Mike Simpson

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate 40 years of the Community Food Basket in Idaho Falls. This is an exceptional organization that is committed to fighting food insecurity in southeast Idaho. In 1980, various members of the Idaho Falls community took it upon themselves to launch an effort aimed at securing emergency necessities for their church membership. Today, four decades later, the efforts of these selfless men and women continue to expand in the Idaho Falls area. Helping more than 4,000 individuals monthly, the Community Food Basket of Idaho Falls serves the public with a noble vision of meeting the needs of those who face food insecurity. In 2019 alone, the Community Food Basket served over 100,000 people and gave away $2.6 million dollars of food in order to provide struggling neighbors with life-saving essentials. Hundreds of volunteers have sacrificed their time and resources and hundreds of businesses have participated in food drives to support those around us in need. Not only has the Food Basket provided countless members of our community with what they need to survive, but they have also highlighted the altruistic, selfless spirit so common in Idaho. Madam Speaker, the Community Food Basket of Idaho Falls is a staple in my community. It is my privilege to applaud this great organization and its selfless volunteers.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an Eastern Idaho Agriculture Hall of Fame inductee, Governor Brad Little. Governor Brad Little has been a champion for agriculture his entire life. His advocacy started while being raised on his family's Emmett, Idaho sheep and cattle ranching operation. Later in life, Little became a public servant and continued to protect and advance the agriculture industry in the Idaho State Senate then as Idaho's Lieutenant Governor and currently as Idaho's Governor. In 1977, Little graduated with an Agribusiness Degree from the University of Idaho. He went on to work on his families ranching operation. With over three decades of managing the farming and ranching, our Governor is a leader who understands what it takes to be successful in agriculture. In 2001, Little began his public service career when he was appointed to fill an Idaho State Senate seat. In the senate, he focused on the agricultural affairs, resources and environment, and economic outlook. As a member of these committees, Little played a substantial role ensuring the security and increasing productivity of farms and ranches across Idaho. He went on to become both Idaho's Lieutenant Governor and Governor where he has continued to promote and defend agriculture in Idaho. Whether he is meeting with the President in the White House or a neighbor on his family farm in Emmet, he can be found wearing cowboy boots, and demonstrating a commitment to hard work and integrity. Governor Little is a proud voice for Idaho and our agriculture community, and I am honored to call him a friend. Madam Speaker, I would like to join the Eastern Idaho agriculture community in congratulate Governor Brad Little on being inducted into the 2020 Eastern Idaho Agriculture Hall of Fame.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend and now an Eastern Idaho Agriculture Hall of Fame inductee, Director Celia Gould. Director Celia Gould was born into farming and ranching and has dedicated her life to this important industry. As a the third- generation owner/operator of G+ Ranches, she raises Black Angus, Angus- Wagyu, wheat, corn, and hay. In addition to her farming and ranching operations, she has volunteered herself as an advocate and friend to the famer. For nearly three decades Gould has been in public service, serving her community in several influential roles. Gould served 16 years in the Idaho House of Representatives before being appointed in 2007 to her current position as the first female to fill the role of Idaho State Department of Agriculture Director. Gould's contribution the Idaho's Agriculture Industry are immeasurable and appreciated by all of us who are fortunate to associate with her. Madam Speaker, I would like to join the Eastern Idaho agriculture community in congratulating Director Celia Gould on being inducted into the Eastern Idaho Agriculture Hall of Fame and for her vast contribution to Idaho's Agriculture Industry.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Rick Keller on his outstanding and impactful tenure as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Idaho Farm Bureau. Rick has dedicated the past 41 years of his life to the Farm Bureau and protecting the many great farmers of Idaho. Throughout his leadership, total membership increased 39 of the 41 years he held the office of CEO. Over the years, Rick has been an active and spirited member of the Idaho Farm Bureau. Originally starting as a field manager for Southeast Idaho, Rick worked fervently and eventually was named Organizational Director. Under this title he has worked with members and officials from each of the 37 individual county Farm Bureaus to ensure ample access to county, state, and national insurance benefits for each member. Along with these benefits, the Bureau protects member farmers through creating and pushing legislation both on the State and National level, working closely with appointed officials for the benefit of our farmers. I had the pleasure of working with Rick at the State and Federal level. Admirably, one of Rick's favorite jobs was working with the many volunteer leaders within the organization, who forfeit their free time in order to help farmers and ranchers. Even though he progressed to a higher office, he never forgot his roots. Madam Speaker, Rick Keller's many years of service and advancement of farmers across our state, as well as his example to the citizens of Idaho will be widely missed. I commend the work he has done over the years. May he enjoy his retirement with his wife Alene.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, February has been dedicated as the National Children's Dental Health Month. This is such an important cause and I am pleased to help bring awareness to the value of good oral health in children. Tooth decay is the number one chronic infectious disease among children in the U.S. The impact of not treating decay can lead to other harmful outcomes beyond just oral health. As co-chair of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus, I am pleased to support National Children's Dental Health Month and any activities taking place throughout the month of February. Give Kids A Smile, which is sponsored by the American Dental Association (ADA) is at the center of National Children's Dental Health Month. Give Kids A Smile day is an important event for all children and dentists throughout the country. Because of this program, the ADA is able to provide assistance to more than 6,500 dentists and 25,000 dental team members, and other volunteers who proudly give their time and effort to make a difference in the health of children. Since this program has started, volunteers have graciously provided services to over 6 million kids across the country, and to all 50 states and the District of Columbia as well. They have truly made a huge impact in their communities and improved the oral health of so many children. Throughout National Children's Dental Health Month, dentists and dental team members across the country will be providing oral health services for children in need, and this will continue throughout the year. These services will include oral health education, screenings, preventive care and restorative services. Some will provide this in their own dental practice, others will go right into schools and the community to reach the kids that need it most. There are also many major events at dental hygiene schools where hundreds of kids may receive oral health services. Continued public awareness on this issue is so critical. On behalf of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus, I would once again like to state our full endorsement for the month, and push for continued care for good oral health of children.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Frank and Belinda VanderSloot for receiving the 2020 Alturas Institute John and Abigail Adams Award in recognition of their commitment to service and equal protection under the law. Frank and Belinda VanderSloot have dedicated their time, talents and treasures to the betterment of our world. When disaster strikes and the world wonders what can be done, the VanderSloots act. Donated trucks, planes, and cargo ships stocked with lifesaving supplies act as an answer to prayers for those whose lives have been turned upside down by natural disaster. Thanks to their incredible partnership with the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army countless lives have been blessed and lives have literally been saved. The list of their philanthropy is lengthy, from sponsoring an orphanage in Ecuador or the renovation and donation of a school in Idaho Falls. Family farms have been saved, business have flourished, and scholarships granted all because the VanderSloots choose to act. Most recently Frank and Belinda have added to their legacy assisting hundreds of people who find themselves in the jaws of overly aggressive medical debt collectors. In establishing a one-million-dollar defense fund, they have given a voice to the voiceless. Madam Speaker, Frank and Belinda VanderSloot give because of the goodness of their hearts, not for applause or accolades; which is why I stand today to congratulate them on receiving the 2020 Alturas Institute John and Abigail Adams Award and to thank them for `enhancing lives and doing good where good is needed'.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to thank Dr. David C. Pate for his service to the great state of Idaho as he retires from St. Luke's Health System following a decade of achievement and success there. I'm proud to say one of the best health care systems in the United States is in my home state of Idaho, thanks in large part to Dr. Pate's transformative leadership. Dr. Pate has served as president and CEO of St. Luke's Health System for the past 10-plus years. When Dr. Pate came to St. Luke's in 2009, he pledged to turn the health-care system into a national leader in quality. He has done exactly that. Under his leadership, St. Luke's has earned the distinction of being a Top 15 Health System in the U.S. for six years in a row; it is one of only four in the entire nation to have achieved this objective level of excellence, ranking it with the Mayo Clinic. His academic background is equally impressive. Dr. Pate received his bachelor's degree from Rice University, his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine and his law degree cum laude from the University of Houston Law Center. He completed his residency training at Baylor College of Medicine and is board-certified in internal medicine. A physician and a lawyer, Dr. Pate has been a wealth of knowledge regarding health-care policy and law and a sought-after speaker throughout his career. As noteworthy as Dr. Pate's career and accolades are, what has struck me the most about him is how he treats everyone he meets. He is an ethical, approachable and personable man, and his warm and genuine demeanor, coupled with his remarkable expertise, has made him an inspiring leader to medical professionals in Idaho and across the country. He has mentored many young professionals and mid-career executives, and gone out of his way to meet with and advise leaders and executives in health care, education and other industries. At St. Luke's, Dr. Pate has been known to surprise hardworking employees with cards, gifts, pop-up pizza parties, and other gestures of appreciation and respect. He has touched the lives of nurses, physicians, support staff members, and patients. He has shaved his head to support children with pediatric cancer, donned a pink mullet to bring awareness to breast cancer--and regularly, without fanfare, has given blood to support all those in need through the American Red Cross. In addition to his medical career, Dr. Pate is an author, lecturer, teacher, volunteer and active member of various professional boards and committees. A father of two adult daughters and a proud grandfather, Dr. Pate and his wife, Lynette, call the Treasure Valley of Idaho home. I am proud to honor Dr. Pate for his service to health care in Idaho, and would like to congratulate him on a well-deserved retirement.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize Steve Martinez for his hard work, commitment and dedication to the Idaho State Home Builders Association. Last year was not an easy year for the State Home Builders Association. While the economy and businesses were booming, the association had a difficult year with the passing of Executive Officer, Frankie Hickman, who ran not only the local Building Contractors Association for Western Idaho, but also the State Association for 27 years. Steve is not only a hard worker and driven individual, but he is also a kind and compassionate person. He recognized the need of helping Frankie through her most difficult stretches and when the time came, he picked up the pieces and supported the staff as well as his peers within the association. Steve Martinez grew up in the home building industry, his father was a custom homebuilder, a Past President of the local Building Contractors Association as well as Idaho State President. Steve followed in his father's footsteps in many ways, including his profession and positions within the home builder associations. Steve is also the national builder representative and is a member of the National Association of Home Builders Finance Committee. He recently received several awards including `One to Watch' from the National Association. I personally have had the pleasure of getting to know Steve and have appreciated the opportunity to work with him. He is extremely professional and passionate about home ownership and the needs of his community. I congratulate Steve on his 2019 Special Recognition Award, as it is well deserved

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, for personal reasons, I was unable to attend votes. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 18--H. Res. 798 on agreeing to Res; YEA on Roll Call No. 19--H.R. 1230 Amend. No. 3; YEA on Roll Call No. 20--H.R. 1230 MTR; and NAY on Roll Call No. 21--H.R. 130 on passage.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, for personal reasons, I was unable to vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 5--Prev. Question, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 6--H. Res. 781, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 7--H. Con. Res. 83, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 8--H.R. 5078, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 9--Burgess of Texas Part B Amdt. 2, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 10--Balderson of OH Part B Amdt. 6, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 11--Pappas of NH Part B Amdt. 13, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 12--MTR, and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 13--H.R. 535.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, for personal reasons, I was unable to vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 2--Previous Question, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 3--H. Res. 779, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 4--H.R. 2881.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding time. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1865, the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2020, and particularly division C, the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Madam Speaker, before I get into the details of the bill, I would like to thank several Members involved in this effort: my chairwoman, Marcy Kaptur, and our Senate partners, Lamar Alexander and Dianne Feinstein. The four of us have now worked several Energy and Water conferences together, and I continue to appreciate the collegiality and determination to advance national and constituent interests that my colleagues bring to the discussions. Madam Speaker, I would also like to thank our full committee leadership, Chairwoman Lowey and Ranking Member Granger here in the House and Chairman Shelby and Ranking Member Leahy in the Senate, for their leadership and support throughout this year's process. As ranking member of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I believe this fiscal year 2020 Energy and Water bill is a good bill, and I am pleased that so many House Republican priorities are included in this final bill. First and foremost, the bill strongly supports our national nuclear security programs, providing a total $16.7 billion for the National Nuclear Security Administration, including weapons activities, defense nuclear nonproliferation, and naval reactors. Weapons activities specifically is funded at $12.5 billion, an increase of $1.4 billion above fiscal year 2019. Within this amount, the bill fully funds the maintenance and modernization of our nuclear weapons systems, including each nuclear weapon life extension, alteration, and modification program, as well as activities to rebuild production capabilities for strategic materials, such as plutonium pits. Next, the bill includes substantial investments in our Nation's water resources infrastructure. The Corps of Engineers is funded at a total of $7.65 billion, an increase of $651 million above last year. Within this amount, an estimated $1.63 billion is for the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund activities. That level exceeds the annual HMTF target. In fact, it represents 91.5 percent of the estimated revenues, compared to the revenue fiscal year 2020 target of 80 percent established in WRRDA in 2014. Finally, one of my personal priorities, the bill promotes innovation and growth in nuclear energy, funding research, development, and demonstration activities at $1.3 billion, an increase of $160 million above fiscal year 2019. Within this amount, the bill establishes a new advanced nuclear reactor demonstration program. The goal is to build two demonstration reactors by the mid-2020s, in a move towards commercializing the next generation of carbon-free nuclear energy technology to be deployed here in the United States and around the globe. I am also pleased to see several provisions included in other divisions of this bill. Specifically, the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill includes many important policies and funding provisions to ensure that sage grouse remain off the endangered species list. The agreement could not be more important for rural counties thanks to full funding for PILT and 2 years of SRS funding. This agreement is historic because it will be the first time the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior will have access to budget cap adjustments for wildfire fighting. This allows wildfires finally to receive equal treatment with other natural disasters and allows our land management agencies to focus on prevention efforts to get ahead of the issue. In the Agriculture Appropriations bill, this agreement delivers vital research funding for potatoes, grain, and other commodities, and it signals an important step forward for the sheep station in Dubois, Idaho, and acknowledges the diverse stakeholders who seek to collaborate and grow future research at the station. I am eager to continue the momentum to build capacity at Dubois. Finally, and probably most importantly, I thank the staff of all of our subcommittees, but particularly the ones I work with on Interior and Energy and Water. They do a tremendous job for us. They are here on weekends. They are here during holidays and other times behind the scenes, actually putting together these bills. This is a job we could not do without their support. All in all, this appropriations package, including the Energy and Water division, is a strong bill that incorporates many priorities, and I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I rise today in favor of H.R. 5038, the Farm Workforce Modernization Act, and I thank Chairwoman Lofgren, her staff, the committee staff, and the personal staff of all the Members who have been working on this bill for, I don't know, 8 or 9 months. We all want the same thing, and we are here today addressing agriculture's number one issue, and that is their labor force. We will hear a lot during this debate, and we already have, about how this is amnesty and indentured servitude. It is neither of those things. In fact, those are contradictory terms, so the argument at best is insincere. Let me say what this bill does. It legalizes the current workforce so long as workers get right with the law, have a clean criminal record, and can demonstrate the same work experiences our former colleague Bob Goodlatte said they must have to qualify. If they want to access further legal status, they work 4 to 8 more years in agriculture and then pay a fine and get in line while they continue to work in agriculture. That doesn't sound like amnesty to me. For my farmers back home who desperately need this, the bill streamlines the H-2A program to make it more affordable. It doesn't do everything we want, but it makes it better than what we have today, in fact, much better than what we have today. It brings wages under control by freezing them for 1 year and then capping future growth. There will be a single online portal for farmers to access workers. It will also set up a year-round program for our dairymen, which they don't currently have. Some people have said this is a great bill for dairymen, but not the rest of agriculture. That is not true. This streamlines the H-2A program for all of agriculture, so it is a good bill for all of agriculture. Finally, and again to my friends on my side of the aisle, almost all of us support E-Verify, and here it is. We have E-Verify in this bill. Agriculture is the backbone of Idaho's economy. Without this bill, how can we pretend to say that we care about rural America? This bill has the support of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Americans for Prosperity, Cato Institute, and over 300 agricultural groups, which have already been entered into the Record. This is the voice of rural America saying they need this. I urge a ``yes'' vote on this bill, and I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to keep moving this bill forward so that it can ultimately be signed into law and solve a critical problem in America.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, for personal reasons, I missed the first vote series today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 657, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 658, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 659.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, today I wish to congratulate Dr. Stephen G. Johnson, a researcher at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). At its recent annual meeting in Washington, D.C., the American Nuclear Society (ANS) honored Dr.Johnson as a Fellow, which is the highest member status presented to an individual. Dr. Johnson was recognized for his outstanding accomplishments in nuclear science and technology, specifically highlighting his work in rebuilding the national radioisotope power system program for NASA's deep space exploration. Dr. Johnson holds a bachelor's degree with a double major in mathematics and chemistry from Lake Superior State University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Iowa State University. He currently serves as the director of the Space Nuclear Power and Isotope Technologies Division at INL's Materials and Fuels Complex. During his tenure at INL, Dr. Johnson has successfully reestablished the Radioisotope Power Systems program, initiated the Technical Integration Office for Radioisotope Power Systems, and most recently named the National Technical Director, for the Department of Energy's (DOE) national Space Nuclear Power program. Steve and his staff focus on cross-cutting initiatives, mission planning scenarios for nuclear power systems for DOE customers, such as NASA, and providing resources for various other needs for DOE's Space Nuclear Power department. For the last few years, Steve has been a regular visitor to Capitol Hill, presenting an overview of the Department of Energy space power work for NASA at lunches hosted by the Foundation For Nuclear Studies. This summer, my staff and I had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Johnson in his facility where they were assembling the radioisotope thermoelectric generator that will power the Mars 2020 Rover. It is a great privilege to congratulate Dr. Stephen G. Johnson on receiving this prestigious recognition, and I am grateful for his exceptional work in the field of nuclear science and technology. His accomplishments are a reminder of the many skilled researchers and scientists currently working and living in Idaho. Congratulations to Steve on his accomplishments and I thank him for all of his hard work.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jay Hildebrandt on an incredible broadcasting career. Award-winning anchor and reporter Jay Hildebrandt, has been a staple in the community for decades. Jay began his career in Twin Falls, Idaho at KMVT-TV where he anchored for two years. After moving away for a few years, Jay found his home in Idaho Falls where he has co-anchored with Karole Honas for nearly 30 years. Besides his day to day anchoring and reporting, Jay has been involved in a number of special projects for the newscasts over the years. For 28 years Jay produced weekly Wednesday's Child reports. Each week, a child living in a temporary foster home, who needed an adoptive family was featured. Many viewers were touched by the children's stories, and hundreds of them were adopted due to Wednesday's Child. Hundreds of outstanding high school seniors were also featured by Jay in his weekly Distinguished Student series of reports. Along with his Local News 8 job, Jay keeps busy a couple mornings a week as an adjunct instructor at Brigham Young University Idaho teaching public speaking and broadcast performance classes, which he finds extremely rewarding. During his years in Idaho Falls, Jay has been involved in a number of local community activities. He has served on the Governor's Children's Trust Fund Board, the Region VII Health and Welfare Advisory Board, and the Safe Place Advisory Board. Madam Speaker, Jay Hildebrandt will be missed throughout Eastern Idaho, but his career has provided an incredible template as to how the news ought to be reported.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, Idaho is recognized around the world for producing high-quality wheat. Sixty years ago, Idaho wheat farmers decided to join together and form the Idaho Wheat Commission to develop export markets, conduct research, and educate growers. Much has changed over the past 60 years. In 2018, Idaho was the highest yielding state in the nation with an average of 90 bushels per acre. Idaho ranked fifth among wheat producing states at more than 100 million bushels. Idaho has one of the most consistent harvests of any wheat-growing area. Wet springs and warm, dry summers combined with rich volcanic solids create ideal conditions for our high-quality wheat. Nearly two- thirds of Idaho wheat is grown under irrigation, allowing for Idaho growers to manage the crop to customers' specifications. Idaho is one of few states that grows all five classes of wheat. About half of the 100 million bushels produced each year in Idaho are exported. Idaho is uniquely positioned to access the global marketplace by moving grain through the Columbia-Snake River system to Portland, and then onto foreign customers, particularly Asian markets. The other half of Idaho's wheat production goes to domestic markets via trucks and rail into products we all know and love like Pepperidge Farms Goldfish Crackers, Wheaties and Wheat Chex cereals, pasta, cookies and pastries. This year, the Idaho Wheat Commission is celebrating 60 years of service to wheat growers in Idaho providing growers with market development, research, and education. Let it be known that Idaho wheat is Quality Wheat Simply Grown and let us join Idaho's wheat growers in celebrating 60 years of the Idaho Wheat Commission.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the completion of project critical to the economic development and prosperity of Mountain Home, Idaho: the official transfer of a rail spur from the Mountain Home Air Force Base to the City of Mountain Home. With this transfer, the City of Mountain Home will attract new businesses to the adjoining rail industrial park and increase economic activity in the region. This rail spur transfer represents the extraordinary teamwork that is so often displayed in Southern Idaho. It took the combined efforts of the City of Mountain Home civic leaders, including Mayor Richard Sykes; the Mountain Home Economic Development team; the Special Military Liaison to the Governor of Idaho; Mountain Home Air Force Base personnel; and more to complete the transfer. I also wish to thank the Air Force House Liaison Office, House Armed Service Committee professional staff, and Billy Valderrama and Katherine Myers on my personal staff for facilitating the inclusion of the transfer language in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2018. Congratulations to all parties, and I look forward to following the progress of new economic development in Mountain Home as a result of this rail spur transfer.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I am deeply saddened by the loss of my colleague, Congressman Elijah Cummings. He was a true leader in Congress and had the respect of his colleagues. I feel honored for having the opportunity to work with him as his Co-chair of the Congressional Oral Health Caucus. As a former dentist, I appreciated Congressman Cummings for being an advocate for oral health and advancing many important issues in a bipartisan manner. He will be missed in the halls of Congress and I send my deepest condolences to his family. On behalf of the American Dental Association, I would like to include in the Record the following statement which recognizes Congressman Cummings for his dedication to oral health: The American Dental Association (ADA) would like to offer its sincerest condolences to the colleagues, family, friends and constituents of Representatives Elijah Cummings. Representative Cummings dedicated his life of service to uplifting and empowering the people he was sworn to represent in Congress. Since 1996, Congressman Cummings has proudly represented Maryland's 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, where we have discussed many of the complex challenges of health care in his state. Rep. Cummings understood the significance between oral health and general well-being for overall health. As Co-chair of the Oral Health Caucus, Rep. Cummings was dedicated to increasing awareness of oral health care and to funding emerging dental research. Americans will forever be thankful for his support of initiatives that address oral health equity, including the Action for Dental Health Act. He was a staunch supporter and promoter of oral health as a part of overall health policy. Rep. Cummings knew that greater access to dental care needed to include education and awareness and made it a priority to help initiate Maryland's first statewide oral health literacy campaign. Rep. Cummings often said that ``Our children are the living messages that we send to a future we will never see.'' We admired his dedication to ensuring that our next generations have access to quality health care and education. Congress lost a true advocate for the people today. His willingness to work and fight for those who need him most is the biggest loss to our nation. The ADA will sincerely miss the wisdom and dedication of Congressman Cummings to make real and lasting change with the continued commitment and collaboration of the oral health community. We will remain saddened yet dedicated to help make that lasting change as part of his legacy. Sincerest condolences, Chad P. Gehani, D.D.S., President of the American Dental Association.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2019 Idaho Career & Technical Education (ICTE) Special Program Award recipient, the Construction Combine. At the Construction Combine, program participants learn to demonstrate their construction skills to builders who are potential employers. The program recruits local contractors to teach construction skills to interested high school students and others, and construction materials suppliers such as Home Depot generously provide the necessary supplies and tools to facilitate building sheds for this two-day event. The completed sheds are donated to deserving veterans at no cost. The Construction Combine is the brain-child of Mr. Scott Stevens. As a staff member in Idaho State University's (ISU) Continuing Education and Workforce Training Program (CEWT), Mr. Stevens recognized the need to attract more skilled workers to the construction industry and to increase the housing stock in order to promote economic growth. He teamed up with Brad Landon, the Pocatello/Chubbuck Home Depot Store manager, to execute his vision--one that helps home builders, veterans and students. There was extensive additional support from the surrounding high schools; local contractors; Gary Salazar, the Director of ISU's CEWT; and others in ISU's CEWT Program. The first Construction Combine event took place at the Pocatello/ Chubbuck Home Depot in the Spring of 2018 with 54 participants, producing eight sheds. The following year, in 2019, the Construction Combine hosted six events in Idaho and Oregon with 228 participants, producing 41 sheds. I am eager to see the continued growth of this program in years to come. Madam Speaker, I would like to join the ICTE Awards Selection Committee in recognizing the Construction Combine as an innovative solution to the construction and low housing stock issues associated with Idaho's very low unemployment rate and our booming economy. I would like to recognize ISU's CEWT, the Home Depot, and the local contractors for their efforts to make the Construction Combine a success and to give back to their communities. Congratulations.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today with great respect and gratitude for the 480 men and women of the Advanced Mixed Waste Treatment Project (AMWTP) as they complete the facility's waste treatment mission for the State of Idaho and the country. The State of Idaho didn't generate the waste treated at AMWTP, but the citizens of Idaho along with the entire nation benefitted from our nation's unrelenting drive to keep the peace through our strength. In many ways, the waste that the AMWTP team retrieved, characterized, treated, certified, and shipped out of the state was the byproduct of our freedom. It was the legacy of the Cold War. Through their hard work, dedication, and sacrifices, they helped close the chapter on this part of the Cold War. In addition to the AMWTP employees, we owe Idaho governors Cecil Andrus, John Evans, Dirk Kempthorne, Jim Risch, Phil Batt, C.L. ``Butch'' Otter, and Brad Little a great thanks for their insistence that this waste would not remain in Idaho in perpetuity over our precious Snake River Plain Aquifer. Our aquifer, our citizens, and our nation are safer with this waste safely disposed of at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. We also owe the Department of Energy (DOE) a heartfelt thank you for committing to this project in the mid-1990s and staying with it until the end. It wasn't easy; it wasn't without contention or disagreements, but all sides worked together for a common goal of success. The contractors that have been associated with the AMWTP also must be recognized, from BNFL Inc., to Bechtel BWXT, to the Idaho Treatment Group, to the current contractor; Fluor Idaho. The amount of ingenuity, engineering, and technology at this waste treatment facility is unmatched anywhere else in the world. AMWTP, backed by the DOE and its contractors and committed management and employees, had the brawn and brains to complete its transuranic debris waste treatment mission. But none of this would have been possible without the men and women of the AMWTP. Each and every one of them made sacrifices to support this mission. They sacrificed quality time with family members to commute to the facility in the early hours of the morning, often leaving at night--never seeing the light of day. They knew they were effectively working themselves out of a job, just as all employees of the Idaho Cleanup Project are doing. The employees of the AMWTP should be the models for the entire workforce of the DOE Complex. When they encountered challenging waste types and containers, they developed the procedures and processes to safely and compliantly address them. When the specialized equipment didn't exist, they fabricated it, tested it, and put it to work. They adapted and found solutions to the most complex challenges they encountered. Several more years will be needed to ship out the balance of the 65,000 cubic meters of waste to WIPP. For those who stay with the project, the Idaho Congressional Delegation wishes them the best of luck in safely carrying out the remainder of the shipping mission. For those who retire, take other jobs in Idaho, or leave to pursue opportunities elsewhere, we wish them the best of luck and again sincerely say thank you. AMWTP and the impact of its workforce to the State of Idaho and the nation will be remembered for generations to come.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the continuing resolution before us today. I think we can all agree that continuing resolutions aren't the ideal solution to funding our government. In fact, most of the people on the Appropriations Committee hate continuing resolutions. Ideally, all of our 12 appropriations bills would be enacted by October 1. Last year, we were able to complete several bills on time, including the energy and water bill. But sometimes we need more time to complete our negotiations. Considering that a budget deal was not enacted before last month, there simply isn't enough time to complete work on these bills before the new fiscal year. So while continuing resolutions aren't ideal, supporting a short-term CR to keep our government functioning is the only responsible vote today--I will say that again. It is the only responsible vote today, for our national security, for our economy, and for the general welfare of the American people. For instance, this bill will ensure the Department of Energy can maintain our nuclear weapons stockpile and the Corps of Engineers can dredge our ports and waterways so goods and materials can move freely. I also appreciate that this bill recognizes our farmers. Agriculture faces uncertain times and the temporary relief provisions, while not a solution, do help. I would also like to applaud the inclusion of a provision related to the specialty crop initiative. This program is vital to the success of potato farmers in Idaho. We must avoid disruptions to these vital activities by passing this continuing resolution before us today and then working towards completing our work on the final appropriations bills, as the majority leader said, by November 21. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this continuing resolution.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jane Wittmeyer for her incredible service she has given to the great state of Idaho as she retires from Wittmeyer and Associates. One of the greatest aspects of being a public servant is meeting people like Jane. Over the years, my staff and I have relied on Jane for her guidance and expertise in several areas, particularly related to our forests, natural resources and agriculture. Jane can bring people together by building coalitions to solve issues by finding creative solutions with minimal impact. This is a skillset that few people possess, and our society certainly needs more problem-solvers like Jane. Jane's resume is also extremely impressive, from her exceptional academic education receiving her MBA in International Business and PhD in Public Administration, to her incredible work ethic running her own company, to her athletic achievements in cross country and Tae Kwon Do. Simply put, there is very little that Jane can't and hasn't accomplished. There is a personal side to Jane as well. Whenever you see her, she greets you with a warm smile, asks about your work and family and is happy to share stories of her own children and husband. She is a dedicated mother, wife and a fiercely loyal friend. I consider Jane a good friend, so it is hard to imagine Idaho Agriculture Industry without her at the table. Congratulations Jane, enjoy retirement.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, on July 15, 2019, I was absent and unable to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on Roll Call No. 475; ``yea'' on Roll Call No. 476; and ``yea'' on Roll Call No. 477.

Mr. SIMPSON

Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my appreciation and commendation to Shane Johnson who will be leaving the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy after thirty years of service and success. When you have the honor of representing Idaho's Second Congressional District and the Idaho National Laboratory, you learn a lot about nuclear energy and the important role the federal government plays researching, developing and deploying this amazing technology. Another part of that education is collaborating with the people at the Department of Energy who oversee the labs and these programs. It is in that capacity that I was able to see Shane Johnson lead the Office of Nuclear Energy on multiple occasions with extreme professionalism and vision. If you go back and look at the major programs and accomplishments of the DOE Office of Nuclear Energy, you will see Shane Johnson's fingerprints all over the place. When DOE helped industry get two advanced light water reactor designs licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Shane was there; when DOE worked with industry to get the first small modular reactors ready for deployment, in Idaho, Shane was there; when the Office of Nuclear Energy set up a robust university program to educate and graduate the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers, Shane was there; when the Office of Nuclear Energy made its labs and facilities available to industry and universities to support technology development, Shane was there; and, when the Office of Nuclear Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission began working together to use lab developed codes to enhance reactor safety and security, Shane was there again. At the end of the day, when you look at Shane's career and you see significant impacts and lasting contributions. A ``thank you,'' and a ``job well done is deserved.'' While Shane's accomplishments are real and impactful, his leadership of the Office of Nuclear Energy and his stewardship of the Idaho National Laboratory deserve special recognition. As administrations and initiatives come and go, it is the enduring leadership of the federal staff that keep our government operating. In his career at the Office of Nuclear Energy, incoming administrations have asked Shane to lead the office and the staff to keep our fundamental goals and objectives in sight. Shane excelled in this role and when he came before my Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, you could see the confidence and pride his colleagues had in his leadership. As he leaves federal service, I want to thank Shane for his outstanding contribution at the Office of Nuclear Energy and wish him and his wife, Susan, all the best in the future. His service will benefit generations of Americans to come.