Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Nurses Week, which takes place from May 6 to May 12 every year. In 1974, President Nixon declared that one week in May should be dedicated to our amazing nurses. Then in 1993, the American Nurses Association board of directors declared that May 6 through May 12 would be the official dates, coinciding with National Nurses Day on May 6 and Florence Nightingale's birthday on May 12. As someone who has dedicated their life to healthcare and public service and was a former nurse before becoming a physician and married to a nurse, I can confidently say that our nurses are community heroes. The sacrifices they make for the well-being of our communities are commendable. Let's take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to these dedicated healthcare heroes and thank them for their unwavering care and compassion. celebrating national police week

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Police Week. National Police Week stands as a beacon of honor, remembrance, and solidarity, allowing us to pay homage to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Since its inception in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, this week holds profound significance as we commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and the surrounding days as Police Week. It is a time when tens of thousands of law enforcement officers, survivors, and citizens converge on our Nation's Capital to partake in events that honor and remember our fallen heroes. National Police Week isn't just a commemoration; it is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who wear the badge. It is a reminder that the sacrifices made by our law enforcement officers will never be forgotten. Let us stand together in gratitude and solidarity, honoring the heroes who have given their all for the safety and well-being of others. In Iowa, we will always back the blue. Honoring Coach Lisa Bluder

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incomparable career and influence of Iowa women's basketball Coach Lisa Bluder, who announced her retirement from coaching this week. In her 24-year career coaching the Hawkeyes, she has led the team to five Big 10 tournament championships and two Final Fours. She is finishing her tenure as the Big Ten's winningest women's basketball coach of all time. Her wide-ranging influence over women's basketball is undeniable, and her time spent mentoring and molding young women into this generation's elite assembly of athletes is worthy of the utmost commendation. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Coach Bluder's immaculate career and in wishing her well on a well-earned retirement. As always, go Hawkeyes, and I congratulate Coach Bluder.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Representative Bilirakis, for yielding me time to enthusiastically support my legislation, H.R. 5390, the Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act. As we gather on the House floor, the urgency of this legislation has only intensified since its consideration in committee, and the challenges facing our manufacturing sector grow more acute. The global supply chain disruptions that have plagued us in recent years, especially during the pandemic, have not abated. If anything, they have deepened. Record-level inflation and the specter of foreign adversaries exerting undue influence over our vital industries loom even larger. Our dependence on foreign sources for critical goods is a vulnerability we can ill afford. The concentration of supply chains in the hands of nations like China or the Chinese Communist Party leaves us exposed to the whims of geopolitical forces beyond our control. It imperils not just our economic prosperity but our national security, as well. In the face of these threats, the imperative for action is clear. We must strengthen our domestic supply chain resiliency, bolstering our capacity to manufacture essential goods right here at home. H.R. 5390 represents a crucial step in this direction. By directing the Secretary of Commerce to explore the feasibility of manufacturing critical infrastructure goods within our borders, particularly in rural communities like those in Iowa, this bill charts a course toward greater self-reliance and security. Let us be clear: This is not just about mitigating risk. It is about seizing opportunity. By investing in domestic manufacturing, we can revitalize communities, create good-paying jobs, and unleash the innovative potential of the American workforce. This legislation is not a panacea, nor does it claim to be. It is a starting point, a declaration of our intent to reclaim control over our economic destiny. It is a vital starting point, one that merits our full-throated support. I am proud to have joined forces with my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan bill. Let us stand together in support of H.R. 5390, and in doing so, let us reaffirm our commitment to the strength and resilience of the American economy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for this critical legislation.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Military Appreciation Month. With 24 years of service in the Army and now representing a congressional district with a significant Active-Duty and veteran population, I am deeply honored to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of our Nation's heroes. Military Appreciation Month was proposed by the late Senator John McCain in February 1999. Two months later, Congress voted to officially designate May as the nationally recognized period for honoring the military, culminating with Memorial Day. Across the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force, there are more than 2.8 million servicemembers worldwide tasked with protecting the freedoms we enjoy here at home. Mr. Speaker, I thank all those who serve and have served. May God bless them, and may God bless the United States of America. Honoring Iowa's First Responders and Red Cross

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the first responders across Iowa who were on the front lines following the recent tornado outbreaks across the State. As Iowans, we are no strangers to severe weather. Every summer, we do what we can to prepare for the inevitable derecho, floods, severe thunderstorms, and potential tornadoes. While we prepare for the worst, Iowa's first responders are the heroes on the ground, quickly jumping into action for people impacted by the horrific storms. Without our first responders, severe weather events like the ones so many Iowans experienced on April 26 would be much more catastrophic and deadly. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending these brave heroes and thanking them for their unbreaking commitment to the safety of all Iowans and all Americans. Congratulating Nurse Wendy Donald

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wendy Donald, who was named School Nurse of the Year for 2024 by the Iowa School Nurse Organization. With more than 25 years of nursing experience and 7 years serving the Muscatine School District, Wendy's dedication shines through. She advocates tirelessly for the inclusion of school nurses in decisionmaking processes and collaborates with educators, parents, and healthcare professionals to meet the diverse needs of our students. Wendy's proactive approach extends beyond the school walls, working closely with local healthcare providers to promote community health. Her initiatives, such as raising funds for children in the ER, exemplify her innovative thinking and compassion. As a former nurse, I certainly recognize these attributes. Let's recognize Wendy's profound impact on our community. I congratulate Wendy on this well-deserved recognition, and I thank her for her service and for inspiring us all. National Skilled Trades Day

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Skilled Trades Day, which took place on May 1 this year. In Iowa and across the Nation, our skilled tradespeople aren't just contributors to the economy, they are the heartbeat of our communities, shaping our infrastructure and crafting the world we live in. From carpenters shaping our homes to HVAC technicians keeping us comfortable, these individuals are the unsung heroes of our local communities. Today, I stand proud to honor their contributions and reaffirm my commitment to champion their interests in Congress. Let us continue to support and celebrate the skilled trades, ensuring that future generations can pursue these fulfilling and essential careers. Celebrating Newly Drafted Iowa Hawkeyes

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Iowa Hawkeyes Cooper DeJean, Erick All, Tory Taylor, and Logan Lee for recently being drafted into the National Football League. Iowa is world-renowned for cultivating athletic talent, and these elite athletes will join 37 other Hawkeyes currently playing in the NFL. Coach Kirk Ferentz and the entire crew at the University of Iowa have worked tirelessly in support of these players and in their journeys to the premier league in football. Coach Ferentz and his team deserve the utmost credit for developing a first-class program that makes good players into great players and winners into champions. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating these four drafted players and all of the Hawkeyes making their way to the NFL. By the way, it wasn't a fair catch. As always, Go Hawkeyes.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the anti- Semitic and anti-Jewish, pro-Hamas demonstrators who, amidst Passover, are wreaking havoc on campuses around the country and threatening violence against local Jewish communities and students. Such violence is unacceptable anywhere, but to witness this at our universities is truly painful. Places of education are supposed to be of discourse and of learning and rising above, and all those who choose to attend deserve peace and respect. My heart goes out to all of the Jewish students who no longer feel safe at American universities. They deserve better than this. Mr. Speaker, the purveyors of anti-Semitism must be stopped. I ask my colleagues to join me in condemning these anti-Semitic protesters and continue the push to combat anti-Semitism and stand with our Jewish friends and neighbors. Recognizing Elivia Papcun's Equestrian Abilities

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Elivia Papcun, an Iowa native, who overcame a severe injury to become a top-ranked NCAA equestrian recruit. Just a short while ago, Elivia had an accident that shook her to her core. As she rode her beloved horse, a moment of misfortune turned into a nightmare as her horse stumbled, leaving Elivia critically injured. The severity of her injuries left her unable to move, her very future hanging in the balance. However, Elivia refused to give up. With each passing day, she fought tirelessly to reclaim her strength and through grueling rehabilitation and unwavering determination, she defied the odds and emerged stronger than ever before. Elivia has recently reentered and committed to Texas Christian University. This commitment is akin to being recruited to play football at Alabama or Georgia in the equestrian world. It underscores not only Elivia's remarkable talent and dedication, but also the recognition of her potential by one of the top programs in the Nation. Mr. Speaker, let us commend Elivia Papcun for her remarkable journey and wish her continued success as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. Recognizing 911 Operators Amy Kemner and Kris Decker

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Warren County 911 dispatchers Amy Kemner and Kris Decker for their 30 years of service to their community. Despite the long shifts, difficult calls, and extended time away from family, Amy and Kris have remained dedicated to their work of ensuring the safety of Warren County residents. While the average tenure of a dispatcher is only 7 years, Amy and Kris have taken pride in serving Warren County. Their long tenures, while an anomaly in their field, are a reminder of the worthwhile pursuit of community service. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Amy and Kris for their ever-present service to their community and thank them for being the front line of defense when emergency calls. Honoring Fire Chief Greg Chia on his Retirement

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Indianola Fire Chief Greg Chia, who recently announced his retirement, which is set to take effect on December 31, 2024. Chief Chia originally began his career in 1985 as a firefighter in Des Moines, and throughout his tenure worked up the ranks to reach chief officer. In May 2015, Chief Chia was appointed to become the first fire chief for Indianola and has since led the response to multiple crises with poise and gravitas. Under his leadership, the Indianola Fire Department has served as an illustrative example of top-notch community safety, and his absence will be felt by many. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues today to join me in celebrating Chief Chia's incredible career and his commitment to safety and in wishing him the best on a well-deserved retirement. Iowa City Farmers Market

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the return of the Iowa City Farmers Market for its 52nd year on May 4, and to congratulate Bill Lane on being appointed director of the Iowa City Farmers Market. In recent years, the Iowa City Farmers Market has become a cultural staple in town with the market welcoming tens of thousands of residents yearly. The market puts Iowa's rich agricultural history on display for everyone with countless local vendors, serving a wide variety of Iowa's best agricultural products. With live music and activities for everyone to enjoy as well, the Iowa City Farmers Market is sure to enjoy another amazing year as a preeminent venue for residents to shop, dine, and enjoy time with friends and family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this phenomenal Iowa City staple and, once again, congratulate director Bill Lane on what is sure to be another great year for the Iowa City Farmers Market.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair Kiggans for the opportunity to speak. I stand before you today in support of H.R. 3722, the Daniel J. Harvey, Jr. and Adam Lambert Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act, which is co-led by my colleague from Iowa, Representative Zach Nunn. Our brave men and women in uniform have sacrificed immeasurably to defend our Nation and uphold our freedoms, and as a 24-year veteran, I know only too well that when they return home, many face significant challenges transitioning back to civilian life. Too often, these challenges lead to tragic outcomes, including the heartbreaking reality of veteran suicide. This bipartisan bill presents an opportunity for us to take meaningful action to address this crisis. By implementing a pilot program to enhance the pre-separation transition process for our servicemembers, we can provide them with the necessary support and resources to navigate this challenging period successfully. The proposed model outlined in this bill offers comprehensive education on the potential risks and challenges facing our transitioning servicemembers, including issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, and homelessness. Additionally, it provides vital information on available resources and treatment options through the Department of Veterans Affairs and other organizations. Furthermore, by offering individualized services such as assessments of eligibility for VA healthcare and counseling and coordination of healthcare based on individual needs, we can ensure that our veterans receive the support they deserve as they reintegrate back into civilian life. This is not a partisan issue; it is a moral imperative. We must always stand for our military and honor our veterans. By supporting H.R. 3722, we reaffirm our commitment to fulfilling this sacred duty. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend from Iowa, Representative Nunn, for introducing this legislation, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in supporting this bill and taking decisive action to reduce veteran suicide rates and ensure that those who have served our country receive the support and care they need and deserve.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Bost for yielding me time to speak. I rise in strong support of H.R. 4016, the Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act. This bipartisan piece of legislation, introduced by Representative Ciscomani and Representative Connolly, aims to enhance the repayment process by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs for misappropriated benefits. Our veterans have selflessly served our Nation with honor and courage, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the benefits they rightly deserve and have earned. However, instances of misappropriation of veterans' benefits are a grave injustice that cannot be tolerated. This bill addresses this issue head-on by instituting crucial reforms to ensure that our veterans are promptly reimbursed for any benefits misappropriated by their fiduciaries. Under this proposed legislation, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs is mandated to reissue benefits to veterans in cases where they are defrauded of their benefits. Additionally, the Secretary must make a good faith effort to recoup misused funds from the responsible fiduciaries, thereby holding them accountable for their actions. As a 24-year military veteran, I would also like to state that this bill ensures that veterans are not unduly penalized due to delays in determining negligence and guarantees that they receive their benefits owed to them in a timely manner. We cannot turn a blind eye to the injustices faced by our veterans. By supporting H.R. 4016, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of those who have bravely served our country. Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this crucial legislation and standing up for our veterans.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Librarian Day, which is recognized every April 16. As we celebrate the profound impact of literature, let us not forget the unsung heroes behind its organization and dissemination, our dedicated librarians, of which my mother was one. With roughly 17,500 public libraries spread across the Nation, including more than 550 within Iowa, librarians are the pillar of our communities. In an era marked by rapid digital transformation, librarians have managed to adapt to the times. Libraries now offer audiobooks, e-reader materials, free computer skills classes, and access to free online resources. Many public libraries even offer language and citizenship classes, access to useful tools, technology like 3D printers and computers, and free workshops on a variety of hobbies and life skills. They provide a quiet shelter during hot or rainy days at no cost, and they serve as a safe, welcoming hangout for people of all ages. I am grateful for our librarians and thank them for all that they do. In Recognition of Congressional App Challenge Winners Ishika Desai and Nishita Gudipat

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ishika Desai and Nishita Gudipat from Pleasant Valley High School on winning the 2024 Congressional App Challenge. Ishika and Nishita created an app called Orbit that manages the productivity of their fellow students. Every year, students around the country are asked to create an app that solves a district-specific problem, and this year, Ishika and Nishita rose to the occasion in Iowa's First Congressional District with Orbit. The app challenge was created in 2016 to foster an appreciation for computer science and STEM. Since its inception, over 40,000 students across 50 States have participated in the challenge. The winning teams get their app displayed at the Capitol Building for a year. They also get to fly out to D.C. and meet with their Representatives. I was happy to meet with these young ladies and their parents and see firsthand how their app works. I congratulate them and all the winners. In Celebration of Modern Woodmen Park

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, today I rise to celebrate Iowa's very own Modern Woodmen Park for once again being named the number one minor league ballpark in the country. Modern Woodmen Park is home to the Quad City Bandits and seats more than 17,000 people. This stadium is perfect for baseball fanatics, as well as families who want to spend quality time together. Attached to the field is a kids' amusement park that features roller coasters and the State's only double-decker carrousel. This park has been a staple of Davenport since 1931 and provides the city with a much-needed economic boost. I am proud of all those who help maintain this beautiful park, and I look forward to my next game there. In Recognition of Caitlin Clark

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Caitlin Clark, the University of Iowa's superstar player, for being selected first overall in the 2024 WNBA draft by the Indiana Fever. Following back-to-back seasons of playing in the national championship game, Caitlin now finds herself competing for the most prestigious award in all of women's basketball, a WNBA championship. Caitlin finished her illustrious college career as the highest scorer in NCAA basketball history, surpassing legends such as ``Pistol'' Pete Maravich and Kelsey Plum. She also won all major Player of the Year awards in her junior and senior years. I could not be prouder of Caitlin and all that she accomplished at her young age. Additionally, even Coach Lisa Bluder said: When she came into the locker room as a freshman, she said: We are going to go to the Final Four. No one believed her, but she inspired her coaches, her team, and her community to make it happen. I can't wait to see the impact she has on the WNBA. As always, Go Hawks.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Camryn Sattler, a standout athlete from Clinton High School. This weekend, Camryn broke another school record in the 3,000-meter run with a time of 10 minutes 20 seconds 34 microseconds, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication. Her coach, Tony Steen, praises her relentless work ethic and mental toughness, which have propelled her to success. However, Camryn's achievements are not hers alone. They reflect the collective effort of the entire River Queens team, who secured second place overall at the Assumption Invitational. From sprinting to field events to relays, the Queens demonstrated their strength and versatility, inspiring us all with their potential for even greater success. Mr. Speaker, let us applaud Camryn, her teammates, and their coaches for their outstanding achievements and continue to support and celebrate the success of our young athletes. In Recognition of Jaxon Robertson

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Iowa City High School student Jaxon Robertson's recent honorable-mention win for C-SPAN's 20th annual StudentCam competition. Every year, C-SPAN invites middle and high schoolers to think critically about issues that affect their communities and the Nation. This year's theme was ``Looking Forward while Considering the Past.'' Robertson's 6-minute documentary, ``Prescribing Change: America's Healthcare Crisis,'' skillfully examines the impact of underinsurance and lack of health coverage, highlighting healthcare accessibility, rural healthcare challenges, prescription costs, and chronic illness rates in the United States. Robertson's proposed solutions include prioritizing preventative care and reforming the fee-for-service model. As a doctor, rural healthcare issues are near and dear to my heart, which is why I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this incredible achievement and wishing Jaxon Robertson future success as he continues to examine complex issues that affect Iowans. National Gold Star Spouses Day

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Gold Star Spouses Day, which was this past Friday, April 5, 2024. In 2010, Congress designated April 5 as National Gold Star Spouses Day to pay tribute to the surviving husbands and wives of fallen servicemembers. I recognize the Iowa family of Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Petty Officer First Class Joseph Adam McSween, who, along with his teammates, gave the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom in April of 2007 when their vehicle was struck by an enemy rocket. Erin McSween is Adam's surviving Gold Star spouse and proud mother of two girls, Lilly and Gwyneth. Erin is a native of Jasper County, Iowa, and Gwyneth is currently a student at the University of Iowa, while Lilly attends the University of Western States. Erin volunteers with several nonprofits to advocate for Gold Star spouses and families. She is delighted to see Lilly and Gwyneth take on that advocacy to raise awareness of the unique needs of Gold Star children. As a 24-year Army veteran, I will always fight for our servicemembers, veterans, and their families. May God bless the family of Adam McSween. May God bless our servicemembers and veterans, and may God bless the United States of America. Recognizing University of Iowa's Women's Wrestling Team

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the University of Iowa women's wrestling team, which finished the season strong at the 2024 National Collegiate Women's Wrestling Tournament with 6 collegiate champions and 12 All-Americans, as well as the team title for the most points. Despite only being inaugurated in 2021, Coach Chun and the entire athletics department have worked tirelessly to build up this program and make it among the most elite women's wrestling teams in the Nation. Because of these incredible efforts, six champion Hawkeyes will be representing their school at the Olympic trials set to take place at Penn State University next week. I also visited with the family of one of those wrestling champions, Lilly Luft, yesterday. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues today to join me in celebrating these incredible Hawkeyes and wish them well as they work to secure a spot at the Olympics this summer. As always and forever, Go Hawkeyes.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.