Ileana Ros-Lehtinen

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, as early as March 6, 2018, hundreds of thousands of young immigrants, who are as American as you, could be forced to leave our great country. The United States is their home, and the DACA program has afforded these DREAMers the opportunity to come out of the shadows, work legally, and pursue their educational goals. They are buying homes, creating businesses, working in our schools and hospitals, and contributing to our economy. Simply put, they are active members of our community. Mr. Speaker, Congress can save these young Americans from deportations. I have introduced, along with my friend, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, legislation that will ensure DREAMers can continue to fully participate in the American way of life and one day even become proud American citizens. The love for this country is already embedded in their hearts. There are other alternatives that we can pass, such as the RAC Act, sponsored by my good friend and Florida colleague, Congressman Curbelo; and the BRIDGE Act, sponsored by my friend, Congressman Coffman, that gives DREAMers a chance to continue to build their future. Congress has less than 6 months to act. The clock is ticking, Mr. Speaker. Let's do what is right and vote on these bills.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, the tragic announcement made by the Trump administration to kill the DACA program is heartbreaking, reckless, and wrong. This decision means that our country is turning its back on 800,000 young, hardworking immigrants who only know America as their home. Each of these DREAMers has a compelling story and a desire to pursue their educational and professional opportunities, while strengthening our Nation. Mr. Speaker, that is why I am proud to have introduced the DREAM Act along with my good friend, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, to give these young individuals the certainty to plan for a future in our great country, their great country. For too long, their dreams have been put on hold and they have been living under constant fear. I call on each one of my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats, to come together so that we can pass a legislative solution that is humane. This is long overdue, Mr. Speaker. Let's not wait months for a vote. The lives of hundreds of thousands of bright, talented, and patriotic young men and women are at stake. Mr. Speaker, let's show now that Congress does indeed have a heart.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, today I want to recognize the plight of Yon Goicochea, a 36-year-old political prisoner who is being unjustly detained in a Venezuelan prison. On August 29, 2016, Mr. Goicochea was arrested by the Venezuelan secret police because of his role as a leading advocate for a democratic and transparent Venezuela. Over the past decade, Mr. Goicochea has played a crucial part in leading pro-democracy movements in Venezuela. At one point, he even led the pro-democracy opposition party, ``Voluntad Popular.'' After working for various opposition movements, Mr. Goicochea found himself and his family increasingly under threat by the repressive Maduro regime. Mr. Goicochea made the decision to leave Venezuela with his family in 2013 and come to the United States to pursue a degree in Law from Columbia University. Three years later, Mr. Goicochea returned to Venezuela to fight for freedom, democracy and human rights. Mr. Goicochea has remained in prison since his arrest in 2016. As highlighted in a recent report by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Arbitrary Detentions Group, Mr. Goicochea has been denied the right to due process and subject to brutal forms of solitary confinement. Unfortunately, Mr. Goicochea is only one of thousands to have been unjustly imprisoned by the Maduro regime. The United States must address these egregious human rights abuses by fully implementing and applying additional sanctions against Maduro regime officials who continue to violate the most basic principles of human rights and liberty and who are responsible for the plight of the Venezuelan people. Maduro and his thugs must not be allowed to continue to oppress the people of Venezuela without paying a significant price. We must demand the release of all the political prisoners who have been denied their fundamental human rights. The Venezuelan people have illustrated an unrelenting resolve to bring about a just and democratic Venezuela. Just during the past three months, over ninety people have been killed, thousands injured, and hundreds have been subject to politically motivated arrests, as the people of Venezuela have taken to the streets to protest the undemocratic nature of this brutal regime. The United States must stand with Mr. Goicochea, all political prisoners, and the people of Venezuela in their pursuit of a democratic society.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about the alarming crisis that is ocean acidification. This is not only an environmental issue, but it is an economic issue as well, and one that greatly impacts my congressional district in south Florida. South Florida's world-famous beaches, delicious seafood, incomparable fishing, boating, and sailing, and spectacular marine life are all dependent on a healthy ocean. However, our oceans are becoming more and more acidic as seawater absorbs increasing amounts of carbon pollution, causing what is known as ocean acidification. This increased acidity makes it harder for corals, oysters, shrimp, lobster, and other sea animals to develop their shells or skeletons, which they rely on for survival to grow. These organisms are extremely important to the vitality of our ecosystem. In addition, corals host a vast number of ocean species, protects coastlines from large waves and hurricanes, and attract visitors with its beauty. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--NOAA-- also suggests that tourism, recreation, and fishing related to south Florida's coral reefs alone generates more than $4.4 billion in local sales and $2 billion in local income. Ocean Conservancy, which is a tremendous environmental advocacy group, has been a champion in raising awareness about the negative impact of ocean acidification. Recently, they premiered an outstanding documentary, a short film which highlighted two gentlemen who either work for or own ocean-dependent businesses that are located in my congressional district. Dale Palomino, right over here, this fine-looking young man, he is the general manager and head chef at Captain's Tavern Restaurant and Seafood Market, a family-owned business in Miami and one of my favorite places to dine with my husband, Dexter, and our grandkids. And Captain Ray Rosher, right here, who owns and operates Miss Britt Charter Fishing and R&R Tackle in Coconut Grove, also located in my congressional district. In addition, this film highlights ocean expert, Dr. Chris Langdon, a professor from my alma mater, the University of Miami--Go Canes. His research on coral reef ecosystems has allowed us to better understand the capacity and limitations of coral to adapt to a changing physical and chemical environment. Dr. Langdon has also been a leader in bringing stakeholders together to learn about the threats posed by ocean acidification to commercial and recreational fishing and tourism industries throughout Florida. These two gentleman know a lot about the impact of ocean acidification on their business because saltwater recreational and commercial fishing combined support an estimated 175,000 jobs across our beautiful Sunshine State. Mr. Speaker, it is truly astounding the amount of jobs and revenue that come out of ocean-related industries. Our country enjoys thousands of miles of coastlines with so many people benefiting from their environment and providing jobs and nutrients for their family. From the oyster hatcheries in the Pacific Northwest, to the lobster in Maine, and South to the reefs and fish in Florida, the real world implications of ocean acidification will spell trouble for these ocean-dependent jobs, which is why we must not wait until the tragedy truly unfolds. My constituents and I are also blessed to live, to work, and to play in the paradise that is south Florida. Our kids and our grandkids, they want to enjoy the same positive experiences we have, but in order to do so, it is vital that we act now. In Congress, we need to do a better job at listening to all stakeholders who are speaking out, and we need to continue to promote the valuable work of researchers, people like Dr. Langdon, the work that they are doing to ensure that these important marine research institutions and organizations have the resources they need. My district is home to a community that cares deeply about the ocean, and it is because of the efforts of folks like these two gentlemen and Dr. Langdon of south Florida that I have learned more about the issues and what is at stake. I remain committed to continue to work with my colleagues, with industry experts, with all stakeholders in tackling head-on these important issues and lead in mitigation and adaption solutions to the changing ocean around us and, indeed, across the globe.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Royce, as well as my good friend, the ranking member, Mr. Engel, for their help in bringing H. Res. 317 to the floor today and for their tireless efforts to hold the Iranian regime accountable for all of its illicit activity, including the taking of American citizens and U.S. legal permanent residents as hostages. They have been incredible supporters of this movement, and I thank them for their unwavering support. Of course, I want to thank Ranking Member Nita Lowey for her help--I had the opportunity of meeting one of the family members with her before this presentation--and Judge Poe, who is always at our side; and my south Florida colleague and my dear friend, Ted Deutch, the ranking member on our Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee. We have all joined together in authoring and introducing this resolution. The resolution, Mr. Speaker, is important for all of us. But for Ted Deutch, for my friend from south Florida, I know how very personal this is for him because it is his constituent, Bob Levinson, who continues to be held by Iran 10 years after his disappearance. Just yesterday, Ted and I convened a hearing in our Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee with some of the family members who are named in this very resolution. Doug Levinson, for example, Bob's youngest child, testified. Babak Namazi, son of Baquer and brother of Siamak testified. Omar Zakka, son of Nizar, testified. All three of them testified before our subcommittee, and their stories were moving, they were heartfelt, and they were heartbreaking. Each one, along with their families, forced to live in their own personal hell. In Doug Levinson's case, Mr. Speaker, he presented photos, emails, even videos of his father who, after more than 10 years, is the Nation's longest held hostage in our history. What a sad distinction. We heard how Iran has reportedly and repeatedly failed to live up to its promise to assist in Bob's case and help return him to his loved ones, including the five grandchildren that Bob has yet to meet. We heard Omar plead for his father's life, as Nizar is now 1 month into his fifth hunger strike. But this time, Mr. Speaker, Nizar has vowed that there will be no turning back. Nizar says that he will continue with his hunger strike for himself and the others who are unjustly held by Iran, stating, it is ``liberty or death; there is no turning back.'' So can you imagine, Mr. Speaker, being 19 years old, a teenager, and he is testifying in front of us yesterday, and he is hearing his father say that he is willing to die in Iran in pursuit of truth and justice, and his throat was breaking as he is testifying in front of us. We also heard Babak distress over the health of his father and his brother, two loved ones. Mr. Namazi's father has lost more than 30 pounds in Iran's notorious prisons. He is 81 years old. He suffers from a severe heart condition. He had to be hospitalized twice in just the past few months. Babak fears that his father's physical and mental condition--they are both rapidly deteriorating. His brother, he fears, has given up hope because of the horrific conditions he is being held under. He is kept in isolation. He is mentally abused. He is physically abused. That is horrifying. That is heartbreaking. Though we heard the sorrow in their voices, Mr. Speaker, we also heard defiance and determination. Defiant in accepting the Iranian regime's absurd claims against Bob, against Baquer, against Siamak, against Nizar; defiant in accepting that their fates are sealed, that there is nothing more that can be done; defiant in remaining silent as their loved ones suffer under the terror regime in Tehran. We saw their determination--determination as each of the witnesses before us yesterday vowed that their fight is not nearly over, that they remain determined that they can force the return of their loved ones. And they looked to us, Mr. Speaker, they looked to us to use our positions as Members of the United States House of Representatives to pressure the Iranian regime to release all American citizens, all American legal permanent residents, unconditionally. They looked to us to demand that Iran be held accountable for its tactic of taking our people hostage in order to get financial or political concessions. They looked to us to stand up and to decry this practice for what it is--morally corrupt, ethically corrupt, and legally wrong. That is why Nita, and Ted, and Judge Poe, and Chairman Royce, and Ranking Member Engel, and I introduced this resolution before us today, and that is why Ted and I convened our hearing yesterday; and that is why, today, I am urging all of our colleagues to stand in solidarity with us, with the family members, with the hostages, and demand that Iran release all American citizens and legal permanent residents that it is holding hostage immediately and unconditionally.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I hope that our colleagues will indeed stand with us. I hope that this resolution sends a strong message to Iran that this practice will not be tolerated. And I hope that it sends a strong message to our own administration that Congress is heavily invested in the fate of Americans being held by Iran and that we will demand action to win their unconditional release, their immediate release.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Lieutenant Commander Miguel Santiesteban, who is receiving the U.S. Navy's nomination to be commander. Having fled Castro's regime at a young age, Miguel moved with his family to south Florida. Driven by his desire to serve our great country, Miguel joined the Navy in 1989. While stationed in Japan as a deck seaman, Miguel was one of the few selected to attend the Hospital Corpsman ``A'' School. He earned a master's degree in healthcare service administration at my alma mater, Florida International University. Miguel was commissioned in 2001 and completed his first duty assignment at the U.S. Naval Hospital in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He is currently an administrative officer for research and development at the U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. Miguel has earned many accolades, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the NATO Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal several times. Miguel lives the Navy's core values of honor, courage, commitment. I join Lieutenant Commander Miguel Santiesteban's family and friends in congratulating him on this well-deserved nomination. We are so proud of you, Miguel.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to highlight the Care Corps Demonstration Act, a bill that Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham and I will be introducing this week. Every year, millions of seniors and individuals with disabilities find themselves in need of long-term care and services. However, our Nation faces a critical shortage of caregivers. To address this growing problem, I have joined Michelle to introduce the Care Corps Demonstration Act. This commonsense and bipartisan bill will create a grant program that will provide compassionate young men and women an opportunity to gain valuable experience working with seniors and individuals with disabilities across our great land. Care Corps will not only help empower our young adults to meet our Nation's senior needs, but it will also provide them with essential educational assistance and give them an opportunity to start or further their careers as caregivers. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to cosponsor this bill so that our seniors and those with disabilities receive the care they so desperately need while empowering our youth to advance their careers.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Log Cabin Republicans as it celebrates 40 years of advocating and advancing equality and justice for LGBT Americans. Formed by a small group of LGBT conservatives in California, Log Cabin Republicans emerged to defeat what is known as the Briggs Initiative, a measure prohibiting gay teachers from teaching in public schools. This measure was rejected, thanks to the tireless work of this organization and President Reagan with his forceful opposition to the discriminatory policy. Since then, Log Cabin Republicans have expanded their presence and created over 50 chapters across our great Nation, including in my hometown of Miami. Together we have won many great victories and have taken a historic stride toward equality with the repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and the legalization of marriage equality. Mr. Speaker, as a proud ally of the LGBT community, I commend Log Cabin Republicans for advancing our principles of limited government, individual freedoms, and personal responsibility to create a more inclusive party that ensures fairness and equality for all Americans. Happy 40th to LCR.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, last night I was proud to present my legislative director, Gabriella Boffelli, with the Vermillion Award of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute, CHLI, named after the late Steve Vermillion, the former chief of staff to Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart. This award is presented each year to two staffers who exemplify Steve's huge heart and dedication to freedom. None are more deserving than Gaby, and her fellow honoree, Angela Ramirez. Since starting as an intern in my Miami office 6 years ago, Gaby has risen through the ranks, year after year, serving our south Florida community with wisdom, grace, and integrity. Now completing a master's degree at Johns Hopkins University, Gaby is the consummate public servant, selflessly working on behalf of our constituents, while constantly fighting for democracy and human rights in places like Nicaragua. It has been an honor to have Gaby Boffelli on my team, and I know this is just the beginning of an extraordinary career. Congratulations, my friend. Felicidades, mi amiga.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in great admiration of Harve Mogul, who, for more than a quarter century, has served as the CEO of United Way of Miami-Dade. Through its many successful programs in education, financial stability, and health, this wonderful organization strives to create a stronger Miami. Harve has been dedicated to public service from a young age, serving as a teacher in the Peace Corps and working at several United Way chapters across our great Nation. In 1991, he took on the great task of leading the Miami chapter, where he arduously worked to broaden the organization's advocacy and philanthropic efforts. Throughout his tenure, Harve has spearheaded many campaigns, including a national event to advance the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, of which I am proudly a council member. Harve is now ready for a new chapter in his life. He will be stepping down from his CEO position, but he will continue to advance the goals of this noble organization. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of our community and the many individuals who have been positively impacted by Harve's contributions, I want to say thank you to my friend, ``mi amigo.'' He is an inspiration to us all. Good luck and Godspeed to Harve Mogul.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. 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.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, today I rise to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the bombing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, of the Jewish Community Center, also known as AMIA. This cowardly terrorist attack killed 85 people, with hundreds more injured. Yet, nearly 25 years later, the Jewish community and the people of Argentina are still waiting for justice to be served. This was an attack perpetrated by Iran and its terror proxy, Hezbollah. In fact, these individuals you see here on this poster, Madam Speaker, are responsible for the AMIA bombing. We know who they are and the damage they caused. My friend, Alberto Nisman, was appointed as a special investigator in Argentina to look into this terrible bombing. He found clear evidence that linked the Iranian regime and Hezbollah to the AMIA attack and the attack at the Israel Embassy in Buenos Aires just 2 years earlier, in 1992. Tragically, on January 19, 2015, just a few hours before he was set to produce the evidence to the Argentinian Parliament, Alberto was found dead in his apartment under very mysterious circumstances. So here we are, another sad anniversary later. Congress can play a crucial role in the pursuit of justice for the victims of the embassy bombing, the AMIA bombing, and for Alberto's family. This past March, along with Chairman Royce, Ranking Member Engel, Ted Deutch, Jeff Duncan, and Albio Sires, I introduced H. Res. 201, which supports Argentina in its efforts to investigate and hold Iran and Hezbollah accountable for these cowardly acts of terror. Madam Speaker, today, on the 23rd anniversary of the AMIA bombing, we continue to mourn the lives lost on this tragic day, as we strive for justice. I urge my colleagues to support my resolution, and I urge this body to send a strong message to the Jewish community, the people of Argentina, and the Iranian regime that we will not continue to let another anniversary pass without taking meaningful action. Ecuador Homes

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, today I rise to commend a constituent, Nina Vaca, for the humanitarian effort she has undertaken in her home country of Ecuador. On April 16, 2016, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated Ecuador. You can see the devastation still today. It wrecked entire communities, killed hundreds, and left over 25,000 people either injured or homeless. A year later, Ecuador continues to struggle, with hundreds of families still living in tents. Nina has made it her mission to get these families back into homes. Determined to make a difference, she founded TRI for Homes, with the goal of building 40 homes for some of these families. Soon, Nina will compete in an IRONMAN triathlon in Ecuador to raise awareness and support for her cause. I commend Nina for her determination to raise awareness and for building homes for Ecuadorian families. I wish her good luck, and we will all be rooting for her. Captive Nations Week

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to commemorate this week as Captive Nations Week. As a Cuban refugee who had to flee my native homeland of Cuba due to a murderous communist regime, I know how important freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights are. Captive Nations Week serves as a reminder that there are millions of people who continue to live under a brutal, repressive regime. Tomorrow night, on the east steps of the Capitol, I will speak at the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation's Captive Nations Week event called No Che Noche to set the record straight on one of history's most sadistic murderers, Che Guevara. Madam Speaker, our support for those who yearn for freedom and democracy should not be limited to just 1 week. I urge my colleagues to join those around the world who are suffering under oppressive regimes. We as Americans benefit greatly, and we can do more to make sure that others get the same rights and freedoms we enjoy in this great country.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the inspiring work of former Congresswoman Carrie Meek. Hailing from my home State of Florida, Carrie grew up in a family where giving back to the community was a top priority. Throughout her many years of dedicated work, Carrie served as special assistant to the vice president of my alma mater, Miami Dade College, where she was instrumental in the desegregation of the school. In 1982, Carrie became the first African American elected to the floor of the senate, and my husband, Dexter, and I were proud to work alongside her on behalf of our community. Carrie and I later carried our bipartisan efforts to the marbled Halls of Congress. As a Congresswoman, Carrie's coveted seat on the Appropriations Committee allowed her to fight for much-needed aid to south Florida after the devastating impact of Hurricane Andrew. Following her retirement from Congress, Carrie established the Carrie Meek Foundation, promoting programs in housing, education, health, and economic development to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable members of our society. At the age of 91, Carrie continues to demonstrate her affection for selfless public service. She is an example to be followed. Congratulations to Carrie Meek.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami, which has just been named amongst the best children's hospitals in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report. Since 1950, Nicklaus, located in my congressional district, has been a shining light for our community and one of the leading pediatric healthcare centers in the world. Its doctors, nurses, and staff work tirelessly to provide the highest quality of care to children and teens in south Florida every day. Nicklaus also includes the Miami Children's Research Institute, one of the largest providers of clinical research services for children in the Nation. From cardiology to neuroscience, our institute is at the forefront of the development of treatments and medicines which are improving the lives of kids not just in south Florida, but around the world. So, once again, congratulations to Nicklaus on being selected as one of the best children's hospitals in the United States. Thanks to everyone at Nicklaus for continuing to inspire hope and promote lifelong health by providing the best care to every child in our community.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to this Perry amendment which will strip vital language regarding the impact of Department of Defense activities associated with climate change. The Defense Department does so many vital things for the safety and security of the United States and the American people. We all owe the brave men and women who wear the Nation's uniform a debt of gratitude that we can never truly repay. However, we must be cognizant of all the impacts that DOD activities have across the globe. The Defense Department has such a large footprint, and the amount of military construction and other activity that it undertakes year round impacts our environment. How could it not? We are talking about possible implications such as contributions to sea level rise--which is particularly important to my constituents in south Florida--that it would be irresponsible for us to ignore. I have a Coast Guard base in my district, Coast Guard Miami Beach, located right there on the water in Miami Beach, and we know the impact of sea level rise in that area. So as a member of the Climate Solutions Caucus, I urge my colleagues to oppose this Perry amendment. We have got to be clear-eyed, Mr. Chairman, about every possible impact of our military activities, and that includes the impact that we place on our environment.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Robert Lee Becerra, a very special young man from my district who is severely impacted by autism and has made a positive difference in thousands of lives in south Florida. How has he done this? Mr. Speaker, for years, Robert has helped train 6,000 Miami police officers, firefighters, and EMTs to identify people with developmental issues and tailor their actions and responses accordingly. With Robert's help, officers and first responders in south Florida are trained to de-escalate volatile emergency situations involving individuals on the autism spectrum or with mental illness. Robert's assistance in emergency response training has not only helped officers to connect with autism patients on an emotional level, but it has also made a positive impact and has saved many lives in our south Florida community. I thank Robert for his tireless work and participation in police and first responder training for more than 10 years. His efforts have helped make south Florida an even better community for all of us. Thank you, Robert.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, for more than 100 days, the Venezuelan people have been courageously protesting peacefully on the streets against the abusive regime of Nicolas Maduro. Since June, more than 1,400 people have been injured, over 3,600 have been detained, and over 100 people have been killed by Maduro's thugs. Just days ago, Maduro moved opposition leader Leopoldo Lopez to house arrest after more than 3 unjust years in prison. But this diversion tactic is not enough. All political prisoners must be released. Maduro's fraudulent constituent assembly must be stopped. And more names must be added to the sanctions list, especially those human rights abusers who are responsible for the violent actions against innocent civilians. This will send a strong message that the United States stands with the people in their struggle for democracy and for justice for all Venezuelans.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, last week's general assembly meeting of the Organization of American States, the OAS, in Cancun, was intended to get greater support from the region to hold Nicolas Maduro and his regime accountable for their horrific actions against the Venezuelan people. However, we fell short of the 23 votes needed to fully enforce a resolution condemning Maduro for convening a fake constituent assembly with the purpose of undermining the democratically elected national assembly. I commend the 20 nations. Thank you to the 20 nations that stood up to the Venezuelan tyrant; especially I want to single out Barbados, the Bahamas, St. Lucia, Jamaica, Guyana, and Belize. To our allies in the Caribbean who voted with the people of Venezuela and not with the regime, I say: Thank you. And to those who voted against the people of Venezuela and with the regime, my message to you is: Wake up. The Maduro regime is a sinking ship and, as that economy continues to implode, it will take some of the Caribbean nations along with it. It is in the best interest of the Caribbean nations to work with the United States, with Canada, with Mexico, and other regional allies to put an end to the abusive tactics of the Maduro regime once and for all. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, countries like Nicaragua, whose leader Ortega is a kindred spirit of Maduro, spoke out to oppose the meeting and criticized the OAS for what it called interference in Venezuelans' domestic issues. Ortega condemned the OAS for taking its rightful action to apply the Inter-American Democratic Charter for Venezuela, yet Ortega wants us to believe that he is in favor of negotiating in good faith with the OAS to improve the electoral, the political, and the human rights situation in Nicaragua. What a farce. Ortega has been doing Maduro's bidding at the OAS since day one, and we see right through him. Ortega has illustrated time and time again that he is not interested in any reforms, nor is he interested in restoring any democratic values back to the people of Nicaragua. But Ortega was not the only one who abandoned the people of Venezuela. No. El Salvador is another nation that has not once voted alongside the U.S. on issues related to Venezuela, even though we continue to provide funds for the Central American Alliance for Prosperity plan. They like our money. They just don't want to look at things our way at all. Last week, I signed onto a letter led by my dear friend Albio Sires from New Jersey. He wrote this letter to the Department of the Treasury, urging it to designate the El Salvadorian Foreign Deputy Minister Jose Luis Merino as a foreign narcotics kingpin for his ties to illicit activities to drug trafficking, to money laundering, for the FARC--the FARC that is a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. It is pathetic that the Venezuelan regime continues to use certain countries at the OAS as its puppets to shield itself from regional criticism. In the last 2 months, Mr. Speaker, more than 70 people have been killed by Maduro's regime in Venezuela. Hundreds have been arrested. Hundreds have been injured by the violence, including a 17-year-old protester who was shot in pointblank range by pro-Maduro police thugs. It is unacceptable for us to stand idly by as this cruelty continues to happen. It is a disgrace that the region could not come together in a united front to call out the Maduro regime for the violent thugs that they are, a disgrace to our democratic principles and values, and a disgrace to the Inter-American Democratic Charter for which the OAS stands. The deteriorating situation in Venezuela is an important matter for the region, for our own interests, Mr. Speaker. Our message must be to those countries that continue to vote against the people of Venezuela: Stop being cowards. Be courageous. Stand up to those corrupt bullies in Venezuela. Do it for the people of Venezuela. How many more have to give their lives in Venezuela for you to wake up? And if you don't stop to reassess your support for the thug Maduro, and your willingness to turn a blind eye toward the suffering of the Venezuelan people, perhaps America will start to reassess its relationship with you.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank our esteemed chairman as well as the ranking member. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Speaker Ryan's measure which reaffirms America's commitment to NATO, article 5 and the principle of collective defense. Like my colleagues, I believe that NATO has been indispensable in deterring another world war and in protecting our values and ideals. It is our commitment to each other and to those ideals that have made our alliance so strong, so effective. It is that commitment to each other that has enhanced the territorial security and stability of each one of us. Let us not forget that it was following the terrorist attacks of 9/11 that NATO invoked article 5 for the only time in its history, coming to the defense of us, the United States. This was a signal of unity, of strength, and that is what makes article 5 so special. I also appreciate the pledges of our alliance members to share the burden of the cost of our mutual defense by aiming to spend at least 2 percent of their GDP on defense by the year 2024. That is so important, Mr. Speaker, because NATO's role over the years has evolved. We are no longer facing just the threat of communist aggression; we are facing a multitude of threats against our mutual national security interests around the globe, and we need to be prepared for whatever comes our way. I am pleased to reiterate my support for Speaker Ryan's resolution. I thank the chairman and the ranking member for their commitment to NATO and to the principle of collective defense. It is ever so important in these dangerous times.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank, as always, our esteemed chairman, Mr. Royce from California, as well as Mr. Engel from New York, who really run our committee in the most fair, bipartisan way possible. I think that our committee is an example for the rest of the House. But I am so grateful to have worked alongside my chairman and ranking member, and all of the colleagues in the House Foreign Affairs Committee in a bipartisan manner; particularly, Mr. Issa, Mr. Cicilline, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Lowenthal, in introducing and bringing to the floor this important resolution, H. Res. 351, Condemning the Violence and Persecution in Chechnya. Since early April, there have been credible reports that gay or perceived-to-be-gay men in the Russian republic of Chechnya have been rounded up, have been detained, have been put into prison camps by the authorities of Chechnya. And according to international human rights groups and activists on the ground, the situation has rapidly escalated. Despite the international attention and the rage, the beatings and torture did not stop. Men continued to be tortured on a daily basis, and, allegedly, at least 20 men have been killed. The latest reports indicate that lesbians are also being targeted now. This government campaign targeting LGBT individuals is also inciting ``honor killings.'' Families are being threatened and act out of fear of also being persecuted. This is appalling. Putin has given free rein to the Chechen leader and has significant influence over what goes on in Chechnya. Let's not forget Russia's deplorable human rights record of silencing religious minorities, of prohibiting freedom of expression, of restricting free association of LGBT individuals. This is Russia's record. It is Chechnya's as well. Nothing has been done. No perpetrators have been brought to justice. This is why it is up to us in the United States to not sit idly by while this state-sponsored persecution is ongoing. This bipartisan resolution, Mr. Speaker, does not only shed light on this dreadful human rights disaster, but it also calls on the officials of Chechnya to immediately put an end to the abduction and violence of individuals based on their real or perceived sexual orientation. It calls on Putin to uphold the international commitments and protect the human rights of all people upon which Russia has entered. They have signed these commitments, yet they don't fulfill them. It holds accountable those individuals in the attacks who will also be sanctioned under two existing U.S. sanctions laws that we have passed: Sergei Magnitsky Rule of Law Accountability Act and the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. Today, this body has the ability to once again be that strong voice for human rights of all individuals and to send a clear message to any oppressor that the United States will not turn a blind eye against violence, harassment, and discrimination, no matter where it happens. As a country, we have the responsibility to promote our deeply cherished American values and reaffirm our commitment to fundamental freedom, especially for those who live under the shadow of oppression and tyranny. We stand in solidarity with the persecuted, with the religious minorities, with the ethnic groups, with the suppressed women, and, in this case, with the LGBT community, because the respect of human rights of all people remains a U.S. foreign policy priority. I thank my colleagues for their overwhelming support from both sides of the aisle who have supported this important resolution, which sends a unified message that the United States is committed to promoting human rights and that this crisis must end now because this matter is not just an LGBT issue--as important as it is--it is a human life matter and it deserves support from all of us. Everyone deserves dignity. Everyone deserves respect in the place they call home, no matter where that is around the world. It is time to put an end to Chechnya's barbaric LGBT purge. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for the time and I thank the ranking member as well.

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN

Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, also known as NATCA, on its 30th anniversary. Since its foundation, NATCA has worked to guide aviation policies and improve working conditions for its members with one goal in mind: to ensure that passengers arrive safely to our destinations. I would also like to recognize three remarkable individuals--Billy, Jim, and Mitch--whom I have met through NATCA's advocacy efforts. These men are committed to public service, first through their service in our Armed Forces, and then later as air traffic controllers ensuring that Miami's skies remain safe for all. Though Mitch has now retired, I know that his contributions to our Nation have not stopped. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating NATCA and its members on 30 years of outstanding public service.