Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4040. This bill would extend telehealth flexibilities under Medicare until 2024. These flexibilities allow physicians to be more widely available to patients who no longer need to wait weeks for a visit or take hours off work to sit in a doctor's office. While I support this bill, I am disappointed that the majority did not follow the regular committee process, which could have further improved the bill in a bipartisan way. For example, the committee could have incorporated elements of the Greater Access to Telehealth Act, which I am proud to co-lead with the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Schweikert) and the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter). This bill would extend the telehealth flexibility until 2026 and includes policies to support health savings accounts. But the majority did not follow regular order, and that is a great disservice to a commonsense bill like H.R. 4040. Regardless, and despite the procedural irregularities, I support the bill, and I encourage my colleagues to vote for H.R. 4040.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I thank Representative Carter for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Republican motion to recommit H.R. 3771. We can all agree that preventing myocardial events in Asian Americans and all populations is important, but the health of our children coming through the pandemic is critical. The Republican motion to recommit would require the Department of Health and Human Services to submit a report to Congress on the education crisis in K-12 public schools as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This report would include the total number of days schools were closed, the impact that school closures had on our most vulnerable population--which includes both academic achievement and mental health--and the amount of classroom instruction time that was lost. As a mother of two children, I understand how important it is for all kids to be in school and learning among their peers. Unfortunately, throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools had vaccine mandates, masking requirements, and virtual-only learning which has resulted in students paying the price through learning loss. The report to Congress this motion to recommit authorizes will provide us with the data that will help us move forward from this pandemic. Early in the pandemic there was a lot of focus on limiting people's interactions with others. However, by summer of 2020, I would argue that the risk of keeping schools closed and how to reopen them as safely as possible was known. In fact, this was widely the practice in Europe. As a physician and former Iowa director of public health, I recognize that children are at infinitesimally low risk of severe illness with COVID. In fact, in February of 2021, The New York Times reported that 86 percent of pediatric disease experts recommended in-person schooling regardless of vaccination status. In addition, a recent study found that grade-schoolers are at a lower risk than vaccinated adults. By using transparent data from the CDC, we can make the best decisions for students when it comes to in-person instruction, vaccine and masking mandates, and their mental health, given the startling rise in youth suicide. I believe that it is imperative for students to go to school and have in-person instruction. Our future leaders depend on the best education possible, which starts in the classroom. Let me repeat that: in the classroom. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in support of the Republican motion to recommit. As we are entering a new school year after 2 years of a pandemic, our students deserve to be back in the classroom among their peers. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of the amendment in the Record immediately prior to the vote on the motion to recommit.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to Steve Schleffer. I wish a happy 43rd anniversary to Mary and Kirk Ferentz on August 11. Happy anniversary, Mary and Kirk. On August 13, Kurt and Cathy Haller will celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary. Happy anniversary, Kurt and Cathy. I wish a happy birthday to Blake Dickerson. And I wish a happy birthday to William Ahlquist.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Michael Welsh of the University of Iowa College of Medicine. Dr. Welsh recently won the 2022 Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine for his discoveries of defects causing cystic fibrosis and his development of medicines that reverse those defects. Dr. Welsh has spent the past 40 years of his career researching cystic fibrosis and looking for solutions at the University of Iowa. The Shaw Prize is awarded to those whose discoveries in biomedical sciences have created solutions to illness and suffering. This is a remarkable achievement, and Dr. Welsh's research and discoveries should be highlighted. I am excited to see where his research takes him and those he inspires and mentors, and how the University of Iowa will contribute to the cure of cystic fibrosis. Recognizing Regina Catholic High School Softball Team

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Regina Catholic High School's softball team. Last weekend, the Regals concluded the State softball tournament hosted in Fort Dodge and won the 2A State championship title. This victory marks Regina Catholic High School's fourth 2A State championship in 11 years. Despite a difficult first inning, the Regals were able to come together, work as a team, and finish with a 6-4 victory over Wilton Jr.-Sr. High School. Madam Speaker, I congratulate both teams, as both teams are in my district. How outstanding that two of my district's teams would be in the State championship softball tournament. They put on a spectacular championship game, showing the talent that our district has at the State level. Madam Speaker, I look forward to cheering on both teams next year as they compete for another State title. Celebrations

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter) for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4551, the RANSOMWARE Act. This important legislation will help protect consumers and businesses from ransomware and cyberattacks. Almost every day, there are reports of foreign bad actors using ransomware to attack companies, hospital systems, law enforcement agencies, schools, and municipalities. Last year, the largest meat processing company in the world, JBS, which has a meat processing plant in my district, was hacked by a Russian-led cybercriminal organization. These hackers threatened to delete the company's internal files unless a ransom was paid. JBS was forced to halt processing operations at over a dozen plants, causing the price of meat to rise and impacting economies across the globe. We have also seen this in our municipalities and schools in Iowa, prompting us in the State legislature to enact legislation addressing ransomware attacks. This particular legislation will help avoid attacks like these by focusing resources to better understand the threat posed by attacks from our foreign adversaries in China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this bill, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Allowing Greater Access to Safe and Effective Contraception Act and against H.R. 8373. My colleague, Dr. Michael Burgess, has listed its many flaws, and this is an extreme bill from a desperate majority. I was proud to join my colleague, Representative Hinson from Iowa, in introducing this bill, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to recommit so we can bring this bill to the floor. This bill would make FDA-approved oral contraceptives available for over-the- counter use. In 2019, I championed similar legislation as a member of the Iowa State Senate that would allow women over the age of 18 to access over- the-counter oral contraceptives. As a physician, a former director of the Iowa Department of Public Health, and a mother, I understand how important it is for women to have increased access to oral contraceptives. The Iowa Senate knew it, too, which is why our State senate passed that bill with overwhelmingly bipartisan support, and it would have passed with only Republican support. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote against H.R. 8373 and for the motion to recommit. Madam Speaker, over the past month, the issue of abortion has been a prevalent topic in the news in light of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision. I am pro-life. Most of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are not. But regardless of our stance, we can all agree that we should enact policies to reduce the number of women who feel the need to seek an abortion. The evidence is clear. One of the best ways we can prevent abortions is to increase access to contraception. Research has shown us time and time again that if you make it easier for women to access oral contraceptives, you lower the rate of unplanned pregnancies. Providing over-the-counter contraceptives is safe and effective for women. Oral contraceptives were first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1960 and have been on the market since. But H.R. 8373 would allow non-FDA-approved drugs and devices. The ones that have been approved are safe and pose fewer health risks than some drugs that are already being sold over the counter. Oral contraceptives are one of the most popular methods for preventing conception and avoiding pregnancy. In addition, women use birth control pills or oral contraceptives for a variety of other reasons. They can use them for regulating menstruation, to prevent anemia, to prevent painful heavy periods, and to address acne. Making oral contraceptives available over the counter will also provide benefits to populations that have historically faced challenges in accessing healthcare, such as low-income, rural, and young women. The NIH conducted a study that compared women receiving oral contraceptives through a prescription to women who were able to get oral contraceptives over the counter. The results of this study indicated that women were more likely to continue taking oral contraceptives if they are able to buy them over the counter. We can also ensure that young women have timely and more affordable access to care, but we do not want women to circumvent getting their preventative healthcare. We can ensure that young women who are statistically less likely to seek regular care at a primary care provider OB/GYN have access to oral contraceptives, and we can ensure that low-income women who may face financial challenges in taking time off their job to attend a doctor's appointment still have access to oral contraceptives. I want to be clear that this bill is not an effort to circumvent the need for women to seek regular, preventative care. If oral contraceptives are approved for over-the-counter use, then women should continue to meet with their primary care provider, and they should continue to see their OB/GYN. It is imperative that women are fully apprised of any potential side effects of contraceptives and advised if they are at increased risk of potential side effects, but that is not what H.R. 8373 does. It does not protect women's health. In my experience as a doctor in caring for women, we are knowledgeable; we are capable; and we are not going to avoid going to a doctor merely because we can get drugs or medicine without having seen that provider for a prescription. So, I trust the intelligence and capabilities of women to make informed decisions about their own care. Let me be clear. Our oral contraception bill is pro-family, pro- women, and pro-life. H.R. 8373 is not. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to do the right thing. Vote ``yes'' on the motion to recommit and against H.R. 8373, and let's bring this commonsense bill to the floor.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, in Iowa, the official start of summer also brings the official start of county fair season. All 99 counties in Iowa have a county fair that brings together kids, families, 4H, FFA, farmers, and the broader community for their games, fair food, arts and crafts, the showing of livestock, concerts, tractor pulls, and also car races. The amount of work young people put into raising bottle-to-bucket calf, hogs, horses, chickens, rabbits, sheep, goats, and even llamas is incredible. They take great pride in showing their animals at the fair, and they develop tremendous confidence. There are also static exhibits, which are arts and crafts. At one of the county fairs, I met Wesley, who was going into the first grade, and he showed his pencil drawings, photographs, cupcakes that he baked, and also his corn for that group. He won 10 blue ribbons at the age of 6. The fair is such a great opportunity for families to get together and young people to develop the confidence they need to succeed in life. It is a wonderful summer educational opportunity packed with hands-on learning in a fun-filled week. I encourage everyone to visit a county fair in their own State, and I applaud all of our children's dedication, compassion, and work ethic.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague, the Honorable Representative Rodgers, for yielding me time. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 8296. The Supreme Court recently took the important and correct step to return the power to regulate abortion back to State legislators and voters within the individual States while recognizing the sanctity of life. This concept is so novel and repugnant to the Democrats that they would put forward a radical and extreme abortion bill that would permit abortion even up until birth for any reason. Only seven countries, including China and North Korea, are this extreme. As a doctor, I am knowledgeable that mid- to late-term abortion is a barbaric procedure which can include dismemberment of the baby and crushing of the skull. This is far more cruel than many of the laws of States that define prisoner abuse of convicted felons and what constitutes animal cruelty. It is a procedure done when the mother is given anesthesia, but the baby can feel pain. Madam Speaker, even though you cannot hear it scream, it can respond to music and respond to touch and the voice of its mother. We wouldn't allow animals to be treated this cruelly. Do Democrats think that this elevates women and is compassionate? Madam Speaker, I include in the Record an article from the Charlotte Lozier Institute. [From the Charlotte Lozier Institute, Feb. 2014] Gestational Limits on Abortion in the United States Compared to International Norms (By Angelina Baglini, J.D.) Abstract: The United States is one of only seven countries in the world that permit elective abortion past 20 weeks. Upholding laws restricting abortion on demand after 20 weeks would situate the United States closer to the international mainstream, instead of leaving it as an outlying country with ultra-permissive abortion policies. This report compares gestational limits in United States abortion law with gestational limits in the abortion law of the international community. The goal is to determine where the United States stands in comparison to international norms, with its federal policy enshrined in Roe v. Wade, which allows abortion past 20 weeks and without restriction until fetal viability. The sample group for this project included a total of 198 countries, independent states, and semi-autonomous regions with populations exceeding 1 million. Of these 198 countries, independent states, and regions worldwide, 59 allow abortion without restriction as to reason, otherwise known as elective abortion or abortion on demand. The remaining 139 countries require some reason to obtain an abortion ranging from most restrictive (to save the life of the mother or completely prohibited) to least restrictive (socioeconomic grounds) with various reasons in between (e.g., physical health, mental health). Currently, the United States permits abortion on demand through viability, which is usually marked around 24 weeks. For this report, it is appropriate to compare the United States with the other 58 countries that allow abortion on demand up to some point in pregnancy. The remaining 139 countries require some reason to obtain an abortion (that is to say, they do not permit abortion on demand) and are, by definition, more restrictive than the United States on the issue of gestational limits. To require some reason before obtaining an abortion is inherently more restrictive than not requiring any reason at all. This report finds that the United States is one of only seven countries in the world that permit elective abortion past 20 weeks. This finding suggests that current proposals in the United States to restrict elective abortions past 20 weeks would move the United States from the fringe, ultra- permissive end of the spectrum to a position closer to international norms. Terminology and Method of Comparison Not all countries or statutes use the same terminology when drafting restrictions on late-term elective abortion. When drafting a restriction on elective abortion past 20 weeks of pregnancy, the most common measurement of ``weeks of pregnancy'' is gestational age, or in short form ``gestation.'' Gestational age marks the duration of pregnancy, which is most commonly and medically measured from the date of the woman's last menstrual period. The woman's last menstrual period is the most identifiable date by which to measure the duration of pregnancy, and occurs approximately two weeks before conception or fertilization. The vast majority of countries in this international survey of abortion laws use gestational age to measure duration of pregnancy. Over 80 percent of countries maintaining some restriction on elective abortion use gestational age as the method of calculating duration of pregnancy. However, a minority of countries measures duration of pregnancy from ``conception'' or ``fertilization.'' One country measures from the time of ``implantation,'' which occurs approximately one week after conception or fertilization. Some statutes do not even specify a method of measurement, simply using the vague term ``weeks of pregnancy'' without indicating a precise method measuring the duration of pregnancy. Conception or fertilization is the moment when an ovum and sperm unite, which creates a unique human organism. The date of conception or fertilization is often difficult to determine, as few women know the exact date they conceived. Because the last menstrual period is a more ascertainable date, in many cases doctors add two weeks to the woman's last menstrual period to approximate the date of conception or fertilization. This report uses gestation to compare restrictions based on duration of pregnancy. More than 80 percent of countries already use gestation in establishing duration of pregnancy restrictions on elective abortion and measuring the age of the unborn child using gestation is in line with common medical practice. For those countries that use a different measurement of age, such as conception or fertilization or pregnancy, this study converts the measurement of age into gestation by adding two weeks to date back to the woman's last menstrual period. Using gestation as a common method of measuring duration of pregnancy restrictions on elective abortion produces a more meaningful comparison. International Gestational Limitations on Elective Abortion The sample group of countries for this project included a total of 198 countries, independent states, and semi- autonomous regions with populations exceeding 1 million. Of these 198 countries, independent states, and regions worldwide, 59 allow abortion without restriction as to reason, otherwise known as elective abortion or abortion on demand. The remaining 139 countries require some reason to obtain an abortion ranging from most restrictive (to save the life of the mother or completely prohibited) to least restrictive (socioeconomic grounds) with various reasons in between (e.g., physical health, mental health). Of the 59 countries permitting elective abortion: 9 countries limit elective abortion before the 12th week of gestation, 36 countries limit elective abortion at 12 weeks gestation, 6 countries limit elective abortion between 12 and 20 weeks gestation, 7 countries permit elective abortion past 20 weeks or have no gestational limit. 1 country maintains a federal system where abortion policy is determined at the state/territory level, and at least two of those states permit elective abortion past 20 weeks Australia is the one country where a federal system is in place, but abortion policy is determined on the state or territory level. Three states or territories within Australia permit elective abortion, and two allow elective abortion past 20 weeks. However, other states and territories of Australia maintain more restrictive abortion policies and some do not permit elective abortion at all. Due to the diverse range of abortion policy in Australia, from restrictive to ultra-permissive, this study does not include Australia, as a whole, as a country that permits elective abortion past 20 weeks. More than 75 percent of the countries permitting abortion without restriction as to reason do not permit elective abortions past l2 weeks gestation. Only 12 percent (7 out of 59) of the countries permitting abortion without restriction as to reason permit elective abortion past 20 weeks gestation. The U.S. is among these 7 countries that permit elective abortion past 20 weeks. This is true whether 20 weeks is measured from the last menstrual period (gestational age), conception, or implantation. No matter how duration of pregnancy is measured, whether by gestational age or conception or fertilization, or implantation, all countries in this category pass the 20-week threshold. These countries/ territories are: Canada (no restriction in law) China (no restriction in law) Netherlands (24 weeks) North Korea (no restriction in law) Singapore (24 weeks) United States (viability) Vietnam (no restriction in law) The United States is within the top 4 of most permissive abortion policies in the world (7 out of 198) when analyzing restrictions on elective abortion based on duration of pregnancy. Implications for Current Policy in the United States Under U.S. law, abortion on demand is permitted without restriction through viability. Viability can vary, and is decreasing in terms of weeks of gestation as perinatal medicine advances, but normally occurs no earlier than 24 weeks. Recently, in the United States there has been great interest in restricting abortion on demand after 20 weeks. Two states have had 20-week laws on the books since before Roe v. Wade. Eleven more states have enacted 20-week laws in recent years. A proposed 20-week law in Albuquerque, New Mexico failed to gain majority support in 2013 but was notable for the engaged citizen activism that resulted in the proposal being put on a municipal ballot for a direct vote. There is also interest at the federal level in restricting elective abortion after 20 weeks. In 2013, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a 20-week law. A similar law has been introduced in the U.S. Senate. Permitting abortion on demand past 20 weeks places the United States among the top 4 percent of most-permissive countries in the world based on duration of pregnancy restrictions on abortion. If the United States adopts a federal policy restricting elective abortion past 20 weeks, or if more states adopt such policies, the U.S. will more closely align itself with the international norm that limits elective abortion past 12 weeks. Policies imposing gestational limits on elective abortion have been overwhelmingly adopted by countries permitting abortion on demand, indicating policies that encourage woman's safety in limiting abortion to early pregnancy and policies that protect unborn children from pain and prolonged exposure to the risk of-abortion. Conclusions In terms of gestational limits, the United States ranks among 7 countries with the most permissive abortion policies. The clear norm among countries that permit elective abortion is to limit abortion to before 20 weeks gestation, and elective abortion is more commonly limited to 12 weeks (the first trimester). Twenty-week abortion laws in the United States are neither extreme nor unreasonable. Rather, they move the United States closer to international norms of legislating what is safe and healthy for the mother and what grants unborn children more protection in the womb.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues on every seat in every aisle of this Chamber to vote against this extreme, radical, and cruel abortion bill, H.R. 8296.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our PACT Act. When the House first passed the PACT Act in March, I spoke on the floor and urged my colleagues to find a bipartisan solution to give toxic-exposed veterans the care and support that we as a country owe them. This bill is that bipartisan solution, and I am proud to support it. As a 24-year military veteran, I have seen firsthand the effects that toxic exposure has had on my fellow servicemembers, whether it is herbicides like Agent Orange in southeast Asia or burn pits in the Middle East. In fact, my knowledge is so intimate that my husband, who is also a 30-year veteran, and I, have a close friend, Jay, who, after his deployment to Desert Storm, that very brief conflict, in coming back to the United States came off of the plane and collapsed. He developed a heart condition called cardiomyopathy, which led this 30-year-old to have a heart transplant, aseptic necrosis of his hip with a replacement of his hip, and soon his untimely and young death. Exposure to these substances can lead to severe life-altering diseases. However, under the current system at the VA, it can be extraordinarily costly, time-consuming, and in some cases, impossible for a sick or disabled veteran to prove that their condition is related to the toxins to which they were exposed during their military service. The bill we are voting on today ensures that this will no longer be the case. Under the framework created by the PACT Act, toxic-exposed veterans will finally receive the care and benefits they deserve and have earned. This bill ensures the VA will administer those benefits in a responsible, fair way. This new version of the PACT Act includes important reforms to build on the VA's existing framework for toxic-exposed veterans, and it ensures that the VA has the flexibility to respond and adapt to new scientific evidence on toxic substances. Importantly, it also ensures that veterans who are most in need-- those who are terminally ill, homeless, elderly, or experiencing hardship--receive their benefits immediately so they do not have to wait any longer for our government to act. Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support the PACT Act. This bill is not perfect by any means, but we should not allow perfect to be the enemy of the good. Make no mistake, this is a good bill for our Nation's veterans. I am proud to support this bill and I am proud to stand with the men and women of our Armed Forces.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the record- high inflation hurting working families in Iowa caused by the Biden administration. When President Biden took office in January 2021, inflation was at 1.4 percent. As of May 2022, inflation is 8.6 percent, the highest in 40 years. President Biden has been exclaiming that the rise in inflation would be a temporary problem, but the data does not reflect his claims. Inflation is hurting families in Iowa and all across the country. With food and housing prices increasing, families are having to make sacrifices to make ends meet. It is unacceptable for the Biden administration to advocate for more government spending that caused inflation rather than addressing these pertinent issues, such as rising prices. This rising inflation in fuel prices is hurting rural farmers in Iowa. Gas and diesel prices are now expected to cost farmers an extra $900 a year, and $500 to families, as well. I call upon the Biden administration to take necessary steps to address inflation, such as increasing domestic energy production and stopping wasteful government spending. The Biden administration's policies are hurting the families it is meant to serve. I would also like to take this time to wish a happy birthday to Michael Pinette, and I wish my sister Mari-Eleanor Martino a very happy birthday.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Maxwell Rantilla of Bettendorf, Iowa. Maxwell is currently a junior at Bettendorf High School. This past year, Maxwell joined millions of students across the country in taking the ACT test. This test is used by colleges to help with admissions decisions and tests students on their knowledge of English, reading, math, and science. Maxwell's commitment to studying paid off when he got a perfect score on the ACT. Out of the millions of high schoolers who take the standardized test, only 0.5 percent receive a perfect score. Maxwell is very involved at Bettendorf High School, qualifying for the national tournament the past 3 years in the speech and debate club. He is a member of the school band and the president of Bettendorf High School's National Honor Society. I congratulate Maxwell on this outstanding accomplishment. I know that this is just the beginning of his journey, and I cannot wait to hear about his future accomplishments and endeavors.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Ottumwa's Collins Clingman. Collins recently won gold in the men's 100-meter walk and the bronze in the 50-meter run while representing Team Iowa at this year's Special Olympics USA Games. Collins is used to the competition after participating in Special Olympics for the past 25 years, competing in multiple track and field events and bowling. As a fellow Hawkeye and Indian Hills fan, I applaud Collins' accomplishments in Orlando and representing Ottumwa and Iowa in the Special Olympics. I cannot wait to cheer him on in future USA Games. Recognizing the Accomplishments of Maxwell Rantilla of Bettendorf, Iowa

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6493, the Campus Prevention and Recovery Services for Students Act. As we are coming out of a two-year pandemic, taking care of individuals with mental health and substance use disorders, especially college students, is crucial. H.R. 6493, requires schools to develop evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies for college students and employees. H.R. 6493 requires both the Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services to identify and promote successful programs. As a physician and former Iowa Director of Public Health, I know just how critical evidence-based practices are for prevention of alcohol and substance use disorders and how life saving these practices can be for any student. It is equally important for college campuses and the medical community to come together to do what is best for our nation's students. I look forward to voting in support of H.R. 6493 and urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member McMorris Rodgers for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7666, the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act. This bill takes serious action to address mental health and substance use disorder, especially as we are coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am pleased that the House was able to come together to create a bipartisan solution to deliver real results to the American people, both adults and children. I also thank Ms. Schrier for partnering with me as we introduced the Supporting Children's Mental Health Care Access Act, which is included in this bipartisan package. This bill reauthorizes two grant programs that support pediatric mental and behavioral health services and interventions. Reauthorizing the pediatric mental health care access grant program is an important step in ensuring that our students have equal access to quality mental health care. I would also like to thank Representatives Axne, Bucshon, and Pappas for joining me to introduce the Timely Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Act which is also included in H.R. 7666. This bill increases access to treatment for individuals suffering from opioid use disorder. Opioid addiction does not have a timeline and does not discriminate. Patients should be able to begin treatment for opioid addiction as soon as possible. I strongly encourage all of my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 7666, the bipartisan, results driven, and commonsense Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Joyce).

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, certainly, H.R. 5274 is a small step that we can take in managing the crisis at our southern border, in addition to emphasizing border security. I thank Representative Joyce for his very astute observation that our law enforcement is at risk and for his bill to help protect those who protect and serve us. Madam Speaker, I have no further speakers. I urge Members to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5274, the Prevent Exposure to Narcotics and Toxics Act, introduced by my friend and colleague, David Joyce. This bill addresses the important issue of protecting our frontline Customs and Border Protection personnel from the dangerous and illicit drugs they encounter every day. This is especially important as the situation at our southern border continues to worsen by the day under this administration. In fiscal year 2021, Customs and Border Protection officers and agents seized more than 914,000 pounds of illicit narcotics, and so far this fiscal year, CBP is on track to seize a similar amount of illegal drugs. Unfortunately, in 2019, the Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General issued a report that found CBP personnel were not adequately protected and were at greater risk of secondary exposure while handling illicit drugs such as fentanyl and methamphetamine. CBP frontline personnel often work in challenging and dangerous environments as they risk exposure to these illicit drugs via inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, and contact with needles. H.R. 5274 will require the CBP Commissioner to issue containment devices, which are critical tools that provide protection against secondary exposure to fentanyl and other chemicals to help protect our frontline officers and agents. Madam Speaker, I strongly encourage all Members to support this bill to protect our dedicated frontline law enforcement at the border, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7174, the National Computer Forensics Institute Reauthorization Act. Our Nation is facing an increase in cyber threats stemming from multiple angles. These range from critical infrastructure vulnerabilities to child exploitation online. Previous cyberattacks have highlighted the need for preventive measures and law enforcement support at every level, including Federal, State, local, Tribal, and territorial. Many recent attacks and exploited vulnerabilities have severely impacted the American people and economy. Adding to this, with the ongoing war in Ukraine, the intelligence community is warning of a heightened cyber threat from Russia. The National Computer Forensics Institute in Hoover, Alabama, is operated by the United States Secret Service. NCFI provides essential education and training to State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges on how to mitigate, detect, and respond to cyber threats. Since opening in 2008, NCFI has continuously worked to equip its students with the necessary tools and knowledge needed to prevent cybercrime. Now, more than ever, as we are facing cyberattacks from malicious actors like Russia, China, and Iran, in addition to other criminal behavior online like child pornography, bolstering cyber training and tools for our law enforcement partners is imperative. Congress officially authorized the NCFI for 5 years in 2017. This bill reauthorizes NCFI for 10 years and updates its mission, function, and curriculum. In addition, the bill requires an annual report on NCFI's impact and activities, a requirements analysis for its potential expansion, and a process to receive feedback from participating jurisdictions. Cybersecurity has never been more important to homeland security, and it is pivotal that we train our State and local law enforcement to address this threat and other online nefarious activities head-on. Madam Speaker, I urge Members to join me in supporting H.R. 7174, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7777, the Industrial Control Systems Cybersecurity Training Act. In policy discussions following recent cyber incidents, like SolarWinds and Colonial Pipeline, one constant area of concern to Congress and our cyber defenders, like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, CISA, has been improving the Nation's workforce pipeline for cybersecurity and other STEM-related fields. As the interconnectivity of our daily lives continues to grow, the estimated worldwide cost of cybercrime has risen to $6 trillion annually. Despite this alarming and growing threat, some estimates say that the cybersecurity workforce is currently short about 1 to 3 million qualified professionals. A recent Center for Strategic and International Studies, CSIS, study of IT decisionmakers across eight countries found that 82 percent of employers report a shortage of cybersecurity skills, and 71 percent believe this talent gap causes direct and measurable damage to their organization. Federal agencies have been working to bridge the gap in skills required to prepare a future cyber workforce. CISA is collaborating closely with organizations like the National Institute of Standards and Technology, NIST, to identify cyber knowledge deficits on a sector-by-sector basis. One example is the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education framework, which serves as a useful precursor for directing Federal resources into education and research priorities. H.R. 7777 would require that CISA provide resources for the purpose of training cyber operators that are fluent across multiple segments of the cyber domain, not only information technology but also operational technology, like manufacturing systems and industrial control systems, which are commonplace within critical infrastructure sectors and are increasingly exposed to cyber risk. We must continue to do all we can to improve our Nation's cyber posture and focus on policy that can help make our government and private sector critical infrastructure operations more resilient and prepared for future events. Madam Speaker, I urge Members to join me in supporting H.R. 7777, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the feats of Lisa Hoerschelmann. Lisa has been an employee of First Gateway Credit Union for over 10 years and has always gone above and beyond in customer service and ensuring that customers receive the best service and advice for their accounts. Lisa's commitment to customer service paid off when an elderly woman was influenced by a scammer to withdraw a large sum of money from her retirement fund. Thankfully, Lisa caught the scam and prevented the scam from occurring. Because of Lisa's commitment to looking out for her customers, she was awarded the Consumer Protection Hero Award from the Iowa State Government. I can think of no one more deserving of this award than Lisa. Her attentiveness and quick thinking protected a member of her credit union. I am thankful that there are hardworking and thoughtful people like Lisa looking out for the citizens of our community.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of an incredible student athlete from Iowa's Second District. Iowa City High School's Ben Kueter is a local legend in eastern Iowa. He is a four-sport star for the Little Hawks, dominating in football, wrestling, baseball, and track. I have recognized Ben on the floor of the House twice already, as he is a dominant wrestler, a three-time State champion, and currently holds a 72-0 record going into his senior year. Recently, Ben not only earned a spot on the Team USA U20 national wrestling team and will now represent the United States at the world championships in Bulgaria this summer. Ben is an outstanding outfielder for Iowa City's baseball team and ran the second leg of the distance medley relay team that took second place at the 2021 Drake Relays. A standout football player, Ben plays both tight end and linebacker. Last fall, Ben committed to both football and wrestling programs at the University of Iowa. I look forward to watching Ben help the Little Hawks win State championships next year and helping our beloved Hawkeyes when he heads down College Street next year. Good luck, Ben. Go Little Hawks and Go Hawkeyes. Recognizing Lisa Hoerschelmann

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Bost for yielding me time to speak. I rise today to express my support for S. 2102, the Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas SERVICE Act. I was proud to introduce the House companion of this important bipartisan piece of legislation with Congresswoman Brownley. I thank Senators Boozman and Wyden for their work in passing this bill. The importance of this bill is that the United States Preventative Health Service indicates mammography at an annual level after age 40, and our veterans who have risked their lives and their health in service to our country are exposed to toxins and burn pits and need treatment and screening to prevent long-term health issues and at an earlier time period. Female veterans are especially at risk for several types of cancer, especially breast cancer. Female veterans are at a 20 to 40 percent higher risk of breast cancer, and female veterans who have been exposed to toxic exposure are at an even higher risk. As a doctor, I understand just how lifesaving early mammogram screenings can be. I have always told my patients that early detection is the key to successfully treating all types of cancer. This bill will allow for an earlier mammography screening for female veterans who served in locations with toxic exposure. This bill is in honor of Dr. and Marine Corps veteran Kate Hendricks Thomas, who unfortunately passed away in April due to stage IV breast cancer. Dr. Thomas advocated for earlier mammography screenings for female veterans that were exposed to toxic exposure. The bipartisan and bicameral SERVICE Act will give female veterans access to more screenings to stay ahead of this terrible disease. Today, as a 24-year Army veteran, I am proudly voting in support of this bill to protect and save the lives of our female veterans. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of S. 2102, the Dr. Kate Hendricks Thomas SERVICE Act. I look forward to a strong bipartisan vote today and sending this bill to the President to become law.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Bost for yielding me time to speak. I rise today to express my support for S. 2533, the Making Advances in Mammography and Medical Options for Veterans Act. I am proud to co- lead the House companion of this important legislation with Congresswoman Brownley. I also thank Senators Tester and Boozman for their work in passing this bill. As a doctor and as a 24-year female veteran, I understand just how significant access to mammogram screenings can be. The VA has estimated that among the women enrolled in VA healthcare, about 700 female veterans are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and the percentage of female veterans is only going to increase. This bill will ensure that female veterans have the best access to high-quality care, especially for female veterans that live in rural areas who are disabled and who are paralyzed. This bill will also create a 3-year pilot program to provide telemammography screenings to female veterans and will upgrade the VA mammography imaging to three- dimensional breast imaging for VA hospitals. In addition, this bill will expand partnerships for care, research, and clinical trials with the NIH National Cancer Institute and the DOD. Today, as a doctor and a former director of public health, I am proudly voting in support of the bipartisan and bicameral MAMMO for Veterans Act. This bill will enhance mammography and telemammography screenings, and I urge all of my colleagues to vote in favor of S. 2533, Making Advances in Mammography and Medical Options for Veterans Act. I look forward to a strong bipartisan vote today and sending this bill to the President to become law.