Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to shed light on a critical issue that affects countless lives: suicide. National Suicide Prevention Month is not just a time of remembrance. It is a call to action. Mental health struggles are not a sign of weakness and seeking help should not be stigmatized. We must come together to support individuals in crisis, especially our servicemembers, who have sacrificed so much for our Nation. Let us remember that each life is precious and that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times. Reach out to your loved ones, check on your friends, and be the beacon of support that someone might desperately need. Together, we can speak out about mental health and degrade the barriers to treatment. This National Suicide Prevention Month, let us work hand in hand to ensure that everyone knows they are not alone and that help is always within reach. Together, we can make a difference and save lives.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable collaboration between Cold Zero Premium Spirits and Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery that embodies the spirit of giving back and honoring our veterans. Casey Maxted, a former Green Beret, brought together friends and colleagues from the military and cofounded Cold Zero in Swisher, Iowa. This year, members of Cold Zero Premium Spirits and Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery spent the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks bottling whiskey. Over 2,000 bottles of this special whiskey will be available, and each bottle is signed by one of six Medal of Honor recipients, including Cedar Rapids native Sal Giunta. As we approach Veterans Day, let us remember the profound impact we can have on the lives of our veterans by rallying around organizations and businesses who support them and are also veteran owned. Thank you, Cold Zero Premium Spirits and Cedar Ridge Winery & Distillery for your inspiring efforts to make a difference. I would also like to wish a very happy birthday to the most special man in my life, my husband, Curt Meeks. Happy birthday, honey.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Herky the Hawk, who this August celebrated 75 years as the beloved mascot of the University of Iowa. Herky embodies the spirit of the University of Iowa, representing the determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment of its students, alumni, and supporters. With his distinctive black and gold feathers, imposing stature, and fierce countenance, Herky exudes an unmistakable aura of Hawkeye pride. His presence at sporting events, campus gatherings, and community outreach activities has created countless memories and fostered a sense of camaraderie among Hawkeye fans young and old. As we celebrate Herky's 75th year as the University of Iowa's mascot, we not only honor a beloved icon but also recognize the enduring values, unity, and pride that make the University of Iowa a special place. Here is to Herky, a symbol of excellence and Hawkeye spirit for generations to come. Congratulating Kalayna Durr, 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kalayna Durr of New London in Henry County, Iowa, for being crowned the 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen this past August. The annual Iowa State Fair Queen competition takes place during the Iowa State Fair as county queens from across the State compete for the coveted crown. Judging is based on personality, leadership, attitude, citizenship, contribution to the community, as well as overall appearance, demeanor, and poise. After 5 days of workshops, evaluations, and interviews, Kalayna was able to beat out 103 other contestants for the title. In addition to the well-deserved crown, Kalayna Durr's triumph comes with substantial awards, including $8,000 in scholarships, a $600 gift card, a pair of cowboy boots, exquisite diamond earrings, an Iowa State Fair brick, and, of course, a sash that signifies her role as the State's ambassador of agriculture and community. Her reign promises to be a symbol of grace, intelligence, and leadership as she represents Iowa and its cherished traditions throughout her term as the Iowa State Fair Queen. Congratulations to Kalayna Durr on this outstanding accomplishment. Rest In Peace K9 Officer Kurly

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize retired K9 Officer Kurly who passed away at the age of 12 due to natural causes in August. Kurly served alongside Corporal Brian Schertz for 9 years in the Davenport Police Department. Kurly was more than just a dedicated member of the department. She was a beloved member of the community who worked tirelessly in the patrol division and contributed to countless cases on both sides of the river. In retirement, Kurly enjoyed long walks, playing, and spending time with the Schertz family. As we bid farewell to this loyal and valiant K9 officer, we express our gratitude for her years of service to the community. Kurly's memory will live on in the hearts of those she protected and the lives of those she touched. May Kurly rest in peace. She will be deeply missed. Iowa Football Kid Captains

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2023 Hawkeye football kid captains. Each season, the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital designates current or former patients as kid captains for each game of the football season. These kid captains, who have faced challenges that most of us can only imagine, will spend their game day immersed in the world of Iowa football, experiencing the excitement and camaraderie that comes with it. The highlight of their day, however, is the heartwarming wave they initiate, sending love and encouragement to the children at the hospital across the street. It is a simple gesture that carries immeasurable meaning, symbolizing their triumph over adversity and their enduring spirit of hope. This year's kid captains are Gracelyn Springer, Nile Kron, Maggie Larson, Gabby Ford, Wyatt Rannals, Max Schlee, Madi Ramirez, Bentley Erickson, Lincoln Veach, Chloe Dinkla, Cooper Estenson, and Nathan McDonald. As we cheer the Hawkeyes on the field this season, let us also take a moment to salute these kid captains. They are true champions. Two Iowans Returning Home After Circumnavigation to Eradicate Polio

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary efforts of two Iowans, Peter Teahan and John Ockenfels, who returned home in August after circumnavigating the globe as part of Rotary International's End Polio Now initiative. Their journey started at the Eastern Iowa Airport, taking them through 19 countries on four continents. Along the way, they engaged with local leaders, sparking crucial discussions about their mission. Their unwavering dedication to eradicating polio and the impact of their journey led to over $1 million raised for Rotary's Polio Plus Program, which provides vital vaccines to those in need globally. This self-funded expedition, costing approximately $100,000, served as a poignant reminder that the fight against polio is ongoing, and their efforts have brought it one step closer to its end. With ongoing donations matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, their mission continues to inspire and uplift, emphasizing that hope knows no bounds when dedicated individuals join forces to make a difference.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Laulauga Tausaga who became the United States first women's discus gold medalist at the World Athletics championship in August. Laulauga graduated from the University of Iowa in 2021 where she was the 2019 NCAA discus champion. In a stunning display of talent and determination, her throw of 69.49 meters to win the world championship marked a significant improvement over her previous best. Laulauga's former Iowa track and field coach, Joey Woody, expressed immense pride in her journey. He noted her unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of challenges, praising her as one of his best competitors the program has ever seen. Laulauga Tausaga's legacy is firmly cemented as an eight-time all- American, a regional champion, and now as a gold medalist at the World Athletics--the first woman. Mr. Speaker, I wish a very happy birthday to my husband, Curt Meeks. Happy birthday, honey.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to acknowledge the many stellar accomplishments the University of Iowa has achieved in astrophysics. The University of Iowa has been a longstanding leader in the field. They built instruments flown on 70 spacecraft in 60 successful missions. Between 1958 and 1998, the University of Iowa developed more spaceflight instruments than any other university. These instruments were used in the first observations by spacecraft at seven of the eight planets in our solar system. Iowa's technology produced the first evidence of Earth's radiation belts. Without the contributions of the University of Iowa to the field of astrophysics, space research would not be the same. Mr. Speaker, I thank the University of Iowa for their out-of-this- world work. Honoring the Life and Career of Johnny Lujack

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and career of the indestructible Johnny Lujack who passed away at the age of 98. In 1947, Johnny Lujack won the Heisman trophy capping off a college football career as Notre Dame's quarterback where he won three national championships. He was unanimously named All-American twice. He was named the 1947 AP Athlete of the Year. He also served our country as a Navy ensign in World War II. After college, he played for the Chicago Bears and he made two Pro Bowls. In 1949, Johnny Lujack led the NFL in passing touchdowns and passing yards. After retiring from football, he and his wife moved to Patricia's hometown of Davenport, Iowa, and ran the largest Chevy dealership in the State of Iowa. He spent the next 67 years in the Quad Cities and was a titan in our community and even served on the Board of Trustees for St. Ambrose University. He moved to Naples, Florida, in 2021 to be closer to his grandson, much to the dismay of many Iowans who missed him dearly. My prayers are with his family as they mourn the loss of such a remarkable man as Johnny Lujack.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, as a physician, I believe that we must support and utilize available medical breakthroughs. That is why I am proud to co-lead the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, legislation that would provide a direct line to chronic weight management medications for Medicare recipients struggling with obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity is prevalent in over 40 percent of adults aged 60 and older. The National Institutes of Health attributes obesity to an increased risk for health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and certain cancers. This bill would assist those struggling to lose weight and would help decrease comorbidities associated with obesity. I urge my colleagues to support this important bill. Accelerating Access to Care for Children

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Accelerating Kids' Access to Care Act. Iowa's First District is blessed to have the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, and this bill would allow out-of-State children to access our top-tier clinical trials, specialists, and care teams. Currently, children enrolled in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program must have an out-of-State care team be screened by their home State's Medicaid program, even though the providers have already been screened and enrolled in their own State program. This causes delays and can cause a child's condition to worsen, putting their lives at risk. This legislation would streamline the process by allowing providers who treat children and are in good standing to enroll in multiple State Medicaid programs for a period of 5 years. As a mother, physician, former director of the Iowa Department of Public Health, and a Congresswoman, I understand the duty to care for our children's health, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Remembering Burlington Police Department K9 Officer Paco

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember Burlington Police Department's K9 Paco. K9 Paco served with the Burlington Police Department for nearly 2 months and was in the process of being trained for assignment as our second K9 unit with K9 Handler Officer Gallegos. K9s are specifically trained to help members of our law enforcement, and their keen sense of tracking and detection are invaluable for officers. This is a sad day for the Burlington Police Department, and I will continue to keep the Burlington Police Department and Paco in my prayers.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding to me. This week or very soon we will be voting in support of H.R. 4368, the fiscal year 2023 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Supporting Iowa's farmers and rural communities is especially important as one in five Iowans work in the agricultural industry. This bill has many highlights that do just that. It continues very critical investment in agricultural research, rural broadband, and animal and plant health programs. It prevents the purchase of agricultural land by foreign adversaries and directs the USDA to focus hiring efforts on State and county offices to assist producers and rural communities. Additionally, it reins in harmful regulations that dictate how poultry and livestock producers raise and market their animals. That is especially important to Iowa due to the fact that we are the number one hog producer in the country and in the top ten producers for both cattle and turkey. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the bill. Another bill that we have taken up is H.R. 4366, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies bill. The Department of Veterans Affairs' mission, as listed on their website, is to fulfill President Lincoln's promise to care for those who have served in our Nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors. As a 24-year military veteran and a family of military veterans, that mission is one that I wholeheartedly agree with, and I understand the importance the VA has for so many former servicemembers in our Nation. Very importantly, this bill provides $299.496 billion for the Department of Veterans Affairs. It fully funds the healthcare programs, fully funds veterans benefits and VA programs, and also includes funding for electronic health record modernization initiatives. Most importantly, what I would like to point out is, in contrast to what the Secretary of the VA said earlier this year when he politicized the VA by sending emails to veterans service organizations, saying that the Republicans were going to cut funding, this cuts no funding to veterans or veterans benefits. That still remains on the VA's website and should be removed, and an apology should be issued. The appropriations bill that the House Republicans passed this week fully funds the VA and prohibits the use of funds for anything that is not beneficial to running a smooth and efficient Department. Veterans in my district are experiencing enough struggles accessing care from the VA. The President's politicization of the Department is not alleviating those concerns. We did the right thing by passing this bill, and I am proud of the Republicans for both cutting spending and fully funding our veterans benefits.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, this week, House Republicans will introduce H.R. 4366, the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024, to fully fund our Department of Veterans Affairs. As a 24-year Army veteran and chairwoman of the Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Health, I understand how crucial it is to have a fully funded VA Department. These appropriations bills will ensure that the VA has the resources needed to continue their vital operations. Current armed services members will also see a more than $17 billion investment that will go entirely toward improving the quality of life in their barracks and family housing. These commonsense policies will help improve the VA and the military as a whole, and I urge all of my colleagues to support them. Lead by Example

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, Iowans are experiencing one of the hottest summers in history. In weather like this, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable is top of mind for many, but it is also lifesaving. Unfortunately for us, the Biden administration is telling Americans that their thermostats should be at 78 degrees when they are home during the day and even higher when sleeping. How can anyone be comfortable in their home with the thermostat set so high? That is why I, along with my good friend Senator Ernst, introduced the Lead by Example Act. This bill would require the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency office buildings to be set to the Department of Energy's recommendation of at least 78 degrees, to set their thermostat where they are recommending it be set for you. Currently, with so many DOE officials working from home, taxpayers are paying to cool empty office buildings. Once again, do as I say, not as I do. It is outrageous that Biden's executive agencies are the exception to the rule, yet the Department of Energy is urging hardworking Americans to change their lifestyles without any consideration for varying climates or health concerns. That is why I am proud to join Senator Ernst on the Lead by Example Act, and I encourage all of my colleagues to support it. Honoring the Life and Memory of Former Hawkeye Football Player Cody Ince

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory of former Hawkeye football player Cody Ince, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 23. Before Cody became a Hawkeye, he grew up in Wisconsin playing football and he graduated from Unity High School in Balsam Lake. In 2018, Cody came to Iowa City to be an offensive lineman for Hawkeye football and helped the team earn a winning record all three seasons he played. Cody also received the All-Big Ten honorable mention in 2020, an honor given to standout players for their accomplishments on the field. After graduating in 2022, Cody moved back to Wisconsin and got engaged to his fiancee, Olivia, where they were preparing to start their life together before his sudden passing. My prayers go out to Olivia and his parents Tammy and Marty. I cannot imagine the pain of losing a child. I will continue to pray for their family in this time of mourning. Congratulations to Annelise Bell

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I will take a moment to congratulate Annelise Bell, a student at Pella Christian High School on her recent Team USA placement at the world championships. She placed second among the Female Solo Junior 1 Division at the International Dance Organization's World Acrobatic Dance Championships in Mexico this past week. The International Dance Organization is a nonprofit dance federation with over 90 member nations representing dancers from all continents. Annelise is such a talented young lady. I thank her for representing the United States and Iowa well. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy anniversary to my district representative John Kaufmann and his wife Rachel on their second wedding anniversary on July 31. Happy anniversary, John and Rachel. Happy 40th wedding anniversary to my very good friends Kurt and Kathy Haller on August 13. Happy 44th wedding anniversary to Mary and Kirk Ferentz this August. I especially wish a very happy 40th anniversary on September 4 to my husband, Curt. Happy anniversary, honey.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I recognize Pella Corporation of Pella, Iowa, for being named one of ``America's Greatest Workplaces of 2023'' by Newsweek. This designation focuses on categories such as professional development, job satisfaction, compensation, work-life balance, and other categories. Pella has been a mainstay in our community for 98 years, a family-owned business, and employs over 10,000 people nationwide. Pella is one of the most innovative companies in the United States and has over 150 patents. They actively work to create space for professional development and employee empowerment. Congratulations to Pella Corporation for this recognition, and I thank them for continuing to make our community proud. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy 20th anniversary to my sister and brother-in-law, Mari-Eleanor and Ralph Martino on September 6. Happy anniversary, Mari-Eleanor and Ralph. I extend first anniversary wishes to Taylor, my daughter, and her husband David Lazarowitz on September 4. Happy anniversary to Taylor and David.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, my good friend Senator Chuck Grassley said it best when he said: There is deeply rooted political infection in the FBI. We can see this rot play out every single day when the FBI decides who they will and will not pursue. They targeted parents who showed up to school board meetings to hold their elected officials accountable and to speak up for their children. They targeted pro-life Americans who exercised their First Amendment right to peacefully protest and arrested them in front of their children. They rushed to investigate claims of Russian collusion--despite lapses and a bogus FISA warrant--even when those claims were not backed up the evidence. Yet, when dealing with Hunter Biden, the DOJ and the FBI chose to go easy on him and gave him a sweetheart plea deal, leaving him unlikely to go to jail. It must be nice. We have simply lost confidence in The Bureau and serious changes must be made by Director Chris Wray to root out favoritism and double standards so the American people can have faith in their institutions again. Mr. Speaker, I also wish my young friends Kurt and Cathy Haller a milestone 40th wedding anniversary. Happy 40th anniversary, Kurt and Cathy.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, today the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability heard the testimony of two IRS whistleblowers who revealed how the Department of Justice interfered in the investigation of the foreign business dealings of the Biden family. During this oversight hearing, we learned that Hunter Biden received money from China and other countries. Today's hearing made it apparent that there are two sets of rules in this country, one for the Biden family and another for the rest of us. If people in my district did even a small amount of what Hunter Biden did, they would have to serve time in jail. Instead of receiving full accountability from our Justice Department, the two IRS whistleblowers confirmed that the Attorney General was not impartial in its investigation. Further, they revealed that President Biden not only knew about Hunter Biden's corrupt foreign business deals, but he was in the room for the deals. Hunter Biden, with the full knowledge and participation of then-Vice President Biden, leveraged his family name during these shady business deals, which is absolutely an abuse of power and not an appropriate use of the Office of the Vice President. If the Department of Justice will not do its job and complete a thorough investigation, then it is up to Congress to employ the accountability needed. Iowans want to have full faith in our criminal justice system, and that starts with an equal application of the law. Madam Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to my brother-in-law, Ralph Martino. Happy birthday, Ralph.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, last month, the House passed my resolution condemning the use of school facilities to shelter illegal immigrants. This week, the House will take up H.R. 3941, the Schools Not Shelters Act, to officially strip Federal funds from those who allow our schools to be used as hotels instead of schools. New York City Mayor Eric Adams claims there are over 51,800 illegal immigrants in the city's care who need housing. The fact that so many illegal aliens have made it all the way to New York is a direct reflection of the state of our border crisis, and municipalities should not be tasked with fixing this problem. Since the Biden administration refuses to address the border crisis, we must take action in Congress and fight for America's children. After all, how can we feed America's children in cafeterias of schools if they are housing illegal immigrants? Mr. Speaker, I applaud Representative Molinaro for bringing this important piece of legislation to the floor this week, and I look forward to voting for its passage.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, July is National Parks and Recreation Month. There are many parks in Iowa's First Congressional District, four national parks, from the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site to the many State parks, such as Lake Macbride State Park or the Maquoketa Caves State Park. These parks provide opportunities for exercise or relaxation with friends and family. I am proud to have sponsored the Alexander Lofgren Veterans in Parks Act, which unanimously passed the House last Congress. This legislation provides free lifetime access to national parks and Federal recreational lands for our honorable veterans, Active-Duty military, and Gold Star families. I encourage all Iowans to explore Iowa's natural beauty and appreciate God's creation this month and every month. Support for Oral Contraceptives

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I take this time to congratulate the 17U Six Pack Volleyball Club from northeast Iowa, for winning the 2023 USAV Junior National Championship in Chicago last week. The team went a perfect 11-0 as they claimed the national division title. This team showed unbelievable talent throughout the tournament, showing dedication and overcoming adversity in all aspects of the game. I congratulate Coach Grassley and the entire team, especially Emma Stammeyer of Iowa City West High School in Iowa's First District. You- all made Iowa proud. Recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the State of Israel

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of the State of Israel. This week, Congress welcomes Israeli President Isaac Herzog to commemorate this milestone and speak about the special relationship between our two nations. After the horrors of the Holocaust, the Jewish people fled to their homeland and declared Israel a nation. The United States was the first country to recognize Israel as a nation. The United States has been paving the way for an everlasting friendship. For the past 75 years, Israel has been a crucial partner and a shining beacon of democracy in the Middle East. With anti-Semitism and anti-Israeli hate at home and abroad rising, it is now more important than ever that the United States stand with Israel. I am honored to welcome President Herzog to Washington, D.C., and I look forward to continuing our enduring partnership. National Parks and Recreation Month