Erik Paulsen

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate James Hautman of Chaska, Minnesota, who recently won the Federal Duck Stamp Contest for the fifth time. This year, James' design depicts three geese flying at sunset. Since 1934, sales of the Federal Duck Stamp have raised more than $950 million for the conservation of wetlands and national wildlife refuges all over our country. The money raised helps to preserve the habitat of hundreds of species, as well as provide clean water for many communities throughout the Nation. Last fall, a panel of five judges selected James' submission out of 152 total entries, marking the fifth time that he has won the competition. Only two other artists, Mr. Speaker, have ever won the Federal Duck Stamp Contest five times, including James' own brother Joseph. Mr. Speaker, I once again extend my sincere congratulations to James Hautman. Minnesotans are proud to see such a gifted artist from our home State get recognized and use his talents for such a great cause. We wish him the best in his future.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Minnetonka High School boys tennis team on their recent extraordinary State tournament victory. The Skippers won their second consecutive State title, led by Senior Adam Thompson and Junior Ben Wheaton. The team worked hard to win, with a final score of 4-3. This close victory displayed their competitive skill, and the way the Skippers carried themselves after the victory epitomizes the virtue of sportsmanship and humility. Mr. Speaker, with their strong determination and commitment to excellence, these student athletes exemplify the very best of their school and of our community. They excel both on the court and in the classroom. I offer my congratulations to the players, the coaches, and the parents. Congratulations to the Minnetonka boys tennis team on their victory and becoming State champs.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Eden Prairie Boys Baseball team on becoming high school State champs recently. They secured a 5-1 win over Forest Lake. After a challenging first four innings, the Eagles, led by senior pitcher Jack Zigan, came back to win their very first State Championship since 2010. Jack threw a complete game, surrendering only three hits and one unearned run, with an impressive 11 strikeouts. This marked the end of a fantastic season for the Eagles, who finished the year 18-9 after entering the State tournament without a seed. They were never expected to get this far. They were never expected to win, but they defeated the number 1, the number 2, and the number 4 seed teams by a combined score of 25-2. So, Mr. Speaker, once again, I would just like to congratulate this hardworking team of student athletes, their coaches, and their parents for their State Championship win. This really does go to show that perseverance and hard work pay off.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Wayzata High School girls synchronized swimming team, who recently won the Minnesota High School State Championship. The Trojans triumphed at the State meet last month, where the undefeated team earned the championship title for the 11th consecutive year. They faced tough competition, but Wayzata's excellent figure scores put them over the edge to secure the win. This talented team of dedicated girls, led by Head Coach Hensel, worked hard all season, winning each of their meets by at least 11 points. That commitment didn't stop at the pool. It is also in the classroom, where each of these students excelled as well. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to all the members, athletes, students, teachers, coaches, families, and fans of the Wayzata High School girls synchronized swimming team on their outstanding performance this season.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Eden Prairie High School girls lacrosse team for recently winning their third consecutive State title. The Eagles showed perseverance and grit by overcoming an early deficit to The Blake School in the championship game. It was the ninth meeting between these two schools in the State's final in a 10-year period. Eden Prairie rallied back to win 16-10, giving them the State title. The girls' drive for another championship led them to have a 20-1 overall record, the number one ranking in the State, finishing 19th in the country. Senior Naomi Rogge and sophomore Abby Johnson both carried the team by scoring four and six goals, respectively. These student athletes work extremely hard, Mr. Speaker, not only on the lacrosse field, but also in the classroom. Our community is very proud of their hard work and dedication, and I am delighted to share that these young women rose to the occasion and claimed yet another championship. Congratulations to the Eden Prairie Eagles on their win.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to congratulate Chaska Middle School West, the Minnetonka School District, the Osseo Area School District, and Salem Lutheran School in Loretto on being named best communities for music education by the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation. They have all been recognized for outstanding commitment to their music programs. Research has proven that music is vital to a student's education. Music education benefits language development, spatial-temporal skills, and can lead to a higher IQ and increased test scores. Music also brings students together and gives them incentives to practice and strive for more self-improvement. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the administrators, the teachers, instructors, the parents, and the students in these schools and districts for their impressive dedication to music education. They put a lot of time and effort into their music programs, and all that hard work is really paying off.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, according to recent VA analysis, an average of 20 veterans commit suicide per day. Additionally, 20 percent of those who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan suffer from PTSD or major depression. Addressing the mental health of our veterans needs to be a top priority, which is why I am cosponsoring the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers Act, or the PAWS Act. It is an additional way to provide better treatment for our soldiers who are struggling with various forms of mental health following their service and deployment. This initiative allows the VA to create a 5-year program to give organizations grants to pair veterans suffering with PTSD with service dogs to increase their recovery. Studies show that service dogs contribute considerably to one's emotional and psychological well- being. Mr. Speaker, the PAWS Act will help with the recovery of our veterans who have paid a great price in serving our country. It is imperative that our veterans' mental health remains a high priority and that they have access to as many options as possible.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer's is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States, and more than 5 million Americans are currently living with it. Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States cultivates the disease. This disease is not only deadly, but it is also costly. Alzheimer's, as well as other forms of dementia, cost the Nation roughly $259 billion annually. Our communities are stepping up. Last year, I joined the Walk 2 End Alzheimer's event at Target Field, where more than 12,000 people turned out for the cause. It is this passion that has led to initiatives like the Alzheimer's Breakthrough Act, of which I am a cosponsor. This is an important step in finding a cure through the forming of public-private partnerships to pursue different and new research opportunities. Mr. Speaker, we are at a reflection point--an important reflection point for Alzheimer's research. The more commitment we put forward, the more progress that we will make in finding a cure. While we have made significant progress, we will not be satisfied until a cure has been found.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, brilliant minds from around the world come to the United States to pursue advanced degrees. Unfortunately, for many of these individuals, after we train them, after we educate them, we force them to return to their home countries due to our outdated immigration policy. And then guess what? They compete with us. They compete with the American economy, and this makes no sense. That is why I am authoring the bipartisan Stopping Trained in America Ph.D.'s from Leaving the Economy Act, the STAPLE Act, along with my colleague Congressman Quigley. The STAPLE Act exempts individuals born outside the United States from the limits of employment-based green cards and H-1B visas that are awarded annually if that individual has earned a Ph.D. from an American institution in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, or math. Mr. Speaker, by retaining the talent that has benefited from our education system, we can unleash even more economic and innovative opportunity here at home. Not only does the STAPLE Act help promote the American Dream for those from overseas, but it also brings the potential for new invention and ideas that benefit American families and jobs here at home.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, a few days ago on June 4, we recognized National Cancer Survivors Day to honor all of the incredible men and women who have battled cancer and have emerged triumphant. This year, an estimated 1.6 million new cases of cancer will be diagnosed, and nearly 700,000 people will die of cancer in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists cancer now as the second leading cause of death. Fortunately, we are taking steps to lower those numbers. Last year's 21st Century Cures Act, a bipartisan initiative, authorized $1.8 billion in funding for the Cancer Moonshot Foundation, aids in cancer research, and strives to increase the availability of a wide variety of treatment options while also helping to help prevent cancer and detect it at early stages. Mr. Speaker, on National Cancer Survivors Day, we are grateful for those who have won their fight against cancer, and now we commit to honoring more survivors through research for new and improved cures.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Esther Begam, a Holocaust survivor who recently received her high school diploma from Wayzata High School at the age of 88. In 1942, Nazis invaded Poland and forced 11-year-old Esther and her family into a labor camp. Esther tragically lost her mother and her brother in Auschwitz, as well as her older sister in another labor camp. After the war, she married another survivor and moved to Minnesota to start a family. In 2010, she was invited to share her story with the Wayzata High School history class, where she was asked what her biggest regret was, and Esther said she wished she had received her high school diploma. So after hearing her story, the school was able to arrange a graduation ceremony. Last month, Esther was presented with a diploma in front of her children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren, receiving a standing ovation that was 71 years overdue. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Esther Begam on her accomplishment after overcoming an incredibly difficult life challenge. She is truly an inspiration.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I would like to first express my thanks and appreciation as well to the gentlewoman from Indiana (Mrs. Brooks), who is bringing this legislation forward, H.R. 1973, of which I am a proud cosponsor. The bill is the Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse Act. Every year, Mr. Chair, thousands of amateur athletes begin their journey with the goal of one day being able to represent the United States at the Olympics. This journey is often filled with years of dedication, of sacrifice, of multiple setbacks, all in the hopes of rising to the top of their craft. Unfortunately, for some, this journey has also been scarred by sexual abuse, and often this abuse comes from those who are closest to our young athletes. These are the individuals that have been entrusted by families all around the country to look after them, to take care of them, to look after these loved ones during their training. The bill today in the House that we are taking up is a step in the right direction to help ensure that athletes are better protected. It requires mandatory and immediate reporting of incidents of child sexual abuse to both local and Federal law enforcement. No organization should be able to stand idly by when a child is placed in harm's way and becomes a victim. The bill also directs our amateur athletic governing bodies to develop and implement rigorous training and oversight practices to prevent abuse of athletes in the future. Mr. Chair, our amateur athletes and their families should never ever have to worry about their children being abused by those who are closest to them, often in a very trusted relationship. We need to pass this critical legislation to give families the peace of mind and prevent abuse. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Pastor Tim Burt on his retirement. Pastor Burt has a long record of service to his community. He founded American Infant Care Products, which came up with the fold-down infant changing tables found in many restrooms today, helping families of all sorts by providing a convenient way to care for their children. But he also has now served as associate pastor at Living Word Christian Center in Brooklyn Park since 1989, establishing a small group ministry. In this capacity, Pastor Burt oversaw visitor and public relations, pastoral care, and leadership and volunteer departments. His dedication to our community has certainly inspired many Minnesotans over the years. Pastor Burt also served as the Minnesota State director for Christians United for Israel, where he developed a statewide network of leaders passionate about Israel, and has led a trip of fellow pastors to that country. Mr. Speaker, as we recognize Pastor Tim Burt's retirement, we are extremely grateful and proud of the work he has done. I wish he and Renee the very best in their future endeavors.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his work on this on a bipartisan basis with Mr. Courtney. I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1808, the Improving Support for Missing and Exploited Children Act. This important initiative, it builds on the bipartisan work we have already accomplished to combat sex trafficking and child exploitation. Since its creation in 1984, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has worked tirelessly to protect children from being exploited, to reunite missing children with their families, and to provide resources and training to our law enforcement community to help assist in this effort. This legislation today will assist the Center in strengthening its prevention and its recovery programs. One of those programs is the CyberTipline which, since being launched in 1998, has received 12.7 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation. It is programs like this, Mr. Speaker, that go a long way to helping us save lives and put an end to sexual exploitation and trafficking of children. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate Corey Bulman, an English and literature teacher at Mound Westonka High School, on being named Minnesota's Teacher of the Year. This is an extraordinary achievement and a tribute to his enthusiasm both inside and outside of the classroom. Mr. Bulman began teaching at Mound Westonka 17 years ago, where he devoted his entire tenure as an educator to enriching students in the classroom through his creative, imaginative, and insightful curriculums. What sets him apart is the meaningful and empowering connections he develops with his students. As one of his former students said: ``Corey was an adult, who showed me he believed I was smart, and cared about my ideas. He was honest, funny, and made me believe in myself.'' Madam Speaker, there is no doubt that Mr. Bulman has touched so many of his students' lives. He understands how forming these bonds can inspire students for future success. Madam Speaker, I want to congratulate Corey and thank him for dedicating himself on educating, inspiring, and empowering our young students.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, this week, along with Congressman Crowley, we reintroduced the Bike to Work Act. As an avid biker myself, I am thrilled to bring forth an initiative that encourages more biking. This is fitting, given that today is National Bike to Work Day. This bipartisan legislation we have introduced will allow workers to use their pretax commuter benefits for bikeshare programs, just as they already can do for other forms of transportation. According to one report, from 2000 to 2013, the number of bicycle commuters grew by more than 62 percent. As these programs grow, putting them on equal footing with other modes of transportation that commuters use to get to and from work is important. Bikesharing is very popular in Minnesota, and through this initiative, we can ensure that more Americans have the opportunity to get to work with more flexibility and more convenience.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize police officers and our law enforcement community during National Police Week. It is these brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day for us and for our communities; and it is a special time to remember those who have fallen in the line of duty who have actually made the ultimate sacrifice. Police officers from around the country are gathering this week at the national memorial as a part of that remembrance. We must also never forget that serving in law enforcement is a family affair and requires strength and dedication from loved ones as well. As a member of the Law Enforcement Caucus, I know that our communities are better served, and served well, thanks to the unwavering commitment from our police officers who take on countless risks for other people and not just themselves. The badge is not just a symbol of authority but one of selflessness and commitment to the greater good. Mr. Speaker, we owe so much to these police officers for the many difficult decisions and situations that they face every day, and we thank them for keeping us safe.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, we recently learned troubling details surrounding the terms of the Obama administration's nuclear deal with Iran from early last year. As I have said before, the more details we learn about this deal, the more apparent it is that it was neither prudent nor transparent. The safety and security of the American people and our allies around the world should remain a top priority for the United States. But we are learning, according to reports, as part of this prisoner swap with Iran in 2016, the Obama administration released seven prisoners and dropped charges and international arrest warrants of 14 fugitives, many of whom had been directly involved in supplying Iran with U.S.-built equipment or sensitive information that could be used for military systems, primarily Iran's nuclear program. The administration downplayed the security threat that these men posed. In a variety of ways, these individuals deliberately worked to undermine the United States and smuggle American military technology to Tehran. In one instance, a man was allegedly part of a conspiracy to steal sensitive software information from a defense contractor in Vermont. Another one of the men was in the middle of serving an 8-year prison sentence on charges related to a separate conspiracy to provide satellite technology and hardware to Iran. Three of the fugitives were allegedly working to lease an aircraft from Boeing for an Iranian airline that authorities say supported Hezbollah, which the United States, of course, has designated as a terrorist organization. And the list goes on as these are just a few of the cases. All of this poses a serious threat to our national security as sensitive military information and technology could be used to bolster Iran's weapons programs. As you may recall, this comes after we learned last fall that, as a part of the deal, the United States paid $400 million that was contingent on Iran releasing four American hostages. This broke from longstanding United States policy to not pay ransoms to rogue nations because it encourages bad actors like Iran to take more hostages. Again, this was not made known to Congress or the American public. We only learned about it nearly a year after the deal was finalized. What makes this most concerning or more disconcerting is the Obama administration's lack of transparency on the backgrounds of these prisoners. These are not merely civilians or businessmen, as the President and his officials referred to them on multiple occasions. The administration left the impression that these individuals were nothing more than violators of sanctions and not as dangerous as they truly were. Each of these men pose very real threats that the administration hid from the American people. This isn't a partisan talking point, Mr. Speaker. Even President Obama's own Justice Department had accused many of these men of being involved in terrorist activities. I support diplomatic efforts with Iran, and I am hopeful that we can continue to engage in diplomacy and secure a good deal at some point, but this latest news continues to exemplify why both Republicans and Democrats could not and did not support this deal. Iran continues to push every boundary, exploit every loophole, and avoid as much oversight as possible, all while it is antagonizing the rest of the world. It continues to reap the benefits of this deal at the expense of our national security and that of our allies, such as Israel. We continue to learn something new and bad about this deal that wasn't shared with Congress or the public. Our national security is too important to put at risk, and no President's legacy is worth taking that risk. This new information validates many of the concerns that led to the bipartisan opposition to the nuclear deal.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate our ally Israel on its 69th anniversary of independence. For nearly seven decades, Israel has become a beacon of promise and success amid continued challenges. Since the declaration of the State of Israel back in 1948, they have consistently shown the power of democracy and strength in a volatile part of the world. The people of Israel have also proven themselves to be loyal allies to the United States during tumultuous times, serving as a constant reaffirmation of our unbreakable bond. Their resolve cannot be understated, either. Israel consistently keeps its citizens safe, despite security threats on a daily basis. The fact that Israel continues to flourish amid constant efforts to terrorize and daunt them is a signal of the nation's strength. So today we join those in Israel, as well as others around the world, in celebration. Mr. Speaker, let us continue to protect and preserve the unending and unwavering friendship and relationship between America and Israel.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National Charter Schools Week and the 25th anniversary of the opening of the very first charter school. With nearly 3 million students attending public charter schools across the country, 43 States, and the District of Columbia, it is the fastest growing choice option in public education. Minnesota is a leader in developing new innovative ways to educate our students and was the very first State to allow charter schools. Today, Minnesota has 164 charter schools that serve about 57,000 students in kindergarten through the 12th grade. Our State usually ranks among the top in having charter school friendly laws and developing high quality and independent charter school options. As co-chair of the Charter School Caucus, I believe it is important that we do continue to create and develop this educational option. America will continue to lead the world in innovation and ideas if our students receive the best education possible from early childhood all the way through graduate school, and that means ensuring a child's ZIP Code does not determine the outcome of their education and the quality of their education.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, it's been more than three decades since the United States hosted a World's Fair, even as there has been a recent upsurge in local and national interest to do so. Under rules from the Bureau of International Expositions, the U.S. is effectively prevented from hosting Expos and World's Fairs because we are no longer a part of the organization. That's why I'm joining with my fellow Minnesotans, led by Congressman Emmer, and a bipartisan coalition to authorize the U.S. to rejoin the BIE. This effort also urges U.S. government assistance in advancing Minnesota's bid to host EXPO 2023. I believe my home state of Minnesota is the perfect place to usher in a new era for American membership in the BIE. Business, civic, and community leaders in Minnesota have already created the Minnesota's World's Fair Bid Committee to start preparing for this unique opportunity to show what our state, our region, and our country have to offer. We should work with the appropriate federal departments and agencies, and take the necessary steps to ensure the United States rejoins the BIE so that we are not at a disadvantage and so our great cities and states can experience being on display on the world stage.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Wesley So of Minnetonka, Minnesota, who earlier this month became the United States chess champion. At 23 years of age, Wesley is already one of the world's top chess grandmasters. In St. Louis, for the U.S. Chess Championship, Wesley So and his opponent went into a playoff after a two-way tie for first place. In the two-game playoff, So won the first game handily and was able to force a draw in the second game with a perpetual check with his knight. He extended his no-loss streak to 67 games, one of the longest runs in the game's history. Mr. Speaker, Wesley So has quickly made a name for himself in the world of chess since coming to America from the Philippines 5 years ago. He is now the world's number two ranked player and is in prime position to play the world's top player, Norway's Magnus Carlsen. Congratulations to Wesley So on an impressive run of dominance. We will be cheering for him as he continues to work on becoming the first American chess grandmaster in more than 40 years.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to congratulate the Minnetonka High School Boys Alpine Skiing Team on recently winning the Minnesota High School State Championship. Led by seniors Sergi Piguillem and Marshall Quist, who finished with combined times of 1:17:98 and 1:21:39, respectively, the Skippers were able to defeat rival Edina 166-151. This is Minnetonka High School's fifth alpine skiing title in their program's history, which illustrates these athletes' dedication to the pursuit of excellence on the slopes and in the classroom. Their state championship title is a testament to their passion and love for the sport, and commitment in putting their best effort forward in all that they do. Congratulations to head coach Dave Gartner, the parents, and every member of the Minnetonka Alpine Skiing Team on your impressive victory. Our community is proud of you for being tremendous student athletes. Go Skippers.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Minnetonka Boys High School Swimming Team on winning the Minnesota Swim and Dive High School State Championship. After finishing second in the state the past two years, the Skippers were determined to claim the top spot this year. Led by senior Sam Schilling, Minnetonka dominated the competition by winning many of the events and breaking multiple state records along the way too. They even set the National Public High School 200-yard medley relay record, coming in at 1:29:20, a few tenths faster than the previous record set in Indiana earlier this season. The championship victory earned by the boys on the Minnetonka High School swim team is a testament to their unwavering commitment to hard work and excellence. Mr. Speaker, Your families, friends, and our entire community are very proud of each and every one of these outstanding student athletes. Congratulations.

Mr. PAULSEN

Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, today we are taking a very important step to lift the burden of the Affordable Care Act off of the backs of the American people. A key component of this is repealing the burdensome mandates and tax increases that were imposed to help fund this failed law. This includes the medical device tax, a senseless policy that placed an excise tax on lifesaving medical technology. What did this achieve? A loss of 30,000 high-paying American jobs, less research and development, canceled projects, and postponed expansions. Most importantly, it hurt patients. There is good news. Just a few years ago, in 2015, we came together on a bipartisan basis and suspended the tax for 2 years. We are seeing positive results. Companies are now hiring again, we have increased research and development, and we have new investments in facilities coming online. We need to permanently repeal this onerous tax or it is going to start up again. Voting ``yes'' today means permanent repeal of the medical device tax. Mr. Speaker, I am also encouraged to see several provisions I have authored to enhance and expand the use of health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts that are included in this legislation today. HSAs and FSAs are now more popular than ever and used by 20 million Americans. It is time to remove the restrictions on HSAs that were imposed in ObamaCare so that we can make them more accessible and easier to use and empower Americans to take more control of their healthcare decisions. Expanding HSAs will help us also begin to address the rising costs of health care. One recent study showed that, when a large employer switched their employees over to an HSA plan, it lowered their healthcare spending by an average of $900 per employee over a 5-year period. That is real savings, Mr. Speaker. Let's support a better way forward to lower healthcare costs for patients and put them back in control of their healthcare decisions.