Bill Pascrell

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Francesco Genuardi, who after five years of admirable service as the Consul General of Italy in New York, has been designated Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of Belgium. Mr. Genuardi, who is married with two daughters, is an Italian diplomat with over 27 years of professional experience. Born in Brussels on July 7, 1967, he graduated with a degree in Law from the University of Milan in 1991. He joined Italy's diplomatic service in 1993, and for the next five years worked at the European Union's Directorate-General for Economic Affairs, where he dealt with international issues of importance associated with environmental protection and safety. From 1998 to 2002, he served as Deputy Consul at the Consulate General in Buenos Aires, Argentina. From 2002 through 2005, he returned to his native Brussels to serve as First Secretary at the Permanent Mission of Italy to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Mr. Genuardi returned to Rome in 2005 and began an eleven-year tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, working with seven succeeding Ministers as a liaison officer for parliament. In 2014, Mr. Genuardi was appointed by then Minister Paolo Gentiloni to serve as head of the Office for Parliamentary Relations of the Italian Foreign Ministry. In March of 2016, Mr. Genuardi was appointed Consul General of Italy in New York, covering the states of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, as well as the territory of Bermuda, which collectively have a population of nearly 100,000 Italian residents and over 3 million Italian Americans. During his tenure at the Consulate General of Italy in New York, Mr. Genuardi demonstrated a special attention towards all of the Italian and Italian American people of New York and the Tri-State area by actively engaging with the many existing Italian and Italian American associations, and contributing to the creation of new interest groups related to culture, education, athletics, and more. Mr. Genuardi also contributed greatly to the budding careers of young Italians and Italian Americans through the Consulate's ``Meet the New Italians'' program, a series of workshops and professional development seminars aimed at Italian professionals. Mr. Genuardi's commendable tenure in New York and lifetime of diplomatic service leaves no doubt that he will take on his new role in Brussels with professionalism, grace, and resolve. His presence will be deeply missed among the Tri-State Italian American community. I am proud to rise today in recognition of the career and service of Francesco Genuardi, incoming Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of Belgium.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, a lot of people are waiting to get this done today. It is up to us to help Americans who can't buy their groceries or pay their rent and are not in prison. It is up to us to protect seniors in nursing homes. It is up to us to ensure that every American has quality health insurance and is able to get vaccinated. These are Congress' burdens, our burdens. I am voting yes, because Ingrid from Rutherford told me it would help her pay the rent or utilities. How can I say no to that? I am voting yes, because Bradley from Fort Lee told me that a new stimulus check was the only way he could get help for his kids until he finds work. I am voting yes for that. Our cities and States are being bled into bankruptcy. They contemplate cuts to public safety in schools that will be felt for a generation without us acting. Americans are crying out for help, Mr. Speaker. Can you hear them? They have given us the burden to act. Today, we are going to deliver. We should be happy today. We should not be angry.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Seventieth Anniversary of the Battle of Jangjin Reservoir. I am proud to join those who worked tirelessly to ensure this milestone is recognized and honor the service of those who fought during this crucial event. In November of 1950, approximately 15,000 brave service men and women in the United States Marines and Army soldiers and another 15,000 United Nations troops fought under the leadership of General Douglas MacArthur against approximately 120,000. The brutal conditions of war these soldiers faced were compounded by being in a mountainous region of North Korea, where they endured below-freezing temperatures, severe losses, and an agonizing retreat. Despite these trials and tribulations, enemy forces were stopped in the mountains. ``The Chosin Few,'' named in honor of the Japanese pronunciation of the Jangjin Reservoir, helped evacuate 100,000 North Korean men, women, and children. This impressive rescue operation resulted in one of the most dramatic, large-scale humanitarian events of the war. Those involved in the Battle of Jangjin Reservoir have rightfully been awarded a total of seventeen Medals of Honor, seventy Navy Crosses, twelve Distinguished Service Crosses, and 9,000 Purple Hearts for their actions. This represents the most awards of this nature for a single battle in United States military history. The people of New Jersey's Ninth Congressional district and many across our nation are indebted to those courageous individuals who overcame great burdens and made tremendous sacrifices overseas. In a recognition of this service, my home state of New Jersey named a nearly forty-mile portion of Route 35 stretching from Brielle to Aberdeen the Chosin Few Memorial Highway. It is a small fraction of respect and honor these exceptional individuals deserve. That is why I am proud to recognize the tenacious serving as members of the United States Armed Forces and the Memorial Committtee of the Battle of Jangjin Reservoir for their strong character and notable determination.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Steven Dyl in celebration of his decades of work as a father, Fire Chief, and leader in the Town of Kearny and the County of Hudson. I am proud to have such a dedicated and hardworking individual in the Ninth Congressional District of New Jersey. A lifelong resident of Kearny and a product of the Kearny school system, Steven Dyl dedicated his life to the safety and security of his hometown. Steven's commitment to serve started at a very young age. With the gumption to hold regular meetings with then Mayor Henry Hill, Steven advocated for the establishment of an emergency rescue squad in the Town of Kearny, resulting in the creation of the Kearny Emergency Ambulance squad, an organization responsible for protecting tens of thousands of people. Furthermore, prior to his career in fire safety, Mr. Dyl worked for the McCabe Ambulance in Bayonne and as an EMT for University Hospital in Newark, formally beginning his career in public safety. Appointed to the Kearny Fire Department (KFD) on October 6, 1984, Steven Dyl would start his thirty-five-year long career with the department. Rising through the ranks from Fire Captain, to Deputy Fire Chief and then Chief in 2007, Steven has a long history of hard work and commitment to reflect upon as he retires. Present for many of the department's greatest challenges such as the attack on 9/11 and the economic downturn in 2008, Steven's leadership would play a key role in many of the major initiatives enacted by the Kearny Fire Department. I know his guidance and strong force of character will be missed by everyone at the department. Working closely with other members of his community, Steven has raised money for the people of Kearny and firefighters across New Jersey. While titles may come and go, Mr. Dyl displays the intrinsic qualities that make him a leader irrespective of the title he holds. Regardless of how Steven chooses to spend his retirement, I know he will remain a firefighter in spirit. Retirement means a transition into a new phase of life, and I have every confidence that Steven will make this new phase a wonderful, productive and exciting time. As the representative for New Jersey's Ninth Congressional District, I have the great honor of representing the residents of Kearny in Congress and it gives me great pride to recognize one of their native sons who has spent his life serving the public. I can say with confidence that Steven is not only a good leader, but an incredible public servant--the kind who can be counted on both in good times and in bad times. The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the efforts of individuals like Mr. Dyl. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, and the residents of New Jersey in recognizing Steven Dyl for his outstanding work, as we celebrate his decades of distinguished service to the Ninth Congressional District and the members of his family and community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli for his commitment to spread the word of God in the City of Paterson and beyond. May we all admire his relationship with God and remember his spiritual leadership as he retires from the Diocese of Paterson. Born in Newark, New Jersey on April 18, 1944, to Pio Serratelli and Eva Fasolino, Bishop Serratelli is a native son of our great State of New Jersey, and I am proud of his service to the people of the Ninth Congressional District. A learned man with many accomplishment as an academic, Bishop Serratelli is the recipient of a undergraduate degree from Seton Hall University in 1965, a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from the Gregorian University in 1969, a Licentiate in Sacred Scripture from the Biblical Institute in 1976, and a doctorate in Sacred Theology from the Gregorian University in 1977. Ordained to the priesthood on December 20, 1968 in St. Peter's Basilica by Bishop Francis Reh, Bishop Serratelli would start his journey as a theologian serving one year as parochial vicar at St. Anthony Parish in Belleville. He would also expand further and teach Systematic Theology at Immaculate Conception Seminary for two years before returning to Rome to complete his education. Prior to his appointment on July 6, 2004 to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, Arthur Serratelli was Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, Regional Bishop for Essex County, and Vicar General for the Apostolates. Bishop Serratelli has also assumed various leadership roles throughout our community. Most recently, Bishop Serratelli was Chairman of the International Committee on English in the Liturgy and co-chair of the Vatican's International Dialogue with the Baptist World Alliance. Additionally, Arthur was also a member of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments with the Vatican. Arthur is also currently on the Board of Directors for the Catholic Relief Services, Board of Trustees at Assumption College for Sisters and on the Board of Regents and Board of Trustees with Seton Hall University. Bishop Serratelli has been with the City of Paterson for nearly sixteen years providing the people of my district with his exemplary religious service. Our churches are among the most important social institutions in our nation, offering spiritual guidance, solace and communal bonding to people across a wide spectrum of our land. An active church can be the glue that binds a community together, it can help to steer youth in the right direction, and it can offer hope where there is trouble. I am so grateful for Bishop Arthur Serratelli's stewardship and care for the Silk City. The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the efforts of individuals like Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, and the residents of New Jersey in recognizing Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli for his outstanding work, as we celebrate his years of distinguished service to the people of the Ninth Congressional District.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Francisco Mantilla for his commitment to the people of New Jersey. Mr. Mantilla came to this country from Ecuador in pursuit of the American Dream. A businessman, father and community leader, Francisco leads a rich life here in the United States. He is a role model for many in the Silk City. Today, I ask that we honor him for all his outstanding work. Born to Mr. Francisco Arturo Mantilla Sr. and Rosa Mantilla Faz, Francisco's story starts in Ecuador. A studious and dedicated individual, Francisco would complete high school with high honors and by the age of twenty-one, earn a law degree from the Catholic University of Guayaquil. Mr. Mantilla, after completing his education, made the brave decision to leave Ecuador for greater opportunity here in the United States. In 1970, Francisco arrived in the Silk City. In Paterson, Mr. Mantilla would begin his journey as an American citizen with dreams of a better life for his family. Living briefly in New York, Francisco met his wonderful wife Elsa and in 1972, resettled permanently in the City of Paterson. Married a year later in 1973, Francisco and Elsa would have three children, Rosa, Francisco and Elsa Elizabeth. The year is 1980, and together with his wife, Elsa's Fashions is opened on 21st Ave. in Paterson. The second ever Latino owned business in the immediate area. Elsa's Fashions would become an important gathering place and respected establishment for the Latin American community. The owner and operator, Francisco would encourage and support other Latin Americans to start their own small business. Offering guidance and leadership, there has been no greater advocate for the businesses here in the Silk City. A founding member of many community organizations, we can see Francisco's work throughout the State of New Jersey. Starting the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Paterson and the 21st Ave. Business Association, there are hundreds if not thousands of small business owners who have Francisco to thank for his contributions. A liaison with the City of Paterson, Mr. Mantilla is a constant advocate before the Mayor and council on behalf of the small businesses on 21st Ave. Francisco Mantilla has shared his prosperity with the community. Hosting toy drives, voter registration drives and clothing and food drives for the less fortunate, Francisco gives back and raises others up in the City of Paterson. Recognized by many different organizations for his community activism, Francisco was named the ``Patersonian of the Year'', ``Entrepreneur of the Year'' and ``The Ambassador of 21st Avenue''. I, on the other hand, know him to be my friend. The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the efforts of individuals like Mr. Francisco Mantilla. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, and the residents of New Jersey in recognizing Francisco Mantilla, as we celebrate his years of distinguished service to the people of the Ninth Congressional District.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. I rise to recognize The Honorable Patricia de Stacy Harrison, the Chair of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), on receiving the Italian honor of ``Cavaliere'' of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the highest-ranking honor of the Italian Republic. On October 7, Ambassador Armando Varricchio of Italy presented this high honor to Ms. Harrison, a testament to her lifetime of extraordinary accomplishment in service of the humanities, culture, philanthropy, and diplomacy. The granddaughter of an Italian immigrant, Ms. Harrison is a native of Brooklyn, New York and a graduate of the American University School of International Service in Washington, D.C. Thereafter, she began an enormously successful career, starting a public relations firm focused on serving the public interest in the fields of environmental, labor, and agricultural policy. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush appointed Ms. Harrison to the President's Export Council in the United States Department of Commerce. In recognition of her prowess and expertise in the humanities and the arts, in 2001 she was appointed Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs by then-Secretary of State Colin Powell. While serving in this critical role, Ms. Harrison also assumed the position of Acting Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs. Ms. Harrison then continued her public service, being appointed the Chief Executive Officer of CBP in 2005, where she continues to serve today. Under Ms. Harrison's leadership, the CPB launched ``American Graduate: Let's Make It Happen'', a nationwide public media initiative to help combat the nationwide high school dropout crisis. To date, over 100 stations in 48 states are working with over 1,700 local partners and schools to help students graduate. For her work and commitment to helping young people stay on the path to a high school diploma, Ms. Harrison was honored in 2016 with a Promise of America Award from the America's Promise Alliance. Ms. Harrison's deep commitment to public media producing nonpartisan, commercial-free, educational content for the public good has ensured CPB's continued success and critical place in our society. Ms. Harrison has drawn from her life of experience to help foster a new generation of woman leaders, authoring two books, ``A Seat At The Table: An Insider's Guide for America's New Women Leaders and America's New Women Entrepreneurs.'' In 2019, Ms. Harrison was appointed to the voting council for the inaugural, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg Woman of Leadership Award, which recognizes the achievements of exceptional American women. Ms. Harrison is the recipient of many additional awards and honors, including the Ellis Island Medal of Honor Award and the U.S. Secretary of State's Distinguished Service Award. Ms, Harrison is a role model for Italian Americans, for women, and for anyone aspiring to make a positive difference in the world. I am proud to rise today in recognition of her receiving the more than well- deserved honor of ``Cavaliere'' of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Anita Bevacqua McBride, the Vice Chair of Cultural Affairs of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), on receiving the Italian honor of ``Cavaliere'' of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, the highest-ranking honor of the Italian Republic. On October 7, Ambassador Armando Varricchio of Italy presented this high honor to Ms. McBride, a testament to her lifetime of extraordinary accomplishment in service of the humanities, culture, philanthropy, and diplomacy. The daughter of Italian immigrants, Ms. McBride was born and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut. She received a degree in International Studies from the University of Connecticut and studied international relations and three languages at American University in Washington, D.C. and the University of Florence in Italy. Ms. McBride currently serves as executive-in-residence at the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies in the School of Public Affairs at American University, where she directs the First Ladies Initiative, a project highlighting the legacies of America's first ladies and their historical influence on politics and policy. Ms. McBride's White House service spans two decades and three administrations. From 1987 through 1992, Ms. McBride was Director of White House Personnel under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. She later served as Senior Advisor to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of State and White House Liaison from 2001 through 2003 under President George W. Bush. From 2005 through 2009, Ms. McBride served as Assistant to President George W. Bush and Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, directing the staff's work on the wide variety of domestic and global initiatives including the First Lady's efforts to support U.S. foreign policy objectives in human rights, women's empowerment, global health and human freedom. Ms. McBride has added to her distinguished career with several accomplishments in service of philanthropy and global leadership. Ms. McBride is a member of the U.S.-Afghan Women's Council, a historic public-private partnership to help Afghanistan's women rebuild their country and reclaim their place at the center of post-Taliban society. Ms. McBride served as a member of the U.S. delegations to the U.N. Commission on the Status of Women in 2002, the U.N. Commission on Human Rights in 2003, and the U.N. Special Session on HIV/ AIDS in 2006. Additionally, Ms. McBride is the reciprent of several honors and awards including the U.S. Department of State's Meritorious Service Award, the United States National Guard and Reserve's Patriot Award, the University of Connecticut's President's Award of Distinction, American University's Alice Paul Award, and The Ellis Island Foundation Medal of Honor. Ms. McBride is a role model for Italian Americans, for women, and for anyone aspiring to make a positive difference in the world. I am proud to rise today in recognition of her receiving the more than well- deserved honor of ``Cavaliere'' of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great American institution of research and higher learning. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Fordham University Henry C. Ravazzin Center on Aging and Intergenerational Studies. The Henry C. Ravazzin Center on Aging and Intergenerational Studies is nationally recognized for its strong partnerships with community organizations to enhance research and evaluation initiatives. The Center has been recognized for empowering students, professionals, and communities to address the needs of older adults and their families through practice, policy, and research. The Center's work focuses on a broad range of impact areas including Social Work Education, Health Care, lnterprofessional Practice, Palliative Care, Intergenerational Care, Community Program Evaluation, Foster Care and Family Supports, Loneliness and Social Isolation. The Center was established in 1995 by the Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service under the leadership of the former Dean, Dr. Mary Ann Quaranta, and Dr. Irene Gutheil, the first chair of the Center on Aging and Intergenerational Studies. Dean Dr. Debra McPhee has led the Center since 2013, overseeing recent expansions of study and services along with Endowed Chairwoman, Dr. Janna Heyman. Madam Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in officially recognizing the Fordham University Henry C. Ravazzin Center on Aging and Intergenerational Studies in the Congressional Record for its significant contributions to an improved quality of life for older adults and their families over the past 25 years. Go Rams.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the chairman. I know he has worked hard on this for many moons, and he deserves it. He earned it. Mr. Speaker, 64 years ago this week, Dwight Eisenhower signed into law the Interstate Highway System. The roads, the bridges, the highways of that system connected Americans and communities together like never before. It is no stretch that the landmark legislation remade the United States for a new postwar era, a great measure for the homeland's security. That is how he put it. Today, we are implementing the aspirations in the Green New Deal by passing our own blueprint for the next century. It includes bridges, roads, new trains, buses, new water pipelines in housing. This plan invests in electric, solar, water, geothermal, and wind power. It includes my own Offshore Wind Power bill that will create clean energy jobs and invest in renewable sources of energy, because the future can't just be bold and big; it must be clean, too. H.R. 2 is a down payment on an America for our children and our grandchildren because a living, breathing great Nation invests in its future. Today, we are doing exactly that. Mr. Speaker, I have been here for 25 years. We have always had 5-year plans for infrastructure, and we are back maybe to normality now, thanks in great part to our chairman.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, ``The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice,'' Martin Luther King said. I want to thank Chairwoman Bass, Chairman Nadler, and Senator Booker for their leadership on this landmark piece of legislation. We stand here today at a great moral reckoning. For millions of Black and Brown Americans, our country is unequal. The traumatic murders of Black and Brown Americans by the very people and institutions meant to protect them make clear something needs to change. I watched the protests. I have heard the courage and cries for justice. I have marched. And today, we show that this House is listening. The George Floyd Justice in Policing Act is the largest reform Congress has undertaken in generations. It is no half measure but a full measure. The growing divide between our men and women in blue and the public they are sworn to protect is unhealthy for democracy. It is unhealthy for public safety. It is unhealthy for the brothers in blue, and I stand here as the co-chair of First Responders and Public Safety in Congress. It is time we make clear that Black lives matter and never forget it.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise for our first responders who are risking their lives and the lives of their families. They go to work every day to fight this virus. They need our help. I am proud to join Chairman Nadler, Congressman Max Rose, and others in support of the Public Safety Officer Pandemic Response Act. Our bill will guarantee first responders receive Public Safety Officer Benefits if the worst comes to pass, because there have been many delays. We need clarity so that there is no anxiety about this. In my district, the Ninth District of New Jersey, we tragically lost two first responders to COVID-19 in the line of duty. Israel Tolentino, a firefighter from Passaic, New Jersey, was 33 years old. It was Israel's lifelong dream to be a firefighter. He made the ultimate sacrifice for our community fighting this pandemic. He leaves behind his wife and two young children. And we have lost Frank Scorpo, a police officer from my hometown of Paterson. I knew the family. He was only 34. He was a beloved member of the force. He leaves behind his wife and two sons, ages 4 and 6 months. Another person I want to recognize, who understands and is sensitive to this, for all the years he served here, is Peter King of New York. He never, never missed an opportunity to stand up for law enforcement and their families. These men are heroes, Scorpo and Tolentino. My heart and your heart bleeds for our fallen first responders. This bill ensures their families have some peace of mind that their benefits will be implemented. This legislation was part, as you know, of the landmark HEROES Act, which was passed a week and a half ago. We are passing it again to underscore its critical importance. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to all first responders across New Jersey and around the country. We cannot make it to the other side of this mess without them. I thank them for their service, and God bless all of them. Thank you to law enforcement and fire service organizations who helped draft this legislation. I know they stand strong for their membership. I want to recognize Senator Cory Booker and Senator Chuck Grassley for working to protect our first responders. I know they are serious about creating this presumption. I have served as the co-chair of law enforcement in the Congress for over 16 years. These are our men, these are our women in uniform. We must get this done. We cannot delay.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, as of the time of this debate, there are 6,876 positive COVID-19 cases in New Jersey. And tragically 81 individuals in our state have lost their lives. These are friends, family and loved ones. This virus has touched each and every one of us. I grieve for all the lives lost and for those who are fighting tooth and nail to beat this nasty virus. Our front lines are staffed with brave first responders and health care workers doing their best to help those impacted. Across my state, we are hard at work making sure those who need a test are getting tested and we have expanded bed capacity to care for those in need. The coming weeks will be hard for all. And I remain ready and willing to do everything I can for our state and country. I rise today because I support the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act because it provides immediate and needed assistance for workers, families, small businesses and hospitals across our country weathering the COVID-19 crisis. Democrats stood strong against the partisan, corporate-focused bail out prioritized by Senate Republicans. Through tough negotiations, we secured payments of as much as $1,200 for individual taxpayers and $500 per child. Democrats also secured expanded unemployment insurance for any worker affected by COVID-19, including an additional $600 a week in additional and expanded benefits and protections for self-employed and nonprofits. And we guaranteed inclusion of $150 billion to help states and territories respond to this crisis. After I led a letter signed by over 100 members of Congress, first responders will receive nearly $1 billion in federal assistance to help purchase needed personal protective equipment. Our hospitals and providers, who stand on the frontlines of this pandemic, will receive $100 billion in funding to reimburse for COVID-19 related costs. This was a top priority for our state's delegation, which stood united demanding this relief. But I know it is not enough. I will keep fighting for more aid for our first responders, for our hurting small business owners, and for the millions of Americans being pummeled by this terrible time. Like millions of Americans across the country, I am practicing safe social distancing measures by working from home. I am connecting everyday with my constituents and local, state, and federal officials making sure New Jersey's voice is being represented and our needs are being met. I support this relief legislation for our nation. Talk has already begun about what to do next, and I am fully focused on making sure New Jersey gets its due.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Chair, I thank Chairwoman Lowey and Ranking Member Granger. I support this supplemental. It is very necessary. The destruction in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria and the terrible earthquake last month, with its ongoing aftershocks, make this relief more necessary than ever. I am thankful that legislation I proposed, H.R. 3307, to provide a Federal supplement to the earned income tax credit in Puerto Rico and the other U.S. territories, was included in the bill. Unlike Americans in every other State, working Puerto Rican taxpayers are excluded from the Federal EITC to supplement their incomes. This is a deeply unfair restriction. It has tied the commonwealth's hands at the worst possible time as islanders are recovering from disaster and facing high unemployment and dreadful levels of poverty. The EITC has repeatedly proven a critical tool to alleviating poverty, improving health outcomes, and encouraging labor participation. Why shouldn't our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico--and they are our fellow Americans--be able to earn the same benefit? With this Federal support, we can provide a very powerful tool for Puerto Ricans to get back on their feet and get a leg up. They deserve that help. Madam Chair, I ask that we support this legislation.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for both you and the chairman, but there is a parting of the ways here. I want to urge my colleagues to stand against the administration's vicious assault on Medicaid. That is how I perceive it. The expansion of Medicaid by the ACA is one of the great success stories of government in action in the last 50 years. Despite the decade-long obstructionism, Medicaid expansion has saved 19,000 older, low-income adult lives--and I know they don't challenge those numbers-- and 825 lives just in our State of New Jersey. But many Republicans have rejected the attempts to destroy--they tried to destroy the ACA at the ballot box and at the courthouse. But like Captain Ahab after his white whale, they remain singularly dedicated to stealing healthcare away from as many Americans as possible. This administration knows their policy is pure poison. They gave it an innocuous name and, as we heard on Tuesday, are lying about the details to fool people. Americans will not be fooled by this Orwellian scheme. This policy would rip away healthcare for some of the most vulnerable of our neighbors. They want to obliterate the ACA no matter what the consequences. Mr. Speaker, I support this resolution to send a loud message: Those on the other side cannot be allowed to steal your healthcare. We will do everything in our power to stop their schemes. Now, the ``Joker'' movie may not prevail at Sunday's Oscars. We must think about any other jokers that go through any of their basements, including the White House, after today's vote. What will they be sulking about? This is important legislation.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise on this year's Dominicans on the Hill Day to recognize an invaluable member of the City of Passaic community, Chief of Police Luis Guzman. Chief Guzman is an accomplished, twenty-nine-year veteran of the City of Passaic Police Department, where he rose through the ranks to be appointed as the first ever Dominican-born Chief of Police of the City of Passaic on July 10, 2017. Chief Guzman began his law enforcement career as a correction officer with the Passaic County Sheriff's Department in January 1990. Later that year he was hired as a police officer by the City of Passaic, becoming the first Dominican-born officer in the city's history. While in the New Jersey State Police Academy, he received the Distinguished Graduate Award for ranking at the top of his class. He served as a beat officer for the subsequent three years and a patrol officer for the next four before being assigned to the Detective Bureau in the Passaic County Sheriff's Department as a criminal investigator. In February 2000, Chief Guzman was promoted to Sergeant and assigned to supervise detectives, concurrently working in the patrol division of his department's Community Policing Unit. In October 2004, he was promoted to Lieutenant, where he held the position of Commander of several patrol shifts, the Detective Bureau, and the Internal Affairs Division. In September 2011, Chief Guzman was promoted to Captain and was assigned to commander of all uniformed divisions. In October 2013, he was promoted to Deputy Chief and assigned to oversee the operations division. In July 2017, Chief Guzman was made the first ever Dominican- born Chief of Police in the City of Passaic, promoted by Mayor Hector Carlos Lora, also of Dominican heritage. During his tenure at the helm of the Passaic Police Department, Chief Guzman has managed a department that has presided over a substantial reduction in crime. For over twenty-five years, Chief Guzman has given back to his community through one of his foremost passions, baseball. Chief Guzman has volunteered to coach youth baseball from T-ball to the American Legion League in the City of Passaic. He has regularly organized police softball and basketball games with members of the City of Passaic community. Chief Guzman has further demonstrated his spirit of giving back through his time as an adjunct professor at Passaic County Community College, where he has taught Criminal Justice for the past fifteen years. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Law Enforcement Caucus, I am honored to recognize Chief Luis Guzman, who has been a tremendous leader, mentor, and public servant in the City of Passaic. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Chief Guzman's coworkers, family and friends, all those whose lives he has touched, and me, in recognizing the tireless dedication and steadfast service of Chief of Police Luis Guzman.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Louis Gill in celebration of his decades of work as a dedicated volunteer, leader, and activist in the City of Passaic and the Polish community. Born to Mr. Ludwig Gill and Ms. Leona Stolarz, Mr. Gill's commitment to service began very young. After graduating from Passaic High School in 1957, he attended Fairleigh Dickinson College and received a bachelor's degree in Accounting in 1961. After becoming the Work Experience and Career Exploration Program (W.E.C.E.P.) Coordinator and teacher at the Paterson Board of Education, Mr. Gill continued to earn multiple degrees and certifications for business, education, and administration. Following his years in school, Mr, Gill founded his own store, Gill's Market, right in his hometown of Passaic. Mr. Gill married his beloved wife Mary in 1963 in Passaic, New Jersey. Together, they raised four children and are grandparents to four grandchildren. Five years after his wedding, Mr. Gill began his lifelong career in public service. He was appointed to the Passaic Alcohol and Beverage Control Commission, where he served for five years, three of which he was the Chairman. In 1977, he was elected to the Passaic City Council, where he served for another 19 years and eventually became the President of the City Council. During his service there, Mr. Gill was elected to the New Jersey General Assembly to represent the 36th District for two terms in 1987. Mr. Gill's service to his community here in New Jersey and to the Polish community is extensive. While pursuing higher education and serving his local community, he was the Grand Marshall of the Pulaski Day Parade and President of the Sons of Poland for five years. He also joined the League of American Poles, and was a part of the Board of Directors for the Polish Cultural Center and Clifton Community Center. In addition to getting involved with the Polish community, Mr. Gill was also a part of the Chopin Singing Society for 50 years, where he served as President. Mr. Gill's service to his community is a credit to his character, and he has consistently been recognized for his work. He was awarded the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Pulaski Association of Police and Fire Departments in 1978. In the following year, he received the Citizen of the Year Award from the Policemen's Benevolent Association. Finally, as a member of the Passaic-Clifton Y.M.C.A., Mr. Gill received the Recognition For Service Award in 1985. The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is rewarding, yet nothing compares to working with and recognizing the efforts of individuals like Mr. Gill. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, friends, family, and the residents of New Jersey in recognizing Louis Gill for his outstanding work, as we celebrate his decades of distinguished service to the State of New Jersey and the members of his family and community.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I want to state for the record that on January 16, 2020, I missed one roll call vote. Had I been present, I would have voted: yea on rollcall Vote 22, H.J. Res. 76.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Truth matters, Mr. Speaker. Truth matters. Truth is not Democratic or Republican. Truth is not partisan. It is the basis of any society that hopes to be and hopes to remain civilized. And so, when a faction decides that facts are flexible, that facts are whatever validates their preconceived notions and not what is, then that nation may as well close shop and turn out the lights. The Trump administration's justification for military action against Iran has been inconsistent at best. Donald Trump's speech on January 8, 2020 was a pathetic spectacle. And the Congressional briefing was a sham, a cavalcade of falsehoods that has been denounced by Democrats and Republicans alike. Any rational observer, any fair-minded person can see it. Certainly, my Republican colleagues know. Which is why some have turned to audacious, outrageous statements. I have heard them say that dissenting voices support terrorism simply for asking questions. That those of us who want to avoid war are traitors. They have gone so far and have gone so low to blame President Obama for Iran's recent attack on U.S. forces. Going so far as to lie that Iran was given over $150 billion after the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action was signed. These are scurrilous lies. Let me repeat that: these accusations are lies, told by desperate people. Told by people too cowardly to put their ambitions aside to lift a finger for truth. I'd say they should be ashamed of themselves, but they are clearly past shame. That ship has sailed. In his opus, George Orwell observed that ``The party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.'' That's an exact blueprint for these lies. Those propagating these lies may be at war with truth, but I'm not. I still believe in truth and in fact. Here is the truth and the fact. The ham-fisted decisions of the Trump administration will not prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons, but could hasten that outcome. Here is the truth. War with Iran will not benefit us. War endangers our troops, leads to death and misery, and harms our allies. Here is the fact. Americans do not want another damn war. War powers belong to Congress, not the President, and it is our job here to defend our constitutional prerogative. And we did this by passing a war powers resolution. I believe in truth. I do not believe in unnecessary war. And I stand with this House that today made a big statement for both. To correct the record of lies, I include in the Record this New York Times article ``References in Address to 2013 Deal Had Holes'' by Linda Qiu from January 9, 2020. [From The New York Times, Jan. 8, 2020] Fact Check--Trump's Inaccurate Statements About the Conflict With Iran (By Linda Qiu) President Trump, responding during a White House address on Wednesday to the missile strikes by Iran, assailed the nuclear agreement reached by his predecessor and praised American military might. The 10-minute address contained numerous inaccuracies and claims that lacked evidence. Here's a fact check. What Mr. Trump said: ``Iran's hostilities substantially increased after the foolish Iran nuclear deal was signed in 2013, and they were given $150 billion, not to mention $1.8 billion in cash.'' This is misleading. The agreement reached by Iran, the United States and a number of other nations to constrain Tehran's nuclear program did not directly provide American money to Iran, but it did release about $100 billion in previously frozen Iranian assets. Much of the amount was tied up by debt obligations, for example, $20 billion to China for financing projects in Iran. Estimates for the actual amount available to Iran range from $35 billion to $65 billion. A separate $1.7 billion transfer of cash to Iran was to settle a decades-long dispute and was agreed to in negotiations that happened parallel to the nuclear deal. Before the 1979 revolution, Iran's shah had paid $400 million for American military goods but, after he was overthrown, the equipment was never delivered. The clerics who seized control demanded the money back, but the United States refused. The additional $1.3 billion is interest accumulated over 35 years. Iran and other parties to the nuclear accord signed an interim agreement in 2013, but the formal agreement was not reached until 2015. The White House did not respond when asked for evidence of increased Iranian ``hostilities.'' It is worth noting that before Mr. Trump withdrew the United States from the nuclear agreement in 2018, his administration repeatedly certified that Iran was in compliance. Afterward, as his so-called maximum-pressure campaign on Iran continued, tensions between the United States and Iran ``escalated significantly,'' according to a recent Congressional Research Service report. Mr. Trump's claim blaming the nuclear accord for Iranian aggression rather than his withdrawal from it is ``almost an inverted reality,'' said Jim Walsh, a research associate at M.I.T.'s Security Studies Program and an expert on nuclear issues and the Middle East. He said that attacks by the four groups supported by Iran and designated by some governments as terrorist organizations--Hezbollah, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command--actually declined after the nuclear deal. Attacks carried out by these groups decreased from more than 80 in 2014 to six in 2017, before increasing to more than 40 in 2018, according to the Global Terrorism Database maintained by the University of Maryland's National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism. And while Iran has been a violent and destabilizing force across the region, Mr. Trump's assertion that Tehran had ``created hell'' lacked context in some cases. Iranian aid to President Bashar al-Assad of Syria in that country's civil war and Tehran's backing of Houthi rebels in Yemen both predate the signing of the nuclear agreement, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. ``There's nothing that Iran was doing after J.C.P.O.A. that it wasn't doing before,'' said Vali R. Nasr, a professor of Middle East studies at Johns Hopkins University and a State Department official in the Obama administration. Calling Iran's backing of the Houthi rebels against the Saudi Arabia-aligned government in Yemen terrorism is ``devaluing the word to the point where it's meaningless,'' said Anthony Cordesman, an expert on military affairs and the Middle East at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. As for Iran's activities in Afghanistan and Iraq, Mr. Cordesman said, ``they were more aggressive there because they were working to attack ISIS--as we were.'' What Mr. Trump said: ``The missiles fired last night at us and our allies were paid for with the funds made available by the last administration.'' This lacks evidence. The White House did not respond when asked to substantiate this claim, and experts noted there was no proof that Iranian assets unfrozen by the deal paid for the missiles. ``There's a certain fungibility here,'' Mr. Walsh said. If the Iranian foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, ``took a dollar on the street, did that fund the missile attack?'' he added. ``That's not very useful from an analytical perspective. Nor is the case that giving them money caused them to attack the U.S.'' ''We have no indication,'' Mr. Cordesman said, ``whether these missiles are funded by the money from the J.C.P.O.A.'' The director of national intelligence's annual report on worldwide threats in 2019 did note that Iran continued to develop and improve military capabilities including ballistic missiles, but it did not tie those efforts to the nuclear deal. Furthermore, the annual reports warned of the same efforts in 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and before. Critics of the Iran deal, including Mr. Trump, have long argued that it was inadequate because it did not address Iran's ability to develop ballistic missiles. Those restrictions have instead been established by the United Nations Security Council resolutions. The diplomatic accord was an arms deal with a very narrow aim of curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions, ``not a nonaggression pact, not a form of a friendship treaty,'' Mr. Nasr of Johns Hopkins said. ``Whether there could have been more in the deal, of course. But piling in expectations is disingenuous.'' What Mr. Trump said: ``The very defective J.C.P.O.A. expires shortly anyway and gives Iran a clear and quick path to nuclear breakout.'' This is exaggerated. The major provisions limiting Iran's nuclear capabilities last a decade or longer. And the agreement increased the ``breakout'' period--the time it would take Iran to produce enough fuel for one weapon--to at least a year from an estimated two to three months. If the deal had been left in place and fully adhered to, Iran would not have been able to achieve nuclear breakout until 2030. The agreement also prohibits Iran from pursuing nuclear weapons permanently. ``Iran reaffirms that under no circumstances will Iran ever seek, develop or acquire any nuclear weapons,'' the first paragraph of the deal reads. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a vocal critic of the deal, said it ``largely expires after only 15 years.'' Under the deal's terms, Iran agreed not to use more than 5,060 centrifuges to enrich uranium--and not to pursue research and development on centrifuges--for 10 years. Limits on enrichment levels, facilities and stockpiles last for 15 years, according to a report from the Congressional Research Service. Under the terms of the accord, Iran also agreed to convert a deep underground enrichment facility into a ``technology center'' that cannot contain nuclear material and where the number of centrifuges is limited for 15 years. Several provisions on plutonium, including forbidding the construction of new heavy water reactors, last for 15 years. Inspectors are to monitor centrifuges and related infrastructure for 15 years, verify inventory for 20 years and monitor uranium mines for 25 years. What Mr. Trump said: ``We are now the No. 1 producer of oil and natural gas anywhere in the world. We are independent, and we do not need Middle East oil.'' This is misleading. The United States has been the largest producer of oil and gas in the world since 2013, a trend that began under the Obama administration thanks in large part to advances in shale drilling techniques. The Energy Information Administration projected in January 2019 that the United States will produce more energy than it imports this year, the first time since 1950. But that is not the same thing as not importing oil from the Middle East at all. In 2018, the United States imported more than 1.5 million barrels a day from the Persian Gulf. What was said: ``The American military has been completely rebuilt under my administration at a cost of $2.5 trillion.'' This is exaggerated. The $2.5 trillion figure refers to the total defense budgets of the past four fiscal years: $606 billion the 2017 fiscal year (which began before Mr. Trump took office), $671 billion in 2018, $685 billion in 2019 and $718 billion in 2020. But the amount spent on procurement-- buying and upgrading equipment--was about $562 billion over that period. Mr. Trump's use of the phrase ``completely rebuilt'' is somewhat subjective. Though the Trump administration has invested in operational readiness over the past few years, there are signs that the military continues to face substantial challenges in addressing an array of threats from around the world. For example, the military earned a middling grade of ``marginal'' from the conservative Heritage Foundation's annual index of strength, based on factors like shortages in personnel and aging equipment. The think tank noted that American forces are probably capable of meeting the demands of a single major regional conflict but ``would be very hard- pressed to do more and certainly would be ill-equipped to handle two nearly simultaneous major regional contingencies.'' What was said: ``Three months ago, after destroying 100 percent of ISIS and its territorial caliphate, we killed the savage leader of ISIS, al-Baghdadi, who was responsible for so much death.'' This is exaggerated. The Islamic State lost its final territories in March 2019, ending the physical ``caliphate,'' but the terrorist group has not been destroyed. The recent confrontation with Iran has halted the United States' campaign against ISIS. Just this week, Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper and Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the fight against the group was continuing. Mr. Trump alluded to the organization's endurance in his speech when he said: ``ISIS is a natural enemy of Iran. The destruction of ISIS is good for Iran. And we should work together on this and other shared priorities.''

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the rule reported by the Committee on Rules providing for the consideration of H.R. 5377, the Restoring Tax Fairness for States and Localities Act. I was an original cosponsor of this legislation. Last Congress, the middle class was targeted by the former House majority. The tax scam law of 2017 remains one of the most destructive bills we have ever seen here because it specifically went after the middle class. The principal way it did this was by capping the State and local tax, or SALT, deduction, one of the oldest deductions on the books. It existed before the tax code, and there was a reason for it. This unfair cap hit New Jersey like an anvil dropped from five stories up. The average value of all New Jersey families' deductions was $19,162 in 2017, a figure double the $10,000 cap. But this is not just about New Jersey. The SALT deduction directly benefited more than 46.5 million households, which represents over 100 million Americans. Almost 40 percent of taxpayers earning between $50,000 and $75,000 claimed the SALT deduction, and over 70 percent of taxpayers making $100,000 to $200,000 used it. Imagine that, that spread over millions of households from coast to coast. These are families in New Jersey, Illinois, New York, Minnesota, Kentucky, and Texas. They are not all blue States. That is where you made your mistake. You tried to nail us, and you got everybody else paying through the nose to fund a tax cut, which you know went to Big Business and executives, which didn't invest in the government. It didn't invest in this government bill. It didn't invest in industry. It invested in the pockets of shareholders. We know. Look at the data. When I hold this up at my meetings, your home is worth less than it should be. That has happened all over the country. That is what it has done. Get rid of all the deductions; see what will happen to charity donations. Nor is this just a blue-State issue, like some bad faith critics claim. In 2017, the average SALT deduction exceeded $10,000 in 25 States and the District of Columbia.

Mr. PASCRELL. At least 10 are so-called red States where the average deduction exceeded $9,000, including South Carolina, Idaho, Arkansas, and West Virginia. SALT benefits flow to all communities, like my hometown of Paterson. SALT relief empowers communities to make investments in broadly shared services. I want to emphasize, this package is fully paid for, so don't give me this malarkey that you are concerned about the poor people, all of a sudden. It is like the Sun coming out in the morning, all of a sudden, and we are concerned about the rich. It doesn't work out that way. It doesn't work out that way.

Mr. PASCRELL. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman and Mr. Brady. I thank Messrs. Blumenauer and Buchanan for the great job that they did. I also thank Mr. Lighthizer. He is a different kind of guy, and I really believe that he was essential to getting to this vote today. In my entire political life, I have never had anyone say to me, as was said today, that if you vote against this, you are voting for the status quo. I even have a Jerry Garcia tie on today. Me and the status quo don't agree most of the time. So there are some questions that do remain. The ship of human rights has not been righted. The President never once mentioned in any speech, during 2016 until now, about human rights and about workers' rights in discussing NAFTA. Mexican workers are still being treated like chattel, American jobs will still flow through other countries, and sham protection unions will still own the day. This bill has made many improvements, but it is not enough. Some can say: Is there ever enough? There are too many questions. Will Mexico be held accountable to fully enforce their labor laws? We don't know.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 5377. The bill is a carefully crafted and balanced package of tax relief created to address the injustice done to our middle-class families by the SALT cap. Remember, if you are rich, you get double taxed. If you are not so rich, you get double taxed. That is what we are talking about here. It is the product of months of hard work by members of our committee and the working group led by Mr. Thompson. I thank the gentleman from California for the time he spent on this and for not giving up. I am grateful to our many other colleagues from other States, blue and red. I also thank our committee chair, the gentleman from Massachusetts, for his leadership and hard work. I strongly urge all of my colleagues to support this important legislation. I am going to conclude with this, Madam Speaker. They have only talked about one side--the other side has done this--about what happens to those ``millionaires'' if, in the bill, we pay for it by increasing the personal income tax from 37 percent to 39 percent, from where it was before. Have you subtracted that from what you are going to get back on their taxes? No, you haven't, because you have done it in a dishonest way. That is why the middle class gets shafted. Not this time.

Mr. PASCRELL

Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, we are here today because of the failure of so many to cast aside narrow ambition to confront the threats standing before us. Offered the chance to investigate this government together, the President and his party stonewalled and obstructed. We are here today because we choose comfort over courage and avarice over the Republic. This is the ongoing tragedy of our age. And it is ongoing. The matter is now solely in our hands and belongs to us and us alone. The buck has stopped. Many have invoked the judgment of history as an anecdote to this threat, but the threat to democracy is here today, not tomorrow. We need not and we must not await the verdict of time for Donald Trump's abuse of power and obstruction. We can offer that verdict right now, and we are.