and Senate to introduce the CHIPS for America Act. This bill established a road map for reasserting American leadership in the strategically important semiconductor industry. Since then, two things have occurred: The CHIPS Act was signed into law as part of last year's defense bill, and the need to fund it has only grown more severe as the global semiconductor shortage has dragged on. Thankfully, the America COMPETES Act includes the full $52 billion we need to comprehensively implement the CHIPS Act. This funding is about more than any one specific technology or industry. It is about securing a fundamental building block of the 21st century economy. Unfortunately, we have all seen the devastating consequences of this global semiconductor shortage: Factories have closed. Workers have been laid off. And prices have gone up. We cannot afford to wait any longer to get this funding into the economy, supporting new American manufacturing capacity. This funding is bipartisan; it is supported by the Biden administration; it will help workers; and it will increase our national security. It should be passed immediately. I am also glad to see the $1.5 billion included to support next- generation telecommunications networks by encouraging deployment of Open RAN technology. As an original cosponsor of the USA Telecommunications Act, I know this funding will support more durable supply chains and create opportunities for American companies to grow. I thank Chairman McGovern and Secretary Raimondo for their tireless work on this bill and look forward to supporting it on the floor later this week.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is with honor that I rise to recognize the American Legion Gung Ho Post 696 as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary. As the members of Post 696 celebrate this milestone, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring them for always providing exceptional services to WWII veterans and advocating for all veterans in the Sacramento Region. American Legion Gung Ho Post 696 was formed on April 11, 1946 by returning Chinese-American veterans who were unable to join existing posts due to the prevailing prejudices of the time. The Gung Ho name honors the Chinese phrase Gong he, which means ``working together.'' Despite having to form a segregated post, Post 696 wanted to honor these words and honor those who have died in service of the United States. The commonality of their Chinese heritage created a lasting legacy and a sense of brotherhood promoting compassion and charity for all in Sacramento. For seventy-five years, from the start of Commander Tim Jang to its succeeding and current commanders, Post 696 dedicated itself to promoting the mission, vision, and values of the American Legion in the Sacramento Region. Their long tradition of advocating on behalf of all veterans and providing services to many individuals has been significant and continues today. Gung Ho Post 696 members are leaders in our Sacramento community and have advocated for legislation and resources to benefit all veterans. They participate and represent Asian Americans by participating in the annual Memorial Day service and march in nearly every Veterans Day parade in Downtown Sacramento. Today, Post 696 welcomes all veterans to join and strive to promote goodwill in Sacramento. Madam Speaker, as the members of the Post 696 celebrate their 75th anniversary, I ask all colleagues to join me in honoring them for their service to our country and to the Sacramento area.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of patients across the United States and around the world who rely upon medicines made from donated plasma. October 4-8 is International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) and this year, 2021, has seen a continuation of the urgent need for more plasma donations during this difficult pandemic so that patients with rare diseases can be assured of receiving their treatments. This week, patients, plasma donors, and plasma collection centers will join together to observe IPAW via a range of events seeking to raise global awareness of the crucial need for plasma to create life-saving therapies, recognize that plasma donors contribute greatly in saving and improving lives, and increase understanding of the many rare diseases and plasma protein therapies that help to treat them. Plasma-derived therapies and recombinant blood clotting factors, collectively known as plasma protein therapies, are unique, biologic medicines that are either infused or injected to treat a variety of rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic diseases including bleeding disorders, hereditary angioedema, immune deficiencies, pulmonary disorders, neurological disorders, and infectious diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis, and rabies. Nearly 125,000 people in the U.S. who live with these rare diseases, as well as countless others facing trauma and emergency medical needs every day, rely on plasma protein therapies that are only available because of the commitment of dedicated plasma donors. Plasma protein therapies have significantly improved the quality of life, markedly improved patient outcomes, and extended the life expectancy of men, women, and children in every community across the country. Healthy, committed donors provide the plasma essential to manufacture these lifesaving therapies, and there are now almost 1,000 plasma collection centers in the U.S. that have demonstrated their commitment to plasma donor and patient safety and quality by earning International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP) certification. I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me and rise in commemoration of International Plasma Awareness Week, honoring those committed donors and collection centers who make and collect needed and lifesaving contributions.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the toughness and resiliency of the Japanese American soldiers of the four forty- second regimental combat team during World War II. Men and women who stepped up to fight for American prosperity while their families were simultaneously forced into confinement camps. This stamp, which displays their motto ``Go For Broke,'' honors the patriotism Japanese American soldiers exemplified despite the betrayal they faced at home. Under these charged circumstances, the 442nd proved itself as one of the most decorated unit of its size and length of service in the entire history of the U.S. Military. As a community with a shared, and at times, painful history, it is important to have a symbol. A national symbol of perseverance. Many Americans don't know the stories of their own family tree . . . they likely don't know the bravery of the Japanese American soldiers during WWII, soldiers of the 442nd and others, who helped save our country while our own government was tearing apart our families. The stamp will shine a light on this chapter of history. And to teach that we are all Americans. To see the United States soldier's face on the stamp, an Asian American face. This stamp is also the symbol of the tireless efforts of three wonderful women--FUSA Takahashi, AIKO King and CHIZ Ohira, who truly drove the effort to make this a reality. The story behind the creation of this stamp speaks to the dedication and strong fabric of the Japanese American community. This was a community-led effort, started over 15 years ago, that brought together many generations. I saw up close how hard it was to convince their fellow colleagues that this is important, to work with the community, to talk to their legislators. Just earlier this month, I had the pleasure to see its unveiling in Sacramento and speak to Fusa about the importance of this community symbol. We all shared our stories from that chapter of time. I know that many families who were incarcerated did not tell their stories once they were allowed back home. It was painful to be incarcerated, to live behind barbed wire and lose your homes, businesses and even loved ones. We remembered when our community stood up and shared our painful past with Congress and across the country, fought for redress and the Civil Liberties Act. We recounted the many efforts of educating our neighbors and our children, to remind them that we are everyday Americans and what happened was wrong. And now, recently, we understand how important it is to continue to teach about our history because people are hurting, especially with the horrific events that have targeted the AAPI community. Looking at the past, one thing we've learned is that we have to stand up for each other. As we continue to strive to become a more tolerant nation, we must do our part in overcoming societal wrongs, and we must also remember the strength of our nation when we come together toward a shared goal. The Go For Broke Stamp is a symbol of education, of healing, and of community. The Japanese American experience is a vital piece of American history, and in order to have a stronger democracy, we must lift each other up and tell our stories. I am glad that this stamp will serve as a reminder of the Japanese American story, and the bravery and patriotism of these American heroes.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about the importance of including climate change focused provisions in any forthcoming infrastructure package. My district of Sacramento, one of the most flood-prone cities in the nation, relies on modernized flood control infrastructure to protect against the threat of inundations intensified by climate change. Just last year, my home state of California experienced the wildfire season on record and this year, we are bracing for what will be one of the worst droughts in recent decades. All of these are testaments that the climate crisis is here . . . and we have no time for half measures. As we make the most consequential generational investments on our nation's crumbling infrastructure, Congress must prioritize bold investments in resilience, clean energy, jobs, and environmental justice while lowering our carbon footprint to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis. The President's American Jobs Plan does just that. As a leader in clean transportation and strong vehicle emission standards, I am thrilled to see that the American Jobs Plan will spark the electric vehicle revolution. The AJP would build a network of five hundred thousand EV chargers, replace fifty thousand diesel transit vehicles with cleaner vehicles, create a million jobs in the auto industry, and help consumers purchase the vehicles of tomorrow. These infrastructure improvements are critical to lower transportation emissions, the largest source of carbon pollution in the United States, and to decrease tailpipe pollution which disproportionately impacts communities of color. Further, the American Jobs Plan will help us meet this moment with a visionary agenda that elevates every community-creating at least 2.7 million jobs in the new green economy and investing 40 percent of infrastructure funds in disadvantaged communities. It is time for Congress to follow the President's leadership and pass an infrastructure package that will help us build a cleaner economy that values workers, communities of color, and all Americans who need environmental, climate, and economic justice. In 2021, we cannot address infrastructure without addressing climate change.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is with delight that I rise to honor a remarkable woman, Fusa Takahashi, for her outstanding advocacy for the Go for Broke Japanese American Soldiers of WWII Stamp. In 2005, three Nisei women from California, Fusa Takahashi, Aiko King and Chiz Ohira, began a fifteen-year campaign for a commemorative stamp that would honor and share the story of the brave Nisei men and women who served our country during World War II, despite the forced relation and incarceration they and their loved ones faced. This important history was deeply personal for Fusa and her co-chairs, as each were survivors of the forced incarceration. Fusa's late husband, Kazuo Takahashi, was an Army veteran of World War II. He bravely served as a Military Intelligence Service officer. The women's grassroots letter writing campaign began as a small but mighty effort, encouraged by friends and community members. However, through their hard work, the campaign quickly received support from national organizations, state leaders and Congressmembers. Fusa and her friends persevered through setbacks and delays, never giving up. In November 2020, the U.S. Postal Service announced a Go for Broke Soldiers commemorative postage stamp will be issued. The stamp was officially issued on June 3rd, 2021. Today, the forced relocation and incarceration of over 120,000 Japanese Americans through Executive Order 9066 is now considered one of the most atrocious violations of American civil rights in the 20th century. The Go for Broke Stamp is an important reminder of our history and a symbol of the tireless advocacy and efforts of Fusa, Aiko and Chiz, and all who supported them. Madam Speaker, today we honor Fusa, Aiko and Chiz's outstanding efforts to honor the brave Nisei Soldiers of World War II. I thank Fusa and her partners for their dedication and successful efforts.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule providing for consideration of Representative Chu's resolution condemning the horrific shootings in Atlanta and reaffirming the House's commitment to combating hate and violence against the AAPI community. Earlier today, I joined Speaker Pelosi, Representatives Chu and Meng, and others at an event to mark the importance of the steps we are taking on the House floor today. Together, Representatives Chu and Meng's bills make a statement of commitment to a sacred American value: celebrating our diversity as a force against hate and discrimination. As we honor AAPI Heritage Month, we stand amidst a reckoning on racial justice and discrimination. We must be intentional about how we uplift our voices, how we listen, and how we ensure dignity and respect throughout our communities. As the past few years have shown, hateful rhetoric can easily spiral into scapegoating and violence. Xenophobia and blame have proliferated, from the highest levels of government to our local communities. This cannot be overlooked. I have shared my own family's story of the consequences of inaction. The fear of ``the other'' is nothing new, but it has been chipping away at our social conscience for far too long. This is what we are working to root out. We must stop it at the source with a united front. Today's vote is a reminder that our country is capable of growth; that this legislative body will not sit in silence while a community suffers racism and hatred. Future generations are listening, and together, Americans are standing up and speaking out. It has been encouraging to see the cohesion amongst Asian Americans and all Americans in the fight against AAPI hate. I have been heartened to see individuals, leaders, and organizations come together to help heal our communities from these historical traumas and move forward united. I am proud to support this rule and this bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise to honor the life of beloved Sacramentan Irene B. West, Retired Principal of the Elk Grove Unified School District, City of Elk Grove, County of Sacramento, California. Mrs. West entered eternal rest on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at the age of 88. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Mrs. West. Mrs. West was a beloved California educator, community leader, activist, and devoted mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a longtime and very active member of one of California's historic religious institutions, Shiloh Baptist Church. Mrs. West was a supporter of, mentor and friend to many. The citizens of the Sacramento area benefitted greatly from her passion and love for educating our students; her dedicated service made our community and State better. Mrs. West was born July 3, 1932 in Crowley, Louisiana and was reared in Orange, Texas during the height of the Great Depression, a time when the racial climate in America was even more depressing for African Americans. Knowing the importance of education, she graduated valedictorian in her high school class in Texas. She then enrolled in undergraduate studies at the historic Fisk University at Nashville, Tennessee where she would meet her late husband, Clifton L. West, Jr. The couple relocated, in 1958, to McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento where her husband was stationed. Mrs. West completed her education by earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University at Sacramento and a Master of Arts from the University of San Francisco. In 1962, before completing her undergraduate studies, Mrs. West took on a seemingly insurmountable challenge, being hired as a teacher in the all-white student and faculty Elk Grove Unified School District. This marked the embarking upon a barrier-breaking 27-year career in education. She quickly rose through the ranks in teaching and administration to the position of Principal in 1979, a position in which she served for ten years. Although she retired in 1989, she remained a very active respected presence in and around the Elk Grove- Sacramento community well into her 80s. Despite her demanding career and devotion to serving others, Mrs. West's four children did not lack in parental love, nurturing and educational guidance. All her children excelled in academia, sports, or both, two of whom having achieved professorship at prestigious universities, and another is an accomplished Zoo linguist. A partial list of awards and recognitions marking Mrs. West's achievements include educational awards and citations such as Teacher of the year; newspaper awards which included the 1963 Mother of the Year (her most endearing recognition); awards from Allstate Insurance, Shiloh Baptist Church, Sacramento Council of Negro Women, Sacramento Chapter of 100 Black Women; in 1979, first female principal in the Elk Grove Unified School District; and, in 2002, the first African American in Sacramento to have a school, Irene B. West Elementary, named in her honor. Madam Speaker, today as family and friends of Mrs. Irene B. West gather to remember her, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her tremendous legacy of educator, encourager, and motivator. Her mark on the Sacramento area community will live on forever.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of two of my bills being considered under suspension today, the FASTER Act and the TRANSPLANT Act. The Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research Act, FASTER--which wasn't as fast as I wanted it to be, but this act will help to improve the safety of more than 32 million Americans, including 5.6 million children, living with potentially life-threatening food allergies. Under current law, mandatory labeling is required for major food allergens recognized by the FDA like milk, eggs, and peanuts. My grandson, Robby, has a peanut allergy, and for families like mine, accurate food ingredient labels are vital to making safe and healthy choices. The time we have spent reading the labels and having discussions about whether he can go to a birthday party or not, or go to camp or not, and having friends over, it was just heartbreaking. We need to have those labels be clear. Critically, the FASTER Act extends these labeling protections to nearly 1.6 million Americans allergic to sesame by requiring sesame to be included as an ingredient on a packaged food label. The bill also expands the research necessary to find new treatments and is an important step in the right direction to finding an eventual cure for food allergies. Today is a testament to the hard work of thousands of grassroots advocates who sent emails, made calls, and visited Members of Congress and staff to build support and make sesame the ninth allergen to be labeled under law. The outpouring of support was incredible. The FASTER Act will truly make a difference for those living with potentially life-threatening food allergies, and we are proud that it can now be sent to President Biden's desk. I also rise today in support of H.R. 941, the TRANSPLANT Act, my legislation to reauthorize the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program and the National Cord Blood Inventory for another 5 years. Every 3 minutes, someone is diagnosed with blood cancer. For patients and families facing these fatal diseases, a bone marrow or cord blood transplant may be the best treatment or only potential for a cure. Congress has long recognized the need to coordinate lifesaving transplants between patients and unrelated donors at the national level and has shown strong bipartisan support over the years for the program. We must continue to encourage donors and give these patients with otherwise fatal blood cancers a second chance at life. That is why I joined with Representative Bilirakis to introduce the TRANSPLANT Act. This past year, there has been a new sense of urgency for this timely reauthorization. We have seen how Be The Match's status, as the designated operator of the national program, has helped bone marrow couriers continue to facilitate transplants during the pandemic. We must act swiftly to preserve this critical designation and ensure patients with otherwise fatal blood cancers continue to have access to transplants, both during and after the current public health crisis. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation today so we may further prevent any lapse in funding. I support both bills.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule providing for consideration of the resolution before us today, calling on the Vice President to invoke the Fifth Amendment and remove President Trump from office immediately. Last week, members of both parties came to the floor of this Chamber to take the oath of office. In that oath, each of us pledged to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. I believe that oath compels me and my colleagues to act today. Last Wednesday's armed insurrection at the United States Capitol was a coordinated attempt to overthrow our democratic process with violence. Make no mistake, these rioters viewed the President's repeated claims of fraud as a mandate to act. Lies, misinformation, and demagoguery have consequences. Unfortunately, America witnessed those consequences last week, some on television, some under tables in barricaded offices, some in these Chambers, and some in the last moments of life. It is not with joy that I immediately called on Vice President Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment. I am cosponsor of both this resolution and the Articles of Impeachment because I believe I have an obligation to honor my oath and defend the Constitution against a grave domestic threat. On a personal note, I am taking this stand for the future of my grandchildren. Our obligation to them and to future generations is that this democracy stands. So, it is with sadness but firm resolve that I rise to support this rule and implore my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join me.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of two of my bills being considered today: the FASTER Act and the MODERN Labeling Act. There are more than 32 million Americans living with potentially life-threatening food allergies who rely on accurate food ingredient labels to make safe decisions for themselves and their family members. Under current law, mandatory labeling is required for major food allergens recognized by the FDA, like milk, eggs, and peanuts. My grandson Robby has a peanut allergy, and for families like mine, checking food labels is as vital to our everyday lives as breathing. Unfortunately, FDA labeling requirements do not include the ingredient sesame, leaving more than 1.6 million Americans with a sesame allergy in the dark about what foods and products to avoid. That is why I have been working closely with my colleagues and advocates in the food allergy community to advance the FASTER Act, legislation that updates food allergen labeling laws to include sesame. Importantly, the FASTER Act also lays critical groundwork for conducting the research necessary to better understand, treat, and, one day, prevent food allergies. From ingredients in a food product to the prescribing information for a prescription drug, FDA labels play a critical role in protecting public health and empowering Americans to make safe decisions. This year, our friends in the cancer community brought a real problem to my attention. Despite the important role drug labels play in informing treatment decisions, many generic drug labels are considerably out of date, and there is no existing mechanism to update these labels to reflect new clinical evidence. That is why I introduced the MODERN Labeling Act, legislation that supports FDA's ability to require modifications to outdated generic drug labels so they reflect new, relevant information. Accurate, up-to-date generic drug labels are key to optimizing use, enhancing patient benefit, and facilitating greater use of lower cost generics. These are both important labeling laws, and both labeling bills are bipartisan, commonsense solutions that take important steps to safeguard our public health. I urge my colleagues to support the FASTER Act and the MODERN Labeling Act.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a rule providing for consideration of several bills that will support pregnant women in the workplace and reaffirm our shared commitment to equity and diversity. Of these important bills, one stands out as personal to me: the resolution condemning all forms of anti-Asian sentiment related to COVID-19. For many Asian Americans across this country, the harmful rhetoric from the highest officials of our land is a painful reminder of our yet unrealized potential as a Nation. This pain is informed by our lived experiences. For me, having been born in a Japanese-American internment camp, I learned from my parents and grandparents the dangers of governing with fear and hatred, not acceptance and unity. If our country is to successfully contain the spread of this deadly virus, the Federal Government must demonstrate that every single American is valued and that their stories and lives matter. Americans of all backgrounds deserve to know that their government holds a fundamental dedication to their well-being. However, when our leaders use language that undermines our collective resolve, it diminishes public trust, undercuts public health, and harms families. This rhetoric does not align with the values we work to instill in our children, and it has no place in America today. This is an important statement for this Chamber to make, and I look forward to a vote on the House floor soon.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, over the past few weeks, we have seen the reports of decommissioned sorting machines, removal of postboxes, and the cutting back of hours for the U.S. Postal Service employees. In my district of Sacramento, I have never seen such an outcry, an outrage amongst my neighbors and constituents. This is serious business. We are feeling the effects of delayed mail delivery and seeing the real-life consequences of these operational changes: Financial documents are late; prescriptions are stuck in transit; and we worry about our future ballots being counted. That is why this administration's attacks have alarmed so many Americans. We recognize it is about more than just getting letters from A to B. It is about the fabric of our democracy. The Postmaster General has made his political preferences and business interests no secret. The U.S. Postal Service should not be manipulated as a political or business tool. Hundreds of millions of Americans across this country rely on the Postal Service for lifesaving medications, Social Security benefits, paychecks, and mail-in ballots. The Delivering for America Act will help ensure that those services continue as needed. This bill takes critical steps to halt the damage being done, while providing $25 billion to put the Postal Service back on track. While the Postmaster has recently claimed that he will halt operational changes until after the election, he has also stated he has no intention of recommissioning sorting machines and postboxes that have already been shuttered. The damage has already been done, and it is unacceptable. We must pass the Delivering for America Act to provide emergency funding and put protections in place to support reliable mail delivery for all Americans. As I said, this is serious business. The post office is important for the fabric of America.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule for H.R. 7617, the second appropriations package. The funding included in this bill will advance crucial priorities like increased broadband access, advancing medical research, and supporting police reform. These investments are necessary as we continue to combat the spread of COVID-19 and encourage economic recovery. By providing $61 billion in emergency funding to the FCC, we can expand internet access to unserved and underserved households. As schools continue to adjust to distance learning, I believe every student, regardless of their family's ZIP Code or income bracket, deserves a reliable internet connection to participate in the modern classroom. The rule also provides consideration of my amendment to advance breakthroughs in medical research. My amendment directs an additional $4.5 million to DOD's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program. This program funds high-impact projects, including medical research for rare diseases like bone marrow failure. Some of you remember we lost my late husband, Bob Matsui, to MDS, a bone marrow failure disease. Countless other families across the country rely on the Defense program's work to discover and develop new therapies and cures, especially for rare diseases. I am also very glad that this program dedicates $400 million in grant funding to help implement needed police reform. This includes pattern and practice analyses and independent investigations of law enforcement departments across the country. While there is still much work to be done, this funding will move us closer to an America where all are treated equally under the law. This is a strong comprehensive bill, and I look forward to supporting it on the floor soon.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the NO BAN Act. Today is about our commitment to the most sacred of American ideals: to celebrate our diversity. But this administration has embarked on a crusade to demonize immigrants and our Muslim-American community. Americans and their families have been targeted because of their religious beliefs, their race, and their ethnicity. Because of this bigotry, families and loved ones have been separated, unable to celebrate milestones or face hardships together. Madam Speaker, I stand here today because one of the greatest and most beautiful things about our country is the diversity of people, views, and perspectives. We cannot allow an administration to upend our immigration system and upend our ideals. We must always stand up and speak out. Madam Speaker, I remember my grandparents' and parents' stories about World War II, when they were ostracized and ultimately removed to internment camps. Let's not forget this past xenophobic history. Madam Speaker, I am proud to support this bill, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in honor of a beloved colleague and wonderful friend, John Lewis. I first met John when my husband, Bob Matsui, was a Member of Congress. Bob loved John. He loved him for his humanity, his conviction, and the fact that he was a total human being. I had heard so much about John because he was a historic figure, but I saw another side of him, too, when Bob brought him to Sacramento. He met many people. And I remember his walking across a university campus with the president of the university when he ran across, Bob and he and John, a bunch of chickens that the students were advocating to keep on campus. The president was saying: No. We have got to get the chickens out. The president said: Excuse me, Mr. Lewis, but we are going to get rid of those chickens. And John said: No way are you going to get rid of those chickens. I learned to preach by preaching to chickens. That is the part of John that I really loved, too, that humorous part, the part you can laugh with. But this gentle giant lived also every single day to overcome injustice, eradicate racism, and give hope to all who walked beside him. He is a total person. At this moment in our history when speaking truth to power is so vital, it is more important than ever to follow John's words, to ``stand up, speak out, and keep your eyes on the prize.'' John taught us all that America is greater than the sum of its parts. When you weave a rich, colorful tapestry, the weaving itself makes it strong. His impact will be forever felt in our Nation's conscience, and we are all better for it. At this difficult time, my prayers are with the Lewis family and all his friends. He will be sorely missed. I love you, John.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of this en bloc motion that contains a bipartisan amendment that I led with Representatives McCaul, Eshoo, Stefanik, Stevens, Joyce, and Katko to help reinforce U.S. technological leadership. As the global economy becomes more interconnected, it is essential that the United States maintains the ability to produce the hardware that our high-tech economy depends on. Semiconductors are fundamental components of our phones, medical devices, and the future of our quantum computing. This amendment authorizes $1.2 billion for research and development that allows our domestic industry to continue to innovate and thrive. Madam Speaker, I thank Representative McCaul for working with me on this amendment and our CHIPS Act, and I urge my colleagues to support this motion.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule for H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act. America cannot remain competitive in the 21st century without modern, efficient infrastructure. Unfortunately, our roads, bridges, airports, and schools are falling behind. H.R. 2 makes transformational investments in our country's infrastructure that will revitalize America's backbone while improving safety, reducing pollution, and getting Americans back to work. To address our crumbling roads, the bill provides $300 billion for construction and maintenance of Federal highways and bridges. In Sacramento, my hometown, this will mean money for more projects like the new I Street Bridge that will help move people and goods safely and effectively. H.R. 2 also provides provisions to reinforce our commitment to fighting the climate crisis. It provides more than $70 billion to expand renewable energy sources and strengthen clean energy infrastructure. Additionally, the State of California and transportation authorities in my district will benefit from this bill's funding to increase walking, biking, and public transit options, all with the goal of cleaning up our air and limiting human contributions to climate change. H.R. 2 also accelerates the use of zero emission vehicles and ensures we keep up with demand by installing necessary charging infrastructure across the country. In addition, to keep Americans connected to the internet, this bill provides broadband payment support for low-income households and the recently unemployed. The COVID-19 pandemic has required our schools to fundamentally change the way they engage with students, and H.R. 2 ensures children have access to digital equipment and affordable broadband options for remote learning. For America to remain the global center of innovation and growth, we must have 21st century infrastructure. This bill makes the forward- looking investments to help get us there.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Enhancement Act. This legislation is the collective achievement of House Democrats from across the country who are working to reverse the Trump Administration's health care sabotage by updating and improving the Affordable Care Act. This bill expands eligibility for health care tax credits to purchase ACA plans and encourages remaining states to expand Medicaid. These concrete steps will provide new coverage options to those navigating recent job loss and economic uncertainty. Critically, this legislation also empowers Medicare to negotiate a better deal on prescription drug prices, which will bring an end to price gouging of American consumers and finally allow people to afford the drugs they need. As the pandemic continues to challenge our collective public health and well-being, now, more than ever, American families need relief from soaring health care and prescription drug costs. I encourage my colleagues to support this effort to protect patients, expand access, and lower health care costs.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule for the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. I stand with those across the country who have lifted their voices, shared their pain, and called on us to enact meaningful change. With the comprehensive reforms of this legislation, we seek to fundamentally shift our Nation's failed approach of policing, an approach that, for especially Black and Brown communities and other communities of color, assumes guilt and normalizes racial profiling. We cannot remain complicit in a system that systematically oppresses people of color. We must acknowledge our repeated failures and proactively reinvest in community-based training programs. There has been plenty of time for discussion. Today, we finally take a step forward. My district of Sacramento is all too familiar with this pain. We are still mourning the death of Stephon Clark. There are others we have mourned whose families still seek justice. Yet, the resounding response of our community is wonderful. People of all races, ages, and backgrounds have marched side-by-side with a united voice to tell the Nation that we can and must do better. The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act is a step toward building trust between law enforcement and our communities. Through this legislation, we will ban the use of deadly techniques like the chokehold and no-knock warrants. We will end the Pentagon's program of giving local police departments military-grade weapons. The contrasting images of MRAP military vehicles overpowering civilian protestors have no place in America. We will create new thresholds of transparency, and we will require accountability. We will end qualified immunity that has prevented change in police departments throughout this Nation, and we will streamline Federal law to prosecute excessive force. America continues to find ways to right our historical wrongs. Together, we must fight for a more equitable future. This legislation is a positive step toward a safer, more equal, and more just America. I look forward to supporting this bill and others provided by this rule.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, this is a special week for the more than 32 million Americans living with potentially life-threatening food allergies. Food Allergy Awareness Week, May 10 through 16, is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges our food allergy families and friends face each and every day. Of course, this year's Food Allergy Awareness Week comes at a critical time. Our country is grappling with its greatest public health threat in over a century. The COVID-19 pandemic has made life even more challenging for most Americans, including our food allergy families. The New York Times recently reported on the lack of safe, healthy, and affordable food choices for allergic families. In addition, CNBC reported that the threat of contracting the corona virus is keeping people away from visiting emergency rooms. In ordinary times, a food allergy reaction sends one person in the U.S. to the emergency room every three minutes. During the pandemic, food allergy families have needed to change the way they prepare for emergency care related to anaphylaxis. Individuals and families with food allergies are resilient, and I have long been inspired by their courage to navigate life's challenges. That's why I have been working for the past year with FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), the world's leading food allergy advocacy organization, to improve the quality of life for the more than 1.5 million Americans allergic to sesame. Sesame is a common ingredient and is found in food like bread, cookies, and pizza dough. But many people don't know that it is also found in other items such as candy corn, ice cream, and sushi. Sesame's widespread use is why those allergic to it desperately need to know what foods it is found in so they can avoid this ingredient. Unfortunately, that information does not exist. Currently, sesame is often labeled as a ``natural flavor'' or as a ``spice'' on the ingredients label leaving millions of Americans unable to make smart and healthy food decisions to protect themselves or their family members. Thankfully, there is hope. Last year, I wrote and introduced the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act, H.R. 2117 that would require sesame be added to the list of allergens that must be labeled. It would join other common allergens like milk, eggs, and peanuts that are already labeled. The FASTER Act is the first meaningful food allergy legislation at the federal level in more than a decade and would change the lives for millions of Americans. The FASTER Act is a bipartisan solution that provides food allergy families with the life-saving information they need. I am proud to fight for food allergy families and during this year's Food Allergy Awareness Week, I urge my colleagues to join with me in support of the more than 32 million Americans affected by life- threatening food allergies.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule. The public health challenge this country faces is unprecedented in modern American life, and we have an obligation to respond in kind. The administration's response to this pandemic and the implementation of bipartisan legislation providing trillions of dollars in support require meaningful oversight. As our public health experts continue to recommend social distancing, this rule will allow the House to execute its constitutional obligations in a way that respects their advice and limits the spread of COVID-19. I also am here to support the HEROES Act. The additional funding included in this bill is needed immediately. The HEROES Act builds upon the progress of our previous bills by providing nearly $1 trillion for State and local governments to pay healthcare workers, police, fire, teachers, transit workers, and other essential personnel. It also increases flexibility in the PPP to help small businesses use money in a way that makes sense for them. I have heard from restaurants and small businesses across Sacramento that these changes are needed, and I am glad that this bill responds directly to their concerns. And to contain the virus, the HEROES Act provides additional resources for testing, tracing, and isolation, and ensures every American has access to free coronavirus treatment, covers the cost of COBRA premiums for 9 months, and opens up special enrollment periods for ACA exchanges and Medicare. As we come to fully appreciate the scale and severity of this pandemic, it is clear that additional support is necessary to prevent more deaths and job losses. Madam Speaker, I look forward to supporting this bill and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.J. Res. 79 and stand shoulder to shoulder with women to demand gender equality and justice. When I think about the future of our country and what I want it to look like for young women and girls like my granddaughter, Anna, I envision a just and equitable society with fair play, diverse leadership, and equal access to basic healthcare rights. That is why the equal rights amendment is necessary. For too long our country's structural barriers have cast a shadow over women's rights. With 38 States having affirmed their support for the ERA, we are one step closer to shattering those barriers. This resolution negates misguided arguments that because it is an arbitrary deadline, the equal rights amendment is effectively dead. It is clear from the recent actions of Nevada, Illinois, and Virginia, and our collective voices, it is still very much alive, and we will not rest until it is ingrained in the most sacred document of our Nation's history. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to stand with our country's women and support our right to constitutional equality.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise to honor the life of Pastor Itasker Hollins, Sr., who passed away on February 2, 2020 at the age of 82. His legacy will live on through the love of his family and friends. Pastor Hollins was blessed with the support of his family, his wife Julia, daughters Judith, Diane, Nancy, son Elder Itasker, Jr., their spouses, and grandchildren, as well as sisters and brothers, nieces and nephews, and church family. On April 20, 1937 in Dallas, Texas, Pastor Hollins was born the 13th of 15 children to Pastor Booker T. Hollins, Sr. and Missionary Viola Hollins. In 1952 his family relocated to California. Pastor Hollins met Julia in 1955 and they married two years later. They created a loving family of three daughters and one son. Many momentous achievements outline Pastor Hollins' career. In 1975, he and Julia began services at the Oak Park Methodist Church in Sacramento, California. He and his wife later formed the All Nations Church on Broadway in the heart of the Oak Park community. There, the congregation benefited from programs including a weekly food bank, annual home buyers' seminars, financial classes, jail and prison outreach programs, yearly prostate and breast cancer seminars, computer training, tutoring programs, and summer youth programs. The project was named ``The Miracle on Broadway''. The work of Pastor Hollins and his wife only continued to grow. In 2013, the Itasker Hollins Community Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with the Related California Corporation, built a senior complex in Oak Park. For over four decades, Pastor Hollins served the ministry, earning him recognition as a spiritual and community leader. Madam Speaker, today we honor Pastor Itasker Hollins, Sr. and his contributions to our community. His legacy will live on forever.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid for access to mental health services. Individuals with mental illnesses and addictions were among the largest beneficiaries of the Medicaid expansion. The mentally ill, along with disabled, low-income families, and older adults, will undoubtedly suffer if their coverage is reduced or taken away entirely under the Trump administration's new guidance to cut Medicaid funding. Block grants will shift costs to States, forcing them to make tough decisions about what services to cut, picking the well- being and care needs of one patient population over another. Not only is this plan unethical, it is illegal. And the American people understand block grants would hurt some of the most vulnerable amongst us. We cannot allow this administration to recklessly cause such hardship. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in expressing their disapproval of the Trump block grant plan by voting to support H. Res. 826.